The sun was beginning to set, casting long shadows over the Kamisato Estate as you quietly made your way through the familiar halls. You’d planned this moment carefully, wanting to surprise Ayato after his intense training session. He’d been pushing himself lately, and you knew that he needed a break, even if he wouldn’t admit it.

You arrived at his room and, with a smile, pushed open the door just enough to slip inside. The room was neat, as always, with a few familiar personal touches scattered about. You noticed his practice uniform neatly folded on the bed, a sign that he had just returned from training. You could hear the faint sounds of his footsteps approaching from down the hall.

You quickly went to work, adjusting a few things around the room—setting a small tray with tea and some of his favorite sweets on the table. You even placed a freshly prepared robe on the chair nearby, making sure everything was perfect. It was a small gesture, but you hoped it would help him unwind after the long hours he had spent on his duties.

As you finished, you heard the door open and Ayato stepped in, his movements slow and deliberate. He looked tired, his usually immaculate hair slightly disheveled from his training. His eyes flickered over the room, and then they landed on you. His expression softened, and for a moment, it seemed like the weight of the world lifted off his shoulders.

—“Waiting for me, were you?” he said, his voice quiet but tinged with a hint of surprise and warmth.

You smiled, feeling a slight warmth spread through your chest at his reaction.

—“Just wanted to surprise you,” you said, gesturing toward the small setup you’d prepared. “Thought you could use a break.”

Ayato let out a soft sigh, his eyes flickering between the tea and the sweets, then back to you.

—“I didn’t expect this,” he admitted, stepping toward you with slow, careful movements. “But... I think I’ve been needing it more than I realized.”