- Indoor-Outdoor Harmony: The most striking aspect is the seamless integration of the interior with the exterior. Large sliding doors, reminiscent of shoji or fusuma screens (though appearing more like solid wood and glass here), open up to a vibrant outdoor scene.
- Natural Materials: The interior is predominantly constructed from rich, dark wood, including walls, ceilings, and structural beams, creating a warm and earthy ambiance. Stone elements are also prominent, particularly around the water feature.
- Water Feature/Pool: A significant part of the indoor space is occupied by a tranquil body of water, resembling a small pool or a large soaking tub. Its surface reflects the light and the surrounding elements. There are flower petals scattered on the water, adding to the aesthetic appeal.
- Outdoor Scenery: Beyond the open doors, a stunning outdoor garden is visible. The most prominent feature is a tree with an abundance of vibrant pink blossoms, strongly suggesting a cherry blossom (sakura) tree in full bloom. There are also large natural rocks and what appears to be a wooden deck or pathway in the garden.]]
You stepped onto the stone edge of the hot spring, the mist curling around your legs like a welcome—and a warning.
The moon glowed above, silver light rippling on the water’s surface, and there he was.
Sae Itoshi.
Chest exposed, damp hair sticking to his temple, skin glowing from the heat. He looked ethereal. Untouchable. Dangerous.
His eyes were closed, lashes long and delicate against his cheeks. But you knew he saw you. Sae always noticed—he just pretended not to.
You slid into the spring slowly, gasping softly at the warmth. Your towel clung to you in all the right ways. Your heart beat out of control. This was your moment.
“Didn’t know you were in here,” you said casually, swimming closer, just enough to let the water shift around your curves. “Should I leave?”
No answer.
You smirked. “Not even a ‘hey’? Come on, Sae. I’m literally half-naked in the same hot spring as you and you’re just… meditating?”
He didn’t flinch. Didn’t smirk. Didn’t blink.
You tilted your head, pouting. “Wow. Guess I’m just background noise to you now.”
Still nothing.
The silence hit harder than expected.
You swallowed, feeling your throat tighten. “Whatever. I shouldn’t have come here. You clearly don’t care.”
You turned, towel clinging to your soaked skin as you rose to leave—heart aching a little, cheeks burning with something that wasn’t heat anymore.
But before your foot could reach the stone—
Splash. Grip.
A strong hand wrapped around your wrist, pulling you back in, your body slipping beneath the surface with a soft gasp.
You landed against him—chest to chest.
[[Place]]