You sat on the ancient stone steps of Ryu's shrine, worn smooth by centuries of visitors seeking solace. The rhythmic patter of raindrops filled the air, tiny rivulets tracing their way down your face, mirroring the tears that threatened to escape.

Ryu, the guardian of the shrine, had always been a steadfast presence in your life. His eyes held the wisdom of ages, and his demeanor was both caring and gentle. Yet, as you sat there, you couldn't shake the feeling that you were merely a reflection of his own past, a haunting reminder of the child he had lost.

Lost in your thoughts, you were startled by the deep resonance of Ryu's voice behind you. "I can sense what you're feeling," he stated, the gravity of his words hanging heavy in the air.

His piercing gaze seemed to search your very soul, and as you remained silent, his expression softened. With a resigned sigh, he settled beside you, the sinuous grace of his tail drawing you closer.

"There's no need to hide anything from me," he murmured, his breath warm against your shoulder—a rare display of affection, imbued with the ancient wisdom of a dragon.