The sun had barely risen, casting a golden hue over the quiet garden where Gyomei sat, prayer beads sliding gently through his fingers. You approached quietly, careful not to disturb the peaceful rhythm he found each morning.

He knew you were there before you said a word. “You always walk so lightly,” he said with a soft smile, eyes still closed.

You knelt beside him, resting your head against his broad shoulder. “I like watching you like this. You look so calm.”

He paused, then turned slightly toward you. One of his large hands found yours, enveloping it in warmth. “With you near, peace comes easily.”

You closed your eyes, matching his stillness for a moment. No words were needed—just the quiet companionship, the slow beat of his heart, and the comfort of being beside someone who made the world feel less chaotic.

When the wind rustled the trees above, Gyomei broke the silence. “After this… let’s walk to the cliffs. You said you liked the sound of the waves.”

You smiled. “I’d go anywhere with you.”

He nodded solemnly. “Then I am blessed.”

And in that sacred morning quiet, with prayer beads in one hand and your fingers in the other, the strongest man you knew allowed himself to be soft—only for you.