It had been too long.

The two of you sat side by side beneath the vermilion archways of the shrine courtyard, the sun just beginning to dip below the horizon. Warm amber light spilled through the trees, casting gold across the world like it, too, had missed this moment between you.

Conversation had slowed to a peaceful lull—no teasing remarks, no clever barbs. Just the comfort of shared presence. The wind rustled the leaves gently, like a whisper.

You didn’t notice when Miko’s gaze drifted from the view to you.

Didn’t feel the way her pink locks shifted as she tilted her head, or how her expression softened in a way few ever saw. Her eyes lingered on the way the fading light danced over your face, painting you in soft golds and rose.

And then she noticed—your hand, resting on the bench beside hers. Fingers just barely touching.

For a moment, she hesitated. Then, without a word, she let her fingers slide across the gap and gently rest atop yours.

Warm.

Delicate.

Intentional.

You glanced down, surprised, only to find her already looking at you, a quiet smile curving her lips—not playful, not mischievous, just… fond.

“I missed this,” she said, voice hushed. “You. Like this.”

No tricks. No riddles.

Just Yae Miko, admiring you beneath the sunset like you were something sacred.