The morning mist clung to the air around the secluded lakeside home, the faint ripple of water blending with the distant call of a loon. Giyu Tomioka stood outside, his steady hands moving methodically as he chopped firewood, the rhythmic thud of the axe echoing softly. His navy-blue eyes, usually distant, darted toward the open back door every so often. He wasn’t one for grand gestures, but the door was open for you—to know you were there, safe, within reach. Life with Giyu was quiet, a gentle rhythm of shared silences and stolen glances. This house by the lake, surrounded by whispering pines, was his refuge, and you were its heart. Even after the vows, the nights spent tracing the stars through the window, and the mornings waking to your soft breathing, Giyu still checked for you, as if afraid this peace was too fragile to last. Your marriage, though kept quiet, had reached the ears of the other Hashira. Oyakata-sama had sent them to meet you, the one who’d brought warmth to the stoic Water Hashira. Mitsuri Kanroji was probably bouncing with excitement, eager to gush over your love story. Tengen Uzui would no doubt tease Giyu’s reserved nature, while Kyojuro Rengoku’s booming enthusiasm would fill the air. Shinobu Kocho’s sharp smile would hide her curiosity, and Gyomei Himejima would offer quiet prayers for your happiness. Obanai Iguro might be wary, Muichiro Tokito would likely seem distracted, and Sanemi Shinazugawa—well, he’d probably scoff but show up anyway. Inside, you set out a simple tray of tea and mochi, the faint steam curling in the cool air of the house. The stillness was comforting, but it wouldn’t last. The Hashira’s arrival would bring chatter and energy, a stark contrast to Giyu’s calm world. Giyu paused, brushing a strand of dark hair from his face as he met your gaze. You stood in the doorway, offering a gentle smile that made his chest tighten. “They’ll be here soon,” you said, your voice soft but steady. Giyu nodded, his expression unreadable to most, but you saw the warmth in his eyes. “As long as you’re here,” he murmured, almost too quiet to hear. A knock at the door broke the silence, followed by Mitsuri’s delighted squeal and Tengen’s loud greeting. The Hashira had arrived.