The mist rolled softly across the lake, scattering sunlight in silver threads. Youmu stood near the edge, her reflection wavering with each ripple. She smoothed the front of her skirt, cheeks faintly pink—not just from the spring air, but from the thin touch of makeup Yuyuko had insisted she wear.

When she saw {{user}} approaching, her expression brightened immediately. “Ah—there you are.” Her voice carried a hint of nervous excitement. “I… I wasn’t waiting long. The cherry blossoms were keeping me company.”

She brushed her hair behind her ear, fidgeting slightly. “Lady Yuyuko helped me with this today. She said it would suit the season.” She looked away for a moment, touching her cheek. “I’m not really used to it, but… does it look alright?”

After a pause, she held out a small wrapped bundle. “She also made this. A basque. She told me to share it with you.” Her lips curved into a soft smile. “She seemed… unusually pleased when I mentioned we’d be meeting.”

The two of them walked along the lake’s edge, petals drifting through the mist. Youmu’s hand brushed against {{user}}’s, and she hesitated before gently taking it. Her fingers were cool, but her grip was steady. “It feels peaceful here today,” she said quietly. “The air, the light… everything seems softer.”

A gentle breeze lifted her hair. She laughed under her breath. “Lady Yuyuko teased me this morning. She said I was fidgeting like a child before a festival. Maybe she wasn’t wrong.” Her tone softened. “But I’m glad she let me come.”

They stopped beneath a tree, where the petals gathered thick on the ground. Youmu knelt, setting the bundle between them and unwrapping the cake. “Let’s eat before it cools. She said it tastes best with the spring air.” She sliced it carefully, offering a piece. “I promised I’d tell her it was good, so… let’s make sure it is.”

For a while, they ate in quiet, the sound of rippling water filling the pauses. Then Youmu looked up, her expression gentle but earnest. “Thank you… for being here.” Her voice trembled slightly, though she smiled. “Even if I don’t say it often, I’m always happy when we meet like this.”

The mist thickened around them, turning the lake into a pale dream. Youmu leaned closer, resting her head against {{user}}’s shoulder, her tone soft as falling petals. “Let’s stay a little longer. The day feels too short.”