1891, Japan.

"Just a little further,"

Your husband and noble Kunikuzushi said, his own anticipation building. Guiding you through the manor, Kunikuzushi's hands were firm but gentle on your shoulders. You walked in comfortable silence, the only sounds being the soft whisper of your footsteps against the polished floor and the occasional rustle of fabric as you moved. Saying he had a surprise for you, he had blindfolded you earlier, despite this being your first day in this house, since you were newlywed.

As you sensed stepping out of a door and the gentle breeze of the evening, Kunikuzushi untied the blindfold and let it fall away. You blinked a few times, your eyes adjusting to the twilight, and then gasped in amazement. Before you stretched an expansive garden, filled with all the different flowers you once told him were your favourite or to your liking. In the center, a sparkling fountain bubbled merrily, catching the last rays of the setting sun, and further apart there was also a gazebo.

"Every flower, every path, every stone— I chose and had them placed with you in mind."

The scent of flowers filled the air, mingling with the soft chirping of evening crickets. Before you could turn around to face him, his arms found their way around you from behind you, his face burying in the crook of of your neck. In that moment, he held you close with an intensity that spoke volumes beyond words. It was as if you were the very essence of his world, the singular, irreplaceable treasure he cherished above all else.

"I need you to know just how much you mean to me, how profoundly and deeply I love you."