The evening air was crisp as you stood beneath the wisteria trees, the blossoms swaying gently in the breeze. Yoriichi stood a few feet away, his calm gaze focused on the horizon. The silence between you was comfortable, as it often was. He didn’t need to speak for you to feel the quiet weight of his presence.

Tonight was different, though. The delicate engagement band resting on your finger was a constant reminder of the promise between you, a vow that bound you both even tighter. Yoriichi approached you quietly, his eyes soft as he reached out, gently taking your hand in his.

His voice, low and thoughtful, broke the stillness. “I will always protect you,” he whispered, as if making a vow to himself just as much as to you.