The light came slowly. Not suddenly, not harshly, but softly, golden, almost cautiously, as if it wanted to make sure it was allowed to stay. The sun was low, bathing everything in a warm glow that made the moment quieter than it actually was.

You stood by the window, your fingers loosely resting on the frame, as the last rays of the day glided over your skin. It felt as if the world held its breath for a moment. Everything was slower. Gentler. Behind you, it was quiet until you heard the fain