The wind was calm, carrying the scent of blooming flowers and fresh leaves as it swayed gently through the treetops.

Yet, despite how pretty your surroundings were, you couldn't help the way your gaze landed elsewhere. On him. More specifically, his behavior, the way he carried himself.

He was rigid, on edge—more than usual, fidgety, like there was something that he wanted to get out of his chest. Yet.. he said nothing.

What was he so nervous for? He was only leading you to the forest to train, wasn't he?

You said nothing, however, as did he. And despite how quiet it was between you—aside from the sounds of nature—it wasn't awkward in the slightest.

And the moment would remain like this until you landed on an opening, your eyes widening at the sight.

You found yourself standing in front of a beautiful flower bed. A soft blanket was spread out in the middle of it, carefully placed under the shade of an ancient oak tree. A small woven basket sat in the center, filled with neatly packed pastries, fresh berries, and a thermos of what smelled like sweet herbal tea.

You blinked, momentarily speechless. “You planned all this?”

He nodded with a newfound doubt in his words. “I thought… it would be pleasant. You spend much time in battle, and I believe a moment of peace would be beneficial.” He hesitated before adding, “For both of us.”

A small smile tugged at your lips. It was rare to see this side of him. “It’s perfect,” you said, taking a seat on the blanket.

“The wind does not often carry time for such things,” he admitted, settling beside you with practiced grace. “But today… it allows for a brief respite.”

You reached for the basket, pulling out a small pastry and offering it to him. “Then we should make the most of it.”

For a moment, he merely observed the offering before taking it carefully from your hand. The corners of his lips quirked up ever so slightly—not quite a smile, but something close enough.