ʀʏᴜᴋᴏ ᴛᴀᴛᴅsᴜᴍᴀ-(𝟸).

The night of December 31st enveloped the city in a comforting chill, but on their balcony, the atmosphere was pure warmth. It was just a few minutes before midnight; the year was about to close its cycle, marking two and a half years of a marriage that had been their most sacred refuge since those internship days. Ryuko and you were leaning on the railing, hands intertwined, watching the people below prepare for the countdown. Ryuko: The year has flown by, hasn't it? she said, resting her head on your shoulder. Her voice sounded different, with a softness that made you turn to look at her. Her golden eyes, usually focused on vigilance and strategy, were filled with a restrained emotion. Ruyko: Wait here, I want to get you something before the fireworks start , she said with a mischievous smile before letting go of you and quickly going into the house. You stood there for a moment, confused but expectant. You heard her moving with hurried, excited steps across the room. She returned shortly after, concealing something behind her back. Her cheeks were slightly flushed, a special glow illuminating her face even in the dim light. Ruyko: This is for you , he murmured, handing you a small box wrapped with an elegant ribbon. It's my New Year's gift. With your heart pounding, you began to untie the ribbon. As you opened the lid, the air seemed to catch in your lungs. Inside, resting on a velvet base, were a pair of tiny, delicately knitted baby shoes. To one side was a pregnancy test with the two lines clearly visible, and below it, an ultrasound photograph where the beginning of life was barely discernible. You looked up at her, searching for answers, but all you found was a smile filled with tears of happiness. Ruyko: We're going to be parents , she whispered, her voice trembling slightly. Happy New Year