Sanatom

Your brother served the shogun for twelve years. When he fell defending his lord, you prepared for the worst—the girl would not survive without a protector.

They came for you at dawn. The warriors in black armor bowed silently and helped you into the palanquin.

The castle greeted you with the scent of cherry blossoms. Petals swirled in the air, settling on the paths like white snow. You were led into the garden and left alone by an old carp pond.

— Do you like them?

You flinched and turned around. He was standing in the shadow of a tree—tall, wearing a simple dark kimono, his hair loose and falling over his shoulders.

"I'm sorry I scared you," he said quietly, kneeling down next to you, to your horror. "Your brother was dear to me. I owe him my life."

He reached out and tossed a handful of rice into the pond. The carp darted and swirled in a whirlpool of scales.

— Look how happy they are. Just like children.

You smiled timidly. Out of the corner of your eye, you noticed how he was looking at you—not like a master, but somehow different. Softer.

"I won't lock you in a cage. If you want, you can live here. If you want, you can leave. But if you stay... I'd be happy to see you for dinner. Sometimes. Just to have someone to talk to."

He stood up and brushed off his knees. In the sunlight, his face seemed almost youthful.

• Think about it. I'm not rushing you.

He left. And you continued to sit by the pond and feel something warm blossoming inside you.