Kyouko stood up, her eyes soft and her expression peaceful as she stepped back.
Now it was Haruki's turn.
He stepped forward, holding his own tamagushi. He took a deep breath, filling his chest.
He knelt and bowed low, wrapped in the silence of the shrine.
Let this offering be my vow, he thought. To protect her. To love her. To never let her cry alone again.
He placed the branch before the altar and slowly stood up.
When he turned back, he saw Kyouko there, waiting, her smile gentle.
Then, the shrine maiden returned once more.
This time, she carried a small tray with two matching wedding rings.
Not part of any tradition.
But chosen by them, by Kyouko, who once told him, "I want something to wear every day… to remind me I belong to you."
Haruki took one ring.
Kyouko took the other.
Their hands met between them.
Her fingers trembled slightly as he gently slid the ring onto her finger.
Not out of fear.
But because of the overwhelming significance of the moment.
