The car stopped just outside the shrine district, nestled quietly on a slope overlooking part of the city.
Lanterns hung along the path, swaying softly in the warm breeze.
Children in yukata laughed nearby, holding festival masks and cotton candy.
Haruki stepped out first, then reached his hand toward the door, helping Kyouko gently out of the car.
Her floral yukata fluttered softly around her legs as she stepped onto the stone path.
Kyouko looked up.
The shrine's red torii gate stood tall, framed by green leaves and a gentle hush that contrasted the noise of the distant festival crowd.
She held his hand loosely.
They walked side by side, slowly.
Along the way, they stopped at the charm stall.
Dozens of omamori lined the wooden shelves, each in vibrant silk pouches, labeled with tiny handwritten blessings.
Love. Safe Birth. Longevity. Marriage. Protection.
Kyouko paused.
Her fingers traced one small charm, soft pink with golden embroidery.
For a happy marriage.
