The water rippled softly, mirroring the sky in shades of silver and blue. She dipped her fingers into the stream, watching the circles expand and fade. Time felt suspended, like the world had paused to let her feel everything more deeply. A bird called from the trees, and she smiled without opening her eyes. Somewhere nearby, he watched her, not wanting to disturb the serenity she wore like a second skin. He knew this was her sanctuary, and in silence, he joined her — not with words, but with presence. He sat beside her, close enough to feel her warmth, far enough to honor her solitude. They breathed together, slowly, like waves meeting the shore.