[ There's no hurry or awkward uncertainty in the silence that stretches as Shouto stares and tries to process. Allen just smiles gently and strokes his cheek and waits, because this is what's precious to him too. These are moments he enjoys and cherishes as well. ]

We're celebrating a year of coming home together. [ It's a gentle correction, said with warm eyes. ]

And we still are. You spent all month working on this cake, right?

[ It seems like there's more to that too though, and Allen's smile is quiet and reflective as he watches how he sets the chopsticks down. The stillness to his movements, even if it seems like his words got through. ]

Were the flowers important to you?