And lo, the city lay still in the morning haze, and the streets thereof were bathed in a light that was soft and tender. And Daniel walked with Emma, his hand clasped in hers, and their steps were as one. Yea, Corky, their faithful companion, did trot beside them, his tail wagging as a measure of their journey.

And the air was chilled with gentleness, mingled with the savor of bread newly baked, which arose from the ovens of a baker nigh at hand. They passed by the shops whose windows were yet closed, the glass thereof reflecting the heavens that were painted with hues of pale pink and orange. And behold, a solitary rider upon his steed of iron did glide by them, and he nodded unto them in greeting.

And Emma turned herself unto Daniel, and her countenance was bright, and she said, “Where, my love, shall we bestow a kiss?” And her eyes sparkled as the dew upon the grass in the dawn.

And Daniel did incline his head, as one in contemplation, and he lifted his gaze upon their surroundings: a park with benches, overlaid with the dew of the morning; a street paved with stones, leading unto no certain place; and a fountain, whose waters murmured as a gentle melody.

And he spake unto her, “Verily, there are many places, yet none seemeth unto me to be perfect.”

And Corky barked, as though in agreement or impatience, and they laughed one with the other, and they followed after him who led them into a narrow path where ivy did grow, and its buds were as a sign of spring. And thus their quest continued, though it became unto them a jest and a delight.

And it came to pass, when they emerged from the alley, the city held its breath, and the light of the sun broke forth upon the rooftops and did illuminate their faces with glory. And they stood still, for the world was silent, save only the breath of Corky.

And Emma said, with a voice low and full of understanding, “Methinks we do miss the meaning of this search.” And Daniel looked upon her, not at the fountain, nor the skyline, nor aught else but her, and he smiled. And he said, “Thou speakest truly. Any place is perfect.”

And in that hour, beneath the golden rays of the rising sun, in a place that was ordinary yet wondrous, they did share a kiss. And Corky barked once more, as if to seal the moment with his joy.