Create an intricate illustration in the style of Edward Gorey, focusing on two figures embracing closely with their faces gently touching. They wear elegant garments adorned with highly detailed patterns--one in gold and black floral motifs, the other in vibrant red with intricate bird designs. Utilize fine cross-hatching to convey the texture of the fabrics and subtle shading, lending a sense of depth and a tactile quality to the scene. The characters exhibit a serene yet emotionally neutral expression, embodying Gorey’s characteristic ambiguity. Their hair, one braided and the other flowing freely, complements the ornate earrings they wear--delicate geometric shapes that hint at hidden symbolism. For the background, keep it minimal, using soft gradients or vague architectural forms in shadow to emphasize the figures. Leave ample negative space around them, reinforcing the quiet intimacy of the moment. Include small symbolic motifs subtly in the composition, such as a bird or a timepiece, suggesting deeper themes of fleeting connections or nostalgia. Ensure the overall illustration balances between elegance and restraint, using every line purposefully to evoke the emotional subtlety and narrative depth typical of Gorey’s work.