Haruto and Ayaka's relationship had grown slowly but steadily. What began as quiet dinners and small gestures of gratitude had blossomed into something deeper. Their dates were simple but meaningful — a walk under cherry blossoms, sharing meals at local cafés, studying new scientific papers together and discussing ideas late into the evening.
Every moment spent with Ayaka felt different from his past with Emi. With her, the warmth was gentle and steady, like sunlight filtering through the clouds. He could laugh freely, feel supported, and share his thoughts without fear of judgment. Around Ayaka, the bitterness of the past seemed to fade just a little more each day.
After two months of dating, Haruto found himself sitting across from Ayaka in the quiet corner of a small, cozy restaurant. His heart raced as he reached for her hand. "Ayaka… these past two months… being with you… it's changed a lot for me. I… I want us to be together — always."
Ayaka's eyes glimmered, and she smiled softly. "Haruto… I've been waiting to hear you say that. I promise, I'll be with you through everything — no matter what."
That night, under the soft glow of lanterns lining the streets, they decided to take the next step: engagement. Simple rings exchanged, hands held tightly, hearts beating in sync. The past, with all its pain and betrayal, was behind them. The future was theirs to build together.
Meanwhile, Emi remained unaware of the new chapter in Haruto's life. She continued her reflections at her parents' home, planning to visit him in a few months. Her heart carried hope — the hope that perhaps she could finally see him, speak to him, maybe even reconcile.
Little did she know that Haruto had already moved on, engaged to Ayaka, and fully embracing a life filled with warmth, trust, and love.
The paths of the past and the present had diverged, and only time would reveal whether Emi's lingering hope would meet reality — or heartbreak once again.