It had been a week since Misato and Shinji had found their new home. Both of them were completely settled in their new apartment new neighbors. Misato and Shinji both agreed to continue their daily activity. Shinji continued his work at the store, now working more hours. And Misato still went to her parenting classes, much to the dismay of herself.

Through her nagging and complaining, she knew deep down she needed this class. Misato was not as excited and eccentric as the new mothers in the class, she still had felt like social outcast even in this class. And just hours of more hard lessons of mother hood was enough to beg her to leave.

In the meantime, Shinji had taken over multiple hours of his work schedule, due to an employee quitting. Most of hours were spent at the counter, others were assisting the truck loaders and even a set amount of hours. Shinji's hours had now turned from morning until night. So when he got home it would usually end with him passing out or cuddling Misato.

As the truckers took a cigarette break, Shinji grabbed an iced coffee from the vending machine. It served as the perfect beverage cool him off throughout the hot summer sun. As he continued to walk, he caught glace at poster of a very familiar face. Surprising enough, Shigeru Aoba, a former Nerv Technician, had formed his own band called the Death Angels, and had been touring the last few years. Never did Shinji imagine someone as laid back as Shigeru would actually accomplish something. But he supposed that it was too late to say congratulations face-to face. But at least he was able to make it through these rough times, and that was enough to put a smile on his face.

As Shinji set off for another iced coffee, he bumped into someone coming from the side. As Shinji stood on his feet, he offered the individual a hand off the ground. "I'm so sorry about that. I was not paying attention."

"It's quite alright, don't worry about it." She said accepting Shinji's generous hand. Shinji eyes widen when he heard the women's very familiar voice. As their eyes caught each other, Shinji quickly recognized the women. Shinji had bumped into the awfully cheerful and optimistic, Maya Ibuki. Even with her new glasses, Shinji still had known her face.

"Shinji Ikari, is that you?" She inquired.

"Hello Maya, it's been a while, hasn't it?" Shinji answered with smile.

Through their unexpected encounter, Shinji and Maya Ibuki sat down for a snack break. The two of them had started to reminisce on old times through laughs and groans. And it seemed that Maya had also been doing surprisingly well on her own after Nerv's fall down. She had now gotten a job working as an accountant for business firm for large company, great pay, plus vacation and medical leave. She was even engaged to someone as Shinji noticed the ring on her finger. It seemed like she was set. Whether leaving Nerv was a relief or regret had clouded Shinji's mind. But he was glad to see she was a happy with her life. It was ever women's dream live a happy life with a happy family. And neither women wanted to spend the rest of their life alone, not even Misato.

As he twirled his straw, Shinji was indeed envious of her new life. Ibuki was not perfect, but she was still human, so not too much trauma in her life. Like Ritsuko, she was not too surprised having heard about his relationship with Misato since Misato was known to be valuable. By her joyful smile, Shinji had no doubt that she would live a happy life. Although it would be tough, it would take some time just like him and Misato.

"You're a lot more grown then the last time I've seen you." Maya said admiring Shinji's growth.

Shinji blushed rubbing the back of his head. "You really think so? I just had a complete makeover of my original self."

Ibuki laughed. "Oh don't be so bashful, you've just grown up over the years."

As the conversation went on, Shinji could not take his eyes off Ibuki's ring finger. Even after claiming she was engaged, it only made him envious even more. Him and Misato's relationship had gone far, and was even expecting a child, but not once did they ever tie the knot to their relationship. Shinji loved Misato with all his heart, but he did not know why he was so hesitate. Still, spending time with Ibuki he knew he had to eventually step up.

Shinji decided to ask. "Ibuki, how did it feel when you were proposed to?"

Ibuki started to blush. "The same as any women was when a guy wants their hand in marriage Shinji. It just means that they want that partner in their life more and more." Ibuki covered Shinji's hands with her own. "If you love someone that much, then you have to show it to them by proposing. And once that vow is set, that couple will live a nice happy life, off course not many marriages succeed. But I'm sure your partner will be speechless once you propose, trust me."

"Thanks Ibuki. I'll keep that in mind."

"Well just don't stray away from your partner too much, if know what I mean." Ibuki gave a wink. Before she could say another word, she answered her phone. It was her lover as Ibuki started talking very happily and sweetly on the phone. Through many smiles and blushes, she was more than happy that he had called. The more she talked, the more Shinji admired her.

"I see you later, I love you too dear." Ibuki said hanging up her phone. "Sorry Shinji but duty calls; please tell Misato I said hi. Take care of yourself, alright."

After his load was finished, Shinji thought about what Ibuki had said. For the last half hour, he drove on the road with a coworker. He glanced at many happy married couples and jewelry shops. The way Ibuki loved her new lover made him think of how much he loved Misato. They have almost been going out for a few years and yet he has not stepped up his relationship. From guardian to lover, the two of them were an official couple.

He thought about the sweet love and affection he had given to her over the years. He even took account the times he was there for her in her time of grief. So much that Misato had done in past for Shinji, he wanted to do much more for her now. Not to mention, they were going to have child sooner or later which was already going to be tough.

"See you tomorrow Shinji." The coworker said taking his leave as Shinji waved back.

As he unlocked the apartment door, Shinji called out with typical "I'm home" speech to Misato. But surprisingly, there was no answer. When he ventured into the kitchen, he found Misato already collapsed on the table. His first thought was Misato being drunk off her feet again, but then discovered a cake and drink. But the cake was burnt from its side and not perfected well. Shinji had slapped his forehead realizing that it was his birthday today. And he even felt lower that Misato had went through all that trouble for him. As he rubbed her tender back, Misato took a loud yawn and just said, "You're late."

"I figured as much. I'm sorry I did not come home in time, my shift ran really late and I also ran into Maya Ibuki on my work shift. She's doing really well." Shinji replied.

Rubbing her eyelids, Misato sat up. "Is that so? I'm glad to hear it." Misato presented Shinji's cake. "I know it's a bit late for this, but Happy Birthday Shinji. Sorry if it's not the best cake I've ever done."

Shinji shook his head. "I've see far worst. Every day with you is always special."

Flattered, Misato smiled back at Shinji. "By the way Misato, I was thinking."

Misato groaned. "Please no more living arrangements or lectures."

"What. No, that's not it at all." Shinji pulled out small box from his pocket. He opened it to present a ring. Shinji's mouth begin to dry, so he cleared his throat. "So will you…marry me Misato?"

Now Misato mouth went dry from the sudden question. As said, Misato was speechless on this outcome. Never have she expected to come this far in relationship. But due to her love for Shinji and set to have child, she had no need to refuse. Suddenly she embraced Shinji knocking him down on the ground. As Misato was on top of Shinji, she felt their hearts really connecting.

"Two conditions Shinji, one; don't even think about cheating on me or I'll blow your brains out. And two, don't ever change who you are, even when I die."

Shinji rubbed Misato's face. "I promise, so is that a yes?"

Misato kissed Shinji's lips. "Uh-huh, it's a yes. And besides, if you can make love way better than Kaji, then I'm more than happy to accept you more ways then one."