Yusei and Aki drive around on their D-Wheels throughout Neo Domino City. Yusei gives Aki a tour of what has progressed and developed, including the Riding Duel routes she observed when arriving. But, there was also numerous areas of transportation she never thought possible when she left, such as an increase in subway stations and metro rails that seem to spread out in all directions. Even though it seemed a long time, Aki notices Yusei's D-Wheel hadn't changed in terms of appearance, sound and performance.
"I see that your D-Wheel is running as well as I remember it, Yusei." Aki comments.
"Thanks." Yusei replies. "Of course, it needs upgrades every now and then, but I make sure my D-Wheel does not break down. By the way, if you don't mind, I would like to inspect your D-Wheel to see if there are any potential breakdowns."
"Now that you mention it, I wouldn't mind at all." Aki answers. "It has been six months since I checked it."
"Okay. Then I'll check it once we arrive at Poppo Time." Yusei says.
"Poppo Time? You still live there, Yusei?" Aki asks.
"Yes, but I also own it." Yusei mentions. "Zora and her son, Leo, paid off the property about two years ago, and Zora was willing to sell it to me at a decent price a year later."
"That's great." Aki smiling. "Since you own the place, where do Zora and Leo reside now?
"They moved into the country and have opened up a clock repair shop of their own to assist those in need."
By the time the conversation ended, Yusei and Aki arrived at Neo Domino Hospital. Aki was expected to start her employment there in less than a week. Even the hospital had received renovations and upgrades since Aki's departure.
"So this is where I begin soon, huh?" Aki in amazement of the facility's appearance.
"I think you'll enjoy working here immensely, Aki." Yusei replies. Aki nods.
"I agree."
After making a trip to Neo Domino Hospital and then stopping by a local store for a quick refreshment, Yusei and Aki drove another 10 minutes to Poppo Time. On the outside, the structure had not changed in terms of appearance. But, Aki recalls all of the memories she had with the place, including her D-Wheel being built, celebrating their first WRGP victory over Team Unicorn, and the night before she left to pursue her career.
"Um, Aki. Are you okay?" Yusei in question.
"Um, yeah, Yusei. I am fine." Aki breaking out of her trance. "It's just that I haven't been here for a long time."
"Well, I think you'll enjoy what I've done since I bought the place."
Yusei shows Aki the areas that he added to the house. Yusei made sure he had a couple of extra guest rooms for anyone that may be stopping by for a couple of days. He also included a game room which included arcades, a ping-pong table and even a simulated dueling arena for those that would like to tone their skills. Finally, they made their way to the garage, and Aki didn't notice anything different from what she remembered.
"I can see nothing's changed here." Aki states. "I suppose you like it as it is."
Yusei smiles.
"Actually, I did make a couple of upgrades…" Yusei walks over to a remote control and presses a button to reveal the upgrades. On one end of the wall, Yusei reveals all of his tools and spare parts for that area, so he can adjust or repair his D-Wheel. It was like he had his own repair shop in his garage. On the other side of the wall, Yusei had a large jukebox where he custom built from scratch and also installed his own music tracks.
"It's amazing." Aki reacts to his work. "But, do you really need a jukebox in your garage?"
"Of course." Yusei replies. "It can get quiet down here, so I thought this would be a great addition to it. Also, when I heard you were coming, I had something in mind."
"What did you have in mind?" Aki asks. Yusei went to the jukebox and played a ballad tune.
"Would you like to dance?" Yusei extends his hand to Aki. She develops a slight blush, but nods.
"Okay." Aki replies.
The two stood close to each other as they had a slow dance with their arms wrapped around each other's shoulder and waist. Once they were in their own comfort zone, Yusei and Aki smiled at each other, enjoying the moment.
"I see you haven't lost that smile of yours." Yusei states.
"I don't see a reason why I can't stop smiling now." Aki replies. "Every time I smile, you are the one that I think of, because you have encouraged me to do my best no matter what challenges I have to face. Thank you for always being there for me."
"Well, I am happy that you have done well and have returned to Neo Domino City." Yusei replies. "In the last eight years, there is still no one in the world that has a more beautiful smile than yours, Aki. You're one of a kind."
"Yusei…" Aki's gaze softens as she stares into Yusei's eyes for the longest time. "This is like last time when we were here. Do you remember, Yusei?"
"Like it was yesterday, Aki…"
Yusei and Aki leaned towards each other as their heads drew closer and their lips met for a second time. But, this kiss was different. This lasted longer and their arms were wrapped around the other person. It seemed as if time stood still. When their kiss ended, Aki laid her head on Yusei's right shoulder and shuts her eyes.
"My love for you, Yusei, will never end."
"My love for you, Aki, will be everlasting."
Aki is here to stay.
NEXT CHAPTER IS THE FINAL CHAPTER…