Chapter 18: Epilogue of the Ages
A love so endearing grew that day. The day Morishige asked Mayu to marry him. It was like his life was complete. Sure, Shig wanted to write screenplays, plays and operas
and even be in a few of them himself but being with Mayu was more important than anything. Well…"I've got to get a job before we get married. I have to bring home the
bread and bacon, but how?" "Oh Shig. Don't worry about that now. Let's go tell our parents." "Are you sure? Your dad will freak out." "Shig, I know my dad can be hard to
please but he's only that way because he loves me so much." "But he hates me...after what happened with Kumi…" "Daddy doesn't hate you anymore. After what happened
two days ago and last night, he's more trusting of you. Besides, we shouldn't feel ashamed to tell our parents about our love." "I know but…" Sakutaro was cut off mid speech
when Mayu playfully kissed him. Mayu grinned very widely and Shig couldn't help but blush. "Okay. We'll tell them." Mayu and Sakutaro eyed the park and the tree one last
time before going home to Mayu's parents. Mayu insisted that they go to Shig's house and, while confused, they called up the Morishiges to tell them that they're coming
over. Shig and Mayu sat next to each other in the car and lovingly looked at each other the entire time. Mayu and Morishige rushed into the house, without giving Mayu's
parents any time to catch up.
"Hi honey! What's going on? You're home from the park already?" Kumiko questioned her son, who was huffing and puffing for breath, but smiling at the same time. "Mayu!
What's with you? What are you doing?" Yukie asked her daughter. "Me and Shig have something really important to tell you, but we can't say it until everybody sits down."
The Morishiges and the Suzumotos sat down as Mayu gently guided them down and excitedly bounced back over to Shig. "Ok, so what's the holdup?" Ken'ichi asked. "Shig,
bro should I tell them?" "If it's what makes you happy." Mayu was bouncing up and down; she could barely contain her own euphoria. "Me and Shig are getting married!"
Silence washed over their parents. "What's wrong? Aren't you happy for us?" Mayu was worried that her parents wouldn't accept Morishige to be her husband. She would
marry him regardless of what anybody thought or said, but having her parents approval meant a lot to her because she knew they'd be just as happy as she would. Kumiko
walked up to her son, placing her hands on his small shoulders. "Sakutaro...Is this true? Did you give that ring to Mayu because you wanted to propose to her? You really
love her that much? To spend your life with her? To be with her even in the darkest moments of your lives?" Sakutaro looked up at her. "Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Yes. Despite all
the years...years...years...fears...fears...blackness...sadness...we still love each other so much. We can't get married right now, but when we get our own jobs...jobs...we can
afford to get married…married...married." Sakutaro felt embarrassed that he echoed his words, repeating again and again, while he was trying to show his mother how
sincere he was, how honest he was. "Daddy, aren't you happy too? Shig will treat me with all the affection in the world and take care of me." Ken'ichi walked over to Shig and
intently stared down at him. "Sakutaro...After everything I've put you through...You still want my daughter?" He stared down at Morishige more and bit his lip. "If Mayu
wants you to be her husband, then I will give you my blessing." "Thank you, sir. I...Ughhh...don't know what to say. You're not mad at me?" "Shig, I told you already.
Daddy's not mad at you anymore." "That's right. Yukie, do you approve as well?" "I approved of them being together a long time ago." she smiled at her husband. "Oh, I'm
so glad you want to be a part of Shig's life as much as I do! This is so wonderful!" Mayu had everything she wanted...almost. She got to marry Morishige. Both their parents
approved of them getting married. There was just two things left to do now. Have her and Shig write an opera together and have his children. She could hardly wait.
*2 years later*
"Mayu! Your knight in shining armor is home!" Shig and Mayu had been engaged for two years now. They were able to find jobs working as stage hands for GlimmerTown, a
traveling play production group that covered classic plays by playwrights such as Shakespeare and even made their own original productions. They weren't rich or well-to-do
by any standards, but they weren't down on their luck or poor either and Shig and Mayu found a wonderful little apartment for themselves. It was great. Just the two of them
alone. All the time in the world. Now, they could work together on their upcoming project during the day and at night assist in setting up props and working with the lights to
create ambiance when needed. "Oh, I'm so glad you're home. What were you out doing?" Shig didn't want to tell her. It was a surprise. Kind of. "Oh nothing really. Just got
some tickets to Tokyo Disney Resort." He grinned, knowing how excited Mayu would be. "How did you get the money?" Tokyo Disney Resort was a very pricey place to get
into, so how in the world could Shig afford it with the money he made? "Let's just say my mother wanted to give you an early Christmas present." Mayu tackled him full force
to the ground with joy and excitement. "Oh, Shig! This is great! You don't know how badly I've wanted to go or how happy this makes me!" "Can I get a thank you kiss?" he
smiled up at her. Mayu giggled at his question but she did want to thank him for such a wonderful gift. She kissed him for what felt like forever and wanted to know more.
"Are we staying at a hotel?" "Yep and it's a Disney one too. Isn't that awesome?" "Shig, you know what I want more than anyone else in the world! Maybe when we get there
we can...you know…" "Oh...Is there any particular reason?" "Yeah...We can have fun and finish our opera. It's almost done. Maybe we can get some inspiration." "That's
totally what I was thinking about too." "Yeah sure. I know what you were thinking about. You oughta get your mind out of the gutter, silly." Morishige was somewhat
surprised Mayu wasn't mad at him. Granted she never really got mad at him, but the fact that he implied making love in their hotel room...He was sure he had done
something wrong. "Mayu, forgive me for thinking dirty thoughts. I'm just being dumb." "Shig, it's okay. Besides, we did it not too long ago." Mayu loved it. They had gotten
home and Mayu was feeling blue because she had a rough day and Morishige wanted to make it up to her. Shig was so loving and gentle. It wasn't the first time they had sex
in their home, but that particular time was really special. She smiled at her fiancé, who had looked away embarrassed. "When do we go?" she wondered. "Next Friday. We
can stay there till Monday afternoon. A whole weekend of vacation! This way we have time to prepare." "Okay. I'll have to find a way to make you as happy as I am." Mayu
had been planning a little surprise for Morishige herself for about a month, give or take, but their big vacation would give her the courage to actually go through with it. She
was sure he'd love it. "Don't worry, Mayu. You don't have to. Just because I do something for you doesn't mean you have to give me something in return." Shig didn't want
her to feel like she had to thank him by buying him something. He just wanted her to enjoy herself. "Allright. I just wanted to show my appreciation after all you've done for
me." "That's what I love about you. You're too good to me." "Oh, Shig you're so sweet. Wait. Does our manager know we're going?" Mayu wondered. "Of course. He's fine
with it."
Today's Friday and you know what that means. Shig and Mayu are going to have their super radical awesome vacation! "Are you all ready, Mayu?" Morishige wanted to get
there ASAP. "Of course, honey. I'm coming out right now." When Suzume was done changing, Morishige was stunned at her beauty. Her swimsuit accentuated every part of
her perfectly. Every. Single. Part. "Shig, are you okay? You were begging me to hurry up and now you can't even move." Sakutaro's face was beet red and his eyes were
staring…"Shig! I'm glad you think I'm so pretty but please listen to me." Morishige covered his face and turned away from her. "Oh, don't feel so upset. I just want to get
going like you." Morishige nodded his head and lead her outside. Shig felt like being the one to drive today since this vacation was his idea in the first place. Shig noticed
Mayu was deep in thought the ride there. "Hey, what's wrong? I thought you really wanted to go." "I'm fine, Shig. I'm just thinking about a lot of stuff. It's all important."
"Hey, let's just go on a few rides today and then relax in our room. Is that okay? I figured taking it slow on our first day would be important so we have enough energy for
everything else and so maybe we could finish the opera tonight. Maybe we can get ideas for the ending?" "I'd like that very much, Shig. It sounds lovely." They went to the
hotel first to leave their stuff in a safe place. For the month of June, Tokyo Disney Resort had some of the hotel rooms redesigned to have Mickey Mouse designs and wouldn't
you know it...Shig and Mayu were lucky enough to get one of those rare rooms. Shig carried almost everything into the room and wasn't complaining when he had to leave
them there. "Shig...I got to tell you something…" "C'mon, Mayu! We have to get out there before the day ends!" Sakutaro grabbed her hand and brought her to the actual
Disneyland part. One of the first things Shig took notice of was one particular roller coaster that involved water. He had to try at least one stand out thing today. "Mayu, let's
go!" he whined to her. Suzume was hesitant. Something didn't feel right. "Hey, what's wrong?" "I'm fine, Shig. It's just that I don't really like heights. That's all." Morishige
could see she felt a bit upset with herself and tried to console her. "We don't have to go on a roller coaster." "Shig, you shouldn't miss out on something because of me. Have
fun. Just come back in one piece, okay?" "Are you sure? I mean…" "Shig, bro relax. I mean it. Please go on the ride. I'll be waiting for you." "Well...If you really think so…"
Mayu smiled while she pushed him in line. Morishige stuttered forward into his seat and was ready to go on one of the most frightening rides of his life. Mayu left quickly to
get herself some cotton candy. She's been having hankerings for the stuff ever since they got here. How couldn't she? The fun, happy air of the park begged her to have
some of the fluffy pink treat. Only thing is is that she bought four things of it all for herself. "I probably shouldn't be eating this much but boy am I hungry. Besides, it's just
cotton candy. What harm could it do?" She watched Shig's roller coaster go round and round, splashing water all about itself. She eagerly came to him when he got off. "How
was it?" "A combo of one of the best and worst things ever. It's so crazy." "Alright. Can we go see Cinderella now? Pretty please." "Sure. Not a problem. Do you want to get
back to the room after?" Mayu gladly nodded her head and dragged him along with her. Seeing Cinderella and her castle was just as Mayu had imagined it would be and then
some. When she was in kindergarten, she would listen to all the kids talking about where they went for vacation and seeing Cinderella and the other princesses was always
brought up. She envied them as they talked about all the colors and how cool seeing Cinderella in person was. When Mayu saw her, Cinderella, she rushed right over and
held tightly onto her. "Oh...uhhh...Hi. Adults don't usually hug me like this." Cinderella was a little confused and surprised, but she saw how innocent and joyous Suzume
was. "What's the occasion?" "I'm here with my fiancé, Shig." "Shig?" "Well, his real name is Sakutaro but I like to call him Shig." "Ok. Got it. Well, I hope you two have a
wonderful day." "Hang on! I'm not done." Mayu secretly talked to Cinderella about her plans for Morishige and Cinderella sounded genuinely excited. "Well, he's sure in for a
surprise. Good luck with that." Mayu ran back over to Shig and he was wondering what Mayu said to her. "C'mon, Shig. It's a surprise. You'll have to wait until tonight."
Morishige really wanted to know what she was so excited about but he listened to her. When it was nighttime, Shig and Mayu were in their room watching some t.v. "Shig,
are you ready to get your surprise?" Shig almost immediately sprang up and flew his head towards her. "I've been waiting all day! Now tell me what it is!" Mayu simply
smiled at him. "Mayu...Tell me. Please. I can't wait much longer. I really need to know what this is." Mayu knew he wasn't playing around; he wants to know and he wants to
know right now. "Shig...bro...I'm pregnant with twins! We have a second chance to be parents!" Morishige was glued to the bed. He couldn't move or talk. "It's only been
about a month, but the doctor said that twins are definitely on the way. Isn't this great? Two for the price of one!" "Ahh...Twins you say? Is that why you didn't want to go on
the roller coaster today?" "Yeah. I'm worried about what I do now. I don't want to hurt the babies. Oh Shig, this makes everything even better! I can't wait!" "Ohhh...Do you
know what they'll be?" "No. I want it to be a surprise for the both of us. What if they're identical? What if they're both girls or boys?" A sudden panicked thought ran through
Mayu's head. "What if one of the babies doesn't make it, like what happened with me and my brother?" Mayu's celebration was cut short by her own worried thoughts. "Hey.
Hey. Mayu, our babies will make it. They'll love you like you'll love them. They'll be perfect like you." He placed his hand over her stomach. "And beautiful just like you.
They're gifts like we know they are." Mayu wrapped her arms around the back of his neck, giving him a fuzzy warm hug. "I have an idea. Hear me out on this. Let's get
married after the babies come." Mayu told him. "Why?" "Because I want them to be a part of our wedding. I know they won't remember it, but nothing would make me
happier than to see our children be a part of the wedding." "Are you sure? I mean...I'm not so sure this is a good idea. Shouldn't it be the other way around?" "I don't
understand...I just…" Mayu sighed. She thought he would be more supportive. "The thought of seeing my baby as the ring bearer or the flower girl. I want it to happen."
Morishige could tell Mayu really wanted this. It's not that he hated Mayu's idea but he was worried how his children would be treated since they'd be born before him and
Mayu got married. "It does sound like a good idea now that I think about it. I was concerned about people bullying my kids because their parents weren't married when they
were born. I don't want them to deal with what I had to." Now she understood why he was doubtful of her plan. She grabbed his hands and placed them in hers. "Shig, I
can't say for certain what will happen to them in the future but I do know that if they ever were to be bullied they'd come out strong like you did and be happy despite the
circumstances." "That's all I needed to hear." He kissed her cheek and she burst into laughter. "What's so funny, Mayu?" "Nothing. I'm a little ticklish." "Oh, you're ticklish
when I kiss you on the cheeks?" He playfully kissed her again and again, reveling in her joy. "Shig, shouldn't we share the news?" "What news?" "Oh come now. The news we
were just talking about. We have to tell our parents that I'm having twins." "Now I know for sure your dad will murder me." How could Morishige explain to Ken'ichi that his
daughter is pregnant again and before the wedding? "Daddy will be surprised. That's for sure. He'll be happy to know the man I love is going to be father of his
grandchildren." "If you say so. Hey, do you still want to continue this vacation?" "I'm not missing out on this. I know I can still have a fun time with you and not worry about
the babies." "Maybe we could get some shopping done and just walk around. I mean if it's cool with you." "That would be lovely." "Okay, good. I want my honeybear and
future children to be safe and sound." "Honeybear? I haven't heard that one before." "It's something new I'm trying out." "Got it. Speaking of bears...I think I have an idea
for how to end the opera. You know how our main lead will be a bear? Well, he comes to realise his place in nature but comes to terms with it as well. He's still friendly but
he's also more aware of just how important he is in the lives of his friends and family and the humans who walk around in the forest. I know it's been done before but I like
those kind of endings where the main person knows that they're not perfect and that there's people who won't like them, but yet they still continue to be positive and helpful
to others." "That sounds like it would be a great ending. I'm glad you came up with something, Mayu, because I was stiffed with writer's block but didn't want to tell you."
"Hey, we should get to bed. Maybe in the afternoon we can find some gifts for our parents and the children." "But what about all the things you just told me? Don't you want
to talk about it some more?" "There's not much else to say right now. Sure, I could discuss it all night, but we need our sleep and I don't think you want to hear me talk
about babies all night." "Alright, Mayu. If you're cool with it then I'm cool with it." Mayu slept very peacefully while she dreamt of her babies being bouncy and full of life. Shig
dreamt about the wedding and what his kids would look like. Shig and Mayu had a wonderful morning and an even better weekend. Mayu bought a plush Olaf the Snowman
for her mom and got a novelty Steamboat Willie tie for her dad. Shig bought some Little Mermaid and Mulan figurines for his mom and for his dad he got a ball cap that was
modeled after Simba, even down to having little ears. Speaking of which, Mayu had to get some Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Lion King onesies and bibs for the babies. She was
sure they'd love them. Who wouldn't? Their vacationing weekend was such fun. Their opera was finished. They found out they were having twins and they got some nice gifts
for their parents.
*2 weeks later*
"Shig, did you tell your parents that I'm pregnant?" "No…" "Why not?" "I forgot. I've been focused on finding someone who'll fund the opera." "It's fine. I know how busy
you've been. Let's go tell them right now. I mean, if you want to." "Sure." He grabbed his phone and brought her to the car. On the way there, Mayu was giddy. "They'll be
so happy. I wonder how excited your mom will be, Shig. I bet she'll be almost as excited as me." "I bet. She loves babies so I'm sure she'll be excited to hear the news." On
the ride there, Shig noticed something going on in a small alley. He saw a man who was lying on the ground, bleeding from what appeared to be a head wound. "Sorry,
Mayu. I have to stop for a minute. That man looks injured. We should bring him to the hospital first." "Let me come with you." "Mayu, stay in the car. Please. If something
happens I want you to be able to drive." "Well...Alright then. Just be quick and careful." He kissed Mayu on her forehead and left to go check on the bleeding man. "Sir, are
you alright? Can you hear me?" The man groaned and spat up some blood in response. "Shit! Hang on. I'll get you out of here." Shig offered his shoulder and managed to get
the man in an upright position. The man's feet dragged across the ground while Shig was getting him to the car. Mayu jumped up at him putting the man in the backseat.
"Mayu, I'll need you to drive as fast as you can." "Right! Got it!" she smiled. When Morishige was about to get in the car, he heard a clicking noise and something cold press
against his head. "Do you have it?" a voice asked. "Have what?" "My coke! Where's my coke?" "What coke? I don't have any." "Don't you lie to me, asshole! Where's my
fucking coke?! You said you'd give it to me today and I don't see it!" "I'm telling you I don't have any. You've got the wrong guy." "You can't fool me. Maybe your bitch knows
where my drugs are." The man kept his gun pressed against Shig's head while he opened the driver's door and tried to grab Suzume. "Let me go!" He yanked her out and
smacked her. "Where is my coke you fucking bitch? Don't lie to me or I'll blow his brains out all over Tokyo!" "We don't have any coke! Why won't you believe us?!" "I'm
getting real tired of this shit! Where is the coke?!" Mayu cried and choked. "I...don't know." When the man dug the pistol deeper into Shig's head, Shig managed to side
sweep the man's feet. Sakutaro was lucky he didn't get shot. While the gunman was disoriented, Sakutaro pushed Mayu back into the car. "Mayu, just go! Take the man to
the hospital and I'll meet you there." "But Shig…" Mayu was scared for Shig's well being. She was afraid of him dying and her children not having their father be there for
them. "We don't have time to discuss this! Just go!" Mayu scrambled to put her seatbelt on and leave until she heard a gun go off. She looked out the window and saw Shig
grabbing his shoulder. He had been shot. "Mayu, go! Don't worry about me! You need to get to saf…" He told her before he was shot again, this time in his back. Tearfully,
she forced herself to leave him behind. Morishige fell to the ground; he couldn't feel his legs. "Now you aren't going anywhere. Give me what I want and I'll leave you alone.
Simple as that." the gunman told Shig, who was feebly trying to crawl away. "Hang on there. You're not going anywhere, remember? Not until I get the coke." He dragged
Shig by his ankles and brought Shig closer to him. "Now…" He paused before the piercing sounds of police sirens came. "Put the gun down, dirtbag! Don't make this any
harder for us!" a police officer shouted at the gunman. "You think you can stop me? What do think you'll do to me? Arrest me? Interrogate me? Put me on death row? You
see, if you put me on death row you won't be getting what you want. I'll be getting what I want." "Shut the fuck up and put the gun down! NOW!" "I think I'll just make it
simpler for everyone." The man swiftly and without warning shot himself in the head. "Shit! Let's get the victim out of here." Shig was barely holding on before he fell
unconscious from losing a large amount of blood.
"How is he?" "He's recovering. He'll live for certain, but he won't be able to walk ever again." A voice mourned. "He's going to be able to care for himself, but his legs are
practically useless." "Who did this to him?" "A young man by the name of Sechi Yazumoto." "Sechi? I remember that name! I used to go to school with him. I thought he
went to a reform school." "He got released last year for good behavior, including volunteer work." "I don't think he learned his lesson." "Yeah...well...that boy had a history of
intermittent explosive disorder coupled with addiction to cocaine. It's not your fault." "I know. Do the police have him?" "No, Sechi killed himself at the scene." Mayu felt
sullen. She wished Sechi was alive. She didn't want him alive for her to get revenge, however. She didn't have a sadistic bone in her body. She was glad, however, that
Morishige was still alive, albeit unconscious. "How's the man I brought in?" "Mr. Himono? He's recovering right now in post op." Mayu called her friends and family to come
and help her fiancé get better. They all came as fast as they could, and soon, Sakutaro's room was filled to the brim with people. "Hey, Shig. I brought our friends and family
here. They all want to help you heal." "Sakutaro...baby. Mommy's here. Mayu told me what happened. You did a very brave thing by saving her." Mrs. Morishige held his
hands. "Hi, Morishige. I really don't know what to say. If I was there for you I'd help you fight that guy off. I really am sorry I couldn't help." Yoshiki felt like he should've
done something but Ayumi assured him that he shouldn't feel guilty. "Morishige, it's me Ayumi. Yoshie is five months old. I tell her about what you've done for us all the time.
Me and Yoshiki have been going out since that day we went to that place. Now we have a beautiful baby girl that really wants to meet you." Ayumi's baby reached out for
Shig's face and snuggled with it. Although unresponsive verbally, Shig's lips quivered slightly into a smile at the baby's touch. The sight warmed everyone's heart. Morishige's
mom looked up at Mayu, noticing a very slight bulge in her tummy. Mayu took notice and told everyone that she's pregnant with twins. Kumiko held onto Mayu tightly and
encouraged her. "If something happens to my son and if he doesn't wake up, I want you to live. Live for me and your children and Sakutaro." "Yes, ma'am." Mayu took
Kumiko's words to heart and looked at Shig some more. He'd have to wake up. She just knew it.
*3 months later*
Morishige finally woke up today. He felt very woozy and had no idea what he should expect. It seemed like only yesterday when he was shot. He noticed Mayu sleeping in a
chair right next to his bed. "Mayu. Hey, Mayu wake up." "Mmmmm…" she groaned. "I'm awake!" Mayu's body sprang up and she looked around Shig's room for the source of
the voice. "Shig? Oh...I...You're…" "Awake. Alive. I know how you invited our friends to visit me and Ayumi...I remember her and Yoshiki's baby touching me." He took notice
of Mayu, who was much further along in her pregnancy. "How long have I been out?" "Three months. I'm five months pregnant now." Shig rubbed his face and sighed. This
was a lot to handle. He tried getting up out of bed and almost rolled onto the floor before Mayu caught him. "I'm sorry, Mayu. I know I can't walk again but still...I wanted to
try and pretend I could." "You don't need to be sorry. Here, let me help you back into bed." Mayu picked his body up and gently put him back in his bed. Shig's nutritionist,
who helped feed him, came in to check on him. "Good morning, Morishige. I'm going to try this more nutritional formula. Hm?" She stopped and stared at Shig and it took a
moment for it to all sink in. "Morishige! You're awake! Oh, I have to report this!" She dropped the nutrition supplement on the floor and ran out to report this most joyous
news. The doctors, nurses, aides, and physical therapist who had taken care of him came in and saw him moving freely, for the most part, around in his bed. "How long have
you been awake?" "A few minutes at most. Maybe ten max." Morishige told them. "How are you feeling?" "Tired. Homesick." "You're not having any headaches are you?" "No.
I'm a little dizzy. That's all. Can't feel my legs but I know why." "Do we have your consent to tell your parents and other contacts and let them know you're awake?"
"Absolutely!" Calls were made. Cars were driven to the Sonhiro Central Care Hospital. "Oh, Sakutaro! My baby! You're awake! Thank god! I thought my little angel would die."
Kumiko wept. "I'm fine mom. Really. Did the doctors tell you about anything else?" "Yes. They told us that you'll need some kind of wheelchair or powerchair now to get
around. I'm upset you can't walk again but I'm just glad you're alive. I think our insurance should be able to cover enough to get you a nice power chair." "I'll admit this is
much to deal with but I'd rather be stuck in a chair than dead." "Shig, I told everyone about our plans and they've all helped us with our wedding and buying what we need.
Ms. Yui was the one who came up with the idea." "Mayu, it's Mrs. Yui now." she smiled, showing off her wedding ring. "When did this all happen?" Shig was confused. How
many more bombshells were coming his way? "A year ago. My husband Ichi, at least that's what I call him, decided to take my last name instead of having me take his. He
wanted to break at least one tradition in his life and if changing his last name to mine was it, then that's what he was going to do." "Where is he?" Shig asked. "He's teaching
trigonometry and geometry at Fujiwaru Community College." "Why did you decide to help us pay for our wedding?" "Because I still care about you, even if you're not my
student anymore. I helped Mayu and the rest of your former classmates organize fundraisers, and there was even a pretty decently sized benefit concert." "Mayu, thank you
for doing this all for me. I'm sorry I've been out for so long." "Don't apologize, Shig. I should be thanking you for saving my life." "You already have, Mayu. I remember you
saying it every time you were here. Even while I was at risk of dying, you never gave up on me coming back and I'm forever grateful."
*2 months later*
"Mayu, do you want anything while I'm up?" Shig was in the kitchen getting ready to make vegetable ramen for himself and wanted to know what Mayu would like. "If you're
making your ramen again, I'd like peas, carrots, and scallions in mine. Please." "I'll get right on it." Mayu felt a sudden panic and ran after her fiancé. "Mayu, what's wrong?"
"Let me help you." "Mayu, how many times have we been through this? Just because I'm in a chair now doesn't mean I'm helpless. I can take care of myself." "I know...It's
just...I feel I need to be your protector now. I still have a hard time dealing with your...condition." "Mayu, relax. I know you still care about me, but I need you to understand
that I'm still Shig no matter what the situation." "I'm not trying to be insensitive. I guess my motherly instincts are kicking in. Speaking of which…" "What?" "Could you put a
little curry in for me too?" "Are you sure? Curry could make you sick." "I'm craving curry. I want curry now!" Mayu yelled a bit. "I'm sorry, Shig. My emotions have been on
edge lately, what with you being in the hospital and the hormones," "It's fine, Mayu. I'll put in a touch of curry so you can get the kick but not explode from the spiciness."
Sakutaro mixed in all the veggies Mayu wanted and put a new spin on it with the addition of the curry. "Hope you like it." While Suzume was grateful, she didn't tell Shig that
right away and mowed down her ramen. "Mayu, slow down. You'll give yourself heartburn." But as he said it, Mayu was done with her soup. "That was amazing!" Mayu,
however, immediately regretted eating so fast. She had this gross feeling of vomit settling in her chest. "Hnnnn...Shig, you were right. This heartburn is really bad." She
immediately ran to the bathroom to throw up and came right out. Mayu had Morishige call an ambulance just to make sure she was alright. When Mayu was being examined,
she felt a weird sticky fluid on her legs. "Huh?" Her water broke. "Oh no! I'm going into labor!" The OBGYN examining her called up the delivery unit to tell them they've got
another mother on the way. Mayu was panicking. "My babies aren't due for another two months!" "We'll discuss this later. Right now we need to deliver the babies!" A whole
rush of medical staff came into the delivery room to help a frightened Mayu. "Is Mayu gonna be alright?" Shig wondered after waiting a few minutes. "Your fiancé is going into
premature labor. It's not uncommon in twin births. When the babies are born they'll need to be in the NICU for a while to make sure their lungs and other organs mature
properly." one of the doctors told Shig. "We'd let you see her, but this delivery is becoming very complicated and we need as much room as possible." "I understand." Shig
waited for hours. In fact he waited an entire day until he could finally see Mayu again. "Mr. Morishige? Your fiancé is waiting for you." "How are the kids?" "They're in the
NICU right now, resting." Mayu was still in the delivery room, waiting to leave for the recovery room. "Mayu, I'm here." "Oh, Shig. The babies...They're so perfect! A boy and
a girl!" "That's…" Shig could hardly talk. "Shig...I think our babies are...well...reincarnations of Kumi and my brother. I sound so silly. I'm so out of it." "No. Don't say that. I
believe you. You saw them first so you're probably right." "Really?" "Yes, Mayu." "Shig, I already know what to name them." "Lay it on me." "Lily and Saito." "Perfect."
*1 year later*
Today was the day Mayu and Morishige were to be married and they both decided it would only be fitting to be married under the tree they met, the tree where Shig
proposed to Suzume. A lot happened after the children were born. Shig and Mayu found out that Saito was partially deaf in both ears and would need hearing aids. Mayu was
devastated but relieved that her son was otherwise healthy. Lily had no congenital conditions. In fact, her and her brother were developing at the speed of sound. They were
smiling before most children, and even spoke their first words several months before their first birthday. Lily and Saito were very bouncy, social babies; they always wanted
to see strangers and hug them. Saito was the most adorable ringbearer ever, with his tiny dress shoes kicking about as Yoshiki held onto him while Lily followed, tripping
over herself a few times to the amusement of others. Lily ran over to the bridesmaids and got picked up by Seiko. Now was the time. It was Mayu's turn to shine. "I don't
know what to say. She looks so...divine. Wait. I don't think that would do her justice." Shig thought to himself. Every waking second of Mayu walking down the "aisle" felt like
an eternity. Her dress was very traditional, which is something she absolutely insisted on. A gentle breeze blew to calm everyone's nerves. "It would appear that the bride
and groom have prepared their own vows." the minister announced. "You go first, Mayu." "Alright. Shig...bro…" Mayu dry swallowed. She was scared; it all seemed unreal.
"Shig, when I met you, I had no idea we'd be here now. It's kinda strange how we came to be. What matters to me is you and I promise until my dying breath to always be
faithful and loyal to you." "Mayu...Mayu...Mayu...Mayu" Shig echoed. "You've...you've helped me live and feel human. When I've almost died, you've been there to save me.
You are so beautiful and...I...p...promise to never leave you." Mayu could tell he felt embarrassed with his stuttering, but she knew he meant what he said. "Alright then. Do
you, Mayu Suzumoto, take Sakutaro Morishige to be your husband?" "Yes. I do." "And do you, Sakutaro Morishige, take Mayu Suzumoto to be your wife?" "I do." "Well...Then
I now pronounce you both husband and wife. Sakutaro, you may kiss the bride." And kissed they did. It finally happened. They are finally married; something they've both
wanted for longer than they could've imagined. Saito reached his hands out at his mom and dad, trying to get their attention. Mayu grabbed hold of her little angel while Shig
held onto Lily. They were finally united at last.
*5 years later*
"Daddy, I wanna go to the park today!" "What did your mother say?" Saito wanted to go to the park with his sisters, Lily and Sanuki, and play Indiana Jones with Sanuki,
only two, being the gem he has to recover. "Mommy said yes!" "Okay, we'll have to take mommy's car because mine isn't done charging." "That means mommy gets to go
with us!" Lily shouted. Mayu snuck up behind her daughter and lifted her up, twirling her in the air. "You scared me, mommy!" Lily cried. "I'm sorry, baby. I just like giving
you surprises." "Speaking of surprises, when is the baby due?" Shig wondered. "Oh, Shig. All of our babies are planned, silly. Anyways, he should be due by your birthday."
"That's a great birthday gift, mommy!" "I'm gonna get a baby brother?" Saito said, bouncing for joy. "Of course, honey. Anything for my little man." Suzume smiled. "I
wanna show him how to play Gundams and baseball! I bet he'll be a lot of fun to play with!" "Oh and I have even more good news, Shig!" "Mommy, why do you call daddy,
'Shig"?" "It's my little nickname for him. I gave it to him when I was your age so I wouldn't forget his name." "So, Shig. There's two things I have to say. One is that I got
someone to fund our opera and they're doing it in Bushido Park today this afternoon. And finally before we do that, I invited two people for us to meet." "Hoo a dey?" Sanuki
asked in her toddler tone. "Yes, Mayu. Who are they?" "Someone you should talk to. It's very important." "If you say so…" Morishige didn't like that his wife wants him to
meet with someone he doesn't know, but he went along with her plan because he didn't want to argue in front of the kids. Shig and Mayu packed their children in the car to
get ready for a day of amazing adventure. The traffic seemed very congested today for some reason. "What's going on?" Lily asked. "I don't know sweetie. Maybe when we
get moving I'll be able to see it and then tell you." A compact car had crashed into another car head on at a one way side street. There were several police cars, two
ambulances, and a fire truck. Naturally, the children were very interested in the shiny fire truck and police cars, but they had never seen an ambulance before today. They
saw a woman being placed on a stretcher, and then a white blanket covered her body. "Mommy, is that lady gonna be alright?" Saito asked. "What do you mean?" "She got a
blanket over her. Is she going to bed?" "Oh...umm...look, Saito. We're at the park already." Mayu wanted to distract her son and his sisters from the fact they've already
seen a corpse in their young lives. She'd discuss it later when it was appropriate. When they arrived at the park, Lily and Saito ran out of the car before their parents could
catch them. Sanuki clutched her mother's hand tightly for security reasons. "Shig, let's get Lily and Saito so we don't lose them." "Of course. But a little help with getting me
in my chair would be very helpful." "Sorry. Sanuki, stand still while mommy helps daddy out." She hoisted him out his seat and put him in his power chair. Shig could do the
rest. "You all set?" "Yes. Thank you, Mayu. I'll go look for the kids. I'll meet up with you when I find them." Shig buckled his safety belt and went after them. "Lily? Saito?
Come to daddy! Daddy and mommy need to be able to see you." The park wasn't necessarily super huge, but it could be easy to lose sight of your child if you weren't paying
attention. "Hi! Is it okay if we stay with you? Our daddy might find us here." Saito asked two women who must've been waiting for someone anyways. "Lily? Saito? Where are
you two?" "We're right here, daddy!" Lily yelled. Shig noticed the women that were sitting with them and made sure the kids weren't causing them any trouble. "They're little
angels. We take it they're yours." "Yes. They ran out of the car so fast, I couldn't catch up to them. Thank you for watching over them." One of the women was about Shig's
mom's age. Her hair had much more grey in it than Kumiko and she looked very tired. "I'm sorry, ma'am but have we met? You look very familiar." "You're Sakutaro
Morishige. I'm Kito's mother." "I...uhhh...wow…" Shig stuttered. "Who's Kito, daddy? Is he a friend of yours?" "No." "I remember you from the trial. You killed my baby boy.
He was all I had left." Kito's mother hated Shig. Her grudge against him grew every day for what he did. "Daddy? Is this true?" Lily cried. "Yes. Daddy did something he's
always regretted. He was trying to protect mommy." "And because of you my baby is gone. I tried so hard to get him treatment and he was doing so well for a while." "Did
your son take medicine?" "He did. He had bipolar disorder. He was such an angel when he got home. He was always so quiet and was always studying." "Mrs..." "Machosiki"
"He tried to kill my wife. He killed my grandfather. He bullied me and tried to sexually assault me." "It's my fault. I knew he would like to avoid taking his medicine but I
ignored it. It's just so hard to accept that my son would ever do something like that." "I should apologize for hurting you. You're pain must be so…" Shig started to cry.
Mrs. Machosiki walked up to him and hugged him. "I forgive you. I know you didn't mean to hurt me." she whispered. Shig looked at the other woman after he was done
hugging Kito's mother. "I was Sechi's girlfriend. I'm sorry for what he did to you." She was also holding her son who was Lily and Saito's age. "This is our son Kaito. He's a
very good boy." Kaito crawled up onto Shig's lap and hugged him. "It's okay. I'm not mad. Daddy said he was sorry." The words of Sechi's son brought Shig to tears. A little
boy who's father tried to kill him...he apologized for him. He even said his father didn't mean to do what he did. Forgiveness is a power all on its own but has even more
impact coming from the mouth of a child. "Thank you, Kaito." "Daddy's happy too. He feels much better now." Kaito looked just like his father and it really felt like he was
apologizing to Shig in person. "Oh, Shig. I knew this would be a great idea." Mayu and Sanuki came out of nowhere. "Daddy do good!" Sanuki yelled. "You were watching the
whole time?" "Yep. I wanted it to happen more naturally. The kids had nothing to do with this. It was a coincidence that they found them." "Thank you, Mayu. I finally have
full blown closure." "Now that that's out of the way, how about we get ready to see the debut of our opera? Mrs. Machosiki, Akumi, would you like to come with us?" They
both nodded. It was just like Morishige and Mayu envisioned it. Hero, the bear and lead role, mused about life while usually having his paws in a pot of honey. Saito even
tried to jump up on stage and almost succeeded if it weren't for his mother. "Saito! Get down from there this instant!" "But mommy...I wanna play with Hero!" "But it's not
safe to jump up like that. You're a smart boy. You should know this." Mayu payed close attention to Saito the entire time, while Sanuki and Lily sat in Morishige's lap.
Everyone had a great time. Even though it wasn't some big Broadway production, Shig and Mayu's opera was a huge hit with the crowd. Even the kids who absolutely hated
opera told Shig and Mayu how much they loved it. "Thank you, Mrs. Machosiki and Akumi for coming to our show and be able to help Shig out." "No problem. Sakutaro is a
nicer guy than I thought he was." Akumi said. "Your husband is such a gentleman. He was very good to the both of us." Mrs. Machosiki told Mayu. They parted ways after and
the kids were loaded into the car and Mayu helped Shig get in and put his powerchair in the back. "Everybody all set?" Mayu asked. "Yes mommy!" The children were in such
a wonderful mood. As they were pulling out the parking lot, Shig smiled. He made amends with Kito's mother and Sechi's girlfriend. The opera had a rousing opening day. All
was well in the universe. The sun was going down, making for a beautiful scene in the streets of Tokyo. Shig turned on the radio because Saito wanted to listen to some
music, but he didn't get a chance to sing along as a breaking news report interrupted the programming. "We bring you breaking news as Tokyo police are in pursuit of a
stolen 1992 black Toyota Camry. Police are advising citizens to be careful as the driver of the stolen vehicle has shown erratic driving behaviors such as running red lights,
swerving in and out lanes and almost hitting several cars." "Mommy, be careful." Lily demanded. "Mommy will." The neighborhood they were driving through seemed empty.
Maybe they followed the advice of the police? Whatever the reason, it didn't feel right. As Mayu was making a turn, a speeding Camry came out of nowhere and smashed
head on into the Morishige's car. Mayu flew through the windshield and into the driver's car, smacking her head against the backseat. Sakutaro and the kids were more
fortunate, if you could even call it that. Shig's head hit the dashboard because the passenger airbag was off. The kids were very close to hitting the front seats but missed
them just barely. Lily and Saito shielded Sanuki by using their arms to cover her and they were successful. The Morsihige's car bounced back like it was in a pinball machine
while the black Camry stopped dead in its tracks. Several police cars followed and police arrested the carjacker and immediately took care of Mayu and then her family as the
thief, who was completely uninjured, was placed in the back of a squad car. Mayu was not as fortunate. When police attempted to rescue her, she was lying in a gory mess
mixed with shattered glass. Her head was drenched in blood. They gently removed her from the wrecked car and placed her on her side. When rescue crews arrived, they
rescued the rest of the Morishige family. Paramedics took great care to place Mayu on a stretcher and get her out as fast as possible without moving her around too much
with her head injury. The family was uninjured, except for Shig hitting his head against the dashboard, but even that was minor at best. "You're very lucky. You only got a
bruise and a bump on the head. We still recommend you and your children go to the hospital to make sure there aren't any internal injuries or bleeding." One of the
paramedics told Shig as he wrapped up Shig's head. "Where's my wife? Is she okay?" "Your wife…" The paramedic's radio made some chatter before he answered. "Suzuki
Seigo, here. I have a 24 year old male, and three children between 2 and 6." " Unit 7, what is the nature of the individuals?" "The adult has a head injury and will need a
wheelchair upon arrival. The three children are unharmed. I'm requesting doctors be ready and check them for internal injuries." "Alright, Unit 7. Proceed back to Kamatchi
Memorial Hospital." Shig held onto his children on the way to the hospital. Shig demanded to know where Mayu was when he got there. "Mr. Morishige, your wife is in critical
but stable condition. She needed many stitches. Several brain scans show damage to her occipital lobe." "What does that mean?" "It means she may be blind. We'll know the
severity within a few hours after we're done running tests on her and the baby." "The baby will make it?" Shig asked. "Yes, but Mayu was deprived of oxygen for a short time
and we're worried the baby was as well." "Wha da mean?" Sanuki wondered, her little mind not quite sure what was going on. "It means your baby brother might have a
problem." "Can I see my wife?" "We have to examine you and your children first." Shig and the kids were uninjured internally. Morishige wanted to see Mayu right away as
soon as he was done being examined. The doctors brought them to Mayu's room where she lay awake but barely. "Mayu...honeybear? How are you feeling?" "Shig? I can
hear you but I can't see you." "The doctors said your head injury caused you to go blind. They said it wasn't permanent but you may need glasses afterwards." "I can't be
blind." "But Mayu…" Shig could tell Mayu was distraught about losing her vision, albeit temporarily. "Is the baby alright?" "The doctors are making sure he isn't going to have
problems at birth because you were deprived of oxygen." "What are we going to do? I can't see. The baby might have special needs." "Mayu...we'll be fine. Me and the kids
will help take care of you. Right, kids?" "Yes, daddy!" "You guys are so sweet. What would I do without my family?" "Mayu?" It was her parents. "Grandma! Grandpa!" The
children were very excited now. "My little angel! The hospital told us what happened. I'm so glad you're safe!" Yukie cried. "Thank you mom. I'm sorry I scared you like I
did." "It's fine, honey. All we care about is that you and the family are safe." Ken'ichi said. Saito and Lily wanted to be held by their grandparents while Sanuki was much
more comfortable in her father's arms. "Sakutaro, let us help you around the house. You already have your hands full with the kids and now Mayu needs you more than ever.
How about we help watch the kids with your parents while you help Mayu adjust?" Ken'ichi suggested. "Yay! Grandpa and grandma are gonna be home all the time!" "Thank
you so much, Mr. Suzumoto. I would appreciate that very much." Shig felt a bit of a burden leave his shoulders. It's not that he considered his family burdens, but watching
over Lily, Sanuki, and Saito while helping Mayu make adjustments to her blindness could've worn Shig out easily if he took it all on his own. His and Mayu's parents helping
out would be very helpful to Shig and Mayu because they would know their children would be taken well cared of and plus the kids loved being with their grandparents.
*20 years later*
Mayu, thanks to her husband, adjusted very well to being blind but her blindness didn't last very long. Within two months she slowly but surely regained her vision. She got
most of her vision back when Kanimura, the new baby, was born. She was very thankful she could see her new child in her arms and that he could see her. Kanimura was
born with a type of cerebral palsy that left him hemiplegic, but even then it's not like he was helpless. The doctors gave him a very hopeful prognoses that if they started
physical therapy early Kanimura would be able to walk on his own, albeit with an atypical gait. Mayu was declared legally blind so Morishige had to drive her to work. Mayu's
and Sakutaro's parents were very helpful in taking care of the kids and providing peace of mind to Shig and Mayu. Lily, Sanuki, Saito, and Kanimura became what every
parent wants for their child: successful and happy. Saito became a pediatric oncologist and, with several other pediatricians, built a brand new children's hospital whose
mission is to heal all children who are ill, physically and mentally. Lily and Sanuki both became chefs at a very classy restaurant that would also hold food drives to help
starving/homeless individuals and families. Kanimura worked at a host club called Velvet Infinity where, believe it or not, he worked as a host himself. His parents didn't like
the idea at first but they did like how confident he was, and he didn't do anything lewd since his club had much more strict rules in place for their hosts when handling
customers. Kanimura was a very handsome young man and almost every woman looked past his disability and loved talking to him. He learned from his parents and
grandparents how treat a woman like a princess without letting them take advantage of him. Kanimura had always been a favorite with the ladies and now he could live a
very happy life in a secure job where he was surrounded by women constantly praising him for his kindness and looks. Mayu was sitting in bed thinking about her children
while Shig was lying in bed waiting for his wife to fall asleep with him. "Shig, thank you." "For what?" "For everything. Without you I don't think I'd be here today with a
loving husband and wonderful children." "Mayu, you're just as important too. Without you I wouldn't even be alive. You're the one who should be getting all the praise."
"Thanks, Shig. I really appreciate that." "Plus, how many couples can say they've been in a nearly perfect relationship like ours? No real fighting and children who are
successful individuals. I'd say that's everyone's dream." Mayu smiled at her husband and kissed him goodnight. When they were about to go to bed, Mayu got a phone call
from her children who were all sharing Lily's phone. "Hi, mom!" Sanuki yelled. "Hi, honey! What's going on?" "Me and Lily and Saito and Kanimura wanted to thank you for
everything you and dad have done for us." "Oh…" Mayu teared up. "What's going on?" Shig asked. "The kids are thanking us for everything." she cried. "Let me talk to them!"
he demanded. Shig answered the phone and Kanimura was talking. "Dad?" "Yes?" "I wanted to say thank you for being such an inspiration. Guess what? I met this girl at my
club and we really hit it off." "Oh really?" "Yeah! She's super amazing and...we're getting married!" Shig quietly covered the phone to talk to Mayu. "What is it?" she asked.
"Our little boy...Kanimura...is getting married!" Mayu was so excited to hear the news. She took the phone away from her husband. "Kanimura, I'm so proud of you! I can't
believe it! I'm so happy!" "Thanks, mom. I know we'll be just like you. Happily married and with wonderful kids. Thank you."