Disclaimer: I don't own Initial D; it is one of my favorite comics. I hope that my fanfic won't offend any Initial D's fans. I have created a female Takumi instead under the name of Tatsuki; I hope you will like them. This is a fanfic. All characters except for Initial D's characters are all imaginary characters. Most of the details are fictional and any similarities are coincidence.

The first Kanagawa expedition was at Yabitsu Pass where Kenta scouted the course. The course footage was already imprinted on Tatsuki's mind when she watched it repeatedly on the Shinkansen. She leaned back on the seat with the image of Yabitsu Pass replaying in her head. She turned her face to the window, taking a break and enjoying the view along the track. She walked to the black limousine with Kaito immediately after she got out of the station. Both of them went straight to the location where she did some filming production before she attended the concert in the evening.

Tatsuki and Kaito came back to Gunma right after the concert. They took the late-night train and reached home in the morning. She had a good sleep on the train. Bunta gave his daughter the key to a vacation lodge in Kiyokawa Village in Mount Tanzawa. He had sent someone to clean up the place and brought all necessities for Project D. This was one of his friends' vacation homes that was seldom used. Tatsuki thanked her dad before she drove off.

The Project D downhill ace got out of her car with a bag of Okashi from Osaka. She put it on the table and sat down with her headphones on, cut herself off from the surrounding. Keisuke looked at the only girl in the team, wondering why she was so distant today. With some information on Team 246, Tatsuki was prepared herself to meet with the opponent that was more skillful than her. After that morning talk with Ryosuke, Tatsuki was more focused than she ever was. It was his dreams and she was ready to walk this adventure with him.

The Project D arrive at Yabitsu Pass in the evening with many locals scattered along the pass. There were men with stopwatch which Keisuke noticed while doing his practice runs. Ryosuke was not bothered by those people collecting their data. While they were discussing, Tatsuki was not a fair bit affected by the situation. She was concentrating on her practice runs, observing the course as she compared to the footage. She led the team to their accommodation in Kiyokawa Village after the practice. She was greeted by a young chef and her assistant, Fina. They had food on the table ready for them to eat before taking a rest. Fina turned on the soft music on the CD player.

"Why are you here this weekend? I thought I told you to take a break," Tatsuki asked her assistant.

"It's Sakamoto-San's instruction," Fina replied as she knew that she could not disobey both of her bosses.

"His house, yah!" she muttered.

She had her breakfast and went straight to her room. She slumped into her bed as soon as she got out of the shower. She slept eight hours straight before woke up at three in the afternoon. She met with Matsumoto and they went out to see the actual course. Matsumoto noticed how meticulously she was doing on this course today. She told him she was getting serious about the race. The more difficult the battle was, the more motivated she was. They got back to the lodge before sunset. Tatsuki had a good shower and changed into a white printed t-shirt and jeans. She wore just a cap tonight.

Keisuke's hill climb battle started first. With Ryosuke's prep talk with Keisuke, he knew what he should do. He explained to Fumihiro the difference between street racing and circuit racing. Street racing required more courage, fighting spirit and gift from God or luck. Keisuke won the race with a seven-second gap, sealed their first victory in Kanagawa.

Tatsuki was warming up since Keisuke began his race. This surprised the team when their never seen her doing such thing before. This was Tatsuki's actual attitude when she meant business. Her battle started soon after the uphill battle was over. She introduced herself to Omiya Satoshi. His aura told her how strong he was. Ryosuke had some talk with her about the race. He wanted her to make her move on the second half of the course and finished within the first round.

Hojo Go was watching the battles and discovered that the downhill driver was the girl he met last summer with her father. However, she grew up from last year. She seemed a stranger to him now. Tatsuki went all out for the battle. She was caught off guard at the second half of the course and Satoshi passed her. She regained her concentration and still keeping up with the roadster. She turned off the headlights, using blind attack techniques. Satoshi was confused by Tatsuki and they were running side by side with Satoshi still came out ahead of her. However, as they passed through a tight corner, Satoshi's rear wing snapped after hitting something and spun off. Tatsuki was nearly collided with the roadster and took the lead. Satoshi was struggling with his car as he continued to the finish line.

Ryosuke wrapped up the race with no time attack runs. He tapped on her shoulder as a compliment for her victory. Tatsuki told him that it was her lucky day. She put on her headphones, told him that he could see her in Akina if he wanted and walked to her car. Ryosuke looked at his girlfriend with a soft gaze. She followed Keisuke's car as the convoy were heading back to Gunma.

The Akina warehouse was lighted on the first floor as the owner was still excited about her race hours earlier. She was sitting by the bay window, reading some business reports before moving on to some drawings. A soft music was playing on the background, accompanied the lonely artist who was waiting for someone. As time passed, her eyes were slowly clouded with tears.

Ryosuke came to Akina before sunrise. He quietly walked into the living area, looking around for the owner. His eyes stopped at the girl by the window. He was staring at the girl who was wrapping her arms around her knees. He walked over and saw her in tears. Those streaks of tears were running down the corner of her eyes, piercing through his heart. He wrapped his arms around her, pulling her into his embrace on that narrow platform. He now realized that she was not as strong as she showed. She just kept her unhappiness and fears within herself. He led her down to the ground. She held him tight, showing how much she missed him.

"You must compensate me after we move to America," she pouted.

He nodded and asked her out on Monday morning. Tatsuki told him that she was sleepy now. He shook his head and they went to their bedroom.

Ryosuke picked Tatsuki up from her house in Shibukawa in the morning. He had a good talk with Bunta about what he was going to do today. Bunta gave his final answer and got into his shop. Ryosuke brought her to the cafe near her high school. One of the places that he brought her before when he started fetching her to school last year.

Tatsuki looked at the signage of the Minato City Office and her boyfriend. He led her into the building where they would be binding together lawfully. Tatsuki looked at their marriage certificate in her hands, uncertain of what just happened. He brought her to their penthouse where they could have a good talk. Tatsuki was staring at the paper, disbelieving that they had done such things.

"You haven't proposed to me. How can you skip that?" Tatsuki asked when she was looking forward for a romantic proposal from him.

"I'll do it later, Mrs. Takahashi," he smiled at her reaction.

"My dad gave you the green light, huh? When did you two get along so well?" she questioned.

Ryosuke pulled her into his embrace. They had some chats before Tatsuki kept all their documents in the safe in the library. She showed Ryosuke the safe and other parts of the house that they would be staying together. She retrieved a box of their custom-made rings and put them on white gold chains. She explained the meaning of their set of wedding rings. She slowly put it on his neck while he did the same for her.

"I've read a book. There's a sentence that says love is not about the romance he shares with his love ones but it is having her at his dining table every day..." she laced her fingers on his face.

"My love for you is... to see your smile... to see you become the person you want to be... to see your dreams fulfilled... it's all about you. I want to build my dreams with you... am I asking too much?" Tatsuki sat on his lap with her arms around his neck, gazing at his eyes.

"No, not much... it's also mine," Ryosuke whispered as he nipped at her lower lip.

How could he ask anything from her when she had given him so much? All she wanted was just him by her side. She was so devoted to him and their love.

"If one day, you don't love me anymore... please tell me, I will be the one to leave..." she said.

"It won't happen, Tsuki-Chan. You'll never have that chance to leave me!" Ryosuke spoke in his serious tone. "You'll only hear me telling you... time flies and we're together for twenty... thirty... sixty years now."

He kissed her passionately. They watched a movie together and fell asleep on the sofa.

Project D had two weeks break before the next battle. In the meanwhile, Ryosuke spent most of his time in Akina with Tatsuki. She looked at the new course on his simulation. She told him that she had a run there last year. She left him in the warehouse as she went out for her practice session. She was practicing hard when she knew how good her next opponent was.

Ryosuke was leaning on the sofa as he watched the sun setting from the outdoor porch. He was thinking about his past with Hojo Rin and Kaori. If Hojo Go was in Kanagawa, Rin would be there too. It should be the time that they both solved their problems. Tatsuki sat down and snuggled up with him. She knew that he had something bothering him.

"Don't brood over it... just do what you need to do. I'll wait for you to come home," she laced her fingers along his cheek.

She placed a light kiss on his lips. He pulled her into his lap and held her tightly. Tatsuki looked at the knot in his brows and gently loosened it. She played with his hair with a smile and messed his ruffled hair. She noticed his hair grew longer and was wondering how would he looked like with a longer hair. She felt that he would look good as well. She told him to pack up as it was time for dinner and they had arranged a dinner with her father every day. Bunta looked at his daughter and newly son-in-law as they entered the house. He appreciated that they cared to accompany him at dinner. He noticed the changes in them. They were not acting like head-over-heels to each other anymore but rather harmonious and amicable one.

Tatsuki took out a velvet box containing a pair of unknown stone earrings and placed on the table. She looked at Ryosuke, asking silently if he was willing to wear it. Bunta watched them exchange their eyes contact, waiting for the answer. He took out an ear-piercing gun and sanitized before he wore for each of them. They wore each of the earrings on their left helix and took their photo together. This was the second item showing that they were together.

Ryosuke asked for a favor from Matsumoto to tune his FC. It would be a secret between them. Matsumoto was surprised that Ryosuke was going to race again. He looked at Lake Akagi where Kaori was once standing and the wedding rings on his neck that reminded him of the most important person in his life.

The next expedition was taken place at Nagao Pass with Team Katagiri. Tatsuki was uncomfortable with the new setting for her car especially with the roll cage installed. Her house car had transformed into some sort of a rally car now. There were many people along the pass, collecting their data liked the previous battle with Team 246. Tatsuki put on her headphones while waiting for Matsumoto did his work. She was calm and collected during the session.

Project D packed up and headed to the vacation house in Hakone. As usual, Tatsuki had a shower once she reached the house. She came down in her silk pajamas and had her breakfast. Ryosuke looked at her modest clothes with satisfaction. She told the guys that there was an open air onsen behind that they could use. As for her, she could just enjoy it in her own room. She watched the music video on the large screen while she ate her breakfast. Her fingers were tapping on the table. She looked at herself on the screen with a smile at how it was beautifully done. She got up and went back to sleep. Fina turned off the video and asked the chef to prepare the lunch/dinner menu in the afternoon.

Tatsuki woke up at three and went out to inspect the course. She came back after two hours and relaxed herself in her in-room onsen. She came down for dinner, listening to Fumihiro gathered the guys for their meal. She smiled at the guys and shook her head helplessly. She got out of the house after dinner, standing under a tree. Ryosuke walked over, talking to her. Their fingers were intertwining as they chatted. They looked like they were just talking about something serious with no strings attached.

The downhill battle started first in a chasing manner. She met with Koshigawa Kai again. Kai looked at the Project D's downhill ace, knowing how much she had grown. She greeted him and walked back to Ryosuke for his instructions. She started with Kai chasing after her. With full concentration on the course, Tatsuki showed her extraordinary skills to her opponent. She had entered what Ryosuke called Fujiwara Zone, when she was in sync with her car as one. He noticed this ability when they were first raced on Akina. However, it became more obvious when he watched her practice recently. It was even extended to the Impreza lately. The amount of practice she put in for the past two months was tremendous, resulting in her ability that was yet to be explored. Kai had a kind of illusion that Tatsuki was pulling away from him at every turn. While he tried not to make any mistakes, Tatsuki had already in her zone and was driving beyond the limits. Kai had observed Tatsuki and decided to head on with the braking attack. As the two were fully flat out on the battle, Kai pushed his limits and spun his car. Tatsuki was already widening the gap, made it impossible for Kai to close in. She got out of the car, stretched herself after a long rigid ride. They had a little chat which Tatsuki told Kai that she was not interested in professional racing. She just wanted to prove to herself that she could be one if she wanted. Kai smiled at her usual vagueness which he never understood what she was thinking.

Keisuke's opponent was a pro-racer, Minagawa Hideo. Hideo chose to let Keisuke in the lead, wanting to know if he could shake Keisuke off. Their battle was tensed with Hideo was getting irritated by Keisuke's FD. Hideo realized how good Keisuke was with his acceleration skills and tire management. As Supra was a heavier car, Hideo had lost his tire grip and bumped on the rear of FD. He was defeated and slow down. The Project D wrapped up and headed back to Gunma.

With the appearance of Hojo Rin or Shinigami in Kanagawa, many racers were talking about what they encounter when they met with him. Rin became anti-social after the death of Kaori. His appearance was meant that he was going after Ryosuke.

At Akina cottage, Ryosuke was overlooking the lake as his settlement with Rin drew near. He put his hands on the small cold hands that just wrapped around his waist. Tatsuki leaned on his back as they stood there in silence. The quieter he was, the more uneasy she felt. She knew how fast and skillful he was but what she feared was his life. She pulled herself out from him and slowly looked down on her two hands. Ryosuke was confused by her reaction. It was the first time she had this feeling of frustration why she could not do something.

"What's wrong, Love?" Ryosuke asked.

"I never..." Tatsuki paused and spoke. "Forget about it. Nothing."

Ryosuke pulled her into his arms, knowing that she was worried about him. He asked her not to go and watch his race with Rin no matter what happened. Tatsuki remained silent as she knew that she could not fulfill his request.

"I'm going for my practice," Tatsuki said and walked to her car.

Project D arrived at Nanamagari Pass for their third Kanagawa expedition. Tatsuki was getting more unspeaking than usual. She put on the headphones and doing her warmup for the practice session. Keisuke looked at his teammate with questions. He could feel the turbulence under her unflappability as she prepared for the practice runs. Not only the Project D downhill ace, their leader was also just like her. Tatsuki looked up at the sky, as the rain would be setting in soon.

They packed up in the morning and headed to the vacation house in Hakone. Tatsuki sat down and had her breakfast before returned to her room to rest. The guys were anxious about how she was behaving since they left Gunma. Ryosuke assured his team that she was alright. He sneaked into her room to check on her. She was already asleep; however, she wrapped her arms around his waist when she knew it was him. He laid down beside her and held her as they slept together. They both woke up ahead of her usual time. Tatsuki looked at the rain outside the window and made her way to the pass. Ryosuke went with her to inspect the course. He held the umbrella for both of them as she hugged him tightly.

"If you don't come back safely, I..." she said with a heavy heart, knowing that she would be able to do something crazy.

"I promise that I won't let you become a widow," he said with a smile.

Tatsuki threw a light fist on his chest, annoying at how he could still tease her. They went back to the house where she just sat down on the sofa, watching her new music video. She threw her head back, staring blankly at the ceiling. Ryosuke walked over with a small towel and covered her beautiful face. Tatsuki remained in that position until she fully composed herself. She gave Karen an impulsive order to release her third album tomorrow morning. All staffs were called back immediately. She threw another surprise by saying that there would be no press conference for this album. Karen was furious at her boss's willfulness. Tatsuki laughed out loud when she thought of how Karen reacted and how raging she must be by now. The guys at the dining table were stunned at her sudden reaction. She went up to the room to change.

"Do you think this is the right thing to do?" Ryosuke asked when he found out what she had done.

Tatsuki looked at him in her ruffian manner as she leaned back on her chair.

"I'm the boss. I can do what I want," she smirked. "Sometimes they need a little push to show me how efficient they are."

Ryosuke looked at her with a question what she was thinking.

"Don't worry. They'll be fine. They know how confident I have in my work. Let's bet if I can break my current record," Tatsuki told Ryosuke with a conceded smile.

"Oh, and don't worry. I will do whatever it takes to win tonight!" Tatsuki began to ate her dinner.

Tonight, battle started with uphill race with Keisuke was in the lead and Ikeda Ryuji as a chaser. As Keisuke was keeping up with Ryuji, he noticed how his opponent was handling his car at high speed in this wet conditions. The Nanamagari course had another name, "The White Devil of Hakone". The fog around the course was worse than the rain. Ryosuke had predicted that the fog would creep in during the race. Keisuke was fighting hard with Ryuji, causing increasing pressure for Ryuji. They were both racing into the fog with Keisuke sped up side by side with him. With a little trick, Keisuke overtook Ryuji as they raced into the thick fog. Ryuji was more cautious and eased the acceleration when he had no visibility ahead. Keisuke won the race.

Tatsuki stood by Ryosuke's side, listening to his advice on her battle. She introduced herself to Okuyama Hiroya before the race started. Tatsuki started off with her usual practice rhythm, pulling away from the S15. She gradually increased her pace as she slid through the S-curve, entering the thick fog. The Hachi-Roku continued to pull away and left Hiroya behind as she disappeared into the foggy mountain pass.

While Tatsuki was practicing on Akina in her Hachi-Roku, the heavy modified RX7 FC3S was doing his test run on Akagi. He came back to Akina with Tatsuki already waited in the garage. She looked at the RX7 with a big GT wing. Knowing his final race was just hours away, she led him to their room for a good rest.

Both of them woke up around late morning on the next day. Tatsuki took out a formal suit for her husband. She tied the necktie for him, checking that he was ready to go. He promised her his safety return when she sent him off after lunch.

Tatsuki got back to her room, dressed in a white babydoll dress. She took a black aluminum luggage with her. Kaito was already waiting for her at the gate. They both were heading to Kanagawa, Hakone Turnpike. She was waiting at the finish line while setting up her drone. She watched their battle with anxiety when she saw how Rin was trying to crash Ryosuke. It was not a race but it was murderous act from Rin. She clenched her fists as she watched how Ryosuke went head on with Rin's intentions.

On the Hakone Turnpike, Rin's R32 was tailing behind Ryosuke's FC. The race was getting more dangerous as they were racing down the course. The flashbacks of Rin, Ryosuke and Kaori were replayed. The feud between Ryosuke and Rin was showing up. Rin accused Ryosuke for being cold-hearted and moved on too fast. He knew that he was the one who pushed Kaori too far. He was the one who played the major part in her death. Ryosuke took on Rin's move without any hesitation, skillfully controlled his car back on the road. He knew that he had someone dearly waiting for him. When he realized what how dangerous Rin was in this situation where the brakes and tires of R32 were worn out, he tried his hardest to save Rin's life. It was their luck that Ryuji spotted the Shinigami and came up behind. Both Ryosuke and Ryuji were helping the helpless unstoppable R32. They finally stopped the R32 at the end of the road before the toll.

Tatsuki was standing at the toll gate with a stern face. She was furious at what Ryosuke had done but relieved that he was safe at the same time. She got into the white FD and left the pass. Ryosuke knew that he had another issue to deal after this.

Rin and Ryosuke had a good talk, clearing their two years long-standing feuds. Ryosuke told him who the person he saw at the toll gate was. He told him that he was leaving to further his studies next year and would be back after five years. Rin was surprised to see a huge change in his kohai. Ryosuke left to pick up Matsumoto before he heading back to Gunma. Matsumoto smiled in relief when he saw Ryosuke came back. He felt that Ryosuke was more relaxed than he used to be in Red Suns days.

Ryosuke asked Matsumoto if he could drop him off at Roppongi instead. He told his mechanic to drive the car back to his workshop. He told Matsumoto that Tatsuki was at the finish line just now. He scratched his head to hide his embarrassment when Matsumoto teased him.

Matsumoto looked up the luxurious condominium in the heart of Roppongi with astonishment. He never thought that Tatsuki would own something like this. Ryosuke told his mechanic-cum-friend that there were a lot more that he did not know about her.

The whole penthouse was in the darkness when Ryosuke entered. There were no lights and curtains closed. He could only see a white hued figure in the middle of the room. Suddenly, the television was turned on with the racing scene on Hakone Turnpike playing on the screen.

Tatsuki was standing there watching the picture replay repeatedly. Ryosuke was speechless as he stepped forward towards his wife. She showed no emotion on her face.

"I'm wondering what will happen if Keisuke or your parents or... were to see this," she said softly.

"Do you know how I felt when I was watching you racing down that road?" Tatsuki added without turning around to see him.

Ryosuke wrapped his arms around her waist, holding her hands and said sorry.

"Do you know I'm starting to get sick of your apology? Have you ever spared a thought for me? Do you ever think of my feelings if anything happens to you? How can you be so cruel to me?" Tatsuki said in tears.

Ryosuke was lost for words at her questions. Each question was like a punch to his heart, so painful that he could only held her tighter in his arms. He could not find any way to console her at this moment. He regretted this inevitable decision. Both of them knew that it must be done and she gave him the support. However, he understood her fears when she witnessed that murderous race.

"It's over now, no more such events. I promise I'll never race with anyone again, without your permission," he told her.

"Remember your words," she remarked.

Tatsuki nodded and turned off the television. She slowly ejected the CD from the player and kept it in the safe. She took a shower and led Ryosuke to the basement car park. They got into the white Porsche Boxster Spyder and drove off to Akagi. Tatsuki slowly curled up in the seat and dozed off as Ryosuke was driving.

Ryosuke was preparing for their final match against the Sidewinder team in a week time. He knew their uphill driver who was Hojo Rin's brother. It had been a long time since he last met Hojo Go. However, their team's downhill driver was still a mystery. From his insiders, there was a young fast driver on this course and the car was a Hachi-Roku. He was contemplating whether to scout the team himself. Without an accurate information, there would be some uncertainty in his outcome. He looked at his driving simulation, tapping his fingers on the table as he was thinking.

Ryosuke drove off to Mt. Akina. He passed the Hachi-Roku while driving up the course. Tatsuki was still practicing at such hour. He stopped along the course and watched. He slowly narrowed his eyes when he saw her driving skills. She was improving steadily which amazed him. He also wanted to know how long she would notice his presence on the course. Tatsuki saw the familiar white sport car once it pulled over but she chose to ignore him completely. She had her own practice schedule to complete so his presence was a kind of distraction to her. She took out her phone and told him to wait for her at the warehouse.

Ryosuke knew from her tone of voice that she was unhappy with his presence. He obediently drove up to the warehouse where he had a shower before he placed their supper in the dinnerware. He then relaxed himself on the sofa with a drink. Tatsuki came back after two hours. She saw the food in the cloche and smiled. She then went upstairs before came back after a long time.

Tatsuki walked downstairs with a towel over her head. She sat down beside her husband, while he helped her drying her hair. He noticed that her hair was getting longer.

"I didn't expect you to come over tonight," she said.

"I'm thinking of going to Kanagawa tomorrow," he told her, dropping the dampened towel on the coffee table.

He led her to the dining table where they had their supper. He simply told her about what was on his mind. His preparation would not be complete without the information of the other driver. Tatsuki was interested to go with him tomorrow.

"Let's have a date tomorrow," she said with a smile.

"Yes, my princess," he replied.

Tatsuki came back from her morning delivery at six. She sat on the bed, looking at his sleeping face. Ryosuke pulled her into his embrace and snuggled her affectionately. They were staying in bed for some time. Tatsuki pulled herself out from his arms and got into the bathroom. Ryosuke sat up, looking at his wife with his undying gaze.

Tatsuki walked out of the bathroom in a bathrobe and cued him to get up. She slowly put on the skin care routine before drying her hair. She knew that Ryosuke did not like her to put on any makeup. She stood at their walk-in wardrobe, choosing some clothes for him. She picked a pale pink shirt and beige pants for him, while she got a matching pleated pink dress for herself. Ryosuke kept the bed while waiting for her. He was surprised when she was packing an overnight bag. She just briefly explained that it might take them a few days to get the answer.

"Are you really going to use your car?" Tatsuki asked, knowing that they would be the center of attention once the FC entered Kanagawa area.

"I thought we're going on a date," he grinned at his wife.

"But I don't want any special attention so can we use that car instead," she replied and pointed at the crystal white FC in her garage.

He held her waist and pulled her close to him before asking, "That car can draw even more attention than mine."

Tatsuki looked at him with confusion when she did not get what he meant. Ryosuke looked at the super shiny crystal white RX7 with pink cute evil bunnies' artwork. He could not believe that he would be driving this "artistic" car in his life. He began to wonder about her girly taste sometimes. He had no choice but to go with her decision when she put their belongings in the boot. She was smiling happily as she strapped in the pastel pink leather Recaro bucket racing seat. She was eager to see how he would react once he drove this car. Kaito had modified this car recently and she had not done any testing yet. She thought it would be good to have Ryosuke to test drive it.

Ryosuke looked at his passenger skeptically when he ignited the engine. He realized her intention to use this car. He would be very happy to drive it if it did not have such sweet interior design. She was a talented artist but this was not his style. He was very impressed with the car performance as he drove down the Akina. Whoever did the modifications was one of the experts, especially it was done to fit Tatsuki's driving style. What he did not know was this car was modified with latest ZR automotive parts with mountain racing specifications.

Tatsuki scrutinized at the upgraded interior that she requested. It was perfectly done according to her drawing which matched her exterior design. She asked her driver if she should open a car styling shop. Her question made him speechless. He felt that he had to get used to her artistic personality. He could not deny that her cars paintwork was very stylish and eye-catching. However, he was not a fan of such things.

"How much did you spend on this car?" Ryosuke asked when he saw the blink decor on the panels.

"My dad foots the bills," she giggled as she imagined her father's face when he saw the bills. Especially, the amount of Swarovski crystal that she used.

Ryosuke pinched her cheek gently when he saw her mischievous smile. He knew how much Bunta doted on his daughter. Tatsuki passed him a pink thermal mug of coffee. He looked at his attire and the interior of the car. He swore to himself that he would never use it again for life.

They stopped at Omotesando for breakfast. Tatsuki chose a chic cafe where she could enjoy the food and the cafe design. She heard Miyu's reviews of this cafe and had been longing to visit. Ryosuke was very impressed by her choice. This was their first date after their marriage. The barista helped them take a few photos. She even asked if she could take a picture of them and put it up on the wall. Tatsuki agreed with no hesitation.

Ryosuke planned to bring her to Hakone for lunch. They arrived in Hakone around late morning. He knew that she loved to visit museums so they started their date with the museum nearby. She was wearing a beige wide brim sun hat while walking with Ryosuke. He could see how relaxed and happy she was. She did not disguise herself as she usually did. They were just like any couple. As the autumn approached, the weather today was perfect for a date. They walked around in a cool breeze, enjoying their day together. He brought her to a Japanese restaurant for lunch. They were in a private room which featured a nice view of Japanese garden.

They went to Tsubaki Line late that afternoon. They were at the Daikanzan Observation Deck, watching sunset. There were no cars on the course while they were there. Ryosuke put on a cardigan over her shoulder as the temperature decreased. She looked down the course as there were cars coming up. They slowly pulled out of their parking spot and drove down the course. The locals began to speculate about the white RX7 that just drove past them. Some thought it was Project D's Ryosuke but the pink rabbit design told them otherwise. It was a very eye-catching piece of art, especially the deep pink GT wing at the back. They found an empty spot along the middle part of the course, watching the cars driving up and down. Their presence was attracting attention from their surroundings. Ryosuke was telling Tatsuki about those cars that they saw. They knew that they were not what they were looking for. Tatsuki was a little disappointed, but she insisted that they stayed for a while longer. She believed in her hunch that she would be able to see what she came up for.

Ryosuke pulled her closer as they leaned against the car. Tatsuki's eyes were fixed on the road as she anticipated her intuition. No one would recognize that this couple was the Project D team. The locals were looking at the two good looking pair. It was not a usual sight to see someone like them on this Pass. Tatsuki told Ryosuke when she saw the NSX drove past. She knew that car was Keisuke's opponent. But, where was hers? As they were preparing to leave, Tatsuki saw a white Trueno driving past her. Both of them knew that the downhill driver of the Sidewinder had appeared. Tatsuki asked if she could see that car again tomorrow. Ryosuke declined as he already had the information he needed. He told her that they should be having their proper date tomorrow. Tatsuki nodded obediently while her mind was still on that Trueno. She knew that her opponent was tough. Ryosuke straightened up when he saw the grey R32 stopped beside his car. Hojo Rin got out of the car which surprised everyone around him. He looked at the white FC in front of him, startled by the change in the car exterior paintwork. He then looked up at his kohai in pink shirt. Ryosuke had just given him a surprise attack.

"What are you doing up here, Ryosuke?" Rin asked as his eyes were fixing at the girl in Ryosuke's arms.

"As you can see, I'm just hanging out with my wife," Ryosuke replied with a smile and squeezed Tatsuki's hand.

"Hi, I'm Fujiwara Tatsuki. Nice to meet you," Tatsuki said with a small smile.

"We're leaving. Would you like to join us for dinner, Sempai?" Ryosuke invited the long-hair man.

"Is this your car?" Rin asked.

"Her car but I'm the driver," Ryosuke replied, shaking his head. He knew how others perceived him.

"Let's go. This is not the place for chatting," Tatsuki urged the guys as she got into the car.

The white FC and the grey R32 were racing down the course, heading to Gotemba area. Rin led them to a pub and restaurant not far from the Tsubaki Line. They got a table at a quiet corner of the restaurant. This was the first time Rin saw how Tatsuki looked like. She had nothing resembling Kaori. This girl had a very sweet and radiant smile that could melt anyone's heart. She had a perfect proportionate face feature that captivated everyone's attention. He looked at how Ryosuke attended to his wife, proving that the younger man had moved on and led a good life. Tatsuki was listening to the live band as the guys were talking to each other. Rin was curious how they got together, especially when they were married. Ryosuke sighed as he just realized how impulsive he was at that point of time. Her tears were his weakness. Tatsuki walked out of the restaurant to make a call. They had not booked any hotel rooms for tonight. She wanted to go to the Ryokan where she could enjoy the en-suite onsen. Ryosuke had been looking at the entrance while talking to Rin. Rin never seen his kohai behaved like this before. Ryosuke was more reserved with Kaori. This young man had changed a lot, especially when his wife was around. Ryosuke had no explanation for his behavior as he also did not know why himself. The only thing he knew was that he could not live without her. Tatsuki came back after she managed to get a suite in a Ryokan. She sat down beside Ryosuke and wrapped her arms around his arm. He knew that she was happy. Rin suddenly felt that he was in a wrong place. The pair was so lovey-dovey without caring for his feelings. They left after some time. Rin was heading home while the couple were going to a Ryokan in Hakone Yumoto area.

Tatsuki drew the curtain close before she stepped into the en-suite onsen. She sat down at the shower area, cleaning herself before getting into the onsen bath. Ryosuke knew that she was still shy to be naked in front of him. He went into the attached bathroom for a hot shower. He looked at the girl in the big wooden tub, overlooking the view of mountain. He turned around when she was about to get up. He waited for her on the bed as she exited in a yukata. She gave him a kiss and urged him to try the onsen. She watched him walk over while she slipped under the blanket. She fell asleep without waiting for him. Ryosuke cuddled her up in his arms as he fell asleep.

Tatsuki woke up in Ryosuke's arms with their faces just a breath away. She smiled while her finger was lacing along his high nose bridge. She loved his sleeping face. He looked so calm and undangerous. She grasped when Ryosuke kissed her suddenly. His hands were roaming over her back, pulling her closer.

"No mark, please," she mumbled softly as he kissed her earlobe.

Her fingers dug into his skin as he licked the left helix where their vow was. Her soft cry was so affectionate that almost made him lose his control. He could not wait until he made her his. He pulled his kisses away and sat up. The girl in his arms was blushing from head to toe.

"This is one of the best wakes up kisses I've ever had. I love you, Tsuki-Chan," he whispered in her ear which embarrassed her.

Tatsuki was ready to find a place to bury herself. She was just blissed out by his confession, though she was feeling so shy about what they were doing. He looked down at her, liking the view he saw. He slowly pulled her yukata together after he was done with his admiration. Tatsuki ran into the bathroom with Ryosuke was chuckling at her reaction.

Tatsuki was in a white puff sleeve cropped blouse and a pair of light denim shorts. She prepared a white shirt and a pair of jeans for Ryosuke. They left the Ryokan after a hearty breakfast. Ryosuke brought her to Disney Sea for their date. He knew from Bunta that she loved amusement park. He could not remember when was the last time he visited such place. This was his first time going there with his wife. Tatsuki wore her beige wide brim sun hat as she exited the car. She was delighted that she could try all the rides in this park. Ryosuke was very cooperative. He was contented to see her enjoying herself. They were just behaving like normal love couple without being recognized by the people around them. They stayed until the fireworks were over before they got back to their penthouse. He gave her a hot and passionate kiss before sleeping.

They got back in Akina the next morning. Tatsuki went into her work room immediately. Ryosuke was sitting at the porch, working on his driving simulation. They were both busy with their own things after this short break. Tatsuki brought Ryosuke to her favorite restaurant on Akina for lunch. They then returned to their work after that. Tatsuki recorded two new songs before she sat on the sofa, drawing. She looked at the clock, 5:00PM. She changed into her workout outfit and went out for a jog. Ryosuke joined her shortly after. They were running around the Lake Akina. They quickly changed after running and left the warehouse to have their dinner with Bunta. Bunta had already prepared their dinner, Sukiyaki. He could feel that his daughter was having a good time with Ryosuke. Ryosuke went home after dinner while Tatsuki was doing her practice at Akina.

Keisuke walked into Ryosuke's bedroom when he saw the lights from the room. His brother had not come home for a few days and no one knew his whereabouts. He found that Ryosuke was getting more mysterious as the day went by. He could hardly see him at home nowadays. Ryosuke got out of the bathroom and saw Keisuke sitting on his bed. He asked his younger brother about his practice. He had some talks with Keisuke on his opponent.

At Mt. Akina, the panda Hachi-Roku was racing down the pass as if she was chasing another car. Tatsuki was practicing the god arm technique. Unknowingly, she did not know that she had perfecting her technique that Ryosuke called "Fujiwara Zone". The final battle was approaching and she knew that she must win this battle. After seeing that Trueno on Tsubaki Line, she had a question in her head. She sat down with her father, asking about how to pass the corner without braking. Bunta looked at his daughter when he heard an interesting question. He told her that she could try on Akina. However, it would be difficult on other course as it required a full knowledge of that particular pass. Tatsuki gave her father a hug before she went to bed.

At last, the Project D final battle had begun. The convoy led by the yellow FD had arrived at Daikanzan Observation Deck. Tatsuki got out of the car and began her warmup while Matsumoto was working on her car. The practice session began with the FD and the Hachi-Roku running on the course. Both drivers were concentrating on their respective practice sessions until the sunrise. Tatsuki led the team to her house in Hakone. She slumped into her bed immediately after a quick shower. She did not come down for breakfast. Ryosuke was concerned about her but he could not just go inside her room. He told Keisuke to get a good rest before their battle tonight. He returned to the room after the meal.

Tatsuki woke up at her usual time and went out to inspect the course. Although she had been on this course multiple times, she still felt the importance of seeing the latest conditions. It did not change much compared to the survey she did last year for her music video production. She came back after spending two hours on the course. She had a long shower before putting on a white tee and a pair of jeans. She stood by her car after the dinner. She was talking to the car, her buddy. She had decided to race in this car for one last time. It was the time that she should be retired. Tatsuki knew that she was ready to move forward with a car of her choice. There was a kind of hint over the past few days that telling her this would be her last race with this Trueno.

"Let's win this final battle together," Tatsuki said to her car.

Ryosuke put his hand on her head. He knew that she had finally been able to detach herself from this car. He got into the passenger seat while she drove to their destination. The team thought that Ryosuke was doing some prep talks with the driver.

The battle started with the hill climb race. Keisuke introduced himself to Hojo Go. Hojo Rin was watching the battle as well. Ryosuke had nothing to say to Keisuke after their talks at home a few days ago. Keisuke knew what he should do. His "Fastest of the Public Road" theory was completed today. It was not easy to find a rare gem and polished, faceted it into the most beautiful diamond. To be the fastest driver in his theory, he or she must possess courage, fighting spirit, experience, sometimes the recklessness of youth and lastly, an additional factor... being chosen by God. In many of Tatsuki's cases, Ryosuke still could not explain how she managed to win those battles. He looked at the girl who was doing her warmup while waiting for uphill race to be done. Keisuke emerged as the winner after a long wait. Ryosuke gave his brother a tap on Keisuke's shoulder as a compliment before he walked over to another driver. Tatsuki looked at Inui Shinji, amazed at how young he was. This was the first time she was racing with someone younger than her. Shinji startled by her look, especially when she looked like his idol, Luna.

"He's tough so just do your best. Enjoy this race," he said as he put his head on her head.

Tatsuki nodded and got into her car. She knew this was a very difficult race. Shinji was just like her a year ago. He was an expert on this course, knowing every corner and turn like she did for Akina. She was given her best shot in this battle. As expected, Shinji's driving style did not only amaze her but was also clouded her ability when she wanted to duplicate him. However, she knew she should not do so, she then maintained her concentration on the course, keeping up with him. She was puzzled by his sudden slowdown and let her past him. The two Truenos were speeding down the road. Shinji was getting frustrated when he did not see what he expected to see. He intentionally knocking on her side as he overtook her in front of the Gunma's crowd. Tatsuki was a little annoyed by his actions. She had observed his driving style and patterns. She counterattacked him by using blind attack and overtaking Shinji. Shinji finally saw his imaginary wings and was began his fight again. Tatsuki was overtook again with the same move. She knew that she could not give up. She kept up with Shinji, racing with her blind attack technique. They were both racing side by side at the final corner. As Tatsuki made the lead, she turned on the headlights, bewildered at the needle ticking on 12,000rpm. She knew that her chance of winning was diminished as the engine blew right after they exited the corner. Her car spun 180-degrees while she pushed hard on the clutch while maneuvered it towards the finishing line, forcing the car to slide in reverse direction passed the final line. Shinji was caught by surprise and slowing down to avoid Tatsuki's car. Tatsuki passed the finish line first and was declared as the winner with crowds were cheering for this excited episode. Tatsuki got out of the car and thanked it as she tapped on its roof.

"Thank you for being with me all these years," she bowed to her car.

Everyone was shocked to see what she was doing at the car. Ryosuke raced down the pass to see her with the team. He already arranged a tow truck to standby for her. He stopped by her side, waiting for her to finish her farewell to her most important friend. Tatsuki brushed off her tears and gave Ryosuke a big smile when she won this last race. She walked over to Shinji with her CDs. She gave her autograph CDs to Shinji and thanked him for such a fun race. She greeted Shinji's mother and had a short chat with Hojo Go. The appearance of ZR top driver was a big surprise to everyone around the base of the pass.

"I bring the car back first," Kaito told Tatsuki. "Are you okay?"

"I'm good, don't worry. I see you at the workshop in the morning," she told Kaito.

"By the way, remember to drive my wife home safely and please take a good care of her," Kaito said and put the key in her hand.

Tatsuki looked at the white leather pouch containing Kaito's RX7 key. It reminded her of the memory of their first trip to the scrap yard where he found the car wreckage. She watched Kaito loaded her Trueno onto the tow truck with Masashi. Ryosuke told the team to wrap up. Keisuke was surprised when he saw her driving the white RX7. Ryosuke already sat in her car, waiting for her to leave. She knew that she could not stay longer as the crowd had recognized her. The white FD3S sped down the road and disappeared into the night. Ryosuke was not sure if she was fine as she portrayed herself. He placed his hand on her hand. Tatsuki told him that she was fine and she knew that she would blow up the engine tonight. She told him that she wanted to fix the car even though she had no intention to race in that car ever again.

To be Continued...