Chapter 30: The Boys' Proposal Mission (2)

August 15, 2019, Thursday

As the plane landed at New Chitose Airport, I took a deep breath of the crisp, unique air of Hokkaido, tinged with coolness and the scent of earth. The feeling instantly relaxed me. I turned to Momoko and said, "Take a deep breath – isn't the air here amazing?"

She squeezed my hand, her eyes full of anticipation, and at that moment, I felt a rush of happiness, knowing everything was falling perfectly into place.

We hopped into an old jeep, bumping along the road to the Shirakawa Ranch. When the vast fields, distant snow-capped mountains, and herds of grazing cows came into view, Momoko was left speechless, staring in awe at the magnificent scene.

I couldn't help but mutter, "It's really just a small ranch."

She immediately poked me lightly, giving me a playful glare. "Small ranch? Who are you trying to fool?" Her tone was a mix of astonishment and a hint of exasperation. I smiled awkwardly, "Well, a little humility never hurt anyone."

My adoptive parents, Kyo and Azusa, were already waiting for us at the ranch's entrance. As we got out of the car, Dad walked over with a hearty laugh and clapped me on the shoulder. "Yuzuhiko, we've been waiting ages for you to bring Momoko back home."

Mom quickly took Momoko's hand warmly. "Momoko, welcome to the Shirakawa Ranch! Don't listen to Yuzuhiko's nonsense – we're really just an ordinary couple."

Momoko smiled politely, though her eyes still sparkled with excitement. "Thank you. It's so nice to be here." Though she still seemed a little shy, I could see the delight in her eyes.

Dad looked at Momoko with a kind smile, "You're from Tokyo, right? A Hokkaido ranch might not be exactly what you imagined, but our place is just a simple farm. But if you like it, treat it as your own home." His words were humble, yet I knew he was trying to make Momoko feel at ease.

Inside, the table was laden with various Hokkaido specialties: fresh seafood rice bowls, crispy grilled crab, fried fish, and dishes made from ranch-produced ingredients. Momoko's face lit up in delight at the sight of the delicious spread. I couldn't help but say proudly, "Try it – this is what Shirakawa Ranch is all about."

Throughout dinner, my parents asked us about our recent lives. Dad, with a knowing look, said, "Yuzuhiko, bringing Momoko back to meet the family is a big step.

When we took you in from the orphanage, we never thought this day would come. Don't let us down, alright?" There was warmth and expectation in his words, which touched me deeply. Momoko seemed to catch the significance of his words, her cheeks flushing slightly as she looked down.

Mom chimed in with a laugh, "Momoko, never mind what he says; we genuinely like you. We hope you'll always stay by Yuzuhiko's side." Momoko's blush deepened, and she said, "Thank you, Auntie. I really love it here."

Dad turned to me with a meaningful look. "Yuzuhiko, don't keep us waiting too long. Back when you first arrived here, you promised me you'd let me hold a grandchild one day. I hope you remember that."

I laughed, shaking my head. "Dad, isn't that a bit rushed?" Dad laughed heartily before turning seriously to Momoko, "But we really want you by Yuzuhiko's side. Life is long, and having someone you trust by your side is essential. You should know that you're always welcome here."

Momoko seemed even more flustered by his words, but her warmth and joy shone through unmistakably.

After dinner, I took her for a walk around the ranch, and we strolled hand in hand across the grass, basking in the glow of the setting sun.

I asked her softly, "Do you like it here?"

She nodded, smiling, "It makes me feel free and warm." I squeezed her hand, "This is my home, and it can be yours too.

If you'd like, there will always be a place for you here." She looked at me with a radiant smile, and I knew our future would be filled with love and happiness.

Kyoto - Arashiyama

Kagami and Miyako returned to the grand Midou residence in Arashiyama.

Although she had visited with friends during high school and had seen this place that resembled an ancient palace, every time she stepped inside, she still found herself marveling, "This is a residence?" The endless gardens, five-story pagoda, and elegant Japanese architecture radiated a sense of profound history, leaving her in quiet awe.

This was her first official visit to meet Kagami's family. As they entered the main hall, Kagami respectfully greeted his family, "Father, Mother, sisters, I'm home." His tone was formal and serious, a side Miyako rarely saw, and it made her instinctively straighten up, her heartbeat quickening slightly.

Standing in the center of the main hall was Kennosuke, Kagami's foster father, exuding an air of authority. His famous kendo master's gaze shifted to Kagami and Miyako.

When he saw the girl by Kagami's side, he gave a slight nod and said calmly, "Kagami, this must be Miyako?"

Kagami nodded, a note of pride in his voice. "Yes, Father, this is Miyako." His earnest tone made Miyako blush slightly. She took a deep breath, stepped forward, and bowed deeply. "Hello, Mr. Kennosuke," she said, her voice sincere and slightly nervous.

Kennosuke nodded, his strict expression softening slightly. "Miyako, it's Kagami's fortune to have met you. If you become part of our family, we will treat you as our own daughter."

Miyako felt both surprised and honored by his words and raised her head, replying gratefully, "Thank you. I will cherish this kindness."

Kagami's foster mother, Tamaka, then stepped forward with a gentle smile, taking Miyako's hand warmly. "Miyako, Kagami has told us so much about you. Seeing you today, I can see you're as graceful and kind as he described.

We're very happy to welcome you." Her smile was kind and sincere, her elegance as a world-renowned fashion designer shining through, filling Miyako with admiration and warmth.

Miyako lowered her head, slightly shy, and said softly, "Thank you, Mrs. Tamaka… It truly means so much to be here."

Just then, Kagami's twin sisters, Hina and Tsukihime, approached, full of curiosity and welcome. Hina, with a playful grin, said teasingly, "Well, well, our little brother actually brought his girlfriend home – what a surprise!"

Tsukihime sighed in relief, her tone lighthearted, "We were worried Kagami might meet some trouble in Tokyo, but it seems our concerns were unnecessary." Hearing their words, Miyako blushed slightly and smiled shyly, replying, "Thank you, sisters."

She had briefly encountered Hina and Tsukihime during Milano Fashion Week, where they'd warmly introduced themselves, displaying a distinctively protective "younger brother obsession" toward Kagami. Their affection and care reassured Miyako, making her feel more connected to Kagami's world.

Watching Miyako with his family, Kagami smiled softly and, squeezing her hand gently, whispered, "Don't be nervous. You're doing great."

Miyako felt her heart skip a beat at his words, meeting his gaze with a warm smile that reflected her deepening attachment to him.

Nagoya, Aichi

As Kaoru and Shigeru arrived at the Michelin-starred "Yohkaku" ryoutei in Nagoya, she found herself marveling again at the refined, stately atmosphere. The black-tiled roof and white walls were partially hidden behind a bamboo grove, with a modest lantern bearing the name "Yohkaku," exuding a sense of quiet elegance.

She whispered, half-jokingly, "Shigeru, this hardly looks like a 'small restaurant.' Who are you kidding?"

Shigeru laughed awkwardly, "I didn't want you to feel nervous."

As they stepped inside, the ryoutei was bustling with activity, the kitchen and main dining hall filled with the precise, rhythmic movements of chefs in traditional uniforms. Standing at the center, calmly directing the staff, was Shigeru's mother, Yoh, embodying a master chef's presence with her focus and graceful movements.

Kaoru immediately stepped forward, cheerfully offering, "Ms. Yoh, we're here to help! Let us know if there's anything we can do."

Yoh, initially surprised, smiled and replied, "Well, I'd certainly appreciate it! With you two helping, everything will run more smoothly." Shigeru gave a confident nod. "We're ready!"

Kaoru and Shigeru quickly donned aprons and seamlessly divided tasks. Shigeru handled the ingredients with impressive skill, slicing, plating, and seasoning with precision, while Kaoru moved in perfect sync with him, organizing and serving dishes with her usual confidence.

"Kaoru, please take the grilled fish to the Sakura room and the sashimi platter to the Kiku room!" Shigeru instructed. Kaoru grinned, grabbing the plates with ease. "On it!" She moved gracefully through the restaurant, her natural charm evident as she interacted with guests.

In the busy kitchen, Kaoru was right at home, occasionally exchanging playful banter with Yoh, who appreciated her energy. As the dinner rush wound down, Yoh wiped her brow, saying gratefully, "Thank you both so much for all your hard work today."

Kaoru laughed heartily, replying, "It was a blast helping out!" Yoh gently patted her on the shoulder, clearly impressed. "Kaoru, you're as lively as Shigeru described. You're wonderful."

Kaoru blushed, scratching her head shyly but beaming with pride. "I'll have to thank Shigeru for the glowing endorsement!"

Yoh smiled warmly, with a hint of anticipation in her voice. "Actually, I've had a small wish for a while. As one of the restaurants serving the imperial family, I'd be honored to host your future wedding here. I've even thought up a special menu for the occasion."

Kaoru's eyes widened with joy as she glanced at Shigeru, feeling a surge of happiness. "Really? That would be amazing!"

Yoh watched them with a mother's satisfaction. "Kaoru, this isn't just a ryoutei. It's Shigeru's home, and if you're willing, it can be your home too."

Shigeru gently took Kaoru's hand, his voice full of affection. "I want you to see this as your home, too."

August 16, 2019, Friday

Early the next morning, I took Momoko to the Shirakawa Ranch. She looked around like a child, her eyes full of excitement and curiosity.

The air here was fresh, the sky bright blue, filled with the essence of nature. I smiled and said, "Today, I'll let you experience life on a ranch to the fullest!"

"Momoko, do you want to feed the cows first or check out the alpacas?" I asked, trying to guess her preference.

"Let's feed the cows first!" she answered excitedly.

I led her to the cowshed, teaching her how to milk the cows and feed them. She was a bit nervous at first, but looking into the gentle eyes of the cows, she quickly relaxed and managed to fill a whole bucket with fresh milk. She grinned proudly, "This is so much fun; it feels really rewarding!"

Next, we moved to the cream-making area, where I showed her how fresh milk was turned into cream. Her eyes sparkled with curiosity, and she even offered to use the fresh ingredients to make some desserts. She prepared two special treats: cream pastries with yuzu pulp and milk pudding infused with peach aroma.

When the desserts were ready, my foster parents couldn't help but try them first.

"Momoko, this is amazing! The yuzu adds such a rich flavor!" my dad exclaimed, visibly delighted. My mom nodded approvingly, "The pudding is so smooth and delicate. You really have a talent!" Momoko blushed but still smiled proudly, "It's all thanks to the fresh ingredients! I'm glad you like it!"

Afterward, we visited the sheep pen, chicken coop, and fox garden, where Momoko joyfully fed the little sheep and foxes, laughing heartily. "They're all so cute! Especially these foxes; they look just like little furry spirits!"

When we reached the alpaca area, Momoko's eyes lit up, "Wow! Alpacas! Can I pet them?" I chuckled and reminded her, "Of course, but be careful; they sometimes spit!"

She carefully reached out to pet an alpaca, and it playfully snorted, making her laugh uncontrollably, "They're so mischievous!"

Finally, we arrived near the bear enclosure. Just then, a little girl accidentally dropped her mother's wallet into the bear pen and cried out, "Mom, the wallet fell in!" Seeing this, Momoko immediately grabbed my hand, "Yuzuhiko, the wallet fell into the bear pen! Can we help?"

I looked at the two lazy brown bears, recalling my childhood days on the ranch and how I'd interacted with them. I reassured her with a smile, "Don't worry, I know these bears well. They won't harm me."

She looked at me in astonishment, "What? I was only joking when I said you were familiar with even the bears, but it's actually true!"

Before she could say more, I jumped into the bear pen. The two bears glanced up at me, recognized me, and lazily laid back down. I walked over, picked up the wallet, and patted one of the bears on its back, whispering, "Long time no see, old buddy."

Momoko watched in awe, muttering under her breath, "Yuzuhiko, you're so close to the bears that you can even spar with them. This is insane!" I burst into laughter, ruffling her hair, "What did you think the title 'The Fighting God' was for?"

She sighed, a mix of pride and amusement in her smile, "You really are a crazy guy. I'm falling more in love with your 'legendary feats'." She then held my hand with a face full of pride.

Finally, we leisurely rode horses across the ranch, surrounded by tranquility, with only the sounds of the wind and animals. Softly, Momoko asked, "Yuzuhiko, this place is truly beautiful. Can I come here often?"

I held her hand tighter, answering sincerely, "Of course, this will always be your home." She smiled warmly and contentedly. In that moment, our connection and love deepened.

Kyoto, Arashiyama

At the Midou family residence in Arashiyama, today was a day of traditional cultural experiences for Miyako. Tamaka, Hina, and Tsukihime enthusiastically arranged a series of activities to let her fully immerse herself in the cultural heritage of the Midou family.

First, Hina invited her with a smile, "Miyako-chan, we're about to start practicing Japanese dance. If you're interested, come join us. I'm really looking forward to seeing your talent!"

Tsukihime also smiled and agreed, "Our family places great importance on cultural refinement, especially women's etiquette. I'm sure your dance will be beautiful; we can't wait to see it!"

Slightly shy, Miyako nodded and changed into a gorgeous kimono, feeling both excited and a bit nervous. With Tamaka's careful guidance, she learned each dance step, her movements elegant and delicate. Although it was her first time performing dance in such a formal setting, her steady steps and focused expression drew praise from Tamaka, "Miyako, you have a real talent; your movements are graceful and natural!"

Miyako smiled modestly, "Thank you for your encouragement. I practice simple steps at home occasionally, but I still have much to learn." Her response, sincere and humble as always, conveyed her genuine desire to integrate and learn.

Next, Hina took her to the archery range and began teaching her the correct way to hold the bow, draw the string, and position herself. Miyako listened intently, meticulously imitating Hina's actions with a determined expression.

When she pulled back the bowstring, focused, and aimed, she hit the target dead center, prompting Hina to exclaim, "Miyako, you're a genius! To hit the bullseye on your first shot is amazing!"

Tsukihime laughed happily beside her, saying, "Not only are you great at dancing, but you're also brilliant at archery. Kagami is really lucky!" Miyako blushed slightly, smiling confidently and playfully responding, "That was just luck! But I'll work hard to make it a real skill."

They then moved to the naginata practice area, where Tsukihime taught her some advanced moves. Miyako wielded the naginata with agility and strength, prompting Tsukihime to exclaim, "Miyako, you're learning so quickly! Soon we can have a proper sparring match."

In the afternoon, Miyako and Tamaka discussed fashion design concepts together. Tamaka shared insights on integrating traditional Japanese culture into modern designs, and Miyako listened attentively, occasionally sharing her ideas with an enthusiastic sparkle in her eyes. Tamaka's warm smile reflected her growing affection for this future family member.

After a full day, Hina and Tsukihime's fondness for Miyako deepened, and they began to regard her as a true sister, affectionately calling her "our little sister" and showing their care and affection openly.

In the grand Midou residence in Arashiyama, Hina and Tsukihime excitedly invited Miyako to watch Kagami's sparring match with Kennosuke. Miyako, feeling both anticipation and a hint of unease, nodded in agreement.

When they entered the dojo and saw Kagami and Kennosuke standing in the center, Miyako's gaze was instantly captivated. The dojo was solemn, with

Kagami and Kennosuke standing in their martial attire, barefoot in straw sandals, each holding a katana that gleamed with a cold light, without any protective gear. This sight took Miyako by surprise; she couldn't hide her concern, her eyes slightly widening with worry.

At that moment, Kennosuke sternly said to Kagami, "Come at me with the resolve to kill."

Miyako instinctively held her breath, feeling a surge of tension in her heart. She softly asked Hina and Tsukihime beside her, "Using real swords... Is that really okay?" Her voice was filled with worry, her eyes showing slight tremors.

Hina smiled, reassuring her, "Don't worry, Miyako, this is just a long-awaited father-son sparring. Father knows Kagami's abilities." Tsukihime added with a smile, "Exactly, for Kagami, this is as routine as it gets."

Though reassured by her sisters-in-law, Miyako still felt a bit tense inside but nodded gently, her gaze focused intently on Kagami.

With Kagami's swift strike, the real sword duel began.

The gleaming blades flashed across the dojo, their sharp clashes echoing crisply and powerfully. Miyako found herself unable to keep up with their speed, seeing only the intertwining sword glints and tatami mats being repeatedly slashed apart. Kagami and Kennosuke moved rapidly with Shukuchi technique, their swordsmanship sweeping through the dojo like a storm.

Tamaka sighed softly beside them, commenting, "We'll need to replace the tatami again…"

At this moment, Kagami launched a series of attacks, swinging his katana in nine directions in rapid succession—vertical, diagonal, reverse diagonal, left and right horizontal cuts, upward left and right slashes, reverse wind, and thrusts. Miyako held her breath, watching Kagami's moves with awe and concern.

However, Kennosuke responded with an exceptionally fast draw technique, deflecting all nine strikes in an instant. After the flurry of sword flashes, Miyako was shocked to see Kagami's katana blade broken, the severed piece lodged in the tatami mat.

Kagami lowered his head slightly, respectfully saying, "Father, I lost."

Kennosuke smiled faintly, a rare departure from his stern demeanor, lifting his own katana, which was covered in cracks, and said, "It's more of a tie. It's clear you haven't neglected your training these past years, which reassures me."

Witnessing the duel, Miyako felt immense admiration and secretly smiled to herself, "Kagami's world is truly unimaginable..."

Aichi, Nagoya

At the Michelin three-star restaurant "Yohkaku" in Nagoya, Yoh specially invited Kaoru into the kitchen on this day, as the restaurant was closed, to teach her a special dish — unagi tamago (eel egg). Naturally, Kaoru was overjoyed, as this was her favorite dish. Although she could cook, she rarely had the chance to cook in their shared home, so she looked forward to this rare experience.

Yoh smiled and said, "Kaoru, let's make your favorite eel egg today. I'll guide you step-by-step; the key is the heat."

Kaoru nodded, laughing eagerly, "Great! Though I don't cook often, don't worry; I'll learn it just fine!"

"Kaoru, try this step first; mastering the heat is crucial," Yoh instructed her gently, her voice encouraging.

Kaoru listened carefully to Yoh's guidance, focused on each step. At first, her movements were a bit clumsy, but with Yoh's patience, she gradually mastered the heat and technique, becoming more comfortable.

After a while, she finally completed the eel egg. Yoh took a bite, a delighted expression spreading across her face. "Kaoru, you're really amazing! You have a real knack for cooking."

Just then, Shigeru walked in from the doorway, smiling proudly as he witnessed the scene. He laughed, "Wow, Kaoru, you earned my mother's high praise! That doesn't happen often!"

Kaoru chuckled, playfully hitting Shigeru on the arm. "Don't tease me!"

Yoh laughed softly, "Kaoru, you can call me 'Mom.' You're such a wonderful girl."

Kaoru paused in surprise before laughing heartily. "Then I won't hold back, Mom!" Yoh nodded approvingly and said with admiration, "Not only do you have cooking talent, but your character is wonderful too. Knowing Shigeru has someone like you by his side puts me at ease."

Shigeru moved closer to Kaoru, smiling mischievously, "It seems that our wedding will not only have the best dishes but also the best chef supporting it."

Kaoru pretended to be annoyed, gently pushing him away, but her smile grew wider, "Stop it! I didn't marry you just to be a chef."

Yoh watched them with a motherly smile, remarking, "I'm truly relieved. Having such a wonderful girl with Shigeru means this guy won't slack off in the future."

Shigeru interjected playfully, "Mother, when have I ever slacked off? I've always been serious!"

Kaoru laughed heartily, nodding in agreement with Yoh, "Don't worry, Mom, I'll keep an eye on him and make sure he doesn't slack off!"

Yoh patted Kaoru's shoulder approvingly, saying, "Kaoru, you're really special. You'll help Shigeru grow and bring warmth and harmony to our family."

Kaoru looked at Yoh, her eyes filled with gratitude, replying softly, "Thank you, Mom. I'll take good care of Shigeru and will do my best to integrate into this family."

Shigeru watched them with warmth, feeling the family bond strengthening with Kaoru's acceptance. In that moment, he knew Kaoru had truly become a part of his family.

Hokkaido, Sapporo

As night fell, our entire family gathered for a special family dinner at Shirakawa Ranch in Hokkaido. A large table was filled with an abundance of Hokkaido delicacies—salmon, crab, roasted lamb, potato stew, as well as cheese and ice cream made from freshly-milked ranch dairy. It was a true feast.

"These are all Hokkaido specialties, Momoko. Give them a try," I said, placing a freshly grilled piece of salmon on her plate.

Momoko smiled appreciatively and said, "Thank you, Yuzuhiko. The ingredients here are so fresh; the flavors are incredible."

Mom smiled warmly at her, saying, "If you like, you're welcome to come to the ranch often, and I can teach you how to prepare these dishes."

Momoko, a bit shy, responded, "Thank you so much, Aunt Azusa."

Dad also joined in, laughing, "You young folks should come here more often. The air here is great, and it's quiet—perfect for relaxing."

Momoko nodded, her face filled with happiness. I could tell she loved the atmosphere here. The dinner was warm and joyful, with my father's jokes keeping everyone laughing and lively. Momoko looked at our family with a soft, contented gaze, as if experiencing a familial warmth she hadn't felt before.

Just then, Mom turned to me with a playful smile and half-jokingly asked, "Yuzuhiko, I hear you have something important planned recently. Does it have something to do with Momoko?"

I nearly choked on my miso soup, startled by how well Mom could read me! I quickly composed myself, smiling as I replied, "Well… maybe. You know I always have lots of plans."

Momoko looked at me curiously, as though sensing something, but she laughed, keeping the atmosphere light and cheerful.

Internally, I couldn't help but marvel at how well my mom knew me. It was clear she'd already sensed my plan to propose to Momoko. In that moment,

I was even more certain that this family gathering would be unforgettable and would mark the beginning of something wonderful.

Kyoto, Arashiyama

At the Midou family home, Kagami and Miyako were enjoying a traditional Japanese dinner with his family. His foster mother, Tamaka, had personally prepared a kaiseki meal, with each dish elegantly plated, capturing the essence of Kyoto's cuisine.

"Miyako, try these dishes—they're traditional Kyoto kaiseki," Tamaka said gently.

Miyako nodded, savoring the exquisite flavors. "These dishes are absolutely delicious, Mrs. Tamaka. I truly admire your skill."

From the side, Hina laughed, "Miyako, make sure you keep an eye on Kagami. Ever since he got here, he's been a little troublemaker. Don't let him run wild."

Tsukihime added, "Yes, and if you let him mistreat you, we won't let him off the hook."

Kagami raised his hands in surrender, "I haven't done anything. You can ask Miyako!"

Miyako smiled as she looked at Kagami and his family, feeling a warmth in her heart. Though the family appeared strict, they were full of love and care. "Don't worry, I'll take good care of him," she replied with a smile.

Tamaka also smiled and then asked, "Miyako, have you settled in well here? Is there anything you're not used to?"

Miyako shook her head slightly, "Everything here is wonderful; it feels so warm and welcoming."

Hearing her response, Tamaka's smile grew, and Kagami discreetly let out a sigh of relief, happy to see Miyako fitting into his family.

This dinner was filled with light-hearted banter and familial affection, giving Miyako a profound sense of belonging.

At Yohkaku in Nagoya, Kaoru, Shigeru, and his foster mother, Yoh, were savoring each meticulously prepared dish. Yoh was a renowned chef, and each dish at dinner was like a work of art—exquisite and delicious. It was Kaoru's first time tasting authentic Japanese cuisine like this, and her face showed her delight.

"These dishes are absolutely delicious, Mrs. Yoh. Your skill is truly unparalleled," Kaoru said sincerely.

Yoh smiled and replied, "Thank you, Kaoru. But the eel egg you made today was quite good as well. You have plenty of room to improve."

Shigeru, grinning, added, "I'm lucky to enjoy both my mother's cooking and Kaoru's new dish."

Kaoru playfully hit Shigeru on the arm, laughing, "Stop teasing me!"

The dinner continued with Yoh sharing some culinary tips with Kaoru, while Shigeru lightened the atmosphere with his jokes. Watching them interact, Yoh felt gratified. "Kaoru, if you wish, this is your home. I'll treat you just like Shigeru," she said warmly.

Kaoru, moved, nodded, "Thank you, Mrs. Yoh. I really love it here."

Yoh smiled contentedly, and Shigeru beamed happily beside her. Their bond grew closer.

After dinner, my heart began to race. Tonight, I was finally ready to say what I'd longed to. I took Momoko's hand, saying, "Momoko, come with me. I have something I want to tell you."

She looked at me with curiosity and anticipation. "How mysterious! Alright, let's go."

I smiled, leading her down a path across the ranch, toward a distant field. The night sky was like a deep canvas, stars glistening as if witnessing a significant moment. Step by step, we walked to the open field, away from artificial lights, with only the vast expanse of stars above and the soft whisper of the grass in the breeze.

Momoko looked up at the stars, murmuring, "The stars here are so beautiful…"

Taking a deep breath, I felt the moment had finally come. Gently holding her hand, I let her face me. "Momoko, I brought you here because I have something very important to ask you."

She looked at me, a spark of expectation and curiosity in her eyes. "Yuzuhiko, could it be…?"

I couldn't help laughing, interrupting her. "Bingo, you guessed it~ Here's your prize!"

I took out a Powerpuff Girls Z ring with a heart-shaped six-carat pigeon blood ruby, sparkling brilliantly under the starlight. Looking into her eyes, I said, "Momoko, I know without a doubt that you are the most important person in my life. No matter how many challenges we face, I'm certain you're the one I want to be with forever. Will you marry me?"

Momoko covered her mouth, her eyes shining with tears, brighter than the stars. Without a word, she jumped into my arms, hugging me tightly. That embrace held more meaning than any words could.

"You fool, did you even need to ask?" she whispered, her voice filled with love and emotion.

I laughed, feeling the weight lift from my heart. Slipping the ring onto her finger, I watched it gleam on her hand, as if it had always belonged there.

Under the starlit sky, we kissed, and at that moment, I felt an immense joy. Momoko was my sky, my future.

As we shared our engagement, I felt her hand gripping mine tightly. Our fingers intertwined, and I sensed the warmth of her palm, a warmth that made my heart race. The stars above shone brightly, while the breeze across the field seemed to applaud our love.

"Let's go inside and share the good news with the family," I said, smiling at Momoko.

She nodded, her smile both shy and excited. We walked back toward the house together, with the starlight and fields behind us, laying out a path filled with happiness. At that moment, I felt I had everything.

When we reached the doorway, I took a deep breath and squeezed her hand. "Are you ready?" I asked softly.

Momoko looked at me, her gaze filled with love and certainty. "Of course. I've been ready all along."

Smiling, I opened the door. The warm, gentle light in the house created a cozy atmosphere. My parents were chatting in the living room. When they saw us enter, they paused and turned to us.

"Huh? You're back so late?" Mom asked, her gaze filled with gentle curiosity.

I didn't answer immediately; instead, I squeezed Momoko's hand, and we shared a look. Pulling Momoko closer to me, I held her hands and said to my parents, "Mom, Dad, we have some good news."

Dad raised an eyebrow, as though he already knew, but he asked calmly, "What news?"

Taking a deep breath, I smiled confidently. "Momoko and I got engaged tonight on the field. She said yes!"

Mom's eyes immediately sparkled. "Really? That's wonderful!" She set her cup down and got up, holding Momoko's hands warmly.

"Momoko, welcome to the family! You don't know how long I've been waiting for this day!"

Dad smiled too, a rare sight, and came over to me, patting my shoulder. "Well done, son. Momoko is a wonderful girl. You better cherish her."

I nodded, my gaze earnest. "I will, Dad. I know how important Momoko is to me. I'll take care of her."

Momoko, visibly moved by the family's warmth, softly said, "Thank you, Uncle, Aunt… thank you for accepting me."

Mom smiled. "It's 'Mom and Dad' now. From the moment we met, we knew you were part of this family."

Gently squeezing her hand, I felt her palm grow warmer. Our eyes met, and I sensed a shared contentment and happiness. Right then, I made a silent vow to love and protect her, to make her the happiest woman in the world.

Just then, Mom turned to me, as if suddenly remembering something, and asked, "By the way, Yuzuhiko, did you tell your two brothers about this big news?"

I couldn't help but laugh. "Mom, you know Kagami and Shigeru already had plans of their own. Right now, I bet they're just like us, sharing the good news with their families."

Dad laughed heartily. "So, you three brothers have pulled off something big! Well done."

I nodded, feeling a sense of pride. The three of us had been through so much together, and now, we had each found our happiness. It was a wonderful feeling.

"Alright, you two get some rest tonight. Tomorrow, we'll celebrate this properly," Mom said with a smile.

"Thank you, Mom and Dad," I said gratefully.

Momoko added softly, "Thank you, Mom and Dad~~"

As the night drew to a close, it felt like our future was finally beginning. Holding Momoko's hand in mine, I felt a contentment I'd never known before. She was my everything, and I silently vowed never to let go of her hand.

"Kyoto, Arashiyama - Togetsukyo Bridge"

At the same time, Kagami was walking with Miyako on the Togetsukyo Bridge in Arashiyama.

Under the night sky, the bridge looked especially beautiful, with the soft lights reflecting on the flowing river, creating a dreamy, timeless atmosphere.

Walking on the bridge, Miyako asked Kagami curiously, "Why did you bring me here? It feels so mysterious."

Kagami smiled slightly, his voice carrying a hint of mystery. "Miyako, I hope this place becomes a special memory just for us."

They walked to the center of the bridge, where Kagami stopped and turned to face her. He took out a Powerpuff Girls Z ring, set with a deep blue cornflower sapphire, the color even more captivating under the moonlight. Miyako's heart started to race as she gazed at the perfectly cut, round sapphire, her mind filled with thoughts.

"Kagami, you're not…?" she asked, a hint of surprise in her voice.

Kagami grinned, nodding goofily. "Yes, Miyako, I want to ask you… will you marry me?"

Miyako choked up, tears welling in her eyes as she covered her mouth, holding back the overwhelming emotions. "I… I will!" she nearly shouted, then threw herself into his arms as tears streamed down her cheeks.

Kagami gently slid the ring onto her finger, then held her tightly. Their embrace in the moonlit night felt destined.

"Miyako, I promise to protect you and make you happy for the rest of my life," he said softly.

Miyako nodded, her eyes brimming with tears of happiness. "I believe in you, Kagami. We'll always be together."

They shared that unforgettable moment on the Togetsukyo Bridge, as the sounds of the river and the glow of the moonlight composed the most beautiful song for their love.

Having proposed successfully, Kagami felt an immense sense of relief. Holding Miyako's hand, their fingers intertwined, and a gentle summer night breeze brushed over them, making the evening all the more perfect. The bridge's lights and the river's reflection seemed to bear witness to their vow of love.

"Miyako, let's go tell Father and Mother the good news," Kagami said, smiling at her.

Miyako nodded, a soft blush on her face as she gently tightened her hold on Kagami's hand. "Alright, let's go together."

Riding a horse, they returned to the grand Midou family mansion. The majestic and historic residence was serene and dignified, with every path and garden exuding an ancient elegance. The softly swaying lanterns lit their path forward.

As Kagami and Miyako entered the main hall, they saw Kennosuke and Tamaka conversing. Kennosuke sat with his usual composure and seriousness, while Tamaka was holding an ancient book, explaining something to him.

Seeing Kagami and Miyako return, Tamaka looked up first and smiled gently. "Kagami, Miyako, you're back. It's late. Did something happen?"

Kagami slowly pulled Miyako to his side, took a deep breath, and then bowed respectfully. "Father, Mother, I have something important to tell you."

Kennosuke set down his teacup, his sharp gaze fixed on Kagami, as if he'd already guessed something. "Oh? Go on, what is it?"

Kagami tightened his grip on Miyako's hand, his expression serious yet filled with determination. "Tonight, I proposed to Miyako on the Togetsukyo Bridge, and she accepted."

Tamaka's eyes lit up with joy, a warm smile spreading across her face. "Really? That's wonderful news! Miyako, we've always thought of you as part of our family."

Miyako nodded slightly, smiling. "Thank you, Mother. Your love and support have always made me feel so warm."

Kennosuke was silent for a moment before he spoke. "Kagami, are you sure about such an important decision?"

Kagami nodded firmly, his gaze unwavering. "Yes, Father, I've thought it through. I love Miyako and want to spend my life with her."

Kennosuke nodded slightly, his stern expression finally softening. "Very well, since you've made this decision, I support you. Miyako, you are intelligent and strong. I trust you'll be the best partner for Kagami."

Miyako, touched by his words, blinked back tears as she bowed deeply. "Thank you, Father. I'll work hard with Kagami to be a daughter-in-law you can be proud of."

At this moment, Hina and Tsukihime, who had been eavesdropping, finally stepped forward. Sharing a look, they cheerfully exclaimed, "This is wonderful! Miyako, you're finally going to be our sister! We've been waiting for this!"

Hina hugged Miyako and laughed. "You're our perfect little sister. From the start, we knew you were the best for Kagami!"

Tsukihime playfully raised her bow, half-jokingly threatening Kagami. "If you dare let Miyako down, we won't hesitate to turn you into a hedgehog

, Kagami!"

Kagami could only smile helplessly. "I wouldn't dare let Miyako down."

Tamaka watched them with a loving smile. "Alright, let's celebrate this wonderful news tonight."

Kennosuke nodded approvingly. "Yes, this is certainly a moment worth celebrating."

Miyako gently tugged on Kagami's sleeve, whispering, "I'm so happy, Kagami. Thank you."

Looking at her, Kagami's eyes were filled with warmth. "No, Miyako, I should thank you. You've always been the best for me. Thank you for becoming my wife."

That night, the Midou mansion was filled with warmth and joy as the family celebrated the new couple. Supported and blessed by this close-knit family, Kagami and Miyako felt an immense happiness and comfort like never before.

"Nagoya Port, Seaside"

In the dim evening light at Nagoya Port, Shigeru and Kaoru's silhouettes stretched long, illuminated by the port's flickering lights. The gentle waves lapped against the shore, carrying a cool ocean breeze.

Holding Kaoru's hand tightly, their fingers interlocked, they felt each other's heartbeat growing clearer in the quiet night.

"Do you know why I brought you here?" Shigeru's voice was low and gentle as he gazed at Kaoru with a mix of anticipation and nervousness.

Kaoru looked over at him, his handsome face tinged with a hint of unease. She smiled slightly, "I have a guess. This place really is beautiful."

Shigeru nodded and led her to the spot with the widest view, then stopped. Looking into her eyes, he took a deep breath, as if suppressing his inner tension.

"Kaoru, ever since I met you, my life has become so much more colorful. Your resilience, courage, and dedication to the future deeply attract me. I know I'm not always gentle, and I'm not always considerate; I often upset you, but I want to change and be someone worthy of you." Shigeru's tone was sincere and determined.

He pulled out a meticulously prepared Powerpuff Girls Z ring from his pocket. The ring's centerpiece was a six-carat star-shaped emerald, shining with a mesmerizing light under the moon. "Kaoru, will you marry me? Be my wife, and walk together with me through every path ahead?"

Kaoru froze for a moment, completely caught off guard by Shigeru's proposal in such a romantic setting. Her eyes gradually welled up, and her lips quivered. Shigeru, with his rebellious charm, always managed to make her feel safe at the most crucial moments.

She pressed her lips together, smiled, and wiped away her tears with the back of her hand. "You really are full of surprises, aren't you?"

Then she extended her hand, letting him slide the ring on her finger, and hugged him tightly. "Yes, I will."

Shigeru beamed with joy, holding her tightly as he whispered, "Thank you, Kaoru. I'll be good to you for the rest of my life. No matter what happens, I'll always be by your side."

Kaoru chuckled, her voice carrying a hint of her usual sass, "Don't disappoint me… idiot…"

In each other's embrace, they stood by the Nagoya portside, feeling as if the whole world had quieted and warmed in that moment.

In the Yohkaku, the warmth from the evening meal lingered in the air. Yoh had just brought out the final dish, her culinary skills as refined as always, filling the room with the aroma of her creations.

Shigeru and Kaoru exchanged smiles, their hands still tightly clasped. Shigeru's heart was still racing as he took a deep breath, gently patting

Kaoru's hand. Then, turning to Yoh, he said, "Mother, we have some wonderful news to share with you."

Yoh looked up, her face softening into a warm smile. "Oh? What's the news?"

Shigeru glanced at Kaoru and tightened his grip on her hand. "Just now, at Nagoya Port, I proposed to Kaoru, and she accepted."

Yoh was momentarily surprised, and then her face blossomed into a delighted smile. Her eyes shone with joy and emotion. "This is wonderful news! Kaoru, I've always liked you. I believe you'll be the perfect partner for Shigeru."

Kaoru blushed at Yoh's words, replying softly, "Thank you, Mom. Your trust and support mean the world to me."

Yoh stepped forward to take Kaoru's hand, smiling even more brightly. "We're family now."

Watching this warm scene unfold, Shigeru felt a profound gratitude. He knew that Yoh had always treated him as her own son, and now, she was welcoming Kaoru just the same.

"Thank you, Mother. I promise, Kaoru and I will face all future challenges together," Shigeru said earnestly.

Yoh patted his hand with a smile. "Silly child, I've watched you grow up, and I have never doubted your abilities. Since you've decided to be together, support each other well."

Kaoru nodded firmly beside him, her gaze resolute. "We will, Mom."

That evening, under the soft glow of the lights, Yoh prepared a few treats to celebrate the happy occasion. Shigeru and Kaoru cut the celebratory cake together, raising a toast with Yoh to mark this special moment.

On this blissful night, Shigeru and Kaoru felt a new bond, not only as a couple but as the beginning of a new family. Surrounded by Yoh's care and blessings, they felt their hearts knit even closer together, and Shigeru's resolve to spend his life with Kaoru grew even stronger.