As they lay there in the afterglow of their passion, Aiko couldn't help but feel a sense of peace wash over her. Despite everything that had happened between them, they still found each other. Maybe there was hope for them yet. She reached up to caress Shizuko's cheek, her fingers trembling slightly.

"I'm sorry for being so stubborn," she whispered, her voice hoarse with emotion. "I never meant to hurt you."

Tears welled in her eyes as Shizuko apologized; he had been through so much because of her. But seeing him like this, so caring and gentle, made her heart ache with love and regret. She leaned forward, pressing their lips together in a tender kiss, wishing she could take back everything that had happened between them.

"It's okay," she whispered when they pulled apart, wiping away his tears with the pad of her thumb. "We can work through this. Together."

I-I don't know if that's possible... But I would like to try. I've missed you so much, and seeing you here tonight... It made me realize just how empty my life has been without you in it. If we could give each other another chance, maybe we can find our way back together. It won't be easy, but I think we owe it to ourselves—and to what we once had—to try.

I'll always love you, Mantekas... Even if we can't be together right now. But if there's even the smallest chance that we could find our way back to each other, I want to take it. I know things won't be easy, but I think we both deserve a second chance at happiness. Just promise me you'll always keep me safe, okay? No matter what happens next.