Page 107 of From Rivals to I Do

“Let’s at least go inside,” I say to her. She shifts to the side of the doorway, giving me way to come in. I step into the little, quaint living room. It’s not necessarily furnished, just a large fusion, a center table, and a few art portraits beautify the space.

I sit on the couch and Amber sits beside me. “So, what going on?” she asks.

I decide to tease her a bit, just to see if she can guess. “Go on, take a guess.”

Amber thinks for a moment, her eyes narrowing with concentration. “I have no idea. You have that look like you won the lottery or something.”

I chuckle, her guess nowhere near the mark. “No, not the lottery. Something even more unexpected. My father, the one I haven’t heard from in over fifteen years, sent me an email.”

Amber’s eyes widen in surprise. “Your father? After all these years? What did he say?”

I begin to explain, recounting the contents of the email, the heartfelt apology, and the revelation of a fortune he intends to leave me. The more I talk, the wider Amber’s eyes become her expression a mix of disbelief and astonishment.

“He’s really sorry, Amber. And there’s this fortune he’s leaving to me. It’s unbelievable, I can't help but wonder if he is still alive.”

And then, Amber’s reaction is nothing short of a scream, a burst of pure joy and excitement. Her happiness is contagious, and I can’t help but share in her enthusiasm.

“Amber, I can’t believe it either,” I tell her as her laughter fills the room.

She quiets down, a warm smile on her face. “Derrick, this is amazing news. I’m so happy for you.”

I take her hands in mine, a sense of peace and contentment washing over me. “Thank you, Amber. I think it’s time for me to reconnect with my family, after all these years.”

She nods in agreement, her eyes reflecting genuine happiness for me. “You should, Derrick. Follow your heart.”

I nod, a new sense of purpose guiding me. I never imagined how healing those words of apology from my father would soothe my heart. “You know, I might have to arrange a trip back to the U.S.”

Amber’s smile doesn’t waver; instead, it radiates encouragement and support. “You should, Derrick. It’s a big step, and I hope you find everything you’re looking for.”

I’m touched by her words and her unwavering encouragement. She’s been a steadfast companion through thick and thin, and I feel a deep sense of gratitude for her presence in my life. It’s been just a month plus, and I feel like I have known her for forever. “Thank you, Amber, I want you to know that I have truly fallen in love with you".

“I love you too Derrick, I hope you do return to Japan to visit us,” she says comically. No, but seriously, me and Alex will miss you, it's hard to imagine being here in Japan without you".

“Amber. I don’t know if I’d actually return again. I think I have realized, that Japan has been a hiding place for me, it is time for me to face my fears and my past.. But I won’t be going alone.”

I see her mood slightly fall, but her eyes light up with curiosity. “Who’s that?”

I can’t resist playing with her for a moment. “Hmm, care to take a guess?”

Amber’s eyes twinkle with excitement, and she takes a few seconds to contemplate. Then, her face lights up with realization. “No way, Derrick. Are you saying. . .”

I confirm her guess with a smile and a nod. “Yes, Amber. I’m not going alone.”

Her reaction is pure joy. She leaps into my arms, hugging me tightly, and I hold her close, the world seeming to disappear in that moment of shared happiness.

***

Amber

The evening sun casts a warm, golden hue over the street, and it comes to life with vibrant colors and shimmering lights. Lanterns, paper, and silk, adorn storefronts, creating an atmosphere of enchantment. The streets hum with the energy of the city as children play, their laughter filling the air.

Taking a leisurely stroll, Derrick and I are immersed in this delightful cultural experience. There is an indescribable charm in the way the traditional and modern coexist, weaving a tapestry of beauty and history.

A quaint store catches our attention, its signage illuminated by the soft, golden glow of paper lanterns. The store is nestled amid a picturesque scene, exuding an inviting aroma that fills the street. The sign reads: ‘Mochi Ice Cream - 260 yen per unit’.

Derrick flashes a warm smile and hands over the yen. “Two units, please,” he says to the cheerful seller, who promptly begins assembling the delicate treats.

As we receive our mochi ice cream, the cool confections are wrapped in vibrant, traditional papers. It is a delightful fusion of the familiar and the exotic. I can’t help but savor the anticipation as we unwrap the sweet delights.

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