Love Him...Forever

Unspoken Hearts

"What Hana means is that she really missed you—when you two had that misunderstanding," Allen said suddenly, appearing out of nowhere and slipping himself into the moment as if he belonged there.

Both Shine and Yuzuru turned to him at the same time, startled by his unexpected arrival.

Allen leaned down and pressed a gentle kiss to Shine's cheek before giving Yuzuru a polite bow.

"Allen—how did you—" Shine started, but he cut her off easily.

"I was nearby and saw your car outside. I decided to check... and, well," he smiled knowingly, "I was right. You're here."

Did you forget about the GPS, Shine? Her inner self groaned. But honestly... this is one of those rare moments I'm glad Allen showed up.

"I see," Shine said softly, embarrassment warming her cheeks—yet relief followed close behind.

Allen glanced at her with a teasing smile before turning back to Yuzuru.

"Yuzuru," he said in Japanese, his tone calm, convincing. "Hana doesn't have many friends. They move around a lot." He paused, then continued smoothly. "So when she finally got a job at the club and made friends there, she was really happy."

He looked at Shine as if asking for permission to continue the lie.

Luckily, Allen is here to save you again, her inner self said proudly.

Shine nodded.

"And when she met you, she was even happier," Allen went on. "People talked about you all the time at the club—the new star of figure skating. Right, Hana?"

Shine caught the cue immediately.

"What Allen said is true, Yuzuru," she said, meeting his eyes. "I really missed how we used to be... before things became cold between us. But I think it's not too late to start again."

Yuzuru had expected that answer—yet some small part of him still wished for something more. He hid the disappointment behind a soft smile.

"I'm sorry," he said quietly. "I didn't realize I was hurting you because of my own selfishness. I promise I won't do that again." His voice softened. "And yes... it's never too late for us."

A warm smile passed between them.

Yuzuru checked his watch and stood. "I should go. My flight back to Japan is tomorrow. It's getting late—Mama will be waiting."

"Are you leaving already?" Shine asked, standing up with Allen.

"Yes."

"I can give you a lift," Allen offered.

I can't leave my car here—it's a Ferrari! Shine's inner self panicked.

"No, it's okay," Yuzuru declined politely.

"I think I should drive him home," Shine said firmly. "Since we came together." She quickly added when Allen looked ready to object, "And you can follow us. I'm not comfortable leaving my car."

The look she gave them ended the argument.

Inside the car, Shine suddenly giggled.

"What's funny?" Yuzuru asked.

"Us."

"Us?"

"Yes—look at us. We're so quiet."

"What do you want to talk about?"

"Anything. We're acting like strangers."

"I'm just... speechless," he admitted. "I still can't believe I'm sitting in a Ferrari."

"If anyone should feel that way, it should be me," Shine replied. "An Olympic gold medalist sitting next to me."

"That gold medal was one of my happiest moments," he said softly. "But it's in the past now."

"It's still an honor," Shine said honestly. She felt his gaze and stiffened slightly. "What?"

"Nothing. Just... a lot has happened since GPF."

"True," she laughed lightly.

"I think our relationship—our friendship—is getting stronger."

"Yes," Shine said. "It's new to me. I never cried over someone before."

"Sorry about that."

"You're forgiven. I understand now," she said quietly.

"You lost the girl you loved for fourteen years. And then someone who looks exactly like her appeared. Anyone would've reacted the same. Even me."

Yuzuru's voice dropped. "If you lost Allen?"

If I lost you, her heart answered.

"Maybe..." Shine said weakly.

"Why?" he asked. "Don't you love Allen?"

How can I love him when I already love—
The GPS interrupted.

They drove in silence.

"Love is a big word," Shine finally said. "I don't know if that's what I feel for Allen. But he's important to me. I don't want to lose him."

"So... he likes you more than you like him," Yuzuru said quietly. "Like me to Shine."

"Well... we're still starting," she said quickly.

"I see. But for me," he confessed, "the moment I saw Shine at the club, my heart started beating. I knew I loved her."

I loved you too, her inner self whispered.

Shine parked the car. "We're here."

"Thank you," he said.

As she started the engine again, Yuzuru lingered by the window.

"Do you want to come in?" he asked softly.

"Maybe next time," Shine replied, smiling faintly. "Judging from everyone's reaction, I doubt your mom would be any different."

"What makes you think Mama knows Shine?" he asked, amused.

"Because you loved Shine for fourteen years," she said gently. "Knowing you, you would have introduced her to the most important woman in your life."

Yuzuru paused, then smirked slightly. "I see."

She started the engine, but he stepped forward once more, leaning closer.

"I miss you too," he whispered.