It was 3 months since Parent's Day. Gleefully, Ayano watched as a light reappeared in Sakura's eyes. Eventually, she talked about her senpai, only to have it become a hot topic at dinner time. More often than not, she would nip out in a pretty dress. Dates.

Budo, however, was skeptical of this new 'senpai'. He was very protective of his only daughter.

"Honey," he told Sakura one day.  "You should bring your senpai to our house one day. For a dinner or something."

"Oh, bring his whole family!" piped in Ayano. "I'm sure they're all good people."

Sakura ducked her head awkwardly. "It's not such a good time for them, really."
Ayano brushed it off. "I'm sure we can fix something up." "Try calling them," encouraged Budo, crossing his arms.

"Guys," said Sakura, uncertain. "I really don't think—"

But under the glare of her parents, she phoned up her boyfriend.

"Babe? You see, my parents want to meet up... I know, I've tried declining... should I tell them?... You sure?... I'm so sorry babe... Love you."

Sakura turned back to them. "They can meet you. But, you see, their family just lost a child. It's a little hard for them." "I see," said Budo, nodding solemnly.

But even so, they agreed to meet. One week later, everyone was dressed in their best clothes, ready to meet each other.

"His parents are the nicest, of course," explained Sakura nervously. "You'll love them. But try not to—"

"—mention their kid. Got it." Ayano rolled her eyes, smiling. She was about to meet her little Sakura's hard-earned senpai!

Ding dong.

"They're here."

Sakura practically bounced towards the door and opened it. "Hello, everyone."

Ayano almost fainted in Budo's arms.

A shot of orange hair and indignant face glared back at her. A familiar dreamy face smiled at her. And, entwining hands with her daughter...

"Mom, Dad, meet my senpai, Hoshi Najimi."