(As the departure time approached, the calm atmosphere that filled the Tanaka family home began to blend with a pleasant sense of satisfaction. Everyone had enjoyed the meeting more than they expected, so much so that the hours passed without them noticing.)
Ahmed's father stood up smiling, then turned toward Misaki's father and said in Arabic:
Ahmed's Father: "We really enjoyed meeting you. Japan is very beautiful. We want to go to the hot springs here. Can we go together next time?"
(All eyes turn toward Ahmed.)
Ahmed knows that he will now have to translate this sudden request. He takes a light breath, then conveys his father's words into Japanese. As soon as Misaki's father hears the translation, he smiles with interest, while signs of surprise appear on Misaki's face.
As for Ahmed… He froze for a single second. For that embarrassing memory he had experienced previously at one of the hot springs flashed back into his mind.
(He unintentionally turns toward Misaki.) She notices his gaze immediately, and her eyes widen slightly.
Misaki: "Ahmed-kun... don't tell me you are remembering that situation right now!" (Ahmed scratches the back of his head sheepishly.) Ahmed: "Unfortunately... yes." (Misaki covers her face with her hands from sheer embarrassment.)
Honoka bursts into laughter. Honoka: "It seems there is a story we don't know about." Ahmed and Misaki together: "There is no story!" (Everyone's laughter increases.)
Even Misaki's parents couldn't hide their smiles as they watched the confusion of the two. After the laughter subsided, Misaki's father responds calmly:
Misaki's Father: "A beautiful idea. Hot springs are among the most beautiful things in Japan." (Ahmed translates his words for his family.)
Happiness appears on everyone's faces, especially the children, who began imagining the trip before it was officially decided. But Misaki's father continues with a smile:
Misaki's Father: "Let us arrange the matter well first, and then choose the appropriate time and place." (Ahmed's father nods in agreement.) Ahmed's Father: "Excellent. We will wait for that."
After exchanging words of farewell and gratitude, Ahmed's family began preparing to leave. Everyone stood in front of the house, exchanging final bows and greetings. It was clear that the first meeting between the two families was not just a passing visit, but rather the beginning of a true friendship that brought together two families from different cultures.
And on their way back home… The children were talking enthusiastically about the upcoming trip, while Ahmed was looking out the car window with a calm smile. He felt that the people he loved had become closer to one another than ever before.
In the following days… Ahmed and Misaki began coordinating the necessary arrangements for the long-awaited trip to the hot springs, while Honoka and Yoshika's excitement grew day after day for this new experience.