Time passed. Despite her doubts, Miku decided to try building a relationship with Ray. The man was afraid that his habit of visiting Lily's grave every month might upset Miku, but the girl was understanding. At some point, she even started going with him. What was surprising was that the first time they did, there was no awkwardness. Ray concluded that it was a sign Lily was happy for him, which allowed the man to release some of his doubts.
They were on a date now. Ray sat on the grass in the park, his back against a tree, while Miku basked in his arms like a cat.
Suddenly, the girl dropped a bombshell:
"What do you think about having a child?"
Ray thought for a moment, then answered:
"I think it's too early. You're just starting to build your career. Having a child is a very responsible step. And I'm very glad you're thinking about it… but in my opinion, it's still too soon."
"I know you still think I might run away from you. If so, wouldn't it be better to use a child to tie me to you? I realized a long time ago that I love you. Besides, you and Lily's sister also had a big age difference."
"I believe that you love me. But you're still young, and one day you might realize you want to leave. Having a child would make that complicated. Lily had to put in a lot of effort to get me to agree to that step, and, as you know, it didn't end happily."
"I'm sorry I brought it up… Okay, tonight you can punish your bad girl," Miku said playfully.
"You don't need to apologize. Just don't rush. You're still very young, and you'll have time to have children."
"Not me. Us."
"I see how Deya is growing up, and I understand that Lily's sister was right when she said you'd make a wonderful father."
Noticing that Miku wanted to say something but was hesitating to bring it up, Ray smiled and said:
"I can see something's bothering you. Whatever it is—we'll get through it together."
"Dave wants to come over and apologize," Miku said hesitantly.
Hearing her words, Ray calmly replied:
"Let him come. I don't see a problem with that. But if he misbehaves, he'd better be ready to end up in the hospital again."
"Hey, after what happened, he quit drinking and drugs. But I appreciate you agreeing."
"During our relationship, you've given me no reason to distrust you, and I really appreciate that you've been understanding about my quirks. I'm just meeting you halfway and showing my trust."
"I told you from the start—I'm not trying to replace her. All I need is for you to find a little space for me in your heart."
The day Dave arrived, Yuno said to Miku:
"He trusts you. But if you ever betray that trust, you'll never get it back."
Those words stung Miku. They suggested that Yuno doubted her feelings for Ray. But Miku didn't argue. She decided time would tell.
Greeting the guest, Ray said:
"I'm not going to apologize for what happened."
"I don't want your apology. On the contrary, I should say 'thank you.' That incident opened my eyes to what an asshole I was."
"I'm glad you realize that. If the day comes when you feel your eyes starting to close again, you know where to find me."
"I'll keep that in mind, but I still hope it never comes to that."
"This is my girlfriend, Grace."