After seeing themselves as kids again in the fog covered clearing, they realized that the promise that they made had come true. They had found one another again and they were in love. As they emerged from the woods, their families drew closer.

"What is going on? Where have the two of you been?" Mr. Nakamura asked. "Answer me Hiro!"

"Rose, are you okay? What happened?" Mr. Matsuda questioned his daughter. He was earnestly concerned about what may have happened. "Rose, can't you answer me?"

Questions came from everyone, but still the two of them stood there holding hands. They didn't want to let go for fear that they would be separated from each other if they did. When the questioning subsided a bit, Hiro and Rose told then that they would explain everything. First, they apologized to their families and said that they could not honor their betrothals. They explained everything that happened in the fog covered clearing including the exchange of necklaces, which they then showed to their families as proof.

As they showed the necklaces, Mr. Matsuda remembered what had happened when Rose was only five years old. It was her first visit to Japan and Rose had disappeared. It was after she had returned that Rose's real parents were upset that she had lost her grandmother's necklace. Since that day, Rose has always worn the necklace she was wearing now. Mr. Nakamura recalled a similar incident. His son had disappeared when he was very ill at the age of six. When he returned, the betrothal necklace that was supposed to be given to Erica was gone. In its place was an old locket that the Nakamura family had never seen before. Hiro has worn the locket ever since.

Hiro and Rose then told their families about the promise that they made. They also explained that they were in love and told them how they came to realize their feelings for each other. They then asked for their families' blessings and approval for mariage.

Their parents were surprised by their determination to explain the situation to them. They also appreciated their honesty in disclosing everything. The more that they listened to them, the more they realized that they really were in love. They could not bear to separate them now.

Mr. Nakamura rose and addressed Hiro and Rose. "Thank you both for your honesty. If you had not been truthful, I would not have been able to accept your relationship. You both have my approval and blessing." He approached the young couple and shook his son's hand. He then turned towards Rose and gave her a hug. "Welcome to our family" he whispered in her ear and she smiled.

Then silence filled the room as they waited for Mr. Matsuda to give his answer. All eyes were focused on his position, yet he did not flinch. Then, when they least expected it, he spoke "If this is what you have chosen... then I have no objection. He is an honorable man. I could think of no one else who could make you happier. I give my heartfelt blessing and consent for marriage." Mr. Matsuda then rose and approached the couple. He gave his daughter a hug and then shook Hiro's hand.

Now that their families had formally accepted their relationship, they were officially betrothed. Nothing would ever stand in between them and their happiness.

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The End!

Thank You for Reading!!! (^_~)