chapter sixty-nine:
❛ home is where you are ❜

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The morning air in Kyoto was crisp, the early sunlight casting a golden glow over the narrow streets. Vendors were already setting up their stalls, the smell of sizzling street food mingling with the fragrant blooms from nearby flower stands. The market was alive - a hum of chatter, clinking coins, and the rhythmic tapping of bicycles weaving through the throng of people.

Arizona, Miguel, Sam, and Dylan stood at the edge of the street, the vibrant chaos stretching before them. Despite the early hour, the place was buzzing. Arizona took a deep breath, her expression serene as always, letting the atmosphere wash over her. There was something grounding about mornings like this - the world waking up, simple and unhurried.

"This is amazing," Sam murmured, tucking a stray strand of hair behind her ear as her gaze flicked from the colorful fruit stalls to the lantern-adorned awnings. "I can't believe we're actually here."

Dylan, standing at her side, adjusted his glasses and nodded quickly. "Yeah, it's like... like stepping into a Studio Ghibli movie. But with way more smells." He wrinkled his nose slightly as the distinct aroma of grilled fish wafted past.

Miguel grinned, slinging an arm around Arizona's shoulder. "And just wait until you see Arizona try to haggle."

"I'm perfectly capable of negotiating," Arizona replied, her voice as calm and deliberate as ever. She arched a brow at Miguel. "It's about presence. Confidence."

Miguel snorted. "You don't speak Japanese."

"I know some Japanese," Arizona said, lifting her chin slightly, though her lips twitched in amusement. "I've been practicing."

"Oh, this I've got to see," Miguel teased, his laughter light. "But don't say I didn't warn you. Last time she tried, the guy gave her an extra keychain out of pity."

"It was a strategic win," Arizona deadpanned.

"Totally," Miguel said, smirking. "If your goal was 'most adorable failed negotiation,' then yeah."

Dylan chuckled, but the sound was barely audible as he nervously shifted closer to Sam, his hand brushing against hers. The subtle gesture didn't go unnoticed by Arizona, who shot him a knowing glance. Dylan had been jittery around Sam ever since they'd started dating. Even now, months into their relationship, he still radiated nervous energy - like a puppy afraid of tripping over its own feet.

"Dylan," Arizona said softly, breaking him from his thoughts. "You okay?"

"Huh? Oh! Yeah, totally!" Dylan's voice cracked slightly, and he rubbed the back of his neck. "I mean, I'm fine. Great, even. Just... uh... taking it all in."

Sam smiled warmly, her hand slipping into his. "It's a lot, right? But in the best way."

"Exactly," Dylan nodded rapidly, his cheeks tinged pink. "Like-like a sensory overload but, like, a cool one."

Miguel laughed, shaking his head. "Dude, relax. You're with us. Nobody's gonna make you climb Mount Fuji or anything."

"Unless you want to," Arizona added with a small grin.

Dylan's eyes widened slightly. "That... I'll pass on that one. Thanks."

"Suit yourself," Arizona said, then gestured to the row of vendors ahead. "But I am going to find the best deal in this market."

"Let the games begin," Miguel declared dramatically.

With that, the four of them set off down the narrow street. The morning sunlight danced across the brightly painted banners and intricate signs, the colors vivid and inviting. Vendors called out enthusiastically in Japanese, their voices mingling with the lively conversations of locals and tourists alike.

Arizona moved with a kind of unhurried grace, her curiosity leading her from stall to stall. She admired handwoven fabrics, delicate pottery, and intricately crafted paper fans. Even the mundane was fascinating to her - the way vendors meticulously arranged their produce, the laughter of children chasing after each other, the scent of fresh matcha drifting from a nearby tea stand.

At one particularly colorful stall, she stopped, her eyes narrowing with intrigue at the polished wooden trinkets on display. A small carved turtle caught her attention - smooth, detailed, and unmistakably handmade.

"How much?" Arizona asked, her voice steady as she pointed to the turtle.

The elderly vendor smiled kindly and responded in rapid Japanese, gesturing toward the small chalkboard that displayed the price.

Arizona, undeterred, furrowed her brow. "Ah. Okay. What about... um... cheaper?"

Miguel stifled a laugh, while Sam tilted her head, clearly impressed by Arizona's determination. Dylan, on the other hand, shifted nervously, as though half-expecting the vendor to banish them from the market.

The vendor chuckled, shaking his head. "No discount."

"I see," Arizona said, nodding sagely. "But... what if I buy two turtles?" She held up two fingers, her expression radiating confidence. "Two. Special deal?"

The vendor paused, considering her offer, then nodded with a grin. "Okay. Two turtles. Special deal."

Miguel blinked. "Wait. Did that actually work?"

"Presence," Arizona said simply, handing over the yen. "And a little charm."

"Unbelievable," Miguel muttered, though his smile never faded.

"You're a menace," Sam added, laughing.

"And proud," Arizona replied, pocketing her turtle triumphantly.

As they continued walking, the group passed by a sizzling food stand where skewers of grilled meat glistened under the morning light. The vendor flipped them with practiced ease, the savory aroma wafting toward them.

"Alright," Miguel grinned. "Dylan, I dare you to try something adventurous."

"Adventurous?" Dylan's voice cracked slightly. "Like what?"

"This," Miguel said, pointing toward a skewer labeled in bold Japanese characters. "I'm not even sure what it is, but it looks... intense."

Sam smirked. "Come on, Dylan. Be brave."

Dylan's eyes darted from the skewers to Sam's teasing grin. His heartbeat quickened. "Okay. Fine. One bite. But if I die, I'm haunting all of you."

"Fair," Sam laughed.

The vendor handed over the mystery skewer, and Dylan reluctantly held it like it might bite back. He took a deep breath, the three of them watching him expectantly. Then, with dramatic resolve, he took a bite.

For a moment, his expression was unreadable. Then he blinked. "Okay... not bad."

Miguel patted him on the back, grinning. "See? You're basically a local now."

Dylan swallowed, coughing slightly. "Or I'm hallucinating. Not sure yet."

They all laughed, the lingering tension breaking away. For that brief morning, the weight of the past and future disappeared. They were just four friends, exploring a new place, savoring the laughter and the vibrant joy that filled the market air.

The midday sun hung high over Okinawa, casting a golden light over the ancient wooden buildings lining the narrow streets. The air was warm and thick with the scent of blossoming flowers and the occasional waft of sizzling street food. But today wasn't about the bustling markets or the charm of local cafes.

Today was about something deeper.

Arizona, Miguel, Sam, and Dylan stood before the entrance of a historic karate dojo, its aged wooden beams etched with centuries of tradition. A large shimenawa rope adorned the doorway, a symbol of protection and respect. The soft hum of cicadas filled the air, mingling with the distant sound of wind chimes.

Arizona's gaze lingered on the intricately carved kanji that framed the entrance. The air seemed different here - heavier, but not in an oppressive way. It was reverent, like the weight of history had settled into the walls themselves. She took a slow, steady breath, centering herself. This was why she had come to Okinawa.

"This is it," Miguel said, practically vibrating with excitement. "The real deal. This is like... walking into the heart of Miyagi-Do's roots."

Sam smiled softly at him, warmth blooming in her chest. She loved how Miguel's eyes lit up when he talked about karate. It was like the world fell away, and all that remained was his passion.

"Pretty amazing, right?" Sam said, nudging him playfully.

Miguel nodded, his grin unwavering. "Yeah. I mean, just imagine - Mr. Miyagi's ancestors probably trained in places just like this."

Dylan, however, fidgeted nervously. His glasses slipped slightly down his nose, and he pushed them back up, scanning the weathered exterior of the building like it might suddenly come to life. "It's... uh... really old," he murmured. "Like, super old. Do we have to, like, bow before we go in or something?"

Arizona's lips quirked into a faint smile. "It wouldn't hurt."

Dylan's brows knitted. "And if I mess it up? What if I accidentally insult a thousand years of karate spirits or something? I don't want some ancient sensei ghost haunting me because I bowed wrong."

"Relax," Sam teased, sliding her hand into his. "You're overthinking again."

"I'm always overthinking," Dylan shot back with a sheepish grin. "It's my signature move."

"Well," Arizona said, her tone as calm as ever, "let's not keep the spirits waiting."

They stepped inside, the wooden floorboards creaking softly beneath their feet. The air was noticeably cooler, the thick walls shielding them from the midday heat. Sunlight filtered through narrow windows, illuminating the dojo's interior in golden slants. Along the walls, ancient scrolls depicting katas and philosophical teachings hung with meticulous care.

A life-sized bronze statue of a karate master stood at the far end, his stance unwavering, fists clenched. A low table near the front displayed various relics - old training weapons, polished stones with engraved kanji, and faded photographs of students who had come before.

Miguel's eyes roamed the space in awe. "This is incredible," he whispered. "It's like stepping into a piece of karate's soul."

Arizona knelt before one of the relics, her fingertips tracing the delicate patterns on a worn wooden bo staff. There was something grounding about it. The staff had likely passed through countless hands, each movement a reflection of years of discipline and resilience.

"The weight of tradition," she murmured, more to herself than anyone else. "It's humbling."

Miguel nodded, crouching beside her. "This is why Miyagi-Do's teachings always felt different. It's not just about winning fights - it's about carrying on a legacy."

Nearby, Sam and Dylan lingered near the framed photographs. Sam smiled, her fingers trailing along the edge of a sepia-toned image of young students practicing katas. "Look at them," she said. "They're like us."

"Except probably way cooler," Dylan mumbled, adjusting his glasses. "I mean, they look like they'd laugh me straight out of the dojo."

Sam laughed. "You underestimate yourself."

Dylan's face flushed slightly at the compliment, and he ducked his head. "Well, statistically speaking, I'm probably right."

But Sam wasn't paying attention to his self-deprecating remark anymore. She had wandered to the center of the dojo, where the open space beckoned her. The polished wooden floor reflected the sunlight, and an unmistakable feeling settled over her - like the dojo itself was inviting her to move.

"Okay, this might be dumb," Sam said, glancing at Miguel. "But I kinda want to try something."

Miguel's grin widened. "Go for it. Channel your inner Miyagi."

She laughed, but the challenge lit something playful in her eyes. Taking a deep breath, she stepped into position, her stance instinctively firm. Slowly, she began a traditional kata, the movements flowing through her like water - deliberate, steady, precise.

Arizona watched in quiet admiration. Sam's movements weren't just trained; they were instinctual. Each step was purposeful, each strike a reflection of her focus. But what caught Arizona's attention the most wasn't the kata itself - it was the way Dylan's gaze never left Sam.

The boy was practically frozen, his heart-shaped face betraying his awe. He reached into his pocket, fumbling for his phone without even thinking. In an instant, the camera was up, capturing Sam mid-movement - her silhouette against the light, hair swaying, face set in fierce concentration.

The shutter clicked.

"Did you just-" Sam turned abruptly, cheeks flushing.

Dylan's eyes went wide. "Uh-uh-no! I mean, yes! But not in a creepy way! I swear!" He frantically lowered his phone. "You just looked-cool! Like, really cool. And I thought... photo! But then-words! And now I'm regretting everything."

Sam's blush deepened, but she couldn't help the laugh that bubbled up. "You're ridiculous."

"I know," Dylan sighed dramatically. "And yet, somehow, you're still dating me."

Arizona smirked. "It's one of life's great mysteries."

Miguel clapped Dylan on the back. "Don't worry, dude. That was like, maybe a five on the embarrassment scale. Solidly recoverable."

"Only a five?" Dylan asked, hopeful.

"Maybe a seven," Miguel amended.

Sam rolled her eyes, but there was warmth behind it. "Come on, let's explore the rest of the dojo before Dylan digs himself into a deeper hole."

Dylan immediately nodded, though his cheeks remained pink. As they wandered deeper into the dojo, laughter echoed through the old wooden walls. For all the weight of tradition and history, the place seemed just a little brighter now - infused with the light-hearted joy of four friends making memories, one awkward moment at a time.

The sun hung lazily in the sky, spilling soft golden light across the shimmering Okinawan beach. The tide rolled in and out with a rhythmic hum, the waves whispering secrets to the shore. A light breeze carried the scent of saltwater and distant cooking fires, mingled with the laughter of families enjoying the day. The sand was warm beneath their feet, fine and white like powdered sugar.

Arizona took a deep breath, savoring the stillness of it all. There was a certain serenity to the beach - it wasn't crowded like the touristy spots, just a few locals scattered here and there. The vastness of the ocean seemed to stretch endlessly, its sapphire waves meeting the sky in a seamless horizon. She could almost feel the energy of the island itself, ancient and enduring.

Beside her, Miguel walked with an easy stride, his fingers interlaced with hers. The feel of his hand in hers was grounding, familiar. Every so often, he'd glance at her with that soft, lovestruck expression that never failed to make her heart flutter.

"I can't believe we're actually here," Miguel murmured, kicking at the wet sand as the waves lapped at their ankles. "Okinawa. It feels like something out of a dream."

Arizona smiled, her face glowing in the sunlight. "It kind of is. But you've always been one to turn dreams into reality."

Miguel gave a humble shrug, though the compliment clearly warmed him. "I mean, I can't take credit for all of it. Mr. Miyagi and your dad had a pretty big hand in that."

A breeze tousled Arizona's dark hair as she considered his words. Her father, Alexander, had taught her a lot about discipline and tradition - though in his own complicated way. And Miyagi-Do, through Daniel, had become another part of her. She hadn't always welcomed it, especially after the chaos with Cobra Kai, but now, standing here with Miguel, she felt at peace.

"And now," Miguel continued, squeezing her hand, "we get to make our own memories."

Arizona's smile deepened. "Yeah. Our own stories."

They walked in silence for a moment, the sun's rays dancing on the water. Then Miguel grinned mischievously. "You know, the last time we were on a beach like this, we got engaged."

Arizona laughed softly. "Technically, we were on a cliff overlooking the beach."

"Details," Miguel teased. "I'm just saying, beaches have a pretty good track record for us." He raised an eyebrow. "Maybe I should propose again. Just to be sure."

Arizona rolled her eyes playfully. "If you propose every time we step on a beach, we're going to have a lot of rings."

Miguel gave a mock-serious nod. "Exactly. A ring for every beach. Tradition."

She shook her head, though her laughter echoed over the waves. "You're ridiculous."

"Ridiculously in love with you," he countered smoothly.

Arizona leaned into him, her head resting against his shoulder as they strolled. "Good answer."

Further down the beach, Dylan was nervously shifting from foot to foot, the hem of his shorts brushing his knees. His glasses perched crookedly on his nose, and the sun cast a slight glare over the lenses. Sam stood in front of him, hands on her hips, the amusement clear in her expression.

"You are such a chicken," Sam teased, her voice laced with laughter.

"I am not a chicken!" Dylan argued, though his voice cracked slightly. "I'm just... water-conscious."

"Water-conscious?" Sam echoed incredulously. "That's not even a thing."

"It is if you wear glasses! And, you know, have a natural aversion to things that might contain sea monsters." He gestured vaguely at the water. "I've seen documentaries, Sam. Those creatures are out there."

Sam snorted. "We're not in the Bermuda Triangle. It's a beach. The scariest thing in there is probably a jellyfish."

"Jellyfish are terrifying!" Dylan exclaimed. "They're like sentient, floating snot with stingers!"

Sam tried - and failed - to hold back her laughter. "Okay, fine. But you're still getting in."

"Nope. I'm good. Right here on dry land," Dylan declared, planting his feet firmly in the sand. "Prime observation point."

"Oh really?" Sam's eyes gleamed mischievously. "You're absolutely sure?"

"Positive," Dylan said, crossing his arms. "Nothing can make me-"

Before he could finish, Sam launched a surprise attack, cupping her hands and scooping up a splash of water, sending a wave straight at him. The cold droplets drenched his shirt, leaving dark splotches across the fabric. Dylan yelped, his glasses slipping further down his nose.

"You did not just-"

"Oh, I absolutely did."

The challenge was clear. Without a second thought, Dylan retaliated, splashing her right back. Sam gasped, but her laughter rang out, her ponytail whipping as she tried to dodge the spray. Water droplets glinted in the sunlight, and soon enough, their so-called "splash war" was in full effect.

"You're gonna regret this!" Dylan laughed, chasing after Sam as she darted into the shallows.

"I'm already winning!" Sam shot back.

"That's what you think!"

But as Dylan lunged toward her, Sam's foot slipped in the wet sand, and with a delighted squeal, she tumbled right into the water - dragging Dylan along with her.

The two emerged from the waves, soaked and breathless, laughter bubbling between them. Dylan's glasses were askew, and his hair plastered awkwardly to his forehead, but he hardly seemed to care. Sam's cheeks were flushed, water droplets clinging to her skin.

"You're unbelievable," Dylan huffed, though the smile on his face betrayed him.

Sam grinned. "And you're finally in the water."

Dylan blinked, realizing she was right. He flailed his arms dramatically. "And now I'm doomed! The sea monsters are coming!"

"Guess I'll have to protect you," Sam teased, reaching up to adjust his glasses.

"Good," Dylan whispered, his face suddenly a bit pinker. "Because I'm pretty sure I'd let you."

By nightfall, the four of them gathered around a crackling bonfire on the beach. The flames danced, casting a warm glow across their faces. They skewered fresh fish over the flames, the salty breeze mixing with the smoky aroma of their meal.

Miguel laughed as Dylan animatedly recounted his "battle" against the so-called sea monsters, with Sam rolling her eyes beside him. Arizona leaned against Miguel, the weight of the day settling into her bones in the most satisfying way.

"I'm pretty sure you're never going to live that down," Miguel teased Dylan, poking at the embers.

"I accept my fate," Dylan replied, holding up a piece of grilled fish dramatically. "But I'm a survivor. The beach couldn't take me down."

Sam giggled. "Barely."

The laughter lingered in the air, blending with the gentle crash of the waves. In that moment, Arizona felt it - that rare, perfect contentment. She watched her friends, the firelight reflecting in their eyes, and knew that this day would stay with her.

Because sometimes, it wasn't just about the places you visited. It was about the people you shared them with.

The morning sun cast a golden glow over Okinawa as the streets began to stir with the hum of early commuters and shopkeepers preparing for the day. Arizona and Sam had already headed off to their orientation, a mix of excitement and nerves lingering in their wake. Meanwhile, Miguel and Dylan wandered down a narrow street lined with small, colorful shops and the tantalizing aroma of freshly grilled street food. The two of them couldn't be more different - Miguel, with his easy confidence, and Dylan, nervously adjusting his glasses every few minutes as if the unfamiliar setting might knock them askew.

"So... they're probably sitting in some giant lecture hall right now," Dylan mused, clutching his phone in one hand, the other shoved awkwardly into his pocket. "Getting all the rules about curfews and how not to burn the dorms down."

Miguel smirked, hands tucked casually in his jeans. "Yeah, probably. Arizona's probably already making friends. And Sam..." He snorted. "Well, she's probably got half the people intimidated and the other half trying to sit next to her."

Dylan flushed slightly. "Yeah. She tends to have that effect."

They continued down the street, passing by stalls brimming with vibrant fabrics, intricate pottery, and gleaming trinkets. The locals called out in cheerful tones, offering samples of snacks or inviting them to browse. Miguel gave polite smiles in return, though his mind was clearly elsewhere.

Dylan, ever observant despite his constant fidgeting, noticed the shift. "Okay, what's up?"

"What?" Miguel blinked, snapping back to attention.

"You've got that look," Dylan pressed. "Like, 'I'm totally fine,' but really you're spiraling in a million different directions." He gestured dramatically with both hands. "I've seen it before. It's like... existential crisis Miguel."

Miguel rolled his eyes, though a faint smile tugged at his lips. "I'm not having an existential crisis."

"Oh, sure," Dylan replied, voice dripping with sarcasm. "You're just strolling through Okinawa like it's totally normal to be deep in thought about something life-altering."

Miguel sighed, his shoulders slumping slightly. "Okay, maybe I'm thinking too much. It's just... this whole thing. Arizona's starting something new, and it's a huge deal. I'm proud of her, obviously, but..."

"But?" Dylan prompted.

Miguel hesitated, his gaze flicking toward the shimmering water visible in the distance. "What if it changes things?"

Dylan frowned, though not out of surprise. "You mean between you two?"

Miguel nodded. "We've been through so much. Long distance isn't exactly easy, and now she's going to be busy. Like, really busy. What if... what if it's too much?"

Dylan paused for a moment, his nervous energy fading as he considered Miguel's words. Then, in a rare display of confidence, he gave a small shrug. "You know, I think that's a pretty normal thing to worry about."

Miguel arched a brow. "That's... not very reassuring."

"Wait, wait! I wasn't done!" Dylan shook his head, gesturing animatedly. "What I mean is - yeah, it's going to be different. But different doesn't mean bad. Arizona's not the kind of person who forgets the people she cares about. She's like... I don't know, this zen sunflower who radiates loyalty or something."

Miguel laughed despite himself. "A zen sunflower?"

"Exactly." Dylan grinned. "And you? You're not exactly the type to bail the second things get tough. Look at what you've already been through together."

The truth of it settled over Miguel, the tension in his chest easing just a little.

"And besides," Dylan added, "I don't think you give yourself enough credit. Arizona loves you. Like, actually loves you. The whole 'wants to marry you and have zen sunflower babies' kind of love." He wrinkled his nose. "Okay, that sounded less weird in my head."

Miguel chuckled. "I get it. Thanks, Dylan."

"Anytime," Dylan replied proudly, clearly pleased with himself. "And if it helps, I'm basically a professional at navigating the whole 'dating someone out of my league' thing."

Miguel raised an eyebrow. "You're talking about Sam?"

"Obviously," Dylan said, flushing instantly. "I mean, have you seen her? Every time she looks at me like I'm not a total idiot, I'm like, 'Wow. She must have poor judgment.'"

Miguel burst out laughing, and even Dylan couldn't help but laugh along. The atmosphere between them lightened, the earlier weight fading into the sea breeze.

After a moment, Dylan adjusted his glasses, his face growing slightly more serious. "But really, Miguel. You and Arizona? You're solid. She's going to do amazing things, and you're going to be right there supporting her. That's how it works."

Miguel nodded slowly, the knot in his stomach finally beginning to loosen. Dylan was right. Things would change, but that didn't mean they would break. Arizona had always been a constant in his life - her steady presence, her unwavering belief in him. And he would be the same for her.

"Thanks, man," Miguel said sincerely.

"Anytime," Dylan repeated, though his voice shifted back to its usual, slightly awkward tone. "And hey, if things ever get rough, I offer highly questionable advice free of charge."

Miguel smirked. "Noted."

As they continued walking, the sun climbing higher above the horizon, Miguel couldn't help but feel a little lighter. Maybe Dylan was right - they weren't just navigating change. They were growing. And with Arizona by his side, that was something he could handle.

The night air was cool and crisp, carrying the faint hum of the city below. The rooftop of the dormitory had become their little escape - a quiet spot to unwind, far from the bustling streets and glowing neon signs of Okinawa. From up there, the city looked like a sea of stars, twinkling buildings stretching endlessly into the horizon. The distant laughter and chatter of students lingered in the air, but it all seemed muted under the vast, open sky.

Arizona leaned against the ledge, her arms resting on the cool concrete as she gazed out at the world below. The city lights danced across her face, her dark hair pulled into a loose braid that swayed in the breeze. There was something peaceful about the moment - the kind of peace that settled deep within her bones. She could hear the rhythmic crashing of the distant ocean waves, a sound that always seemed to calm her.

Sam stood beside her, though her posture was a little more tense. Her eyes flitted across the skyline, but the awe wasn't enough to hide the lingering uncertainty on her face. Arizona noticed it immediately.

"You okay?" Arizona's voice was soft, like a gentle ripple on the water.

Sam hesitated, fiddling with the hem of her oversized hoodie. "Yeah," she said, though the tightness in her voice betrayed her. "I mean, I'm okay now. It's just... everything's starting to feel really real. Classes start soon. Orientation wasn't too bad, but it hit me that I'm actually doing this. I'm on the other side of the world. Away from my parents, from... everything."

Arizona nodded, understanding all too well. "It's a lot," she agreed, her tone serene. "But that's the thing about being out of your comfort zone. It's where the most growth happens. Even when it's scary."

Sam exhaled a shaky breath. "I know. I want to grow. I want to prove to myself that I can handle this. But I can't help thinking about what I'm leaving behind. My dad, my mom... the dojo. And then there's Miguel." She cast a quick glance at him.

Miguel, who had been sitting cross-legged on the ground beside Dylan, looked up at the sound of his name. His dark eyes were warm, attentive. "I get it," he said softly. "But Sam, you're not leaving anything behind. You're just... expanding your world. And I'm always going to be a part of it."

Arizona smiled gently at him, feeling her heart swell. Miguel had a way of making even the most overwhelming things feel manageable. He wasn't one for empty reassurances - every word he spoke, he meant.

"But it's not just Sam," Arizona admitted, her voice quieter now. "I've been thinking about us too." She turned to Miguel, the vulnerability in her expression making his heart ache. "I'm excited about being here. I really am. But I'd be lying if I said I wasn't a little scared. Scared that this will change things. That I'll change, or you'll change, and we won't fit the same way we do now."

Miguel immediately shook his head. "Arizona, you're the strongest person I know. And us? We're solid. I'm not worried about that. Change doesn't mean we'll grow apart. It just means we'll grow - together." He reached out, taking her hand in his. "Wherever you go, I'm by your side. Always."

Arizona's eyes softened, and for a moment, the world seemed to slow. She squeezed his hand tightly, the warmth of his skin grounding her. "I believe you," she murmured.

Dylan, who had been sitting silently for most of the conversation - though visibly uncomfortable with all the romantic declarations - suddenly sprang up, his arms flailing dramatically. "Okay, okay! This is getting way too sappy. If I wanted to feel like a third wheel, I could've just stayed at the beach where the sea monsters live."

Sam snorted, her face breaking into a reluctant grin. "Oh no, not the sea monsters again."

"They're real!" Dylan declared, pointing an accusatory finger at Sam. "And I would've been their snack if it weren't for my impressive aquatic reflexes."

Miguel arched a brow, smirking. "You mean when you fell on your face?"

"That was a tactical fall," Dylan corrected, adjusting his glasses. "I was lowering my center of gravity. Everyone knows that's the best way to avoid a water-based ambush."

Sam giggled, leaning her head against Arizona's shoulder as she shook with laughter. "Oh my god, Dylan."

"Hey, I survived, didn't I?" He puffed up his chest dramatically. "The fact that I'm standing here, alive and dry, is proof that I'm basically a hero. Write it down. Tell your future kids about the brave legend of Dylan the Aquatic Survivor."

Miguel laughed, shaking his head. "We'll be sure to put it in the family scrapbook."

Dylan pointed at him triumphantly. "Thank you. That's all I ask."

The rooftop was soon filled with laughter, the tension from earlier dissipating like mist under the morning sun. The city lights continued to twinkle below, a million stories unfolding beneath them. And though the future was uncertain, for that moment, everything felt right.

Arizona tilted her head back, gazing up at the vast night sky. The stars shone brightly, reminding her that even in unfamiliar places, there was always light. And as she sat surrounded by the people she loved, she knew she wasn't facing this new chapter alone.

The sun had long set, but the air in Okinawa remained warm and sweet with the lingering scent of grilled street food. Twinkling lanterns were strung across the courtyard of a small, traditional teahouse, casting a golden glow over the scene. Miguel had been planning this moment for days, working with a few friendly locals and some fellow students from orientation to surprise Arizona. He'd kept it simple - intimate, personal - something that would reflect how much he loved her.

Arizona stepped through the courtyard gate, her dark eyes widening as she took it all in. A small crowd of familiar faces greeted her with beaming smiles. The soft hum of a shamisen played in the background, and the smell of warm dumplings and grilled fish mingled in the air. Paper lanterns swayed gently overhead, illuminating the bamboo fence and vibrant banners that read: "Congratulations Arizona and Miguel!"

For a moment, Arizona was speechless. Her serene composure cracked as her mouth fell open. "Miguel," she whispered, her voice thick with emotion. "Did you... did you plan this?"

Miguel, unable to hide his grin, slipped his arm around her waist. "Maybe," he teased, his dimples flashing. "Figured we deserved a little celebration."

Arizona's hand covered her mouth, laughter bubbling through her surprise. "You are unbelievable."

"Only for you," he replied softly, brushing a stray lock of hair from her face.

"Okay, but can we talk about how I was not in on this?" Sam's voice piped up from behind them. She approached with Dylan, who was fidgeting nervously in his button-up shirt, the collar slightly crooked. "I feel betrayed," Sam joked, though her smile betrayed her delight.

Dylan, already looking a little overwhelmed, adjusted his glasses and gave a weak laugh. "Yeah, Miguel's a stealth ninja with this whole 'surprise' thing. I thought we were just going to dinner."

"And now you're at a party!" Miguel declared triumphantly.

A chorus of laughter followed, and soon, the four of them were mingling with the others. Arizona graciously accepted every congratulations, bowing her head in thanks with that signature calm smile. Miguel kept a protective yet loving hand on her back, his gaze never straying far from her.

Dylan, meanwhile, attempted to engage in small talk with a group of students but couldn't help sneaking glances at Sam. She was radiant in the soft glow of the lanterns, her laughter ringing out as she chatted animatedly with a local shopkeeper. When Sam caught Dylan staring, her brow lifted in amusement.

"Enjoying the view?" she teased.

"Uh-what? No! I mean, yes, but not in like a weird-" Dylan stumbled over his words, his cheeks flushing. "You just... look nice. Really nice."

Sam chuckled, clearly enjoying his flustered state. "Well, lucky for you, I'm all yours tonight."

"Y-Yeah?" Dylan grinned, his heart racing. "Okay. Cool. Definitely not gonna pass out from nerves now."

Across the courtyard, Miguel stole a moment to pull Arizona aside. They stood beneath the lanterns, the soft chatter of the party fading into the background. "I know this might not be the big, fancy engagement party people usually have," Miguel said, his voice low. "But I wanted something that felt... like us."

Arizona's eyes shimmered with unshed tears. "It's perfect."

He leaned in, his forehead resting gently against hers. "I can't wait to spend forever with you."

Before Arizona could reply, a sudden burst of music erupted - an upbeat rhythm, urging people to the small makeshift dance floor. Sam was the first to grab Dylan's hand, dragging him toward the crowd. "Come on, we're dancing!"

"I-I don't know how to dance!" Dylan protested, his feet already stumbling behind her.

"That's what makes it fun!"

Miguel laughed, watching them with fond amusement. "Looks like we don't have a choice."

Arizona grinned, her usual tranquility giving way to the infectious joy of the moment. "Then let's dance."

They joined the crowd, the music pulsing through the night air. Arizona's laughter rang out as Miguel spun her under the lanterns, her flowing skirt twirling around her. Dylan, still hopelessly awkward, attempted to mimic Sam's moves, earning affectionate giggles from her. Every so often, she'd grab his hands and guide him, her grin never fading.

And for once, Dylan didn't mind the eyes on him. Not when Sam was looking at him like that.

As the night wore on, the music slowed. Miguel pulled Arizona close, their bodies swaying gently. "This is one of those moments I'm never gonna forget," he murmured.

"Me too," Arizona whispered back, resting her head against his chest.

Nearby, Sam and Dylan leaned against the bamboo fence, catching their breath. "Okay," Dylan panted, "maybe I'm not a dancer, but I give myself credit for effort."

Sam laughed softly. "I'd say you earned a solid seven out of ten."

"Seven?!"

"Okay, eight. But only because you didn't step on my feet."

They shared a grin, the tension between them gone. The night had become something beautiful - a celebration of love, friendship, and the memories yet to be made. Under the Okinawan sky, laughter echoed, and the warmth of the moment lingered long after the music had faded.

ASH SPEAKS!!!

i love writing these post-cobra kai chapters but ik its almost the end tho... :( i'm actually so done with ghost readers! this is why im so unmotivated to write

RANT TIME!!! (AND JUST LISTEN PLEASE!)

the reason i keep unpublishing and republishing is chapters in a row on this chapter is because when i see views go up and votes aren't... its really annoying. cause its not hard to vote and show support on fanfics.

i dont understand how hard it is for people to vote. i know im annoying with the unpublishing the chapter and republishing every few minutes or hour but its because of these freaking ghost readers.

can you guys please stop being ghost reader and just freaking vote please. this is so annoying

okay end of rant.

PLEASE DONT BE A GHOST READER!!!!!
COMMENT AND VOTE. IT HELPS US WRITERS STAY MOTIVATED:) STOP BEING A GHOST READER!!! PLEASE JUST VOTE!!!!

PLEASE STOP BEING FREAKIN A GHOST READER!!! PLEASE VOTE! PLEASE!!!!! stop being ghost readers!!!! its really annoying!!!

STOP BEING A GHOST READER AND JUST VOTE!!

the reason i keep unpublishing and republishing is chapters is because when i see views go up and votes aren't... its really annoying. cause its not hard to vote and show support on fanfics.

can you guys please stop being ghost reader and just freaking vote please. this is so annoying

THIS IS VERY ANNOYING TO SEE VIEWS GO UP BUT NOT VOTES. its annoying for us writers. so please just vote and comment!! its not that hard!!!!!!

STOP BEING A GHOST READER!!
im so sorry for all the notifications but please stop being a ghost reader!!!! i dont how many times i have to say this. i am so sorry for the notifications but this is really annoying to see views go up when the votes aren't. PLEASE JUST FREAKIN VOTE!!!