The morning breeze drifted gently through the entrance of the Ricci estate.
Neither Rafael nor Aria wanted to let go.
Their hands remained intertwined.
As though letting go would mean losing each other all over again.
Rafael looked deeply into her tear-filled eyes.
After a long silence...He finally smiled.
A tired...Gentle...Loving smile.
"Okay."
Aria blinked.
"...What?"
Rafael slowly nodded.
"I accept your decision."
She stared at him in disbelief.
"You do?"
"I do."
He gently brushed away another tear from her cheek.
"If becoming stronger is your dream..."
"I'll never stand in the way of it."
"You've already sacrificed enough for me."
"This time..."
"I'll support your dream."
Aria's eyes became even redder.
"But..."
Rafael interrupted softly.
"I still don't think you have anything to prove."
"You've always been worthy."
"You always will be."
He smiled sadly.
"But if this is the path your heart has chosen..."
"I'll walk beside you."
