"And that is my story, our story."
Jousuke's voice rang clear through the hall. He let the words settle, glancing at the guests. Their attentive, warm faces reflected the journey he had shared—every moment, every struggle, every choice that had led him here.
He turned slightly to Kaede, catching her eyes. She smiled softly, the silver-white strands of her hair shimmering under the lights, her glasses reflecting a quiet sparkle. He took a deep breath, feeling the weight and beauty of all the memories, the love, and the people who had shaped him.
"Love is messy, complicated, and sometimes painful," he continued, voice gentle yet firm, "but it is also beautiful, pure, and worth every step. And with the right person, it is everything. Kaede… you are my everything."
The guests held their breath, some with tears glistening. Kaede's hands trembled slightly as she reached for his. Her lips curved into a soft, radiant smile.
"And I love you, Jousuke," she whispered, her voice carrying years of quiet affection, trials, and care. "Always."
A wave of warmth enveloped them as their hands intertwined. Jousuke's eyes softened, a quiet sense of completion settling over him. He turned briefly to the crowd, acknowledging every friend and family member who had been part of their journey.
Then, Kaede took the microphone.
"Thank you, everyone," she began, her voice steady, yet tender. "It's been a long journey to this day. And while this story is about Jousuke and me, it would never have been possible without the friends who supported us… especially Leah Boutsuki-san and Rika Sakurai-san."
A murmur ran through the audience, and both Leah and Sakurai-san smiled softly, touched by the acknowledgment.
"They were brave, honest, and full of love, and even though they weren't the ones I would ultimately walk with, their feelings, their courage, and their support shaped everything. I am grateful to them, and to everyone who has been part of our lives."
Kaede paused, letting her words sink in, before looking at Jousuke. "And now, we step forward together, hand in hand, to create our own story, one filled with love, care, and memories that will last a lifetime."
The guests erupted in applause, some dabbing at their eyes, others cheering softly. Jousuke and Kaede turned toward the crowd together, hands clasped tightly, radiating warmth and happiness.
As the applause died down, the ceremony concluded. Friends and family offered congratulations, laughter and chatter filling the hall. The wedding had reached its serene, beautiful close, the culmination of a story that began in classrooms, parks, and quiet moments shared across seasons and years.
Jousuke and Kaede held each other's hands tightly, sharing a quiet smile as the sun's golden light streamed through the windows. Outside, a new chapter of their lives began, full of love, promise, and the echoes of a journey that had touched so many hearts.
The novel ends here, leaving behind the story of Jousuke Daikuhara and Kaede Miyazaki, a story of love, choices, friendship, and a lifetime of affection.