After their relationship entered a new phase, Ray threw himself completely into work. He needed to rewrite the code and arrange the funerals.
Kira finally found a moment to talk to her daughter. After listening to her mother, Samantha said:
"If that's what you want, I won't get in your way. As long as you're happy, I don't care. But I have to say, this is a very unexpected turn."
"Yes, it is for me too. I didn't think I'd meet a man who could win my heart."
"I know it's hypocritical of me, but I don't want to let you go," Kira said.
"You don't have to let me go. Just don't forget about me. I'm very glad he's not against our relationship. But if one day you want to — I'll step aside."
"Don't say things like that. Ray and I share memories. He remembers me as someone I'll never be again. But I will never give you up," Kira said confidently, giving her daughter a tender smile.
"And if you ever realize you have feelings for Ray, I'll support you."
"Where did you get that idea?" Samantha asked with interest.
"He's the first man you've spoken about with genuine respect. I'm not going to push you into his arms. Just know that if one day you realize your respect has become something more — I don't mind. But to be honest, I'd like you to be with him."
"It will be dangerous. It might be a one-way ticket. But the truth is, we don't have a chance at a normal life. And I believe Ray is the man who can give you happiness as a woman, despite all the horror we've been through," Kira said.
The conversation with her mother and the image of her enjoying intimacy with Ray made Samantha think deeply.
A few days after her brother returned home, Deya said:
"Brother, I want to switch to homeschooling."
Looking at the girl, Ray smiled tenderly and said:
"I understand your intentions. But just because I'm confined to a wheelchair doesn't mean you have to limit yourself. On the contrary, now you should enjoy life for both of us. I appreciate your care, but you shouldn't give up on yourself. I know that while you were living with Jill and Frank, you made many friends. And you shouldn't abandon them."
"I've thought a lot and decided to reduce the intensity of your training. I shouldn't steal your childhood. So enjoy it while you can."
Realizing her brother was serious, Deya didn't argue. The intensity of her training did decrease — and she was able to reconnect with her friends.
Now Yuno was basking in Ray's embrace.
"You should know: Kira and I crossed the line. I just wanted to show her that she could feel something other than disgust toward men. But I didn't notice how carried away I got."
"You don't need to explain anything to me. It was obvious to me that Kira would sooner or later become one of my sisters. It's a good choice."
"Am I really that predictable?" Ray asked with a chuckle.
"In some matters, yes. You get too attached to people with whom you have warm memories. That's one of the reasons you saved Miku."
"But I've been a good daughter and deserve a reward. So don't make me wait too long, Daddy."
"Almost everything is ready. Give me a couple more days."
Yuno had trouble restraining her urges, but she still managed.
"Would you mind staying with Jill and Frank for about a month? Maybe a little longer. I'm preparing a surprise for Yuno," Ray asked Deya.
"Yes, don't worry. It won't be a problem for me. I'm very happy for Yuno. It'll be interesting to see her reaction when I call her 'Mommy.'"
"You're not just my brother. You've been like a father to me. So this will be interesting. But don't hurt big sis Yuno," Deya said playfully.