The Road to the Promised Land: Chapter 58

The Promised Land :Previous «Home Page» Next: The Wedding
==Homecoming==
Sunday June 2
Tiara Château Hôtel Mont Royal Chantilly, La Chapelle-en-Serval, France
10:05 AM CEST (9:05 AM BST)
After they've won the very eventful UEFA Champions League final, the Manchester United players partied for a while in the dressing room at the Stade de France. Lots of dancing and drinking were in the menu. Yusuke even took a champagne shower without swimming goggles to confirm his status as a party animal, as Kakeru previously said! By the time that the Manchester United team returned to their hotel more or less drunk from all the celebrations, it was nearly 3:30 AM local time.
Kakeru was still asleep in the middle of that morning before he felt the poke of a finger on his face.
"Mmm... What is it?" Kakeru mumbled.
"You're finally awake." Nana replied.
Kakeru's eyes finally opened up. Nana's smile was beaming as she was lying naked under the bedsheets, just like Kakeru as well.
"Ohayou (Good morning)." Nana said.
"Ohayou, Nana. What time is it?" Kakeru asked.
"It's 10:05 AM now."
"Have you been awake for long?"
"More or less 10 minutes ago, Kakeru."
"You could have woken me up."
"I just wanted to look at your sleepy face a little longer."
"Come here now."
Nana leaned forward before she started deep-kissing Kakeru, throwing one leg across his thighs as well. Kakeru returned the kiss for a good minute before he finally broke the kiss to catch his breath.
"I wanted to say that I'm sorry." Kakeru said.
"For what?" Nana asked.
"I couldn't have that quality time with you when we got back here. My body was feeling a little too sore; I guess that's because of the final and the long season. I was also a little dizzy after all the drinking and the partying." Kakeru said.
"My body was telling me the same. It's fine since we still have the whole summer ahead. It's not like we didn't have our share of quality time already during the season." Nana replied with a smile before Kakeru smiled back as well.
"Yeah, you're right."
Then Kakeru took a glance at the nightstand on which he saw his own UEFA Champions League winner's medal.
"We really won it, did we?" Kakeru asked.
"Yeah, we won the whole thing." Nana replied
Then Nana reached to the nightstand on her side to grab her own winner's medal as well.
"How about you get your medal around your neck?" Nana asked. "I can take a mirror selfie of us in bed, medals around our necks, and then post the photo on social media."
"You're sure about it?" Kakeru asked back.
"Just make sure to show off the medals and to cover your chest. It's going to be fine. After all, people will love that stuff."
"Okay. Why not?"
Kakeru and Nana obliged by putting their medals around their necks. Then both lovers covered their naked chests with the bedsheets while making sure to have their medals fully visible before they looked at the mirror in front of their bed. Finally, Nana took the mirror selfie.
"I swear this will set the internet on fire." Nana said as she took her medal off.
"I'm sure it will." Kakeru replied as he did the same.
Nana went on to post the mirror selfie picture on her social media platforms. Meanwhile, Kakeru grabbed his smartphone as he received a call from Yusuke.
"Yusuke?" Kakeru asked.
"Hope that I'm not disturbing." Yusuke replied.
"Oh, no, no. I was already awake."
"Noriko just gave me some news. She told me that her parents have offered to host tonight's dinner so all 3 of us and our families can celebrate together after the parade."
"Where? In Altrincham?"
"In Altrincham."
"That's great. I really liked it when we went there for Christmas."
"Indeed, it's a really good place. I will text back to Noriko to say that we're on for tonight."
"That's great." Kakeru said.
Then Nana wrapped her bare arms around Kakeru's neck before she moved up in a position to whisper into his ear: "I just never have enough of you, Kakeru."
Hearing those words was enough to make Kakeru pause and turn his head back towards Nana. Ignoring Yusuke at the other end of the call, Kakeru let himself receive a deep kiss from his fiancée.
"I love you." Kakeru whispered back to Nana.
"You still there?" Yusuke asked.
"Uh, yeah, I'm still here." Kakeru replied.
"Let me guess: Nana is right there with you, Kakeru." Yusuke said. "Say hello, Nana!"
"Hello, Yusuke." Nana replied.
"I'll let both of you go for now. We still have a big day ahead of us."
"Yeah, sure. Later, Yusuke." Kakeru finished.
Then Kakeru ended the call on his smartphone. Meanwhile, Nana took a quick look at the reactions to her mirror selfie on social media.
"The photo is going viral as I expected. The likes have been piling up by hundreds and thousands for the last of 3 minutes." Nana said.
"Great!" Kakeru replied.
"What was Yusuke calling for?"
"He said that Noriko's parents will host a dinner at their place tonight for us and our parents to celebrate only among us after the parade."
"That's nice of them. I'm in, Kakeru."
"Told Yusuke the same thing. We'll be there, but I need a shower first." Kakeru finished.
Kakeru got up and stepped off the bed. Licking her lips, Nana's eyes examined every inch of her fiancé's body before she grabbed her own smartphone. Before Kakeru could move, he heard the clicking sound that meant Nana just took a picture of the back of his naked body. Then Kakeru turned his body around before Nana took a second picture, full-frontal this time.
"Seriously?" Kakeru asked with his eyebrows raised.
"I just couldn't resist. Your body is just too lovely, back and front alike." Nana replied.
"And you are the only one to have this kind of access to my body from now on." Kakeru smirked. "Those last 2 pictures better not go on the internet."
"They are for my personal collection. Don't worry." Nana put her smartphone on the nightstand. "I'll join you in the shower."
"We still have to pack our bags and then join the boys for lunch before we go to the airport. Can't afford to waste much time now."
"It doesn't have to be the whole thing. A quick and different kind of breakfast should be enough." Nana said, licking her lips seductively.
"Ah, that works for me." Kakeru replied with a grin.
"When I'm with you, baby, I go out of my head. And I just can't get enough, and I just can't get enough." Nana sang in English.
"All the things you do to me and everything you said. I just can't get enough. I just can't get enough." Kakeru followed up, recognizing the Depeche Mode song.
"We slip and slide as we fall in love. And I just can't seem to get enough." Kakeru and Nana finished the singing before they disappeared in the bathroom.
Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, Roissy-en-France, France
1:40 PM CEST (12:40 PM BST)
After one final lunch at the hotel, the Manchester United team and their loved ones were driven to the airport within 20 minutes. A charter flight on an Airbus-made private airliner was set to take them back to Manchester on a 95-minute flight in total luxury, with each seat being fitted with a flat TV screen and a side-table. Just as Kakeru and Nana boarded the plane with medals on their necks, they were greeted by their agent Miwa Shibata, who kept a low profile during the Champions League final and the ensuing celebrations.
"Miwa-san!" Kakeru said.
"Champions of Europe!" Miwa greeted back.
"I'm glad to see you with us for the return flight at least."
"Where were you yesterday?" Nana asked. "My folks said that you were with them when they came to the stadium. After that, you weren't seen until now."
"You should have joined the party with us." Kakeru said.
"Nah, to see you wearing those medals already make me more than proud already as a player agent. And besides, someone had to pick up the calls and read the e-mails since yesterday. You are now in big demand for interviews, magazine covers, talk shows, and a lot more." Miwa replied.
"It was expected." Nana said.
"What are the most noticeable ones wanting us?" Kakeru asked.
"Outside of everybody in Japan, there are a number of them in the UK and in America as well. In the magazines department, I received e-mails from Time Magazine, Sports Illustrated, Newsweek, and ESPN on top of the list." Miwa replied.
"Wow!" Kakeru exclaimed.
"Some heavies right there. And what about the talk shows?" Nana asked.
"Since you Nana were born in America, I have been contacted by Stephen Colbert, James Corden, Oprah Winfrey, and Good Morning America. As for the UK, the only show I paid attention because you love watching it is The Graham Norton Show. On either side of the Atlantic, I will do everything to accommodate you and Kakeru to appear on any show you will choose to be in." Miwa replied.
Kakeru and Nana looked at each other, surprised by the news.
"Some busy summer ahead of us, that." Kakeru said.
"Definitely." Nana replied.
"Don't worry one bit about all of this for now. Just have fun and enjoy this day. We'll take care of the rest in due time." Miwa said.
Kakeru and Nana nodded before Yusuke and Noriko joined them on the plane.
"Shibata-san." Noriko said.
"Noriko-chan." Miwa replied. "I will go to my seat now. This is your day, people. Enjoy it!"
Then Miwa moved into a different compartment in the aircraft's cabin.
"So what were you guys talking about?" Yusuke asked.
"A bunch of people have called Shibata-san for us to do interviews and be on magazine covers in America and in the UK. Some of those are really big names." Kakeru replied.
"Since I was born in America, my exploits have gained a lot of attention over there. When we will feel ready, I'll make sure that Kakeru goes with me on those shows. What is better PR than a sporting couple doing things together after all? Nana added.
"You're right about that. I'm sure those will be good." Noriko replied.
"I can't wait to see those." Yusuke added.
"All in good time." Kakeru said.
Then Matthias came to Kakeru and Nana with the European Cup in his hands.
"We're passing the trophy around. You can take more selfies with it before the club's photographers take pictures of you two holding it or whatever." Matthias said.
"Yeah, for sure." Kakeru replied.
Then Kakeru and Nana posed for a few selfies of their own with the European Cup in their hands while the photographers working for Manchester United took pictures of the young Japanese couple. After the photos were taken, Kakeru took the trophy to look at his own reflection in the very well-polished silver of the European Cup.
"Well, look at this beauty." Kakeru said to himself.
"I can see myself in this too." Nana added.
Then Kakeru handed the trophy to Yusuke and Noriko, who took the seats just behind them.
"It's selfie time or more with this for a few moments, both of you." Kakeru said.
"Yeah. Come to papa." Yusuke replied as he received the trophy.
"Noriko?" Kakeru asked.
"Yeah?" Noriko asked back.
"How many people were said to have attended the parade in 1999?"
"It's never easy to give an accurate number, but the police said that the crowd was around 500,000 people on that day." Noriko answered Kakeru's question.
"Think we can beat that number today?" Nana asked.
"I hope. It's Sunday, and I've been told that The Stone Roses and The Courteeners will be on stage for the party. The masses should be out in numbers today." Noriko replied.
"The weather in Manchester should remain sunny all day according to the forecast. Can't wait for it." Kakeru finished.
Then Kakeru texted something on his smartphone while Nana was just cooling off. Meanwhile, the players and other staff members passed the trophy around in the cabin for more photos before everyone got ready for the upcoming takeoff just after 2:00 PM local time at Roissy-en-France. Then the private airliner took off from the runway before steering a course to the Northwest. The flight home was very smooth in all as it landed in Manchester only 95 minutes later.
Manchester Airport, Manchester, UK
2:40 PM BST
As the airliner was taxiing its way towards the designated stopping location, the plane went under plumes of water expelled by 2 airport fire trucks. The water cannon salute is a touching airport tradition used as a sign of respect, honor, and gratitude for occasions like the retirement of a senior pilot or air traffic controller, the first or last flight of an airline to an airport, the first or last flight of a type of aircraft, the arrival of military veterans or foreign dignitaries, or more. When the plane finally stopped at the designated location on the tarmac, the passenger stairs were brought to the side of the plane for everyone to step off the plane at last.
Leading the march down the stairs were Andrew Butler and Matthias Köhler – the manager and the captain carrying the prestigious trophy. Following behind were the remaining players and staff; most of their loved ones were among the last to step off the plane. Andrew and Matthias took a moment to meet the nearby airport firefighters and airport staff for a pose with the European Cup while everyone else made their way to a shuttle bus that would take them to the terminal.
Kakeru and Nana looked at their respective phones for different reasons. Looking as his own phone, Kakeru saw a reply to his earlier text message.
'Thanks, Ian. This bit will be quite fun on stage.' Kakeru thought.
"What are you looking at?" Nana asked.
"Oh, nothing important. Just random replies." Kakeru replied. "What about you?"
"I'm just scrolling down the news. They say that people are already crowding the parade route between Old Trafford and Albert Square." Nana replied.
"Do they say how many?"
"Already in the thousands."
"This many already? The parade is only set for 5:00 PM."
"I guess Noriko is right. We might have a bigger crowd than the one in 1999." Nana said.
"There is only one way to find out." Kakeru finished.
Old Trafford, Manchester, UK
4:15 PM BST
The players and their families were driven to Old Trafford almost as soon as they were done at the airport. They were getting prepared for the upcoming parade inside the stadium while crowds were increasing in size and massing on the way from Old Trafford to Albert Square. Under the afternoon sun of a nice spring day in Manchester, everyone associated with the Red Devils was ready to live another great moment.
Looking from inside Old Trafford's East Stand and through the glass façade overlooking Sir Matt Busby Way, Kakeru could already feel butterflies in his stomach as he saw the sizeable crowd standing outside. Kakeru and Nana were in the parade crowd alongside Noriko when Manchester United last won a Premier League title in 2013. This was going to be the first time that they would feature at the center of the parade.
"How are you feeling?" Nana asked Kakeru.
"A little jittery. And you?" Kakeru returned the question.
"Same."
All Manchester United players were set to wear a red training jackets over their red polo shirts as well as black training pants.
"It must be weird for you to be in the crowd back in 2013 and now you are part of the main event." Noriko said.
"It sure feels weird." Kakeru replied.
"It's a feeling that will take some time to sink in." Nana added.
"Trust me on one thing: being part of such parade is always fantastic. When you get in one of those, the memory will stick with you forever. You will want to do it again and enjoy giving it back to the fans." Noriko said.
"Noriko is right. Let's enjoy the moment." Yusuke replied.
"I'll join the players' families now. See you later inside Town Hall with your relatives before we go at my parents' home for dinner.
"Yeah. See you later, Noriko." Kakeru finished.
Then Noriko made her way to join the players' families in a reserved area in front of the East Stand and bordering the Sir Matt Busby Way. In that reserved area, the families were greeted by club mascot Fred the Red – an anthropomorphic red devil that owes its reference to the club's nickname, The Red Devils. Nana took the opportunity to film a few more videos of the special occasion on her cellphone.
As we approached 4:30 PM, PA announcer Alan Keegan made his way to the top floor of a chartered open top bus that was already parked in front of the East Stand several minutes ago. The open top bus, which has been repainted to celebrate the club's achievements in the season that just ended, is usually used for sightseeing. Celebrations involving sports teams in the United Kingdom almost always involve a double-decker bus ride at no more than 16 km (10 miles) per hour inside the town or city.
4:25 PM BST
Working as the master of ceremonies, Alan Keegan began to get the crowd going with some noise. The sound of his voice resonating in the speakers told the crowd that the players were about come out soon.
Alan Keegan: Now on behalf of the club, a massive thank you for turning up today. Of course, we have a great sunshine today. Are you in a joyous mood, Manchester?
The crowd gave a loud round of cheers.
Alan Keegan: Now we have been told there are thousands of fans ready in Albert Square to meet the bus when it comes with the trophies and the team, but... let's hear it because, Old Trafford, we want you to be loud and proud today. LET'S MAKE SOME NOISE AND LET'S SHOW THE WORLD WHAT MANCHESTER UNITED SOUNDS LIKE!
The crowd responded with a wall of cheers followed by the loud singing of the "CAMPEÓNES!" song. After a full minute of singing, Alan Keegan picked up the microphone again to explain how things would go in the next few minutes.
Alan Keegan: Now in a few moments, Old Trafford, we are going to introduce the players. We will have a quick chat with the players and, of course, the last person on the bus will be the Boss. Now just to let you know, we do have some of the family members as well. Let's have a big cheer for all the family members and the players' friends who are here at the side of the bus. Let's hear it for them! Also Owen Colman, who's looking after them down there! Well done, Owen! Doing the business as always.
The crowd gave another the round of cheers. The families and the players' friends received the warm welcome this time, and so did Owen in his work as a steward.
Alan Keegan: And of course, we do have a very special walk for when the players make it along the aisle down from that side of the front of Sir Matt Busby Way. The players will be with us very shortly. We're gonna get them on the bus and have a chat. We want the song, we want the atmosphere because today, Old Trafford, the eyes of the world are on us. Are you ready to be observed?
"YEEEEEEAAAHH!!!" the crowd replied.
Alan Keegan: Are you ready to sing?
The crowd cheered before they started singing out loud various songs of praise for the club. As the clock struck 4:30 PM not long after, the first players to show up were the captain and the vice-captain – Matthias Köhler and Nikolaj Kristiansen. They made their way in the open aisle that was guarded by security guards and police officers.
Alan Keegan: Now I want you, Old Trafford, to raise the roof because we have the captain and the vice-captain, MATTHIAS KÖHLER AND NIKOLAJ KRISTIANSEN!!!
The cheers went even louder as Matthias and Nikolaj walked forward and waved to the crowd, Premier League trophy in hand. After making their way inside the open deck bus and on the upper deck, Matthias and Nikolaj posed with the trophy for the club's official photographer. Then both players hoisted the trophy in the air to get the crowd pumped up even more.
Alan Keegan: Matthias... Let's have a quick chat, Matthias, Nikolaj. What a fantastic achievement! A Premier League title, the FA Cup, and, most importantly, the European Cup. What does it feel like?
Matthias: Oh, it's really amazing. It's always a great feeling to share our victories with our fans and hoist any trophy for them. But to win all 3 in one season, it's the wildest a dream can get. We really enjoyed it yesterday, we are enjoying it today, and we want to enjoy it for as long as possible. But we also know that we want to go for more next season. We are going to fight our way to win more trophies and enjoy this feeling many more times!
Alan Keegan: Nikolaj, we have seen you guys celebrate when we won the League and when we won the FA Cup. But the celebrations after yesterday's final must have been special. We have seen you guys show how much it meant to win the big one yesterday. Would you say that yesterday was a lot more special?
Nikolaj: When you write a winning chapter in the glorious history of this club, it is always special. But to win the European Cup after we've won the League and the FA Cup... it's beyond anything we could have wished for in one season. We worked hard to bring back a winning culture at Manchester United, but we made that big step. Now we will have more steps ahead of us to go back to work and to win trophies again. That's how to be a winner!
Alan Keegan: That's how to be a winner! Fantastic! Let's give it to Matthias and Nikolaj, Old Trafford!
The crowd cheered for their club's captain and vice-captain, but then the cheers grew even louder as soon as Nana showed up in the walking aisle with the FA Cup in her hands.
Alan Keegan: Now, Old Trafford, LET'S HEAR IT FOR NANA MISHIMA!!!
Just as Nana walked her way to the open top bus, the crowd went from cheering to singing the song that has been attached with Nana on the tune of "Freed from Desire"
WANT MORE AND MOREPEOPLE JUST WANT MORE AND MOREPASSES, SHOTS, AND GOALS, WHAT SHE'S LOOKING FORWANT MORE AND MOREPEOPLE JUST WANT MORE AND MORETRICKS, FLICKS, AND TURNS, WHAT SHE'S LOOKING FOR
NANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENCE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENCE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIREYOUR DEFENCE IS TERRIFIEDNANA'S ON FIRE
NA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA NANA NA NA NA NA NA NA, NA NA NA NA NA.
As soon as Nana made her way to the upper deck of the bus, she took a moment to pose for a few photos with the Premier League trophy only and then with the FA Cup only. The Little Witch pumped up the crowd even more by hoisting the FA Cup up in the air before she went to have that quick chat with Alan Keegan.
Alan Keegan: Nana... What a turnout by the best fans in the world! And I will tell you something: your entry into the game really changed turned the tide of the final yesterday. Wasn't she brilliant, Old Trafford?
"YEEEEEEAAAHH!!!" the crowd replied.
Nana: Well, I knew that I had to be patient so I can have a greater effect in the final. Sure you don't want to sit on the bench as a player, especially not in a cup final, but the manager knew what he was doing. The break came at a perfect time. Then I made life as difficult as possible for the other team. Still, all of this is a brilliant team effort where all of us made it possible.
Alan Keegan: You and Kakeru were celebrating among those fantastic fans back in 2013. How does it feel to be now a focal point in the celebrations?
Nana: It's brilliant to be a part of this. There's a perfect sunshine today, the fans are going to pack the streets no matter what, and everyone is enjoying the moment. This is a great club with great fans, and long may this great support continue!
Alan Keegan: OLD TRAFFORD, LET'S HEAR IT FOR NANA MISHIMA!!!
The crowd gave one last round of loud cheers for Nana before more players began to make their way forward in pairs. The players who did not have to carry a trophy to the bus took a few moments to sign a few autographs as they made their way forward. Each player posed for the photos with either the Premier League trophy or the FA Cup.
Meanwhile, Kakeru and Yusuke were ready to walk their out of the stadium and into the aisle, with the European Cup in their hands. Both players knew that they were about to receive the loudest standing ovation thus far in the day.
"Are you ready to go?" Kakeru asked.
"Yeah. Anytime you are." Yusuke replied.
"Kakeru, Yusuke. Good to go!" a steward told them to proceed after he was informed by another steward that both players could get going.
"Let's go, Yusuke." Kakeru said.
As Kakeru and Yusuke walked their way forward with the European Cup, the crowd gave the loudest round of cheers. Every single fan with a smartphone in hand took videos and photos of the moment when the European Cup came within sight. Finally making it on the upper deck, Kakeru and Yusuke were introduced to the crowd by Alan Keegan
Alan Keegan: Old Trafford, please make it loud and let's hear it for KAKERU AIZAWA AND YUSUKE SAEKI!!!
After the cheering, the fans started chanting Kakeru's song to the tune of "Agadoo".
AIZAWA, WA, WA, HE'S BETTER THAN KAGAWAAIZAWA, WA, WA, HE'S A RED AND WHITE NINJATO THE LEFT, TO THE RIGHT, HE'S A BLOODY DYNAMIYEWHEN HE PLAYS FOR THE RED, HE MAKES BERNARDI LOOK SHITE.
After Kakeru posed for photos with each of the 3 trophies and hoisted all 3 trophies, it was his turn to be having a chat with Alan Keegan.
Alan Keegan: The man with 45 goals in all competitions for the club this season. Kakeru... You and Nana were celebrating the 2013 Premier League title in the crowd. What does it feel like to be now a Treble winner?
Kakeru: It feels absolutely amazing! And I want to thank all of you guys for all of your support since my first day in Manchester as a young kid on a tryout to join Manchester United. It has been quite a journey for Nana and I since 2013, but it was quite worth all of the wait. I'm loving every moment.
Alan Keegan: Kakeru Aizawa, ladies and gentlemen! Thank you, Kakeru.
Having finished the little talk, Kakeru walked his way to stand right next to Nana.
"I head they greeted you with your song." Kakeru said.
"They also did the same for you." Nana replied. "How do you feel now?"
"I can't wait to be in Albert Square and to dance like we did in 2013."
"We will get there soon, Kakeru."
"Hope you have your camera ready. We will have a lot of memories to keep with this crowd." Kakeru said.
"I do. This is going to be amazing." Nana replied.
More players and members of the backroom staff got their way onto the bus. A few minutes later – around 4:50 PM, the Manchester manager Andrew Butler closed the procession as he was the last man to get on the bus. The crowd also gave him some of the loudest cheers as he took his place on the upper deck.
Alan Keegan: Old Trafford... Once again, let's give a big cheer to the Boss himself... ANDREW BUTLER!!!
Then Alan Keegan gave Andrew the microphone.
Andrew: Thank you! This is fantastic! When I see this team, the staff, and all of our fans, I really feel proud to be a part of Manchester United. All of you did us proud all season long and will do us proud in the future. It's a young squad, and they will only get better as they go along. You're the best fans in the world, and I know that you will show them a great support in the next few years and even beyond. Whatever else has happened this season, I want you to remember this moment because those 3 trophies right here... BELONG TO US!!!
The crowd and the players alike exulted once more. The party was definitely on.
Alan Keegan: Old Trafford, let's hear it for Andrew Butler! So see you back down in Albert Square. Enjoy the parade! Enjoy the journey!
Then more security guards and police officers moved in to surround the open top bus. At the same time, the players' families and friends were escorted to a coach bus set to follow right behind the open top bus. The slow drive of the 2 buses would be covered by 2 police vans used as extra security. Nevertheless, the heavy security did not disrupt the festive mood anywhere.
On the bus, the 3 trophies were moved to the front of the upper deck so the people could see them well during the whole parade. For a few minutes, the crowd kept on singing until the bus was finally given the signal to go ahead at 5:00 PM.
"Here we go!" Kakeru said.
"All right!" Nana replied.
Meanwhile, Matthias already picked up the microphone from Alan Keegan to lead the chanting on the bus and throughout the crowd.
CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEONES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!
And thus the celebratory bus ride began in the streets of Manchester.
Moving almost at a walking pace under tight security and police escort, the parading convoy of vehicles first drove to the South on Sir Matt Busby Way before they turned to the East (to the left) on the segment of A56 main road known as Chester Road. Then the vehicles continued on that road as it went north-eastwards under the name of Bridgewater Way. Since the parade was moving at a slow pace, it allowed many supporters from the crowd outside Old Trafford to walk their way forward on other routes to join a much larger crowd inside Manchester city centre. A chunk of supporters also marched alongside the bus. Regardless, thousands of people stood along the path to salute their champions.
On the bus, the players waved and even threw a few pieces of memorabilia as giveaways (hats, scarves, etc.) to the crowd. But from time to time, the MUTV reporter assigned on the open top bus took a moment to give a quick live interview to one or two players at the time. Yusuke was next to give his impressions on the ongoing celebrations.
MUTV reporter: Well, Yusuke, I guess that moving from Japan to Manchester was worth it when you see this parade today. Isn't it?
Yusuke: Oh, it's greater than anything I expected. So many people. It's... really incredible.
MUTV reporter: How does it feel be now in everyone's memory as a Treble winner?
Yusuke: I sure don't want to wake up from this dream, you know. Every little kid dreams of winning something with a big European club. It's great to win one, but it's... unique to win the 3 big ones and to celebrate the achievement with everyone – the fans, the players, the staff. And to see such outpouring of... happiness, it is special.
MUTV reporter: Well, obviously you settled into the season very well in terms of football. But please tell us how does it look like to settle in with the team so quickly.
Yusuke: It's been really good. Everyone on the team have been nice. Everyone wants to share success and to be a part of something. They are good guys, we enjoy fun times, we support each other, and we work hard to become better together.
MUTV reporter: One last thing: if you had to describe this season in one, what would it be?
Yusuke: In one word? Legendary.
MUTV reporter: All right. Thanks, Yusuke.
After the interview, Yusuke was joined by Kakeru and Nana.
"You're enjoying every moment for sure, Yusuke." Kakeru said.
"I never thought that Manchester had so many people. Not only men and women, but also a lot of children. I think I have seen many babies in the crowd too. It's amazing." Yusuke replied.
"This is what soccer means to an entire community when you achieve success, especially for a city as crazy for the game as Manchester." Nana said.
"Make the most of this moment. Enjoy it all because you will want to live through more moments like today." Kakeru said.
"For sure." Yusuke replied.
"Looks like we're arriving at Deansgate soon." Kakeru finished.
Kakeru saw the Deansgate railway bridge in the distance as the parade route on A56 led straight towards it. By the time the bus got underneath and beyond the railway bridge to formally enter the main road known as Deansgate, it was 5:47 PM. From there, the sight almost felt like entering a whole different world as the bus had to move through a sea of people. The streets were fully crowded and packed as far as the eye could see. Some people were hanging off lampposts and street signs, coming out of windows in nearly every single building bordering the street, and even hanging on some not-so-safe areas from buildings. Nevertheless, the parade continued on Deansgate until it turned to the East (to the right) on John Dalton Street to make the final stretch towards Albert Square. As the bus moved closer to their final destination, music and a singing crowd could be heard by the players.
"Oh! I know that tune." Kakeru said.
"Me too." Nana replied.
"Noriko's favorite song from her favorite band – The Courteeners." Yusuke said.
"Yeah! They must be pumping the crowd up right now." Kakeru replied.
"I better text Noriko now. She will be screaming like a fangirl." Nana said.
"That's for sure!" Kakeru replied with a laugh.
Indeed, the 12,000+ crowd gathered in Albert Square were entertained by Manchester's own The Courteeners, who got the show going with "Are You in Love with a Notion?" to pump the crowd up.
Run away from this godforsaken placeAnd hide away from everybody's prying faceYou told Deborah that he is the oneYou're going to quit DebenhamsElope and get married in the sun
Have you really thought this through, oh-oh-oh-oh?Is he really the one for you, oh-oh-oh-oh?Why are you so in love with, why are you so in love with a notion?It doesn't do you any good, it doesn't do you any good at allWhy are you so in love with, why are you so in love with a notion?It doesn't do you any good, it doesn't do you any good at all
The song carried on just as the open top bus appeared in sight of Albert Square. By the time that the police officers and security guards opened up a corridor for the bus to arrive a few yards away from the stage, the song entered its last third with the crowd fully adding its voice to the singers.
I don't know if he'd stay or if he'd be on his pedaloCramping from the frantic paceYou told Alison next doorThat all your dreams were madeBut then your home screen flashed some moreHe never was one for serenade
Have you really thought this through?Is he really the one, really the one?
At that moment, several players, who knew the chorus, started singing out loud as well. The bus had already stopped at its final destination at 6:15 PM.
Why are you so in love with, why are you so in love with a notion?It doesn't do you any good, it doesn't do you any good at allWhy are you so in love with, why are you so in love with a notion?It doesn't do you any good, it doesn't do you any good at all(Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh! Woah-oh-oh-oh-oh!)
Then the players, still on the upper deck of the bus, waited for the song in order to synchronize the last note with the hoisting of the 3 trophies in front of the crowd. When the crowd got pumped up enough, Liam Fray – leader of The Courteeners announced the next song.
Liam Fray: This next song is called "Not Nineteen Forever", but we'll change it today into "Not Twenty Forever."
At the same time, the players' parents and families already left the coach bus to enter the nearby Manchester Town Hall building. Nevertheless, Noriko snuck her way onto the team's double-decker bus. Yusuke was the most surprised when he saw Noriko joining him on the upper deck.
"What are you doing here?" Yusuke asked.
"I was not going to miss this by any means. Oh, never." Noriko replied.
"Your lucky day." Kakeru finished while Nana smiled.
Liam Fray: Let's see you all jump in Manchester, up and down. All ears. Let's see that bus shake, lads.
As it did at Old Trafford exactly 3 weeks ago, the beating of the drums in full blast was the signal for the crowd to start dancing. On the double-decker bus, the players started to jump to get on with the song as well.
She tried to peel me off the pavementTried to insinuate sometimesI am in danger of going too farSaid, "would I like to go for tea and toast?""Get your hand off my thigh"In the car, she turned to me and said
You're not twenty forever, pull yourselves together!I know it seems strange, but things they changeOlder woman and younger manBoth of them doing all they can
Trying to get your attentionAll night long asked you once, I asked you twiceAsked you four times if you'd like to dance to that song
Front crawled the crowd down the stairsAnd then I followed you out in the rainNowhere to be found, never mindYou'll probably never look that pretty again
You're not twenty forever, pull yourselves together!I know it seems strange, but things they changeOlder woman and ever so slightly younger manGod bless the band, they're doing all they can
During the entire performance from the band, Noriko was filming the scene from her position on the bus's top deck. Everyone, including herself, was singing in full voice this Mancunian classic.
You're not twenty forever, pull yourselves together!I know it seems strange, but things they changeOlder woman and ever so slightly younger manGod bless the band, they're doing all they can
Liam Fray: Manchester, your champions!
The crowd gave a very loud round of applause for the team as the song entered its final phase as well.
You're not twenty forever!You're not twenty forever!You're not twenty forever!It's not big, you're definitely not clever.
The song finally came to a close under raucous cheers from the crowd. Then Liam Fray gave the fans one last word to the crowd.
Liam Fray: Everybody, enjoy your evening. Let's hear it for the team!
Alan Keegan: ALBERT SQUARE... THE COURTEENERS!
As the band exited the stage, Alan Keegan resumed his job as the master of ceremonies for the occasion.
Alan Keegan: Albert Square, this is now the official Theatre of Dreams. This is the home of the greatest football club in the world! The home of the Treble winners... MANCHESTER UNITED!!!
This little bit of speech got the crowd roaring once more.
Alan Keegan: Ladies and gentlemen, we are going to invite the players onto the stage. We have The Stone Roses here to give them a proper entrance. Let's lift the team! Let's make it proud and loud in Manchester this evening! Let's hear it for the players as they will come to celebrate, but let's hear it first for... THE STONE ROSES!!!
Under a standing ovation, the Manchester-based alternative rock band known since the 1980s stepped onto the stage. The band's leading man, Ian Brown came to greet the crowd first.
Ian Brown: Hello, Manchester! We won the big one yesterday, yeah?
The crowd roared in response.
Ian Brown: Let's hear it to the players on this next song because... This is the one!
This was the signal for the band to play the next song: "This is the One" – the entrance theme for the team at Old Trafford.
A girl consumed by fireWe all know her desireFrom the plans that she has madeI have her on a promiseImmerse me in your splendourAll the plans that I have made
This is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneShe's waited for
This is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneOh, this is the oneThis is the oneShe's waited for
In that small break in the lyrics, the players began to leave the double decker bus to walk their way onto the stage while Noriko moved on to join the other families inside the Town Hall building. Since the stage was built to be large enough to receive both a playing band and the team, the players and the supporting staff had no problem in finding room on the stage.
I'd like to leave the countryFor a month of SundaysBurn the town where I was bornIf only she'd believe meBellona, belladonnaBurn me out or bring me home
And this is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneShe's waited for
This is the oneThis is the oneThis is the oneOh, this is the oneThis is the oneI've waited for
As the song carried on, more Manchester United players and staff got onto the stage. The 3 trophies were put on pedestals so the fans could see them. After the song ended, Alan Keegan picked up the mic once again to get a few words from certain players.
Alan Keegan: Albert Square, Manchester, this is the home of the Treble winners, the home of Manchester United! Of course, we'll have a chat with the boys. Let's start with your captain... Matthias Köhler! Matthias... how do you feel now when you see all of those fans?
Matthias: You know... First of all, on behalf of the players I just want to say "Thanks for coming out in numbers today." It really means a lot to all of us. We love you all!
Alan Keegan: Great words of acknowledgment there. Matthias, you were in Berlin for the big party after you won the World Cup back in 2014. How would you compare the party back then and now?
Matthias: (Laughs) It was very special to be celebrated like royalty when we won the World Cup in 2014. Those are memories to be cherished for sure. But to celebrate any great achievement with your friends, with your co-workers, and the community that is your own for 10-11 months every year, it's a whole different kind of special. Moments like this are the best in my life and you want them to last forever.
Alan Keegan: Before we let you go, is there something else you want to say about this team?
Matthias: The group of people behind me... I can't even begin to tell you how much resiliency, commitment to win, determination, and attitude they have. They are the greatest bunch of people you'll ever meet. And let me tell you this: for all of those people here, the city of Manchester... you have been bloody amazing for all of those years. The support we have received through the tough times and the good times has been first class. We love you guys and we will go after more trophies for more trophies because you deserve them too. Thank you, Manchester!
Alan Keegan: Matthias Köhler, ladies and gentlemen!
The crowd gave another round of applause to their captain while Alan Keegan was already preparing to speak to the next player: Kakeru.
Alan Keegan: Of course, Kakeru Aizawa! The man who made the back of the net bulge 45 times in all competitions for United. It's a new record for a player in the Premier League era. But more importantly, he scored the equalizing goal and the winning goal in the Champions League final. Kakeru... you see all of those fantastic fans out here. What does it mean to you personally?
Kakeru: Oh, it just means everything. I just couldn't believe the turnout today. I was standing in the crowd to celebrate back in 2013, but I never thought that anything could be better than that. To see this many people, it's just incredible. A big "thank you" to everyone. It has been a massive season for all of us. And you know what? WE WON IT ALL!!!
Kakeru's last shout got the crowd erupting in cheers once more.
Alan Keegan: Before we move on to the next person, I heard you have a little surprise for us. What is it?
Kakeru: Well, I texted Ian Brown and told him that one of our players needs a special introduction. So he accepted it. I will join the Stone Roses in singing the next song. It's a song that most people know here in Manchester.
Alan Keegan: Ah, that sounds really interesting. Albert Square, let's hear it for KAKERU AIZAWA AND THE STONE ROSES!!!
Not knowing what to expect, the crowd gave a polite round of applause. Nana was left a little perplexed by Kakeru's decision to sing in front of the audience. Microphone in hand, Kakeru checked a few last things with the band.
"You all know what to do. Everything's all right?" Kakeru asked.
"Yeah. For the theatrical part with your girl, that's up to you." Ian replied.
"She will love the surprise." Kakeru finished.
As soon as Kakeru and the Stone Roses were ready on center stage, the first musical notes took off. The crowd quickly recognized the tune before they started dancing along. Then Kakeru and Ian led forward with the vocals.
I can feel the earth begin to moveI hear my needle hit the grooveAnd spiral through another dayI hear my song begin to sayKiss me where the sun don't shineThe past was yoursBut the future's mineYou're all out of time
I don't feel too steady on my feetI feel hollow, I feel weakPassion fruit and holy breadFill my guts and ease my headThrough the early morning sunI can see her, here she comes
At that moment, Kakeru turned his gaze towards Nana. His hand was reaching towards her in the distance.
She bangs the drums
Have you seen her, have you heard?The way she plays, there are no wordsTo describe the way I feel
How could it ever come to pass?She'll be the first, she'll be the lastTo describe the way I feelThe way I feel
"Shall we dance, Darling?" Kakeru asked.
Pleasantly surprised by Kakeru's public reiteration of his love through the popular rock song, Nana smiled and blushed furiously. Prompted by her teammates, she accepted Kakeru's offer to dance with him until the end of the song. Needless to say, the crowd cheered for the dancing couple as Kakeru continued his part of the singing.
Have you seen her, have you heard?The way she plays, there are no wordsTo describe the way I feel
How could it ever come to pass?She'll be the first, she'll be the lastTo describe the way I feelThe way I feel
Have you seen her, have you heard?The way she plays, there are no wordsTo describe the way I feel
How could it ever come to pass?She'll be the first, she'll be the lastTo describe the way I feelThe way I feel.
With the song coming towards its end, Kakeru lifted Nana up in his arms before they shared a lover's kiss. The crowd gave one more round of applause to Kakeru and Nana.
Kakeru: Thank you, Manchester! This is Nana! She's the drummer because she sets the tone for the team!
Alan Keegan: Wow, what an introduction by Kakeru Aizawa and the Stone Roses! Come in to say a few words, Nana. Let's hear it for the leader in assists and the scorer of 16 goals in the season... NANA MISHIMA!!!
Nana was greeted with loud cheers from the massive crowd as she joined Alan Keegan for the little talk.
Alan Keegan: Nana... Born in America, raised in Japan, and now a proud woman of Manchester. What does it mean to be here tonight with all of these fans, for the greatest football club in the world?
Nana: Yeah, it means everything, really. We have been working hard for so many years to rebuild a new team that can win the big trophies, which we finally did. I was in that huge crowd back in 2013, and I know that it meant so much for the players back then. To see such a turnout as a token of appreciation today makes me feel very proud of playing for this club. Playing in front of such a fanbase is amazing. You can never forget moments like this, ever.
Alan Keegan: We're proud of Nana Mishima. Are we, Albert Square? Thank you, Nana!
Nana went back with the rest of the team after that small moment in the spotlight. Then after a few quick chats with other players, it was the manager's turn to answer Alan Keegan's questions and to give his impressions to the crowd.
Alan Keegan: Albert Square, Old Trafford, Manchester... please give the warmest of all welcomes to the gaffer, the man who got this team together, and the man who can finally now stand alongside Sir Matt Busby and Sir Alex Ferguson as managers who have won the European Cup for this club... ANDREW BUTLER!!!
The 12,000+ crowd at Albert Square gave a loud and proud ovation to the manager, who always receives a tremendous amount of respect in the hearts of British football fans whenever success is achieved. Respectfully, Alan Keegan gave the microphone to Andrew so the latter could give his own speech.
Andrew: Well, what a turnout! That's a fantastic moment! I'll try to do this quick and not get too emotional. There are a few people I'd like to thank for making this possible. First, I would name about everybody on the board of directors and, especially, Sir Alex Ferguson for bringing me in and for believing in us coaches that we could get the job done. It's amazing and I really appreciate that. Everyone believed in our plan and kept a commitment to it. Second of all, our families... You cannot measure the level of sacrifices they – parents, spouses, girlfriends and so on had to make so our players could go and do their job at the highest level. I appreciate your support, and this is the reward at the end of their long journey. Love you all.
The crowd responded with another round of applause.
Andrew: Our first-team staff... I'm the manager and that is what it is. But our staff... Michael Schneider, Kieran O'Sullivan, Neil Hawkins, Jayden Steele, Ridley Nolan, Ethan Hunter, Helen Turner, James Llewelyn, and all of our support staff, I mean... they do all of the heavy lifting. Honestly, you wouldn't have any idea about how much they do to make us be successful. Those people are incredible, they do such an incredible job, and they make my job easier. And when it comes to the players, I... I couldn't be any prouder of all of them. Each of the players has a story, and I could go through every single one of them to talk about the sacrifices they had to make for our team. I'm so happy for all of them, I'm proud of them, and I love this team.
Andrew was almost in tears as he spoke about his players. The crowd gave him an ovation in response, encouraging him to carry on.
Andrew: You know... When I came here a few years ago, I remember that chat I had with Sir Alex (Ferguson) and Sir Bobby (Charlton). They were adamant that the city of Manchester and our fans, they are amazing and we need to get them back to the joys of winning. The level of support from the board, especially from Sir Alex and Sir Bobby has been amazing. As we got going, we started to believe that we could go on and accomplish something great. Now that I see this many people out here to celebrate, I think it's beginning to sink in for me. I thank you all for your support. It has been incredible and it was a massive difference-maker as we moved closer to each trophy. I'm so happy to be a small part in bringing the Premier League and the European Cup back to Manchester, to our amazing fans in Manchester and for all our fans from all over the world. You deserve it. Thank you for letting me be a part of it! Thank you!
The crowd finally gave the loudest cheers of the day in appreciation to those words from the heart. With the ceremony almost coming to a close, Alan Keegan led the crowd for one last salute to the team.
Alan Keegan: Albert Square, your final countdown. The final "Championes" for the team before they leave us. And Mister Yusuke Saeki is going to lead the chorus, I believe. Thank you! LET'S HEAR IT, ALBERT SQUARE!!!
Indeed, Yusuke stepped forward to take the mic from Alan Keegan in order to lead the singing for his teammates and for the crowd as well. Needless to say, the crowd responded a perfect harmony of their vocal cords as soon as Yusuke began the singing while the players danced on the stage.
CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEÓNES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!CAMPEÓNES! CAMPEONES! OLÉ, OLÉ, OLÉ!
After waving the crowd goodbye, the team left the stage with the 3 trophies. Nevertheless, a few players, including the 3 Japanese players, came back on stage seconds later with the 3 trophies for the final encore, much to the joy of the 12,000+ in the crowd at Albert Square.
When it was all over, the players moved inside the Town Hall building to reunite with their loved ones. The 3 Japanese players did about the same. It was 6:40 PM in Manchester.
"Kake-nii! Nana-nee!" Mito greeted.
"Not to bothered to watch the party from inside the building?" Kakeru asked.
"Not at all. We had the TV monitors showing it all here." Mito replied.
"It was incredible to be a part of this. I hope there will be more moments like today." Nana said.
"Same for me." Kakeru added.
"I have to say that you really put up a show when you were singing for Nana-nee on the stage." Mito said.
"Well, I..." Kakeru said.
Then Kakeru and Nana looked at their parents, who were all smiles and grins as they also saw that moment on the TV monitor. Kakeru and Nana looked slightly embarrassed for a moment.
"Well, I thought that would be a great way to introduce Nana in the celebrations." Kakeru said.
"You always like a great entrance, Kakeru." Nana replied with a smile.
"Well, you sure did what most of us could only dream of: singing with a famous band on the main stage." Noriko said.
"I guess you would have done the same with The Courteeners if you could, Noriko." Kakeru replied.
"Probably, but I would more likely be arrested because I'm so crazy about them."
The group of friends laughed out loud.
"I haven't heard about Sarah. Was she in the parade?" Nana asked.
"She was somewhere on Deansgate with a couple of girl friends. They went to have a bite at a nearby restaurant afterwards." Noriko replied.
"I see. It would have been nice if she made it with us."
"She's okay to let us be just with our respective families for tonight. And besides, she will use her vacation time to be in Japan and to celebrate your wedding in the summer."
"That's good too." Nana said.
"So what is next, guys?" Yusuke asked.
"I guess we will sign the Town Hall's Guestbook and pose for a few pictures with the mayor. Then we can drive to Altrincham for dinner with Noriko's folks." Kakeru replied.
"Let's get this done then. I'm starting to feel hungry." Nana replied.
"Yeah, me too." Noriko added.
"All right, let's do this." Yusuke finished.
Then the 3 Japanese-born Manchester United players went on their way to join their teammates for one last photo-op with the Mayor of Greater Manchester before they were allowed to celebrate wherever and with whoever they wanted.
Altrincham, Greater Manchester, UK
7:45 PM BST
After the events at Albert Square, some players and staff went to pubs while others preferred to celebrate with their parents and other loved ones. Just as Kakeru promised earlier, the Aizawas, the Mishimas and the Saekis went to Noriko's parents' house to have dinner and then to relax a little. Although the dinner started rather late with regards to the usual 6:00 PM-8:00 PM time window for dinner in both British and Japanese people, time was not an issue with the celebratory nature of the day in the Greater Manchester region.
Kakeru and Nana used the Nissan Qashqai to drive the Aizawas while Noriko used her Ford Focus to drive Yusuke and his parents. A special car with a chauffeur hired by Manchester United took care of driving Nana's parents to the right address in Altrincham. At 7:45 PM, Noriko rang the doorbell at her parents' house. 
"Konbanwa, Noriko!" Robert greeted "How was it in Paris? You sure are the lucky one in our family."
"That was the best night of my life as a United fan. I couldn't have hope for a better drama for those 120+ minutes." Noriko replied, hugging her dad.
"I'm sure you will have a lot to tell us about it later." Robert said before he turned towards Kakeru and his friends. "Nice to see you guys again."
"The pleasure is ours, Robert-san." Kakeru replied.
"We were eager to be here." Nana added.
"And we brought our parents with us for this occasion." Yusuke added.
"Very good, very good. The moment is right to make proper introductions now." Robert said.
Then Robert formally introduced himself to Kakeru's parents, to Nana's parents, and to Yusuke's parents. Although the 9 years spent working with the British Chamber of Commerce in Japan are an increasingly distant memory, Robert's Japanese was still very fluent. The middle-aged Englishman created an instant connection with his Japanese guests.
"So that's how Kakeru took it. One bounce of the ball off his chest, left-footed volley out of pure instinct, and BANG! He wins the final. It was totally wild in the stands after that." Mamoru said, describing his view of Kakeru's winning goal.
"An amazing feeling. I have supported United in 5 different decades, but they always find a way to make me feel goosebumps." Robert said. "Well, we can talk a lot more inside. You must be hungry."
"Sure. Thank you, Robert-san." Eiko replied.
Then the entire party entered the house. Noriko came in to help her mother before she saw Taeko already helping with the cooking.
"Tae-nee? I didn't think I'd see you here." Noriko said.
"Having an extra set of hands to help my aunt with the cooking is never a problem." Taeko replied.
"No kidding, Taeko has been very handy from the moment that we thought about hosting a celebratory dinner." Sayuri added.
"It will be a very Japanese celebratory feast tonight, I see." Noriko said.
"We have plenty of sekihan (red bean rice) for the occasion. A few other dishes are almost ready, including tempura and one of your favorites... okonomiyaki." Sayuri replied.
"Nice!" Noriko exclaimed.
Then Kakeru and Nana stepped in the kitchen as well.
"Well, it smells really good here." Nana said.
"You're right. Smells delicious." Kakeru added.
"The heroes of the Champions League final! Congratulations for the win, you guys." Taeko said.
"Thanks, Tae-san!" Nana replied.
"Thanks, Isshiki-san!" Kakeru added.
"If the demand and the prices weren't so high for the tickets, I would have gone to the stadium yesterday. It must have been madness in there." Taeko said.
"It was absolutely crazy. Still I've heard there was quite at atmosphere at Old Trafford yesterday." Kakeru replied.
"Yeah, it was also loud from the moment the comeback began and even more on each of the 3 Manchester United goals after that. The best part came after you guys won. The party started inside the stadium, but it went well into the night afterwards."
"Wow! So much to talk about." Nana said.
"Don't worry. We'll have plenty of time to talk during dinner." Taeko replied.
"That's for sure." Kakeru finished.
After quite a memorable and very eventful day, dinner could finally begin moments later. For Kakeru and Nana, such dinner night following a great victory reminded them of many similar occasions during their high school years. Stories and jokes were exchanged after the meal was finished, sometimes with the help of a few drinks as well.
9:45 PM BST
Later in the evening, people in the house were relaxing a little after dinner was finished. Kakeru and Nana stepped outside of the house for a moment so they could have their own private chat just as they often did following those celebratory dinners from years past.
"Pretty night tonight" Kakeru remarked, looking at the starry sky.
"It is." Nana replied.
"We may have gone a long way since our time in high school, but some things sure never change. I like it that way... because tonight reminded me of those evenings back in high school."
"Yeah, I remember all of those times when you took me home after we had dinner at your old house whenever we celebrated an achievement."
"Mom and Mito-chan didn't stop teasing me about how great of a wife you'd make. That was almost a decade ago."
"I guess they had a sixth sense for those things even before we even knew that we were made to go that step beyond friendship." Nana said.
"They sure did." Kakeru replied.
Kakeru and Nana laughed.
"Well, it's such a unique feeling to be on top of the world by winning the Champions League. We just made a big dream come true." Nana said.
"It's one dream that has come true, but there is still more ahead. First, we have to think about defending our titles and about winning the Club World Cup for next season. Then I will start working so Japan would make it into next World Cup. After we get Japan qualified for the World Cup, it's one game at the time. That's the biggest dream still ahead." Kakeru replied.
"That's right."
"I will forever thank you for supporting me through bad times and good times alike, Nana. I know that the road ahead to the dream will be difficult, but it's a dream that worth chasing for as long as it will take. I will keep on doing my very best... until I retire or until I win it."
"Kakeru..."
"It's okay because I'm happy to have you, to have so many great teammates with the same aspirations... and to have him with me if I ever need guidance and support along the way." Kakeru said, putting his hand to his chest in reference to Suguru.
"He will always be watching over us. You are only beginning to come near the full extent of the potential that he always saw in you." Nana replied.
"We will reach those new heights together will that full potential. I promise you, Nana."
"And I will be alongside you for every step of the way towards that goal, Kakeru."
"May all of our dreams come true." Kakeru and Nana said altogether.
Then Kakeru and Nana shared a kiss to seal the promise that they would fulfill their promise of leading their native country into new footballing heights no matter how hard the road ahead will be. But for the moment, a new chapter of their lives was about to begin as their destinies will soon unite in holy matrimony.
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