Rika's surgery is over and she is well enough to return back to the eastern ward. However, Yūichi is forbidden to see her again. Dr. Natsume reminds Yūichi that while he has a future, Rika may not, and soon Yūichi may have to choose between his dreams and Rika. Later, Dr. Natsume tells Yūichi that he can do anything he wants, helping Rika included, but confides to Akiko that he had blinded Yūichi with this optimism. He shares the fate of his wife's life and mentions that he was once pitted in a situation in which he had to choose between her or his work, and he does not want Yūichi to suffer under the same circumstances. Secretly, Yūichi overhears their conversation and decides that no matter what, he will stay by Rika. With the help of his friends, he enters Rika's room despite warnings in order to promise her that he will always be with her. At the same time, Akiko asks Dr. Natsume if his happiness is more important than that of his loved one. She goes on to say that, "Rika smiles and laughs now. It is better for Rika to be happy with Yūichi than for her to go back to the way she was before she met him." After the credits, Yūichi and Rika are shown going back to Mount Hōdai where upon Yūichi promises to cherish Rika and the two share a kiss.