Koizumi takes a deep breath. This is a step he should have taken a long time ago. Yet, now, when he finally comes to it, he finds he's terrified to go through with it. Then he looks at Sheska, really sees her - the confusion and shock and fear - and all of his doubts go away - they don't vanish; they simply cease to matter.

They're ready for this. They need it, both of them.

"Sheska, do you... do you like me? I mean... as more than just a friend."