The opening scene of Episode 1 of "Beyond Goodbye" unfolds with Yusuke and Saeko, a couple intertwined in conversation at the rear of a bus, their journey etched with anticipation. They are bound for the mountain peaks, driven by a future that gleams with promise. Their destination harbors more than scenic vistas; it serves as the backdrop for their impending marriage, a union interrupted comically yet endearingly by a botched proposal aboard the very same bus. As they weave dreams of their shared future, a stunning fireworks display ignites the horizon, a grand gesture orchestrated solely for them, casting an enchanting glow over their blissful moments.
Yet, the tranquility of their joy is shattered abruptly by a catastrophic avalanche. The bus is ravaged, and they are swept off a cliff, leaving their fates shrouded in uncertainty. Miraculously, rescue teams find Saeko and Yusuke, rushing them both to the hospital. Saeko awakens unscathed, a testament to fate's mercy, while Yusuke battles in surgery, ultimately succumbing to his injuries. Respecting his pre-departure wishes, his heart is donated, marking the end of his earthly journey.
Grieving the loss of her beloved, Saeko wanders through the snow-covered landscapes after bidding farewell at the church. The camera transitions gracefully, painting a vivid tapestry of time's passage from winter's chill to spring's renewal. In the serene embrace of a new season, Saeko sips her coffee, Yusuke's ring dangling from her neck as a token of unsevered bond. A letter arrives in the mail, penned by the recipient of Yusuke's heart, leaving Saeko poised between contemplation and response, grappling with the intricate threads of life, love, and loss.
For the meantime, Saeko boards the train to attend her Spanish classes, amidst her ongoing duties at the bustling coffee factory. She shares her workspace with Shinoda, a cheerful coffee enthusiast, but his company is brief as she prepares for an urgent business trip to Hawaii.
Soaring across the globe, Saeko finds herself in Hawaii due to a summon from Hiro, a farmer who's calling it quits but insists on meeting her personally. Hiro, who has been acquainted with her for years, is aware of her struggles and wishes to offer her a retreat. Convinced that the crisp air and novel vistas could rejuvenate her, he extends a helping hand.
Their lengthy acquaintance is rooted in an encounter four years prior, when Hiro was still grappling with the sorrow of his wife's demise and reluctant to involve himself with her or her endeavors. Ironically, it was at the airport—during this seemingly futile endeavor—that fate介入干预. It was there that Saeko first encountered Yusuke, a humorous soul with remarkable piano skills that captivated her curiosity. They ended up sharing a coffee, and it seemed like Saeko was perpetually sipping on her brew.
Yusuke, with his playful demeanor, introduced himself as a "softener," someone who makes life's hurdles easier to bear. His influence swayed Hiro's mind, convincing him to reconsider. This turn of events also fostered a deeper bond between Saeko and Yusuke, as they laughed, joked, and pondered over their futures. Inevitably, their evening culminated in a passionate encounter, where Saeko confessed that Yusuke indeed made life simpler, just as he had promised. Amidst their intimate moments, Saeko pledged that if they ever crossed paths again, they would embark on a romantic journey together. And lo and behold, their reunion was sooner than anticipated!
Emotions flood Saeko's heart, and in a flashback to the present, she vociferously declares to the skies, "Life is devoid of spark without you!" At the airport, an intriguing scenario unfolds. A man sits at the piano and begins to play, prompting Saeko to whirl around and hasten back—but the pianist is not Yusuke; it's a mere stranger.
