The final chapter of "Beyond Goodbye" unfolds in the picturesque landscapes of Hawaii in Episode 8, where Saeko has embarked on a dual journey: soaking in the island's charm and pursuing her coffee odyssey, aiming to broaden her horizons and elevate her business. However, an unexpected phone call interrupts her tranquil stay, swiftly followed by an unannounced visit from Kazuma.
We'll revisit the details of that fateful call later, but suffice it to say, Kazuma arrives with a heavy heart but a hopeful spirit. Convinced that it's Yusuke's voice guiding him, not his own, he reveals a silver lining in his health prognosis – a forecast for a long and healthy life. Yet, this blessing comes with a poignant caveat: the imminent erasure of all memories of Yusuke from his existence. Seeking solace in their last shared moments, Kazuma decides to spend his remaining days with Saeko, clinging to the fragments of his identity intertwined with Yusuke's.
Hiro, witnessing this tender unfolding, encourages Saeko to seize this opportunity for a heartfelt farewell. Together, they immerse themselves in the simple pleasures of cooking and dining, creating a cocoon of intimacy where Kazuma gradually acknowledges that he is fully Kazuma, not a fleeting echo of Yusuke.
As night descends, the phone call's mystery is unraveled. It was Miki on the line, her voice heavy with the burden of truth. She reveals Kazuma's grim health outlook and his fervent wish to see Saeko before his final curtain call. Her confession stems from a heart that, despite its pain, loves Kazuma deeply and has come to terms with his fate. In a twisted act of camaraderie, she imposes a poignant condition: a kiss, a fleeting embrace of affection, is granted, but any physical intimacy beyond that would be a fatal strain on Kazuma's fragile heart.
Kazuma senses that Saeko is not her usual self on that fateful night, and he finds himself battling to suppress his sorrow. As the night deepens, Saeko lays her head gently on Kazu's chest, drifting into a restless sleep while her tears linger on the brink of spilling over. Their connection does not extend beyond this tender moment, nor do their lips meet again in a romantic embrace, and it is with a heavy heart that Saeko bids Kazuma farewell at the airport.
At the airport, Yusuke's memories resurface within Kazuma, reminding him of the day he first met Saeko there. His intentions were pure – to bring a smile to her face and lift her spirits, which led him to play that particular song. However, midway through the melody, his efforts falter, and it seems that Yusuke's final echoes have faded, leaving only Kazuma behind. This serves as a poignant conclusion to his character arc, and the two part ways with a simple handshake.
Kazuma boards his flight back home, eager to reunite with Miki. Her joy at seeing him is palpable, and they rush into each other's arms, embracing with a fervent intensity. Kazuma has returned, and he vows to spend every precious moment he has left with his beloved wife. Sadly, his time on earth comes to an end in the orchard some time afterward.
Meanwhile, Kengo and Saeko make a solemn pact never to find themselves entangled with the same man again. Despite this, Saeko eventually finds herself returning to the factory, deciding to work alongside Shinoda once more. However, her train journey home is interrupted by a message from Miki, who invites her to join her in the orchard for apple-picking. Intrigued by the invitation, Saeko accepts and makes her way there.
Miki reveals that this arduous task is a way for her to repay a debt and seek forgiveness for her past actions. It also serves as a bridge between them, allowing Miki to feel a connection to Yasuke and Kazuma through their shared presence. This gesture is an annual tradition – once a year, she wishes to see Saeko, relishing the opportunity to experience a piece of their lives once more.
