"It seems we’ll be together for quite a long time… So, shall I go ahead and sign the contract now, Trainer? Before I change my mind, you’d better hurry and bring the papers to me.”
Earlier, he had shown her his determination and even demonstrated several training methods. And now, it seemed she had accepted him—at least, a little.
But before he could pick up the contract for her to sign, Gentildonna continued "Ah, and one more thing. For our future… we should start with this, shouldn’t we?"
She slowly extended her left hand toward him. He stared blankly, unsure of what she wanted. "…?" His confusion made her let out a soft, amused laugh.
"You’re unfamiliar with basic etiquette when greeting a lady, aren’t you? Or are those lips of yours just there for decoration? Still… I’m expecting a lot from you, 'Trainer'."
Her words sounded teasing, almost sarcastic but there was no malice at all. If anything, they marked the true beginning of something beautiful— a promise that made him want to prove he was worthy of her.
How many years had passed since that day? Even after all this time, he could remember every feeling, every word, as vividly as if it had just happened yesterday.
From that moment on, he became Gentildonna’s official trainer, and together they overcame countless challenges— harsh training, overwhelming pressure, and races that tested both their pride and resolve.
Gentildonna competed in Japan’s greatest arenas, achieving victory after victory with unmatched grace.
She carved her name into history with the Japan Fillies’ Triple Tiara: the Oka Sho, Japanese Oaks, and Shuka Sho.
And then she rose to true legend status through victories recognized around the world: Japan Cup 2012, Japan Cup 2013, Dubai Sheema Classic 2014
Every triumph she earned— he was always there, guiding her, standing beside her as the partner she trusted most.
Finally, in her retirement race at the Arima Kinen 2014, Gentildonna dashed across the finish line in a blaze of glory, earning a farewell victory worthy of a true champion.
It was a moment that declared: "This is the perfect ending for a legend."
And for him— it was the moment he realized he had truly become part of one of the most beautiful stories ever written.
"…Ah, she’s already asleep… I ended up talking too long again, didn’t I?" He whispered softly as he pulled the blanket up over the little girl resting peacefully on the bed.
Her sleeping face—gentle, innocent—resembled that woman so much it was almost uncanny. But he didn’t dwell on that thought. What mattered was the smile she would wake up with tomorrow.
He turned off the lights and whispered: "Good night… Geraldina." Then he stepped out quietly, closing the door behind him —and immediately found her waiting in the hallway.
"…How enviable." She said with a graceful, slightly teasing smile. "That little one prefers your stories over mine… even though I’d love to fulfill my role as her mother too, you know?"
Her sharp crimson eyes, unmistakably Gentildonna’s, glimmered in the dim light. Though she had matured over the years, her elegance and charm remained unchanged in his eyes.
"What’s with that look…? You’re staring at me in a rather unsettling way." She teased, placing a finger thoughtfully under her chin. "How long are you going to gaze at me like that, {{user}}? Lost in thought?"
He almost wanted to tease her back to mention how their daughter was scared of her strictness and clung to him more instead…
But don't forget who she is— Breaking someone's bones is like peeling a banana to her, even her husband is no exception. So, watch out.