“Both of us had an understanding that we should date someone we might one day marry,” said Mako, the oldest of Emperor Akihito's four grandchildren.
When the princess, in a fetching mint green dress, was asked about what her fiance means to her, she described Komuro as a person who warmly encourages her.
Initially enamored by his scintillating smile, she later became attracted to his earnest nature and his attitude of working hard at life with good faith and a strong will. She was also moved by how open he is.
[…]
In December 2013, Komuro proposed to Mako after returning to Japan.
“I accepted his proposal right there and then as I already set my mind (on marrying him),” said Mako.
Komuro, dressed in a navy blue suit, expressed his feelings toward the princess, shared his experiences from his days with her, and said when he sees a beautiful moon in the night sky, he instinctively calls for Mako.
Komuro said he was strongly attracted to Mako and described her as a loving person.
In a moment of light relief, Mako fended off a question over the names they use for one another.
“I would like to refrain from saying here what we call each other (in private),” she said bashfully. But she then added, “We call each other by our first names.”
As for marrying an imperial family member, Komuro said, "I recognize seriously that I bear a grave responsibility.”
