Yes, I think optimistic is the right word; I wouldn't mind an ending that is optimistic in the sense that there is at least some potential for recuperation. On a scale of 1 to 10, with 10 being a fairy tale ending and 1 being a tragic one, I wouldn't mind a...3 or 4? I think Souma's already burnt the bridges on 6-10 (haha, oh look, my arbitrary scale of happy endings). At the same time (and even though I really love the characters) I'm morbidly fascinated by the idea of a completely disasterous ending? I mean, it would break my heart, but it would do it /so well/. This probably says something about my masochistic tendencies *laughs*

Also, fellow Sakura Gari fan! *waves*