I'd still suggest shaving the top, including the forelock that's remained unchanged for several years. I just don't see the advantage of keeping it. You'll have to deal with lace at the hairline on either side even under your desired scenario. I think you're asking for a lot of extra work and hassle with no corresponding gain by trying to integrate that forelock. But the really good news is you can try it your way and change paths in as little as 6 weeks if you decide to. You have many, many options available to you now that you've decided to "go for it."

Best of luck. I know it will work out eventually.