Solace and Harmony
Disclaimer:
Yo. few short words. POT doesn't belong to me. so don't sue.
Summary:
"...what were you trying to test"
"...Fate.."
A.N:
Sorry for the long wait. Was busy with school and some other stuff.
CHAPTER 8: Loved one and Beloved: Not this time
Ryoma held Sakuno close, trying to memorize the feeling of having her in his arms for what he knew was the last time. As the music that was pouring out of the speakers behind them started to fade, he held her tighter. The moment the song ends, he knew he would have to let go. He didn't want to. Not just yet.
"...Sakuno."
She froze in his arms, not daring to believe that he called her by her first name for the first time since she met him at the train 9 years ago. She didn't answer his query, just continued to hold him close. This is the one gift she'll give to herself. She couldn't let this moment pass.
"Sakuno." There it was again, his gentle voice calling her name.
"..N-nani?Ryoma-kun?" She answered hesitantly, lowering her head a bit more, her cheeks tinted bright pink.
He pulled away from her and tilted her chin up, Yellow eyes meeting large, chocolate brown ones. He smirked slightly, not missing the blush that was lightly staining her cheeks. He leaned closer, brushing his lips on her forehead, not really caring that there are people around them. Even if his former team mates were there to witness the scene. Even her husband. He drew back, before staring at her now flushed visage, staring up at him dazedly. It's now or never.
"..The prince came to rescue his princess to late..didn't he?"
Her eyes widened at his question before lowering to stare at his clean, white polo shirt. She nodded her head once. Then twice. She heard his sardonic chuckle.
"She..was already rescued by another prince. The one that didn't make her wait for so long.."
A bitter smile was now starting to spread on his thin lips. Silence surrounded them like a fog.
"It's over..ne,Sakuno?"
Still, she gave no answer.
He nodded his head slowly.
"I thought so."
He gave her one more kiss on the forehead before crushing her to his chest tightly.
"Now that I think about it..I never did got around to telling you that I love you..didn't I?"
She froze.
He..loves me?
Ryoma's arms tightened a bit more around her, as if answering her unsaid question.
Yes. I do. Ever since we we're 12. Since 9 years ago.
He released her abruptly and before turning around.
"Congratulations, Ryuuzaki. I wish you well."
With that, he walked away, not forgetting to tap on his former senpai's shoulder and sending a slight glance to Fuji's slightly opened eyes.
Take care of her..the way I wasn't able to.
Fuji nodded, his smile unwavering.
I will.
Ryoma opened the door and closed it shut behind him.
Sakuno watched him leave, longing evident in her eyes. She looked down, willing the tears that was starting to burn her eyes to go away. It's too late. Crying won't do anything. Can't do anything. She felt a hand rest on her shoulder and she looked up. She found herself staring at Fuji's serene face. He smiled encouragingly.
"Tell him, Sakuno."
"..Demo, Syuusuke.."
He kissed her full on the lips, silencing the protests that was about to tumble out of her mouth. He drew back slightly, her lips feeling his as he spoke.
"I trust you, Sakuno."
Tears fell out of her eyes. He kissed them away before drawing back to his full height and giving her a small push.
"Go. I'll wait. You know I'll always be."
She gave him a small smile. Whatever she did to deserve someone like Fuji, she'll never know. But she was grateful.
Very grateful.
She turned around and lightly sprinted out of the reception hall, following Ryoma downstairs. Fuji watched her go, his closed eyed smile never leaving his face. He couldn't open his eyes. He knew something will fall out if he does.
I know you won't disappoint me, Sakuno. After all, you've always, ALWAYS..understood."Ryoma-kun!"
He stopped in mid-step before turning around to see her walking towards him in quick, hurried steps. She stopped a few meters away from him. He stared at hew, waiting for her to talk. Sakuno took a deep breath. Then she smiled.
"9 years is such a long time, ne Ryoma-kun?"
He blinked at her question. She continued.
"I'm not sure if I can wait again for that long. So.." She smiled at him gently.
"Next lifetime, don't keep me waiting."
He stared at her for a moment. Realization hit him. He chuckled lightly before giving her one of his rare smiles. He nodded his head briefly.
"Until then, Sakuno."
He turned around, lifted his hand in a short wave before walking away. Sakuno lifted her hand to return his wave, not caring even if he doesn't see her mimick his actions.
I'll be waiting..Ryoma.
When she can no longer see his fading figure, she turned around and walked back to the reception hall.
Away from him and into Fuji's loving arms.
It was now time to let go.Crappy chapter? Hope not.
