JC: Okay, guys, brace yourselves cuz this is the second to the last chapter! Yes, I've decided a long time ago to end it at Chapter 22. The National Tournament is about to end. Will Seigaku emerge victorious? And Sakuno is fully aware of her connection with Subaru Moonwalker now! How will she handle this complicated family matter? How about our boys and their feelings for Sakuno? Please do read and find out!
Note: The story takes place during Sakuno and Ryoma's 3rd year of middle school.
Disclaimer: I don't own Prince of Tennis. All rights belong to Takeshi Konomi.
A Piece of Heaven
Twenty-first Set: Reflection
The sun shone high in the sky, its warmth pressing hotly down Sakuno's neck, sending a trickle of sweat down her back. She tuned out the loud cheers in the air, clouding the cheers that came from both teams. Her own team was an array of emotions, filled with anxiousness and expectations for their female captain. Cameras were clicking away. The audience was high with anticipation. Sakuno found herself holding her breath, her heart pounding against her chest.
Captain Nanami was nothing but impressive. Beauty and brains, athletic and wise—she was the total package, even though she could be quite sadistic and eccentric. Some had considered her to be the female version of Syusuke Fuji to the point that they thought they were relatives. The usually smiling genius did assure them that they weren't, but he did mention that she may be his counterpart in a rather convincing manner that got them thinking again. They just got more confused when Nanami backed up his claim. Their playful and teasing remarks came as second nature to them.
Nevertheless, Sakuno had admired Nanami for a long time, aspiring to become someone as skillful as her. She could see a small smile from the court, the corners of Nanami's lips lifting slyly, her eyes filled with adrenaline and excitement. Nanami was now creating a gap between her and the opponent. She was moving more swiftly across her side of the court—something the opponent was not doing well anymore. Fluid backhands were being complimented well with speedy forehands—tennis at its very best indeed.
And when the opponent finally waned, Nanami immediately exploited that moment, firing a great shot in the low corner.
"Game and match won by Nanami Nadeshiko! 7 games to 6!" the referee announced.
Then the crowd broke into applause and cheers, several of them even hopping to their feet, pumping fists into the air. The Seigaku team expressed a variety of emotions. There were tears of joy, laughter, accompanied with hugs and congratulatory smiles. The girls were so happy. Some were rather reserved in expressing themselves, while others like Tomoka went all out. Sakuno, of course, already had tears streaming down her face. Everyone in the team had worked so hard for this, and now they finally did it!
With Nanami's victory, the Seigaku Team won the Nationals.
"Congratulations, Sakuno-chan," Fuji said, placing a gentle hand on her shoulder, as he smiled warmly at her. "You and your team deserve it. And as your trainer, I'm really proud of you. You've performed so well."
Instantly she recalled her game with Rikkai Dai's Kazuha Suzumori. Dissatisfaction etched its way across her features. Normally she'd feel elated to receive Fuji's seal of approval, but knowing how the game went for her, she couldn't help feeling regretful. After all, she was not able to finish her game with Kazuha.
"SAKUNO!" Tomoka ran up to her and grabbed her by the shoulders. "Are you all right? Are you hurt somewhere? Is it okay for you to be up?" The questions came out so fast, but Sakuno was touched by the friendly concern.
"I'm all right, Tomo-chan," Sakuno replied, smiling kindly at her friend. "Sorry for making you worried."
"I'm glad you're okay now!" Tomoka exclaimed, giving Sakuno a big hug. "And can you believe it?! We won! We won! Our team won! Yahoo!" She was being loud, but she didn't care. She was all too happy about their victory.
And Sakuno was getting choked to death. "T-Tomo-chan…I…I can't breathe…." She managed to squeeze out.
"Ah!" Tomoka immediately released her poor, air-deprived best friend from her clutches. "S-Sorry about that, Sakuno," she said, sticking her tongue out playfully.
"Us winning the Nationals… It almost feels like a dream," Sakuno muttered, gazing fondly at the rest of the Seigaku Team. Sports were the epitome of hard work and dedication. To get to the pinnacle of their sport and to achieve victories, even the most naturally gifted players have to give it their all. Everyone on Seigaku had the skill and the spirit, and she was proud to be part of it.
"This is no dream, Sakuno," Tomoka said, impishly pinching her cheek. "See? We trained so hard and played our best! We deserve this!"
"I agree wholeheartedly," Fuji added.
But Sakuno couldn't help feeling frustrated over the outcome of her match. Losing was one thing, but not being able to finish the game proved to be more painful. She would have liked to win. However, she didn't produce the results she hoped for. Instead, she was a victim of an upset. She had truly enjoyed playing Kazuha Suzumori to the point that she didn't even care how tired she was.
"Come on, Sakuno! Let's join the others!" Tomoka said, skipping ahead with childlike glee.
Sakuno was about to follow her when she heard Fuji chuckling.
"Saaa…I know you didn't get to finish your game, but the results you've produced were more than expected." His words flowed as smoothly as cream
She looked up at him in surprise, as if he just grew another head. Her senior had always been sharp and perceptive, but sometimes she wondered if he had the ability to read minds.
His smile didn't falter. "Sakuno-chan, I'm expecting greater things from you in the future."
"Huh? W-What?"
"Ryuuzaki-san!" A strong, feminine voice called out, and Sakuno immediately turned to see a Rikkai Dai player approaching her. Furthermore, this girl was none other than the Black Widow, Kazuha Suzumori. "I'm sorry about what happened to you. Are you all right now?"
Sakuno was certain that Kazuha's eyes were puffy and swollen from crying. After all, Rikkai Dai wanted to win as much as Seigaku did. But Seigaku was the stronger team this time around. "Y-Yes, I'm fine."
"You kind of scared me back then," Kazuha said, letting out an awkward chuckle.
Sakuno couldn't help but blush and fidget in place. "U-Um…I…I'm sorry for making you worried," she said, feeling rather shy, as she bowed to her. "A-And I'm sorry…that…I…" She hesitated for a moment, biting her lower lip in regret. "…wasn't able to finish the game…"
"Oh, there's nothing to apologize about, so raise your head," Kazuha told her. "Well…I would have preferred playing you till the very end…but things like this just happens. The last move you did… to be honest…it took me by surprise."
Sakuno flicked her eyes to Kazuha's face. "W-What do you mean by that?"
Kazuha scratched the back of her neck. "You were able to reach the ball in time…I couldn't even react to it as it zoomed past me. I thought I was going to lose right there until I heard the umpire shouting out. The ball landed just millimeters away from the line."
Chocolate brown eyes grew wide in surprise at the realization. Sakuno stood there, frozen on the spot, until Kazuya continued.
"There's no way I'm satisfied with the results," Kazuha said, looking a little awkward. "You're pretty amazing, Ryuuzaki-san." Then her face lit up with excitement. "Hey, remember that little scoop volley drop shot you did? The one I couldn't get to? The crowd really erupted to applaud that shocking moment."
Sakuno nodded blushingly, recalling the move in her head. It was something Fuji taught her before, a move she had practiced countless times until she got it. She cast a sidelong glance at her senior only to find him smiling at her. Almost flinching, she looked away, embarrassed.
"Damn… I really want a rematch! If it was only possible now." Kazuha released a sigh. "But we can't do anything about it so…Next time for sure!" She held out her hand, smiling confidently and sincerely at Sakuno. "Let's have another match again in the future!"
"Suzumori-san…" Sakuno was blushing to the roots of her hair. She really didn't expect this at all. Suzumori was an incredible player herself, so it was such an honor to be acknowledged by someone like her. She was so happy that she felt like crying. But she held it in, gathered her thoughts, and returned the smile. "I'll be looking forward to it, Suzumori-san." She took Kazuha's hand and shook it firmly. "And I'll make sure to fight till the end."
"That's the spirit!" As Kazuha withdrew her hand, she took a good look at Fuji. "Fuji Syusuke-san, I apologize for not greeting you earlier." She gave him a polite bow and smiled. "I'd love to talk to you more, but it's time for me to head back to my team."
"Oh, it's no problem," Fuji replied.
Kazuha extended a sincere congratulation to Sakuno before she walked back to where her team was.
Sakuno was quiet for a while, already thinking of her next match with Kazuha, and then she sighed. "Is it okay for me to call her a rival?" she asked her senior, looking like an innocent child.
"Well, she seems to see you in the same way."
Sakuno was only twelve when she started tennis. She used to live in her own little world of ideals and dreams. She was so shy, so withdrawn, and could barely hold anyone's gaze for two seconds. She had no interest in tennis, even when it was her grandmother's sport, and preferred cooking and baking, which came naturally to her. But soon after watching Ryoma play, she was inspired to try tennis.
She wasn't gifted with athleticism. In fact, she was quite clumsy and fidgety. She always had trouble with her form. Her movements were less than impressive, sloppy most of the time, and she couldn't even hit the ball right. Despite failing over and over again, she still pursued the sport and had grown to love it. Tennis had become her greatest passion, although she wasn't aware of it until recently.
She always had an irrevocable spirit underneath such delicate façade. Her grandmother's death drove her to desperation, but she was able to recover with the help of her friends and play tennis again. From that point on, she swore to keep her grandmother alive through her successes in tennis.
"I really love tennis, Syusuke-senpai," Sakuno expressed openly, a loving smile gracing her lips. "I have Ryoma-kun to thank for this… I took up tennis because I met him…"
Fuji couldn't deny how beautiful she looked with such a smile, but he also couldn't deny the pang of envy in his heart.
"Of course… I also have you to thank." Sakuno took his hand in between hers, squeezing them gently, as fresh pink roses bloomed on her cheeks. "You made me love tennis even more and I'll never forget that."
Fuji's heart lurched wildly. He wanted to embrace her immediately, but then he saw the reporters and cameras coming, so he could only stop and keep up his mask. "Saaa… hope you're ready for your next hurdle." He carefully pulled his hand away from her touch and patted her head. "I'll head back to my team now." And with that said, he turned on his heel and walked off, leaving his precious junior to deal with the reporters.
"E-Eh? W-What?" Sakuno found herself surrounded, as if she was a poor doe surrounded by a pack of wolves. There were cameras, recorders, and microphones around her, and questions were being thrown at her from every direction. "Um… Wait… I…" She felt herself getting smaller, dizzier and shier.
Fuji almost felt sorry leaving her alone like that. Nevertheless, this was necessary in order to prepare her for the future. If she were to pursue her dream, then she must get used to the attention. "Though Tezuka might scold me for this later…" he muttered with a chuckle.
At approximately six o'clock Sakuno and the team celebrated their victory with a barbeque party at Captain Nanami's estate. There were music and laughter, and Sakuno could see what looked like about sixty people. It was very festive. There was the clinking of glasses, and someone was playing JPOP albums and music. The athletes were already out of their jerseys and in their school uniforms. The female coach herself was dressed in a skirt and semi-formal dress shirt.
Groups of people were clustered everywhere in the garden, laughing and chatting and telling stories, and some were sitting near the fountain and in the gazebo, clearly relaxing and enjoying the party. And standing at the barbeque in her school uniform and cream-colored apron was Nadeshiko Nanami. She was handing out steaks with a professional air, and chatting with everyone as they came and went, and she didn't seem tired one bit.
Sakuno was hovering at the edge of the crowd near one of the big picnic tables where the food was laid out. There were different kinds of salads and appetizers, but she was craving for meat. She hesitated for a moment, then walked slowly over to the captain. Nanami's face broke into a beautiful smile as she saw her.
"What can I do for you, Fuku-buchou?" Nanami gracefully gestured to the meat she was cooking. "I recommend the steaks myself."
Hotdogs, hamburgers, steaks, grilled corn—everything looked scrumptious, but the steak really caught her eye. "I'll have a steak please."
"Excellent choice," Nanami replied and started preparing the steak. "How I wish the boys were here to join us. But they too have their own celebrations to attend to."
Sakuno shared the same sentiment. She would have loved to talk to Fuji more. The Seigaku High School Tennis Team was also the champions in their bracket, and Sakuno was sure that they were having a blast at Kawamura's Sushi. On the other hand, Tezuka's team was runner-up for the Middle School Division. There were tears and frustrations after their match, but the team wasn't sore losers. In fact, they were also celebrating someplace else as well. Despite the Seigaku Middle School Team losing, she was still proud of them for making it so far in the tournament.
Tezuka had praised her for her efforts after she got swamped by the reporters. He had offered her a genuine smile and a pat on the head. He was like a proud father to her. But things were still kind of awkward with him. She had known about her relationship with Gaia and Subaru Moonwalker for hours now, and she was silently praying that Tezuka would not let her meet with the supposed grandfather any time soon. He couldn't force her, after all. Tezuka was a reasonable man, and she was his responsibility.
But they still needed to talk about Subaru, about Gaia, and about what was going to happen to her in the future.
Her conversation with Nanami eventually shifted from tennis to normal everyday talk. And when the steak was done, Nanami lifted it from the grill and placed it carefully on Sakuno's plate.
"I hope it's to your liking," Nanami said.
"Thank you very much, Buchou," Sakuno replied courteously.
"Oh…and Sakuno-san," Nanami called out as Sakuno was about to turn. A knowing smile graced her features. "Decisions are the hardest thing to make especially when it is a choice between where you should be and where you want to be. Before you make a final decision, really thing about what you're doing and ask yourself if it's worth it." She had always been curious about Sakuno, always been interested. It shouldn't have mattered to her, but it did.
There was no doubt in anyone's mind that Sakuno Ryuuzaki was going to succeed, no matter what it took. She was one of those hardworking people who were determined to get where she wanted to go. In spite of whatever failures and obstacles that would stand in her way, she would overcome them and emerge even stronger. Nanami marveled at her often.
Sakuno could feel her heart fluttering, but she found herself thinking back of her match with Kazuha. She remembered how tired she was, how her knees wanted to buckle under all the pressure, but she could never forget that one moment where she saw Him. It may have been her mind playing tricks on her due to exhaustion, but his appearance on the court had inspired her even more. She knew then where exactly she should be.
"Yes!" she responded her captain, smiling sunnily. "I'll do my best!"
A person can never win every battle. Winning wasn't everything, but losing was nothing. If players have given their all and still do not win, they haven't lost. Others might remember winning or losing, but players would remember the journey. Tournaments always worked that way. There would always be winners and losers.
He was fully aware of that. He had his fair share of winning and losing throughout his life, but it still killed him to lose. He could never stand the thought of him losing. He was always like that about winning. Nevertheless, this was a different kind of frustration, a different kind of bitterness that he couldn't even describe, and it was nagging him since the awarding ceremony. As a captain he felt somewhat responsible for the team's lost, even though no one blamed him. In fact, they only had words of praises and gratitude for him after his match.
Ryoma had spent agonizing about it alone. Maintaining a cool, calm, and collected façade for his team was something he was good at. Most were convinced that he was all right, but the people who were close to him, namely Kachirou, Katsuo and Horio, knew what was up. The team was having a commemorative dinner at a Japanese restaurant, where the food was absolutely scrumptious. He did manage to gulp down some food, but after a while he decided to take a stroll in the little Japanese garden just outside the restaurant.
"You didn't get the results you wanted, but over the last couple of weeks you have shown great resilience and great character as ace and captain." Wise words from the former captain himself. Tezuka had appeared behind him, glasses glinting mysteriously in the moonlight. "You and the team have done incredible things."
As much as Ryoma hated to admit it, Tezuka was still the better captain, and he respected the man tremendously. But Ryoma still wished he could have done more for the team. "I still have lots more to work on," he scoffed in English.
Tezuka had always acknowledged Ryoma's strength as a player. Though he doubted Ryoma's leadership skills at first, Tezuka could see how much the younger lad had grown. Ryoma was much more giving, more responsible and unselfish. He wasn't aspiring to be the best on the team anymore, but aspiring to be the BEST FOR THE TEAM. Ryoma had learned to be a member of a team, and he relied on the team, deferred to it, and sacrificed for it.
"Always play without regrets and don't ever let your guard down," Tezuka said finally after one quiet moment.
"Hai…Hai…" Ryoma replied half-teasing and half-serious.
"Tennis, favors the mentally strong… Much like love…"
Ryoma raised an eyebrow at his coach, looking a little confused.
"Echizen, you've realized your dream a long time ago, and I know you'll do what it takes to make it a reality." Tezuka's voice was a clipped, cold monotone, but his eyes were ablaze with something—anger, contempt…Ryoma couldn't tell, but it fed his own growing unease. "But Sakuno is still young. She has a lot to learn and there are times when she's unsure of herself…"
"What are you trying to tell me?" Ryoma said, narrowing his eyes suspiciously and already half-guessing what Tezuka's response would be.
"Sakuno finally found her dream, and I'll make sure to guide her in every step of the way."
Ryoma's heart rammed so hard in his chest he thought it would break through skin. He wasn't exactly the sharpest knife in the drawer. In fact, there were times he could be rather insensitive and dense. At that moment, however, he knew what was coming next and he almost wanted to plug his ears.
"If you still wish to pursue her, then let me ask you this," Tezuka said, crossing his arms over his chest. "Will you be a hindrance to her? Or will you be her pillar of support?" He questioned him with a tone that demanded a serious answer.
"Are you that against me?" Ryoma muttered out without thinking. "You'll probably be okay if she ended up with Fuji-senpai."
"Fuji has nothing to do with this."
"Then why—"
"She needs somebody who can respect her effort, who can support her ambition and value her loyalty," Tezuka cut him off. His eyes belied the calmness of his voice, which was almost dead of emotion. "Can you be that person, Echizen?"
Ryoma wasn't used to being rendered speechless like this. The Tezuka before him was no longer his coach or his former captain. The man standing there was Sakuno's one and only guardian.
Early morning the next day, Sakuno decided to go out for a light jog around the neighborhood. The routine would usually help improve her disposition. After the party last night she had a little talk with Tezuka about the Moonwalker family and it had been exceptionally hard for her.
The road was smooth and even, but she soon found herself out of breath. She was about to pause for a minute to rest, when she heard a familiar tune playing. For a moment, she thought her heart had stopped.
"Your mother composed this music just for you."
The voice prompted her to turn around. As her eyes met Gaia's, she felt all sorts of conflicting emotions. "You were…there…at the time of the accident…"
"So…you remembered." Gaia let out a sad sigh as he closed the locket. "When you came to the mansion… well, to tell the truth I got a little jealous." His smile was forced and his eyes were full of guilt.
Sakuno blinked up at him in surprise. Gaia was gifted with high intelligence and impeccable looks. He excelled in arts, sports, and was renowned for his skills in business and technology. How could someone as amazing as him be jealous of her?
Sensing her curiosity, he sighed and turned to the sky. "I was originally from a rich family."
"A rich family? Wait…then that would mean…"
"My father's a big shot. He holds the biggest bank in Chiba Prefecture. It has branches in Osaka, London, and Hong Kong. I don't know much about him though, apart from his businesses and connections. After all…I'm just his bastard. My mother was a maid at his mansion and she died giving birth to me. He couldn't risk his reputation to take care of me I guess. That's why I was sent to the orphanage. Anyway, he used to send me money every month so long as I don't go to him. I'm happy that he donates a large amount of money to the orphanage as well…but still…"
He chuckled, but it was flat and without humor, and Sakuno sensed the sadness within him. She didn't know what kind of person Gaia's father might have been. He could have been good, or bad, or simply indifferent. But right then she felt that he couldn't be completely unconcerned for him. After all, he was still his father, and she felt like she had to say something. "Maybe he couldn't be with you as much as he'd like, but I think your father still cared."
Gaia raised a brow at her. "I appreciate the effort, but you don't have to comfort me about this." He didn't seem angry, just dispirited.
Sakuno shook her head. "You used to get money while you were still at the orphanage, right? That means your father at least wants you to have enough money for your needs. If he didn't care, he should have abandoned you somewhere. And you said it yourself…Your father also donates money to the orphanage." She knew money was a poor substitute for a family, but at least it was something. It seemed reasonable.
Gaia was quiet for a few minutes, but at last his face burst out in a grin, and he laughed. "Has anyone ever told you how gullible you are?"
She looked away, blushing in embarrassment. "I-I'm sorry…I guess I was out of line."
His expression then grew somber. "Well, you may be right…I never did bother to confront my old man. It's not as if I hate him or anything… I'm just sad that he never bothered to show up in my life." He let out a sigh, not once breaking his gaze from the sky. "Your parents showered you with so much love and attention. For a moment…I thought your mother was going to forget all about me since you came, but it was wrong for me to even think that. Your mother loved me and she never failed to show that." His voice was soft and warm, and the look in his eyes suggested yearning for her dearly departed mother.
Sakuno felt his emotions and was able to sympathize with him. She had never gotten to know her parents as Gaia had never gotten to know his. They may have grown up without their parents, but they still managed to experience what it was like to have a family. She once had her grandmother as her only family until the day she died. Now she had a guardian, a brother who was willing to care for her. Gaia had Subaru Moonwalker.
"Umm… about S-Subaru-san…" She fidgeted in place, choosing her next words carefully. "Is he going to fight Kunimitsu-nii for rights?"
"Will you give your grandfather a chance, Sakuno?"
Her heart thudded in trepidation. "I…I…" True enough Subaru Moonwalker was her grandfather. But to go start living with him meant leaving her guardian and she didn't want that.
"You're the splitting image of your mother," Gaia said, touching a hand to her cheek and gracing her with a fond smile.
She felt herself blushed but didn't make any effort to move away from him. Now that she remembered him she no longer felt afraid of him. Although his touch and closeness still made her slightly uncomfortable, she was happy that such a person still cared for her after all this time. "Onii-chan…" Then she suddenly clamped her mouth with both hands. And, as she had just discerned, she wasn't the only one surprised.
Gaia almost stuttered. "Did you just—?"
"Um…I…" She lowered her head in complete embarrassment, unintentionally brushing away the hand on her cheek.
"You've finally called me…" he said quietly.
It was a slip of the tongue, she told herself, but it felt just right to say that.
"One more time…" He took her hand into his, prompting her to look at him. His amber eyes simply glimmered in excitement, as if he was a child who had just received a new toy. "Please…"
A warm red rose to her cheeks. She was silent for a long moment, and didn't seem able to meet his gaze.
"Your voice was so quiet, so I could barely hear you."
Sakuno couldn't resist feeling drawn to him, as she had years ago when he was just a boy. "Onii-chan…"
His body visibly relaxed. "One more time… A little slower this time."
And she felt herself relaxing as well. "Onii-chan, you heard it just fine, didn't you?" She finally smiled at him.
There was a teasing glint in his eyes. "No, I couldn't really hear you, Sakuno. Besides, I think it's best for you to get used to calling me that again." He touched the crown of her head. "I want to hear it again."
At that point, every fiber in her body felt warm and happy. She was glad that she was able to remember him now. Gaia Moonwalker wasn't related to her by blood, but he had cared for her like a true brother would. So she called him again and in a more cheerful voice this time.
Undeniably, Gaia was able to give her the same, cozy air she'd feel around Fuji and Tezuka. Inwardly she gasped and realized something. She touched a hand to her heart. It's the…same?
The air was refreshingly and comfortably cool that afternoon, making the small, quaint garden a pleasant place for relaxation. She looked up at the sky, thinking how wonderful it was again to have her 'Onii-chan' around. She had told Tezuka about her little encounter with Gaia that morning, knowing it was only proper, and Tezuka was pretty fine with it. Honestly, she was glad that Tezuka no longer viewed Gaia as an enemy or a stranger.
A breeze blew past her, making her hair dance along with it. She stretched out her arms, soaking in the cool air.
"Hey…"
Her body froze, and she felt her eyes widen. While she'd been enjoying the breeze, Ryoma had approached, and now he was right in front of her. "R-Ryoma-kun?!" She jumped back, startled. The lad was there, dressed in a simple red shirt and black shorts with his signature Fila cap.
He raised a quizzical eyebrow. "Didn't notice me coming, huh?"
"Um…Well…I, uh…" She wondered why in the world she was scrambling to come up with an excuse. She felt kind of silly. "G-Good afternoon…"
"Hmm… Were you thinking about the game yesterday? Or someone?" When she blushed, his mouth quickly twisted into a small smirk.
The color of her cheeks only became darker. But then she heard him sigh a bit. She immediately remembered the results of his team's match. "Um…The tournament…I-I'm sorry about—"
"Don't be sorry about that," Ryoma naturally interposed, adjusting the bill of his cap. "Coming in second isn't so bad."
"Then I should congratulate you and your team instead," she said, gracing him with a sincere smile.
He blinked, as if that hadn't been quite what he'd expected. He sighed once again and returned her smile. "Guess so…"
"Mada mada dane," Sakuno said with a giggle.
He wasn't sure what to say to her next, and she seemed to have run out of things to say as well. He didn't want to just stand there and be quiet. After all, he was the one who approached her. There had to be something he could say. "You didn't get to finish your match."
Sakuno laid a hand on her chest absently, and looked away from him, across the garden at nothing. "I lost because I wasn't strong enough. I also have a long way to go."
He looked at her for a second. He opened his mouth to say something but closed it right away.
She felt his eyes on her and shifted nervously in place. She wondered if Ryoma was going to probe for her thoughts and feelings about him. Well, to be perfectly frank, she had no answer for him just yet. She had a lot on her plate, so she silently hoped Ryoma would just keep it in for now.
"You're really a weird girl."
"W-What?!" She snapped her head toward him, pouting and red-faced. She totally didn't expect that out-of-the-blue comment. "Excuse me for being weird, then!" She must have looked rather odd, because he'd called her weird for no reason. And he seemed to find it amusing, because he was just smirking at her.
"I was kinda upset that we didn't win Nationals," Ryoma spoke, turning his back at her, as he touched the bill of his cap. "But…I feel a lot better now."
"Is that so?" Sakuno's lips curved into a smile. "That's good to hear." She decided then to gaze back at the sky.
His eyes flicked to the sky for just a split second. Then, without her noticing, he looked at her. His own expression softened as he watched her for a while. He was really in love with her. It hadn't been easy admitting, but he had been beyond aggressive when it came to his feelings for Sakuno.
The conversation between him and his former captain resounded in his mind. The words were hard, stern, and uttered without hesitation. Ryoma could still remember the unwavering look in his eyes. Tezuka had talked to him about matters concerning the team. Eventually their conversation shifted and they began to talk about Sakuno, which he already had anticipated. His important talk with Tezuka was one reason why he wanted to see Sakuno that day.
And it seemed like Tezuka was asking him to sacrifice their feelings for tennis' sake. It wasn't uncommon for young athletes such as themselves to stray from the path of romance in order to concentrate on the sport that would very much be the foundation of their careers.
Ryoma didn't know what to say to Tezuka. His love for Sakuno was genuine, but Tezuka's words got him thinking of their future. They were still young, still immature in a lot of ways. He may be able to support Seigaku as its pillar, but he wasn't sure if he was capable enough to support Sakuno.
"Even if things between you would work out at first, the world of tennis isn't an easy one. Considering your status, you two would often be surrounded by media and face more hardship ahead." Tezuka had explained to him further.
A relationship may pose as a hindrance to their tennis careers. Ryoma didn't want to admit it or even accept that fact. However, he couldn't deny it as well. And he sure didn't want to put Sakuno through any painful feelings. His desire to be with her was so strong, his heart ached with it. At that moment, he wondered if Tezuka had obliged Sakuno to never get involved in a romantic relationship in order to concentrate on tennis. Nevertheless, the decision was still hers to make.
And she had the Moonwalker problem to deal with too. Ryoma was willing to bet his cat that she didn't needed him in her list of concerns.
"I'm going to go Pro."
Snapping out of his stupor, Ryoma wrenched his gaze toward Sakuno.
She took a deep breath and then met his gaze, her expression sincere. "I know I'm still not the best. Nanami-buchou… Suzumori-san… Tomo-chan… Syusuke-senpai, Marui-san, Kunimitsu-nii… I'm still lacking in so many ways compared to them… That's why I want to grow stronger. I want to become a player my grandmother would be proud of. I want to find my rightful place in the tennis world…"
She looked so dignified, so beautiful and strong, and Ryoma was once again drawn to her.
"And there's you as well, Ryoma-kun." Sakuno mustered up the courage and took his hand between hers. She held it with much care as she stared directly into his hazel orbs. "I'm glad I met you, because it was your tennis that led me to realize my dream."
His eyes widened slightly. "Sakuno…"
She squeezed his hand gently, her cheeks flushing pink. "I was hesitating over what path I should take, about what exactly what I wanted to do in the future. I've thought about it…and I've decided that I want to stand on the same stage as you, Ryoma-kun." She looked up at him again with those soft eyes, so innocent and brown, and graced him with a smile. "That's my dream and the place where I want to be the most."
Ryoma stared at her for a moment, stunned. Then suddenly, his arms were around her.
"U-Uh…um…!" Sakuno gasped, feeling her heart leaping up to great heights.
"Sorry…" His voice was a whisper in her ear. "I just felt like I had to hold you." His strong arms enveloped her body in their tender embrace. He could feel his heart beneath his chest, and when he spoke, his voice trembled just the slightest bit. "You made me really happy just now…" He sounded bewildered, and almost a little embarrassed. Sakuno was so dear to him. What else could he say to her?
"Ryoma-kun…" she muttered, feeling comfortable in his arms. It felt like home. Part of her worried that he would hear her heart racing, or notice that her face had flushed a brilliant shade of red, but another part of her didn't care.
"You're really a weird girl." His arms squeeze tighter. "You're clumsy…you stutter a lot, and your hair is too long, but… I'm also glad that I met you." With those words, he pulled away, and he smiled down at her gently.
Her heart jumped and she looked away, trying to mentally force the traitorous organ into submission. "I…um…"
He playfully tapped her temple with a finger. "You're doing really well now because you've gotten stronger," he told her, his voice a perfect pitch of cockiness. She was a strong not only as a player, but also a person, and he was proud of her.
"Ryoma-kun…" Sakuno muttered, a smile lighting her chocolate brown eyes.
Before she could continue, he turned on his heel and started walking away. "See you at school," he said the words in perfect English.
"R-Ryoma-kun! W-Wait!" she called out.
He paused but didn't turn around.
"Um…" She fiddled with her hands, shifting nervously in place. She wanted to ask him about their relationship, about where they should go from here, but all she could mutter out was a stammering "S-See you at school!" together with a courteous bow.
"Yeah…" he simply replied. He was about to take another step forward, but he threw her a look over his shoulder. "Sakuno…"
She almost jumped at the sound of her name being called out all of a sudden. "Y-Yes?"
"You're still going to Hokkaido for that exhibition match, right?"
"Um…Yes… We'll be staying there for a few days…"
His lips thinned to a straight line. "Play against me when you get back."
She blinked. "H-Huh?"
"I won't take no for an answer," he told her, lips slowly lifting to form that familiar smug grin. "So, don't you dare run away."
She started to fidget nervously. "W-What? W-Why are you suddenly—"
"I hope you'll give me an answer by then." With that said, he casually waved a hand at her and walked away.
Sakuno could only stare at his back in disbelief. "What are you planning, Ryoma-kun?"
Sakuno packed the day before the trip when she went home after school. Fuji came right before dinner, and they chatted for a few minutes about the trip. He sounded excited as she felt. She felt like a kid going on vacation for the first time. Everything had been so complicated for the past months, except the time she spent with her team, her friends, and her guardian.
"You'd be leaving around eight, right?"
"Atobe-san is giving us a free ride in his helicopter." She was thrilled at this since she had never rode a helicopter before. It would be a nice experience.
"Do you like flying, Sakuno-chan?"
"Hmm…I guess?" she said with a giggle. But admittedly, if she could grow a pair of wings, it would be a dream come true to soar the skies.
"I wish I could go with you." And then he smiled tenderly at her, and for a moment she was lost in his pristine blue eyes.
Almost as if on cue, Tezuka politely excused himself from the living room. He had some homework to be done and would have preferred finishing it before 10:00 pm. And he had a feeling that more had happened between Fuji and Sakuno than they were willing to tell him. Confession, heartbreak, or maybe some kind of special talk that he would be normally against, but Tezuka trusted Fuji enough to fix whatever problems between them.
Fuji and Sakuno talked for a long time, sitting close to each other on the porch, staring at the night sky. It was a cool night, and they were both tired, but neither of them seemed to want to leave the other. They seemed to have a myriad of things to talk about, experiences to relate, and opinions to share, especially about tennis. As time wore on, Fuji seemed to move closer to her. It was an expression of how he felt about her, and she didn't seem to object.
All he could think of how much he wanted her. He reached out and touched her face with both his hands, murmuring her name, and gently kissed her temple. She hadn't been prepared for it, and she was totally surprised, yet she didn't push him away or move.
After a while, she finally pulled away and looked up at him sadly. "Syusuke-senpai, I…"
"I'm sorry," Fuji said. He had never loved anyone as he loved her. He loved her with all the tenderness and wisdom of his full being. "I didn't mean to upset you, Sakuno-chan."
She stood up slowly and walked across the patch of grass, as though she had to pull herself away physically so she wouldn't do something embarrassing. "You haven't upset me." She turned and looked at him regretfully. "It's just… I can't explain it…but I…" She thought about Ryoma and clutched the ends of her skirt tightly.
"I'm just like a brother to you, am I?"
She was stunned by what he just said. "S-Senpai, um…uh…" She nervously fidgeted with the ends of her skirt.
"I'm right, aren't I?"
She lowered her head, biting her lower lip. She had reevaluated her feelings towards Fuji and admitted that she loved Fuji but only in a brotherly way. She felt attached to him more because he had somehow reminded her of the brother she had forgotten. "I can never lie to you, senpai…and you always manage to read my thoughts." Her eyes glazed over when she looked up at him. "I'm sorry…I'm so sorry, senpai…but I don't feel that way about you. I'm sorry."
Fuji released a deep sigh and forced a smile. "It still hurts to hear you say it." He walked toward her and held her hands, looking deep into the brown eyes he already loved so dearly. "But don't beat yourself up for this, Sakuno-chan, and thank you for being honest with me."
"Senpai…" Tears were already flowing and her hands were slightly trembling.
He wanted to embrace her, but he forced himself not to. "Don't go start thinking that I'll quit being your coach just because of this. You're still my cute and adorable protégé after all." He then elected to give her head a nice, good pat, while keeping that signature smile on his face. "I didn't want to trouble you with this, because I know you still have things to deal with." Everything he felt for her seemed to pour through him. "Sakuno, I love you, but I'm not going to force you."
She was blushing and looked worried when he touched her cheek with his hand.
"Don't worry about upsetting me. I can handle myself well."
"But that's not fair to you."
"It's even less fair if you kept getting my hopes up."
"Senpai…" She slipped into his arms again and he held her for a long time.
"I will never regret falling in love with you. Who knows? Give it some time and maybe you'll discover that I'm right for you." He chuckled under his breath as she blushed like crazy. "Seriously though… I had my chance. I guess I blew it for being so brotherly towards you." He was teasing her to lighten the moment, and she smiled shyly. His heart was still in pain, however, and he wondered if he should just bully Eiji tomorrow to take his mind off the heartbreak.
Frankly, Fuji was taking it a whole lot better than expected. It probably had something to do with the fact that he already anticipated this. He was pretty good at reading people and had always been an excellent judge of character. Sakuno had been very confused about her feelings for him, but along the way she realized her true feelings.
"Are you certain you don't wish to remain in this glorious hotel a couple days longer?" Atobe asked as they stood together in the terrace connected to the suite where Sakuno had slept for the last two nights.
Sakuno smiled at her handsome host. "I had a great time here, Atobe-san, and the exhibition match had been a wonderful experience for me. But Kunimitsu-nii and I must return."
Atobe's lips firmed with clear indecision. "That Tezuka… Ore-sama had been very gracious in offering you two more days of stay, but he flat-out rejected."
"Kunimitsu-nii still has a lot of work to do, Atobe-san."
An arrogant smirk lightened the King's face. "I suppose you are right in that, my dear Sakuno. But do not forget that you are free to spend the night here at this hotel whenever you like. I will not mind in the least. Please do tell Tezuka that."
Her eyes sparked with surprised enthusiasm at the offer. She opened her mouth to politely refuse the suggestion, but figured it was futile to do so since the rich heir can be very convincing.
She was very excited to go home and to lie down in her own comfy bed. The hotel's accommodations were very luxurious—fit for a princess—but it could not compare to the comforts of her own home. An hour later as she sat in the helicopter traveling back to Tokyo, Sakuno wasn't sure if she was actually looking forward to seeing Ryoma again. Despite the time away, she'd find herself occupied by thoughts of Ryoma. She couldn't think of Ryoma without her pulse picking up speed, her body tingling with heated memories of his touch and his kiss. She missed him, her dreams and daydreams leaving her with a deep, yearning ache. Even so, she still didn't know what to do.
She was dead beat by the time she and Tezuka arrived home. The bed in her room was almost beckoning her. She lied down and fell asleep for an hour until the sound of her cell phone's music cut through her dreams. Groggily, she reached for the phone she left on the bedside drawer. The phone screen flashed the word 'Unknown' as she clicked on.
"Hello?" she said in her reserved voice as she leaned back against the headboard.
There was a moment of silence on the other line before the caller spoke up. "Sakuno, this is Subaru Moonwalker."
Her eyes popped wide. All signs of sleepiness left in a flurry. She pulled the phone away from her ear and stared bewilderingly at the screen. Was this for real? Was the person on the other line the one and only Subaru Moonwalker? Her grandfather?
"How did he even get my number?"
Okay, she realized immediately that it was one of the most ridiculous questions she had to ask herself. Rich people had their ways, of course. But what was she going to do? What was she going to say to the man? She wasn't mentally prepared for this. She thought about calling her guardian, but she knew it was just downright rude to let the man wait.
Mustering up the courage, she pressed the phone against her ear. "Yes? This is Sakuno… W-What can I do for you?"
"How are you doing?"
"Oh…um…I…uh…I'm doing fine…" She couldn't talk to him without stuttering. She was really feeling nervous.
"Is that so? I heard much about you from Gaia."
"Umm…"
"I'm sorry about what happened to your grandmother." Subaru's voice changed, sadder now.
Sakuno grimaced, letting out a small, quiet sigh, as she thought about her grandmother. Still, she couldn't let herself be driven by her emotions at this point. She couldn't afford to let her guard down. "S-Subaru-san, I don't want to be rude…but…please state your reason for calling me…"
"I just want to hear your voice." There was no malice in his tone, only sadness and regret. "I have so much I want to say to you… I don't even know where to start."
Sakuno felt sad just listening to his voice. It was such a depressing voice. "Subaru-san…"
"I would very much like to meet you, Sakuno. But I'm afraid that I'm too much of a coward right now."
Her eyes grew wide in surprise. Did she just hear that correctly?
"I appreciate your taking the time to talk with me. I know how hard it must be for you."
Sakuno heard another voice on the other line, probably his secretary from the way he reminded Subaru about a meeting. She gripped her phone a little tighter. She was having mixed feelings about this, but a part of her really wanted to talk to Subaru more.
"I'm sorry, but I have to—"
"S-Subaru-san, please wait!" She hesitated, and her lips trembled. But she had to get this out of her chest. She felt like she'd regret it if she kept her peace. "I'd like to meet you as well…"
To be continued…
JC: I can't believe this is about to end. I know I haven't been consistent with my writing. Being in a slump is the worst! But I promised myself that I'll finish this story no matter what. This has a special place in my heart. The next one will be the last chapter, so I won't spare any previews here. Hope you'll look forward to it. Please don't forget to review this one. NO FLAMING!