A/N: Once more I am extremely happy with the number of reviews and feedback I got! So if I'm happy, that could only mean a new chapter is out! I've decided to go ahead and finish this story soon so the other two stories are on hiatus until this one is done :)
Besides that point, It's the second to last chapter so get ready for a closing to most things…as for Ryoma snapping again…I don't know…he's not one to lose his cool after all XD This chapter was very long but I managed to cut matches down a bit and condense it a bit…despite all that though it was still almost 20 pages…Anyways, on with the story!
Don't forget to review because it'll make me happy!
asdf- Well I'm sure everyone is hoping for Thrill Pair as well…
KioTo-chan- I'm sure Ryoma will cool down a bit in this chapter…after all he's got to be strong for Ryo and the team.
RC- Well I might actually do that so maybe look forward to that :)
Lonely Rain- Thrill Pair will definitely be in this chapter so look forward to it.
1FujiEijiLVR- Soon maybe… soon he may regain a few things he lost :)
Slate Grey- I know that's how he sounds right now but he's just trying to figure out a couple things in his life right now. Fuji will come around and see things the way everyone is trying to lay it out in front of him :) Don't you worry about the make-up scene too XD Seer Vixion- It's a bit harsh but Ryoma had to live through hell as well so it all equals out in the end XD I'm sure it took a lot of self restraint for Ryoma not to run after Atobe and scar his face.
Sweet Obsidian Rain- I'm glad you took notice of Inui-junior's scarred mind…I'm sure he's paranoid now XD As for the Ryoma/Atobe part, it took a while before I figured out what Ryoma would do if he found out but I thought it worked out pretty well. You can rest assured on Ryo/Jun though :) It seems like they'll be okay XD.
Shadowsteph- I'm sure everyone's feeling Ryoma's "joy" at punching Atobe in his millionaire face XD as for 'Waiting For You' I'll figure out if a sequel can come to be or maybe the story told from Fuji's view might change how people ended up feeling about him XD I don't know yet, but whatever it turns out to be, it won't be any less than the original!
RuByMoOn17-We'll hear more on Atobe and his royally damaged face…Ryoma over snapped but all is fair in love and war XD
Asian Tinkerbell- The angst and drama never leave when I write XD something's always happening in my stories…someone suggested I try something where everything was a bit expected without too much drama but I don't know if I can XD
XoHakugei- I know, it's hard to see a emo Ryoma but then again, it's not everyday you lose everything you hold dear… It's nearing the end of the story as well and I wanted to show a bit more on the other regulars as well… although they appeared in and out of the story I thought I'd add a little on how everything was turning out in their family.
Empress Satori- Sadly life isn't all about happiness :( but each boy will survive…it's their situations that often bring out their strength in character after all. I'm sure Atobe is regretting the stance he took right now. It's a good thing Ryoma didn't snap enough to give him a broken nose or anything. Hajimoto had a bit of a conscience …but some people will do anything to live an easier life.
Animefav- You can count on me to make a dramatic part for reunion XD
Selyn- Yes, poor Kira…home alone with no feelings to tell XP It was my original plan to show a bit more on each of there views but I decided to cut everything short or risk writing over 15 pages XD As for Atobe…he's destroying happiness of others and that obviously makes him happier XP
BlueFreesia- I'm glad that it was fascinating… although the burnt meal doesn't sound to appetizing XD anyways, I'm sure you'll want to be here for every second of this chapter!
Ria Sakazaki- I only mildly play with him….er…all right! Guilty to its fullest! XD
Cheska- I believe Atobe already suffered his humiliation and 'scars' XD It's for sure that we won't be seeing his royal self anywhere but hiding in his mansion for a few days…at least until the bruises disappear. XD
Crassreine- I'm glad you approve of the OC's :) their purpose is to blend into the story so much that they'll seem like part of the story!
Chapter 21: No Regrets
Recap
"I have no regrets if I die now…" Ryoma merely announced to them and walked off in his own direction. No one could say anything as they watched him walk off…no one dared followed…they knew he needed time…
"Ready?" Ryoma asked the regulars who all nodded.
The regulars noted the determination pass their coach tired eyes and decided they weren't going to fail him…especially not against Midoriyama!
"Ready Echizen?" Midoriyama's coach called out with a grin.
Ryoma smiled and did a thumb's up towards him. "Ganbatte! You're going to need it!"
"I wonder…" the guy said with a smile back.
Keeping a smirk on his face for Midoriyama's sake, he turned back to the team with a scowl of annoyance.
"Destroy those flies so we can advance to semi-finals!" Ryoma merely ordered.
"Usu!" The team said imitating their Buchou before he could say it.
"Che!" Ryo said with a scowl at all of them and went to claim his spot on the bench.
Inui on the other hand shook his head sadly. Most of the coaches nowadays don't even glance at him, the real coach. They did all their talking with Ryoma who was only helping out. Inui sat on the coach's bench and opened his mouth to call Tokinawa out for singles 3 when he heard a voice behind him say loudly.
"Get out there Tokinawa!" Ryoma said before settling down next to Ryo. He ignored the stare Inui gave him and didn't bother looking at Kikumaru who was waving him to sit next to him and Oishi.
"Echizen-san…" Moritaka started as he sat next to Ryo to talk to Ryoma. "I wanted to-"
"Moritaka!" Aikawa said a bit uncomfortably from behind him.
"Oh… am I blocking your view?" Moritaka asked looking towards Aikawa.
"Umm…. it's not that… it's just that you should sit next to me." Aikawa said jerking his head to the side a bit. Moritaka had no idea until he turned a bit and saw that Matsuma didn't look to happy standing there waiting for him to move.
"I'm sorry Matsuma… I didn't know you always had to sit next to Echizen…" Moritaka said moving.
"Well now you know." Matsuma stated with a "smile" that made Moritaka want to watch his back than smile back.
"What's up with him?' Moritaka asked Aikawa when he settled next to him.
"I can't believe you don't know that they're dating!" Aikawa said
"What!" Moritaka's eyes widened considerably. "They are?" he whispered to Aikawa.
Everyone stared at Moritaka in awe. "How could you have not noticed?"
"Well it wasn't obvious like Echizen-san and Fuji-san!" Moritaka said a bit loudly.
Ryoma hearing the whole conversation had decided not to punish them as long as they shut up soon. That was, until they mention Fuji and his relationship…the impact was a heavy one on Ryoma's heart…so heavy he turned with a frown on his face and decided to punish them.
"Go do 10 laps" Ryoma bit out roughly to Aikawa and Moritaka.
"But…" Kitawaru interrupted.
"You may join them too" Ryoma stated, "Anyone else?" He stared at the others who focused their attention back on the game that was about to begin and ignore the scene.
"Echizen-san…why do we-" Moritaka started but was cut short by Ryoma's harsh voice.
"Instead of studying the game, you were needlessly gossiping like girls, if I wanted to hear gossip I could go pull a couple of girls here to hang around me!"
Moritaka started to protest again but Aikawa pulled at him to go do the assigned laps.
"Don't needlessly anger him." Aikawa said as they started to run. "He's already in a bad position…especially now that Fuji-san is with Tezuka-san."
Moritaka sighed and nodded. It seemed inside the Seigaku Tennis Team, there were secrets he didn't know about at all…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Ryoma's gaze didn't stray from Tokinawa's match again. The score was currently 3-2 in favor of Tokinawa but something told Ryoma, this wasn't the end at all.
"30-15!"
Ryoma merely raised a brow slightly. It seemed Midoriyama was finally making a move now but Tokinawa looked ready as well. During the time when Ryoma observed them to the point where he personally trained the regulars, he knew Tokinawa was one of the regulars that broke under pressure. But something…something today told Ryoma he wasn't going to break…it seemed he was very focused on his opponent…in more ways then one.
"I'm going to start attacking now Tokinawa-kun!" the boy smiled as he smashed it over the net.
"Please do Matsuura-kun!" Tokinawa said barely volleying it back over.
"I suppose it'll go out." The brown haired boy said with a smile towards Tokinawa.
"40-15, Advantage receiver!"
"Not when you train with Echizen-san!" Tokinawa said before turning to walk back to the receiving line.
"Naota…"
" We'll talk later Kyoshiro…for now, this match is for my team!" Tokinawa said.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Eh? Does Tokinawa-senpai know him?" Fukumachi asked no one in particular.
"From how they address each other there's a 97.6 that they do know each other." Inui-junior chimed in.
"So ka? (Really?)" Matsuma said before noticing the apparent frown on both Echizen's face as they watch the match intently.
"Something wrong?" Matsuma asked Ryo.
"Familiarity can only mean one of two things." Ryo started. "Old rivals or old friend."
"So…"
"Both bring trouble when you look at it." Ryoma said bluntly.
"You're afraid he's going to loose his cool huh?" Kira asked from behind them.
"More like emotionally and mentally he'll be affected." Ryoma and Ryo said at the same time.
"They really think alike…" Oishi said with a bit of pride.
"Eh… Oishi is becoming mother-like again!" Momoshiro said with a chuckle.
"No I'm not!" Oishi said as his face turned red. "I'm just a bit…."
"Protective?" Kikumaru added gently teasing his lover as well.
"I…" Oishi didn't say anymore as he ordered the group to pay attention to the matches.
"Eh…these are kids matched though…" Momoshiro said loudly with a voice laced with boredom.
"If you do not wish to be here you don't have to be." Ryoma said bluntly to Momoshiro.
"What did you say Echizen?" Momoshiro said with a frown. "Mou! That Echizen will never understand that I'm his senpai!"
"Maybe he'd acknowledge you as one if you were more mature baka!" Kaidoh said irritated at Momoshiro's childish behavior.
"What Mamushi?" Momoshiro said raising his voice louder.
"Momo-senpai!" Ryoma said very sharply. "I believe if you want to be a professional tennis player, watching these matches will improve your knowledge."
"Learning from kids?"
"Do you want to learn from me?" Ryoma challenged.
The others were speechless from this challenge. It was rare to see Ryoma snap so fast and react like this. Some wanted to see Ryoma in action, others believed, for Momoshiro's sake, he should be quiet.
"Echizen-san has a short fuse today ne?" Kitawaru said as he came to sit down.
"Finish your ten?" Fukumachi asked.
Kitawaru nodded as Aikawa and Moritaka joined the group as well.
"How's Tokinawa doing?"
"So far…well…buchou and Echizen-san are tense." Fukumachi said.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"I won't let you win again Naota!" Kyoshiro said as lobbed the ball over.
"As I remembered you won Kyoshiro…I gave her to you didn't I?" Tokinawa said as he sliced the ball over the net.
" I'll never forgive you for even having her for a while!" Kyoshiro said angrily as he hit it back full force.
Tokinawa suddenly felt a bit sorry for Kyoshiro…his pride was still broken after all that time but more than that, Tokinawa finally saw what Echizen-san had continually told him about. Looking at Kyoshiro now, he could see what anger and impatience could do to a person in the middle of a game. Not only was Kyoshiro being reckless but also he was hitting full force.
"Stop swinging recklessly Tokinawa…""I finally understand what Echizen-san was seeing…I need to relax and pinpoint my shots…" Tokinawa muttered to himself. After a few deep breaths he noticed until now he had been a bit tense.
'I need to find an opening….there!' Tokinawa thought at he swung with precision.
"Game, set, match Seigaku! 6 games to 2!" The referee called out through the cheers and awe.
Tokinawa went forward to shake Kyoshiro's hand and for the first time since he spotted Kyoshiro in this line-up Tokinawa smiled.
"I hope Mia is happy…" Tokinawa said as he grasped his former friend and rival's hand.
"She's very happy!" Kyoshiro shot back before he stalked off.
"Tokinawa!"
Tokinawa turned to see his parents happily smiling at him with pride and his team who wad grinning with happiness.
"Omedetou…" Ryo said
"Echizen-san… Arigatou…. I finally realized my mistake!" Tokinawa said to Ryoma who stood nearby.
"I'm glad." Ryoma merely said.
Although he had merely said that, Fuji noted how Ryoma's eyes softened and the warmth replaced the iciness that was apparent every since the day they broke up in New York. An ache settled in Fuji's chest as he realized he wanted Ryoma to look at him like that again…he wanted that gaze on his face once more!
"Syuusuke?"
Fuji glanced up to meet Tezuka worried frown. " Are you okay?"
"Aa…" Fuji merely replied as his gaze strayed back to Ryoma.
"Yosh!" Ryoma said interrupting the happiness. " Doubles 2 is starting! Kitawaru, you and Moritaka get out there and show them why Seigaku made it this far!"
"Usu!" They both said as they grabbed their racquets to go meet their opponents.
"Ganbatte Aniki!"
Kitawaru turned slightly to smile at the 4 brown-haired boys cheering for him and felt a bit bad that Moritaka had no one to cheer him on …except
"Ganbatte!!!!" Seiko yelled to both her aniki and her boyfriend.
Both smiled and looked at each other. Despite the absence of their parents, there were people who loved them here for them.
"Ike!" their friends said from behind and they both felt a bit lighthearted now.
This match was not for duty…it was for the people who stood by them.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"4 games all!"
Ryoma sighed softly. The match was dragging and Midoriyama was pushing hard. Ryoma knew all four of them went through intense training for this match because both he and Midoriyama's coach were professionals…they worked their tactic into the students they taught…and in the end, the real battle was between the coaches and their tactics.
A rush of thrill raced through Ryoma's spine when Moritaka raked a cross shot and was able to score. He hadn't had such a thrill since he quit professional tennis. The impatience on Midoriyama's coach's face was priceless as their doubles slipped another point to Kitawaru.
"Sweating?" Ryoma muttered at them in victory.
"Aniki… your ego is too big." Ryo said with a slight smirk.
"Baka!" Ryoma said glomping Ryo while never taking his eyes off the match. " As I remembered you were doing your own victory smirks as well."
"Baka da! (What you did was stupid) " Ryo said with a smile and pulled his brother's cap down hard before taking his cap off and placing it on Jun's head so Ryoma couldn't do the same.
"Ryo…" Ryoma said dangerously as his hand darted out towards Ryo.
"Aniki!" Ryo said before dodging the hand and fell to the floor from the bench. "Itai! (Ouch!)"
Ryoma merely looked down and smiled, "Zama Miro… (Serves you right)"
Ryo merely pouted as he accepted Jun's help in standing. The slight tremor of the touch ran through Ryo as he quickly let go of Jun's hand before something else happened.
"Want your hat back?" Jun asked with a smile, knowing full well that Ryo was feeling a bit shy now.
"Aa…" Ryo said refusing to make eye contact with Jun. The slight brush of his hand against Jun was already affecting enough between the two of them…who knew what eye contact would do.
Ryo looked up to catch Fuji staring at Ryoma's head and he frowned slightly. The look confirmed his suspicion that Fuji was still very much in love with his aniki.
"Jun…"
Jun smiled. Usually Ryo only said his name in that certain way if he wanted something.
"What?" Jun asked.
"Help me pull something off later…" Ryo said keeping an eye on Fuji.
"Anything…for a price…" Jun whispered.
"Matsuma!" Ryo said roughly with a scowl.
"Fine…but just one kiss…" Jun said with a small smile.
Ryo merely frowned and nodded. His brother and Fuji had better thank him for giving up himself for a chance to make them see they belong together.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
" It's okay…" Ryoma and Ryo said at the same time to Aikawa as he came back completely out of breath. They had won singles 3 and doubles 2 so Aikawa losing single 2 wasn't a big deal.
"Get out there Inui, Matsuma!" Ryo said
"Aa…" They both said and stood. Ryoma had warned them they had better be somewhat compatible with everyone since he wanted to try many combinations for singles and doubles.
"Don't fail me…" Ryo whispered to Jun as he held Jun's hand tightly for a few seconds.
"Aa…" Jun said with a smile.
"What did you tell him?" Ryoma asked with a knowing smile.
"Betsuni! (Nothing)" Ryo said pulling his hat down before sitting in his spot.
Ryoma merely smiled and sat next to Ryo to enjoy the match.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"That was by far one of your best games Matsuma…." Ryoma said with a knowing smile. Encouragement from the one you love could do wonders…
"Arigatou…" Jun said as he turned to receive hugs from his parents who had stepped forward.
"You did well." Asuka said placing a chaste kiss on her son's forehead.
"Aa…" Jun said and felt his father's hand ruffle his hair slightly in approval.
"Are you two going to stop by-"
"The Atobe's? We are right after this…you're father has a meeting and he insists I go home to rest a bit." Asuka said wrapping an arm around her husband who returned a possessive hug around his wife.
"Aa…' Jun said and noted that Ryoma was advancing. "Okaa-san, Otou-san…this is Echizen Ryoma…my coach."
"Hajimemashite." Ryoma said with a slight tilt of his head in greeting. " I just wanted to thank the both of you in more ways then one."
"Iie…" Jer said, "We are glad to be able to help."
Ryoma nodded. "It still needed to be said though…"
"As long as you take care of our son as well, we'll be happy to oblige." Asuka said with a small smile.
"Matsuma-san…I'll take care of Jun just like I care for Ryo…" Ryoma said.
Jer nodded with approval. "Then we'll take our leave to finish some business…"
"Aa…" Ryoma said and watched Jer lead his wife away. He didn't need to ask to know that their marriage was a love match. It was apparent when he saw Matsuma's father's eye soften for his wife to his possessive arm around her.
'I envy that so…' Ryoma thought with a tiny smile.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Ryo saw the look in his brother's eyes as he watched Jun's parents walked away. It seemed his brother really missed having a love like that.
"I'll fix it soon!" Ryo swore softly.
"Did I fail you?"
A shiver ran through Ryo's spine as Jun's breath touched the tip of his earlobe.
"Iie…" Ryo said as he turned to face Jun. "Gather the others, we have to thank Midoriyama for the match.
"Aa…" Jun said knowing fully well that Ryo would have to reward him later.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"My only regret was that your son didn't play"
"Mada mada dane" Ryoma said with a smirk.
Unknown on the sideline, Inui wondered why everyone thought Ryoma was the coach and always shook his hand and talked to him.
'Charisma or cockiness?' Inui wondered.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Atobe mansion
"My parents didn't tell me we were expecting you." Atobe said a bit embarrassed by his bruised face.
"It's no problem, we wanted to see you." Jer said
"Me?"
"Aa…about a certain case you and your parents decided to support Atobe-san." Jer said accepting the tea from the maid and turned to make sure his wife was comfortable.
"A case you say?"
"It had to do with Echizen and Hajimoto I believe…"
"Does the case concern you Matsuma-san?" Atobe asked a bit tense now.
"It does highly concern us since we are Echizen's defense." Asuka added with a small smile. "Atobe-san… I suggest you pull your support because I can assure you the Matsuma's elite lawyers will not lose…even if we have to dig up the whole case and reformat every detail…"
Atobe swallowed. If everyone thought Matsuma Jer was a scary man, it was Matsuma Asuka that Atobe feared. Behind her beauty and innocence was a deadly woman…whether through words or actions. Everyone who knew her knew she had her husband's support through anything.
"If you excuse us now Atobe-san…" Jer said standing to help his wife up. " I have a meeting that I can't put off. We thought we'd stop by to mention we were helping Echizen to counter-sue for custody."
"Other than that, I would just like you to think about it Atobe-san…" Asuka finished and followed her husband out of the house.
Atobe clenched his fist in anger. It was definite that if he didn't pull out now, he'd lose more than he already lost.
"Get me my cell phone!" Atobe shouted at the nearest maid. Atobe Keigo was definitely NOT in a good mood.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Back at Nationals
"The best four are as followed." The announcer said, "Higa (Okinawa region), Hyoutei (Tokyo Region), Shitenhouji (Osaka Region) and Seigaku (Tokyo region). All four of these teams will advance to semifinals in 2 days! Congratulations!"
Fuji hand stopped as he almost pressed the button for Ponta instead of water. Pushing the water button, he forced his hand away from the grape Ponta. He had told Tezuka he was going to get something to drink so he could have some breathing room away from Tezuka and Ryoma.
Fuji was about to head back when he heard 2 familiar voices behind the vending machine.
"…I feel really bad Jun…Aniki gave up Fuji-senpai for me."
"Ryo…"
"I overheard him when Fuji-senpai left that day. He called Ryuzaki-san and thanked her for pretending to be his girlfriend…aniki purposely pushed Fuji-senpai away so Atobe and Hajimoto couldn't hurt Fuji-senpai…"
"Are you sure about that?"
"Aa…he didn't want them to use Fuji-senpai against him…now he's miserable-"
Fuji dropped his water bottle as he processed all the information he was receiving. For a Tensai, he felt like he did not understand anything at all… searching the stands, he looked for Ryoma. Running towards the crowd he whipped Kikumaru around to face him roughly.
"Fujiko?" Kikumaru asked a bit scared at the force Fuji had used.
"Where's Ryoma?"
Kikumaru blinked a couple of times before Momoshiro pushed Kikumaru aside and answered Fuji's question.
"He headed home on foot, said he needed to do some thinking…"
"Thanks…tell Tezuka…"
"I'll tell him." Momoshiro said and ushered for Fuji to go. "Do the right thing Fuji-senpai…"
Fuji didn't hear as he went to his car. He'd go see Ryoma…'HIS' Ryoma…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Did we do it?" Ryo asked peeking from behind the vending machine.
"Aa…he went running off." Matsuma said putting his arms around Ryo.
"Oi! Not here!" Ryo said pushing out.
"Mou! You owe me for not failing you and this charade!" Jun said with a pout.
"I'm staying the night aren't I?" Ryo said slinging his tennis bag over his shoulder. "Let's head to your house…"
"Aa…" Jun said with a smile. For sure tonight, he wasn't going to let Ryo escape his grasp!
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Ryoma felt drained as he continued on his silent walk home. He could've taken the bus or asked for a ride but he wanted to be alone…to think things through…but mostly he wanted to see something Oishi mentioned. Despite his slowness today though, he wanted to get home soon as well. Today Hajimoto had allowed Ryo to stay with Matsuma. He had selfishly walked off after the announcement of the Best Four to cool himself and see the photography shop.
"It was quite sudden but I heard the man who owned the store immediately signed over all the paperwork to Fuji as soon as he got back from New York" Oishi said with a smile. "It seems he's opening a bigger one here in Tokyo soon and doesn't care about this small one anymore!"
Ryoma stopped completely when he saw the store. Slowly he walked towards to window of the shop and couldn't decide if he should smile or scowl…or maybe even cry.
In the center of a few pictures Fuji had taken, a picture of him was there. Ryoma was sure it was a picture Fuji had taken without permission like usual. He was sleeping on a counter, using his arm as a headrest.
Placing his hand gently on the glass, Ryoma smiled slightly. " Be happy Syuusuke…"
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Ryoma pulled out his house keys. His walk had taken longer than he expected and he was sure Karupin would ne agitated from being fed late.
"Mada mada." Ryoma chided himself as he looked up to see Fuji sitting on the doorstep with downcast eyes.
Ryoma felt his heart slow to a painful stop and stood there unsure of what to do next. His mind told him it was his house and he could do what he wants ignoring the person at the door if he wanted to but his heart told him to run…to avoid this encounter because being alone with him was dangerous.
Minding his heart and its painful ache, Ryoma turned to leave.
"Ryoma!"
Ryoma froze. The voice he longed to hear was so close yet his heart ached so much from hearing it call his name.
"Matte (wait) Ryoma…"
Ryoma closed his eyes tightly and drew upon all his strength to turn and face him.
"What did you forget Fuji-senpai?"
"I…Ryoma…I want to know the truth…why did you push me away?"
"You shouldn't be here." Ryoma countered instead.
"I know that! But I want to know!"
"It's wrong Fuji-senpai… what would Tezuka-senpai think?" Ryoma asked stuffing his hands into his pockets.
"I don't care right now…answer my question Ryoma!" Fuji said looking straight into Ryoma's eyes.
"You want to know the truth? I already told you!" Ryoma said with the best smirk he could muster. Ignoring the great pangs of guilt and pain he was putting himself through, he explained. "I just wanted to fool around with you for a while; after all it was fun seeing if I could get between Tezuka-senpai and you."
It was one of the hardest lies that Ryoma had to spill out as he looked straight into Fuji's eyes harshly. He saw the sadness enter Fuji's eyes and he restrained himself to not pull Fuji into his arms. He knew they weren't meant to be, he knew if he did this, he'd only hurt Fuji.
"Did you ever love me Ryoma?" Fuji asked after a long silence between them.
Ryoma suppressed the tears and anguish that he felt building up in his throat. Swallowing hard to get rid of the emotions, he gave his most cocky look and said, " Never…I never did."
With that, Ryoma turned to unlock the gate to go inside. He couldn't stand to hurt himself and Syuusuke anymore, he had to put distance in-between them. One day, he'd see that being cruel now would lead Syuusuke down a happier path then being with him and suffering through these court battles.
As much as it hurt to let Syuusuke go, he had to let go…from here on out.
'I can't love you the way you should be loved Syuusuke…' Ryoma thought sadly as tears entered his eyes and he turned back to close the gates only to find Syuusuke opening the gate wider to wrap his arms around him.
"Why are you hurting yourself Ryoma…why are you acting so tough when you need me?" Fuji asked softly burying his head into Ryoma soft hair. Ryoma had no idea what to do. He was feeling confused and shocked…he had tried his best to push the one he loved away, yet here Syuusuke was holding him as he'd always done and loving him unconditionally.
"Ryoma…" Fuji muttered softly before pressing his lips against Ryoma's forehead softly. "Don't leave me like this…"
Ryoma shut his eyes tightly and ignored the trail of tears that trailed his face; he looked at Fuji with anguished filled eyes of regret and pain.
"Please Syuu-… Fuji-senpai… you're better off without me…" Ryoma said brokenly. He no longer could act like he didn't care or didn't love Syuusuke. He was destroying himself inside out and this confrontation was only making it worse…
Fuji merely smiled as pulled Ryoma closer and when he was as close as he could get, Fuji still held him tighter as if they could become one. "Baka…I never had a single regret about meeting you Ryoma. I want to be with Ryo and you…I love YOU."
The pillar had fallen. That was the only way Fuji could explain the way Ryoma cling to him in desperation. But it had not fallen to the ground; it had fallen to be supported by the person he was trying to protect.
"Aishiteru…" Ryoma muttered after a while.
Fuji merely held him tighter as he closed the gates softly. " I think I've always known that Ryoma."
"Did you?" Ryoma asked unlocking the front door.
"Aa…" Fuji said as he stepped inside the house and looked around. The house looked exactly the same as the day he left. Turning his gaze back to Ryoma, he never felt so relieved to see his lover's golden eyes looking at him with love and warmth.
"Okaeri… (Welcome back)" Ryoma said softly with a small smile.
Fuji shut the front door and slid out of his shoes before embracing Ryoma tightly. "Tadaima (I'm home)"
For the first time in a long time, both felt at ease…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Outside of the Echizen Residence
"Baka!" Ryo muttered as Jun and he easily entered the house since they didn't lock the gate.
"Let's see if they went in to talk." Jun said as he snuck to the side of the house where it had a window to the living room.
"See them?" Ryo asked.
"I…" Jun suddenly got quiet so Ryo looked in as well.
One thing was for sure…they were together…but talking was out of the question as Ryo saw his aniki and Fuji-senpai on the couch kissing deeply and pulling at the other's clothes.
"We better go!" Ryo decided pulling his cap down to hide his embarrassment at catching such a scene.
"Why? They're just getting…"
"I'm going home!" Ryo announced and to his satisfaction Jun followed a bit unhappily.
"Perv…" Ryo muttered.
"I just wanted to see if I could learn some moves to please you." Jun admitted and grinned when he saw Ryo's scowling, but red face.
"You're worse than a pervert!" Ryo said heading to where Jun had his driver park the car.
"What's worst than a pervert?" Jun asked following him to the car.
"A Matsuma." Ryo stated as he climbed into the car.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
2 Days Later at Semi-finals
Ryo unknowingly grabbed and squeezed Jun's hand in happiness when he saw his aniki with a smile on his face and a hand in Fuji's as they approached the group.
"Happy Ryo?" Jun asked gripping his hand back in loving support.
Ryo suddenly realized they were also holding hands and jerked his hand away. "Aa…"
Jun merely smiled back as Ryo scowled looking around to see if anyone had seen them holding hands.
"Baka! Why did you hold my hand?" Ryo muttered.
"I? It was you who held my hand tightly Ryo…I merely squeezed back to show you I understood your happiness." Jun said teasingly.
Ryo merely frowned at him and walked off towards his brother.
"Aniki!" Ryo said demanding attention from his brother.
"Hmm?" Ryoma asked glancing down at Ryo.
"You owe me." Ryo merely said before walking off.
"For what?" Ryoma called after.
"You know!" Ryo said without turning back as he grabbed a spare racquet from his tennis bag and ball.
"Ponta Ryo?" Ryoma said even if he didn't understand what he owed.
"Yadda! What I did and sacrificed was a lot more than Ponta!" Ryo said with a small pout.
Really confused now, Ryoma lifted a brow and looked at Fuji who shrugged back with a confused look as well. "We'll talk about that later Ryo!"
"Aa!"
"Don't you mean when you figure out what you owe him?" Fuji asked teasingly as he wrapped an arm around Ryoma.
"Aa…" Ryoma said with a sigh before covering Fuji's hand with his own.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"I'm hurt you could refer to our passionate night as a sacrifice!" Jun said with a teasing frown as they both practiced hitting the ball against the wall.
"Uresai (shut up)… you missed your spot." Ryo muttered back as he continued hitting the tennis ball.
"Ne Ryo…I wonder if we're playing today? After all, it is semi-finals." Matsuma said trying to concentrate on the ball.
"You're always playing," Ryo complained with a scowl. "It's me who Aniki and Inui-sensei always restricts!"
"Do you want to play?" Jun asked turning to face Ryo.
"Of course." Ryo said as he caught his own tennis ball and looked at Jun. "Ike…It's almost time."
Jun merely nodded and followed after he bent to pick up his own ball. The line-up hadn't been discussed yet, but if Ryo wasn't playing he'd say something…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Syuusuke…"
Fuji turned to see Tezuka with his usual disproving frown and for the first time in a while Fuji truly smiled. "Tezuka…"
"What are you doing?" Tezuka demanded.
"I'm doing what I should've done and realized a while ago Tezuka…forgive me…"
"Syuusuke-"
"Tezuka" Fuji cut in as he stared off to where Ryoma was gathering the regulars around for the announcement of the line-up. "I never realized how much I was suppressing myself until I met Ryoma again…every since I've been with him, I feel like I'm ME."
A pause settled between before Tezuka turned Fuji roughly to face him.
"So you weren't yourself when you were with me?"
"Iie…I wasn't." Fuji admitted. " I didn't realize it until Ryoma opened my eyes…I'm sorry Tezuka…I can't come back."
"We did things together as well, we played tennis!"
"It was when you felt like it Tezuka, not when I felt like it." Fuji said with a regretful smile, " Besides that we never did anything much but read, have sex and stay apart."
"So you're saying you do more with him?"
Fuji smiled softly, "Aa…we do much more…he's considerate of what I want to do as well…"
"So you're saying I force you to play tennis." Tezuka demanded.
"Not really…it's just implied when you ask to go." Fuji said softly.
"And he doesn't force you to even if he's a professional?" Tezuka asked.
"Iie…I never feel pressured to play or not with Ryoma." Fuji said immediately.
Tezuka merely sighed. " Syuusuke…I'll never understand why…"
"It's okay…as long as you forgive me for being so indecisive." Fuji said after a while.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Everyone ready?" Ryoma asked with a small smile as everyone nodded bravely.
"Think we can do it Echizen-san?" Kitawaru asked.
"Baka! If I didn't believe you could I wouldn't train any of you!" Ryoma said with a smirk. "Have faith in your abilities and remember, although they were last year's champions they are all mada mada compared to our hard work!"
"Usu!" They all said and waited silently for the line-up.
"Because this is semi-finals we are going to start strong." Inui-sensei said as he walked over. " Shitenhouji's matches that I have recorded in the past and against Midoriyama have revealed that they finish as soon as possible."
"Then that means…" Inui-junior started
" Matsuma will go in as singles 3" Inui-sensei finished.
"Matsuma?" Everyone said.
"Yes…is he not strong?" Inui-sensei asked with a raised brow.
"Iie…when you said strong we thought you meant buchou…" Moritaka said looking towards Ryo.
"I see…" Inui-sensei with a small smile as he opened his notebook to write down his "data".
"Does that mean Buchou is our insurance in singles 1 again?" Kira asked bored.
"Iie," Ryoma said ruffling Ryo's hair softly. " Ryo will be singles 2 for insurance…if they want to throw their strongest first then it's only right we try to win the first 3 matches as well."
Everyone nodded in understanding.
"Doubles 2 Inui/Kira pair, Doubles 1 Aikawa/Kitawaru pair and Singles 1 Moritaka." Inui-sensei finished up.
"Ike!" Ryoma said ruffling all their hair with a smirk.
"Aa!" They echoed and followed Ryo over to the net to greet Shitenhouji.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Think he'll win?" Fuji asked sliding an arm around Ryoma's waist from behind.
Ryoma leaned back a little and sighed. " I don't know…Matsuma's good but they are good as well…we'll just have to watch."
Fuji nodded into Ryoma's hair that he propped his head on and focused his attention back into the upcoming game.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"It's no good." Ryo said to his brother.
Ryoma only nodded back. Although Matsuma was Seigaku's Tensai, even Matsuma wouldn't be able to figure out this irregular play style.
"He's going to lose?" Fuji asked with a frown.
"Aa…" Ryoma and Ryo echoed at the same time.
Although the game was only 6-5 right now, with the amount of concentration and stamina needed, Matsuma wasn't going to last.
"Daijoubu Jun! Just give it your best!" Ryo called out.
Everyone, including Ryoma turned to stare at Ryo. It was rare for Ryo to say, let along yell that out. Despite that though, after Ryo's encouragement Matsuma seemed to relax more and just play like he would normally play.
"Will he lose anyways?" Kira asked Ryo.
Ryo merely nodded. Although it might be a hard loss as a first match Ryo knew this was Shitenhouji…
'Next time Jun…' Ryo thought as he watched Jun continue to hold his ground.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Gomen…" Matsuma said as he sat next to Ryo in a slump.
"Iie… you did well…right Aniki?" Ryo said handing Jun his towel.
"Aa…I believe this match showed you that you're still mada mada." Ryoma said with a small smile.
Matsuma merely nodded and looked to where his parents were sitting. His mother merely smiled with no trace of disappointment and his father merely nodded his approval of him giving his all.
"Leave the first win to Inui and me, Matsuma…" Kira said standing.
"Aa…" Matsuma said with a nod.
"Go, fight, and win!" Ryoma said to the two as they headed to the court.
"Aa," Both said as they walked out confidently.
"That's a lot of pride for a team who just lost a match!" Shitenhouji's team yelled out.
"We came here to win." Inui said with a smile, " So we're confident."
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Confident still?" Shitenhouji Coach asked looking at Ryoma. Inui and Kira were behind a game…3-4.
"Aa" Ryoma said with a smile. He nodded at Inui-senpai who was still frowning from the fact that he was being completely overlooked as the coach and Inui reluctantly nodded back. Inui signaled to Kira and Kira nodded back in understanding.
"Inui…we're attacking." Kira announced and got ready to return the slice coming towards him.
"Aa!" Inui said, " To the right a bit Kira."
Shifting to the right, Kira hit it back to their opponent's side only to find it sailing back.
'Oh well… it wouldn't be fun if last year's champions were weak.' Kira decided as he ran up to hit the ball only to run to the side while Inui hit it softly back with a drop shot.
"15-40"
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"About time…" Kitawaru muttered watching the pair. It seemed Echizen-san had asked them to conserve their strength till they absolutely needed to use it.
"Are we confident about this match?" Aikawa asked.
"Aa…" Came multiple echoes from the regulars.
"I have no doubt about it…." Himiko said walking over to sit next to her brother. " Kira's pride is on the line…"
"His pride?" Everyone asked.
"Aa…I asked him to win his match for me…if he didn't then…"
"Then?" Aikawa and Kitawaru asked at the same time.
"Betsuni (Nothing)" Himiko said turning to her brother. " Otoutou…you never told me you and Ryo-kun was like that!"
Ryo choked a bit on the Ponta he had just started drinking as Matsuma gave his sister a hard stare.
"Okay okay…I'll ask later! No need to give me dad's disapproving look!" Himiko said looking back at the match.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Kira frowned a bit as they tied games at 4-4. Not so much that they were tied but the fact that Himiko was giving him "that" smile. Letting a breath out he turned to Inui who was getting ready to serve…for the sake of the team they needed to win the next two games.
"Ready Kira?" Inui asked tossing the ball up.
"Aa…" Kira said watching the expressions of their opponents carefully.
"Ike!" Inui said softly as he served a fast flat serve towards Shitenhouji. With approval Kira and he could move and play freely now.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"4games to 6, Seigaku Inui/Kira pair!" The referee called out.
" You two did well." Ryoma said as they walked pass to the pats and cheer of their teammates.
"Ready Ryo?" Ryoma asked without turning around.
"Usu…" Ryo said standing with his racquet in hand. The uproar of cheers and boo came to a halt when Ryo stepped out. No one had expected the buchou to be playing singles 2.
Ryo merely ignored the silence and went out to greet his opponent.
" 60 max Aniki?" Ryo asked as he stood at the net.
"Aa…" Ryoma said relaxing back into Fuji's arms.
"Nice to meet you…I'm honored I get to play the buchou!" The short brown-haired boy said.
"You are?" Ryo asked bored.
" The Fukubuchou, 2nd best in Shitenhouji." He said proudly.
"Too bad your buchou lost in doubles 2." Ryo merely stated before setting his racquet down. " Which?"
"Smooth…" The kid said after deciding not to take his insult of their buchou to heart.
'You'll eat your words when I defeat you!' The kid thought happily as it he watched the racquet fall smooth side up.
"Serve!" He said with pride. He'd start out strong and not underestimate this buchou! After all, rumor had it he barely played this year because he was too good.
Ryo didn't answer. All he did was walk to where he needed to be and got ready to receive.
'You'll be sorry!' The boy thought as he started to bounce the ball in anticipation. The excitement of getting to face off with Seigaku's buchou was bubbling inside of him…
"Oi! Could you hurry?" Ryo asked with a frown.
Tossing the ball at his own pace, the boy smiled at the mess he'd give Seigaku's buchou soon…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"1 game love…Shitenhouji!"
Aikawa groaned. "Even buchou lost the first game…"
"It wasn't his service game either…" Kitawaru pointed out.
"Don't worry…." Matsuma said with a smile. "Ryo is only toying with the poor fool…"
"Is he Echizen-san?" Moritaka asked with a small frown.
"Aa…" Ryoma said irritated now at the slow pace. " Ryo!"
Ryo didn't turn around at all. " Wakarimashta! (I understand)" Ryo merely yelled back as he bounced the ball.
Ryo looked at the boy and smiled. " Sorry, but I can't play with you anymore!"
Throwing the ball up he could hear people mumbling about him doing his famous Twisted serve. As usual, Ryo rather have the audience wait and executed a slice serve instead. He smile as he scored a no-touch ace…it seemed the boy was expecting his twisted serve as well.
'Mada mada… I never knew my serve got so popular…" Ryo thought with a smirk. Again he bounced the ball…maybe this time he'd show them a good Twisted serve.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
"Game, Set, Match…Seigaku, Echizen Ryo 6 games to 1" The referee called out.
"Their buchou was really just playing around with out 2nd best huh?" Shitenhouji members asked one another.
"I think so…" Another answered.
"Ryo…" Ryoma said when he walked over.
"I know…" Ryo said with a small grin. " But it was fun to play."
"Buchou… you're taking this very easy…" Aikawa said grabbing his racquet.
"You should as well and win this so we can go check out the monkey's!" Ryo said
"Do your best!" Ryoma yelled after Aikawa ands Kitawaru.
"Aa…" They both echoed and stepped onto the courts.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Meanwhile
Atobe Mansion
"What do you mean?"" I told you, Ore-sama can no longer support you because a bigger fish got involved… the lawyers will still support you if you go through with it but Ore-sama is out!" Atobe said with a small frown.
"But without you, Echizen won't give up!"" That's something you can deal with them Hajimoto-san." Atobe shut off the phone abruptly.
He felt a tinge of anger as he thought of how Ryoma could worm his way into the Matsuma's…
"Sylvie?" Atobe said suddenly.
"What is it Atobe-sama?"
"What's the connection between Echizen and the Matsuma's?"
"I believe it's because Echizen Ryo and Matsuma Jun are close and attend Seigaku together."
"Jun….The Matsuma's only son right?" Atobe asked after a moment.
"Aa…"
"So that's how it is…." Atobe muttered…
………………………………………………………………………………………..
NationalsHyoutei
"That was so uncool Hayama!" Jinnai yelled out as Hayama came back to the bench losing 2-6 to Higa-chu.
"Uresai (shut up) Jinnai…let's see you do better since you're next." Hayama said.
So far Hyoutei had won singles 3 and lost doubles 2 and singles 2.
"Watch…" Jinnai said with a smile and ushered his partner, Kurosawa with him.
"Let's show them Yano!" Jinnai said to Kurosawa.
"Aa…We have to win this so buchou will have a chance to play."
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Nationals Seigaku
(A/N: Sorry for cutting everything a bit short but I'm nearing 20 pages )
Ryoma turned his head and stared at Moritaka as he stood.
"It's up to you…"
Moritaka nodded bravely. Doubles 1 had lost 6-4 and it was up to him, Singles 1 to see if they would advance. He felt a burden settle on his shoulder and as he walke dout to the courts, he felt slightly disappointed that no one was watching him in the stands besides his friends.
"Aniki!"
Moritaka turned a bit to smile at his sister but what rendered him speechless was the fact that his mother and father sat with Seiko. His mother waved a bit but his father merely looked at him. The burden that had settle earlier started to feel lighter as a wave of confidence and pride started inside Moritaka. He wasn't going to fail Seigaku and he wouldn't fail to show his father that Tennis would get him somewhere.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
Hajimoto arrived just as roars of awe went into the air as the final 2 were decided. It seemed that Seigaku and Hyoutei would be going head to head 2 days from now. Both from the Tokyo region and filled with rivalry, everyone wanted to see the outcome. Atobe Kei of course had confidence that he'd be standing here as one of the final 2 and Echizen Ryo gave no inch of fear either as he ignored Atobe Kei's sarcastic remarks.
Hajimoto fidgeted a bit as he saw Ryoma standing next to Fuji happily… a wave of guilt filled him but he breathed deeply as Ryo approached him.
" I'm going to be with my aniki tonight." Ryo merely informed him.
"Ryo…" Hajimoto started ad bet slightly to look at his son. "You know… whatever happens in court, you ca always stay with me and we can get to know each other better so I can be a better father..."
He didn't continue as he watched Ryo shake his head and back away slightly. " I never saw you as my father and I never will. My dad, brother, friend… whatever will always be Echizen Ryoma…I'm an Echizen, not a Hajimoto." Ryo stated clearly and walked back to rejoin the big group of people congratulating the Seigaku regulars.
Hajimoto felt a bit jealous as he watched Ryoma interact happily with his lover to throwing insults at rivaling schools coaches. It seemed he didn't have a single worry in life while He, Hajimoto Sei, was struggling every step of the way!
'Rich people!' Hajimoto thought with a frown.
………………………………………………………………………………………..
That night.
"Ryo?"
Ryo turned to see Ryoma standing at the doorway to his old room.
" Is there something wrong?" Ryoma asked.
"Iie…It's just nice to be home with you and Fuji-san." Ryo said sitting on his bed.
"We missed you too." Fuji said pooping his head in.
"I can tell…" Ryo said sarcastically as he looked at all the cactus on his desk to Karupin's toys. It seemed his room was beginning to belong to Karupin and Cactuses only.
"Gomen… Karupin missed you a bit." Ryoma said looking at the various toys Karupin enjoyed scattered by Karupin's bed.
Ryo stared out his window to the backyard where the tennis courts were.
"Aniki… will you help me advance as far as you?" Ryo asked.
"Aa…" Ryoma said pulling Ryo's hat off to ruffle his hair. " Tomorrow though…get to bed!"
Ryo started to pout then decided to scowl instead. " Stop doing that to my hair!"
Ryoma merely smiled, " Mada Mada Ryo… you're already behind since I opened Teni Muchou Ni Kiwami (Pinnacle of perfection) when I was a 1st year."
"Guess I'm not a Prince of tennis then." Ryo said.
"You are… in your own way." Fuji said. " You're advancing just right Ryo…after all, in two days you'll settle the score with Atobe right?"
Ryo nodded with a smirk. "When I beat him, I'll make him eat all the insults he ever threw."
Fuji smiled sadistically as well. " Or we could-"
"Syuusuke!" Ryoma frowned disapproving of whatever the Tensai was going to say.
Fuji merely smiled regretfully at Ryo and ruffled the boy's hair as well. " Oyasumi Ryo."
Ryo fixed his hair once more with a scowl and nodded. Although he hated them ruffling his hair, somewhere in the back of his mind he was very thankful that they loved him enough to do that. As they started to leave, Ryo suddenly thought of something and he opened his mouth to speak it.
"Oi… keep it down tonight Aniki… I want a good night's rest!"
Ryoma frowned at Ryo but Fuji merely turned around with a scary smile. " We'll make sure you hear everything Ryo…but…you're suppose to ignore that aren't you?"
"…Aa…" Ryo merely agreed and was glad Fuji had taken that answer and left with his aniki in toll. Teasing Fuji-san was something he had to be careful with!
Crawling into bed he pulled out his cell and stared at it. He sighed as he wondered if he should call Jun or not…
'Iie!' Ryo chided himself 'Don't seem to desperate!'
Pulling the covers up Ryo heard the familiar thumps from his brother's room and smiled. Closing his eyes he felt content to remain like this…
A/N: That's it people! For this chapter at least! I hope you'll all review and stay tuned for the last chapter, which will be coming soon. The last chapter will close all the loose ends and cover Finals! Talking about my story ending, Konomi-sensei has also announced that he's ending the series as well! Well stick around for the closing of this story and OMG! My bad habit already has me thinking up new stories! But no worries! Chapters for Somewhere In-between and Wet With Tears will be released before I undertake another story! Enough babbling for me now! Just review the story with your thoughts and I'll luff you all!
