"Chapter 7: Resolve"

The third session being held is so far the quietest. The therapist for a peculiar reason decided not to be chatty that day. While the client due to a brush of pride would not make the first move. The female as always dutifully did the relaxing routine. Every now and then, the male in his peripheral vision would steal glances. The woman looks calm, so does it mean things went well last week?

The man silently cursed, why did this girl not respond to his message? Ryoma Echizen seldom send personal texts. How dare this woman not answer after getting him involved? Well he really is not directly involved. However knowing the situation has made him engaged to the predicament. His inner self scolded to let the situation be. There was nothing to gain in meddling nor knowing.

The lad sighed, why can't the lass just even drop a hint? It would not kill to be enlightened. He had to know if the idiot monarch is suffering. "Sorry I did not answer your message last time." The girl muttered out suddenly. "It's more fitting to answer it personally."

It looks like the prince's curiosity will be quenched. "Ryoma-kun, Sato and I talked to Ludovic. As expected he remained stubborn." The client grunted at the information. So the lunatic is still delusional of having a shot. "I decided to stop contacting him. Starting that day, I have not kept in touch."

"You can keep it up till the end?" The male challenged. "I am determined." Was the reply. Looks like Chardad will be having a difficult time nonetheless. "Was the game interesting for you?" The therapist continued. "It was quite intense, France's experience really pulled through." Praises for the royalty did not fit in well with the patient. "I can beat the crap out of him any day."

"If you seriously follow the plan. There is fifty percent you can." The lass encouraged and added, since when did the girl started thinking like Inui senpai? "A small statistic, but hope is hope right?" The tennis prodigy mumbled in affirmation. "I suggest after the fourth session, get another full check-up." The therapist advised. "There might be some changes needed based on the progress."

"I have been practicing by myself at least an hour three times a week." The client confessed. "My swings are much more comfortable now." Sakuno's heart swelled with news. The hard work that both of them are conducting is bearing fruit. "As for the doctor's assessment, I'll make time next week."

As the treatment was to end, a familiar deep voice called out searching for Ryoma. "Chibisuke! You home?" The owner of the flat groaned, of all the days this guy chose to visit. "Chibisuke, we are too old to play hide and seek." The tennis star lifted himself from the bed to hurriedly put a shirt on. In haste accidentally hit the lady's forehead. Due to shock and pain, the female was pushed to lie flat a top the bed. In panic, the male moved in all fours to check how the lass is doing. "You okay?"

On que during the turmoil, the owner of the voice peeked into the master bedroom. The visitor's orbs gazing back and forth to the man and woman positioned on the mattress. A malicious grin adorned his face. Who can blame him? It is rather a suggestive sight. "Sorry to interrupt. You should have closed the door." Looks like the rascal had some fire towards the opposite sex after all.

Irately, the owner of the house stood up and regained composure. No way in hell will the satisfaction be given to his sorry excuse of a brother. Grabbing a neatly folded shirt the prince confronted the unwanted guest. "Ryoga, practice some courtesy. It will not kill to inform in advance." The prodigy hissed. "So you can prepare? Where is the fun in that Chibisuke?" The elder walked up close to where the girl is now seated.

Ryoga glanced at the female's face was flushing. The bun holding her auburn hair is now disheveled. The appearance of this woman is oddly familiar. Have they met before? Or did they meet in some official event perhaps? Honestly, the lady has a beautiful face. Noting from the features she is Japanese. Those are nice pair of almond shaped eyes, the man surmised. Well if Ryoma is really not into her, it would not hurt to introduce himself.

"Stay back, she in mutual relationship." The younger man declared as if reading the guest's mind. His voice sounded spiteful to the older's amusement. Looks like his little brother is dealing a different kind of defeat. Halting the move to get closer to the girl, with confidence the visitor introduced himself. "Ryoga Echizen, I am the twerps older sibling. Nice to meet you miss?"

The medical student stood up and bowed in perfect Japanese style. "Ryuzaki, Sakuno. I am Ryoma's physical therapist." The senior man raised eyebrows. "Recently graduated? No offense but you're too young?" Placing fingers underneath his chin, the male continued to scrutinize the lass. "Chibisuke's team is usually composed of experienced boring old folks that money can buy." The speaker switched focused to his brother. "Oi! You're not planning to do anything shady are you? Honestly that would be worse than Dad."

The prince fumed at the accusation, how he dare compare him with their father? "For the record Donald was the one who insisted." The later smirked, yeah that loaded geezer is too pushy. Looks like the prodigy was forced to take the offer. Gazing back at the nervous woman, the guest smiled gently. "Sorry to scare you Sakuno." With a grin full of mischievousness. "Chibisuke does not let just anyone touch him. He trusts you a lot."

The statement was meant to be a compliment. It is something the girl understood. However hearing it from someone else is extremely flattering. Even the patient himself confirmed he is doing better now. "Chibisuke, why won't we test the fruits of you therapy?" The elder challengingly questioned. "You maybe not in top form, but your itching to play with someone instead of a wall right?"

The declaration made the female worry. Is the prince ready to duke it out with another person? "Ano..,Uhm its quite early to do that.." The woman tried to interrupt. "Hn." The amber eyed lad smirked. "If it's just an hour its fine."

"Ryoma-kun no, muscle strain is a huge risk." The girl warned. "Don't worry beautiful I'll go easy on him." The senior man affirmed and pointed at the prodigy. "He needs to blow some steam off with tennis rival." He took step closer to the girl. "Besides I am his dependable…" His litany was cut short by a speeding pillow. "What the heck squirt?!"

Ryoma eyed him angrily. Is he upset that his brother is smooth talking the lass? "Are you ignorant of what a mutual relationship is?" The owner of the space hissed. "That level does not mean exclusivity twerp! Honestly even married people can switch affections." The lady gasped at the older male's explanation. "Don't be naïve sweetheart, there are strong numbers to prove it."

"So much for expecting some tact from you Nii-san." The cat eyed man crossed his arms and added. "You, me in the practice room now." With a smirk both Echizen's headed out the room leaving a puzzled Sakuno muttering. "Practice room?"

"Yeah rich kid has it on the next floor, wanna go?" The elder invited. "I would love to have some lovely audience, instead of the boring biased AI." The senior continued to explain. "AI?" the female whispered. "Yeah, the AI named Ponta, analyzes biometrics whenever pipsqueak plays."

"Shut up you and oyaji named that thing." The younger defended and ushered his brother to get going. The woman followed suit worried things might get out of hand. "Donald's chopper will be picking you up soon." The statement was meant to block the therapist into seeing the match. "I have time to spare. I will contact the pilot."

The client shrugged and muttered "Suit yourself." The trio headed to the game room. As expected it was huge and very modern. This facility was only for the prince of tennis? It has a standard size professional tennis court. The flooring mimic's Wimbledon's grass texture. There is another court made of same material as the solid courts. There is a thermometer and humidifier available. Looks like the area is also programmed to copy the weather conditions of a tournament. Checking the lighting fixtures, it seemed to have a adjustable settings too.

"What will it be your highness?" The guest inquired. "Wimbledon, I am itching to kick some European ass." The visitor smirked at the prince's reply. "Now I feel bad not wearing my Spanish jersey." The two males headed to the grass like court. "Ponta set the room for Wimbledon." The elder commanded to which the AI responded. "Wimbledon setting activated."

Instantly the room transformed in the environment of Wimbledon. From what it seems, the room was able to create the same atmosphere as if playing outdoors. "Ponta is amazing right Sakuno-chan?" Ryoga whimsically announced. "Now stay back and enjoy some tennis sweetie."

As the game commenced the medicine student realized a number of things. Despite not playing professionally, Ryoma has maintained flexibility. In terms of stamina he and Ryoga are at par. The only problem is the shoulder strain. Given the prince's skill he can finish easy opponents at the required playing time. But this condition might not be able to carry him into semifinals. However, if the prodigy has a skilled partner to lessen the burden of the play, he might win in doubles.

In a flash one hour passed. The two were barely panting. "This is so boring Chibisuke." The older accused. "Hurry up and get well." Spinning his racket fashionably the guest continued. "I kinda miss your hard hits. Your returns does not hurt like it used too." The visitor explained. "However, gotta hand it to lovely Sakuno-chan." Gazing at the girl and releasing a wink. "Because of you, Ryoma's impact force is more noticeable compared to before."

Blushing the girl with a sweet smile replied. "Thank you." As soon as her eyes interlocked with Ryoga, a tennis ball came in full speed in between breaking the gaze. The elder brother was in glee. No one has ever worked up his sibling like this before. Oh it's so good to tease the brat. "Like I said, mutual understandings are synonymous to friendships. It's a fair game for all." The older directed his stare to the younger male. "If you work hard enough. Tables can turn."

"Don't talk like it's a game to be won." The amber orbed male accused. "People are more complicated than that." The visitor laughed out loud. "Wow when did you had interest in people?" It was hilarious. The prince has always been only particular with matters pertaining to himself. Has the injury made him do some self-reflection? "It's not funny Nii-san."

"Fine, I'll stop." The later stated and scratched the back of his head. "Seriously though Sakuno-chan what can you say?" The woman was caught by surprise of the inquiry. "In your opinion, can Ryoma go back to competitive tennis?"

There was a pregnant pause. If she shares her honest opinion, Ryoma might start signing up to the next amateur match. Can the prodigy really flex those muscles now? Recalling how he played in middle school, amateur tournaments should not be belittled. "Why are you hesitating with your answer Ryuzaki?" The prince spat out. Did he appear so sloppy? Is he inferior to Chardad that the girl cannot bring herself to say it?

Noticing the anguish in the patient's features, the therapist pushed herself to speak. "You played well Ryoma-kun." The female breathed in to calm down, the next objective comments must be stated effectively. "Based on your form, you can compete with opponents in small scale events. However, you might not make it to the semifinals."

The prodigy crossed his arms. "Che, I don't need the prize money." He will not waste time if the chances of winning is low. The prince of tennis has a reputation to keep. A brand which needs to be maintained.

"I know Ryoma-kun's expertise is singles." The female fidgeted and became hesitant to continue the spiel. "You seem to have an idea sweetie, go on share it." The guest egged to continue on. "Demo.. its really a silly idea." The medical student retorted. "Don't be too modest little miss. Tell us what you think."

The elder was being pushy. But the lady understood the enthusiasm. Ryoma needs to be back in the playing field. Because truth be told, it was his source of happiness. Losing it abruptly was probably like death. "I think Ryoma-kun cannot play singles yet." The woman froze up again and took a deep inhale to compose herself. "However, I think after the therapy, playing doubles there is a chance of making it to the finals."

After hearing the opinion, Ryoga sneered while Ryoma snorted. With a huge grin the elder made eye contact with the sibling. "What do you say Chibisuke, let's pair up for doubles?" Doubles, never in the younger prodigy's career vision did he consider this. Plus with his elder sibling? Will he even last being loyal at his side the whole tournament? The older Echizen is known for switching teams at the middle of the games.

"Chibisuke, as your brother I promise not to abandon you when we play pairs." The visitor consoled with a serious glint in his eye. "I'll think it over. Therapy still has eight weeks to go." Using the racket the elder tapped the back of his head. "You are doubting me obviously."

"After the capriciousness you showed since U17, how can you not expect that?" The younger accused. "Brother dear, we both switched teams remember?" The other teased. "I returned to my team, while you even faced off with your former one." The elder shrugged. Sentimentality was something the former tennis star was supposedly not to have. "Do you dislike teaming up with me so much? Or you are more into defeating me rather than cooperating?"

"If we check history correctly, I went to the U17 camp because you were there." Ryoga decided to explain what actually happened. "When you got expelled, I left camp. Knowing you wanted to play. Took the initiative and got us in the US team. Then for some reason despite being kicked out, Japan still drafted you. Half way the event you went back to team Japan. Since you are no longer in the American group, I followed my whim to play for Spain."

"Why did you drop the US for Japan anyway? Those guys were very accommodating of you." The guest continued expound. As far as the visitor is concerned, he and Ryoma are the same. They both wanted to play tennis in their own preferred team. The motivations maybe different, but in the end the brothers picked where they feel at ease. "Answer me Chibisuke, why did you go back to team Japan?" The elder suggestively gazed at the girl. His gut says that the female has something to do with it.

The golden orb man recalled the moments. After being told to pack his things, he roamed the city to get a breather. By coincidence the girl saw him. Out of the blue he asked her to hang-out. The whole day they did activities to get his mind of the rejection. As the day came to an end, the lady presented him a good luck fortune from the temple. Clumsily the woman revealed also the numerous attempts to get that single positive fortune. Then she sincerely wished him well and expressed her confidence in him.

All he could say that day was thank you. That time the prince could not bring himself to say his participation for U17 is cancelled. After spending the day with her, Ryoga offered they play for America. He took the opportunity. During the games, the pigtailed girl was in attendance whenever the prince played. He scolded her that the Japanese team is in another court. The female declared regardless of which flag he represents, she will cheer for him.

That time he knew the woman was sincere. But will she choose him over her mother nation if a face off is inevitable? Her country would have more value than him right? The realization of this girl turning away from him was somewhat disturbing. It was as if his heart was not in the right place. This was noticed by the American teammates. They advised him to follow what will make him happy. The prodigy took the chance to find peace of mind in his former. From there, he did not have to worry if the female will put a blind eye on him.

Damn Ryoga for making him recall that. He had tried to bury that memory deep within his psyche after turning away. The tennis star did not want to feel guilty. She was meant to move on like right now. Part of him then did thought it is okay. He could handle the consequences of his actions. But was that one of the reasons, despite success he never felt happy?

"Oi, I am waiting for your answer twerp." The boisterous tone of the sibling resounded in his ears. "It was a matter of preference and convenience." answered the prince. It came stated out as cold and unfeeling.

Preference and convenience? That was all team Japan was to him? What about Seigaku? Sakuno's heart ached. After all this time, she believed that maybe the prodigy considered them as friends. How audacious of her to assume. They are not valued more than just mere acquaintance. However isn't obvious? He did leave and never came back.

Golden eyes observed the lass, who seemed to have been drenched by ice cold water. Did what he said hurt her? Did the girl actually think that he does not value his former team? He did not mean to let it sound that way. The prince tried to regain composure and searched to find the words to say. But when it comes to personal life, time was not at his side. Sakuno's phone began to ring. The helicopter is already at the landing dock. Hurriedly excusing herself saying the pilot must waiting for long, the auburn lady left.

Ryoma lost his chance to explain as he stared at her fading figure. The prince clenched his fist in frustration. Why? Of all the people in the world why her? Of all the time in this blasted life time, why now?

Ryoga approached the racket storage and sighed. "Little brother why are you a socially inept idiot?" The elder's voice was very accusing. "It is quite obvious then and now the girl feels the same for you." Closing the stowing the guest continued. "So what if she is in a mutual relationship? Did it ever occur to you that she could not commit because of you?"

"I met the guy she is with. They are living together." The younger muttered. "Poor him, he probably feels every day that she's physical there but mentally somewhere else." The visitor approached his sibling. Patting the lad's shoulders he cannot help but smile. The pipsqueak before is now an inch or two taller than him. "Think about my offer Ryoma. We'll make a good team I promise."

As the guest is about to leave, Ryoma found his voice. "Aniki, can you stay for the night?" The senior smiled knowingly. A nerve finally struck in his stubborn younger brother. "Sure. Let's order pizza and plan our events schedule." The owner of the property nodded. "And call Sakuno-chan after an hour. Explain well twerp."

"Yeah." The lad spoke in almost a whisper. How can he explain himself? The prince also felt he needs to tell Sato. That guy deserves courtesy too. "Honestly Chibisuke, come to think of it, get yourself together before confessing. She is a medical student, hopefully Sakuno-chan won't be marrying at four years max. It's a lot of allowance to get back into tennis and grow some personality."

The unsolicited counsel placed the prince in deep thought. He never had a deep relationship with the girl before. And since there is nothing to anchor their feelings, it would be easy to reject. But if he works his way slowly, there could be chance the doors will open again. Can he do it? He has no idea in impressing women. Actually never bothered to try. However this time, it could be worth a long shot.

Pizza arrived in less than hour. When Ryoma lifted his phone, nervousness is quite evident on his nonchalant face. Ryoga sensing the guy needs some privacy, excused himself. "Thirty minutes. Make it count Chibisuke." As the door closed, the prince took a deep breath dialed the lady's number. What if she was upset and would not answer?

Sakuno tried her best not cry inside the chopper. Thank goodness the ride was only thirty minutes and Sato is some group project meet up. As soon the apartment was door closed, the tears flowed like a waterfall. Why was she hurt with what the client said? She is with Sato now. How can the prodigy still affect her?

Fate as if mocking the lass more allowed the girl's cellphone to ring. Flashed on the display is Ryoma Echizen's name. Should she answer? He would notice her crying. But what if the prince is calling because he knew she is crying? Staring the gadget the woman debated picking it up. Come to think of it, the prodigy never calls. So this it is probably a big move of swallowing ego.

In defeat Sakuno clicked the answer button. Why can't she reject him for once? "Hello?" The girl tried to hide the sniffling sound coming out of her. "Ryuzaki, I.. I did not mean it in a bad way." The man from the other line explained. "Mean what?" The woman tiredly inquired. "Preference and convenience. I prefer team japan because it is where my heart and mind is at ease. That is why it is comfortable for me to be with them. With all of you."

"But you still left. It was not enough for you was it?" The lass commented. Maybe he cared but not in a deep level. They were not sufficient for him. "I had to leave to achieve my dreams." The man answered. "I took every one for granted going through this journey. That is my fault." Hearing the confession the girl sobbed again. "I am sorry for being a selfish idiot." The prodigy admitted in defeat.

"I am not the only person hurt Ryoma-kun." The lass replied while weeping. "All the senpais and our schoolmates, they were upset too. But even if we all felt that way, it did not stop us from supporting you." The girl took a deep breath. "We are proud of your achievements. Even if we were never a part of it."

"You're wrong. Everything is because of what all of you contributed to me." The prince continued to speak. "I guess once our therapy sessions is over, my long overdue visit to Japan must commence."

Going back to Japan to see everyone. "I believe you should Ryoma-kun." That is a nice idea. "Ryuzaki, will you come with me?" The lad asked out of the blue. "Why do you need company?" The lass nervously retorted. "A lot has probably changed, I need a tour guide." The man reasoned. In truth he just wanted an excuse to be with her in their homeland. "Sato needs to come along too." The female stated. "Looks like you cannot survive a day without him huh?" the male questioned with a bitter voice.

"He is part of my life." The statement felt like a stab to the chest. It cannot be helped, no pain, no gain. "I see, yes of course with Sato it is." For now the prodigy will yield. However he will do what is needed to increase leverage. It is not over till it's over.

The prince swayed his head. For some reason, he began to empathize with Chardad. "I'll see you next week." The woman spoke breaking their long pause. "If you have nothing else to say, let's call it a day." The lass suggested. Gripping his hold on the phone, Ryoma pushed some difficult words out of his mouth. "Next week, please watch me and Ryoga play again."

The request was strange. Did it mean the brothers are really considering playing doubles? "Play with Ryoga?" The female repeated. "Yes, we considered your suggestion." The girl gasped, the patient seems to be really itching to play. "Okay, it can be arranged." The confirmation felt victory after the lady agreed. He can have an extra hour or two with her. Hopefully it can build their familiarity again to increase his chances. Unlike Chardad, Sakuno sees him as an important person. So maybe it can work out. He felt a smile creeping his lips. When did such trivial things make him giddy?

"Ryoma-kun? Is there something wrong?" The girl retorted after the lad did not reply. "No, I am fine. Really fine." Relief can be traced from his voice. "See you next week then?" The girl gently spoke. "Yes" The man said too eagerly. But who cares the woman should know he appreciates it. "Never felt better in a long while."

Sakuno's heart skipped upon hearing the tone of the prince's voice. He sounded extremely happy. Maybe the thought of getting back with his brother made his heart leap. Given that, she is glad to be of help. She did promise to get him back into shape. It's a wonderful thing it can be fulfilled. This time she is no longer the burdensome lost girl whose hair is too long. The memory made her stifle some tears again. Sensing the occurrence Ryoma quickly inquired. "What's wrong was it something I said?"

Hiccupping the woman replied. "No just relieved. Finally I am of use to you." The confession somewhat pierced the prodigy's heart. After all this time, that is what she saw herself. A useless person to him? It's all his mistake for making her feel that way. "That's not true. Every time you cheer for me, it always brings positive energy." The male blurted out. "During the years playing alone.." The male pause should he continue? Grunting he forced himself to embrace is sensitive side. "I would recall how you devotedly supported me." The declaration surprised both parties. "Don't say that just to make me feel better Ryoma-kun."

He was not doing that. It was the fact, something he kept for a long time. Whenever a match is due, eyeing the huge crowd he would imagine the girl there. Part of him yearned for her presence. He never had the guts to ask for support. If in the past he asked, would she have said yes? Will things be different and better now? Damn he really is an idiot. "It's the truth, sorry I only told you now. It's not going to change anything right?"

The therapist heart swelled. Did he really think about her too? All through these years? Swaying her head, she told herself not to get carried away. She is with Sato. Thinking of another is complete betrayal. However, part of her was so thankful of the discovery. "Of course nothing will change. We are friends aren't we?" She needs to stand firm for Sato who has always been with her.

Friends the prince will be satisfied with that for now. However from here on, his resolved is solidified. It's about time to finally act upon the one thing he secretly wanted all along. The plan is clear, recover and get back in the game. Both tennis and in love. It's so cheesy, but is his reality.

Author's note:

I kind of had a hard time writing this one. I wanted to keep Ryoma in character but have some development kick in. Plus Ryoga's personality is still a mystery. Hopefully, I did the two some justice. In the upcoming chapters, anticipate our Prince trying harder while trying to keep a cool façade. Thanks everyone for supporting the fic. If you have time, do write in your opinions and anticipations. Until the next update. ^^v