Hi guys, we are finally getting some development in this chapter. Though it is not too intense, but I hope everyone gets to enjoy it.
Thanks for all the support and until the next update.
"Chapter 14: So What Now?"
Sakuno with tired eyes stared at her reflection in the mirror. It has been a month since Sato decided to part ways. During the initial week, she did her best to act normal so no one would notice. Part of her was hopeful that they can work it out. He has been a constant to her and is equivalent to a security blanket. It was so hard to let him go but part of her could not bring herself to beg him to come back. If she did, he would have his terms and the demands of Sato were things she cannot give up to. Once again she sighed, all this time the auburn girl thought her feelings for Ryoma Echizen had faded away. But like the waves crashing strongly to the shore, she was once again swept away. When did it happen? She has no idea. However, the reality of it is here. And now it cost her an important person, was it worth all the trouble?
Eventually during Eiji and Oishi's farewell party had the tennis players realized Sato already left. Sensing that it was an awkward topic, none of the men dared to ask details. They just offered him words of comfort that maybe some time off is good. Oishi commented on how this reflection period will be critical for both of them. In this phase, they will realize if they can live apart. Relationships will thrive stronger or conclude every obstacle.
Sakuno in her heart knew that the relationship with the brown-haired medical student has concluded. As much as she wants to be friends with him, he probably needs more time. The girl rubbed her temples again to soothe the stinging pain of overthinking. In the first two weeks, she had been crying every night and had to cancel a therapy session with Ryoma. The prodigy did not pry when she simply stated the reason for the absence is fatigue. She successfully avoided him for 3 weeks until the tennis star personally invited her for their senpai's farewell party. He noticed her tired eyes then and simply asked what was wrong.
The only word that came out of her mouth was "Sato". He did not ask further questions but simply stated. "I thought you were happy with him." The statement stirred up her emotions more. Yes, she was happy with Sato but it was in a level of comfort. It was not in the context of burning passion. Of course, she could not voice it out. So she remained silent and left the man before she interpret the whole situation. She was too emotionally drained to delve further and at times like this silence will be the best option. Realizing she will not speak any further, he just imposed that she comes to the farewell party. Ryoma even made an uncharacteristic remark that it will be good a way to get things off her mind.
After the gathering, she indeed felt better. The prince and his elder brother never made anything awkward once they all went back to business. Today, she will be accompanying them to some practice match since the two have signed up for the Australian Open. Unfortunately, she cannot accompany them to the other side of the world. From what she heard, Ryoma's team managed to hind a top therapist to accompany them. The golden-eyed man however insisted that she treat him once he gets back. A request that she readily agreed.
The notification alarm on her phone began to ring on her ears. Glancing at the device, there is a message that they need to leave now. Sighing Sakuno looked at herself one more time. She did not want to look too bitter and cause people to worry. So taking a deep breath once more she forced herself to smile. Today is not about her, today is about Ryoma and Ryoga working their way towards Tennis Doubles' success.
He was aware that the separation from Sato affected her. But he tried to act oblivious about it because she probably did not want pity. And he would not in any universe tell her to make up with the male medical student. However, it is not yet the right time to pounce. She is emotionally unstable and he is not an opportunist like that.
Just as much as the girl was lost Ryoma is on the same both. Once the dust has settled how can clear things up with her. He never confessed to anyone his entire life. And after what happened with Sato, he doubts that she will be confessing to her. He is not stupid, the tennis star knows he is the reason why they have broken up. It is something he is not proud of, but a man who feels strongly for the girl, the golden-eyed man cannot help but feel relieved that this time has come.
How will he make her comfortable so he can say what he feels? Ryoma began to wonder how his old man confessed to his mother. Sure his father was flirty compared to him. But saying important things like these require a lot of sincerity. How did he do it? Despite his curiosity, he would not be caught dead asking. He will never hear the end of it. The prodigy decided to take this matter into his own hands.
He glanced at his watch, it is about time they proceed to their practice venue. Grabbing his tennis bag, the prodigy proceeded to exit the apartment. Ryoga will be the one driving since the venue is near. The elder is already parked in front of the building and the auburn girl will be with them. For some reason this arrangement made him feel nervous.
At the back of the vehicle, Ryoma and Sakuno sat in silence, overthinking what they should say to the other. The drive is intermediately long thirty minutes to be exact. Ryoma had a feeling that if he doesn't get rid of the tense atmosphere Ryoga will make sure to rub it on his face. Not wanting to get his pride more tainted than it already is, he blurted out a random statement. "The drive would for thirty minutes, keep yourself comfortable." The girl nervously nodded. "I am the one playing Ryuzaki. What's with the jitters?"
The girl took a deep breath, if she does not answer well he might get the wrong idea. "There has been a lot in my mind." The auburn lady confessed and looked out the window. She can't look at him straight in the face yet. Because of their proximity, she might not help but blush.
"Studies are tough but you can overcome it." The lad tried to utter some encouragement. "You have come this far. So hold on to it until the end."
Sakuno's heart swelled at the kind words from Ryoma's lips. It caused her to look in his direction with a smile on her face. "Thank you Ryoma-kun. I will do my best." Seeing the female medical student feeling better, the prodigy smirked. It's good he did something right.
"After this practice session a friend will be picking me up," Ryoga stated out of the blue. "So that means Chibisuke, you will be driving Sakuno back home." The elder smirk and raised an eyebrow while the younger looked at the car's mirror. It seems the older brother is telling him to grab this chance of being alone. Ryoma contemplated, he could invite her to have dinner. Both of them would be hungry after the practice session is done.
"Do you want to grab a meal before going home later Ryuzaki?" The prodigy asked using his usual tone. He can't crack right now but he still needs to make the moves. The girl agreed to state she had no further plans for the day. The approval made the tennis very happy and satisfied. He could not wait for the practice match to be over.
The practice match took four hours to finish. It was against the best American Doubles pair. The match ended in a draw and since it was getting late both parties decided to leave it as a tie. There is no need to go all out and possibly get an injury on an unofficial match. Ryoma and Ryoga went to the ice baths while Sakuno stayed by the tennis court to wait.
Later she will be having a meal with Ryoma. This is the first time they will be spending time together outside of business. The girl began to feel uneasy, what are they going to talk about. Will he pry about Sato? What is she going to say about it? Sakuno swayed her head, she must not get too worked up. All she has to do is act normally. This chance to have quality time with Ryoma does not come often. So she must make the best out of it.
After thirty minutes the brothers emerged and Ryoga said his goodbyes and handed Ryoma the key. Lazily the prodigy approached the auburn girl and signaled her it's time to leave. The walk to the car parking lot is a bit awkward. It was the prince who broke the silence. "What would you like to eat?" The girl muttered that they can go with whatever he preferred. Ryoma nodded and stated they will have Italian food at a restaurant of an acquaintance. The place will be able to provide them with some privacy.
The drive to the place was short but the location was surprising. The area looked secluded and as the duo entered the vicinity, Sakuno heard that this place only strictly follows reservations. Since the owner is fond of Ryoma they let this moment slide. The two of them were ushered to a private dining area. It was well lit, decorated with a huge crystal chandelier. Classical strings were playing in the background. The sound made the girl's chest constrict. Noticing her discomfort Ryoma told the assigned waiter to turn off the music.
The prodigy did the ordering and as the waiter left, the two were left to stare at each other. Ryoma mentally kicked himself to say something, he needs to give her an idea of what he felt right now. "What did you think of the match?" The question was his attempt to let her open up.
"The pair you went up against has great synchronization. Their stamina is great considering they are pros." The girl commented and slightly paused to think of other details she recalled. "Their defense is good, but since you and Ryoga-nii are good single players the force of your hits is stronger. It kind of takes a toll on their stamina."
"How should Aniki and I improve on our game?" Ryoma asked. "We don't have the asset of playing together for a long time."
"Even if you two bicker a lot. Ryoga-nii si close to your heart Ryoma-kun. That is why I think your synergy will match immediately." Sakuno answered honestly. "I think for starters, you and Ryogan-ii should make clear partitions on the court. Make it clear which is his and what is yours. So you will avoid crashing into one another when going after the ball." Ryoma nodded the suggestion was very valid. "Try mix and matching those positions Ryoma-kun, because sharp opponents will catch on if there is low variety."
The prodigy smirked, the inputs from the girl are interesting. "I will take note of it and discuss it with him." He glanced at his watch. "The food here is made to order so it will take at least twenty minutes to arrive." The male pointed at the bread and vinaigrette in front of them. "This is the appetizer, so if you are a bit hungry go ahead and have some." The prodigy offered. "Just dip the bread on the vinaigrette while it's still warm."
Sakuno took a piece since she was a bit hungry and stated it was good. "Ryuzaki, are you still up to it?" The girl was surprised by the sudden question.
"What should I be up with Ryoma-kun?" The lass retorted back.
"About being my therapist." The tennis star answered. "I am planning to win doubles with Aniki. Then he has a female friend, the person he ditched us for who is also good at tennis. They are agreeing with me and her to play mixed doubles after my run with Ryoga-nii." Sakuno was surprised that Ryoma had already planned ahead of his comeback and his road back to the pro-circuit.
"You seem to be confident with winning doubles with Ryoga-nii on the first try," Sakuno stated as an observation. "I honestly think the two of you will do great, but.." The use of the word "but" caused the prince to look at her intensely. "I know you can win a tournament but a grand slam on one go? You will be forcing much stress on your body." The medical student warned. "We have worked a lot to get this progress. So please think about it."
"You think I won't be able to endure it?" The golden-eyed man inquired. There was no sound of irritation in his voice. However, he did not sound please either.
"I am just worried you will overwork yourself." The lady retorted. "I just want you to play as long as you can." The girl added and looked away. "You are very happy when playing." Her nervous voice mutter. "I like it when you are happy."
The sincerity made Ryoma smirk. He felt relieved that Sakuno cares about his well-being. Besides his health, she also considers his happiness. That means, she cares deeply right? The prodigy built his resolve and decided to take things further. "I am confident because you are with me." He stated it with a lot of conviction, intensely looking at the woman across him. "As long as you stay by my side, everything will be okay."
The woman looked up to stare at the Prince. Did she hear him right? He will be okay as long as she stays by his side? What does he mean by that? "You speak like I am the reason you will succeed." Sakuno managed to mutter shyly while keeping eye contact. "I am glad if that is the case." The woman confessed while her cheeks were flushed with a hint of pink.
"So, you think I won't be able to endure it?" The prodigy asked again with eager eyes. "All the consequences that come by being by my side?" Ryoma does not know if this can count as a confession. But if she will be willing to put up with him, they will most likely get somewhere.
Sakuno could see the anticipation coming from the prince. It is the first time she saw him in a state that looks needy. Her mind began to whisper thoughts that the man in front of her is baring his soul. It is as if he is offering her a higher level of relationship. She momentarily closed her eyes and breathed in deeply. She must not get ahead of herself. All he said was he wanted to work together for a long time. Of course, she does not mind. After calming herself she looked at herself once more and smiled. "Even though at first you did not want me here. I don't mind staying and tagging alone as long as you will have me." Her sweet and gentle voice resonated in the room.
After finishing the state Ryoma looked awestruck. She accepted his offer. Does it mean he has the right to have dibs on her? Or is she speaking in the context of their business relationship or friendship for that matter? The prince clutched his hands tightly. While the momentum is good he must continue to keep things rolling. "Sakuno.." The way he said her name felt like she was splashed with a bucket of water. "I know it is too soon, but I want you to know.." The prince struggled to keep his words together. "I am interested in doing more than business or friendship with you.." Ryoma blushed what he said was not the most romantic thing to say. But how is he going to say it anyway without sounding so cheesy?
Sakuno gasped at what the man just revealed. If he said this before leaving for America, she would have accepted it instantly. But now, she has a lot of priorities and it is too soon she needs to come clean with Sato. "Ryoma-kun, I am dealing with my separation from Sato." The lady tiredly stated. "And I have a medical school, this is not a good time for that." She looked at him apologetically. But she told herself if things between him and her is to happen, the auburn girl wants to be whole and ready to give herself. If there was something she learned from her time with Sato, relationships are not supposed to be fully founded on convenience. It is also a balance between compromises.
"I am not rushing you." The prodigy rebutted with weariness in his voice. "I just wanted you to know. If we will be working closely." The prince smirked and stared at the girl with fondness reflecting in his eyes. "I don't mind waiting." He was determined to wait until she was ready. All that he needs right now is for them to keep a connection and things could be developed from there.
"Okay." The auburn lady answered and embarrassedly spoke. "Thank you for understanding."
Ryoma swayed his head and for the first time in her life, Sakuno saw him smile. Teeth bared, lips fully twitched, and eyes squinting. "No, thank you for giving me a chance. I will use it well."
Sakuno's heart fluttered. Ryoma seems to be determined to work things out. In that case, the woman made an internal resolve to do her best just the same. She needs to be the woman worthy to stay by his side. The new journey begins now.