a/n: currently check-in myself in a small hotel; because we will be having a family affair ; they asked me why did I even bring my laptop with me, I said I got grades to encode… lol! Lil did they know, I simply have a fic to update! ^_^ here's chap7! Seriously wanting to end this, hahah… :D I just realized, isn't it weird that Sendoh seems to be on a first-name basis with Fukuda? He calls him, 'Kicchou' though. Haha! Well, basically I just want to portray Sendoh as someone fun and nice to be with- a people's person. Plus, it's kinda easier to type 'kicchou' than 'fukuda' though. -_-
Addicted to SD: Uyy! Merry Christmas too! Yup, I know what you mean- actually naguluhan din ako sa sarili kong gawa, LOL! ^0^ Sorry about that, sa kagustuhan ko manalo ang Shohoku- 6pts kagad! Lol! Maybe I should edit on that part, pero later na cguro! The game details is a hard one! BTW, Im also a big fan of Rukawa- *waves ruru banner* but I also loved Sendoh :D Gusto kong kiligin kaya ginagawa kong charming c Sendoh, lol! *Addicted to SD sweatdrops* Thank you so much for always reviewing and taking time to read despite the busy season! ^_^ Here's the next chap, for you!
To everyone else: Guest711, Maria Mae, etc… thank you! Merry Christmas! To Guest #1? Lol, thank you- you're right, I should drop the 'bug-eyed' expression! Hahah! #senruislovealright
Standard disclaimers apply/ SenRu/ Typos/Wrong Grammars/Non-Pro Writer/Long Plotless/OOCness
CHAPTER 7
But I don't care what they say, I'm in love with you
They try to pull me away, but they don't know the truth
My heart's crippled by the vein that I keep on closing
You cut me open and I…
Second quarter. The score was now 35-30 still in favour of Ryonan. It was Kainan's first full time-out. Somehow, to be able to rise back up from a 15-point deficit is quite a feat in less than 6 minutes in the first quarter. All thanks to Maki, and most specifically to Jin Soichiro- who's been like a raging beast when behind the three-point range. He's basically the one who contributed the most; Maki has somehow found a way to 'use' his men wisely. Sendoh too, was trying hard his best to keep the lead but somehow, Kainan manage to simmer him down. His passes were still good but Kiyota was now somehow able to read into him. Sendoh was held back in surprise as one of his pass was anticipated by Kiyota and was able to intercept it. The Ryonan Ace momentarily shook his head and decided to just run after Kiyota who was laughing insanely while dribbling the ball in a triumphant grin. 'Oh boy…' Sendoh could only inwardly mutter. There was also a scene wherein a screen was made with Sendoh thinking that it was Maki whom he will be guarding on to find out that it was a lousy looking player that goes with the name Yoshinori Miyawasu. Sendoh was puzzled for a moment- the said small and petite player doesn't looked like a player at all. He was taken aback though when Uozumi whispered into him that it was simply a distraction. Sendoh then sweatdropped. Sakuragi saw that scene and was laughing so hard because it looked insane for a while. He was shouting from the bench that Sendoh should have just elbowed the bespectacled guy in the nose. This earned him a lump from Akagi of course- berating him about un-sportsman-like and the whatnots. Overall, the second quarter was a major comeback from Kainan and Maki can be seen looking more menacing than ever. He was able to dodge everyone on Ryonan who defended him- although Sendoh gave him a hard time- still, there was a moment that he was able to escape the much taller boy. Akira was basically running around in circles- assisting, passing, shooting, and basically making the plays point by point- it was hectic to watch. Fujima admits he was being happy that Kainan was able to bounce back but he just couldn't decipher the fact that Sendoh seems to be handling all alone the play. Uozumi is a good center, doing his job well against Takasago of Kainan, Koshino seems to be having trouble with the noisy Kiyota blabbering about his greatness. Sakuragi was even joining at one side as he berates Koshino time and again to strangle the hair of the said wild monkey. If there is one guy whose behind Sendoh- its Fukuda, he was the next to assist his spiky-haired teammate- making small plays, passes, and giving way so that Sendoh will be able to execute properly- still, it was not enough; Maki proved to everyone why his team earned the moniker, 'Kanagawa Kings.'
Time out.
"Okay, we're being caught up with now… we need to spread out- their defence has been tight all over and we can't find the right guy under the basket…" Uozumi spoke in between his heavy breaths. Uekusa, Koshino, Fukuda, nodded. Ikegami seemed to have a play as he momentarily borrowed the white board and drew lines as to what would be their next move against Kainan.
"Okay, I need you guys to see this play…-?!"
"What's that sound and whose been bleeding in love?!" Uozumi boomed. Everyone sweatdropped. 'Uozumi taichou…' They were trying to be serious when there came a moment of silence and everyone seemed to have heard a certain song that has been playing for quite some time now…
Keep bleeding, keep, keep bleeding love
You cut me open…
"Uh, its Leona and that's mine?" Sendoh sheepishly grinned. "Well, make her stop now!" Uozumi turned into the great big ape he is and hollered in annoyance. Sendoh sweatdropped and scampered in hurried steps. He rummaged into his duffel bag, shook his head and cut off the sound. The team sighed in resentment. Their Ace can truly be… charmingly annoying sometimes. Sendoh cannot believed the fact that his brother has been calling him. He took note to himself that he's going to strangle his older sibling when he gets back.
"Oi, don't you know how to answer calls?!" Akito shouted at the other line. Akira rolled his eyes in sheer surprised. He can't believe that this is happening alright. 'Really, aniki…' He chuckled softly and decided to just talk a bit and end the call as soon as possible. "I'm in a game, dork." The player answered as a matter of fact-ly but Akito kept going on. "Bah, constructing lies now, are ya?!"
"Silly, I'm really in a game- we're playing, you ass." Akira rolled his eyes and tried to press further.
"Oi, when are you coming back, we need to finish the Christmas shopping Akira, and you have to be back early!" Akito berated.
"Oi Sendoh, come over here now, this will be vital in the play-?!" Uozumi hollered. Ikegami and the others sweatdropped. Hikoichi has been sniffing, afraid that his team will be defeated. "Uwwah, Senpai, hurry & finish your call now, please~!"
"I can't believe this! Sendoh you jerk!" Koshino, stomp forwards to where the spiky haired was- the said person was sitting on the far edge of the bench and seems to be nodding once awhile while grinning and softly chuckling- overall he seems amused to be talking on the phone while there is a game going on. Fukuda could only watch in awe on how his Captain seems to be calm at times like this. Maybe because, Fukuda knows that even though Sendoh's actions speaks of being a bit overly carefree sometimes, he actually delivers most of the time. Just like what he said in his mini speech—he is there, when the team needs him. 'Sendoh-taichou, you really are a great talent who finds happiness in execution.' Then Fukuda sweatdropped- he honestly thought that he sounded matured for a while back there. 'Yare yare, I just have to focus on how to help him on the play…' And he inwardly sighed.
"…and so, as I was saying, we still have to buy that vase for our Aunt in Kyoto and-?!" Akito continued. The younger Sendoh has been chuckling softly on the other line- he can't seem to butt in – his eyes wandered to where his teammates are and he sweatdropped as stares of daggers jolted right back at him. 'Yikes, I'm dead.' He saw Koshino approaching him with a growl.
"Is that your girlfriend?!" Koshino loudly asks with a scowl on his face. Sendoh shook his head in response, eyes widening in response. He mouthed 'Bro-Ther' though. Koshino was tapping his foot impatiently, arms crossed- eyes glaring.
"Akito, I really have to go now! I'm in a game, man! Haha!" Sendoh laughed in amusement.
"I don't care- are you winning though?!" Akito continued to keep the conversation going but he too, was grinning like a madman on the other line.
"I was a while back- til you called, bastard… now they're catching up! I need to hang up now!" Sendoh laughed- his cobalt blue eyes twinkling in amusement- his handsome features more prominent than ever. From afar, Kainan can be seen with their poker faces on- amazed on what they're witnessing.
"Yare yare, ok I'll hang up now- and I hope you lose though, Ace. Hahahah!" Akito goaded on the other line. Akira rolled his eyes and shot back as well, 'what the hell is wrong with my brother anyway?!' "You bloody wish, old man-and didn't I said to stop inhaling weed?" Akira grinned and suddenly the line was finally put on an end. By the time the call ended; Akira looked back to see the exasperated look on his teammates faces. He smiled apologetically before standing up- his expressions suddenly changing- eyes now clouded with more determination. Then he grinned, "Sorry about that- it's my stupid brother though. Are we ready to kick Kainan's ass now?" Everyone chuckled and shook their heads.
"And how do you intend to do that?" Uozumi challenged his younger teammate, a bit annoyed that Sendoh seems to be slacking off for a while back there. The team momentarily halt to a stop. Sendoh seems to be in deep thought then he smiled—
"We'll do it sir… I got game." And he smiled his confident smile sending in once again positive vibrations to his teammates.
Third quarter. It was intense. Like what Fukuda assumed, Sendoh did deliver a few blows. He was able to extend their lead by ten points to the horror of Kainan's bench and surprise of Shoyo's. Shohoku frantically enjoyed this quarter as shots were made by each side of the team. When Sendoh delivers, Maki answered. They cut off the lead to six points and the pressure was once again back at Ryonan. The next timeouts were done in a much serious atmosphere, no phone calls or hoots. Sendoh seems to be more focused now. He was basically trying all the plays he could muster and was mixing his tactics. He kind of noticed that his teammates where a bit tired already. He smiled tiringly as well but reminded them of their passions. Uozumi nodded and also helped contribute into the game.
Akagi sighed- eyes still focused on the scoreboard. 56-50. Ryonan refuses to give up. He could only watch in awe as he himself, came to witness how truly one certain player carry on his shoulder the weight of great expectations. His gaze was boring behind number seven's back, the latter oblivious to the stare. 'I wonder how he seems unfazed…or does he even feel tired of it all?' He sighed deeply, causing for Miyagi to look at him. "Something wrong, Captain?" Akagi shook his head, his gaze fixated to where Ryonan team was. "I was just wondering about something I've read…" Akagi seem to pause for a while- then decided to continue. "Expect more from yourself than from others, because expectations from others will only hurt you." He furrowed his brows for a sec as if in deep thought, before giving a deep sigh. Miyagi kept his silence- the Captain word's puzzled him. He does not know what to say more so, react. The small point guard of Shohoku tried to look at the bench of Ryonan- and saw them hurdled. 'Could it be that Captain might be talking about Sendoh?' Miyagi thought for a minute. It seems though, he noticed the big duty the spiky-haired has on his own shoulders. Miyagi paused for a while, suddenly trying to digest the words… his eyes held against a certain guy who has the same number as he- who's in the same position as he, who's very much the one making plays as he…'Okay, we're not of the same height though. Ugh.' Miyagi sighed. 'Sendoh…' Miyagi seems to be in deep thought, '…Contrary to all of us, you always smile, you're friendly, and modest. You never lose your temper so easily, although you know yourself that you're a marvellous player. You show respect to strong players, but you definitely won't just give away any game. Your concentration is optimal… especially when playing against tough rivals such as Maki and even Rukawa- they bring out the best in you too, I bet. You're basically an all-around player and… I bet you're feeling the pressure too.' Miyagi sighed inwardly- his thoughts somewhat tiring him a bit. Analysing people will never be his forte. 'Still… you smile. You smile as if, you truly enjoy doing all of this… smile as if you were a part of it- have always been a part of it…'
"Captain…" Akagi momentarily took the time to look at his shorter teammate. He saw Miyagi with a smile and a look of something akin to understanding. He could only wonder what his point guard is about to say though.
"I think it's not about expecting from others… it's more of, appreciating." Miyagi smiled. "I think he thinks of it just like that. For everything you have missed, you have gained something else; and for everything you gain, you lose something else. For him basketball is like your outlook in life, you can either regret or rejoice… and he always chooses the latter." Miyagi snorted. Truth is he doesn't know if he, himself understood his own train of thoughts. He looked up and was met by the somewhat stunned gaze of his Captain. Akagi simply sighed- and smiled knowingly. He nodded for a while, "…you may be right, Captain." Miyagi could only looked in surprise- he was about to blurt something out loud, but he just pursed his lips, smiled a little, and shook his head. 'Oh brother, what did I get myself into?'
Rukawa's thoughts was blank. He has been following every quarter religiously. The right phrase would have been, following one certain player religiously, as this so-called player ran about the court, making smooth passes, assists, layups, guard, defend, shoot, dribble and the whatnots. Rukawa couldn't believe that he's seeing all of this by just sitting on one corner of the bench. He saw how Ryonan lead the entire game and saw how Kainan almost tipped off the lead. Still, Ryonan continued to hang on a single thread. All thanks to number seven who basically did almost everything on court. Rukawa felt his hands form a fist. Truth is, he somewhat hated his roommate's teammates! Rukawa sweatdropped. 'Baka, why on Earth would you hate his teammates anyway? What for? Huh? Speak up, you silly!' He almost- and the author repeats: ALMOST wanted to stand up from the bench and shout at the top of his lungs and describe Sendoh's teammates using expletives. 'Teme Ryonan, all you have is a big center without brains, a point guard who loses the ball – not Sendoh of course, a guard with a big mouth, and a power forward who can't guard! Teme, doahos- baka!' His thoughts burned deep inside of him. Rukawa sighed exasperatedly. What on Earth is he thinking anyway? Is he freaking affected? Why and what for? Truly, this team is a circus and Sendoh is the ringmaster. Why on Earth does this certain player has to be on a team that doesn't seem to know what they're doing? Okay, Rukawa thought that his thoughts were a bit harsh- but he can't helped it. Not now especially that he's seeing everything of it and live. His eyes went into slits. 'Baka Rukawa Kaede, just chill- breathe in and breathe out. It's not like they're your team, right? Right?' Nope, it's not. It's just Sendoh's team. He seem to pause for a while. He kicked himself inwardly and wished a lamppost would appear somewhere so that he could bang his head onto it. 'That's the problem, its Sendoh's team alright.' And I want him to win this. Beat that old-alumni, Maki.' He went bug-eyed.
"Oi, are you okay?" His senpai seemed to notice him. 'Ch, this kid sure is a weirdo.'
Rukawa nodded. "Very." Mitsui sweatdropped. 'I can never understand weird Aces.'
"Ch, I thought you were fidgeting on your seat…" The three-pointer somewhat snarled, not really keen on starting a conversation with their silent member.
Rukawa furrowed his brows for a sec before shrugging off. 'I was fidgeting in my thoughts though.' But of course he wouldn't say that now, would he. Rukawa stood up that somewhat surprised their three-pointer. "Washroom." And Rukawa walked away. Mitsui simply… well, he sweatdropped again.
Rukawa discreetly walked behind to where his teammates are seated. Apparently, the nearest washroom is located near to where the bench of Ryonan team was. As Rukawa made his way to the said bench where the blue-jersey boys are, he clutched tighter to his bag and slightly lowered his head so that his eyes were slightly obscured by his fringes. He slightly took note of the team- hurdled in a circle, the said Center was the one talking and everyone seemed to be keen on listening. Hikoichi can be seen with a worried look on his face though, and as the pale guy shifted his gaze on one corner- he saw him. Huffing. Breathing heavy. Eyes a bit down cast. Chest heaving in rugged breaths. He saw Sendoh wiped the beads of sweat on his forehead with the back of his hand; the said Ace wasn't part of the hurdle though, he seems not to be listening to his Captain whose busy trying to put on a brilliant play. Rukawa took noticed of the water bottle that the spiky-haired guy has been holding. It was empty. Sendoh almost looked forlorn staring at his empty water bottle, he looked really tired. Rukawa felt his chest thump… not really sure as to why it happened though. He felt somewhat akin to… concern. It's only normal, right? To feel concern? Everyone needs someone to sort of look after them once in a while…? Rukawa's eyes formed slits. 'Where. Did. That. Petty. Thought. Came. From?' He kicked himself inwardly and sighed softly.
'The smiling doaho is thirsty…' Rukawa felt his fingers clutching involuntarily on one side of his bag, his eyes almost widened when he felt something like a bottle on the inside. When he looked up though, he is now standing in front of the washroom's door. He sighed and just went inside the comfort room. Inside though, he forgot his purpose to pee- as he rummaged into his bag and voila, a bottle of Gatorade he found. He found himself dumbly staring on the one-litre of bottle for a while. 'I have an extra drink?' Rukawa partly remembered that he has brought two drinks in their game against Shoyo; but it was the Pocari that he downed. He shook his head and put the bottle back inside his bag- seemed to be thinking for a while.
'Sendoh looked tired alright.' He didn't know why it seemed to somewhat bother him. Truth is, Ryonan seemed to be a bit panicking since Kainan already is on their tail.
4th quarter. 75-74, one point lead by Ryonan. Less than 2 minutes on the game. Everyone seemed to be on the edge of their seats. Hikoichi for once was not babbling. He has a serious face on. Kainan too, seemed to be on a race. They need one sure basket to topple over Ryonan's four-quarter leads. Maki was giving everything he got. He was putting on pressure, making the blue boys try to commit a foul and having three-point plays to further closed-in the gap. Sendoh though, remains to be unfazed. He was basically going from defence-mode to offense. It was almost painful to watch him. 'Sendoh… you truly are one talented kid.' Maki inwardly thought as he sip onto his juice and looked on to one huffing spiky-haired boy; the said kid has his back on them, hands on his hips as he looked blankly in front of him.
Meanwhile…
Sendoh can feel the sweat trickling down from his forehead. He was huffing deeply. He could feel his chest thumping as his heart raced its beat faster. He was tired. Switching from defence to offence and then passing, making plays, guarding Maki- being double-teamed up. He was beat. This he knew of. Uozumi has four personal fouls, Koshino and Uekusa has two each, Ikegami has one, Fukuda has three and he, has none yet. He decided to bench Uekusa first and tried for a tighter defence. 'Oh boy, I need a drink… I'm so thirsty.' He took two steps and rummaged thru his duffel bag- he saw his empty sports bottle though. 'Damn, I should have packed three bottles.' He looked momentarily to his right and saw his team in a semi-circle; Uozumi carefully instructing their would-be play while the others listen. He puffed out a sigh though. Fukuda was looking at him while drinking onto his own water bottle. The silent forward approached his colleague and held out his half-filled bottle.
"Water, Captain?" Fukuda held his water bottle- eyes looking tired. Sendoh momentarily broke out of his reverie and looked to see Kicchou handing him a bottle. He smiled tiredly and grabbed the offer. He held the bottle up without touching his mouth onto it- empty. But it was not enough. 'Still thirsty… damn!' Sendoh tossed back the bottle and nodded his thanks. Fukuda simply sighed and his next words somewhat surprised Sendoh.
"Keep passing to me, Cap… I'll make it." Fukuda sounded serious. Akira looked with slight confusion- but somehow he understood well. He faintly smiled and nodded. "Thanks, Kicchou- let's see, shall we?" Fukuda nodded his reply and went back to where the team was, just in time for him to hear Sendoh speak of something…
"Washroom, two-minutes!" Sendoh decided to grab his empty bottle and jogged off.
"Where is he?!" Koshino shouted- scowling yet again for the nth time.
"Nature calls." Fukuda simply retorted to which the whole team simply snorted. Uozumi sighed deeply as his would-be play seemed not enough to topple Kainan over. He shook his head momentarily. 'Damn it, what do we do?' Ikegami tried to butt in. "Maybe we should rest him for a bit- then subbed him after one successful basket; if we make this play." Uekusa seemed to agree. "I agree with Ikegami-senpai, Sendoh looks tired."
"No, we can't! We need him- it's less than two minutes, he'll just have to hang on." Koshino reasoned. Definitely seating down Sendoh is not an option, good if they're leading by ten- but they're just up by one and Koshino isn't really damn sure if they can pull off a play without their Ace on it.
"But senpai is ssooo tired- and yet…" Hikoichi whined worriedly. Fukuda huffed out a sigh. He too, wanted to bench Sendoh for a moment- but he's also contemplating if his skills are enough to match even Kiyota's speed. Besides, who would pass to him without their spiky-haired colleague? Uekusa is not a keen passer and Koshino seems a bit slow and predictable when he passes.
Meanwhile…
Rukawa seems to be in deep thought when a door was slammed open. He was just caught up into one of the many surprises in his life for that day when the seemingly object of his musings came in- eyes somewhat blank, body all cover with sweat, and was a bit wobbly. Sendoh seemed not to notice him as the said tall player hurriedly went straight into the drinking fountain. Rukawa sweatdropped. 'What on Earth is he-!?' Sendoh bent down, and switched on the faucet and gulped every bit of water he could actually get into his parched and tired body, unbeknownst to a pair of icy cold blues that has been staring him for quite some time now. When he was done, he decided to open the nearby faucet and washed his face briskly- still remaining oblivious. He turned off the faucet and rested for a bit; his chest heaving deeply as he catches his breath.
Akira is already feeling it—the tiredness creeping into his well-built body. He could honestly feel his knees a bit wobbly already- from running to and fro the entire court. He could feel his muscles tensed-up. 'Damn… damn… just two more minutes, Akira, hang in there-?!' His cobalt blue eyes widened a bit when a familiar voice broke his internal musings- too stunned not to look behind him to see a very familiar face and the unknown thumping of his chest that seems to speak of something akin to… wanting to see this person…
"Are you alright?" His voice sounded soft and wrapped with utmost sincerity. Rukawa clutched to his bag- eyes clouded with a bit of concern for the latter. This is the first time he saw Sendoh looking all too beat up. He almost regretted that he's in the same place as his rival is. He almost thought that the taller guy might not want him to this sort of… vulnerability of him. So, he asked him if he's okay. Not really knowing what to say at that given moment. Rukawa gulped involuntarily as his eyes were deadlocked with a pair of cobalt blue. The pale guy was about to open his mouth when he Sendoh beat him to it…
"Rukawa-kun…" Sendoh's voice sounded a bit relief. He doesn't seem to know as to why he seemed relieved then. Truth is, Sendoh thought that the younger man's presence brought him about a feeling of being rejuvenated. He felt…happy to see his younger protégé for a moment. Shaking his thoughts aside- he gave the boy one of his softest smile-but the said smile, reaching his eyes, making them twinkle in amusement. Rukawa looked stunned for a bit- before deciding to look down at the floor.
"It's good to see you here… I kinda was surprised." Sendoh admitted. 'Good to see him in the washroom? Sound's silly, Akira!' Sendoh almost chuckled if only he wasn't feeling all too tired. He felt his weariness went away for a moment. 'Rukawa, you may never know but… I really find you amusing and something else.' The said stoic boy suddenly opened his bag and wordlessly walked towards Sendoh- the latter observing him silently as well. Rukawa grabbed the bottle that Sendoh-filled in with water and replaced it with his own one-litre of Gatorade. Sendoh looked surprised as he somewhat opened his mouth to speak but no words came out.
"I… know you're tired." The Shohoku Rookie started- he felt his chest thumping a bit- he has never been this close to his rival. The only space between them is almost half an arm's length away. Rukawa can basically feel the heat emanating from the taller guys body- since his roommate has been on the court for nearly forty minutes now and without rest. He almost felt sorry for Sendoh.
Sendoh couldn't helped but to sincerely smile as he grabbed the Gatorade, twist the cap open and gulped from it. He wiped his mouth with the back of his hand and smiled his charming smile. He felt truly endeared for a moment. 'I know you're tired' speaks more than just the sentence, this Sendoh knew of somewhat…
'I know you're tired… I can see that. You've been giving everything, here's a juice for you too, Senpai.'
"Thank you, Rukawa Kaede. I feel like, I could beat Kainan now, you know." He grinned. He doesn't know why he said that, but part of it he deemed of as true. Sendoh's eyes were smiling. Rukawa looked away trying to hide his impending flush- he shook his head momentarily before triumphantly washing off the slight tinge of pink that has made its way onto his face.
"Hn, doaho…" And Rukawa turned around to leave. He was stopped by a voice though.
"Well, aren't you going to wish your good-looking senpai luck?" He can feel Sendoh grinning behind his back. Rukawa didn't know why he doesn't really want to see that grinning face of his older colleague though. 'Baka, Sendoh Akira- with less than two minutes in the game and you're asking for luck?' 'And what's with the good-looking senpai thing anyway?! Baka!' He went bug-eyed & almost rolled his eyes in response. Rukawa simply shrugged and stick to his poker face on. "I won't be wishing you that…"
"Oh? Why so?" Sendoh inquired- lips forming into a smile. His hands on his hips- almost forgetting about the amount of time already he's been spending inside the washroom—too caught up with his intriguing roommate. "You want me to lose instead?!" Sendoh retorted feigning hurt, and he chuckled. Rukawa almost tugged his lips upward. 'Baka, you truly are a big baka!'
"The only thing about luck is that it will change, so why trust something that changes…" Only then Rukawa turned to meet the gaze of his taller roommate. His voice, soft but very pleasing to the taller guys ears. "On the other hand, hard work pays off- the harder you work, the luckier you get."
Sendoh was surprised. It was probably the longest speech he has heard of- coming from someone who isn't really keen on talking. He would have record it if he has his phone with him. He smiled warmly and nodded at Rukawa who was taken aback when Sendoh started walking towards him. He saw a bit of panic in the eyes of the younger guy and as he passed by him- Sendoh wasn't able to help but to put his hand on top of Rukawa's hair and ruffled the latter's hair. Rukawa stiffened to the first touch given to him by his roommate and felt his cheeks heat up- good for him, his head was a bit cast down. Sendoh's hand were big but warm… it almost felt nice being touched by him. Rukawa felt his heart raced as if there was something chasing it... 'Calm down, Rukawa… what on Earth are you-?' He inwardly berated himself that he should have just… well, shut up. But he kind of felt good saying those words.
Sendoh understood. Rukawa meant that- he doesn't need to wish for him to win, because he firmly believes that he- they will win. He knows that his younger colleague has been watching on the side fervently and only then Sendoh suddenly remembers of the small but significant promise he kept to himself. 'You want me to beat them, ne, Rukawa-kun?' And the next words that the taller guy uttered made Rukawa's eyes widened in surprised- he almost gasps out aloud- all thanks to his fringes that has been obscuring his view for quite a while now…
"Sure, anything you say sunshine." That warm & low voice said to him, and the door was shut close behind just as that warm hand left his ruffled hair. Rukawa found himself staring blankly at the door in front of him- eyes widened a bit, an obvious tinge of pink on his cheeks.
Sunshine…? 'Baka Sendoh Akira. You're a grade- A baka, alright'. Well, it seems like blushing is all too common nowadays for our dear Super Rookie.
"There you are, where have you been anyway? What took you so long?!" Koshino scowled as Sendoh approached their bench- an easy smile on his face, a bottle of Gatorade on his other hand. Fukuda took noticed of the drink his teammate has been holding and somewhat saw another figure emerged discreetly from the washroom- his gaze could never deceived him though, that familiar tall, pale, and lanky frame- raven-haired head that seemed to walked silently behind to where his team are… Fukuda sighed inwardly as he shrugged off other impending thoughts. Not the type to ask a lot of questions though, he looked to his Captain and saw Sendoh somewhat rejuvenated. He could only smile to himself… 'It's good to see you, renewed, Taichou.'
"Sorry…" Sendoh sheepishly grinned. "
"Did you pooped or something?!" Uozumi asked, everyone paused for a while before laughing. Sendoh decided to just join in the fun. "Yeah, I got so nervous because they caught up with us, that I needed to unload!" And he grinned and chuckled to his own amusement. Of course, Sendoh knows better. Koshino simply shook his head and grinned nonetheless. 'Sick bastard you are, Sendoh…'
"Well then, let's finish this now, shall we?" Sendoh cheerily stated. And a resounding 'YES' was the blue boys said in unison.
"Took you long enough, let me guess, you pooped?" Rukawa went bug eyes as he sat down from where he was originally a while ago. It was his Senpai Mitsui- Rukawa wanted to elbow his scar-faced senior. 'Yare yare…' He inwardly sighed and decided to just get along with their three-pointer.
"Hai, senpai… my stomach hurts." Rukawa somewhat joked while keeping his poker face on.
"Eww! Gross!" And Mitsui fidgeted on his seat to move to his right closed to where the redhead was.
"Teme, Micchy-kun, why are you snuggling closer to the Tensai?!" Sakuragi obviously allergic to a man-to-man thingy. "Rukawa here- LBM, gross!" Mitsui blurted. Rukawa clenched his fist in annoyance. 'Teme, baka!' He shouldn't have joked about it. Sakuragi looked dumbfounded and that is where he decided to laughed his ass off. Miyagi and Akagi looked exasperated as they tried to ignore the silly antics from their sides. Ayako and Haruko was busy writing on some papers- basically it is about the playing stats & records that they have to accomplished as well while on camp.
"Hahaha, you're gross Kitsune- I hope you dehydrate your stomach off!" Sakuragi laughed as if there's no tomorrow, tears welling up at the corner of his eyes. Miyagi was annoyed being on his side, he was pushing the tall red head off- he was being crushed. Mitsui was having some snickers, frantically enjoying the verbal par between their two menacing forwards.
"Tch, I hope you bang your head somewhere & be comatose, Doaho!"
"Teme, you diarrhoea asshole!" Sakuragi shouted.
"That's enough you two, get over with! Sakuragi, concentrate and try to muster some moves! Rukawa, go get some medicine will you!" Akagi hollered. Everyone kept quiet. Rukawa sweatdropped for the nth time- he never thought that 'lying' unintentionally would cause him this kind of ruckus. 'Even Captain seemed to believed, that I'm having diarrhoea, ugh.'
From afar, Fujima can be heard asking, "Who's having diarrhoea?" To which he simply earned a shrugged to his taller Shoyo members.
The last two minutes were crucial. It was hard to watch as each team tried to tighten their defence in hopes of not letting the other team gained the upper hand. The orange ball was being chased by ten superior players- it was bounced, passed, tossed, and was dribbled in many fancy ways. The crowd was frantic as the ball kept on bouncing off the hoop- still, the score was 75-74. Maki still has fouls to give so as Sendoh- both Aces battled it out as if there's only the two of them on court and no one else. Sendoh still sported his quality passes to which Fukuda was able to read. The Ryonan team was on the edge of their seats because the passes where superb and it was only Fukuda that can seem to read as to where Sendoh will slapped off the ball- without even looking at each other. It is as if Sendoh knows where to find Fukuda.
One minute. Probably the turning point of the game… it was Ryonan's ball and as a miraculous steal was made by Koshino- he run with all his might as all the blue boys charged towards their goal. As the orange ball was passed to Sendoh- it was highly intercepted by Maki to the surprised of one spiky-haired boy… the said point guard then dashed off towards their court- passed the ball on to his noisy freshman to which the freshman smoothly placed on a sure lay-up earning their team, two points.
The score was 75-76, now in favour of Kainan. The Shoyo bench seemed to celebrate in glee, of course Fujima grinned and made a two thumbs up sign. He was happy. It was given.
Hikoichi threw his towel in horror. Even the Shohoku bench was dumbfounded. Surely they hadn't seen that coming! Sakuragi stood up and was ready to rumble with Kiyota but he was held back by Akagi and Miyagi. Mitsui shook his head and berated Koshino for being such a pussy-passer. The annoyed guard scowled back in return- Mitsui gave him the finger and eventually even the three-pointer was punched on the head by their Captain. Uozumi was a bit shocked- he was a bit pissed off, he can't seemed to execute properly because of his four personal fouls- one wrong move and he'd be fouled out, Sendoh would be far more beat.
Thirty seconds- the game was still on, unfortunately though- team Kainan was now using the time as it dwindled down further. Sendoh has to give up his first foul to stop the time- it was called by Kogure; but the said guy to be send on the free throw was Maki. Sendoh shook his head- running a hand thru his spiked hair, bending down to somewhat rest on the side, as Maki threw in the first throw, he was neither smiling nor frowning. He was simply feeling tired. 'Oh brother…I'm so beat, I could die.' He inwardly muttered, he knew of Maki's skill to be a 9/10 along the free throw lines and he could only wonder if he's made the right decision. He inwardly wished that the second throw would bounce off. 'Damn, bounced off will ya…' He shook his head- cobalt blue eyes directed towards the orange rubber ball as it arched up onto the basket- only to….
'Fuck, don't go IN there~…' Sendoh heard himself swore.
And as if there is a divine intervention- the second throw bounced off indeed! Sendoh almost smirked as he sped off towards the other end. It was wrestled by Uozumi and Takasago, but the Ryonan Center kept the ball so tight that it was almost impossible to be stolen. Uozumi used all his might to find Sendoh who apparently started running towards at the end of the court though, hands on the air- signalling the bigger guy to pass him indeed the ball at long range. Uozumi did so- all eyes were on the orange rubber as it was passed from end to end's point- the Shoyo bench was all on their feet as the heated game is finally dawning to a resounding climax… Shohoku was of course shouting and hooting their asses off for Ryonan. From one corner, Rukawa found himself clutching his bag tighter, eyes a bit wide, his chest beating twice as fast- he was expecting them to pull this one off… For some reason, he wanted them- him to win this one off; he saw the effort he made to lead his team… Rukawa thought, Sendoh earnestly deserves to win this- even if it's just a friendly matched…
10 seconds left- as the ball was made ready to arch down, Sendoh jumped to catch the ball into his hands- he dribbled it for a while and was ready to fire a three from behind the line when the said rubber was tapped off from his hands by no other than Maki to the spiky-haired guy's surprised...
'Maki-san again?! But how?! When did he?!'
5 seconds left- with the ball being battled about by two exceptionally outstanding players on court- Sendoh, still trying to get a hold on the bouncing leather rubber as well as Maki who was trying to shove the taller guy away from his position- a resounding whistle engulfed the whole area, signalling the end of a heated game between Kainan and Ryonan. Silence ensued. All seemed to be dumbfounded. Until cheers and hoots were made by one side of the bench to where Shoyo and some of the Kainan members were. The game ended. The score was 75-77. Kainan, won.
The team gathered on the centre and rammed onto each other's bodies- exchanging high fives and slapping each other. It was almost dehydrating to watch. Uozumi was stunned from where he was standing. It was just a no-bearing game, a friendly game- no more, no less. But he felt as if he failed once more. He gulped involuntarily- suddenly feeling all too forlorn and cast away. Fukuda was huffing as the intense run seeped onto him, he momentarily was able to walk to where their bench was and decided to sit down a bit to rest. His eyes however hover over to where one certain player was… number seven. Uekusa and the others almost felt akin like something big has slipped away from their hands- they shook their heads and went on to tap hands towards the other members as a sign of sportsmanship.
Shohoku team was dumbfounded and obviously stunned. Mitsui kept on clacking his tongue and was partly pissed off because the team he was rooting for lost by some mere freaking points. Akagi stood up and decided to walk towards an unmoving Uozumi. Ryota sighed in frustration and twitched his lips before speaking.
"Well, the ball is round alright- it's anybody's game. It was good though."
"You're right, it was exhilarating to watch. Sigh, and I almost wanted for Ryonan to win!" Ayako chirped in. Also feeling sorry for the two-points deficit. Haruko nodded in agreement. "Sendoh-san is so amazing on court, I hope he's okay though." Both Ayako and Ryota turned to where the said guy was. And the said Ryonan Ace has his back turned from everyone else- his jersey tucked out, a hand on his hip- one hand raking on top of his semi-spiked hair. No one can see his face. He seemed not to move for a while.
Meanwhile…
Maki was drinking onto his water bottle but his eyes were on one certain player on one corner of the court. He truly felt happy that they've won- even though it's just a friendly match, they were still able to prove as to why they have been reigning for the past 17 years. He knew he had to approach the latter. He's got a lot to tell and a few questions in mind. Maki knew that Sendoh's calibre is not to be reckoned with. They almost lost awhile back- the said guy is oozing with talent- he was marvellous. He was basically an all-around type of player and Maki almost felt that he's with the wrong team. If Sendoh chose Kainan as his would-be school, Maki was damn sure that no other team would even come close to beating them- not even if Shohoku has Rukawa Kaede with them. He knows that the pale rookie is also the demon of offense but he still has lot to learn.
'Sendoh, it truly is an honour to be playing on the courts against you- you're a deadly combination charm, talent and wit most of the times… Talent hits a target no one else can hit. Genius hits a target, no one else can see.' Maki decided to step forward- ready to face the Ryonan Ace who remained oblivious to his surroundings. He ought to have a word with Sendoh- he just have to.
Sendoh stared at the linoleum floor- his stare was blank- he can hear the cheers, the hoots, the high-fives, and the loud cackles and blabbers of all the people behind him, still he kept his eyes fixed on the floor. His thoughts were blank; his eyes seemed to fixate on the orange rubber ball that has been lying down and unmoving in front of him. He absent-mindedly bent down to picked the rubber ball- and upon touching the said orange sphere though, he dribbled the ball once so hard that it bounced back in lightning speed, but he was still able to caught it. He looked at it for a moment before a familiar voice broke his reverie. He turned his gaze and was greeted by the serious face of no other than, Maki Shinichi himself. Sendoh softly sighed- lips locked in a straight line, eyes looking a bit far and technically tired. Maki noted that some of Sendoh's spikes were bowed down already due to sweat. A hand was extended- Sendoh momentarily looked on to the dark, tanned hand and opened partly his lips as if he wants to say something but kept it nonetheless.
Truth is, he was not mad. He was just disappointed. He wanted to ask, 'what went wrong' but he knew otherwise. The one thing that has been slightly bugging him though was that tiny speckled of a feeling he's been having as if he broke something akin to a promise that he'd be winning against Kainan. Sendoh was never the one to sulk at a game- he has quite the reputation of moving on when losing. He never has the habit of blaming others either- it was a good one. It was well-fought, this he knew of. They almost bagged the win. It's just that… he felt a bit frustrated at himself for not being able to keep a certain promise to a certain someone. And he feels as if he has downed him.
'Oh boy…' What would the latter say then? He was there to coach them and then here they are, losing to a rival team. Sendoh thought that he really needs to rest the whole remaining hours- suddenly forgetting the idea that tomorrow is a brand new day and that he has to play yet again, but this time- with that certain person whom he almost made a promise to that he will win… for him, at least.
"Good game, Sendoh…" Maki started. His hand still extended. Sendoh's eyes seemed to focus now as he sighed out a deep one. Maki smiled a bit- the sincere and sportsman-type of smile. Somehow, Sendoh found his lips curving upward and taking in the hand that has been offered for a couple of minutes now.
"Yeah, it was…" The Ryonan Ace replied- voice sounding very manly low but clear. "It was… intense." Sendoh shook his head momentarily before breaking into a small grin. 'Oh well~ time to move on, again perhaps?' Maki nodded his reply and both drew back their hands.
"I thought we'd be bowing down for a while back there." Maki instigated the chat. He knew of this. He just had to somehow distract the idea of losing to Sendoh- Maki knows that deep down, Sendoh still has his tiny pride and that he's still like any other normal teenager out there who also gets down and sad when something inevitable happens. Maki somehow wouldn't want to see the perky Captain of Ryonan in that manner though, although he knows that Sendoh has a strong personality and that he knew that the latter would simply be shrugging off what happened today by tomorrow.
"Me too, I thought we're winning already." A soft chuckle. And Maki inwardly congratulate himself- yep, he was feeling glad that the charming Ace of Ryonan seems to be returning back.
"You gave me a hard time though."
"I did? Really? Haha- well, I was having a hard time, myself." Sendoh rubbed the back of his nape- his boyish grin back on his handsome features. 'Phew, I'm dead tired- I want to sleep already!'
"I can see that." Maki nodded- a small smile playing on his lips. Sendoh stretched both of his arms a bit, and a yawn escaped his lips. Rubbing his eyes tiredly- a smile instantly forming on his lips.
Just then, Fujima approached the two- an obvious smile on his lips.
"Hey, you two- put on a show there huh?" He grinned. Maki simply smiled back. Sendoh chuckled softly.
"It was Maki-san who put on a better show though." Sendoh managed to retort back. Fujima laughed- Maki simply rolled his eyes.
"Maybe we should go now, Kenji, I'm starving already." Fujima nodded and looked back at Sendoh who was eyeing them both with amusement. "See you around, hotshot!" The shorter guy joked as both Aces turned around to leave one Ryonan-Ace on court. 'Fujima-san can be a flirt alright.' Sendoh chuckled amusedly at his insane thought. He knows he shouldn't think of that but given that he's beat and dead tired, he gave himself the right to be mean for a while. He was about to leave as well when a voice caught up with him.
"Oh, by the way Sendoh…" It was Maki- they were about five steps away from him. The gym was empty now- since most of the players exited already. Sendoh saw an unknown glint in Maki's eye. He cocked his head slightly, waiting for the impending question. 'Oh boy, what about now?'
"…I was wondering who's that someone who asked you to beat me though, that you just can't say no to, hmm?" And Maki grinned. Fujima looked from Sendoh to his lover, obviously unaware of this new statement. Sendoh's ears almost perked up- he hadn't seen this coming. He seem to pause for a while- contemplating whether he would give in or keep it to himself. He decided to choose the latter option. Sendoh marched towards the bench that still has his duffel bag on and a bottle of drink that has been given to him- he kept a visible grin on his lips, eyes twinkling in amusement. 'Nosy seniors…' he inwardly chuckled to himself.
"Just someone." He stated nonchalantly- zipping up his duffel bag and placing them on his shoulder. He drank for a while before re-capping the bottle to stare cheekily at the two lovers. Maki seemed to be waiting for an answer.
"Someone special?" Fujima tried to butt in- humouring himself, although he hasn't got a clue as to what those two are talking about. Sendoh laughed- eyes widening a bit- but it kind of gladdened him.
"I, well- maybe." The Ryonan dude simply chuckled in response. 'Someone special? I kinda liked that.'
"Really? So, what are you going to tell this someone now- seems like I beat you, didn't I?" Maki somewhat goaded and pressed further. He wants to slightly humour the Ace of Ryonan. Sendoh found himself chuckling at the question- it was a good one. 'Good ol' Maki-senpai sure knows to corner…damn, I hate this tanned bastard.' He inwardly laughed.
"I will tell him that…" Sendoh seem to pause for a while before his lips formed into a handsome upward tug. "Sometimes we need to lose the small battles in order to win the war." And Sendoh unleashed his disarming smile. Maki's eyes widened a bit. It was a smart back fire. 'Genius.' Was the word that crept onto Maki's mind upon hearing those words. He smiled back.
"Hm, I am intrigued though. See you both on the courts then." Maki stated and the two walked towards the exit- without further inquiries. Sendoh looked on those two and nodded wordlessly as he too started to make his way out of the gym. He glanced one last look at the now empty court and closed the door slowly.
Sendoh walked towards the empty hallways from where the basketball gym was and straight into the lobby. He saw a few people from Shoyo and they acknowledge his presence somewhat. He nodded in return. He pressed the 'up' button of the elevator and waited for a few seconds until the elevator door opened and he hurried inside. As he was about to pressed the close button, a hand came in between the closing door and Sendoh was met by the sad eyes of none other than their freshman, Aida Hikoichi. Sendoh was a bit surprised. Aida went in and the elevator started to go up.
"Senpai…" Aida started, his head a bit cast down. Sendoh smiled knowingly as he placed his hand on top of Hikoichi's head.
"Sorry about that…" Hikoichi's eyes widened in shock- he looked up and saw Sendoh's apologetic gaze on him. 'Is this even real? Are Captain's supposed to say sorry?' He doesn't even remember Uozumi-san asking for apology. Aida was a bit dumbfounded. He shook his head vigorously.
"Sendoh-taichou, it's not your fault! Please do not apologize!" Hikoichi almost whimpered. He saw what their Ace did a while back and it was almost Godly to watch as the spiky-haired boy mustered all the moves he's got that send even the Shohoku bench in frenzied. Hikoichi was even baffled in his own seat as plays were perfectly executed right in front of him with almost utmost accuracy. Sendoh snorted softly and scratched his cheek absent-mindedly.
"Well, it feels a bit sad, isn't it?" But he cheekily grinned. Hikoichi simply nodded. 'Amazing, you really are great Senpai- I wonder how you are able to keep that one up.'
"Sendoh-senpai… I really wish we have more players like you around. I feel like you really need a much stronger backup- I mean, I know you can't possibly play all the positions on court- and to see you almost at par with Maki-san is almost breath-taking to watch. It must be utterly difficult for you senpai-to almost feel alone against five." Sendoh simply smiled back- eyes focusing in front of him. This boy truly looks up to him, and he almost hated the fact that he disappointed him a while back, but what to say, anyway?
"Hikoichi-kun, I never felt that I was alone on that court. Our teammates are there. They have been getting the ball, passing it, and making way to get us some points." He then smiled, suddenly wanting to impart a little something that might make the younger guy feel better. "A game is a game, there will always be one who will emerged as the winner…" He waited for Hikoichi to look up to him, just as the elevator door opened. Hikoichi found himself sniffing back some of his tears, determination etched on his eyes as he replied with a resounding 'YES' to what his Captain told him before exiting the elevator.
'Sendoh-senpai, I will be strong, so that I could help you out on court!'
'Remember this, Hikoichi-kun, one man can be a crucial ingredient to a team, but one man cannot make a team.'
And he smiled.
Rukawa has been sitting wordlessly on his bed after the Ryonan-Kainan game. Right after the final seconds ticked off, sending the blue-jersey boys in defeat, he stayed for a bit. He remembered seeing the happy faces of Shoyo and Kainan as they slapped and wham each other's back in glee. He also saw his teammates extended their congratulations to the winning team. The redhead was very furious but somehow he found a way to slap the hand of Kiyota. It was an intense game and Rukawa almost thought that Ryonan had it going. But—it all came so sudden. Just two points and the waves came crashing down on them. Honestly, Rukawa has no rights or whatsoever to feel sorry about. He thought that it was not his team at stake- they won, Ryonan didn't. They are going to the IH, and Ryonan isn't. So what's ticking him off then? Back in the gym, he found himself staring from a distance at one certain player from that time though- the one he momentarily met while he was inside the washroom. Rukawa almost widened his eyes in surprise as he suddenly remembers the big but warm hands of his senior…ruffling his hair, the small exchange of words they had and the undeniably charm of Sendoh's personality that really caught him single-handedly. 'Char-ming?!' He went bug-eyed for a while.
Rukawa later on found himself exiting the gym after Ryonan's lost- he momentarily looked to where Sendoh was standing- and almost wanted to approach the taller guy if it hadn't been for Maki, himself, that seemed to approach the latter. The Shohoku Rookie decided to just wait for his roommate then in their room. 'Not that I'm expecting him to be back instantly…' Rukawa slightly fidgeted on his seat- eyes staring blankly at Sendoh's empty bed before him.
'Sendoh… that was some play indeed.' And Rukawa was almost certain that if, and IF Sendoh would be playing the monster that he is awhile back together with him on their upcoming 'team-up', Rukawa knew that he needs to muster all the moves and techniques he also has if he wants to keep up with his older partner.
'Well… it's not like, we need to practice now for the upcoming battles? The warm-up games just ended.' Besides, they've been told that they are free for the whole afternoon. Rukawa heaved up a soft sigh when a sound of the door opening caught his attention. He suddenly found himself perking up a bit- eyes fixated on that small corner that might reveal who the intruder is any minute now. 'Baka, intruder?' Rukawa inwardly knocked onto his own head. 'Who on Earth might intrude you anyway, it's not like this is your personal room though, baka.'
A few seconds more, the door was opened and in came- Sendoh. Rukawa's eyes stared for a bit as the older boy also took notice of his presence. Sendoh plopped down his bag on his bed and smiled his usual greeting.
"Hey there." Sendoh waved off nonchalantly. Rukawa nodded- imitating a battery-operated robot. He saw Sendoh chuckled a bit before deciding to open their common cabinet and started picking up some new clothes to wear. Rukawa took notice of the now slightly empty Gatorade that he gave the taller guy a while back.
"You went off ahead as usual, Rukawa-kun…" Sendoh snorted as he turned around to meet the gaze of his one and only roommate. Rukawa furrowed his brows for a sec. 'What the heck is this idiot, talking about anyway?'
"You didn't wait for me." Sendoh smiled while leaning on the cabinet. His eyes cheerily twinkling in sheer amusement. Rukawa snorted back. 'Ah, so that's it- what about it anyway?'
"You were busy talking to Maki-san." Rukawa reasoned, suddenly crossing his arms on his chest- eyes glaring for a bit, not really wanting to be somewhat blamed at something so… so… petty. 'And why on Earth would I wait for you anyway, aho?' Sendoh softly chuckled, eyes rolling as he continued to talk about random things.
"Yeah, apparently I was- and you know what- he told me, that I gave him a hard time."
"And you believed that old fart?" Rukawa shot back coolly. Sendoh laughed. He didn't see that coming- that Rukawa- this young freshman from Shohoku has the nerve to call someone as great as Maki Shinichi of Kainan- an old fart. Rukawa found himself tugging his lips upward- good thing Sendoh was still laughing his ass off. 'He'll be damn scared if he sees me laughing, ugh. Baka, Rukawa Kaede.'
"Hahahah- Ru, Rukawa-kun, you sick kid. You are so… mean." Sendoh said in between his burst out. "Are you Shohoku guys, all like that?" Sendoh can't help but to ask and grinned. Rukawa simply hned and shrugged off. "It's for you to find out." Rukawa replied, pushing himself more on top of his bed to lean further as he bring back his gaze on his celphone- scrolling once again randomly at icons. Sendoh rolled his eyes in amusement. He was glad. 'Well, what do you know, Rukawa-kun sure is adorable alright.' Suddenly Sendoh didn't feel as if he lost to a game- and he seemed contented.
"But damn, really- Maki-san surely trashed me awhile back." Sendoh almost pouted.
"No he didn't." Rukawa replied softly, eyes still on his celphone while holding on to his poker face.
"You think so?" Sendoh asks back-a charming grin forming at his young features. Rukawa felt that he was being stared at as he mustered all his will NOT to look at his left- he doesn't want to see that smiling face… he felt his chest thump a bit. 'Baka, Sendoh Akira- stop looking.' Rukawa momentarily sighed and looked blankly ahead of him.
"He didn't trashed you, and don't worry…" Sendoh's eyes widened as the next words brought about a feeling akin to warmth deep inside of him. It was Rukawa after all who said it- softly but clearly, and the taller guy couldn't get any more but endeared at his tall, and lanky blue-eyed rival.
"…it doesn't matter if you win or not, as long as you give everything in your heart." Silence. Rukawa found himself gasping at his own statement- as he shot back a look of surprise to his older teammate, who was looking back with surprised as well at him-?! 'Wait a minute, where did that come from?!' He is almost certain that he absolutely wants to bang his head on the wall now- and the only thing that has been preventing him from doing so is that stare that has been holding his gaze, and that smile that marred the Ace of Ryonan's face deemed to be as handsome plus the statement that really got him all shaken up.
"Whatever you say, sunshine." He said in his low bedroom voice and Akira only grinned and chuckled as he made his way to the washroom.
'I'll kill you bloody Sendoh Akira, I promised.' Rukawa seethed in sheer annoyance as he punch the pillow on his right side, but the tinge of pink on his cheeks clearly contradicts his thoughts.
TBC
a/n: BTW, this is an edited version of chapter 7! I noticed there are typos and the whatnots! I already slept at 2:30 am just to finish this long one! Sheesh-?! Took me seven days to update! I am sooo slacking off! Argh, I hate the holiday season! Wahh, tell me what you think? I surpassed my other chapters with this one- this is 17 pages and I am soo happy that the games are finally over- for now. Hahaha. Well, I am excited to write the next coming chapters because it will now be more focused on SenRu's together-ness! Yahooo! *giggles* I am soo freaking excited =3 Addicted to SD and to everyone else, thank you so much! But really, this is the hardest chapter to write for me… Ugh. I'm the one that desperately needs Gatorade, Ruru-chan! *whines* Tell me what you think, RnR if you have time :D To be called sunshine is soo nice, donchathink so, Rukawa-kun?! *Rukawa sweatdrops* =3