Title: Life, Newspaper, and Basketball
Disclaimer: Slam Dunk belongs to Takehiko Inoue. I'm doing this to improve my creative writing. (shucks) Please don't sue me.
Authors Note: Hello there pips! This is my first attempt of a RuHaru fic. There's just so little of them out there...tsk, so depressing...I don't know how I'm going to pull this fic off, since I'm no writer...
**by the way, this is an AU fic. Rukawa is nicer, I mean NICER! And he's social, heck; he's even a journalist! At the top of all the good things...know what I'm saying?
CHAPTER 9: EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL (part 2)
'Is he avoiding me...?'
Haruko threw another glance at Rukawa who was talking with the adviser of the Varsitarian; he seem to be trying to convince Ms. Hinako about god knows what...
It was a usual sight if you we're a member of the Varsitarian. School activities we're pouring in since the Christmas is near; different projects and events are popping here and there, giving the journalist a field a day.
To say that the staff was excited would be downright understatement. The staff we're buzzing around with excitement, trying to help each other or outdoing each other; one cannot say. Everybody wants to make a big impression on his or her readers- and of course...
"I hope Rukawa will like my article!!"
"Mine too!!"
"Nah, I'd rather have a little...*mumbling something*…Who knows, he might ask me if I need help and we'd hang-out together- just like what he did with Haruko! *sigh*"
Haruko sweatdroped. Not that she was surprised that they know. Rukawa IS popular after all. She had spent a lot of time (and willpower) denying that nothing was going on between her and *their* Rukawa. The news that they we're "going-out" with each other spread like mad! Haruko had almost had to deny on every girl she meets.
Haruko snap back to reality when she saw Rukawa making his way out of Ms. Hinako's office. Haruko quickly jump off her seat and went to meet him.
"Rukawa!!" Haruko called.
And for a moment there, Haruko thought she saw Rukawa tense-up, and hesitated. But Rukawa turns and faces her so Haruko dismissed the thought, thinking that she was the one who is tense-up and not he. Taking a deep breath, she made her way towards her object of confusion...
"Hey..." Rukawa said softly.
"Hey you..." Haruko said with equal softness.
"....."
"D-do you need anything?" Rukawa asked.
"Huh...?"
"Do you need anything? You called me remember?" Rukawa said, smiling at the same time.
"Oh...oh! Right.....! I was wondering if you'd like to check my article.... you know, you might find something offending or wrong.... with your standards." Haruko said jokingly.
That certainly lightens up the mood.
"I hope you're not doing it on purpose so you'll have a reason to hang out with me. I heard it's a popular tactic around." Rukawa teased, putting on a goofy grin and looking all but dorky.
Haruko felt her cheeks burning...
"What made you think...you....! Hello, there's a thing called gravity and I'm wondering how much effort it has to put up just to make sure you're still on the ground. And besides, as if you don't like hanging around with me also!" Haruko smiled devilishly...
That made Rukawa cringe.
"Oh I think someone's enjoying my company and won't admit it even in a life or death situation."
Rukawa became more silent than ever.
'I think I embarrassed him...' Haruko said, fidgeting around.
They stood awkwardly by the door, looking everywhere but each other.
'This is so stupid! I shouldn't be acting weird or he'll think that I...I..." Haruko can't finish the thought.
"So..." they said in unison.
"You first!" they said at the same time.
"Okay." and for the 3rd time.
They both stood silent, getting more and more uncomfortable. Rukawa shrugged then smile. Haruko gave in and smile back. Rukawa pointed at her, telling her that she can have a go. Haruko nodded.
"Okay. That's sooo weird! Anways, help me?" Haruko said trying hard not to sound too eager.
Rukawa was silent for a moment, and Haruko felt that Rukawa was thinking twice about it. She didn't know why but the knowledge that Rukawa was actually thinking twice about it gave her a sudden tightening in her chest...a sudden pain. Haruko just held her breath when Rukawa opened his mouth to speak...
"I'll give it- "
Rukawa was cut-off by the sudden ring of his mobile. Rukawa gave Haruko a small nod indicating that he's sorry but he has to take this call and Haruko nodded in understanding. Rukawa turned his back but didn't move and started to talk *quietly*.
Haruko couldn't hear a thing and it was making her crazy! She can see Rukawa nodding his head then shaking his head, and then nodding again.... it was making her dizzy. Then she notices the sudden drop of Rukawa's shoulder. She so wanted to ask what's wrong but she bit her lip and controlled herself. Rukawa nodded for the last time then pocketed his mobile. Sighing out loud, he turned to face Haruko, shaking his head.
"I'm sorry Haruko...but I really need to go."
"Oh...umm, another meeting?" Haruko said, not minding that she sound disappointed.
"Uh...yes, some kind of." Rukawa said, looking away.
Of course Haruko did not believe this but decided to leave it like that. Rukawa started to walk away before Haruko could ask more questions but before he could take a step Haruko had spoken.
"How about tomorrow?"
Rukawa wanted to, really.
But he shook his head, not stating his reason.
"Oh...okay..." Haruko look down at the floor, now trying to hide her DISAPPOINTMENT.
Rukawa's heart broke at the sight.
"I know you'll do okay! Ms. Hinako will be checking your articles so don't worry. I'll see you around, okay?" Rukawa said, trying to sound cheerful. Trying...
'I don't want her to check my article...I want you..." Haruko thought...
'...To check my article....' she added as an afterthought.
When Rukawa can't take the silence anymore, he did what any pureblooded male would do with the situation: he walked away.
"Wait Rukawa!" Haruko called.
Rukawa was having a major confusion onslaught but turn to face her anyway. Haruko on the other hand was having curiosity and panic onslaught but decided to go for it...or she would surely lose her sanity.
"Are...a-are you avoiding me?"
She can tell that Rukawa was caught by surprised but his eyes suddenly turned soft and Haruko had the sudden urge to caress his face. Rukawa turn his whole profile at her and gave her a small smile...
"No, I'm not avoiding you, I'll never do that. I just.... just really need to go."
'What a lie Rukawa...you're so good at it.... making Haruko believe that you're not avoiding her.' Rukawa thought.
He wanted to take back his words. He knew that Haruko didn't believe him, and she was going to ask why...he knows...cause he's a journalist too...and journalist ask many questions...and they tend to bring out the truth...and that scares him...Haruko might found out that...that...
'That what?! What?!!' Rukawa shouted in silence.
But to his surprise, Haruko just smiled at him.
"Oh well, it must be really important, passing up an opportunity to spend time with me. Must be something big huh?" Haruko teased.
Rukawa could only smile. He love this girl!
'Right, cause she's being nice and she's being a good and understanding friend.' he thought.
But Rukawa knows...he can feel it.... she can't hide it...
"Yeah, it is." He said.
"More important than me the..." she teased more.
"Not more important than you." He said seriously that Haruko was taken aback.
And for a moment, Rukawa panicked but managed to still lighten the mood.
"But as for the moment it is...just this moment." He smiled.
"I'll take your word for it." She smiled back.
It was settled then...
"So...I'll see you around then..." Haruko said.
"Definitely..." Rukawa said, starting to walk backwards toward the exit.
"At the game?" Haruko said, now smiling broadly.
"I'll do a 30 for you, in exchange for this." He said and that really got her smiling.
Haruko nodded and Rukawa waved and ran.
'30...that's nice Rukawa, but that's not I want...'
And before she could think what she wants from him, she turn her back and went to her working table only to find a number of inquiring gazes directed at her and some dreamy ones towards the last spot that Rukawa had stand. Haruko just rolled her eye's and shook her head clearly saying that, 'no, its not what you think' and made her way without talking to anyone. That's the time she notice that the room suddenly went back to it's buzzing noise of excitement. She sighed and asked herself how come everything stops when Rukawa is around...
'How silly...I EXACTLY know why...'
-----------------------ruharu----------------------------
Rukawa run as fast as his athletic legs can. He wanted to run away from inquiring gazes of the staff, he wanted to run away from the room, but most, he wanted to run away from Haruko's hurt expression.
'Damnit, damnit.... damnit!!'
Rukawa run towards a destination he never expected to come across again.
'Why did this have to happen?!'
Nearing the place, Rukawa slowly halted and bended over, panting. After a minute or so, Rukawa finally breathed normally and stood straight. Surveying his surroundings, he saw no one that was familiar. Taking a deep breath, he sat on what used to be his favorite bench and looked around again.
'What will I do? No...no...What will I SAY?! What if she ask things that I can't answer- well, I can answer them, I think, but I cant give THOSE answer...!'
Rukawa shook his head and buried it between his hands, as if doing so would clear his mind. Then a light pressure on the bench indicated that someone sat beside him, he knew though whom it was...he remembers...its not that hard to forget...
"Hello Rukawa...any plans for the afternoon?"
"Yeah...I have a game..." He said softly.
"A game? That's nice...you finally made it then...can I watch?"
"Do you want to?" he said, still not looking.
"I'd love to."
"Okay..." He said, finally looking up.
-----------------------ruharu----------------------------
"And Shohoku leads- 76 to 75! What a superb game both teams are dishing out right now!"
Haruko was so busy jotting down the team statistics that she didn't understand what the announcer was saying. All she knows is that Shohoku had finally gain the lead after trailing for three quarters and that there was only two minutes left for the fourth. Nope, she doesn't recognize that Rukawa was having a major game…that he has scored 27 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals…nope she didn't recognize it.
Finally, Haruko managed to write down the numbers Ayako was telling her and had finally looked up to watch the game.
This was an important game. Shohoku versus Ryonan….it will determine the future of the league…who will go up as number two in the following games…who was next to Kainan. Everybody seems tired but no one was giving up. Even Akagi was panting hard and so is Ryonan's top scorer Akira Sendoh. And that's because Kaede Rukawa of Shohoku is guarding him.
"Probably the highlight of today's game is Sendoh's fantastic, as always, shooting and surprisingly, Shohoku's freshman Rukawa who has, as of now, 27 points and still on fire! With 1:36 remaining we can't tell who will win this game! And a steal by Sendoh!!"
"Ryonan! Ryonan! Ryonan!!"
Haruko watched as Sendoh easily dribbled his way towards the half court but was met by Rukawa around the three-point area to prevent him from shooting there.
"And yes, the showdown continues!" the announcer shouted making the fans scream more loudly if that was possible.
Sendoh fake to his right but Rukawa didn't bite it. Sendoh smiled at this, Rukawa had the perfect stance for defense, and he needs help. He called for a play that surprised the Shohoku team. Then out of nowhere, Ryonan's center Ouzumi was beside Rukawa, giving Sendoh a good pick. Sendoh took the opportunity and being faster than Akagi, he made a perfect lay up. Ryonan's crowd went wild.
"And it's back to Ryonan!!"
'1:23…I still have three points to go…' Rukawa thought.
A whistle was blown and Shohoku has called a time out.
"We'll be doing the 'shirt'…Miyagi, start the play with Rukawa being the receiver. You know the drill Rukawa…have Sakuragi post then-" Coach Anzai said but was interrupted by Hanamichi.
"Then I'll go for the winning shot by doing my fantastic slam dunk! Nyahahahahaha!!"
"QUIET!!" they all shouted.
"Jeez, I was just joking…" Hanamichi mumbled.
"Listen, Sakuragi will post up and you Rukawa will slide down to the opposite side using Akagi as your pick under the basket. The team will adjust to give you a better position and it will give you time to concentrate for a shot since your defender will be left behind. Go for it! They will guard Mitsui; he'll be the perfect decoy. Ready?"
"Shohoku fight!"
"And we resume the play! With 1:23 left, anything can still happen. But Shohoku needs to convert on this one. What does coach Anzai has in store for us?"
And so Ryota started to call for "shirt" and the team move to their position. Ryota passed the ball to Rukawa and he dribbled some time away…waiting for Hanamichi to make his move. When Hanamichi got a good position, Rukawa passed the ball to him and made his way under the basket using Akagi to block of his defender, it worked. Now all he need is to go to his position and wait for Mitsui to attract the Ryonan and for the ball to swing his way.
'There, they followed the decoy!' Rukawa thought excitedly.
"Mitsui!!" He shouted and Mitsui passed the ball towards him.
Rukawa caught it and was about to shoot the ball when he saw Sendoh coming his way. He thinks that Sendoh will reach him so he decided to fake his shot then go forward for a lay-up.
"No Rukawa! Shoot the ball! He's only faking his defense!" Coach Anzai shouted.
But it was too late; Sendoh had indeed faked his defense and was now facing Rukawa. 1:15 to go and Rukawa had only one thing in mind- offense. He dribbled his way out of Sendoh's tight defense…
"And a steal! Sendoh had stolen the ball!!"
"Oh no…" Haruko said, looking at Rukawa's stricken face. She remembered how much Rukawa wanted to win in something he loves and that's basketball…but now…
"Sendoh's now streaking the floor…a fast break! Who will stop him?!" the announcer shouted.
But Ryota was dashing down to defense and had reached Sendoh.
"Foul him! Ryota!!"
And so he did. The clock stopped to 1:05.
"Shohoku has 2 more foul to give before penalty." The referee said.
"Damnit!!" Rukawa said.
"Don't worry about it. We'll get them the next play." Akagi said.
And so Shohoku wisely used their remaining foul until they we're put to penalty with 21 seconds remaining. But the Ryonan knew this so they let Sendoh handle the ball. Unfortunately for Shohoku, Sendoh, who is Ryonan's top free throw shooter, will be on the line. The whole Shohoku team looked on…
Different cheers could be heard all over the gym…some were "Sendoh", or "Ryonan" or "boo's" and many more. But for Shohoku's Rukawa he hears nothing but his own breathing and Sendoh's…
'He'll miss…he'll miss….he'll miss…' He repeated over and over again.
And Sendoh. Ryonan's number one player missed his first charity.
The Shohoku team felt a huge wave of relief and it's supporter. But Sendoh made the second, giving his team a two point lead with 21 seconds remaining. With no time out left, Shohoku was forced to come up with a decision on what play they'll do next.
But there was no play for Shohoku. Everybody was unsure on what position to go and what passes to make. Sendoh was guarding Rukawa and there were two defenders floating around Mitsui. Hanamichi is lost with all the motion and Akagi was tightly guarded by Ouzumi at the middle. Leaving Ryota as the free player.
The clock was down to fifteen, Ryonan leading by two and Shohoku at lost for a good play.
'I have to do something!' Rukawa tried to fake Sendoh but he wouldn't budge.
Down to ten seconds.
Then Rukawa saw Hanamichi coming for him and he suddenly had an idea. Rukawa faked to his right and as he expected Sendoh didn't bought it. Then he suddenly dashed to his left with Sendoh right in front of him.
'I'll make it. It was my fault that they're leading now…I'll make it…I have to…27 points…'
Rukawa ran faster and Sendoh did also. Suddenly Rukawa made a ballerina like pirouette and Sendoh slam directly at Hanamichi who gave Rukawa a perfect pick.
"What a twirl! A perfect pick my Sakuragi!" the announcer shouted with excitement.
…8, 7, 6…
"Ryota!!", Rukawa shouted.
Ryota saw him and pass the ball.
…5, 4…
Rukawa caught it at the three-point area and elevated himself off the floor to avoid a desperate hand by one of the Ryonan's player. He flipped his wrist, doing a fade away and let the ball soar…
Silence…
The ball hit the ring then bounced off to the board then back to the ring…staying there for like a whole quarter before it decided to fall into the ring.
"YAAAAAAYYYYYY!!!" The Shohoku's fans shouted.
"We did it! We won!" Akagi shouted, hugging Ryota and Mitsui in the process.
The Shohoku player's were now pouring in on the floor.
"We won Rukawa! That was a perfect fade away! Rukawa!" Hanamichi shouted.
Haruko was elated. They won. Rukawa had 30 points. And he won the game for them. But where was he?
"Rukawa?!" Haruko shouted amidst the players and fans that we're celebrating.
"Rukawa?!!" Hanamichi shouted.
"He's here." Sendoh said.
And the whole team looked at him and at Rukawa who was down on the floor with his hand at his ankle. The team gasped and went at his side in an instant. But certainly not as fast as Haruko.
"Are you okay?! Where does it hurt?!" Haruko said in panic.
Rukawa did not answer her; he was still holding his ankle.
"Sakuragi, help me with Rukawa." Akagi said.
And the crowd looked on silently. The Shohoku team made their way towards the locker room and the crowd started to clap, calling out Rukawa's name. He was the Hero.
They put Rukawa down and Ayako and Haruko started to work on him. Haruko was silent as she took off Rukawa's shoes.
"Oh my gawd…" She said, as she saw his ankle starting to swell.
"That was a nice shot Rukawa. You won the game for us." Akagi said.
"Don't worry Rukawa…seems like it'll only take 2 weeks or three…" Mitsui said in his professional voice.
Rukawa actually gave a sigh of relief. Haruko can't help but smile. So he was thinking ho long his injury would last.
'He didn't want to stop playing.' She thought.
Rukawa seemed to lighten up with Mitsui's assurance and he started to enjoy the company and their victory.
"There you go. Patch things up. Haruko will finish the rest." Ayako winked at them.
"Oh you're the worst Ayako!" Haruko said. She just laughs and went to congratulate Ryota.
They remain there silently. Haruko attending to Rukawa's ankle and Rukawa watching Haruko work.
"30 points huh? You certainly kept your promise." Haruko said, not looking at Rukawa.
Rukawa just shrugged but he was smiling.
"Can't disappoint you…" he said softly.
"Rukawa…"
Whatever magic that was about to happen, Sakuragi interrupted it.
"Rukawa, someone's very worried about you." Sakuragi said in a singsong voice.
"Huh?" Rukawa wondered…
And before he could react, someone was at his side holding his ankle softly and asking…
"Does it hurt much?"
Rukawa looked stunned.
"Excuse me lady, but who are you?" Kogure inquired.
The lady smiled softly at Kogure and looked at Rukawa, expecting him to answer the question. Haruko, as well, looked at him to answer the question. Rukawa didn't know what to say…didn't know what to think. Just as things were getting better…
The girl, laughed softly, thinking that Rukawa was being shy. So she stood up and extended her arm towards Kogure and said…
"I'm Ruriko. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you all."
The team was dumb founded. Okay…but who was she to Rukawa?
Sakuragi, as always gave them the answer.
"She's his girlfriend!" He said teasingly at Rukawa
Never before did the locker room have become silent as now.
…took a long time ne? sorry peeps…I had a major dead end…^^
…but enways…I want to do this, I want to thank all those people who gave me a review…I updated because of you guys.^^ so thanks, so much!
…so what do you think? Im about to end this story…2 more I think…im about to start a new one. It'll be great, I promise. Do you want another RuHaru? The one im gona write is heavy drama, like chicken soup…know that book?^^…okay, til next time. Do a review!^^…hehehehehe….
Disclaimer: Slam Dunk belongs to Takehiko Inoue. I'm doing this to improve my creative writing. (shucks) Please don't sue me.
Authors Note: Hello there pips! This is my first attempt of a RuHaru fic. There's just so little of them out there...tsk, so depressing...I don't know how I'm going to pull this fic off, since I'm no writer...
**by the way, this is an AU fic. Rukawa is nicer, I mean NICER! And he's social, heck; he's even a journalist! At the top of all the good things...know what I'm saying?
CHAPTER 9: EVERYTHING BUT THE GIRL (part 2)
'Is he avoiding me...?'
Haruko threw another glance at Rukawa who was talking with the adviser of the Varsitarian; he seem to be trying to convince Ms. Hinako about god knows what...
It was a usual sight if you we're a member of the Varsitarian. School activities we're pouring in since the Christmas is near; different projects and events are popping here and there, giving the journalist a field a day.
To say that the staff was excited would be downright understatement. The staff we're buzzing around with excitement, trying to help each other or outdoing each other; one cannot say. Everybody wants to make a big impression on his or her readers- and of course...
"I hope Rukawa will like my article!!"
"Mine too!!"
"Nah, I'd rather have a little...*mumbling something*…Who knows, he might ask me if I need help and we'd hang-out together- just like what he did with Haruko! *sigh*"
Haruko sweatdroped. Not that she was surprised that they know. Rukawa IS popular after all. She had spent a lot of time (and willpower) denying that nothing was going on between her and *their* Rukawa. The news that they we're "going-out" with each other spread like mad! Haruko had almost had to deny on every girl she meets.
Haruko snap back to reality when she saw Rukawa making his way out of Ms. Hinako's office. Haruko quickly jump off her seat and went to meet him.
"Rukawa!!" Haruko called.
And for a moment there, Haruko thought she saw Rukawa tense-up, and hesitated. But Rukawa turns and faces her so Haruko dismissed the thought, thinking that she was the one who is tense-up and not he. Taking a deep breath, she made her way towards her object of confusion...
"Hey..." Rukawa said softly.
"Hey you..." Haruko said with equal softness.
"....."
"D-do you need anything?" Rukawa asked.
"Huh...?"
"Do you need anything? You called me remember?" Rukawa said, smiling at the same time.
"Oh...oh! Right.....! I was wondering if you'd like to check my article.... you know, you might find something offending or wrong.... with your standards." Haruko said jokingly.
That certainly lightens up the mood.
"I hope you're not doing it on purpose so you'll have a reason to hang out with me. I heard it's a popular tactic around." Rukawa teased, putting on a goofy grin and looking all but dorky.
Haruko felt her cheeks burning...
"What made you think...you....! Hello, there's a thing called gravity and I'm wondering how much effort it has to put up just to make sure you're still on the ground. And besides, as if you don't like hanging around with me also!" Haruko smiled devilishly...
That made Rukawa cringe.
"Oh I think someone's enjoying my company and won't admit it even in a life or death situation."
Rukawa became more silent than ever.
'I think I embarrassed him...' Haruko said, fidgeting around.
They stood awkwardly by the door, looking everywhere but each other.
'This is so stupid! I shouldn't be acting weird or he'll think that I...I..." Haruko can't finish the thought.
"So..." they said in unison.
"You first!" they said at the same time.
"Okay." and for the 3rd time.
They both stood silent, getting more and more uncomfortable. Rukawa shrugged then smile. Haruko gave in and smile back. Rukawa pointed at her, telling her that she can have a go. Haruko nodded.
"Okay. That's sooo weird! Anways, help me?" Haruko said trying hard not to sound too eager.
Rukawa was silent for a moment, and Haruko felt that Rukawa was thinking twice about it. She didn't know why but the knowledge that Rukawa was actually thinking twice about it gave her a sudden tightening in her chest...a sudden pain. Haruko just held her breath when Rukawa opened his mouth to speak...
"I'll give it- "
Rukawa was cut-off by the sudden ring of his mobile. Rukawa gave Haruko a small nod indicating that he's sorry but he has to take this call and Haruko nodded in understanding. Rukawa turned his back but didn't move and started to talk *quietly*.
Haruko couldn't hear a thing and it was making her crazy! She can see Rukawa nodding his head then shaking his head, and then nodding again.... it was making her dizzy. Then she notices the sudden drop of Rukawa's shoulder. She so wanted to ask what's wrong but she bit her lip and controlled herself. Rukawa nodded for the last time then pocketed his mobile. Sighing out loud, he turned to face Haruko, shaking his head.
"I'm sorry Haruko...but I really need to go."
"Oh...umm, another meeting?" Haruko said, not minding that she sound disappointed.
"Uh...yes, some kind of." Rukawa said, looking away.
Of course Haruko did not believe this but decided to leave it like that. Rukawa started to walk away before Haruko could ask more questions but before he could take a step Haruko had spoken.
"How about tomorrow?"
Rukawa wanted to, really.
But he shook his head, not stating his reason.
"Oh...okay..." Haruko look down at the floor, now trying to hide her DISAPPOINTMENT.
Rukawa's heart broke at the sight.
"I know you'll do okay! Ms. Hinako will be checking your articles so don't worry. I'll see you around, okay?" Rukawa said, trying to sound cheerful. Trying...
'I don't want her to check my article...I want you..." Haruko thought...
'...To check my article....' she added as an afterthought.
When Rukawa can't take the silence anymore, he did what any pureblooded male would do with the situation: he walked away.
"Wait Rukawa!" Haruko called.
Rukawa was having a major confusion onslaught but turn to face her anyway. Haruko on the other hand was having curiosity and panic onslaught but decided to go for it...or she would surely lose her sanity.
"Are...a-are you avoiding me?"
She can tell that Rukawa was caught by surprised but his eyes suddenly turned soft and Haruko had the sudden urge to caress his face. Rukawa turn his whole profile at her and gave her a small smile...
"No, I'm not avoiding you, I'll never do that. I just.... just really need to go."
'What a lie Rukawa...you're so good at it.... making Haruko believe that you're not avoiding her.' Rukawa thought.
He wanted to take back his words. He knew that Haruko didn't believe him, and she was going to ask why...he knows...cause he's a journalist too...and journalist ask many questions...and they tend to bring out the truth...and that scares him...Haruko might found out that...that...
'That what?! What?!!' Rukawa shouted in silence.
But to his surprise, Haruko just smiled at him.
"Oh well, it must be really important, passing up an opportunity to spend time with me. Must be something big huh?" Haruko teased.
Rukawa could only smile. He love this girl!
'Right, cause she's being nice and she's being a good and understanding friend.' he thought.
But Rukawa knows...he can feel it.... she can't hide it...
"Yeah, it is." He said.
"More important than me the..." she teased more.
"Not more important than you." He said seriously that Haruko was taken aback.
And for a moment, Rukawa panicked but managed to still lighten the mood.
"But as for the moment it is...just this moment." He smiled.
"I'll take your word for it." She smiled back.
It was settled then...
"So...I'll see you around then..." Haruko said.
"Definitely..." Rukawa said, starting to walk backwards toward the exit.
"At the game?" Haruko said, now smiling broadly.
"I'll do a 30 for you, in exchange for this." He said and that really got her smiling.
Haruko nodded and Rukawa waved and ran.
'30...that's nice Rukawa, but that's not I want...'
And before she could think what she wants from him, she turn her back and went to her working table only to find a number of inquiring gazes directed at her and some dreamy ones towards the last spot that Rukawa had stand. Haruko just rolled her eye's and shook her head clearly saying that, 'no, its not what you think' and made her way without talking to anyone. That's the time she notice that the room suddenly went back to it's buzzing noise of excitement. She sighed and asked herself how come everything stops when Rukawa is around...
'How silly...I EXACTLY know why...'
-----------------------ruharu----------------------------
Rukawa run as fast as his athletic legs can. He wanted to run away from inquiring gazes of the staff, he wanted to run away from the room, but most, he wanted to run away from Haruko's hurt expression.
'Damnit, damnit.... damnit!!'
Rukawa run towards a destination he never expected to come across again.
'Why did this have to happen?!'
Nearing the place, Rukawa slowly halted and bended over, panting. After a minute or so, Rukawa finally breathed normally and stood straight. Surveying his surroundings, he saw no one that was familiar. Taking a deep breath, he sat on what used to be his favorite bench and looked around again.
'What will I do? No...no...What will I SAY?! What if she ask things that I can't answer- well, I can answer them, I think, but I cant give THOSE answer...!'
Rukawa shook his head and buried it between his hands, as if doing so would clear his mind. Then a light pressure on the bench indicated that someone sat beside him, he knew though whom it was...he remembers...its not that hard to forget...
"Hello Rukawa...any plans for the afternoon?"
"Yeah...I have a game..." He said softly.
"A game? That's nice...you finally made it then...can I watch?"
"Do you want to?" he said, still not looking.
"I'd love to."
"Okay..." He said, finally looking up.
-----------------------ruharu----------------------------
"And Shohoku leads- 76 to 75! What a superb game both teams are dishing out right now!"
Haruko was so busy jotting down the team statistics that she didn't understand what the announcer was saying. All she knows is that Shohoku had finally gain the lead after trailing for three quarters and that there was only two minutes left for the fourth. Nope, she doesn't recognize that Rukawa was having a major game…that he has scored 27 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, 9 assists, and 2 steals…nope she didn't recognize it.
Finally, Haruko managed to write down the numbers Ayako was telling her and had finally looked up to watch the game.
This was an important game. Shohoku versus Ryonan….it will determine the future of the league…who will go up as number two in the following games…who was next to Kainan. Everybody seems tired but no one was giving up. Even Akagi was panting hard and so is Ryonan's top scorer Akira Sendoh. And that's because Kaede Rukawa of Shohoku is guarding him.
"Probably the highlight of today's game is Sendoh's fantastic, as always, shooting and surprisingly, Shohoku's freshman Rukawa who has, as of now, 27 points and still on fire! With 1:36 remaining we can't tell who will win this game! And a steal by Sendoh!!"
"Ryonan! Ryonan! Ryonan!!"
Haruko watched as Sendoh easily dribbled his way towards the half court but was met by Rukawa around the three-point area to prevent him from shooting there.
"And yes, the showdown continues!" the announcer shouted making the fans scream more loudly if that was possible.
Sendoh fake to his right but Rukawa didn't bite it. Sendoh smiled at this, Rukawa had the perfect stance for defense, and he needs help. He called for a play that surprised the Shohoku team. Then out of nowhere, Ryonan's center Ouzumi was beside Rukawa, giving Sendoh a good pick. Sendoh took the opportunity and being faster than Akagi, he made a perfect lay up. Ryonan's crowd went wild.
"And it's back to Ryonan!!"
'1:23…I still have three points to go…' Rukawa thought.
A whistle was blown and Shohoku has called a time out.
"We'll be doing the 'shirt'…Miyagi, start the play with Rukawa being the receiver. You know the drill Rukawa…have Sakuragi post then-" Coach Anzai said but was interrupted by Hanamichi.
"Then I'll go for the winning shot by doing my fantastic slam dunk! Nyahahahahaha!!"
"QUIET!!" they all shouted.
"Jeez, I was just joking…" Hanamichi mumbled.
"Listen, Sakuragi will post up and you Rukawa will slide down to the opposite side using Akagi as your pick under the basket. The team will adjust to give you a better position and it will give you time to concentrate for a shot since your defender will be left behind. Go for it! They will guard Mitsui; he'll be the perfect decoy. Ready?"
"Shohoku fight!"
"And we resume the play! With 1:23 left, anything can still happen. But Shohoku needs to convert on this one. What does coach Anzai has in store for us?"
And so Ryota started to call for "shirt" and the team move to their position. Ryota passed the ball to Rukawa and he dribbled some time away…waiting for Hanamichi to make his move. When Hanamichi got a good position, Rukawa passed the ball to him and made his way under the basket using Akagi to block of his defender, it worked. Now all he need is to go to his position and wait for Mitsui to attract the Ryonan and for the ball to swing his way.
'There, they followed the decoy!' Rukawa thought excitedly.
"Mitsui!!" He shouted and Mitsui passed the ball towards him.
Rukawa caught it and was about to shoot the ball when he saw Sendoh coming his way. He thinks that Sendoh will reach him so he decided to fake his shot then go forward for a lay-up.
"No Rukawa! Shoot the ball! He's only faking his defense!" Coach Anzai shouted.
But it was too late; Sendoh had indeed faked his defense and was now facing Rukawa. 1:15 to go and Rukawa had only one thing in mind- offense. He dribbled his way out of Sendoh's tight defense…
"And a steal! Sendoh had stolen the ball!!"
"Oh no…" Haruko said, looking at Rukawa's stricken face. She remembered how much Rukawa wanted to win in something he loves and that's basketball…but now…
"Sendoh's now streaking the floor…a fast break! Who will stop him?!" the announcer shouted.
But Ryota was dashing down to defense and had reached Sendoh.
"Foul him! Ryota!!"
And so he did. The clock stopped to 1:05.
"Shohoku has 2 more foul to give before penalty." The referee said.
"Damnit!!" Rukawa said.
"Don't worry about it. We'll get them the next play." Akagi said.
And so Shohoku wisely used their remaining foul until they we're put to penalty with 21 seconds remaining. But the Ryonan knew this so they let Sendoh handle the ball. Unfortunately for Shohoku, Sendoh, who is Ryonan's top free throw shooter, will be on the line. The whole Shohoku team looked on…
Different cheers could be heard all over the gym…some were "Sendoh", or "Ryonan" or "boo's" and many more. But for Shohoku's Rukawa he hears nothing but his own breathing and Sendoh's…
'He'll miss…he'll miss….he'll miss…' He repeated over and over again.
And Sendoh. Ryonan's number one player missed his first charity.
The Shohoku team felt a huge wave of relief and it's supporter. But Sendoh made the second, giving his team a two point lead with 21 seconds remaining. With no time out left, Shohoku was forced to come up with a decision on what play they'll do next.
But there was no play for Shohoku. Everybody was unsure on what position to go and what passes to make. Sendoh was guarding Rukawa and there were two defenders floating around Mitsui. Hanamichi is lost with all the motion and Akagi was tightly guarded by Ouzumi at the middle. Leaving Ryota as the free player.
The clock was down to fifteen, Ryonan leading by two and Shohoku at lost for a good play.
'I have to do something!' Rukawa tried to fake Sendoh but he wouldn't budge.
Down to ten seconds.
Then Rukawa saw Hanamichi coming for him and he suddenly had an idea. Rukawa faked to his right and as he expected Sendoh didn't bought it. Then he suddenly dashed to his left with Sendoh right in front of him.
'I'll make it. It was my fault that they're leading now…I'll make it…I have to…27 points…'
Rukawa ran faster and Sendoh did also. Suddenly Rukawa made a ballerina like pirouette and Sendoh slam directly at Hanamichi who gave Rukawa a perfect pick.
"What a twirl! A perfect pick my Sakuragi!" the announcer shouted with excitement.
…8, 7, 6…
"Ryota!!", Rukawa shouted.
Ryota saw him and pass the ball.
…5, 4…
Rukawa caught it at the three-point area and elevated himself off the floor to avoid a desperate hand by one of the Ryonan's player. He flipped his wrist, doing a fade away and let the ball soar…
Silence…
The ball hit the ring then bounced off to the board then back to the ring…staying there for like a whole quarter before it decided to fall into the ring.
"YAAAAAAYYYYYY!!!" The Shohoku's fans shouted.
"We did it! We won!" Akagi shouted, hugging Ryota and Mitsui in the process.
The Shohoku player's were now pouring in on the floor.
"We won Rukawa! That was a perfect fade away! Rukawa!" Hanamichi shouted.
Haruko was elated. They won. Rukawa had 30 points. And he won the game for them. But where was he?
"Rukawa?!" Haruko shouted amidst the players and fans that we're celebrating.
"Rukawa?!!" Hanamichi shouted.
"He's here." Sendoh said.
And the whole team looked at him and at Rukawa who was down on the floor with his hand at his ankle. The team gasped and went at his side in an instant. But certainly not as fast as Haruko.
"Are you okay?! Where does it hurt?!" Haruko said in panic.
Rukawa did not answer her; he was still holding his ankle.
"Sakuragi, help me with Rukawa." Akagi said.
And the crowd looked on silently. The Shohoku team made their way towards the locker room and the crowd started to clap, calling out Rukawa's name. He was the Hero.
They put Rukawa down and Ayako and Haruko started to work on him. Haruko was silent as she took off Rukawa's shoes.
"Oh my gawd…" She said, as she saw his ankle starting to swell.
"That was a nice shot Rukawa. You won the game for us." Akagi said.
"Don't worry Rukawa…seems like it'll only take 2 weeks or three…" Mitsui said in his professional voice.
Rukawa actually gave a sigh of relief. Haruko can't help but smile. So he was thinking ho long his injury would last.
'He didn't want to stop playing.' She thought.
Rukawa seemed to lighten up with Mitsui's assurance and he started to enjoy the company and their victory.
"There you go. Patch things up. Haruko will finish the rest." Ayako winked at them.
"Oh you're the worst Ayako!" Haruko said. She just laughs and went to congratulate Ryota.
They remain there silently. Haruko attending to Rukawa's ankle and Rukawa watching Haruko work.
"30 points huh? You certainly kept your promise." Haruko said, not looking at Rukawa.
Rukawa just shrugged but he was smiling.
"Can't disappoint you…" he said softly.
"Rukawa…"
Whatever magic that was about to happen, Sakuragi interrupted it.
"Rukawa, someone's very worried about you." Sakuragi said in a singsong voice.
"Huh?" Rukawa wondered…
And before he could react, someone was at his side holding his ankle softly and asking…
"Does it hurt much?"
Rukawa looked stunned.
"Excuse me lady, but who are you?" Kogure inquired.
The lady smiled softly at Kogure and looked at Rukawa, expecting him to answer the question. Haruko, as well, looked at him to answer the question. Rukawa didn't know what to say…didn't know what to think. Just as things were getting better…
The girl, laughed softly, thinking that Rukawa was being shy. So she stood up and extended her arm towards Kogure and said…
"I'm Ruriko. Nice to meet you. Nice to meet you all."
The team was dumb founded. Okay…but who was she to Rukawa?
Sakuragi, as always gave them the answer.
"She's his girlfriend!" He said teasingly at Rukawa
Never before did the locker room have become silent as now.
…took a long time ne? sorry peeps…I had a major dead end…^^
…but enways…I want to do this, I want to thank all those people who gave me a review…I updated because of you guys.^^ so thanks, so much!
…so what do you think? Im about to end this story…2 more I think…im about to start a new one. It'll be great, I promise. Do you want another RuHaru? The one im gona write is heavy drama, like chicken soup…know that book?^^…okay, til next time. Do a review!^^…hehehehehe….