Melting into the warmth that Sakuno's kiss brought, Ryoma lost control over his hands and caressed her scalp while keeping the momentum of their mouths. Sakuno felt the gentle massage of his hands on her head, which sent electricity all over her body. Then after a while, his hands slid down to her waist and squeezed it. She let out a moan as she continued to kiss him passionately. She didn't know why but Sakuno had full control of the situation as she gradually pushed Ryoma down on the sofa that he momentarily broke off from her lips and sat down. Sakuno looked at his startled face, the room got so dark that his eyes shone from the city lights outside the balcony. His heavy breathing was loud. Sakuno sat down beside him, and they stared at each other for a moment before Ryoma pulled her into another kiss.
Ryoma surrendered to Sakuno that night. He let her taste every bit of his mouth, every part of his face. Even though he lightly shivered, he let Sakuno reach inside his shirt and engulfed him into an embrace. He didn't understand what came over the girl, but he was too intoxicated by her actions that he did not bother to stop her. Looking back on their Seigaku days, Sakuno has been the shyest girl he has ever met. Whenever they were together, she would sometimes strike up a conversation about anything. He only listened, sometimes he would respond but most of the time, she talks, he listens. Throughout their relationship (barely a friendship, if they would describe it), the other was their comfort zone whenever something goes wrong. And seeing her one day in New York, Ryoma was glad to know that his favorite person has found him again.
He would heal from all the depression he was facing as long as she's here.
Finally.
Sakuno didn't understand what came over her suddenly. She felt like a full-grown woman when she kissed Ryoma. She surrendered herself to him. She was willing to give him everything about her as long as it was him. As Ryoma pulled her to another kiss, she felt complete, that this is where she belongs. Her lips travelled from his lips to his cheeks. She felt him shiver from the sensation that her actions were sending. She didn't waver and continued.
It was Ryoma, for God's sake.
She loved him ever since she saw him. It started with being a fan of him since he's basically the best tennis player she had ever met. Then, admiration turned into crush. She and Tomoka referred to it as 'puppy love' which is supposed to last for like a year, but her affection developed as years go by. Even though Ryoma left for America, she didn't lose hope to see him again. She never fell in love with another guy, it has always been him. And now that this moment has arrived, where she genuinely feels that the prince is returning her feelings, she wanted him to feel loved and protected. She wants to send a message that she devotes her whole self to him forever. Nothing matters anymore. As long as it's him.
Just then, Ryoma's phone started ringing. Both of them froze. Sakuno took this time to catch her breath. She was still sitting on Ryoma's other leg and her arms were wrapped on his torso. Ryoma turned his head and looked at the screen. He squinted to see the caller's name, but he couldn't read it. Noticing this, Sakuno slowly got off of him and sat properly. She could feel her face burn hot. There was an awkward silence between them, only the ringing echoed through his dorm.
Ryoma pulled down his shirt and reached for his phone by the coffee table. It was Dennis. He contemplated if he should answer it. Whenever Dennis calls, he would talk for hours, and Ryoma would listen or sometimes he would put it on speakerphone and would just grunt to let Dennis know he's still there. He's a good friend. Just a little clingy sometimes.
"It's okay. You can answer it." Sakuno said in a shy voice. Ryoma watched her fiddle on her fingers as she avoids his eyes.
Ryoma nodded and tapped the screen.
"What?" he said with a hint of annoyance.
"Whoa, why're you grumpy? Is it a bad time? I got something I want to talk to you about." Dennis said.
Sakuno, not wanting to eavesdrop on their conversation, excused herself and went into the bedroom. Ryoma sighed. It's a bad time, alright.
"What is it, Dennis? Make it quick." he said impatiently.
"Well, I know you and Emily broke up, but my conscience just can't take it." he started.
"Okay..." Ryoma said. Even though he doesn't care about her anymore, there was still a hint of uneasiness as he waited for Dennis to continue.
"Okay, here it is. I kind of set up Emily on a date with my friend Justin... I'm sorry."
"Emily went on a date with a guy? Well, okay. We broke up so I don't really care."
"I know, but it actually happened before you broke up... I'm sorry! It's just, I felt bad for her that she's being paranoid over you. So, I tried to make her feel better and all..."
Ryoma was quiet for a moment. So, she did that. Alright. At least he knows that she's not going to be alone from now on. He can finally be free from her. But why does his chest feel like something is squeezing it? Ryoma remembered how he met her. He almost saw Sakuno in her, except that she's more talkative. He wondered how they ended up together, and how he loved her one day, then overtime, he was forced to finish things with her.
Ryoma had just finished his training with other athletes. He sat down on one of the benches and grabbed his water bottle. A girl stared down at him from the second floor. She eyed the prince as he desperately catches his breath. He dug into his bag to search for a towel, but he actually forgot to bring one. Ryoma sighed. This day could not be worse. He's been having a hard time keeping up with the other members all day since he got busy with academic activities. It did not help that it was their periodic exam, and the competition is about a month away. He was getting stressed with all the things going on around him.
"Here." A girl handed him a white towel. She smiled. Ryoma looked at her, trying to remember if she's his classmate from one of his classes.
"I'm Emily. We don't know each other but I figured you needed this." she said. Ryoma accepted the towel and muttered a simple thanks. Emily stared at him. He was seriously good-looking. His eyes were sharp, white skin, pointed nose, and messy hair. Totally the type of guy Emily would be interested in.
"Is that all?" he said. "Then go." He turned away but instantly regretted being in a bad mood.
Nope, not my type.
"Yeah. Bye, snob." She rolled her eyes. What a snob guy. Just because he's a little bit good-looking!
As she walked away, Ryoma watched her. The towel smelled good. Possibly the only good thing that happened today, he thought. He suddenly felt bad.
Ryoma scratched his head. This is why he doesn't want to interact with anyone especially girls because he gets cranky and snobbish every time. It's not like he wants to be like this. Anyone who studies engineering and trying to become an athlete at the same time would definitely have these kinds of off days. God, he's so tired.
Ryoma thought of apologizing to the girl but she's nowhere in sight and he doesn't even remember her name. He shrugged and continued to wrap the towel on his neck while he sip on his water.
The next day, Ryoma had Physics class. He didn't have enough sleep so he decided to grab a cup of coffee on the way to school. He entered the coffee shop and lined up at the cashier. He was staring at the girl in front of him. Oddly, there was something familiar about her that he couldn't pinpoint.
After a while, it was his turn to order.
"One iced Americano on the go. Thanks." He handed his credit card to the cashier and she proceeded to make the transaction.
"Please take a seat while we prepare your order." she smiled.
He sat on of the sofa and waited for his order. He watched the barista move skillfully in making his coffee. But was immediately bored with that so he decided to play on his phone.
One notification: Line
Line? Oh, yeah. I have that app to contact Nanako and mom.
He opened the notification and saw that there was someone who messaged him.
Dennis Henry: Hi! I'm your classmate from Engineering class. I was wondering if you're free this afternoon. We're having a party at the dorm's rooftop.
Ryoma squinted his eyes. Definitely don't remember anyone named Dennis. But he prepared to reply since he doesn't want to appear snob like yesterday.
Ryoma Echizen: Sorry. Busy with studies.
He saw that Dennis is online and is typing. He sighed. When is his coffee going to be ready?
Dennis Henry: Come on! It's not gonna take long, and if you become bored, you can take off!
That's a nice offer. I can just drop by for a few minutes, then leave before it gets dark. That way, he won't think that I'm a snob. Damn, I want to sleep early.
Ryoma Echizen: Okay.
"Sir Ryoma! Your iced Americano is ready."
He stood up and was about to walk towards the counter when he noticed a girl sitting alone on one of the sofa. She was the girl in front of him earlier, and the same girl from yesterday, Ryoma realized. He quickly grabbed his coffee and headed towards her.
"Uh, hey." he said awkwardly. Emily looked up and was surprised to see Ryoma.
"Oh, you're from yesterday." she blinked. She wondered why he suddenly approached her.
"I, uh, sorry about yesterday and um, thanks for the towel." he awkwardly rubbed his nape, unable to look at Emily's eyes.
Her lips formed a soft smile.
"It's fine. Thanks. Would you like to sit with me?" she offered. Ryoma complied and took a seat in front of her.
"I didn't expect to see you here so I didn't bring the towel with me." he sipped on his coffee.
"Oh, that's alright." she took a sip on her hot coffee as well.
"No, I insist. It's yours."
"Well, okay. Then, have my number."
Ryoma blinked. Emily blushed.
"No, um, I mean you can text me when you're ready to return the towel."
"Uh, okay." he pulled out his phone and handed it to Emily.
They exchanged phone numbers. Emily is talkative, even more talkative than Tomoka, Ryoma noted, so they spent a few minutes talking to each other even though she's really the only one talking, Ryoma barely answered. After a while, Ryoma bid goodbye since he still has Physics class to attend to. Emily waved to the prince until he exited the coffee shop.
Back in school, Dennis smiled.
"Okay, I've invited everyone in our class. I'm so happy!" he exclaimed. Dennis is a social butterfly, as stated by his friends. He would organize parties every after exams to let out stress and just relax. He would invite everyone even if they're not close. As long as he can get their contact information from other students. He admits it's a bit creepy, but he wants to have as many friends and connections as possible during his time in university.
"Hey, dude! Glad you could come!"
Ryoma had just arrived at the designated place where the party is being held. He wore a simple white shirt with a red jacket protecting him from the cold air on the rooftop, faded jeans and sneakers.
Dennis ushered him to sit with the other guys. There were a few girls, too. He grabbed a soda from the cooler and drank while the others had all kinds of alcoholic drinks. He had never tasted liquor before, and he never plans to. However, the other girls soon started sitting beside him and inviting him to drink a few shots. He was sure that they were already drunk, and it was only six in the evening. Dennis saw that Ryoma is obviously uncomfortable but is politely rejecting the girls so he grabbed him, and they went to a separate table.
"Sorry about that. They're going to leave soon, I'm sure." he smiled at him.
"Thanks." he finished his soda and grabbed another one. Dennis chuckled.
"You're not used to these kinds of events, huh?"
"Uh, no."
"You'll get used to it."
They hung out until late at night. There was karaoke, more drinking, and barbeque. Ryoma was actually enjoying the night that he did not notice that he was already drinking a few beers.
I'm getting drunk. Better go home before I get sleepy.
He prepared himself to stand up but was too dizzy. Suddenly, a girl helped him get off the sofa and they started climbing down the fire escape. Ryoma blinked rapidly to clear up his vision. He has no idea who the girl is but is thankful since he got out of the building safely.
"Where do you live?" she said. Ryoma's sight was too hazy to recognize the girl. He pointed to the nearby building where his dorm is.
"Okay, let's get you home then." she smiled.
"I'll leave this bowl for when you want to hurl."
Ryoma suddenly opened his eyes. He found himself lying on his sofa, the lights are off, only a single lampshade is on, and there she was, kneeling in front of him.
"Hmm, who are you?"
"I'm Emily! With the towel? Please tell me you remember me." she pouted. Ryoma sat up and rubbed his eyes.
"Oh, okay. What're you doing here?"
"You were too drunk to go home so I helped you. Good thing your house key has your dorm number printed on it."
Emily stood up and turned on the kitchen lights. She prepared coffee for the two of them. Ryoma glanced at the clock. It read three in the morning.
Who would have thought he would have a girl over at three in the morning...
"Thanks." he said when Emily handed him his coffee.
They chatted that night. Almost all of the people who knew him assumed that he was deprived of human emotions, but he realized that Emily definitely tugged on his heart. Whenever he would feel pressured from tennis tournaments and academics, Emily would be there to comfort him. There was something in her that made him feel loved. They were together for more than three years and it made him happy despite the challenges his life has to offer.
But then, something changed in her. With all the attention and fame that came with Ryoma's existence at university, Emily became overprotective and strict to him. Ryoma thought that she only did it because she loves him but there came a time where he wasn't even allowed to call anyone from Japan. Not even his own mother which pushed Ryoma on the verge of depression. He tried to understand her to the point where he lost all sight of who he was.
"So, that was before we even broke up, then?" he asked with a flat voice.
"Y-Yeah..." Dennis nervously answered.
"Okay. Got it."
Before Dennis could retort, Ryoma had ended the call.
The bedroom door creaked open. Ryoma stared at Sakuno. His body felt like it was going to break. He felt more tired than when playing tennis. All kinds of thoughts bombarded his brain.
Sakuno walked towards him and embraced him tightly.
"I'm so tired, Ryuzaki." he said in a sad tone.
"Is it about Emily?" she asked. Upon hearing this, Ryoma pulled back.
"You... know her?" he asked. Sakuno gulped.
"Um... yeah. I-I know her, we have classes together with Dennis..." she watched Ryoma's expression turn from confused to a completely blank one.
"I-I didn't mean to hear your conversation but I wanted to tell you about this all day..." she fidgeted on her fingers.
"Oh, so you three were friends." he sighed. "No big deal. Stop being nervous." he tapped her by the shoulders and took a seat on the sofa.
"Can I ask why you broke up?" she carefully inquired. Ryoma sighed.
"Cheated on me. And now I find out that it was Dennis who set them up." he closed his eyes. He tried to stop his lips form quivering. It was the last thing he wanted Sakuno to see.
"So that's why..." she looked at Ryoma with concern. It was hurting her to witness such a weakened state of him. She realized that Ryoma still cares for Emily. But he must be feeling betrayed by her and his friend. She can't imagine the toll on his emotional state.
"Um... If it makes you feel better, even though Emily had dated Justin, she said that it didn't go well, they were practically cat and mouse in class." she forced a smile on her face. She must keep herself strong for Ryoma. She declared to help him all the way and she's determined to do it.
"Wait," Ryoma opened his eyes. "You knew about it?"
"Yes, she told me." Sakuno confessed.
"Hmm, got it." he stood up and paced around the living room. Sakuno watched him.
"A-Are you alright, Ryoma-kun?"
"Is that why you came on to me?" he stopped in front of her.
"What? No, no. I wanted to help you-"
"Just like any other girl, eh?" he chuckled. Sakuno was confused. Did she say something wrong? She didn't understand. Is Ryoma laughing or is he angry? For some reason, he became unsettled all of a sudden.
Ryoma was furious inside. He was still learning to express himself, but this kind of emotion was too hard to let out, especially in front of Sakuno. However, Ryoma had decided this to be the last time he will ever talk to anyone.
"You had your way with me knowing that my ex-girlfriend cheated on me with a guy that my best friend set her up with while I was in a vulnerable state. You didn't even tell me. And you know what he said? It was because Emily was paranoid over me that he cheered her up. How does that sound to you? It sounds to me like it's supposed to be my fault they did that," his breathing was irregular, and his hands were shaking.
Sakuno was horrified with how Ryoma looked as he poured his feelings to her. He was visibly mad. His eyes were almost red as he suppressed his tears.
"R-Ryoma-kun, no! I didn't mean to make you feel that way. You're overreacting!" she tried to interrupt him, but he wasn't listening anymore.
"It's just too funny, Ryuzaki. My ex-girlfriend, my best friend, and you... fooled me." he grabbed his house key, jacket and cap and stormed out of his own house.
Sakuno stood in the middle of the living room, tears streaming down her face.
TBC.
A/N: It has been a long break from this story. So, I wrote an extra-long chapter. In this chapter though, I wanted to portray Ryoma's pent-up feelings about his life and the people around him. Some might not understand his sudden burst at the last part of this chapter but yeah, he felt betrayed so yeah. See, me neither.
