Sakuragi looks back at her with a look of consideration. His hands on his pocket and his short hair swaying along with the wind. His boyish but mature face looks beautiful in an innocent way. His eyes gazing at her with sadness. It's almost funnily uncanny how the orange hue of the sunset and the calmer splash of waves reflect the light on his face. It's a peaceful sight for her and she can't help but move closer towards him. He no longer gets beat red or a fumbling idiot with her presence. It seems he has made his mind up as he leans his head back in a relaxed manner.
"What is it Sakuragi-kun?" This time she makes sure to give them proper distance, respecting his personal space. She puts his hand on his back while she fiddles with it to distract her from the fact that the boy he loves is willing to even take her feelings into consideration. Now that they're alone she forces herself not to feel giddy, because, even before Sakuragi answers she knows what to expect and setting her hopes higher will only make her greedy and more heartbroken in the end.
"Cheryl-san thank you for being honest—you've given me a lot to think about." Sakuragi smiles sadly at her which causes a lump to form on her throat. She swallows her stomach giving her butterflies.
"And I am grateful for the effort you put for me. But I—" Sakuragi pauses, he faces Cheryl with resolve.
"I can't lie when you've done the opposite." Cheryl feels the wetness forming in her eyes, struggling to hold back the tears from welling up, she bites her lips in a desperate attempt to suppress her emotions, she felt the bittersweet ache deep within her heart. Sakuragi's no fool and he notices it which makes him hesitate.
He knows how it truly really feels to be rejected, and how painful it can be. In his heart, he understood the profound unfairness of choosing to appease others with comforting lies, shielding them from the harsh truth that would inevitably inflict temporary agony. For he knew, all too well, the damage done when deceit lures one into believing they are wanted and cherished, only to discover the stark reality of unrequited love. The girls who had rejected him had unwittingly opened his eyes to this painful truth.
"Please continue on, Sakuragi-kun," she whispered, her lips trembling and voice cracking. Despite her vulnerable state, she forced a warm smile, masking the acceptance in her eyes. Stunned, Sakuragi froze momentarily, but as a seagull soared above him, he collects himself.
Sakuragi and Cheryl share a meaningful look, filled with acceptance and maturity.
"I'm sorry," Sakuragi whispered, his voice heavy. "But I can't reciprocate the love you have for me." As he spoke, a sad smile curled at the corners of Cheryl's lips, a serene acceptance twinkling in her eyes.
"Thank you for telling the truth." Sakuragi doesn't say anything but he reaches his hand to gently pull Cheryl's head to rest on his shoulder. It doesn't take long for her to whimper and cry softly in Sakuragi's embrace. She clenches onto his shirt and leans into his warmth and comfort. Knowing that this might be the last time she'll be able to touch him like this again. She recalls the first time she was in his arms and it was at the school. Her hold tightens on him as she wishes for more, but she knows it's not her place. Sakuragi soothingly rubs his back. A gesture his mother used to do that calmed him down in his worst moment. Cheryl leans closer to his neck and the red-head feels the ticklish brush of her brown wavy hair. He rests his head on her and encloses his arms on her smaller frame. Cheryl sniffs and hugs him back the gesture helps calm her. With no words to exchange at the moment they communicate with silence. They rest in each other's presence with content.
As the clock strikes 5 in the afternoon, Anzai guides a bewildered Kogure towards the picturesque beach house they have booked for the night. Oblivious to the true nature of their visit, Kogure obediently follows his sensei, assuming they are simply paying a visit to friends or family of their coach. Little does he know, a wave of surprise crashes over him as the members of Shohoku, accompanied by some of Kainan, Shoyo, Ryonan, and even Sakuragi's gang and Haruko's friends, suddenly appear before him, making him fall back unceremoniously on the stone pavement leading to the house.
"HAPPY BIRTHDAY KOGURE!!!!" They shout in unison which surprises Coach Anzai because of the additional faces in front of him but he immediately laughs at them heartily.
Kogure's voice trembles as he stutters, "Y-you guys..." Overwhelmed with a deep sense of gratitude, he looks up at them, tears glistening in his eyes. With a contented sigh, he summons the strength to rise and faces them directly.
"You didn't have to do this." The vice captain smiles. Ryota and Mitsui approach him with a cheerful look.
"Of course we should!" Ryota exclaimed, flashing a bright grin as he playfully donned a party hat. Mitsui, joining in on the excitement, enthusiastically blasted a party horn right beside him, causing Ryota to instinctively shield his ears from the sudden burst of noise.
Each of them personally greets him, bearing thoughtful gifts. Some even express that their mere presence is a gift in itself. However, regardless of their intentions—whether they are here to enjoy the free food or simply hold deep respect for Shohoku to stay—he graciously thanks each and every one of them for being part of the gathering.
While the singing and greetings are finished. They wait for the drinks to get served from none other than an unhappy Kiyota who was forced to help out as a punishment for his actions earlier by Maki. Kogure also learns that something eventful happened before his arrival. From Sakuragi having an admirer and almost all of the people in the party getting involved and making it chaotic. The people that were left at the house also knew what occurred. Apparently both of them haven't returned yet and it's been 40 minutes now.
"It's odd. They still aren't back yet." Hikoichi says while he happily sips a yellowish mocktail.
"You don't think they're... " Ryota pauses with suspicioun on his voice. Ayako slaps his fan on his head in anger.
"What kind of things are you thinking anyway?!" She scolds Ryota. Thankfully Maki's on the other side with the captains talking about the incoming Inter High and Winter tournaments. If he knew he would have gotten furious at him for thinking ill-thoughts that involved his cousin.
"I wonder...? Do you think it went well?" Kogure asks.
"There's your answer." Mitsui stares at the two approaching the party. The people on his table immediately look back.
"It's Sakuragi-kun!" Everyone drops whatever they're doing to look at the direction Hikoichi's pointing. Sakuragi silently walks behind Cheryl, casting a sheepish glance at Haruko. Caught in the moment, Cheryl responded with a bashful smile at everyone.
The gundam and Ryota don't waste any time to ask how it went. Cheryl and Sakuragi exchanged determined nods.
Cheryl tells everyone the truth but not all of it. They leave out the part about Haruko to avoid any more conflict and it resulted in some mixed feelings. Some are mostly angry at Sakuragi and they end up arguing with him. Cheryl reassures all is good with the girls. The more mature of them just shake their head in exhaustion and relief for the matter is resolved peacefully. Meaning nobody's throwing chairs and brawling. Although it might be possible with Sakuragi, Kiyota, Ryota, and Mitsui arguing with each other at the moment. Hikoichi is his usual self, trying to record everything in his book. Rukawa, even though his silent can't help but release a relieved sigh. When he said to Sakuragi 'don't screw up' he means not pulling Cheryl into his life. He knows how well Sakuragi's stubborn nature and obsession with Haruko will only end up hurting Cheryl. He stands up and walks towards the noisy players and stops beside them.
"More morons." He shrugs which angers them and their attention is now on him.
"Rukawa! You tricky fox! Always acting like you're better than anybody else!"
"Shut your mouth! I Kainan's ace will make sure you eat your words if I meet you at court again!"
"You don't really know how to respect your seniors! You arrogant brat!"
"Damn you! Just because you have many girls fawning over you doesn't mean you can look down on us!"
They shout at him in anger but he ignores them as usual. The others just shake their heads at them, not wanting to deal with the rambunctious crew they continue on with what they're doing. The captains discuss strategy and get's some insight from Coach Anzai. Kogure and Hikoichi goes inside to help prepare the food for dinner later. The girls are either happy or concerned for Cheryl. But he assures them that everything is now okay with him and Sakuragi. She admits that she is a little heartbroken but Sakuragi's rejection won't stop her from being his friend. An emotional Haruko hugs her crying and feeling sorry and she is the one that ends up being comforted by Fujii and Matsui. Ayako tells her how proud she is of her quick acceptance and mature approach at his answer. She can't help but smile genuinely at her.
"Thank you, everyone." she said with gratitude. In that moment, she realized that she had no regrets. A smile formed on her face, radiating contentment. Suddenly, she enthusiastically pulled the girls into a warm group hug, surprising them. However, they responded with affection, hugging her back tightly.
NIGHT TIME AT THE BEACH HOUSE.
After a satisfying dinner, everyone gathered together to enjoy some games and engage in conversations about basketball, personal experiences, and goals. Despite belonging in different teams. As the evening winded down, they felt a stronger bond and bid farewell to their hosts with genuine enjoyment from the birthday party. Maki approached Akagi, asking him to take care of his cousin for the night. Akagi assured Maki that he already is making sure nothing bad will occur with his presence. Grateful, Maki offer his hand to which Akagi replies with a firm manly handshake. Kiyota on the other hand is engaged in a spirited debate with Sakuragi and Rukawa, aiming to triumph over them in the competition for the top rookie title. Fujima and Hanagata expressed their appreciation to Coach Anzai for his kindness, to which he modestly responded with a hearty laugh. Hikoichi finds himself in a playful situation where the Gundam asks him for Sakuragi's picture to make fun of later. To which Hikoichi refuses, saying that it's confidential. As the others bid their farewells, Sendoh approaches Cheryl, who was seated alone on one of the wooden benches beside the house.
Cheryl's gaze focuses on the source of approaching footsteps, only to discover Sendoh's friendly smile greeting her. Responding with a weary but genuine smile, she gracefully shifts to make room for him beside her. Sendoh expresses his gratitude with a sigh before settling down next to her. An air of tranquility envelops them as they share a fleeting moment in silence. Sensing Cheryl's attempt to shield herself from the chilly night breeze, Sendoh quickly realizes the discomfort and promptly removes his jacket, gently draping it over her shoulders.
"Sendoh-kun you shouldn't." She looks up in shock but he only shakes his head.
"I must insist, Cheryl-san," Sendoh says firmly, looking at Cheryl with concern. "Please wear the jacket, otherwise, you might catch a cold." Cheryl nods in understanding and stands up to reluctantly put it on. As she slips it over her shoulders, she immediately feels its cozy warmth and catches a faint whiff of a pleasant fragrance. However, the jacket is quite oversized for her petite frame, extending down to her knees, while the long sleeves hang loosely on her hands. Despite the mismatched fit, Sendoh smiles with satisfaction, pleased that she is now protected from the cold.
"It suits you perfectly. You look cute." He compliments, causing her cheeks to flush in a rosy hue. Overflowing with gratitude, she flashes him a warm smile, settling back beside him. The once biting cold no longer fazes her in the slightest.
"You know..." Sendoh looks at Cheryl meaningfully. "The night's still young."
Cheryl brows furrow in confusion and Sendoh laughs.
"I'm just saying... The beach is quiet tonight. It's a great time to walk with someone undisturbed." Sendoh looks up to the stars that light the night sky above them. Cheryl eyes widen realization.
"It's certainly a beautiful night. Perhaps it's also a great time to truly confess to someone, away from prying eyes." Carefully, he pulls out a stunning white tulip ornament into his pocket.
"But I already told him." She frowns but Sendoh tenderly shakes his head, softly prying open her palm. He delicately places the ornament inside and gently clasps it shut with his massive warm hands.
"Not properly." Sendoh winks and stands up.
"Sendoh! Sendoh-kun! Where are you?! It's time for us to leave!" Hikoichi shouts.
"That's my cue. Remember Cheryl-san, do it properly. That's how you confess." Sendoh smiles and turns back to leave. Cheryl immediately stands up and calls out after him.
"Sendoh-san!" He stops and looks at her.
"Thank You!" Cheryl says with genuine appreciation, as her voice carries the sincerity of her words. She gracefully tilts her head in a farewell gesture, her eyes reflecting genuine gratitude as she beams at him. Responding to her warmth, he reciprocates with a charming grin, before walking towards Hikoichi.
With a newfound sense of purpose, she dashed behind the house with utmost haste. To her great fortune, she caught sight of the red-headed figure washing his head with the garden hose, bringing her a wave of relief. With no one else in sight, she cautiously made her way towards him, overcoming any lingering doubts.
"Sakuragi-kun?"
"Hmm," he murmurs, his attention elsewhere as he absentmindedly gazes upwards. In a sudden, unexpected mishap, the spray of water infiltrates his nose and mouth. Caught off guard, he sputters and coughs, his innocent surprise evident in his wide eyes.
"Eeekk! I'm so sorry, Sakuragi-kun!" Cheryl exclaims, her voice filled with genuine worry. Reacting swiftly, she switches off the hose, not wanting to exacerbate the situation further. As he recovers from his little water escapade, she gently pats his back, offering comfort and support, ensuring no residual water remains in his throat.
"What is it Cheryl-san? Sakuragi stands up, his cheeks flushed from the exertion. He quickly wipes off any remaining droplets of water from his face. Cheryl, relieved to see that the energetic redhead is unharmed, can't help but giggle at his adorable clumsiness.
"D-dont laugh!" Sakuragi reddens in embarrassment and scratches his head shyly.
Apologizing, Cheryl lets out a gentle sigh and smiles warmly at him.
"Can you accompany me in a walk?"
The dimly-lit beach stretched out like an ebony blanket, with only a faint glimmer of moonlight breaking through the dark clouds overhead. The rhythmic sound of waves crashed against the shore, creating a soothing symphony that enveloped the tranquil scene. Sakuragi trailed behind Cheryl, his presence like a whisper in the cool night air.
Barefoot and lost in her thoughts, Cheryl absentmindedly kicked up sand with each step, her mind a million miles away. As she walked, Sakuragi's gaze fixated on the waves, standing mere inches away from his feet. Sparkling like liquid diamonds, each wave carried with it a gentle, salty breeze that kissed his face and wrapped around his senses.
The salty scent of the ocean mingled with the gentle hint of seaweed, creating an intoxicatingly crisp aroma that lingered in the air. A symphony of seagulls filled the silence with their distant cries, their silhouettes soaring gracefully against the backdrop of the moonlit sky.
She abruptly halts, causing Sakuragi to pause in confusion. Turning towards Sakuragi, she extends her hand and presents him with a delicate tulip ornament that softly illuminates the surroundings.
"Here, Sakuragi-kun. This is for you," she says, her voice filled with sincerity. He takes it tentatively, not used to receiving gifts from girls, let alone give one.
"T-Thanks.." He sheepishly smiles and Cheryl happily chuckles.
"Hey Sakuragi-kun..." Cheryl's sweet voice melts into the air as she takes a timid step closer to him. With bated breath, their foreheads gently touch, surprising Sakuragi, who believed her romantic pursuit had drawn to a close.
"I, um... want to confess again," Cheryl's cheeks tinted pink, and Sakuragi blushed too.
"E-ehh. But you already did that!" Sakuragi stutters in surprise, their faces dangerously close to each other.
"Not like how I did earlier," she says with a delicate touch, gently placing her hand on his cheeks. Startled, Sakuragi takes a step back, his face turning a deep shade of red. She waits for any sign of resistance, expecting him to move away, but to her surprise, he remains still, captivated by her touch. His eyes sparkle like the moonlight, radiating warmth, and his breath tickles her nose, making her heart skip a beat. His mouth slightly agape and expecting. The usual smug expression on his face has vanished, replaced by an adorable flustered look. Her own face reveals nervousness, but she takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself.
"Why am I even doing this?" she questioned herself, feeling butterflies fluttering in her stomach. However, she forcefully dismissed the thought and redirected her attention towards him.
With a gentle smile, she couldn't help but be captivated by his lack of resistance, finding it endearing rather than discouraging. Slowly, she reached out to caress his face, her touch as light as a feather, melting any lingering tension he may have had. It was clear that Sakuragi, just like her, was inexperienced in matters of the heart.
Feeling emboldened by his passive response, Cheryl gently grasped his other hand, intertwining their fingers together. As she did so, she couldn't help but notice how his hands dwarfed hers, their difference in size strikingly apparent. The callouses on his hand, earned from countless fights and basketball games, provided a rough yet comforting friction against her soft palms. It was a paradox that somehow soothed her, bringing a sense of solace and enjoyment she hadn't anticipated.
Sakuragi sees the precious opportunity and gently tucking a stray strand of hair behind Cheryl's ear. With a careful touch, he placed the beautiful tulip ornament behind her ear, his thumb tracing the contours of her cheek. She leaned into his touch, finding solace in his presence.
Feeling a surge of contentment, Sakuragi tenderly held Cheryl's hand against his cheek, savoring the connection between them. Gently, he lifted her hand to his lips, bestowing a delicate kiss upon her skin. The gesture surprised Cheryl, leaving a deep impression on her. A delighted giggle escaped her lips as he gently released her hand.
Sakuragi's heart swelled with triumph, glad that he had copied the foreigner's gesture he watched on TV.
"I didn't know you're such a gentleman." Cheryl amusedly giggles.
"Well... This tensai is actually an expert in being a gentleman. Nyahahaha" He sheepishly giggles, his cheeks turning a rosy shade.
"You should learn humility sometimes!" Cheryl playfully scolds, her fingers roughly pinching the adorable red-head's ear.
"Ow! Ow! That hurts Cheryl-san!" Cheryl apologetically let's go and gently massages his ear to which he blushes again.
"Sakuragi-kun thank you for helping me and letting me do this to you for the last time." Cheryl sadly smiles which makes Sakuragi frown. He forgot about Haruko when he felt Cheryl's hand on his face, and he knows that despite his wishful thinking. He and Haruko are not an item yet. Nevertheless, deep in his heart, he yearns to keep himself reserved solely for her.
"Cheryl-san even if we don't end up together." Sakuragi's voice trembles slightly as he delicately wipes away a lone tear on Cheryl's cheek. "I'll always be thankful to you."
Upon hearing his heartfelt words, a contented smile adorns Cheryl's face. Moving closer, she intertwines her fingers behind his neck, standing on her tiptoes. In this intimate moment, their gazes remain locked, and no external distractions can infiltrate their unwavering connection, not even the persistent thoughts of Haruko above them.
She hopes that by her gesture she'll have something to leave by his memory. Even if just for tonight she can be with him.
Sakuragi's hand is on her back and she guides her forward.
Here it comes.
Cheryl's gentle lips graze Sakuragi's cheek, causing both their hearts to flutter. She closes her eyes, cherishing the tender moment. With utmost care, Sakuragi caresses both her cheeks, his touch warm and comforting. His lips, though slightly rough, brush against her nose ever so softly, leaving a trail of affection. Playfully, he peppers her cheeks, his nose gently caressing hers. And in a hushed whisper, he lovingly declares, "You are truly beautiful," planting a tender kiss on her forehead, filling her with warmth.
Under the moonlight, they laugh and embrace, their eyes meeting in pure happiness. The waves caress their feet, but it doesn't matter. Their foreheads touch as they smile, oblivious to the world.