Chapter 8: Wonderstruck

"R-Ryoma-kun, I have to tell you something,"

"What is it?"

"About graduation…"

"Hm? What about it?"

"I-I'm not going to college…,"

"You told me that already,"

"...and I'm moving out,"

Ryoma laid on his bed, tossing a tennis ball up on the ceiling and catching it as the conversation between him and Sakuno repeated in his head like it's on loop.

He didn't understand why she felt the need to move away. As if leaving Japan for good was not enough, everyone was deciding to part ways with each other, and it made him uncomfortable. The feeling was quite new to him. Since when did he ever think hard about his friends' future? To where they will wind up, what jobs would they acquire, etc. and it was beginning to dawn on him that it was official.

He doesn't want Sakuno to go.

Yes, he admits it, albeit to himself.

He has grown attached to the girl. To what extent, he doesn't know. But he knew if she moves away from this house, from this town, he has the feeling that he will never see her again. And that didn't sit well with him.

Again, he doesn't know why.

"Where would you go…" he muttered under his breath as he continued to toss and catch the neon ball.

But he told himself that it's none of his business what the girl decides to do. After all, he's leaving, too. They were bound to part ways sooner or later. They're not related in any way but why does it feel like a part of him would be going away with her?

Is this what they call missing someone?

Ryoma cringed at himself. He's surely getting soft. There was a brief part in that conversation where he wanted to tell her not to go. Maybe because he knew she couldn't handle herself alone. Heck, she couldn't even ride a bicycle!

But then, he decided against himself. He shouldn't be invalidating Sakuno's effort and desire for self-improvement and independence. It's part of growing up. And who does he think he is for thinking he should be taking care of her?

Wait, since when did he want to take care of her?

Ryoma let the neon ball fall on his forehead, his arm dropping to his side. He stared at the plain white ceiling of his room and exhaled.

He's already miserable and nothing even happened yet.

Rinko stared at the television, looking bewildered. It was one of those moments again that some cocky teenager challenges her son over a tennis match. It's kind of getting old now, she thought. First it was Kevin Smith, now it's Jason Baker. When will they ever learn not to challenge the Echizen lineage?

Her husband, on the other hand, was excited as he watched the tennis player's statement.

"I'm aware of his national and international success. However, there can only be one best player and I'm here, challenging Ryoma Echizen to prove who will be standing at the top. I dare him to show himself on the courts in the Rio Open. That is all," the six-footer man stepped down the podium and ended the press conference. He sounded just like Kevin Smith but with a little more restraint. But still, he served an intimidating aura, as well.

The Rio Open, a competition held in Brazil, consisting of the best young adult tennis players all over the world, is held every February. Many participants had been renowned to win the trophy at their own country's national tournament. And of course, Ryoma being an outstanding player not only in Japan but also in America, has attracted different parts of the world's attention, wanting to compete with him.

Nanjirou was never one to back down on a challenge, and he knew that his son shared that trait. So, he ran upstairs to wake the boy up from his afternoon nap and bring the news to him.

"What is it, old man?!" his head throbbed from the shaking his father did to him.

"What are you napping for? Let's hit some balls outside! You can't slack off, you brat!" he grinned widely at his son's obliviousness of the situation.

"Alright, alright…"

"Ryoma, you think you can shut his mouth up?" Nanjirou stated as his son watched the replay of Jason Baker's statement. He was sure he saw fire in Ryoma's eyes that day.

"Of course," he smirked as they both went out and started to play a match in the backyard.

By the bench, Rinko and Sakuno sat idly and sipped tea.

"Aunt Rinko, does Ryoma-kun even feel pressured with all these challenges?" she asked.

"Hm? Of course, Sakuno-chan. Everybody feels pressure. But he uses that pressure to push himself harder and unleash the best version of himself,"

"Don't you think it's unhealthy?"

Rinko looked at Sakuno quizzingly.

"What do you mean?"

"W-Well, I'm just thinking, was there a time where he just wanted to get away from all this even for a while?"

"Hmm… he never really tells us. For me, though, he's working for his dream, and I think that's the reason he's doing good," Rinko smiled at her.

"This is really his dream?"

"Yes, since he was a child, Ryoma wanted to follow his father's footsteps and continue your Uncle Nanjirou's dream," Rinko exhaled as she smelled the aroma of her jasmine tea while the cold wind blew over them.

But… that was his father's dream, right?

Sakuno was not convinced but she let it go. She was worried that Ryoma might be forcing himself too much. But Aunt Rinko knows him better than anyone, so she just accepted her explanation.

Sakuno smiled back at Rinko and they continued to watch the father and son have a match.

For the tenth time that day, Ryoma noticed the shutter sound of a camera behind him. He immediately realized it was the paparazzi, capturing his every move, and he knew why.

Jason Baker had issued a challenge against him on international broadcast, and it made headlines instantly. Sure, he felt elated that another foreigner decided to prove who's better in front of the world (obviously him), and everyone knows he's the type of person who doesn't back down from a challenge. So, his father who acts like his manager had contacted Jason's team to inform them of his acceptance to the duel.

And when the whole ordeal was publicized, the swarm of paparazzi started stalking him every day. That was the only downside, he thought. Even though he tried hard to lay low after the Nationals, fame still found itself hovering over his life and the whole world watches him like a reality show. He didn't really mind at first, the only things he ever does is practice tennis at home and at school, and just basically ignores the rest of his surroundings.

But it was different now. Ryoma has Sakuno to think about.

They always walk home together and leave for school together. They were inseparable, and not for the reason you all think. They were basically family. It was quite uncomfortable thinking about it, but it was the reality, and it did look that way to the few people who knew about their living situation.

Anyway, he needed to think about how it would affect the girl's daily life, being included in almost every candid photo of the boy. He worried it might disrupt Sakuno's life and people would make rumors about her. Most importantly, Ryoma was concerned about how the sudden fame would affect her part time job.

The pressure of needing to look out for a friend, and training at the same time, finals week, and his preparation for university exams abroad. It made Ryoma's head throb. Only a few months left before graduation and counting the days only added to his stress.

He sighed tiredly and entered the gate of their house.

At last, alone again. He thought.

When he opened the front door, Sakuno was already standing in front of him, seemingly awaiting his arrival all this time. That day, he told the girl that she should go home without him so that the paparazzi won't see her with him as much, saving her from unnecessary gossip. Sakuno realized that he was doing it for her, and she appreciated it. But still, it made her sad that they were once again back to going home separately. Of course, it was obviously the better option for both of them. She can always see him at school and at home, after all.

But she felt like it wasn't enough anymore.

Sakuno mentally slapped herself for being selfish. For starters, Ryoma doesn't even belong to her. Being his housemate doesn't mean that she has a say about these things. It will always be Ryoma's decision, and she could only comply.

"I'm home," he quietly said, and she greeted back with a smile.

"Welcome back, Ryoma-kun,"

She watched him sit by the step and remove his shoes. A frown was visible on his face, and Sakuno felt a sudden pang on her chest. Being followed by strangers all day really drains the hell out of him, and it pains her to see him so stressed out.

Maybe I should do something for him, he always cheers me up when I'm down.

Sakuno wondered about the things that would bring a smile to her housemate's face. Then she suddenly remembered the shops that she and Tomoka would frequent to and wondered if Ryoma would like it.

Well, it's worth a shot.

"R-Ryoma-kun… how should I put this," she fiddled on her fingers as she nervously averted her eyes from him. Ryoma looked up at him with wondering eyes, waiting for her to continue.

"What is it?" he asked, a little impatient with her stalling. He would appreciate it if Sakuno got rid of that annoying habit of making people wait.

"W-Well, I thought I could do something for you," she decided to be straightforward to him from now on. It's the only way to get across her point to him. "So, I-I wanted to ask you… out," she said at last.

Now, if he rejects her invitation, it would be totally fine. It would be embarrassing, but totally fine, considering he's tired and all–

"Okay,"

She blinked. Did Ryoma actually agree to go with her? Or did she mishear him? She tends to think about numerous things at once and she might have missed something along her thoughts.

"Huh?"

"When do you want to go?" he spoke again. This time, Sakuno got a pretty good listen. He did agree! Her heart skipped a beat and her eyes widened at the thought of going out with Ryoma.

Not in a romantic way, she thought. They'll be going out as friends. To unwind and have fun.

"U-Um… whenever you want," she decided to let him choose a time and place, since it's going to be for his mental health and well-being.

It wouldn't matter as long as he's with her.

Ryoma stood up and faced her, a smile flashed across his face, it made her face turn red.

Sakuno will never get used to his handsome features and cute expressions.

"Then, I'll go change," he turned around and headed upstairs to change into more comfortable clothing. She spun around, looking confused as she watched the boy's retreating form.

"N-Now? But-but you just got home! Shouldn't you rest, Ryoma-kun?" she hastily followed him until they were in his room. Ryoma began to rummage in his closet and pulled a white shirt and jeans. He threw them on his bed and started unbuttoning his school uniform.

Sakuno, still panicking over the sudden turn of events, has only just realized that Ryoma planned to undress in front of her, while she's inside his room.

"WAHH!" she turned around, stepped out of the room and grabbed the doorknob, slamming it shut behind her. Her heart thumped loudly against her chest.

She didn't mean to go now! What was Ryoma thinking? He just got home, dead tired from practice, not to mention the stress, and now he actually wanted to go with her.

Her!

Sakuno could not believe it. How can he just easily agree to a spontaneous thing she whipped up?

Most importantly, she felt embarrassed to just enter his room like it was the most public place on Earth. Sakuno was not feeling proud of herself right now.

Grandma would beat me up if she knew what I've been doing…

Feeling defeated, Sakuno decided to change clothes, too.

Ryoma suggested they alter their appearances a bit to avoid being followed, so he wore a different kind of hat, a big, blue bucket hat, and nerdy glasses. Next, he handed Sakuno a pink rimmed glasses, a pink wig that went down to her waist and black baseball cap. The two of them stood in front of the mirror, reflecting a completely unrecognizable version of themselves, mainly because they were wearing the complete opposite of their style.

"W-Why am I the only one wearing a wig..." she muttered as she tugged the synthetic hair on her head.

"My head is all covered with this bucket hat," he smirked as he tucked a few loose strands of his hair back into the hat.

"B-But you still look like Ryoma-kun...!"

He blinked.

Really?

Then...

Ryoma took out a black marker from the drawer and drew something on his face. As he faced her, Sakuno couldn't help but laugh. He just drew a black mole on his cheek. It was enough to make him look like a different person now.

"There, happy?" he asked.

"Yes!" she smiled at him, then they proceeded to exit through the back door.

First on Sakuno's list was to take Ryoma to a cat cafe. She learned that spending time with animals can lift up your mood and instantly brighten up your day.

So, they entered the cafe and greeted the staff. As soon as Ryoma stepped inside, a few cats climbed on his leg. It was a good thing he wore thick pants, or he would be covered in scratches. He crouched down and gently stroked the cat's fur.

Sakuno watched in awe as the prince and cats seemed to like each other. There was a soft expression on his face, she immediately thought that it was a good thing she decided to take him here.

As they settled on one of the tables, Sakuno sat by the chair, while Ryoma settled on the carpet and started playing with the cats.

"This one's feisty," he muttered, pulling the cat's tail as it desperately runs away from his grasp. Sakuno let out a few giggles before another cat made its way to her leg.

"O-Oh, hello-" she was about to pick up the cat, but it started to get aggressive and almost scratched her bare legs if not for Ryoma's hand snatching the cat from her.

Sakuno was surprised as the boy scooted over to sit in front of her legs, blocking her skin from any more scratching.

"E-Eh, Ryoma-kun, I'm fine…" she gently tapped his shoulders, but he remained in his position and continued to play with the cats. She sighed and felt her cheeks burn up. His back would bump onto her legs as he happily played with one particular cat, one that has white and black-brown fur.

Ryoma leaned his back onto Sakuno's legs backwards, his head almost laying down on her lap, as he held the cat up on Sakuno's face. A smile was present on his face like a kid showing his toy.

"Look, Ryuzaki. This one looks like Karupin," he said.

Oh, that's right. He had a cat…

It dawned on Sakuno that it was probably a mistake to bring him here. It may trigger painful memories about his late cat.

"Ryoma-kun, sorry… I forgot that you used to have a cat," she looked down on his face, as he maintained his position on her legs. His arms were still in the air with the cat, and a few strands of his hair tickled her skin.

Ryoma stared at her, wondering why she apologized. He was actually having a good time right now. Does it not show in his face?

His brows furrowed. It was years ago since Karupin died. Yes, he's still sad over it, but he moved on. As painful as it was, he chose to keep Karupin's memories as happy ones. After all, the times they spent were greater than when he lost him.

"Thanks, Ryuzaki, for taking me here," he looked up at her with a genuine smile that he realized shows up only in front of Sakuno.

The girl's expression changed from a worried one to a happy one. That was all it took for Ryoma's heart to begin its uncontrollable rapid beats.

"Meow…" the cat purred as the two stared at each other.

The thumping on Ryoma's heart was louder than his stomach growling, but Sakuno obviously only heard the latter it made her break from the stare.

"O-Oh! Let's have dinner now!" She assisted his head as he stood up from the floor, and they exited the cafe together.

Next on her list was to have a picnic by Odaiba Beach.

As the sun dipped below the sea, the sky was becoming darker, a gradient color of orange and black-blue illuminated the area. It was the perfect place to unwind and relax, an opportunity that Ryoma needs right now.

The girl began to rummage through her backpack, pulling a sheet and bento boxes, even Ponta. Ryoma stood by the sideline, wondering how all those things fit in there. Sakuno kneeled on the blanket and happily arranged the Tupperware of rice and tempura, a thermos containing miso soup, a platter of fruits cut up in bite sized pieces, and two cans of grape Ponta.

By that time, the surroundings are getting darker and Sakuno was moving slower, unable to see in the dark. In front of them, a few kids were running with a dog, and their parents walked behind them. Ryoma looked around his surroundings, relishing the comforting view and inhaling the fresh scent of the ocean. He turned his gaze to Sakuno, who was eagerly emptying her bag to finish her preparations.

He was quite impressed with her effort. Although, it was not surprising because she has been this hardworking ever since their middle school days. He was suddenly reminded of the times when she would bring bento for him and such.

"You really came prepared, huh?" he stared at her, thinking of the effort Sakuno must have done to make this day special for him. He tried to think of a word that best describes what he's feeling right now, but he can't seem to think of anything. His mind was distracted by her doing, and the mysterious magic of this place that sends a feeling in his heart that feels foreign to him.

"N-Not really, I just saw it on TV… hehe…" she timidly chuckled. It was quite embarrassing to admit that she had planned this 'date' thoroughly just for him. She even researched for some places with relaxing ambience. She just hopes that this will suffice and would lift the weight off of the boy for even just a day.

Completing the setting of their dinner with a small candle in the middle, Sakuno sat down on the left side with the food in the middle.

Ryoma stood there, officially wonderstruck by the candlelit dinner, the white sand, the disappearing light from the sun, and the glimmering eyes of the girl smiling up at him.

"The sea feels good," she muttered, closing her eyes and feeling the cold breeze. Her long, brown hair in pigtails swayed with the wind, and the ruffles on her dress seemed to dance gracefully.

She sat there, surrounded by colorful pieces of food that he guessed that she made, and right then and there, a word popped into his mind that he tried hard to think of that would best describe the view he was looking at.

Beautiful.

To be continued.