Chapter 43: Photographs

The room was warmly lit, a vase of white roses decorated the wooden antique end table. There was nothing else in the room but a large window behind it. A sheer white curtain covered the window that overlooks the city of Tokyo, and a red carpet completed the setup.

It was so beautiful, it sent a warm feeling to Sakuno's heart as she sat on the sofa right across the setup, but the man beside him was not so impressed. She looked over to his direction and saw his usual bored expression.

"Ryoma-kun, are you okay?"

With his arms crossed on his chest, he swung his leg impatiently. He was dressed in simple black trousers and white shirt, a black coat completed his aesthetic look. Although it looked casual, his physique made it seem effortlessly cool. His hair was styled in a more laid back way, too, and his bangs covered his left eye.

He was absolutely stunning. Ryoma looked like an idol, perhaps better. The Echizen genes are truly magnificent!

"I've gone to too many of these photoshoots and I know they're going to make me pose so much, it's embarrassing. You look excited, though," he opened one eye and glanced at Sakuno. She was wearing a white Sunday dress that ran down her ankles, apricot high heels that added a few more inches to her height, her hair was curled elegantly, and she had a light pink-themed makeup on.

Sakuno looked like a doll, flawless pale skin, shiny auburn hair, and slim figure. One simply can't resist a second look at her.

"Sorry I dragged you into this… but Shiba-san insisted on doing this for us and she had supported you ever since you were in Seigaku. Also… she encouraged me when I was down," She reminisced on the memory of the reporter talking some sense to her over the fact that her support could never reach Ryoma. Sakuno felt so indebted to Shiba that she couldn't decline her offer to do an engagement photoshoot.

"Besides, I want to tell the whole world,"

Ryoma saw Sakuno smile beautifully at him. She looked even more ethereal the more that she gets made up like that. Well, obviously, he could never reject Sakuno's wishes, even more now that they're getting married.

He smiled back at her.

"I'm only doing this for you, you know,"

"I know, thank you," She leaned her head on his shoulder and sighed. Even though she feels nervous as this is the first time she's going to be photographed by professionals, she was looking forward to printing a large copy of it and hanging it to their future home.

"Alright, lovebirds! Why don't we start with a basic position," Shiba shows up with her camera hanging on her neck. She was all smiles after knowing through another nosy character (Tomoka) that the two are getting married. It seemed like it was only yesterday that a young Sakuno followed the young Ryoma around like a bee. Who knew that they would be getting married in their twenties?

It was indeed a surprise, and she was thankful to be trusted and granted this opportunity to let the world know of their engagement.

Sakuno and Ryoma stood up and got to their positions.

"Ryoma-kun, why don't you relax and act natural. Sakuno's going to be the star anyway. You're just the background, okay?"

"I was told that I'm an important person here?"

"Yes, but today I want to highlight Sakuno more because one, she looks beautiful, and two, she looks adorable!"

Sakuno giggled, a pinkish shade painted her cheeks. She admired Shiba's strong personality that can handle difficult clients like Ryoma.

The older woman grabbed Sakuno and made her stand up in the middle of the setup, the sunset illuminated her silhouette, then Ryoma leaned on the wooden end table on the side. Shiba didn't bother to direct him as much because she knew that he has done so many photoshoots for other brands before, so he ended up shoving his hands in his pockets since he doesn't know any other poses besides standing up. It doesn't matter because he knew that his face would be enough to attract viewers.

Sakuno awkwardly leaned a bit to Ryoma's body, her hand reaching for his cheek as they looked into each other's eyes.

"Alright, Sakuno. I want you to keep your hand in front to emphasize the diamond ring," She raised the camera to her eye and adjusted the focus.

Sakuno turned her head to see Ryoma's eyes softened. He mouthed something to her as the camera clicked.

Cute.

She blushed at his compliment. She could never get used to his sweet words, especially since he's never like this to other people. Sakuno smiled at him and her thumb gently brushed his warm cheek. Suddenly, she doesn't feel awkward anymore, it felt natural to be this close to him. The fact that he was just as in love with her as she is with him was surreal.

Shiba picked a good time to do the photoshoot, autumn leaves fell outside the big window, the sheer curtains swayed with the breeze, the golden sun complimented Ryoma's cat eyes, and the wind lightly blew Sakuno's white dress.

They were picture perfect.

A week later, the world was in chaos, good chaos. Pro Tennis magazine published Sakuno and Ryoma's engagement photos online, and on the cover of their physical copies. Fans all over the world were surprised, of course they knew of Sakuno's existence in the prince's life, but it was a shock to some, a pleasant surprise to others. Comments bombarded the online post, numerous articles were released, Ryoma's sponsors all shared the news with their own posts with congratulatory messages.

Ryoma anticipated that this would happen so he had increased security in their condo unit, especially Sakuno's work. It would be better if she quit her job but he knows full well that if he ever mentions that, it would probably be the end of a gentle Sakuno. So, he suggested bodyguards for her.

However, she rejected the idea. Sakuno was sure that she can do something about it and that he can relax, and Ryoma didn't attempt to disobey her. After all, the fans seemed to receive the news quite nicely so that put his mind at ease.

That night, he returned home from America (for the hundredth time). He was set to participate in another prestigious tournament abroad and he is currently training under Ryoga's supervision so he was mostly away from home and had no time to help Sakuno with the wedding preparations.

He would have loved to go back and forth abroad, but it was still hard for him and it seemed he's going to have to accept the fact that he could no longer travel without fans surrounding him.

"How's your training?" Sakuno was smearing the same black facial mask on Ryoma's face, his head laid down on her lap. She tries to give as much time to him as possible whenever they get to meet each other at home (which is seldom), and pamper him with her skin care even though he doesn't need it. Sometimes, Sakuno worries he might find it annoying or too feminine, but Ryoma never seemed to protest otherwise.

He sighed heavily.

"Fans pestered me at the airport again… how is it that I became ever more irresistible after being engaged?"

"Really?"

"One of the girls said that exact thing. I can't understand," He felt the cold cream covering his face as Sakuno put the cap on the tube.

She frowned at the idea that girls would get their hands on him every time he leaves home, and that doesn't sit well with her. Of course, she's aware that she's jealous and insecure. She's not Angelina Jolie, or Jennifer Aniston! She's the plain, timid Sakuno who never cared for her appearance until now.

Of course, she was jealous. But knowing that Ryoma never intended to entertain them was comforting.

"So what exactly does this cream do to my face?" He lightly scratched his chin.

"Ryoma-kun… do you look at other girls?" She looked down at him, her eyes full of uncertainty and sadness.

"What?"

"I'm serious…"

"Hmm… Yes, I do," being the straightforward person that he is, Ryoma answered her in all truthfulness and obviousness. Of course, he's not blind. He looks at millions of different people everyday, especially abroad.

Sakuno was hurt. Maybe because she knew that Ryoma never cared to sugarcoat everything he says, and that he's the type of guy to be frank. Her hand mindlessly stroked his dark green hair, hot tears were threatening to roll down her cheeks.

"But I don't look at them the way I look at you. That's the truth," he continued. Ryoma watched Sakuno's expression instantly light up. He memorized how to cheer her up, that's why they're perfect for each other.

"Really?" Her cheeks were a shade of red, and her lips formed a pleased smile.

"Yeah, really. For me, they're just people. If I hadn't told you a million times, or if you've got the memory of a sloth, I like you," his hand reached for her warm cheek.

"Ryoma-kun…"

"Maybe you're doing this on purpose so I can tell you again and again,"

"No, I'm not!" She felt embarrassed for a bit but was happier nonetheless. Ryoma seemed to make her feel better all the time and most of the time, he doesn't even realize it. That was one of the things she loved about him, and how her mind and heart is set on marrying him and making a vow to love him forever.

Now that those uncertain thoughts are gone, they really have to talk about their wedding and other things! It's currently midnight and all they have right now is having a mini bar for reception, which is all he suggested.

"Ryoma-kun, wake up!" She noticed him dozing off on her lap, with a face mask still on his face. His eyes shot open at her voice.

"What…"

"We have to make decisions for our wedding. Since we've decided to do it next year and that we're both busy with work, we don't really have a lot of time to prepare stuff, so I think we should take a bit of time to talk to each other," she nodded to her statement and grabbed her notebook. She would make a list of the things that they want to do on the big day, as well as a guest list.

"Okay," he mumbled with his eyes closed. He snuggled on her warm lap, trying his hardest to force his eyes open.

"Okay, first question. Do you want a big wedding or a small one?"

"Hmm…"

"What foods do you think we should get?"

"Ponta… burger?"

"Do you want lilies or roses?"

"I'm not sure,"

"Do you want a church or garden wedding?"

"Tennis cou–"

"Morning or afternoon?"

"Sakuno, Sakuno. I don't really have any idea about weddings and stuff… How about we just do it in Vegas? That way, it's just the two of us, and it's quick,"

"Don't you want your family to be there?"

Ah, shoot.

"You know what? I'll let you handle it, okay? Why don't we worry about that some other time? You really need to rest now," Ryoma rubbed his eyes carefully not to smudge the facial mask Sakuno tried her best to apply.

Sakuno was dumbfounded, her eyebrows twitched. Of course, his fiancé wouldn't even have the enthusiasm to arrange a wedding. It's not tennis! She can already feel an impending headache coming. But she should have expected this from Ryoma, the most indifferent person she had ever met.

"Okay, but wash off the facial first, Ryoma-kun! You don't want to get wrinkles," Sakuno smiled as the prince groaned. He stood up and went straight to the bathroom to rinse his face.

"So, what do you think?" Ryoga nudged his younger brother's shoulder. They were standing in front of a tall building with red accents around it. The large gates opened at once and they both walked in to see the spacious yard. Behind them were investors and their sponsors collectively in awe of the place.

"Wow, it's incredible, Echizen-kun! I'm sure the kids will love staying here," one elderly man said. Ryoga recognized him as the spokesperson of Ponta. Another one stood beside him, who was the representative of Fila. He nodded approvingly to himself, feeling proud of the work and effort he has done for this project.

"It's nice," Ryoma smiled. Honestly, he has no idea about the decisions Ryoga made for their stadium but nonetheless, he was happy at the outcome. Almost five thousand youths have now signed onto their training program which made him quite impressed at how his reach influenced different kinds of disabled and underprivileged kids out there.

As the sponsors settled themselves in the lounge and the waiters served them refreshments, Ryoga and Ryoma sat by the bar.

"Chibisuke, listen," The older man fiddled on his glass of scotch. He has yet to talk to Ryoma about his sudden plans of leaving, and he wasn't sure how his brother would take it. But he still needed to tell him.

"What?"

"I need to go to Arizona," he finally said. Ryoma turned his head to him, completely caught off guard.

"Arizona? Why are you going there?" He tried to sound nonchalant even though in his head, he was freaking out. Ever since they came together again after his hiatus, Ryoga has been supportive of him and he would be lying if he said that he didn't enjoy their time together. But what would the reason be? Is he leaving for good, then? Like when they were kids?

"As you know, our old man brought me home when we were still kids, right? My mom died of an illness and then Dad lost custody of me. That's why I had to leave you," He sighed softly. Talking about it was always hard for him since he knew that Ryoma was devastated back then. He might feel differently now that they're grown up, but still, he didn't want anything to hurt his brother.

He waited anxiously for Ryoma's reaction, but none came. He studied his face, his scrunched brows, eyes looking down on his drink, and his fingers fiddling on his phone.

"My grandmother is not feeling well. I have to see her," Ryoga continued.

Ryoma glanced at him, surprised. He almost forgot that his brother had a different family before them. It felt weird but he had to let him go even if it meant they'll be apart again. He doesn't even know why he's making a big deal of it when all his teenage life, Ryoga has never been there. Why is he sad right now?

However, his grandmother should be his priority, not his half brother. Ryoma understood this, and he chose to keep his own thoughts to himself and let Ryoga do what he needed to do. After all, the construction is done, and in only six months, to boot. All Ryoma needed to do was to arrange a date for the opening and other things. He can do it without Ryoga, right?

"Arizona. That far, huh?" he smiled.

"Yeah. I don't know how bad it is so there's no telling when I'll come back. But I'll be in touch with you, okay? I can message you on social media,"

"I don't have one,"

"What? You ought to have one! Otherwise, I'd spend a lot of money with long distance calls!"

Ryoga snatched Ryoma's phone and started creating a social media account for him. Ryoma did not protest, instead he smiled at his brother's stubborn attitude. These are one of those times he'll miss.

"I probably shouldn't have one without my manager's permission," Ryoma rested his chin on his palm.

"Idiot. Even if you already have a permanent manager now, I'm still your stand-in manager slash brother. And of course, we are Echizens! We can do what we want! Now, what photo do you want to set as your profile picture? Ahh, this one looks good. I'm going to add my profile as your friend now. Oh, Sakuno-chan, too," He tapped on his phone carelessly.

"Whatever," Ryoma shrugged. He decided to go with the flow of his life, and if his brother needed to leave, he would be okay with it. Ryoga was his pillar, the support he needed whenever things spiral out of control in his head. He was the one who pushed him to win tournaments, he was the stand-in manager for him throughout his training, the one who managed his stadium because he couldn't, and the one who fed him oranges and played with him when they were young.

It doesn't matter when he'll return. He'll always be glad to see Ryoga.

"Make sure to come back, aniki."

Sakuno unfolded the boxes into their original shape. She carefully placed her books inside, and then taped it securely. She and Ryoma decided to move into a new and bigger house, not an apartment or condo unit, to finally have their own home, and since they're getting married, they will need a new space to build a family. That's why here she is, on her day off, packing their things little by little because the wedding is just a month away.

This reminded her of the time when her grandmother died, seventeen year old Sakuno was packing her things in their house, and Ryoma was right beside her. She recalled how she ugly cried after he comforted her using his late cat, and when he got home dripping wet from practice but still he finished transferring all of her belongings into his home so she doesn't have to.

That was the beginning of their lives together. And now, they are going to move into a new home, much like their high school days, but this time it's different. There's no conflicting feelings, no confused minds over what they meant to each other.

This time, they will be living together as husband and wife.

Sakuno smiled warmly as her hand touched a random box, one of Sumire's things. She forgot that she still kept a few of her possessions.

This must have been packed by Ryoma-kun.

She opened the box and saw countless paperworks inside. She wondered if these were all Sumire's documents from Seigaku. With her curiosity getting the better of her, Sakuno scanned the contents of each paper. It was random, a few about Seigaku, letters from the other schools who competed with their team a couple of years ago, and some were just recipes her grandmother kept.

When she got to the bottom, Sakuno noticed an old and crisp envelope. It was so old that it was already yellowish and torn. Written on it was the address of their home! Flipping it on the other side, she saw an outdated stamp, a date, and a return address. It was sent twenty five years ago, from Sapporo.

"Maybe a love letter for grandma," she giggled at the thought. Her finger gently undid the pasted flap in front, and it opened instantly. Inside was a single paper and a small photo.

Sakuno stared at the baby in the photo. It almost definitely resembles her. Or was it grandma in her baby years? They do look alike, after all. She opened the paper and began to read it.

Mom,

Just gave birth to Sakuno and here's a photo of her. We'll visit you soon, we have to talk.

-Satsuki

Her hands trembled, her mouth agape, and tears rolled down her cheeks uncontrollably. She couldn't believe it.

"Mother…?"

To be continued.