As the winter break melted into a brisk January morning, the frosty air enveloped Tokyo, and students bundled in scarves hustled through the school gates. Among them was Sakuno, her heart racing with anticipation of the university entrance exam looming ahead.

Sakuno immersed herself in study whenever she found a moment, her determined spirit glowing even under her heavy scarf. Each free period was an opportunity for her to delve deep into books, cramming knowledge into her eager mind. Ryoma paused to watch her.

"You sure do study hard, Sakuno," he remarked, a hint of admiration in his voice.

"Yeah, you know I have the university entrance exam soon," she replied, her eyes sparkling with resolve.

"Right," he nodded. "Good luck with it."

Her smile brightened the dull winter day, even if it flickered only briefly. Lately, she barely returned home early, opting instead for the cozy confines of Tomoka's house, where they could study together. It was a routine that brought comfort amidst the pressure of impending examinations.

She suddenly couldn't help but wonder about Ryoma's university in US. "Don't your college have an entrance exam too, Ryoma-kun?" she had asked him once.

"No," he responded simply, "I got invited to study there, and they gave me a scholarship."

Her eyes widened in disbelief. "That's amazing, Ryoma-kun!" she exclaimed, pride swelling in her chest. He merely shrugged, his expression calm as always.

During club activities, Tomoka ventured into the storeroom to organize some tennis rackets. As she rummaged around, her gaze fell upon Ryoma at the vending machine, fiddling with the options as the familiar sound of a can dropped and rolled echoed in the empty space.

"Ryoma-sama," Tomoka called out, leaning against the doorway.

He looked up, startled by the nickname that caught the attention of his focused demeanor.

"It's not good to take cold beverages during winter, you know?" she chided playfully.

"It keeps me fresh," he shrugged, an impish grin spreading across his face.

"By the way," Tomoka continued, her tone shifting to a more serious note, "do you know Sakuno's birthday is coming soon?"

Ryoma's eyes widened, the realization dawning on him. "Her birthday?" His mind raced, panic bubbling to the surface. How could he forget this?

Tomoka sighed, recognizing the guilt creeping into his expression. "I guess you don't know it, looking at your face," she teased.

"I forgot to ask her; when is her birthday?" Ryoma felt a rush of embarrassment.

"Unfortunately," she said, crossing her arms, "it falls on the same day we take the entrance exam—January 14th."

Ryoma nodded absently, mentally kicking himself. He knew how much effort Sakuno put into celebrating his birthday in the past, and now he felt a pang of guilt for neglecting hers. He thanked Tomoka sincerely before departing, determination settling in his chest.

After the day's activities wrapped up, Ryoma spotted Sakuno and Tomoka at the school gate, laughter glimmering in the cold air. "You're going to Osakada's home today too?" he asked.

"Yes," Sakuno replied, a hint of worry brushing her features. "Be careful on your way home, Ryoma-kun."

"You too," he said, a protective instinct flaring up. "Don't get back too late. Call me if you do; I'll pick you up."

Tomoka clasped her arm around Sakuno's shoulders, beaming with confidence. "Don't worry, Ryoma-sama. I'll make sure she's safe." They waved each other off, leaving Ryoma with swirling thoughts as he walked the quiet streets of Tokyo.

While exploring shop fronts, Kachiro waved him down. "Ryoma-kun!" he called out, jogging toward him. "What are you doing here?"

"Just strolling around, what about you?" Ryoma replied casually, but beneath the surface lay a brewing urgency.

"I went to the sports shop to pick up some overgrip tape." Kachiro smiled, glancing at him curiously.

Ryoma said, "I see."

"Well, I'm going now. See you." Kachiro said, started to walk away.

"Kachiro, wait."

Kachiro looked back at Ryoma. "What is it, Ryoma-kun?"

Ryoma rubbed the back of his neck nervously. "Well... I need to ask you something."

"Okay, ask anything," Kachiro said, eyebrows raised in interest.

"What do you usually give to your girlfriend on her birthday?" Ryoma's voice was low, almost lost amidst the bustling noise around them.

Kachiro's face brightened. "Do you want to get something for Ryuzaki?"

"Yeah," Ryoma confirmed, a mixture of excitement and anxiety twisting in his stomach.

"Well, it depends on what the girls usually do I guess. My girlfriend likes anime, so I usually gave her collection of anime to watch. I don't think Ryuzaki likes those." Kachiro said, giggled and then he started to think again.

"Honestly, Ryuzaki is not materialistic. I think she'll appreciate anything you give her. But," he paused, tapping a finger against his chin thoughtfully, "what if you give her something that will make her remember you whenever she looks at it?"

"Something that will make her remember?" Ryoma echoed, his thoughts drifting to Sakuno.

"Yep." Kachiro shocked as he saw the wall clock at the center of Tokyo City. "Oh no, I've got to run! I promised my dad I'd meet him," Kachiro exclaimed, turning on his heel. "Good luck finding the gift!"

"Thanks," Ryoma called after him, his eyes glued to the storefronts around him, until a gleam caught his attention—a jewellery store. Memories of his brother Ryoga surfaced, counseling him on gifts cherished by those you hold dear; "Buy jewellery for the girl you really like only," he had said.

Nervously stepping inside, Ryoma was greeted by the warm, inviting atmosphere. The seller approached with a curious smile. "Welcome!"

Ryoma looked around. He saw many types of jewellery inside the glass display.

"Are you looking for something special for your girlfriend?" The seller tried to help as she saw Ryoma's troubled face.

"Yeah," Ryoma replied, his cheeks warming at the thought of Sakuno.

"Any preferences? What does she look like?" The seller probed, and Ryoma blushed deeper as images of Sakuno filled his mind.

"Well, she's cute…" he admitted shyly.

The seller giggled, "Then she probably likes cute stuff. Well, what about this couple bracelets? It's quite cute if she thinks you wearing the same match as her."

His heart thudded in his chest. The idea struck him like lightning. "Couple bracelets?" he asked, eyes lighting up.

"Yes. We can even craft names on them," the seller enthused. "But, it's quite pricey. I can recommend you the cheaper one."

Ryoma thought for a moment. Money was never a concern; he'd earned plenty from the tournaments he won, and he didn't even use it much. "I'll take them." He declared, his resolve hardening.

After making the purchase, Ryoma left the shop, the anticipation swirling within him like the flurries of snow outside. He couldn't wait to see Sakuno's expression when he presented her with his gift—something that would tie them together, even across distances.

As the clock ticked closer to midnight, the world outside faded into a hushed silence. Ryoma paced anxiously as he peeked there's light from Sakuno's room, casting a warm glow in the otherwise dark hallway.

Ryoma found himself standing before Sakuno's door. He pulled a small cake from the fridge—an impulse buy he hoped would bring a smile to her face. He hide the cake behind him. With a soft knock, he waited, heart racing just a bit faster than usual.

Sakuno opened the door, her wide eyes reflecting surprise and delight. "Ryoma-kun?" she exclaimed softly and blushing.

"Shouldn't you be asleep? You need your rest for tomorrow," he scolded gently, knowing she should get ready for tomorrow's exam.

"I'm too nervous, I can't sleep." she admitted, shoulders slumping slightly. It was hard to shake off the unease that settled in her stomach like a heavy stone.

With a hint of a smirk forming on his lips, Ryoma leaned in closer as the clock struck twelve. "Happy birthday, Sakuno," he whispered softly, watching her cheeks flush with warmth.

"Thank you, Ryoma-kun," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.

"Want to eat some cake? I… well, I didn't know how to bake like you, so I bought it," he stammered, earning a giggle from her.

"Yes." she beamed, leading him inside her small room. They settled onto the floor, the cake perched on a low table between them, its candles burning brightly.

Sakuno gazed at the flickering flames, lost in thought, before turning her gaze to Ryoma.

"You won't make me sing 'Happy Birthday' will you?" he asked, sweat trickling down his brow in mock horror.

"Just once, please?" she coaxed, eyes sparkling mischievously.

"Fine. Can I whisper it in your ear?" he asked, a hint of reluctance in his voice.

"Okay!" she giggled, excited.

As Ryoma leaned closer, his breath tickled her ear as he sang softly. The intimacy of the moment enveloped them, the song wrapping around them like a warm blanket. As he finished, Sakuno turned to him with bright, shining eyes filled with gratitude, and a wish formed silently in her heart before she blew out the candle.

"Thank you, Ryoma-kun," she said, pulling him into a tight hug. "Please go sleep after you eat the cake. I'll give you a present tomorrow after your exam if you rest now," he replied, tenderness evident in his tone.

Sakuno's smile widened. They eat the cake together. Somehow, Sakuno felt her nervousness decrease each time Ryoma was with her.

"Can you stay with me until I fall asleep? I still feel so nervous."

He nodded, settling beside her as she lay down on her bed. Holding her hand, he felt her breathing gradually slow. She smiled at him, comforted, and closed her eyes. Ryoma watched over her, cherishing the tranquility of the moment. He tucked her hand gently under the blanket, and after taking a moment to gather the leftover cake, he turned off the bedside lamp, stealing one last glance at her peaceful face before quietly closing the door behind him.

The next morning dawned bright and clear. Sakuno hurriedly gathered her things, anxiety bubbling beneath her surface. As she stepped out into the fresh air, Ryoma was waiting for her, his presence grounding her chaotic thoughts.

"Did you bring everything? Identification? Application form?" he asked, checking in with her as they began walking together.

"Yeah," she replied, feeling the fluttering in her stomach lessen just a little in his company.

"I'll send you there," Ryoma declared decisively, pulling her along.

"Are you bringing your tennis bag?" she asked, noticing the big tennis bag slung over his shoulder.

"Yeah, the guys from Hyotei and senpais wanted me to play with them," he added, and Sakuno grinned back at him.

"Have fun then!" she encouraged, happiness blooming in her chest.

Suddenly, her phone chimed, her parents calling to wish her a happy birthday and good luck on her exam. Her grandma, Sumire, wrapped her in a warm embrace at the main door, sending her off with well-wishes.

As they approached the university, Sakuno spotted Tomoka and Ai waving eagerly. She turned to Ryoma and gave him a wave too before heading toward them, excitement building for what lay ahead.

"Oi Echizen!" Horio yelled, charging toward him when he saw Ryoma's figure.

Ryoma, who was about to walk away, turned to him. "You applying for this university too?"

"Yeah," Horio responded coolly, "You walked Ryuzaki here?"

"Yeah. Well, good luck, Horio," Ryoma said, smirking made Horio grinned happily.

"Thanks!" Horio said cheerily as he dashed inside, determination etched on his face.

Ryoma chuckled, he sincerely felt glad that Horio's spirit was boosted. He continued walk again towards his destination. Once he reached the tennis court, he smirked as the cheers of the former regulars and the Hyotei guys filled the air.

Meanwhile, Sakuno focused intently on her exam, joined by Tomoka and Ai, their nerves palpable yet manageable.

Hours later, as Sakuno, Ai, Tomoka and Horio exited the examination hall, Ryoma stood at the gate, bouncing his tennis ball with the tennis racket, that familiar smile on his face when he caught sight of Sakuno. Sakuno smiled back and run towards him. "Ryoma-kun."

"Let's celebrate at Kawamura Sushi Bar! It's Sakuno's birthday too!" Tomoka exclaimed, prompting laughter and excitement among their group.

Horio called out, "Really? Happy birthday, Ryuzaki!" Sakuno's cheeks flushed again, her heart swelling with happiness as she thanked him.

As they walked together, laughter floated through the air, as Tomoka, Horio and Ai chatting. Ryoma and Sakuno walked behind them, fell into a contemplative silence. Sakuno noticed the bracelet encircling his wrist, but curiosity took a backseat to her anticipation of the evening.

Ryoma stopped his track to put in back his racket and rummaged his tennis bag, feeling the small box that he intended to give to her. "This is for you; happy birthday."

Sakuno's eyes widened in shock. "For me?!"

"Yeah, I said I'd give you a present after your exam," he replied nonchalantly, though his heart raced just the same.

"Can I open it?" she asked eagerly, gently lifting the bracelet from the small box. She glanced at Ryoma's wrist again and noticed he wore a matching one, engraved with an R and S.

"They're a match," he asserted, raising her wrist to the light. "You like it?" He asked.

"Yeah, I really do. Thank you so much, Ryoma-kun. This is so cute." she said, blushing fiercely.

"Let me put it on for you," he offered, tightening the bracelet around her wrist with a careful touch.

Sakuno asked, "where did you buy it?"

Ryoma smirked and continued walking. "Secret."

Sakuno giggled and gaze him with soft eyes from his behind. 'Ryoma-kun is so sweet.'

At Kawamura Sushi Bar, she felt the warmth of their connections as they sang 'Happy Birthday' together. She blew out the candles, making yet another wish, but this time, it wasn't for just success or happiness; it was for moments just like this—filled with laughter, love, and the unspoken bond that connected her to Ryoma and her friends forever.

As they celebrated, Tomoka noticed the matching bracelets on their wrists and smiled warmly, recognizing the unbreakable ties between them.