In the bustling heart of LaGuardia airport, Sakuno stepped out into the vibrant chaos of New York City, the weight of her luggage almost a mirror to the fatigue etched on her face. The long journey from Japan had taken its toll, and despite her excitement, she felt drained. Her father, Shinji, sensing her exhaustion, smiled warmly. "Let's get to the hotel."
As they settled in the taxi alongside Sayaka, Sakuno gazed out at the cityscape whipping past them, her heart racing with the anticipation of this new adventure. However, once they reached their hotel and Sakuno collapsed onto the bed with a sigh, fatigue washed over her like a heavy blanket.
"I'm so tired," she confessed, letting her head sink into the plush pillows.
Sayaka exchanged an understanding look with Shinji, who offered a soft, apologetic smile. "I'm sorry, you both should rest now. I have to run to the company for a bit."
"Okay, dear. Just be careful," Sayaka replied, her maternal instincts kicking in. "Don't worry about us. We'll be fine."
Once her father left, Sayaka turned to Sakuno, her eyes twinkling with encouragement. "Look, the beach view is great, right?"
Sakuno sat up, her exhaustion momentarily forgotten as she looked out the window. "Yes!" she exclaimed. But as she turned back to her mother, another thought crossed her mind. "Mom, can I go out for a bit?"
Sayaka chuckled knowingly. "You want to find Ryoma, don't you?"
Sakuno's cheeks flushed a vivid shade of pink, and she nodded, unable to hide her excitement.
"Okay, but make sure you turn on your phone, and call me if anything happens," Sayaka reminded her, concern lacing her voice.
"I will, Mom!" Sakuno beamed as she hurriedly showered and changed into a light summer dress paired with a cardigan. After carefully applying some light makeup and styling her hair, she was ready. Slinging her small bag over her shoulder, she called out, "I'm going now, Mom!"
"Call me when you meet Ryoma!" Sayaka urged as Sakuno dashed out into the lively streets of New York.
As she wandered through the city, the energy buzzing around her filled her with exhilaration. She navigated through a sea of people, admiration filling her heart. She took out her phone and scrolled through her contacts until she found Ryoma's name. Should she call him? What if he was too busy training? Suddenly, she spotted a tennis court nearby, its nets fluttering in the wind, and she couldn't help but admire it.
Just then, Sakuno heard a voice behind her. "Hey, there's a cutie here!" One of two men approached her with a confident smirk, fierce eyes sizing her up.
"What are you doing here alone, cutie?" the blonde added, clearly not taking a hint.
Sakuno's heart raced as she felt an uncomfortable tension rise. She bowed slightly, murmuring "I'm sorry" in simple English, desperate to escape their gaze. But before she could step away, one of them grabbed her arm.
"Where are you going? Come with us; it would be fun," he insisted.
"No!" Sakuno shouted, her voice trembling but resolute. Fear gripped her, and she clutched her phone tightly, searching for a way out.
Just then, a tennis ball flew out of nowhere and struck the man's cheek. "Oh, sorry! My hands slipped!" a deep voice called out.
Sakuno turned to see a tall guy with dark greenish hair and piercing golden eyes, wearing a hoodie. In the blink of an eye, he had volleyed another tennis ball, this time hitting the blonde guy's hand, causing him to recoil in pain.
The two men, startled and frightened, bolted away, leaving Sakuno shaken yet relieved.
'Amazing! He's strong, just like Ryoma-kun,' she thought, awestruck by the stranger's skills.
The guy turned to her, a curious look on his face. "Are you okay?"
Sakuno flinched, bowing her head slightly. "Thank you so much," she blurted out in Japanese, then quickly corrected herself. "I mean, thank you!" She said in English.
"I speak Japanese too," he replied, revealing a friendly smile. "You're Japanese, right?"
"Yes!" she exclaimed, surprised he could communicate so well. "You are too?"
He pulled down his hood, revealing more of his striking features. "Wait, I think I recognize you. You were at the U17 tournament in Australia, right? Ryoma's girlfriend?"
"Oh, aren't you Ryoma-kun's big brother?" Then she suddenly felt her face burning as she stammered, "I wasn't his girlfriend—"
"Wasn't? That means you are now? I'm Ryoga by the way." Ryoga teased, his laughter ringing through the air.
Sakuno was about to protest again when her attention was diverted by a group of glamorous girls nearby.
"Ryoga, will you be longer?" one asked, eyeing Sakuno curiously.
"Who's that girl?" another chimed in.
Ryoga rolled his eyes. "Sorry, ladies, I can't hang out anymore. I have to take my sister somewhere." They pouted but eventually wandered off.
Turning back to Sakuno, Ryoga said, "So, you're looking for Ryoma?"
"Yeah," she admitted shyly, her heart fluttering at the mention of his name.
"I'll take you to him," Ryoga offered.
"Eh? Is that okay?" Sakuno hesitated, glancing at his expensive car.
Ryoga chuckled, "Of course! Ryoma's girlfriend is like my sister too. Let's go; I know where he is."
Sakuno nodded, her heart pounding, and climbed into the car, amazed by the luxury around her. As they drove to the US National Campus, anticipation bubbled within her.
Arriving at the training facility, Ryoga led her inside. "This is where he trains," he explained. "Don't worry; I'm one of the staff here."
Sakuno watched in awe as they approached the courts, spotting Ryoma practicing fiercely against a formidable opponent. Her breath hitched in her throat. He looked incredible, sweat glistening on his brow, every movement fluid and powerful.
"Isn't he amazing?" Ryoga asked softly, glancing at her.
Sakuno nodded, a dreamy smile spreading across her face. "He's the most charming when he plays tennis."
Ryoga chuckled, a knowing smile crossing his lips. 'Looks like Chibisuke really has found the one.'
Sakuno stood nervously beside Ryoga, they walked to his car, the warm sun casting playful shadows across their faces. Ryoga glanced at her, his brows furrowed with concern.
"Are you sure you won't meet him?" he asked, tilting his head slightly, trying to gauge her feelings.
She nodded, the vibrant blush on her cheeks deepening. "It's okay. I don't want to bother him."
Ryoga smiled, sensing her hesitation. "Then why not come to our house? You can wait for him there."
"Eh?" Sakuno stuttered, her heart racing at the unexpected invitation. "I… I don't want to trouble anyone."
"You're not trouble at all!" Ryoga insisted. "Ryoma will be happy to see you. Come on."
With a hesitant breath, Sakuno relented. "Well, okay."
As they arrived at the bungalow, Sakuno's eyes widened in awe. The house was quaint and charming, with blooming flowers framing the walkway. She followed Ryoga inside, where the familiar scent of home-cooked meals welcomed them.
"I'm back," Ryoga announced, pushing the door open wide.
"Oh, you're back?" Rinko called from the living room. Her voice carried warmth and affection that wrapped around Sakuno like a comforting quilt.
"Yeah, I brought someone," Ryoga replied casually, but the glimmer in his eyes betrayed his excitement.
Rinko's head whipped around, eyes widening in surprise. "You brought someone?!" She quickly made her way to the entrance, and when her gaze fell upon Sakuno, her mouth dropped open. "Oh my, Ryoga! A girl? Are you finally settling down?"
Ryoga rolled his eyes, feigning boredom. "It's not me, Mom. It's Chibisuke."
"You mean Ryoma's girlfriend?" Rinki asked.
Sakuno's heart fluttered at the question. "I'm Sakuno Ryuzaki. I'm sorry for the intrusion," she offered, bowing slightly.
"Ryuzaki?" Rinko mused, a grin spreading across her face. "Are you perhaps Ryuzaki-sensei's granddaughter?"
"Yes, I am," Sakuno said, her voice soft.
"Oh, please come in! I just finished making lunch. Would you join us?" Rinko beckoned, her eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.
Sakuno waved her hands, shaking her head. "It's okay; I don't want to trouble you."
"What an adorable and polite girl," Rinko exclaimed, taking Sakuno by the hand and leading her to the dining table. "I made enough for everyone. Come on!"
Reluctantly, Sakuno let herself be guided, Ryoga trailing behind. When they sat down, she noticed Nanjiroh, Ryoma's father, lounging at the table.
"Oh, I know you," he said with a smirk. "Long time no see."
Rinko asked, "you met her before?"
"The old hag used to have me train her back in Japan. Well, I usually sent Ryoma though." Said Nanjiroh with snickered.
Sakuno blushed, her face burning as she bowed her head. "Long time no see, Uncle Nanjiroh."
Rinko eyed Sakuno with renewed curiosity. "So tell me, how long have you and Ryoma been dating?"
Sakuno felt the heat rush to her face, her heart racing. "Uh, um…"
Nanjiroh raised an eyebrow. "Wait, you two are dating?"
"Come on. Let her eat first." Said Ryoga.
"I'm sorry, I just too excited!" Rinko chirped, cutting through the awkwardness. Sakuno joined in the laughter, feeling more at ease as they shared a meal of delicious Western dishes.
After lunch, they migrated to the living room, where Rinko turned the conversation back to Sakuno. "So, are you really dating Ryoma?"
A timid nod was all she mustered, the blush returning with vengeance. "Yes, it's only been recently."
Rinko beamed, her joy infectious. "Oh my! I thought both my sons would stay single forever!"
"You must be bored dating someone stoic as him." Said Nanjiroh.
Sakuno smiled back, her heart swelling with happiness at their acceptance. "Not at all. He's kind and very understanding. He always helped me and gave me motivation to do better," she admitted shyly, a smile breaking through.
Rinko and Nanjiroh exchanged a look of astonishment mixed with admiration, while Ryoga simply grinned, clearly pleased with their reaction.
"Sakuno-chan, you must be tired from all the traveling. Why don't you go rest in Ryoma's room until he gets back?" Rinko suggested, patting her arm gently.
"Oh, is it okay?" Sakuno asked, nervousness creeping back into her voice.
"Of course! Let me show you his room," Rinko replied, leading her upstairs.
As Rinko opened the door to Ryoma's room, Sakuno felt a rush of emotions. The room was modest, a reflection of its occupant, with a bed clad in dark blue sheets and shelves lined with tennis trophies. She stepped inside, her heart racing with anticipation.
"Have some rest, okay?" Rinko said warmly before leaving.
"Thank you, Aunt Rinko," Sakuno murmured, overwhelmed.
She glanced around, her eyes landing on a desk with two tennis balls. Picking them up, she noticed intricate doodles etched into the surface. One captured her essence in a way that made her smile, and she took a moment to snap a photo with her phone—an invisible thread binding her to Ryoma even when they were apart.
"Oh! I almost forgot—I should call Mom," Sakuno remembered, dialing.
"Mom," she said when her mother picked up.
"Sakuno, thank goodness. I got so worried when you didn't answer your phone." She said with worry tone.
"I'm sorry mom. I'm at Ryoma-kun's house… still waiting for him to get back from training."
Sayaka's voice was a soothing balm over the phone. "Is his family home?"
"Yes, I had lunch with them; they're really nice!" Sakuno replied, pride lacing her words.
"Send my regards to them. By the way, your father and I are planning to watch a theater play tonight. You'll be back before then, right?"
"Of course, Mom. I'll be back," she assured her.
After hanging up, Sakuno felt a sense of solitude enveloping the room, broken only by the gentle sound of purring. She opened the door to find Karupin, Ryoma's cat, looking up at her with curious eyes.
"Hi there!" she greeted, scooping him into her arms. "Are you looking for Ryoma-kun? He's not back yet."
Karupin meowed softly, settling comfortably against her chest. Sakuno laid down on the bed, the warmth of the sun spilling through the window mixing with the faint scent of Ryoma. It enveloped her, and she felt an overwhelming comfort wash over her.
As she drifted off to sleep, she didn't realize how tired she was until the world faded into dreams. Thoughts of Ryoma filled her mind and their laughter echoing in her heart.
Ryoma stepped through the front door of his family home, backpack slung over his shoulder. After a grueling training session, he was finally ready to unwind. His mother, Rinko, looked up from her spot in the living room with a warm smile that illuminated the otherwise simple space.
"Oh Seishounen, you're finally back! Your girlfriend is here!" Nanjiroh announced with snickered.
Ryoma blinked, confusion etched across his forehead. "What girlfriend?" he asked, pushing his damp hair back. He still believed Sakuno was miles away in Hokkaido.
Rinko's smile widened. "Go take a look; she's in your room."
Suddenly struck by a mix of emotions, Ryoma dashed upstairs, his heart racing as he opened his bedroom door silently. There, on his bed, lay Sakuno, her gentle breaths filling the air with an aura of tranquility, with Karupin sleeping besides her. She was here, and he couldn't believe it. While he stood frozen in place, Nanjiroh, his father, subtly crept up the stairs too.
"Dear, what are you trying to do?" Rinko whispered as she followed him.
"Shhh," Nanjiroh replied, placing a finger over his lips, eyes twinkling with mischief. Ryoga, walked out of his room, raising an eyebrow at the scene before him.
With a soft resolve, Ryoma set his tennis bag aside and approached Sakuno. Gently, he covered her with a blanket, admiring the peacefulness of her sleeping form. He brushed a few strands of hair away from her face, awash in disbelief and fondness. Just then, Nanjiroh, Rinko, and Ryoga peeked into the room, their astonishment palpable as they witnessed a tender side of Ryoma they rarely saw.
When Ryoma turned, his gaze was sharp. They flinched and quickly retreated, faces flushed. But the moment was already imprinted in their minds—a private glimpse into the love blossoming between Ryoma and Sakuno.
Ryoma took clean clothes from his wardrobe and took his towel quietly. He quietly went to the bathroom across his room.
As he tiptoed back to his room after a quick shower, water droplets still clung to his hair. He felt a sudden rush of nerves, but there was an undeniable excitement brewing within him. When he stepped inside, Ryoma found Sakuno stirring awake, her eyes slowly focusing on him.
"Ryoma-kun," she murmured, her voice still thick with sleep.
He smiled, unable to hide his joy. "You're finally awake."
"I fell asleep? What time is it?" she gasped, scrambling for her phone and blinking in disbelief at the hour displayed.
"Don't worry about it," he reassured her, sitting beside her on the bed. "More importantly, why are you here in the States?"
Sakuno blushed, tucking her disheveled hair behind her ear. "My dad suddenly got a work assignment here, so he brought us along."
Ryoma's heart sank a little, wishing he could have known sooner. "I see," he replied softly. "How did you get here?"
"I met Ryoga-san, and he brought me here," she recounted, a shy smile crossing her lips.
"You should've told me." Concern laced his tone.
"I'm sorry," she said, a hint of guilt creeping into her voice. "I didn't want to interrupt your training."
As if compelled by an invisible thread linking their hearts, Ryoma took her hand in his, warmth radiating between them. "I missed you."
Sakuno's cheeks flushed a rosy hue. "I missed you too."
And just like that, they leaned closer, surrendering to a moment that felt suspended in time. Their lips met in a soft kiss, each heartbeat echoing with burgeoning passion. Ryoma pulled Sakuno closer, their breath mingling and forming a perfect harmony in the silence of the room.
After breaking apart, Sakuno glanced anxiously at her watch. "Oh no! I can't be here long; my parents are taking me to a theater soon."
"Do you go often?" Ryoma inquired, trying to mask the sudden pang of disappointment.
"Only when Dad's free," she explained, a wistful note in her voice.
"Then I'll send you to the hotel," he offered, wanting to ensure her safety.
Sakuno considered him for a moment. "It's really okay. You must be tired."
"I'm not. Let's take a walk together too since you already here," he insisted, his determination softening his tone.
With her heart fluttering, Sakuno nodded in agreement. Ryoma grabbed his jacket, and together they ventured downstairs.
"Mom, I'm taking Ryuzaki to the hotel," Ryoma announced, meeting his mother's curious eyes.
"Oh really?" Rinko responded, a sad looked shown on her face. "I thought you'd spend the night here."
Sakuno bowed politely, thanking Rinko for her hospitality. The warmth of Rinko's hug enveloped Sakuno, leaving her feeling welcome and cherished.
"By the way, Ryoma, you guys are dating, don't call her Ryuzaki. You should call her first name." Said Rinko, glared at Ryoma.
Sakuno blushed and stammered, "I-it's okay."
Ryoma scratched his head and then said, "Let's go then, Sakuno."
Sakuno blushed more and Rinko grinned with satisfaction.
As they stepped outside, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. Ryoga, who had just returned from a quick errand, found them. "Oh going back already? Let me drive you!" he exclaimed, offering his assistance.
Ryoma squeezed Sakuno's hand as they entered the car, his heart racing at every challenge and triumph they faced along the way.
Once they reached the hotel, Ryoga left them for some privacy. Ryoma pointed to a serene beach nearby, where the sunset painted the horizon in hues of orange and pink. "Want to take a walk there?" he asked.
Sakuno couldn't contain her excitement. "Yes!" she replied, her eyes sparkling like stars.
They kicked off their shoes and wandered along the shore, toes dipping into the cool water. Sakuno giggled, looking over at Ryoma. "It's beautiful," she breathed, enthralled by the sight before them.
"Yeah, beautiful," he echoed, but his gaze was fixed on her. The world around them blurred, leaving only the reality of their shared experience.
Leaning closer, Ryoma pressed a gentle kiss on her lips once more. Sakuno's heart raced, and she whispered, "What if someone sees us?"
Ryoma chuckled, brushing the hair from her face tenderly. "There's no one here."
With a soft laugh, Sakuno wrapped her arms around Ryoma's waist, lost in the embrace of their secret world.
They continued their stroll, holding hands until Sakuno reluctantly broke the spell, glancing back at the time. "I should go now. My parents will be waiting," she said, hesitation hanging between them.
"I understand," Ryoma replied, though they both lingered in the moment, fingers reluctant to part.
But eventually, they released their hold, stepping back into reality. Sakuno waved goodbye, her heart heavy yet filled with hope. As Ryoma watched her walk away, he felt a piece of himself drift with her, leaving him yearning for the next chance they would have to meet again.
"Until next time," he whispered into the breeze, watching until she became a mere silhouette against the dusk. That day marked a new chapter in their lives—one filled with love, longing, and the promise of many sunsets to come.