As the bell rang, reverberating through the halls of Seigaku Junior High, Sakuno felt a wave of satisfaction wash over her. Standing before her students, bright-eyed and full of potential, her voice steady and warm. "That's it for today, don't forget your homework. Send it to me by Friday."
"Yes, Ryuzaki-sensei!" they chorused, a mixture of respect and affection shining in their youthful faces. With a smile, she waved them off as they rushed out of the classroom, their laughter echoing behind them.
Crossing the corridor to the teacher's office, Sakuno took a moment to appreciate how much had changed in these two years. At just 23, she had blossomed into a confident teacher, nurturing her passion for education while embracing the challenges that came with it. She rounded a corner, only to be halted by Suzuki-sensei, an elder teacher with kind eyes.
"Ryuzaki-sensei!" he called out, adjusting his glasses. "The principal is looking for you."
"Really?" Sakuno felt a flutter of curiosity mixed with a hint of apprehension. "I'll go meet him now."
After a quick knock, she entered the principal's office, her heart racing slightly. The principal welcomed her with a beaming smile, his enthusiasm infectious. "Ah, Ryuzaki-sensei, it's wonderful to see you!"
"Is there anything you wanted to ask me, Mr. Principal?" she inquired, taking a seat across from him, the file resting prominently on his desk catching her eye.
He slid the document toward her. "I have something to show you."
Sakuno's brow furrowed as she read the title: "Teacher Exchange Program." Her heart skipped a beat, and she glanced up at the principal, who nodded with encouragement. "You're familiar with the Education for Sustainable Development program, right?"
"I've heard of it," Sakuno replied cautiously. "But are you suggesting—"
"Yes! I think you would be perfect for this opportunity," he interrupted, excitement radiating from him. "Most of the other teachers here aren't interested, and your English skills are exceptional."
Sakuno blinked in disbelief. "But… I've only been teaching here for a year. Are you sure I'm the right choice?"
"Absolutely," he insisted. "The others also recommended you. The exchange would take you to the United States, and don't worry, a teacher from there would take your place here."
"US?" Her eyes widened, dreams flickering like fireflies in her mind.
"Yes! Think it over. Let me know your answer soon, okay?" The principal smiled warmly, encouraging her to explore a future she had never dared to dream.
Stepping out of the office, Sakuno leaned against the cool door, her breath hitching as she reread the file. Was this real? Could she really got the opportunity to the US?
That evening, nestled between the warmth of her family, Sakuno shared the news. Over dinner, Shinji, scrutinized the file with serious eyes before finally breaking into a smile. "Yes, you can go."
"Really, Dad?" Joy bubbled within her as she exchanged excited glances with Sayaka and Sumire. They grinned back, their approval washing over her like a comforting embrace.
"Thank you so much dad!" Sakuno hugged Shinji, feeling so happy that she couldn't even describe.
"You already did your best." Shinji continued. "We'll celebrate this tonight. Sayaka, let's cook something special for dinner."
Later, after a delightful meal filled with laughter and love, Sakuno retreated to her room, her heart swelling with anticipation. She glanced at the clock; it was morning in the US. Could she call Ryoma now?
With trembling fingers, she dialed his number, a mix of nerves and hope dancing inside her. When Ryoma picked up, his voice was like music to her ears. "Sakuno?"
"Ryoma-kun." she greeted, cheeks flushing. "I hope I'm not waking you."
"Not at all. You sound happy, what's going on?" His curiosity was palpable.
"I can go to the US," she announced, unable to contain her excitement. "There's an exchange program in school, and Dad said yes."
"Really?" His surprise was evident, but then it shifted to admiration.
"Yes." She giggled, feeling lighter than air. "But I'm not sure when I'll go yet. I'll let you know as soon as I find out."
"Okay," he said, his tone earnest.
As she hung up, a smile lingered on her face, a warmth spreading through her. Ryoma's voice wrapped around her like a soft blanket. In that moment, she felt an unbreakable connection that transcended distance.
The sun spilled through the kitchen window, illuminating the breakfast table where Ryoma sat, surrounded by the comforting familiarity of his family. His father, Nanjiro was reading a newspaper, while his mother, Rinko, busily flipped pancakes. Across from him sat Ryoga, scrolling through his phone with an air of nonchalance.
"Ryoma," Rinko broke the early morning contentment, glancing up from the skillet, "do you have training today? You woke up early."
"Yeah," Ryoma replied, absentmindedly pushing his food around on the plate, his mind drifting to the upcoming tournament and the pressure that accompanied it.
"Take a break once in a while, won't you?" Ryoga glanced up with a smirk, his casual demeanor hiding the warmth beneath.
"Steve won't let me rest," Ryoma countered, rolling his eyes. "I've got a tournament coming up. You don't join any tournaments anymore, aniki?"
Ryoga shrugged, the gesture casual but the regret lingering. "Nah, it's too boring for me now. I'm busy helping Ralph with the U17 trainees."
"Why would he ask you?" Ryoma raised an eyebrow, genuine curiosity dancing in his deep-set eyes. "Weren't you ditching the US team before?"
"Hey, chibisuke," Ryoga said, a playful grin forming, "that's an old story. I've mended things with him now, alright?"
"Whatever you say," Ryoma muttered, he barely contained a smile. "I'm heading to Japan this week," he announced, and immediately caught the glimmer of interest in his parents' eyes.
Nanjiro grinned mischievously, leaning in closer. "To meet Sakuno-chan?"
"Yeah," Ryoma replied, feeling an unexpected rush of warmth at the mere mention of her name.
Nanjiro's grin widened, his teasing playful. "Looks like she's awakened you rather than those magazines I showed you. That's my son!" He patted Ryoma's back affectionately.
"Seriously, stop with those magazines," Rinko interrupted, shooting a disapproving glance at Nanjiro.
Rinko turned her attention back to him, her voice gentle yet insistent. "How is Sakuno-chan?"
"She's good. She'll probably come to the US soon," he said, excitement bubbling in his chest. "She got into the exchange teacher program with a US school."
Rinko beamed. "That's amazing! It will be great for both of you."
Ryoga chuckled, nostalgia lacing his words. "I still remember when she said she would support you in any team you were in during the U17s. What a sweet thing to say. Now she's still by your side."
"Isn't that good? Cherish her, okay, Ryoma?" Rinko added softly, her eyes sparkling with maternal warmth.
Ryoma felt a contemplative silence wrap around him. A sudden thought hit him, and he looked up, determination etched across his face. "Maybe I need you two to go to Japan soon."
Nanjiro's mouth gaped open, his milk slipping from his lips as he coughed in surprise. Ryoga nearly dropped his glass. "For what?" they both echoed, bewilderment painting their expressions.
"To meet her parents," Ryoma stated firmly, as if it were the most natural thing in the world.
"Ryoma," Rinko leaned closer, faint disbelief coloring her tone, "do you perhaps want to propose to her?"
"Yeah," Ryoma said, the weight of his own words settling upon him, not flinching in the slightest.
"Chibisuke," Ryoga exclaimed, shaking his head in disbelief, "don't you think it's still too early to get married?"
"She will be far from her family. I want to take care of her in the US," Ryoma replied, his conviction clear. The idea settled comfortably into his mind, a feeling more profound than he had expected.
Nanjiro, ever the jokester, couldn't resist a quip. "It's not because she gets pregnant, right?"
Ryoma shot him a bored look, mildly exasperated. "What are you talking about, oyaji?"
"Yeah, it could be a huge problem; her parents will kill you," Nanjiro continued, stifling laughter at Ryoma's bemusement.
"That's stupid, it won't happen," Ryoma insisted, firm in his stance.
"How can you be so confident?" Nanjiro challenged, amusement peppering his voice.
"I'm a virgin," Ryoma declared matter-of-factly, only to have Ryoga spit out his milk in shock.
"A virgin?!" Ryoga echoed, his incredulity echoing through the kitchen, while Rinko laughed softly, her heart swelling with affection for her son.
"If you're ready, just let us know," Rinko encouraged, her voice laced with warmth. "We'll help you prepare for whatever comes next."
"Thanks mom," Ryoma replied simply, his cheeks slightly flushed as he began to stand. "I should get going now."
He left the kitchen, the weight of his family's love and support swirling around him like a comforting embrace.
Rinko smiled wistfully. "I can't believe this is finally happening."
Nanjiro chuckled, amusement flickering in his gaze. "Well, whether it's now or later, it's exciting to see him like this. Love certainly has its way of transforming a person."
The sun dipped low in the sky, casting a warm glow over Seigaku Junior High. As students filed out and the school day came to an end, Sakuno found herself at her desk, lost in thoughts about her upcoming journey. The gentle voice of the elder teacher, Suzuki-sensei, broke through her reverie.
"Ryuzaki-sensei," he asked kindly, "when are you going to the US?"
Sakuno looked up, a smile spreading across her face. "It's next month, Suzuki-sensei."
He smiled back, his eyes glimmering with affection. "We are going to miss you here."
"Me too," she replied, an unexpected wave of sadness washing over her. This place held so many memories.
As she strolled toward the school gate, the air seemed to hum with anticipation. Yet, nothing could have prepared her for what awaited her beyond the threshold. Standing before her, clad in an immaculate suit that contrasted sharply against the fading light of the day, was Ryoma.
"Ryoma-kun?" Her heart raced, and she rushed forward, grasping his hands tightly. "I thought you couldn't come to Japan for a few months."
His smile was infectious, lighting up the dimming landscape around them. "Yeah, but I doubled my training there, and my manager let me come for a bit."
She grinned widely. "Really? You must be tired."
"Not really," he replied, a teasing lilt in his voice. "Can we talk a bit?"
With a nod, they walked together to the nearby playground, their special place where laughter echoed and sweet memories lingered. They settled on a bench, the remnants of children's games filling the air with a sense of nostalgia.
"This playground sure brings back many memories," Sakuno giggled, her cheeks blooming with warmth. "We even confessed here, remember?"
Ryoma's gaze shifted from the ground to her eyes. "Yeah," he said softly. He took her hand, intertwining their fingers as if sealing a pact. "And I wish to make more memories… with you."
Sakuno's breath caught in her throat. "Ryoma-kun…"
"Sakuno, when you go to the US, let's go together."
Her heart fluttered in confusion. "Together?"
"Not as Ryuzaki," he interrupted gently. "But as Echizen."
The world around her fell silent. His words hung in the air, thick with possibility. Sakuno's eyes widened, and her cheeks flushed a deep crimson. "Ryoma-kun…"
"Sakuno, I want to take care of you for the rest of my life. Let's get married."
Tears brimmed in her eyes, and a joyful laugh escaped her lips. "Is it a yes?" His voice was steady, yet anxious.
Overwhelmed by emotion, she nodded vigorously, unable to find her voice.
"Thanks," he whispered, pulling her close into a warm embrace. "Don't cry."
Sakuno giggled through her tears, the laughter echoing under the cherry blossoms framing the playground. "I'm just so happy, Ryoma-kun."
As they walked, hand in hand, leaving the playground behind, Sakuno felt a renewed sense of purpose. They arrived at Ryuzaki's residence, and anticipation swirled in the air.
Inside, they settled side by side, facing Shinji and Sayaka, while Sumire sat across from them.
Shinji crossed his arms, his expression serious. "So, why are you here wearing that suit and looking handsome?"
Ryoma met his gaze, perfectly composed. "I'm here to ask for your daughter's hand in marriage."
Sakuno gasped, her cheeks flushing anew. Sayaka chuckled lightly, nudging her husband, made him laughed. "Don't be so stern, dear. Ryoma already told us his intentions."
"Eh," Sakuno interjected, bewildered. "Dad, you know?"
Shinji smiled patronizingly at her. "I was pretty shocked when Ryoma told me, but you're grown up now. It depends on you, Sakuno."
Looking into her father's eyes, her heart swelled. "Dad…"
Sumire added gently, "Everything is good now, don't you feel glad, Sakuno?"
"Yes." She exclaimed, tears spilling down her cheeks. Joy intertwined with disbelief filled her heart.
Ryoma turned to her, his expression softening. "I'll call my parents to come here soon."
Sakuno tilted her head, knowing the distance would be challenging. "Is it okay to ask them to come here? The US is far."
"It's fine," Ryoma reassured.
The Echizen gathered at a large table, their faces illuminated by the ceiling lamp. Rinko, with her ever-supportive demeanor, had just finished a phone call that sent ripples of excitement through the group. "Ryoma said Sakuno-chan said yes," she announced, her eyes sparkling with joy.
Nanjiro's brow furrowed slightly, but a proud smile tugged at his lips. "Really?" he mused, half-amused and half-in disbelief.
In the living room, Ryoga gaped at the news, his usual stoic expression cracking to reveal genuine shock. "Chibisuke's... getting married?" He muttered.
"Let's prepare ourselves to go to Japan now." Rinko declared, her enthusiasm infectious.
As the week passed, the Echizen and Ryuzaki family finally met. In the calm Japanese restaurant, the atmosphere crackled with excitement, yet tension softly simmered between the fathers, Nanjiro and Shinji. They regarded each other with thinly veiled irritation, a history lurking just beneath the surface.
"Tch," Shinji muttered, breaking the silence. "Why does Ryoma have to be your son?"
Nanjiro sighed dramatically, crossing his arms. "I can't believe we've become in-laws, of all things."
Sakuno looked curiously at Sumire. "Has Dad met Nanjiro-san before?"
Sumire nodded, her eyes reflecting both ridicule and concern. "They both attended Seigaku before. Something kind of happened back then…"
Nanjiro cleared his throat, cutting in. "That's enough. It's not my fault Kimiko-chan ended up wanting to go out with me."
"Yeah, right," Shinji scoffed, rolling his eyes. "You probably useless as well since she ended up cancelling the date with you."
"If that old hag hadn't hit me on the eyes with a tennis ball, the date would have gone perfectly!" Nanjiro retorted, his voice rising slightly.
Sumire's glare could pierce through stone. "Who are you calling an old hag?"
Sayaka and Rinko exchanged knowing glances as they watched the men bicker and argue like children.
"So childish", Rinko muttered, her voice echoing in the stillness of the place.
Sayaka nodded in agreement, her eyes darting between the men and then back to Rinko.
The room filled with banter, and sweat-drops formed on the foreheads of the younger generation—Sakuno and Ryoma, who found themselves sandwiched between the bickering fathers.
"Enough about Kimiko-chan, you two," Sumire said with authority, redirecting the conversation. "We're here to discuss about Ryoma and Sakuno."
Shinji cleared his throat, adjusting his seat as if to prepare for an important announcement. "Well, we don't mind much about the wedding," he began, a hint of uncertainty creeping into his voice. "It really depends on Sakuno and Ryoma."
Rinko nodded appreciatively. "Of course, as long as Sakuno-chan is happy with it, we're fine with anything. Right?"
"Of course," he replied, albeit a bit begrudgingly.
Sakuno smiled brightly, her heart racing with a mixture of love and nervousness. "Thank you, everyone." She glanced at Ryoma and smiled.
"Where will the wedding be?" Sumire inquired, breaking the growing tension.
"In Japan," Ryoma stated confidently.
Sakuno added. "Since many of our friends are from here, we thought it would be good to do it here."
"That sounds lovely," Sumire said, beaming with approval. The discussions flowed more smoothly now, laughter filling the air as they shared ideas for the wedding, increasingly united by the prospect of the union.
The discussion continued, amidst the joyful commotion. The playful banter between the fathers resumed, Sakuno glanced down at the ring adorning her finger, her heart blossomed with happiness. The delicate band sparkled under the restaurant lights, symbolizing not just their commitment but a beautifully entwined future.