The sun hung high in the cerulean sky, casting a warm embrace over the church. Outside, the air buzzed with excitement, as guests gathered to witness a union that would intertwine lives and legacies. The gentle chime of the church bells melded with laughter and chatter, echoing through the serene surroundings.
Standing at the entrance were the Echizen and Ryuzaki families, their faces illuminated by joy. Nanjiro welcomed the guests as if they were old friends, while Rinko held a bouquet of vibrant flowers, her smile radiating warmth. Sumire, Shinji and Sayaka also there smiling, eager to greet everyone who approached.
As the crowd grew, Sumire's gaze landed on a familiar figure. "Oh! Haritatsu!" she exclaimed, spotting the old stringer whose bald head shone in the sunlight. "You still look the same!"
Haritatsu chuckled softly, a twinkle in his eyes. "And you, Sumire, just as radiant as ever." His gaze shifted to Nanjiro, the corners of his mouth lifting in a sincere smile. "Nanoji, it's been so long."
"Old man, you are here." Nanjiro smiled.
The old man's laughter mingled with theirs. "Of course. I've been smelling this wedding in the air since Sakuno started bringing Ryoma's racket to my shop to fix. It's a wonder how destiny weaves its threads. Who would've thought you both end up as family?"
Sumire laughed, shaking her head. "Neither did us."
As they exchanged stories and laughter, the former tennis regulars began to trickle in like a wave of nostalgia crashing upon the shore. Oishi was the first to arrive, followed closely by the smiling Fuji, the boisterous Momoshiro, the fierce Kaidoh, the gentle Takashi, and the analytical Inui.
Moments later, the lively atmosphere escalated when Momoshiro and Kaidoh both moved forward, placing gift money on the table with synchronized precision. A tense silence fell over their companions as the attendant moved to collect Kaidoh's contribution first.
"Hey! I put mine down first!" Momo interjected, waving his hands dramatically, earning the ire of Kaidoh, who shot him a glare.
"It doesn't matter who was first, idiot!" Kaidoh retorted, fists clenched by his sides.
"It does matter, because I'm much closer to Echizen—my gift should go first!" Momoshiro protested, crossing his arms defiantly.
"You think only you close with him?" Kaidoh hissed, narrowing his eyes.
Their bickering transformed the lighthearted gathering into a scene of competitive energy. Oishi stepped in to mediate, his calm demeanor shining through. "Guys, let's not start a fight here of all places."
Inui observed the spectacle with an amused smirk. "It's surprising they even manage to coexist in the same company," he noted, referring to their antics.
Fuji chuckled lightly. "It feels just like old times." He nudged Takashi playfully, slipping a racket into his outstretched hand.
As if flipping a switch, Takashi took on a theatrical persona. "Burrrnnnniingggg! How shameless of you two to bicker during a wedding! Move aside; I'm here with the most delicious sushi delivery for the guests!"
A collective sweat drop fell from their foreheads as they all observed the chaos unfold. Even amidst the bickering and camaraderie, a shared nostalgia warmed their hearts, a reminder of countless matches and friendships forged through sweat and determination.
"Please, everyone, calm down," Oishi urged again, scanning the crowd with eyes full of concern. "I wonder where Eiji is."
Sumire chuckled, watching the dynamic unfold. She made her way to the group, her always-bright smile reflecting the happiness around them. "You guys never change, do you? Hurry up and go meet Ryoma. The wedding will start soon!"
"Yes, we should hurry!" Oishi agreed, rallying the group. They all rushed towards the groom's room, excitement coursing through them as they prepared to give their support to Ryoma.
Ryoma dressed in a stunning blue wedding suit, he stood before the mirror, his heart racing, not from nerves, but from the joy bubbling within him.
As he adjusted his hair, a swift knock on the door interrupted his focused moment. Opening it, he was greeted by his loyal senpai, all of them wearing smiles that matched the glittering occasion.
"Senpai-tachi," Ryoma greeted them, his expression softening. "You're all here."
Oishi stepped forward, clapping Ryoma on the shoulder. "Echizen, congrats! Wow, you look good!"
Momoshiro couldn't contain his energy. "I can't believe you're getting married before all of us!"
Fuji, ever the composed one, added, "Congratulations, Echizen."
"Thanks," Ryoma replied, feeling warmth spread through him at their support. Kaidoh nodded, mumbling his own congrats, while Inui scribbled notes about the event, an almost celebratory spark in his eyes.
In a flash, Oishi pulled out his phone, initiating a video call. The familiar face of their beloved captain, Tezuka, flickered onto the screen, and everyone gathered closer, anticipation mounting.
"Here, Echizen." Oishi handed the phone to Ryoma, who accepted it with a grin.
"Buchou…" he breathed, his heart swelling at the sight of his captain.
Momoshiro piped up, "Captain, it's been so long!"
Tezuka nodded, his expression serious yet warm. "I'm in France for Roland Garros now," he explained. His gaze shifted to Ryoma. "Are you still going for tennis matches?"
"Of course," Ryoma answered, letting his passion for the sport shine through.
"Let's meet at Wimbledon soon," Tezuka said, a hint of a smile gracing his lips. "And congratulations on your wedding, Echizen. Do not let your guard down." The familiar phrases made all of them smiled.
With that, Tezuka's image faded from the screen, leaving echoes of camaraderie behind.
Suddenly, another unmistakable presence filled the room as Eiji burst in, his grin infectious. "Hoi hoi, everyone!"
Oishi chuckled. "Eiji, you finally made it!"
"Yeah, I was busy managing a top celebrity, you know. I just came back from the last schedule for today." Eiji replied, puffing out his chest with pride.
Ryoma raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "You manage a celebrity, Eiji-senpai?"
"I joined the industry to meet the Chocolates Group," Eiji explained, "but since they already disband, I ended up managing the new top celebrity. Ochibi, you know him too—aren't you best buddies?"
Ryoma's confusion deepened until a blonde-haired figure strolled into the room.
Momoshiro's eyes widened. "Isn't he the top celebrity now? Kei?!"
"Oh, it's you," Ryoma said, recognizing Heisuke with a slight smirk.
Heisuke shot him an annoyed look. "I didn't come here for you, okay? I came to ensure Ryuzaki is happy."
Ryoma showed a feigning boredom. "Yeah, suit yourself."
"Take care of her," Heisuke insisted, his voice firm yet affectionate. "She's like my own sister. Make sure she is happy. And, congrats, Echizen." Heisuke extended his fist towards Ryoma, a silent gesture of respect and trust.
Ryoma smirked and moved his hand to meet Heisuke's, making a fist bump.
Cheers erupted amongst the group, and just then, thumping noise from outside caught their attention. Curiosity sparked as they dashed to the window and gasped at the sight of a helicopter landing outside.
"What is that?" Momoshiro exclaimed, his eyes wide with disbelief.
They rushed outside to find a spectacle, tennis players from rival schools like Fudomine, St. Rudolph, Hyotei and Yamabuki had gathered, led by none other than Keigo Atobe, who descended the helicopter steps with a flair only he could muster. He capped his usual theatricality with an air of grandeur. "Echizen, be awed by my presence!"
Ryoma looked at him, boringly unimpressed. "Is it really necessary? You could just use the road."
Atobe snapped his fingers dramatically and landed right in front of Ryoma, striking a pose. "I can't do that on a special day. Congrats, by the way."
A soft chuckle escaped Ryoma at the absurdity of it all. Surrounded by friends and rivalries, he felt a warmth enveloping him, a sense of belonging that transcended competition.
The sun streamed through the narrow windows of the bride's room, illuminating the delicate lace of Sakuno's wedding dress. Tomoka and Ai stood by her side, wide-eyed with wonder as they took in the stunning sight of their friend. The lace arms of the dress flowed gracefully, matching the ethereal aura that surrounded Sakuno. Her hair was styled elegantly, adorned with tiny flowers that captured the essence of spring.
"Sakuno, you look really pretty!" Tomoka exclaimed, her voice filled with genuine admiration.
Ai nodded enthusiastically, a bright smile lighting up her face. "Yes, very much! You're breathtaking!"
"Thank you, you both," Sakuno replied, her cheeks flushed with bashful delight.
Ai added, "it's too bad Ume can't see you today. She was really looking forward to this."
"Should we call her?" suggested Tomoka, optimism glimmering in her eyes.
Sakuno shook her head gently. "It's okay; didn't she say today is the preliminary for the dancing competition?"
Ai sighed, nodding. "Yeah, it's too bad."
Changing the subject, Tomoka grinned at Ai, her teasing nature surfacing. "So, Ai, are you really going to sing with Ookami later?"
Ai's cheeks turned a bright red. "Well, yeah… he's the one who asked me earlier," she admitted shyly, a sparkle in her eyes.
"Good for you, Ai-chan." Sakuno encouraged, her heart swelling for her friend.
Just then, a gentle knock on the door interrupted the moment. Shiba peeked in with a bright smile. "Hi, Sakuno-chan! Long time no see!"
Sakuno beamed at him. "Shiba-san!"
Tomoka explained with excitement, "Shiba-san is my team leader. We're going to take lots of pictures today!"
"Congratulations, Sakuno! It looks like your cheering really reached Ryoma-kun, huh?" Shiba said, an amused grin appearing on her face as she glanced between Sakuno and the door.
Sakuno felt heat rise to her cheeks, laughter escaping her lips.
Before they could continue, Sumire peeked in, her expression shifting from surprise to urgency. "Oh, you all are here! Sakuno, it's time!"
Sakuno's heart raced, nervousness bubbling in her stomach. She took a deep, calming breath, feeling the warmth of her friends' encouragement envelop her. Standing up, she smoothed the fabric of her dress and picked up the bouquet of flowers, their sweetness contrasting with her fluttering anxiety.
As she approached the door, the world outside seemed to fade away. Shinji stood waiting, his eyes glistening with unshed tears. "Sakuno…" His voice trembled, overwhelmed by the sight of his daughter in her wedding attire.
"Dad…" Sakuno felt her own eyes welling up.
Shinji chuckled softly, wiping his tears with the back of his hand. "I'm sorry. It's just that my daughter looks really pretty right now."
Sakuno's heart swelled with love for her father. "Thank you, Dad." She tried to blink back her emotions, not wanting her father to worry.
"Don't cry; you're going to mess up your makeup," Shinji said, his tone both playful and serious. "Today is a happy day; let's smile a lot." He carefully dabbed at her eyes with a tissue, erasing the evidence of her tears.
With newfound courage, Sakuno smiled through the haze of her emotions. "Are you ready to meet Ryoma?" Shinji asked, his voice softening.
She nodded, determination flaring within her.
Ryoma stood at the altar, nerves twisting in his stomach. His gaze was fixed on the closed door ahead. He could hear the soft murmurs of the guests behind him—friends, family, and loved ones all gathered to witness this pivotal moment.
Suddenly, a small figure ambled toward him, breaking Ryoma from his reverie. Nanako's three-year-old son, his tiny suit adorably oversized, was making his way down the aisle, a pillow clasped tightly in his hands. His innocence drew smiles from the guests; the atmosphere lightened as they cooed at the cute ring bearer. Ryoga, grinning widely, knelt to ruffle the boy's hair, his heart swelling with joy as he took the ring from the pillow and positioned himself behind Ryoma.
Then, like the unfurling of a flower, the doors opened, and a radiant light spilled forth, illuminating the figure of Sakuno. She stepped into view, her ethereal wedding gown flowing around her like wisps of cloud. Gasps rippled through the audience, she looked breath-taking. Even Ryoma found his breath hitch in his throat; it was as though time itself had paused the moment their eyes met.
Sakuno felt a flutter of nerves as she walked closer, the sea of faces blurring into the background until only Ryoma remained in focus. Her heart raced as she caught sight of Hiro and Yuna seated together, even Horio, Katsuo and Kachiro made their time to come, their encouraging smiles buoying her courage.
Beside her, Shinji gently took her hand, guiding her forward. The familial bond was evident as Shinji smiled down at Sakuno, proud yet protective. "Take good care of her," he whispered to Ryoma, his voice thick with emotion. Ryoma nodded solemnly, an unspoken promise resting between them as he accepted Sakuno's hand in his own.
The officiant began with a warm welcome, his voice echoing gently in the church. As Ryoma and Sakuno faced each other, their fingers intertwined, a tranquil aura enveloped them. The officiant turned to Ryoma, his voice resonating through the air, "Do you, Echizen Ryoma, take Ryuzaki Sakuno to be your lawful wedded wife, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?"
"I do," Ryoma replied, his voice steady, filled with conviction.
Then, the officiant turned to Sakuno. "Do you, Ryuzaki Sakuno, take Echizen Ryoma to be your lawful wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better or for worse, for richer or poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death do you part?"
With a bright smile that chased away her apprehension, she answered, "I do."
"By the authority vested in me, I now pronounce you husband and wife. You may now exchange rings and kiss the bride." The officiant's voice rang out like a bell, marking the pivotal moment.
Ryoga stepped forward, presenting the rings with a flourish, and Ryoma gently slid one onto Sakuno's finger. Next, Sakuno mirrored the act, placing the simple band onto Ryoma's hand. They leaned closer, hearts synchronizing as their lips met for the first time as husband and wife. The kiss was sweet, a promise sealed with warmth and hope.
Applause erupted from the guests, a symphony of joy echoing within the walls. Shinji swiped at tears in the corners of his eyes, prompting a soft chuckle from Sayaka, who sat beside him, trying to calm him down. Families smiled proudly, reflecting on their shared joy, the beginnings of new chapters.
Once outside under the arching trees, guests began to mingle, laughter drifting on the gentle breeze. Shiba busied herself setting up a camera stand, her excitement palpable. "Alright, everyone, get ready!" she called out, a joyful glint in her eye as she glanced at the pair. Ryoma squeezed Sakuno's hand, her cheeks flushing a deeper shade of pink as they prepared for the snapshot.
With a quick dash, Shiba positioned herself within the frame, and the camera clicked, capturing their moment.
Then, Heisuke and Ai made their way to the piano. Heisuke adjusted the microphone while Ai struck loving notes on the keys. Their voices harmonized beautifully, singing Kenta Kodera's "Man of Destiny," pulling everyone into the moment. The melody wrapped around the group, weaving through the laughter and chatter as the guests listened in rapt attention.
I'm so happy, I'm overflowing with happiness. My feelings for you grow stronger every day. We always fight, but you're always in my mind.
The ever-changing streets, the ever-changing scenery, the ever-falling petals. There are so many fleeting things in this world, but our love never fades.
You change my life, baby. I've been looking for you forever. I love you. So stay with me forever. I don't know what's going to happen in the future between you and me, but I promise you from my heart. I'll keep loving you.
I promise you from my heart. l won't let go of your hand, I promise you from my heart. So believe in me, I'll make you happy
In my arms, I fall into a deep sleep, Just looking at your sleeping face, Always heals me, I can't help but think "time stop"
The wide blue sky, The shining stars, The rainbow after the rain, As if there are things in this world that last forever, Our love will never change
You change my life baby, I want you to support me forever, Don't worry, I'lll make you smile forever
I promise you from my heart, I won't make you sad, I promise you from my heart, I'll protect you, Promise you from my heart, So believe in me, I'll make you happy.
As Ai and Heisuke's voice floated gracefully over the notes, Ryoma and Sakuno shared glances that spoke volumes—smile, affection, a promise of forever. Shiba, peering through the lens of the camera, caught those perfect moments, their happiness radiating like sunlight breaking through clouds.