Fic: An Unexpected Reunion (Oneshot--TezRyo)
Okay...
I was supposed to place this in Ff.net but my procrastination habit struck back so I placed the FujiRyo oneshot there instead.
I got inspired to write this when I watched Sakura Wars or Sakura Taisen, which is an anime. [To those who are not familiar with it, the story took place in Tokyo during the fictional Taisho period. It's kind of like Gintama (which is set during the Edo period) but this is a bit serious than Gintama.] Weird source of inspiration, huh?
Oh well, I also admit I was inspired to write this from Viewfinder or Finder Series, a Yamane Ayano manga. [ I've also heard the drama CDs and to my amazement, Asami's voice is Koyasu Takehito. OMG! Love it... *drools* But still, I love Morikawa's voice. But please don't remind me of Gin no Requiem. (I cried buckets when I heard the drama CDs. Sheesh! I really hated Morikawa's role (Lucien) here but at least, he deserves it after all he did to poor Kira. He deserves to be insane forever. Mwahahahahaha!)]
Back to the oneshot, this is an alternate universe story where Ryoma is a famous photographer while Tezuka is the news editor of Kantou Daily Tribune (I made up the name; but if there's really Kantou Daily Tribune, I change it immediately.).
There will be a lot of flashbacks to explain a few things. But still just ask me if you're confused or something.
So I present you my TezRyo oneshot entitled...An Unexpected Reunion.
Disclaimer: I don't own the Prince of Tennis series. I'm not that rich.
Warning: This is a very long oneshot so take care of your eyes. Also, the characters here might not be in their usual character.
This means flashbacks.
This means thoughts.
"This" means airport announcement.
AN UNEXPECTED REUNION
“I have made it an observation since our absence, that we are much fonder of the pictures of those we love when they are at a great distance than when they are near us. It seems to me as if the farther they are removed their pictures grow the more finished, and acquire a greater resemblance; or at least our imagination, which perpetually figures them to us by the desire we have of seeing them again, makes us think so. By a peculiar power love can make that seem life itself which, as soon as the loved object returns, is nothing but a little canvas and flat color.”
-Excerpts from Héloise's 2nd letter to Peter Abelard
“Flight 767 for Paris, France is already boarding. To all passengers...”
Yukimura Seiichi and his long-time partner, Sanada Genichirou were standing quietly at the waiting lobby amidst of the noise from the people around them.
“Are you sure that he is in this flight?” Sanada glanced enquiringly at Yukimura, who was looking for someone among the passengers.
“Of course. After all, I was the one who booked this flight,” Yukimura replied, starting to get worried. “Ah, there he is!” He waved at a tall bespectacled young man who just came out of the boarding door. “Ryoma! We are here.”
Ryoma seemed to notice them as he waved at them and walked towards them. “Sei-chan! Sanada-san! I didn't expect the two of you will come here.” He smiled faintly at them.
Yukimura embraced him tightly. “Mou, Ryoma. Just because you won some awards on that atrocious hobby of yours, that doesn't mean I won't come here to greet you.”
“Hai, hai.” Ryoma slowly removed himself from his cousin's embrace. “So how's the business?”
“Still doing well.” The three of them came out of the building.
“You two better stay here. I'm going to get our car.” Sanada left Ryoma and Yukimura outside.
While waiting for their car to arrive, Ryoma shivered a bit as he felt the crisp cold air from winter. “How many years has passed since I left Japan, Sei-chan?” He glanced at Yukimura with sadness in his eyes.
Yukimura frowned. “Ryo-chan, I--” They were distracted by their car's horn.
He glanced at his cousin. “Shall we get in then?”
Ryoma sighed as he and Yukimura went inside the car. Minutes later, they drove off. While on their way home, Yukimura smiled as he saw Ryoma sleeping serenely at the back seat.
“I'm glad that he's still capable of sleeping like that.” He leaned snugly at his seat. “Ne, Genichirou. Do you know the reason why Ryoma left Japan?” Sanada shook his head.
“Someone broke his heart. He never told me who did it but when he left here for abroad, he became more aloof and apathetic than before,” Yukimura said in a wistful tone.
Sanada muttered. “I thought he’s always that apathetic when I first met him.”
Yukimura chuckled softly. “No. Ryoma has his soft side but he rarely shows it to others.” He smiled wistfully. “It must have hurt him a lot when he has to let go of his feelings for him.”
“Him? Echizen fell in love with a guy?” Sanada raised a surprised brow at him..
“Yes. Even I was surprised when I know about that and the person whom he fell in love with.” Yukimura gazed back at the sleeping Ryoma. “I do have doubts on their relationship at first; but every time I saw Ryoma coming in the house with a sparkle in his eyes or a faint smile on his face, I kept on telling myself that I won’t interfere. Yet on that day…” His thoughts went back on that day.
~~*~~
Yukimura was coming downstairs when he saw Ryoma closing the door.
“Ryo-chan! How is your…” He trailed off when he saw Ryoma’s tear-glistened eyes. “Were you crying?”
Ryoma quickly wiped away his tears with his arm. “N-no. This is nothing. Something got into my eyes. That's all.” He averted from Yukimura's stern gaze. “I have to change, Sei-chan. Tell Martha-san that I won't be coming down for dinner.” He climbed upstairs without looking back at his cousin.
Yukimura reluctantly left him alone and went to the dining room.
~~*~~
After dinner, he quickly went to Ryoma's room. He was about to knock the door when he heard soft sobs inside. He opened the door and saw his cousin, trembling at the corner of his room.
“Ryoma!!” Yukimura knelt beside him, trying to comfort him. “What are you trying to do to yourself?”
Ryoma glanced up hesitantly. “Sei-chan?”
Yukimura shook him hard. “Ryoma, you have to pull yourself together. Tell me who did this to you.”
Ryoma broke into tears again. “I have to do that to him, Sei-chan. I have no choice. I have to--” He buried his face at Yukimura's lap, trying to stop his tears.
“Calm down now, Ryo-chan.” Yukimura said in a gentle tone, caressing his hair. “You don't have to tell me about it. I'll stay here if you want.”
“Please stay. Don't leave me all alone.” Ryoma mumbled drowsily as he slowly fell asleep; his tears kept on falling on his cheeks.
Sensing that Ryoma has calmed down, Yukimura carried him to his bed and covered him with his blanket, wiping the tears on his eyes. “Sleep now, Ryoma.”
When he was about to sit on Ryoma’s bed, his cell phone rang. “Hello? Oh, it’s you, Mom.”
“Ryoma?” He glanced briefly. “He’s now asleep. Why?” He frowned as his mother told him about Ryoma’s sudden decision to transfer schools.
“I see. I didn’t know that he was applied there.” He sighed. “All right. I’ll tell him tomorrow. Bye.” He placed his phone on the table.
“You must have planned this for some time now, Ryoma. From the looks of it, you were forced to give up on your feelings on someone.” Yukimura whispered, gingerly touching Ryoma’s cheek. “I wonder who has stolen your heart.”
Ryoma sighed sleepily. “Mitsu…” He then turned away from Yukimura’s hand.
“Mitsu?” Suddenly, realization appeared on Yukimura’s face. “Don’t tell me. He’s dating…”
~~*~~
“Seiichi?”
Yukimura was snapped out from his thoughts when he heard Sanada’s voice. “Sorry. Was I asleep?”
Sanada merely shook his head. “No, you weren’t.”
Suddenly their car stopped. “We’re here. Will you wake Echizen-kun, Seiichi?” He then left the car.
Yukimura lightly shook Ryoma, who was still asleep. “Ryoma, we’re here.”
Still tired from his flight, Ryoma reluctantly opened his eyes, yawning. “Sei-chan, where are we?”
“We’re home--Ryoma.” Yukimura smiled gently. “Welcome back.”
Ryoma quickly opened the door and found himself standing in front of a familiar façade. He fell silent before he glanced back at his cousin with a faint glimmer on his eyes. “Finally…I’m back, Sei-chan.”
Few hours later...
After saying his good-byes to his cousin, Ryoma went upstairs to his room. As he closed the door, he drew back the curtains, letting the moonlight enter.
“My room hasn't changed since I left Japan.” He lightly touched his books on the shelves and he then sighed. “Sei-chan hasn't changed either except he's with Sanada-san.”
He sat down on a chair, staring outside the window, tapping his finger on his desk. When he was about to go to his bed, something shiny caught on his eye. He gingerly picked it up.
“My pocket watch--I thought I've lost it.” He held it up. “This is all I have from my mother.” He lightly touched it; his thoughts went back when he first received it.
~~*~~
“Ryoma…”
Ryoma turned around as he saw his mother giving a small gift to him. “Mother, you shouldn’t have.” He accepted it hesitantly. “What is it?” He opened it carefully.
“I found it in an antique shop. I know you have been looking for this. So…” She didn’t continue as she saw Ryoma’s eyes lightened up.
“Mother…” He held up a silver pocket watch with a chain. “I don’t know what to say.”
“Let me see it.” She took the watch from him, opening its cover. “I’m glad that it’s still working. The owner of the shop told me that it took him years to look for its parts and fix it.” She looked appreciatively at it. “By the way, the owner also told me that if you place a picture of the one who has captured your heart in this watch, that person’s heart will be yours forever.”
“Really, Mother--” He snatched back the watch and closed its cover. “You can be such a sentimentalist. After all, it’s just a watch.”
“Heh.” She smiled teasingly at him. “I have a picture of Sakuno-chan here. Maybe when you’re asleep, I’ll place it there.”
He glared at her. “No, thank you. I practically see her everyday in my school. I don’t need another picture of her.” He walked away, totally irritated at her.
She chuckled softly behind his retreating back. “He's such easy to tease but I wasn't kidding about that story.” She sighed. “Maa...I guess I can wait for a few years or so.”
She then went to the kitchen, humming some random song.
~~*~~
“Mother…” He whispered, holding the watch close to his heart. “I can still feel your warmth and love from it, Mother. You must have protected it very well.”
~~*~~
“Echizen-kun, I'm sorry to tell you this but this is what's only left from the explosion.” A police officer gave him the pocket watch, which was a bit tarnished because of the fire.
“My mother-Where is she? She's still alive, isn't she?” Ryoma's voice trembled, clutching the watch tightly. “Isn't she?”
“I'm sorry, Echizen-kun.” The officer gave him a sad look. “Her body is barely recognizable when we found her, holding this watch tightly in her hand as if she was protecting it. She must have treasured it that much.”
Ryoma tried to prevent his tears from falling but it was all futile as they fell from his eyes. “I see. Thank you for telling me, officer.”
“We’ll inform you for any further developments. Good day to you, Echizen-kun, and our condolence for your mother.” The officer left the house silently.
As soon as he closed the door, Ryoma leaned against it, weeping bitterly. He was about to smash the watch against the wall when he accidentally opened the cover and a note fell out. He unfolded the note and read it.
“Ryoma, my son,
When you read this, I’ve already joined your father in heaven. I’m sorry that I left you so early for this world. You must have thought that I have abandoned you, haven’t I?
There’s something I want to tell you about this watch. This is one of the two watches that were made by your great grandfather, one for him and one for his wife. Your grandfather lost the other one while he was traveling from Kyoto to Kanagawa.
The story that I told you wasn’t a lie. You can say that your great grandparents were soul mates but that doesn’t mean your father and I aren’t soul mates, too.
Ryoma, please treasure this watch for me and your father. If ever you found the person you love the most, treasure that person’s heart as I did to your father’s (despite of his perverted nature).
I love you and take care, my son.
The one who loves you always…Mother.”
He smiled faintly despite of his grief, refolding the note. Wiping the tears in his eyes, he glanced at the watch for a while before he held it close to his heart. “I can still feel you, Mother. I will treasure it the way you treasure me.”
Placing the watch in his pocket, he stood up and quietly went upstairs.
~~*~~
“I wonder if the note is still here,” he murmured, opening the cover. The note was still there but he didn’t notice it as he saw the picture inside the watch. “Mitsu…”
He quickly closed the cover as his tears started to well in his eyes.
“I can't believe it.” He fell on his knees, tears slowly flowing from his eyes. “I thought my tears were dried up from crying. Yet after these years, the mere image of you brought back these tears. Why, Mitsu? Why?”
He kept on crying until he fell asleep on the floor, not sensing Yukimura coming in his room and carrying him to his bed.
Tezuka Kunimitsu, the news editor of the Kantou Daily Tribune, was still in his desk, trying to finish editing the article about the recent merger deal between Atobe Corporation and Yamato Holdings, Inc. when his former classmate and the paper's photojournalist, Fuji Syusuke decided to surprise him.
He sat on the desk next to Tezuka’s. “Still editing, Tezuka?”
Tezuka didn't look up to him. “I have to finish this. I have to do an interview tomorrow.”
“Ah, you’re interviewing that young award-winning photographer, Kinomoto Takehito. I didn't expect that Sumire-kaichou knew him. I've heard that he's very elusive and quite an anti-social. I wonder how she did it.” Fuji then noticed a pocket watch on Tezuka's desk. “Nice watch there, Tezuka.”
Tezuka paused for a while, glancing at the watch. “My father...” he faltered. “...gave it to me.”
Fuji sighed. “You still haven't talked to them, have you? Don't you think it's time to let go of the past and forgive them?”
“It was because of them that I lost someone precious to me.” Tezuka took the watch as he opened its cover, looking at the picture inside.
Fuji tried to look at the picture but Tezuka quickly snapped back the cover. “Mou, Tezuka. Can't I even take a peek of your precious sweetheart?”
“Really, Fuji.” Tezuka went back to his work. “You haven't changed since middle school, still poking your nose in someone’s life.”
“Even a small peek, please?”
Tezuka flatly refused. “No.”
“Um, excuse me.” Both of them glanced up as they saw Ryuzaki Sakuno, their editor-in-chief’s secretary and granddaughter. “My grandmother wants to see the both of you at her office.” She bowed slightly at them before she walked away.
“Such a polite girl. Pity though, she has no writing skills like her grandmother,” Fuji commented bluntly.
“Fuji--” Tezuka glared at him.
“I’m just stating the truth, you know.” Fuji stood up from the desk. “I’ll better go ahead. I have something to talk to Sumire-kaichou.” He left Tezuka alone.
“My precious sweetheart, huh...” Tezuka whispered, his eyes lingered on the watch. “How many years have passed since you appeared to my life, Ryoma?”
Putting the watch in his pocket, he then followed Fuji to the editor's office.
~~*~~
Tezuka was passing by the garden when he saw a pocket watch lying on the ground.
“I wonder who owned this,” he murmured, picking it up. “He must be frantic right now.”
He continued walking until he saw a boy kneeling on the grassy ground as if he was looking for something.
“Are you looking for this?” The boy glanced up at him. “I saw this when I was on my way here.” Tezuka held it up.
The boy received it hesitantly. “I-thank you. I don't know what to do if I lose this watch. My mother gave this to me before she died.”
“I understand.” Tezuka then noticed the uniform the boy wore. “You're studying at Rikkaidai?”
The boy nodded. “A distant relative of my mother, who adopted me, lives in the Kanagawa Prefecture so they made me study here.”
“What brings you here then?”
“I merely came here to visit. I've heard that my father used to study here before he left for US.”
The boy smiled faintly at Tezuka. “Sorry. I haven't introduced myself. I'm Echizen Ryoma.” He reached out his hand.
Tezuka accepted his hand, shaking it. “I'm Tezuka Kunimitsu. It's a pleasure meeting you.”
~~*~~
“Tezuka...Tezuka!”
Tezuka was snapped out from his thoughts as he found himself staring at his editor's annoyed eyes. “Sorry. I was...thinking about the interview tomorrow.”
Ryuzaki Sumire, the paper's editor-in-chief, frowned a bit. “I haven't seen you like that since your grandmother's death. I guess this would help.” She threw two envelopes on her table. “These are for you and Fuji.”
Fuji picked up his invitation and opened it. “Oh? This is an invitation for the Annual Valentine Ball at Hotel Roquefort.” He closed it. “I didn't expect the famous Yukimura Seiichi gave us these. He usually invites the cream of the crop here in Japan and other well-known foreign guests.”
“I understand why he invited you and Fuji. But why would he invite me?” Tezuka asked the editor. “He could have invited Kikumaru. He's the entertainment and society editor of this paper.”
“Saa...” She shrugged and then glanced at Fuji. “What do you think, Fuji?”
Fuji mused. “I may have a faint idea why Yukimura invited Tezuka but I don't think Tezuka needs an invitation to attend the ball. After all, he's one of the--”
“Fuji--” Tezuka snapped at him, glaring icily. “In case you have forgotten, I’ve already severed my ties with them.”
“Will you stop it, Fuji?” Ryuzaki sighed wearily. “I have a hard day today and I don’t have time to hear spats between the two.” She glanced at Tezuka. “Tezuka, about the interview, the day has been moved. You will be interviewing him the day after the ball. Do you have something to do on that day?”
Tezuka shook his head. “I have nothing to do on that day. But, I'll inform Oishi about the change of schedule.”
She nodded curtly. “Good. I think that's all for today. Dismiss.” Fuji and Tezuka quietly left her office.
As they entered the news room, Fuji grabbed Tezuka's arm. “I admit that I was out of line there earlier but I still think that you should really talk to your father. I've heard he's having hard time running the business.” But Tezuka remained silent.
Fuji sighed as he released Tezuka's arm. “I'll see you tomorrow then.” He walked away from Tezuka.
Tezuka was quiet on his way to his desk. As he sat on his desk, he idly watched the people walking on the streets from his window. He sighed in frustration as he placed his watch on top of his desk. “I nearly forgot that it's Valentines' Day tomorrow.” He opened its cover, looking at Ryoma's picture inside. “I have given up everything just for you. When will you come back to me, Ryoma?” He then rested his eyes for a while, his thoughts replaying that tragic day.
~~*~~
Tezuka was bored to death as he was forced to listen to the endless chatter of their family friend's daughter while having their tea at an exclusive restaurant. His grandfather has asked him earlier to escort her while they were having their meeting. He reluctantly agreed since he can't disagree to his grandfather.
At first, it went well until he got tired, watching her sighing over a dress or a piece of jewelry. He was rather grateful that his boyfriend doesn't do all of these. Their dates, which were rare actually since Ryoma lives in Kanagawa and he's in Tokyo, were usually over a cup of tea or coffee at their favorite coffee shop.
“Tezuka, are you all right?” He was snapped out of his reverie. “You seemed to be asleep there.”
Tezuka quickly apologized. “I'm sorry, Kuzonoha-san. I was thinking about my schoolwork at home.”
The girl smiled brightly at him. “Okay. As I was saying, my father...” She kept on yakking about her father's latest travels while Tezuka went glass-eyed once more.
Suddenly, he heard someone whispered his name. “Mitsu?”
Tezuka turned around as he saw the stunned Ryoma standing not so far from them. “Ryoma, this is not what you think--”
“I'm sorry. I...” Turning his back on him, Ryoma fled off from the restaurant.
Ignoring the girl at the table, Tezuka followed him, calling his name. “Ryoma! Please let me explain.”
Ryoma didn't look back at him as he kept on walking, not noticing a car driving towards him.
“Ryoma!” Tezuka grabbed his arm instantly, hugging Ryoma closer as the car passed them by.
He slowly released him from his hug. “Thank goodness that I got you in a nick of time. Ryo--” He then saw Ryoma trying to keep his tears from falling. “What's wrong?”
“I'm sorry on what I'm going to tell you, Mitsu but...” Ryoma tried to calm himself down.
Tezuka gazed at him. “Ryoma-what is it?”
“You-your father came to see me yesterday.” Ryoma evaded his gaze.
Tezuka frowned. “But why would he--”
“He-knows about us, Mitsu. He told me to stay away from you so that you will be free to marry Kuzonoha-san.”
“Are you saying that--”
“Yes, Mitsu. I’m going to break up with you.” Ryoma tried to assure him with a smile. “Please don't make this hard for me, Mitsu. I'll remember all those times we spend together--”
Tezuka’s voice wavered a bit. “Why are you doing this?”
“Because I…” Ryoma managed to hold back before he could finish the whole sentence and then he lightly kissed Tezuka's lips. “Goodbye…my love...” He whispered the last two words before he walked away from him.
Still stunned, Tezuka could only watch his beloved slowly disappearing from his line of sight as sakura petals fluttered between them.
He tried to call him back but he couldn't as if he suddenly lost his voice. Minutes later, he finally left, his heart shattered into pieces.
On that day, he cut off his ties to his family that led to his grandfather's death. His father tried to convince him to come back but he never did come back until now.
~~*~~
His cell phone rang, forcing him to pick it up.
“Hello. This is Tezuka.” He frowned a bit. “All right. I'll see you there.” He turned it off.
He looked at his watch. “It's getting late. I'll better be going now.”
Putting the watch again in his pocket, he turned off his computer, putting his files to read on his bag and then, finally leave the place.
On the night of the ball...
Guests were gaily chatting inside when Tezuka, Fuji and Ryuzaki Sumire entered the ballroom.
“This is my first time coming here. I have been attending parties like this but this ball...I don't know but there's something about this ball that makes it different from others,” Fuji commented wistfully.
Ryuzaki nodded in agreement. “I do agree with you, Fuji. Actually, this is only my second time attending this ball.” She glanced at Tezuka. “What do you think, Tezuka--” She trailed off when she saw the frown on her news editor's face. “You look rather tense there, Tezuka. Why don't you go outside for some fresh air?”
Tezuka simply nodded her before he left them. “Did you happen to see his parents, Fuji?” Ryuzaki asked in a whisper.
“I only saw his mother when we came in.” Fuji stared at Tezuka's retreating back. “I guess he hasn't found heart to forgive them.”
While Fuji and Ryuzaki were conversing with the guests at the ballroom, Tezuka was at the balcony, appreciating the view outside.
“Beautiful view, isn't it?” Tezuka turned around as he saw Yukimura standing behind him. “It took my landscaper and my gardeners two months to create this garden. What do you think?”
Tezuka nodded slightly, acknowledging his presence. “It's been a while, Yukimura. I never thought I'll be seeing you again.”
Yukimura smiled. “Neither do I. I've seen your parents and your editor-in-chief earlier inside. Have you met with them?”
Tezuka narrowed his eyes. “Why did you invite me, Yukimura? From the looks of it, I assume you’ve heard about my circumstances.”
“All because of love, isn't it?”
Tezuka raised his brow. “How did you--”
“Your father told me about it.” Yukimura leaned at the railing. “It must have hurt him a lot when you severed your connections with him.” He stared at Tezuka, who was frowning at him.
He smiled amusingly. “Look. He has already regretted what he did to you years ago. I think it's time for you to free yourself to the past and move on. You're still young, Tezuka.”
Yukimura started to walk back inside the ballroom. “I'll see you later inside.” He then saw Tezuka's father. “Ah, Kuniharu-san. I've been talking to your son.” He winked Tezuka. “Your son has something to tell you. Ja ne.” He left the father and son at the balcony.
Awkward silence came between them before Kuniharu broke the silence. “How are you faring?” he asked.
Tezuka replied stiffly, “I'm fine-Father. And you?”
“I've been busy with business but I'm fine. Don't worry.” Kuniharu gazed over the gardens. “Seiichi-kun's gardens are really impressive. You should have seen his gardens at his mansion. Most of them were flown from the countries he visited.”
For a while, they fell silent, quietly appreciating the gardens.
“I was surprised that you came here, Kunimitsu,” Kuniharu remarked blandly. “After all, you’ve decided to denounce your birthright to our faces and leave the house.”
Tezuka frowned at his father. “I-- wasn’t supposed to come here but I was literally dragged here by my fellow journalist.”
“I see.” Kuniharu smiled to himself. Seiichi-kun must have heard about my recent heart attack. I guess I owe this to him.
“Father, how long were you acquainted with Yukimura?”
“Saa...” His father shrugged nonchalantly, leaning against the railing. “His father and I weren’t that close. Seiichi-kun and I only met few years ago at a ball. Oh, yes. He was rather ardent on knowing you at that time.”
“Really?” Tezuka raised a brow. “I--didn't know about that.”
“You must be wondering why I haven't been pressuring you to come home lately,”
“I did wonder once but I haven't thinking about it lately. Besides, I've been busy with my work.”
“I see.” His father looked away from his son. “I know you don't want to hear this again but your mother and I really want you to come back home.” He smiled wistfully. “I easily get exhausted these days. I had a heart attack a week ago--” He saw the surprise in Tezuka's eyes. “--but don't worry about me. You could see that I'm still fine.”
“But, Father--” Tezuka was about to say something but his father cut him off. “I just want you to think things over. We could wait for the next few years or so but don't let us wait for you too long.”
Tezuka nodded a bit. “I will.”
“Well then, shall we go back? The air is getting crisper out here.”
“Aa.” They walked back inside as the bitterness between them slowly melted away like snow. Ryoma was yawning while observing the people below when he was found by his cousin.
“There you are.” Ryoma looked up. “You seemed to be bored, Ryo-chan.”
Ryoma yawned again. “When will you end this travesty of a ball, Sei-chan?”
“Mou, Ryoma.” Yukimura pouted. “I've dedicated this ball just for you. Besides, I'll be having a game tonight.”
Ryoma narrowed his eyes. “A game?”
“Yes, a game. It will be a very interesting game.” Yukimura grabbed his hand, dragging him along. “Come on.”
“Oi...Sei-chan! Let go of me.” Ryoma tried to keep up with his cousin. “I don't want join any game of yours.”
“Really, Ryoma.” They stopped in the middle of the main staircase. “Don't be such a killjoy.”
“I'm not being a killjoy here, Seiichi.” Ryoma retorted back. “I'm not interested in joining any of your weird games.”
Yukimura smiled enigmatically. “Don't worry. You will enjoy this game.”
Ignoring Ryoma's icy glare at him, he looked away from him, facing the people at the ballroom. “Good evening, everyone. I hope you're enjoying the ball.”
Murmurs and whispers of agreements echoed inside the room. “I'm glad all of you did. So then, shall we start our annual matchmaking game? As usual, every single person in this room will gather in front of me. Don't try to lie or deceive us for we've already done background check to each of you and--.” Yukimura suddenly grabbed Ryoma's jacket before he could walk away. “Don't think you're exempted in joining this, Ryoma.”
Ryoma folded in his arms at his chest, muttering irritably. “That's it. I'm going to book a ticket for Paris tomorrow morning.”
“Please don't that. Besides...” Yukimura leaned to Ryoma's ear. “You still have that interview for the Kantou Daily Tribune.”
“What?!” Ryoma was outraged. “Why you--”
“Yukimura-sama...” They were interrupted by a man in a black suit. “We're done checking all of them.”
“Good.” The man left quickly. “Well then...” He faced to the group. “Sorry to keep waiting, everyone. Were each of you given a blindfold?”
Some of them responded. “Good. Then you must cover your eyes with it. You will be assisted by these men here. After doing that, someone will guide you to your assigned room and there, you will find your date for tonight.”
Murmurs and whispers echoed the room again. “I don't know if some of you will be together after this but I do wish all of you happiness...” Yukimura glanced at Ryoma. “Especially to you, Ryo-chan. I really want to see you happy after all that pain you've suffered.”
Giving in to his cousin's request, Ryoma sighed reluctantly. “Alright, I'll do this but only this one, okay?”
Yukimura gave him a faint smile before he nodded briefly at his men to start the game and then, helped his cousin tied his blindfold. Tezuka, totally blindfolded, was guided by one of Yukimura's men to his assigned room.
“You're lucky, seishounen. You'll be staying at the penthouse. Yukimura-sama must have favored you that much.”
He didn't reply as he let the man continue. “He rarely let someone use the penthouse except for him, Sanada-kun and his cousin.”
“Cousin?” Tezuka was quite surprised of this information. “I didn't know that he has a cousin.”
The man chuckled softly. “Of course, you wouldn't know. Yukimura-sama is very overprotective to his cousin. He rarely gives out information about him or lets anyone see him.” He paused for a while. “By the way, have you heard of Kinomoto Takehito, that famous photographer?”
Tezuka nodded. “That's his cousin but his real name is--”
“I'll take him from here, Nakahara-san.” Yukimura interrupted the two of them as the man bowed and left quietly. Then, he guided Tezuka inside the penthouse and untied the blindfold.
Tezuka stared directly at him. “Yukimura, were you the one who introduced to our editor the idea of interviewing your cousin?”
Yukimura merely smiled. “Indeed, I was. After all, he was one of the well-sought photographers today and I thought now is the right time for him to be interviewed.”
“But why me? You could have let our entertainment editor interview him.”
“Kikumaru-kun? I’ve read his interviews but I’ve also read yours. You tend to draw out the softer side of the person you interviewed; you’re not biased and fair with your articles.”
“Kikumaru isn’t--” Tezuka was about to defend his co-editor when Yukimura cut him off.
“I didn’t mean to imply that he’s a biased writer. It’s just that I’m more impressed with your interviews than his despite the fact that the people that you interview are mostly politicians, businessmen and world leaders.” Yukimura glanced at his watch. “I think it's time to leave you, Tezuka. My cousin will be here shortly. Have a pleasant time.” He closed the door behind him.
Tezuka went over the balcony, leaning at the railing as he waited for Yukimura's cousin to come in.
He pulled the watch out of his pocket and opened its cover. “I guess it's time for me to say good-bye to you, my--” He then heard the door open.
“Are you the one whom my cousin set up?”
Tezuka furrowed his brows slightly. His voice...Where did I hear it? “Yes, I am.”
He heard a sigh inside. “Sei-chan never fails to amuse me. He told me that you will be interviewing me. From what paper are you?”
“I'm from Kantou Daily Tribune.”
“I see. May I have your name then?”
“I thought Yukimura told you my name,” he replied in a rather surprised tone.
“You see. When I asked my cousin about your name, he suddenly smiled mysteriously at me and told me that I already know you.”
Tezuka sighed. “I understand. My name is Tezuka Kunimitsu.”
Suddenly, he heard a crash inside. “Are you all right there?” He quickly asked.
“I-I'm fine. My glass slipped. That's all.”
“Your hand must have cut from the glass. Let me look--” Tezuka started to walk inside.
“Stop right there!” He stopped just in front of the room. “I told you. I'm fine. You don't have to come inside...”
Tezuka ignored his request as he went in. “Why are you so stub...” He trailed off when he finally met Yukimura's cousin.
Ryoma, who was about to pick up the glass shards, quickly turned away from him. “I told you not to come here, didn't I?” His voice started to waver. “Damn! I--I'm not ready to face you after those years. I've made you suffer--”
He didn't manage to finish as Tezuka embraced him from behind, eliciting a startle from Ryoma. “I should have done this in the first place,” he whispered.
Ryoma's eyes were slowly brimming with tears as he hid his face against his chest. “You've become a fool, Mitsu. How come you didn't give up on me?”
Tezuka embraced him tightly. “Because I can't, Ryoma...You already have my heart. As long as you have it, I'll never let you go,” he replied in a whisper.
Suddenly, he felt Ryoma's body trembling. “Ryoma, are you all right? Ryo--” He then heard Ryoma's muffled laughter. “Oh, you were laughing.”
Ryoma glanced up to him; his eyes, which were filled with tears earlier, are now shining in amusement. “You should listen to yourself. I only left you for a few years and you started to sprout some flowery words.” He raised a brow. “Rather out of your character, don't you think?” Tezuka frowned at him.
“But--” He smiled faintly at Tezuka. “I'm glad that I finally see you again, Mitsu.” He leaned to him closer.
Tezuka sighed in relief. “Aa.”
They remained in each other's arms, afraid to let each other go again.
Minutes later...
They were sitting on a wicker love seat at the balcony, still in each other's arms as they enjoyed watching the full moon.
“I guess I should be grateful to Sei-chan for this.” Ryoma laid his head on the brunet's right shoulder. “I'm not surprised that he knew about you.”
“Aa.” Tezuka gingerly touched the younger man's dark-green hair. “However, I'm surprised that you and Yukimura are cousins. Why didn't you tell me about it?”
Ryoma sighed. “You know how overprotective Sei-chan is, Mitsu. He wouldn't hesitate to hurt anyone those who tried to lay a finger on me.” He looked up to Tezuka. “Even to you.”
Knowing Yukimura's personality that well, the brunet furrowed his brows. “I know.”
They fell into an amicable silence.
“You know,” Ryoma said in a wistful tone. “I still have your picture in my watch. I didn't know why I still keep it but--” He smiled ruefully at Tezuka. “Perhaps my mother was right about that story about the watch.”
“Story?”
“Didn't I tell you about it?” The brunet shook his head. “My mother told me that my watch is one of the two watches that my great-grandfather made for my great-grandmother.”
Ryoma took out his watch, opening its cover, showing Tezuka his picture. “She also told me that if I put the picture of the one who captured my heart in this watch, that person's heart will be mine forever.” He gazed at it.
Tezuka stared at the watch for a while. His watch-It seems to be familiar... He suddenly took out his watch, looking closer to it. I knew it.
“Heh. I didn't know that you have a watch.” He glanced at Ryoma, who was looking curiously at his watch.
“It's my father's gift to me before I left them.”
“Have you--” Ryoma peered hesitantly.
“Father and I have settled our differences, yes,” Tezuka noticed the change in Ryoma's expression. “He told me that I should think things over before coming back to them but I think it's time for me to take over my family business.” He gave him a faint smile. “Thus, my interview with you will be my last article in the paper.”
Ryoma couldn't help but feel happy for his lover. “I'm glad that you and your father have forgiven each other.” He looked at Tezuka's watch. “Did you--”
“Yes.” Tezuka opened the cover. “It has your picture on it--” He felt the sudden stiffening of Ryoma's body. “Ryoma?”
“Where did your father get this watch?” Ryoma asked in a whisper.
“He found it in an antique shop in Kanagawa while he was meeting with his associates. Why?”
“May I take a look on it?”
“Of course.” Tezuka gave it to Ryoma, who quickly accepted it and looked closer on it. He must have noticed the similarities of our watches.
“Mitsu...” Ryoma stared at him. “This watch-this was the one that my great-grandfather made. Look at the engraving at the back.” He gave back to Tezuka his watch.
Tezuka read the small engraving. “For Ayana, my one and only true love...” He looked at Ryoma. “Ayame is your great-grandmother?”
“Yes.” Ryoma showed the engraving on his watch. “He engraved that one while she engraved it this one.” He read it. “For Haruka, the one who has my heart...”
He sighed in exasperation. “Geez. I started to sound like some romantic fool.”
Tezuka, amused by his lover's exasperation, chuckled.
“I hear that.” Ryoma glowered irritable at him. “This is all your fault, you know.”
“Of course.” Tezuka ruffled his hair. “But this is also your fault, Ryoma.”
“Huh?” Ryoma looked quizzically. “What do you mean by that?”
“You still owe me a kiss from the last time.”
“A kiss? What kiss...” Ryoma trailed off, flustered a bit as he finally remembered the last thing he did to Tezuka before leaving Japan.
“You don't have to bring that up--”
Tezuka kissed him, silencing him for a while.
Ryoma was a bit startled at first; as it progressed, he eventually gave in to the joy and happiness that he felt in his heart, knowing that their love was, as they say, timeless.
Next day...
Tezuka entered the editor-in-chief's office, carrying his resignation letter and his finished interview and placing them on her table.
Seeing the letter in front of her, Ryuuzaki sighed. “I should have known that this was coming. I guess you've decided to take over your father's company. Did you tell Oishi-kun about this?”
“Yes,” Tezuka replied in a grave tone.
She picked up his written interview, reading it for a while. “You really gave your all with this interview, didn't you?” She placed it back. “I think this is your best article that you've written for this paper.” She smiled gratefully. “Thank you.”
Tezuka bowed politely to her. “Thank you for letting me experience working here, Ryuuzaki-san.”
“You're welcome. I'll inform everyone about your resignation later in the meeting. You may take your leave.”
Bowing to her for the last time, he left her office silently.
She sighed again. “I guess Yukimura was right all along,” she murmured as her thoughts went back to her telephone conversation with the hotelier.
~~*~~
Ryuuzaki was writing her editorial for tomorrow's paper when the famed hotelier gave her a call.
“Yukimura-kun, I was about to call you there. By the way, thank you for the invitations,” she replied, her fingers touching the envelopes.
“Oh, you have them?” Yukimura sighed in relief. “Thank goodness. Did my secretary give you three?”
“Yes. Let's see.” She read the names on the invitations. “For me...Fuji and...Tezuka?” She eyed the last envelope closer. “Tezuka? Are, did Tsubahime-san make a mistake?”
He chuckled. “No, she didn't. I intentionally invited your news editor at the ball.”
“Really?” That perked the editor-in-chief's interest up.This is interesting.
“Why a sudden interest on him? You, of all people, should know that he's the son of the chairman of Tezuka International.” She smiled knowingly. “There has to be a reason why you send him an invitation.”
“All right.” He sighed. “So you got me. My cousin will be returning home from France tomorrow.”
“Then?”
“You see, he has this altercation with Tezuka years ago and I think now is the time for them to resolve.”
“I see.” She leaned back on her chair. “So what are you planning to do? What do you want me to do?”
“An interview.” She quirked a brow. “All I ask from you is to let Tezuka interview my cousin.”
“I presume that your cousin is very famous in some field that you want Tezuka to interview. So who is he?”
“You might have heard of him.” She could hear the joy in the hotelier's voice. “He's Kinomoto Takehito.”
“EH?!” She was totally taken aback with his revelation. “Your cousin is that famous photographer?”
“So what do you think, Ryuuzaki-san? This is an offer too good to resist, don't you think?”
What a cunning guy. I can see the reason why some businessmen feared him. She sighed in resignation. I'm sorry, Tezuka. “All right. I'll accept your offer. I'll try to convince him to do the interview.”
“Good. I'll see you at the ball then.” He ended their conversation.
She placed down the phone. I wonder what's their altercation about. I think this is worth finding out.
She picked up the intercom as she called Tezuka to come to her office.
~~*~~
“Obaachan?”
She snapped out of her thoughts when she saw her granddaughter standing in front of her. “Takashima-san has arrived.”
“I see. Let him in, Sakuno.” She quickly arranged her papers and pens on her table.
Sakuno bowed politely. “Yes.” She opened the door, letting in the visitor. “Takashima-san, you may enter.”
“Ah, Ryuuzaki-san. Good morning! About that interview...”
“Oh, yes.” Ryuuzaki quickly gave him a smile as if nothing happened.
A week later...
On the special issue of Kantou Daily Tribune was a headline report about Tezuka Kuniharu's relinquishment of his position, being the chairman of Tezuka International in favor of his only son, Kunimitsu, who suddenly reappeared in the society.
Also in the issue was Tezuka's last interview with the famous photographer Kinomoto Takehito (a.k.a. Echizen Ryoma) where an interesting picture was placed there.
It was taken by Yukimura himself during the morning after the Valentine ball where Tezuka and Ryoma were strolling along the hidden garden path of the hotel. Ryoma was talking animatedly to the brunet, his eyes shimmered in happiness; while Tezuka, though his face was impassive as usual, had a faint amused smile on his face.
Quite picture perfect, don't you think?
There you have it. Finally I've finished writing it. *throws the confetti to herself*
So what do you think? Feel free to comment and suggest for a better title for this story.
This is still unbeta'ed and---I might put this in Ff.net.
This is Gen, signing out. *winks*
I was supposed to place this in Ff.net but my procrastination habit struck back so I placed the FujiRyo oneshot there instead.
I got inspired to write this when I watched Sakura Wars or Sakura Taisen, which is an anime. [To those who are not familiar with it, the story took place in Tokyo during the fictional Taisho period. It's kind of like Gintama (which is set during the Edo period) but this is a bit serious than Gintama.] Weird source of inspiration, huh?
Oh well, I also admit I was inspired to write this from Viewfinder or Finder Series, a Yamane Ayano manga. [ I've also heard the drama CDs and to my amazement, Asami's voice is Koyasu Takehito. OMG! Love it... *drools* But still, I love Morikawa's voice. But please don't remind me of Gin no Requiem. (I cried buckets when I heard the drama CDs. Sheesh! I really hated Morikawa's role (Lucien) here but at least, he deserves it after all he did to poor Kira. He deserves to be insane forever. Mwahahahahaha!)]
Back to the oneshot, this is an alternate universe story where Ryoma is a famous photographer while Tezuka is the news editor of Kantou Daily Tribune (I made up the name; but if there's really Kantou Daily Tribune, I change it immediately.).
There will be a lot of flashbacks to explain a few things. But still just ask me if you're confused or something.
So I present you my TezRyo oneshot entitled...An Unexpected Reunion.
Disclaimer: I don't own the Prince of Tennis series. I'm not that rich.
Warning: This is a very long oneshot so take care of your eyes. Also, the characters here might not be in their usual character.
This means flashbacks.
This means thoughts.
"This" means airport announcement.
AN UNEXPECTED REUNION
“I have made it an observation since our absence, that we are much fonder of the pictures of those we love when they are at a great distance than when they are near us. It seems to me as if the farther they are removed their pictures grow the more finished, and acquire a greater resemblance; or at least our imagination, which perpetually figures them to us by the desire we have of seeing them again, makes us think so. By a peculiar power love can make that seem life itself which, as soon as the loved object returns, is nothing but a little canvas and flat color.”
-Excerpts from Héloise's 2nd letter to Peter Abelard
“Flight 767 for Paris, France is already boarding. To all passengers...”
Yukimura Seiichi and his long-time partner, Sanada Genichirou were standing quietly at the waiting lobby amidst of the noise from the people around them.
“Are you sure that he is in this flight?” Sanada glanced enquiringly at Yukimura, who was looking for someone among the passengers.
“Of course. After all, I was the one who booked this flight,” Yukimura replied, starting to get worried. “Ah, there he is!” He waved at a tall bespectacled young man who just came out of the boarding door. “Ryoma! We are here.”
Ryoma seemed to notice them as he waved at them and walked towards them. “Sei-chan! Sanada-san! I didn't expect the two of you will come here.” He smiled faintly at them.
Yukimura embraced him tightly. “Mou, Ryoma. Just because you won some awards on that atrocious hobby of yours, that doesn't mean I won't come here to greet you.”
“Hai, hai.” Ryoma slowly removed himself from his cousin's embrace. “So how's the business?”
“Still doing well.” The three of them came out of the building.
“You two better stay here. I'm going to get our car.” Sanada left Ryoma and Yukimura outside.
While waiting for their car to arrive, Ryoma shivered a bit as he felt the crisp cold air from winter. “How many years has passed since I left Japan, Sei-chan?” He glanced at Yukimura with sadness in his eyes.
Yukimura frowned. “Ryo-chan, I--” They were distracted by their car's horn.
He glanced at his cousin. “Shall we get in then?”
Ryoma sighed as he and Yukimura went inside the car. Minutes later, they drove off. While on their way home, Yukimura smiled as he saw Ryoma sleeping serenely at the back seat.
“I'm glad that he's still capable of sleeping like that.” He leaned snugly at his seat. “Ne, Genichirou. Do you know the reason why Ryoma left Japan?” Sanada shook his head.
“Someone broke his heart. He never told me who did it but when he left here for abroad, he became more aloof and apathetic than before,” Yukimura said in a wistful tone.
Sanada muttered. “I thought he’s always that apathetic when I first met him.”
Yukimura chuckled softly. “No. Ryoma has his soft side but he rarely shows it to others.” He smiled wistfully. “It must have hurt him a lot when he has to let go of his feelings for him.”
“Him? Echizen fell in love with a guy?” Sanada raised a surprised brow at him..
“Yes. Even I was surprised when I know about that and the person whom he fell in love with.” Yukimura gazed back at the sleeping Ryoma. “I do have doubts on their relationship at first; but every time I saw Ryoma coming in the house with a sparkle in his eyes or a faint smile on his face, I kept on telling myself that I won’t interfere. Yet on that day…” His thoughts went back on that day.
~~*~~
Yukimura was coming downstairs when he saw Ryoma closing the door.
“Ryo-chan! How is your…” He trailed off when he saw Ryoma’s tear-glistened eyes. “Were you crying?”
Ryoma quickly wiped away his tears with his arm. “N-no. This is nothing. Something got into my eyes. That's all.” He averted from Yukimura's stern gaze. “I have to change, Sei-chan. Tell Martha-san that I won't be coming down for dinner.” He climbed upstairs without looking back at his cousin.
Yukimura reluctantly left him alone and went to the dining room.
~~*~~
After dinner, he quickly went to Ryoma's room. He was about to knock the door when he heard soft sobs inside. He opened the door and saw his cousin, trembling at the corner of his room.
“Ryoma!!” Yukimura knelt beside him, trying to comfort him. “What are you trying to do to yourself?”
Ryoma glanced up hesitantly. “Sei-chan?”
Yukimura shook him hard. “Ryoma, you have to pull yourself together. Tell me who did this to you.”
Ryoma broke into tears again. “I have to do that to him, Sei-chan. I have no choice. I have to--” He buried his face at Yukimura's lap, trying to stop his tears.
“Calm down now, Ryo-chan.” Yukimura said in a gentle tone, caressing his hair. “You don't have to tell me about it. I'll stay here if you want.”
“Please stay. Don't leave me all alone.” Ryoma mumbled drowsily as he slowly fell asleep; his tears kept on falling on his cheeks.
Sensing that Ryoma has calmed down, Yukimura carried him to his bed and covered him with his blanket, wiping the tears on his eyes. “Sleep now, Ryoma.”
When he was about to sit on Ryoma’s bed, his cell phone rang. “Hello? Oh, it’s you, Mom.”
“Ryoma?” He glanced briefly. “He’s now asleep. Why?” He frowned as his mother told him about Ryoma’s sudden decision to transfer schools.
“I see. I didn’t know that he was applied there.” He sighed. “All right. I’ll tell him tomorrow. Bye.” He placed his phone on the table.
“You must have planned this for some time now, Ryoma. From the looks of it, you were forced to give up on your feelings on someone.” Yukimura whispered, gingerly touching Ryoma’s cheek. “I wonder who has stolen your heart.”
Ryoma sighed sleepily. “Mitsu…” He then turned away from Yukimura’s hand.
“Mitsu?” Suddenly, realization appeared on Yukimura’s face. “Don’t tell me. He’s dating…”
~~*~~
“Seiichi?”
Yukimura was snapped out from his thoughts when he heard Sanada’s voice. “Sorry. Was I asleep?”
Sanada merely shook his head. “No, you weren’t.”
Suddenly their car stopped. “We’re here. Will you wake Echizen-kun, Seiichi?” He then left the car.
Yukimura lightly shook Ryoma, who was still asleep. “Ryoma, we’re here.”
Still tired from his flight, Ryoma reluctantly opened his eyes, yawning. “Sei-chan, where are we?”
“We’re home--Ryoma.” Yukimura smiled gently. “Welcome back.”
Ryoma quickly opened the door and found himself standing in front of a familiar façade. He fell silent before he glanced back at his cousin with a faint glimmer on his eyes. “Finally…I’m back, Sei-chan.”
Few hours later...
After saying his good-byes to his cousin, Ryoma went upstairs to his room. As he closed the door, he drew back the curtains, letting the moonlight enter.
“My room hasn't changed since I left Japan.” He lightly touched his books on the shelves and he then sighed. “Sei-chan hasn't changed either except he's with Sanada-san.”
He sat down on a chair, staring outside the window, tapping his finger on his desk. When he was about to go to his bed, something shiny caught on his eye. He gingerly picked it up.
“My pocket watch--I thought I've lost it.” He held it up. “This is all I have from my mother.” He lightly touched it; his thoughts went back when he first received it.
~~*~~
“Ryoma…”
Ryoma turned around as he saw his mother giving a small gift to him. “Mother, you shouldn’t have.” He accepted it hesitantly. “What is it?” He opened it carefully.
“I found it in an antique shop. I know you have been looking for this. So…” She didn’t continue as she saw Ryoma’s eyes lightened up.
“Mother…” He held up a silver pocket watch with a chain. “I don’t know what to say.”
“Let me see it.” She took the watch from him, opening its cover. “I’m glad that it’s still working. The owner of the shop told me that it took him years to look for its parts and fix it.” She looked appreciatively at it. “By the way, the owner also told me that if you place a picture of the one who has captured your heart in this watch, that person’s heart will be yours forever.”
“Really, Mother--” He snatched back the watch and closed its cover. “You can be such a sentimentalist. After all, it’s just a watch.”
“Heh.” She smiled teasingly at him. “I have a picture of Sakuno-chan here. Maybe when you’re asleep, I’ll place it there.”
He glared at her. “No, thank you. I practically see her everyday in my school. I don’t need another picture of her.” He walked away, totally irritated at her.
She chuckled softly behind his retreating back. “He's such easy to tease but I wasn't kidding about that story.” She sighed. “Maa...I guess I can wait for a few years or so.”
She then went to the kitchen, humming some random song.
~~*~~
“Mother…” He whispered, holding the watch close to his heart. “I can still feel your warmth and love from it, Mother. You must have protected it very well.”
~~*~~
“Echizen-kun, I'm sorry to tell you this but this is what's only left from the explosion.” A police officer gave him the pocket watch, which was a bit tarnished because of the fire.
“My mother-Where is she? She's still alive, isn't she?” Ryoma's voice trembled, clutching the watch tightly. “Isn't she?”
“I'm sorry, Echizen-kun.” The officer gave him a sad look. “Her body is barely recognizable when we found her, holding this watch tightly in her hand as if she was protecting it. She must have treasured it that much.”
Ryoma tried to prevent his tears from falling but it was all futile as they fell from his eyes. “I see. Thank you for telling me, officer.”
“We’ll inform you for any further developments. Good day to you, Echizen-kun, and our condolence for your mother.” The officer left the house silently.
As soon as he closed the door, Ryoma leaned against it, weeping bitterly. He was about to smash the watch against the wall when he accidentally opened the cover and a note fell out. He unfolded the note and read it.
“Ryoma, my son,
When you read this, I’ve already joined your father in heaven. I’m sorry that I left you so early for this world. You must have thought that I have abandoned you, haven’t I?
There’s something I want to tell you about this watch. This is one of the two watches that were made by your great grandfather, one for him and one for his wife. Your grandfather lost the other one while he was traveling from Kyoto to Kanagawa.
The story that I told you wasn’t a lie. You can say that your great grandparents were soul mates but that doesn’t mean your father and I aren’t soul mates, too.
Ryoma, please treasure this watch for me and your father. If ever you found the person you love the most, treasure that person’s heart as I did to your father’s (despite of his perverted nature).
I love you and take care, my son.
The one who loves you always…Mother.”
He smiled faintly despite of his grief, refolding the note. Wiping the tears in his eyes, he glanced at the watch for a while before he held it close to his heart. “I can still feel you, Mother. I will treasure it the way you treasure me.”
Placing the watch in his pocket, he stood up and quietly went upstairs.
~~*~~
“I wonder if the note is still here,” he murmured, opening the cover. The note was still there but he didn’t notice it as he saw the picture inside the watch. “Mitsu…”
He quickly closed the cover as his tears started to well in his eyes.
“I can't believe it.” He fell on his knees, tears slowly flowing from his eyes. “I thought my tears were dried up from crying. Yet after these years, the mere image of you brought back these tears. Why, Mitsu? Why?”
He kept on crying until he fell asleep on the floor, not sensing Yukimura coming in his room and carrying him to his bed.
Tezuka Kunimitsu, the news editor of the Kantou Daily Tribune, was still in his desk, trying to finish editing the article about the recent merger deal between Atobe Corporation and Yamato Holdings, Inc. when his former classmate and the paper's photojournalist, Fuji Syusuke decided to surprise him.
He sat on the desk next to Tezuka’s. “Still editing, Tezuka?”
Tezuka didn't look up to him. “I have to finish this. I have to do an interview tomorrow.”
“Ah, you’re interviewing that young award-winning photographer, Kinomoto Takehito. I didn't expect that Sumire-kaichou knew him. I've heard that he's very elusive and quite an anti-social. I wonder how she did it.” Fuji then noticed a pocket watch on Tezuka's desk. “Nice watch there, Tezuka.”
Tezuka paused for a while, glancing at the watch. “My father...” he faltered. “...gave it to me.”
Fuji sighed. “You still haven't talked to them, have you? Don't you think it's time to let go of the past and forgive them?”
“It was because of them that I lost someone precious to me.” Tezuka took the watch as he opened its cover, looking at the picture inside.
Fuji tried to look at the picture but Tezuka quickly snapped back the cover. “Mou, Tezuka. Can't I even take a peek of your precious sweetheart?”
“Really, Fuji.” Tezuka went back to his work. “You haven't changed since middle school, still poking your nose in someone’s life.”
“Even a small peek, please?”
Tezuka flatly refused. “No.”
“Um, excuse me.” Both of them glanced up as they saw Ryuzaki Sakuno, their editor-in-chief’s secretary and granddaughter. “My grandmother wants to see the both of you at her office.” She bowed slightly at them before she walked away.
“Such a polite girl. Pity though, she has no writing skills like her grandmother,” Fuji commented bluntly.
“Fuji--” Tezuka glared at him.
“I’m just stating the truth, you know.” Fuji stood up from the desk. “I’ll better go ahead. I have something to talk to Sumire-kaichou.” He left Tezuka alone.
“My precious sweetheart, huh...” Tezuka whispered, his eyes lingered on the watch. “How many years have passed since you appeared to my life, Ryoma?”
Putting the watch in his pocket, he then followed Fuji to the editor's office.
~~*~~
Tezuka was passing by the garden when he saw a pocket watch lying on the ground.
“I wonder who owned this,” he murmured, picking it up. “He must be frantic right now.”
He continued walking until he saw a boy kneeling on the grassy ground as if he was looking for something.
“Are you looking for this?” The boy glanced up at him. “I saw this when I was on my way here.” Tezuka held it up.
The boy received it hesitantly. “I-thank you. I don't know what to do if I lose this watch. My mother gave this to me before she died.”
“I understand.” Tezuka then noticed the uniform the boy wore. “You're studying at Rikkaidai?”
The boy nodded. “A distant relative of my mother, who adopted me, lives in the Kanagawa Prefecture so they made me study here.”
“What brings you here then?”
“I merely came here to visit. I've heard that my father used to study here before he left for US.”
The boy smiled faintly at Tezuka. “Sorry. I haven't introduced myself. I'm Echizen Ryoma.” He reached out his hand.
Tezuka accepted his hand, shaking it. “I'm Tezuka Kunimitsu. It's a pleasure meeting you.”
~~*~~
“Tezuka...Tezuka!”
Tezuka was snapped out from his thoughts as he found himself staring at his editor's annoyed eyes. “Sorry. I was...thinking about the interview tomorrow.”
Ryuzaki Sumire, the paper's editor-in-chief, frowned a bit. “I haven't seen you like that since your grandmother's death. I guess this would help.” She threw two envelopes on her table. “These are for you and Fuji.”
Fuji picked up his invitation and opened it. “Oh? This is an invitation for the Annual Valentine Ball at Hotel Roquefort.” He closed it. “I didn't expect the famous Yukimura Seiichi gave us these. He usually invites the cream of the crop here in Japan and other well-known foreign guests.”
“I understand why he invited you and Fuji. But why would he invite me?” Tezuka asked the editor. “He could have invited Kikumaru. He's the entertainment and society editor of this paper.”
“Saa...” She shrugged and then glanced at Fuji. “What do you think, Fuji?”
Fuji mused. “I may have a faint idea why Yukimura invited Tezuka but I don't think Tezuka needs an invitation to attend the ball. After all, he's one of the--”
“Fuji--” Tezuka snapped at him, glaring icily. “In case you have forgotten, I’ve already severed my ties with them.”
“Will you stop it, Fuji?” Ryuzaki sighed wearily. “I have a hard day today and I don’t have time to hear spats between the two.” She glanced at Tezuka. “Tezuka, about the interview, the day has been moved. You will be interviewing him the day after the ball. Do you have something to do on that day?”
Tezuka shook his head. “I have nothing to do on that day. But, I'll inform Oishi about the change of schedule.”
She nodded curtly. “Good. I think that's all for today. Dismiss.” Fuji and Tezuka quietly left her office.
As they entered the news room, Fuji grabbed Tezuka's arm. “I admit that I was out of line there earlier but I still think that you should really talk to your father. I've heard he's having hard time running the business.” But Tezuka remained silent.
Fuji sighed as he released Tezuka's arm. “I'll see you tomorrow then.” He walked away from Tezuka.
Tezuka was quiet on his way to his desk. As he sat on his desk, he idly watched the people walking on the streets from his window. He sighed in frustration as he placed his watch on top of his desk. “I nearly forgot that it's Valentines' Day tomorrow.” He opened its cover, looking at Ryoma's picture inside. “I have given up everything just for you. When will you come back to me, Ryoma?” He then rested his eyes for a while, his thoughts replaying that tragic day.
~~*~~
Tezuka was bored to death as he was forced to listen to the endless chatter of their family friend's daughter while having their tea at an exclusive restaurant. His grandfather has asked him earlier to escort her while they were having their meeting. He reluctantly agreed since he can't disagree to his grandfather.
At first, it went well until he got tired, watching her sighing over a dress or a piece of jewelry. He was rather grateful that his boyfriend doesn't do all of these. Their dates, which were rare actually since Ryoma lives in Kanagawa and he's in Tokyo, were usually over a cup of tea or coffee at their favorite coffee shop.
“Tezuka, are you all right?” He was snapped out of his reverie. “You seemed to be asleep there.”
Tezuka quickly apologized. “I'm sorry, Kuzonoha-san. I was thinking about my schoolwork at home.”
The girl smiled brightly at him. “Okay. As I was saying, my father...” She kept on yakking about her father's latest travels while Tezuka went glass-eyed once more.
Suddenly, he heard someone whispered his name. “Mitsu?”
Tezuka turned around as he saw the stunned Ryoma standing not so far from them. “Ryoma, this is not what you think--”
“I'm sorry. I...” Turning his back on him, Ryoma fled off from the restaurant.
Ignoring the girl at the table, Tezuka followed him, calling his name. “Ryoma! Please let me explain.”
Ryoma didn't look back at him as he kept on walking, not noticing a car driving towards him.
“Ryoma!” Tezuka grabbed his arm instantly, hugging Ryoma closer as the car passed them by.
He slowly released him from his hug. “Thank goodness that I got you in a nick of time. Ryo--” He then saw Ryoma trying to keep his tears from falling. “What's wrong?”
“I'm sorry on what I'm going to tell you, Mitsu but...” Ryoma tried to calm himself down.
Tezuka gazed at him. “Ryoma-what is it?”
“You-your father came to see me yesterday.” Ryoma evaded his gaze.
Tezuka frowned. “But why would he--”
“He-knows about us, Mitsu. He told me to stay away from you so that you will be free to marry Kuzonoha-san.”
“Are you saying that--”
“Yes, Mitsu. I’m going to break up with you.” Ryoma tried to assure him with a smile. “Please don't make this hard for me, Mitsu. I'll remember all those times we spend together--”
Tezuka’s voice wavered a bit. “Why are you doing this?”
“Because I…” Ryoma managed to hold back before he could finish the whole sentence and then he lightly kissed Tezuka's lips. “Goodbye…my love...” He whispered the last two words before he walked away from him.
Still stunned, Tezuka could only watch his beloved slowly disappearing from his line of sight as sakura petals fluttered between them.
He tried to call him back but he couldn't as if he suddenly lost his voice. Minutes later, he finally left, his heart shattered into pieces.
On that day, he cut off his ties to his family that led to his grandfather's death. His father tried to convince him to come back but he never did come back until now.
~~*~~
His cell phone rang, forcing him to pick it up.
“Hello. This is Tezuka.” He frowned a bit. “All right. I'll see you there.” He turned it off.
He looked at his watch. “It's getting late. I'll better be going now.”
Putting the watch again in his pocket, he turned off his computer, putting his files to read on his bag and then, finally leave the place.
On the night of the ball...
Guests were gaily chatting inside when Tezuka, Fuji and Ryuzaki Sumire entered the ballroom.
“This is my first time coming here. I have been attending parties like this but this ball...I don't know but there's something about this ball that makes it different from others,” Fuji commented wistfully.
Ryuzaki nodded in agreement. “I do agree with you, Fuji. Actually, this is only my second time attending this ball.” She glanced at Tezuka. “What do you think, Tezuka--” She trailed off when she saw the frown on her news editor's face. “You look rather tense there, Tezuka. Why don't you go outside for some fresh air?”
Tezuka simply nodded her before he left them. “Did you happen to see his parents, Fuji?” Ryuzaki asked in a whisper.
“I only saw his mother when we came in.” Fuji stared at Tezuka's retreating back. “I guess he hasn't found heart to forgive them.”
While Fuji and Ryuzaki were conversing with the guests at the ballroom, Tezuka was at the balcony, appreciating the view outside.
“Beautiful view, isn't it?” Tezuka turned around as he saw Yukimura standing behind him. “It took my landscaper and my gardeners two months to create this garden. What do you think?”
Tezuka nodded slightly, acknowledging his presence. “It's been a while, Yukimura. I never thought I'll be seeing you again.”
Yukimura smiled. “Neither do I. I've seen your parents and your editor-in-chief earlier inside. Have you met with them?”
Tezuka narrowed his eyes. “Why did you invite me, Yukimura? From the looks of it, I assume you’ve heard about my circumstances.”
“All because of love, isn't it?”
Tezuka raised his brow. “How did you--”
“Your father told me about it.” Yukimura leaned at the railing. “It must have hurt him a lot when you severed your connections with him.” He stared at Tezuka, who was frowning at him.
He smiled amusingly. “Look. He has already regretted what he did to you years ago. I think it's time for you to free yourself to the past and move on. You're still young, Tezuka.”
Yukimura started to walk back inside the ballroom. “I'll see you later inside.” He then saw Tezuka's father. “Ah, Kuniharu-san. I've been talking to your son.” He winked Tezuka. “Your son has something to tell you. Ja ne.” He left the father and son at the balcony.
Awkward silence came between them before Kuniharu broke the silence. “How are you faring?” he asked.
Tezuka replied stiffly, “I'm fine-Father. And you?”
“I've been busy with business but I'm fine. Don't worry.” Kuniharu gazed over the gardens. “Seiichi-kun's gardens are really impressive. You should have seen his gardens at his mansion. Most of them were flown from the countries he visited.”
For a while, they fell silent, quietly appreciating the gardens.
“I was surprised that you came here, Kunimitsu,” Kuniharu remarked blandly. “After all, you’ve decided to denounce your birthright to our faces and leave the house.”
Tezuka frowned at his father. “I-- wasn’t supposed to come here but I was literally dragged here by my fellow journalist.”
“I see.” Kuniharu smiled to himself. Seiichi-kun must have heard about my recent heart attack. I guess I owe this to him.
“Father, how long were you acquainted with Yukimura?”
“Saa...” His father shrugged nonchalantly, leaning against the railing. “His father and I weren’t that close. Seiichi-kun and I only met few years ago at a ball. Oh, yes. He was rather ardent on knowing you at that time.”
“Really?” Tezuka raised a brow. “I--didn't know about that.”
“You must be wondering why I haven't been pressuring you to come home lately,”
“I did wonder once but I haven't thinking about it lately. Besides, I've been busy with my work.”
“I see.” His father looked away from his son. “I know you don't want to hear this again but your mother and I really want you to come back home.” He smiled wistfully. “I easily get exhausted these days. I had a heart attack a week ago--” He saw the surprise in Tezuka's eyes. “--but don't worry about me. You could see that I'm still fine.”
“But, Father--” Tezuka was about to say something but his father cut him off. “I just want you to think things over. We could wait for the next few years or so but don't let us wait for you too long.”
Tezuka nodded a bit. “I will.”
“Well then, shall we go back? The air is getting crisper out here.”
“Aa.” They walked back inside as the bitterness between them slowly melted away like snow. Ryoma was yawning while observing the people below when he was found by his cousin.
“There you are.” Ryoma looked up. “You seemed to be bored, Ryo-chan.”
Ryoma yawned again. “When will you end this travesty of a ball, Sei-chan?”
“Mou, Ryoma.” Yukimura pouted. “I've dedicated this ball just for you. Besides, I'll be having a game tonight.”
Ryoma narrowed his eyes. “A game?”
“Yes, a game. It will be a very interesting game.” Yukimura grabbed his hand, dragging him along. “Come on.”
“Oi...Sei-chan! Let go of me.” Ryoma tried to keep up with his cousin. “I don't want join any game of yours.”
“Really, Ryoma.” They stopped in the middle of the main staircase. “Don't be such a killjoy.”
“I'm not being a killjoy here, Seiichi.” Ryoma retorted back. “I'm not interested in joining any of your weird games.”
Yukimura smiled enigmatically. “Don't worry. You will enjoy this game.”
Ignoring Ryoma's icy glare at him, he looked away from him, facing the people at the ballroom. “Good evening, everyone. I hope you're enjoying the ball.”
Murmurs and whispers of agreements echoed inside the room. “I'm glad all of you did. So then, shall we start our annual matchmaking game? As usual, every single person in this room will gather in front of me. Don't try to lie or deceive us for we've already done background check to each of you and--.” Yukimura suddenly grabbed Ryoma's jacket before he could walk away. “Don't think you're exempted in joining this, Ryoma.”
Ryoma folded in his arms at his chest, muttering irritably. “That's it. I'm going to book a ticket for Paris tomorrow morning.”
“Please don't that. Besides...” Yukimura leaned to Ryoma's ear. “You still have that interview for the Kantou Daily Tribune.”
“What?!” Ryoma was outraged. “Why you--”
“Yukimura-sama...” They were interrupted by a man in a black suit. “We're done checking all of them.”
“Good.” The man left quickly. “Well then...” He faced to the group. “Sorry to keep waiting, everyone. Were each of you given a blindfold?”
Some of them responded. “Good. Then you must cover your eyes with it. You will be assisted by these men here. After doing that, someone will guide you to your assigned room and there, you will find your date for tonight.”
Murmurs and whispers echoed the room again. “I don't know if some of you will be together after this but I do wish all of you happiness...” Yukimura glanced at Ryoma. “Especially to you, Ryo-chan. I really want to see you happy after all that pain you've suffered.”
Giving in to his cousin's request, Ryoma sighed reluctantly. “Alright, I'll do this but only this one, okay?”
Yukimura gave him a faint smile before he nodded briefly at his men to start the game and then, helped his cousin tied his blindfold. Tezuka, totally blindfolded, was guided by one of Yukimura's men to his assigned room.
“You're lucky, seishounen. You'll be staying at the penthouse. Yukimura-sama must have favored you that much.”
He didn't reply as he let the man continue. “He rarely let someone use the penthouse except for him, Sanada-kun and his cousin.”
“Cousin?” Tezuka was quite surprised of this information. “I didn't know that he has a cousin.”
The man chuckled softly. “Of course, you wouldn't know. Yukimura-sama is very overprotective to his cousin. He rarely gives out information about him or lets anyone see him.” He paused for a while. “By the way, have you heard of Kinomoto Takehito, that famous photographer?”
Tezuka nodded. “That's his cousin but his real name is--”
“I'll take him from here, Nakahara-san.” Yukimura interrupted the two of them as the man bowed and left quietly. Then, he guided Tezuka inside the penthouse and untied the blindfold.
Tezuka stared directly at him. “Yukimura, were you the one who introduced to our editor the idea of interviewing your cousin?”
Yukimura merely smiled. “Indeed, I was. After all, he was one of the well-sought photographers today and I thought now is the right time for him to be interviewed.”
“But why me? You could have let our entertainment editor interview him.”
“Kikumaru-kun? I’ve read his interviews but I’ve also read yours. You tend to draw out the softer side of the person you interviewed; you’re not biased and fair with your articles.”
“Kikumaru isn’t--” Tezuka was about to defend his co-editor when Yukimura cut him off.
“I didn’t mean to imply that he’s a biased writer. It’s just that I’m more impressed with your interviews than his despite the fact that the people that you interview are mostly politicians, businessmen and world leaders.” Yukimura glanced at his watch. “I think it's time to leave you, Tezuka. My cousin will be here shortly. Have a pleasant time.” He closed the door behind him.
Tezuka went over the balcony, leaning at the railing as he waited for Yukimura's cousin to come in.
He pulled the watch out of his pocket and opened its cover. “I guess it's time for me to say good-bye to you, my--” He then heard the door open.
“Are you the one whom my cousin set up?”
Tezuka furrowed his brows slightly. His voice...Where did I hear it? “Yes, I am.”
He heard a sigh inside. “Sei-chan never fails to amuse me. He told me that you will be interviewing me. From what paper are you?”
“I'm from Kantou Daily Tribune.”
“I see. May I have your name then?”
“I thought Yukimura told you my name,” he replied in a rather surprised tone.
“You see. When I asked my cousin about your name, he suddenly smiled mysteriously at me and told me that I already know you.”
Tezuka sighed. “I understand. My name is Tezuka Kunimitsu.”
Suddenly, he heard a crash inside. “Are you all right there?” He quickly asked.
“I-I'm fine. My glass slipped. That's all.”
“Your hand must have cut from the glass. Let me look--” Tezuka started to walk inside.
“Stop right there!” He stopped just in front of the room. “I told you. I'm fine. You don't have to come inside...”
Tezuka ignored his request as he went in. “Why are you so stub...” He trailed off when he finally met Yukimura's cousin.
Ryoma, who was about to pick up the glass shards, quickly turned away from him. “I told you not to come here, didn't I?” His voice started to waver. “Damn! I--I'm not ready to face you after those years. I've made you suffer--”
He didn't manage to finish as Tezuka embraced him from behind, eliciting a startle from Ryoma. “I should have done this in the first place,” he whispered.
Ryoma's eyes were slowly brimming with tears as he hid his face against his chest. “You've become a fool, Mitsu. How come you didn't give up on me?”
Tezuka embraced him tightly. “Because I can't, Ryoma...You already have my heart. As long as you have it, I'll never let you go,” he replied in a whisper.
Suddenly, he felt Ryoma's body trembling. “Ryoma, are you all right? Ryo--” He then heard Ryoma's muffled laughter. “Oh, you were laughing.”
Ryoma glanced up to him; his eyes, which were filled with tears earlier, are now shining in amusement. “You should listen to yourself. I only left you for a few years and you started to sprout some flowery words.” He raised a brow. “Rather out of your character, don't you think?” Tezuka frowned at him.
“But--” He smiled faintly at Tezuka. “I'm glad that I finally see you again, Mitsu.” He leaned to him closer.
Tezuka sighed in relief. “Aa.”
They remained in each other's arms, afraid to let each other go again.
Minutes later...
They were sitting on a wicker love seat at the balcony, still in each other's arms as they enjoyed watching the full moon.
“I guess I should be grateful to Sei-chan for this.” Ryoma laid his head on the brunet's right shoulder. “I'm not surprised that he knew about you.”
“Aa.” Tezuka gingerly touched the younger man's dark-green hair. “However, I'm surprised that you and Yukimura are cousins. Why didn't you tell me about it?”
Ryoma sighed. “You know how overprotective Sei-chan is, Mitsu. He wouldn't hesitate to hurt anyone those who tried to lay a finger on me.” He looked up to Tezuka. “Even to you.”
Knowing Yukimura's personality that well, the brunet furrowed his brows. “I know.”
They fell into an amicable silence.
“You know,” Ryoma said in a wistful tone. “I still have your picture in my watch. I didn't know why I still keep it but--” He smiled ruefully at Tezuka. “Perhaps my mother was right about that story about the watch.”
“Story?”
“Didn't I tell you about it?” The brunet shook his head. “My mother told me that my watch is one of the two watches that my great-grandfather made for my great-grandmother.”
Ryoma took out his watch, opening its cover, showing Tezuka his picture. “She also told me that if I put the picture of the one who captured my heart in this watch, that person's heart will be mine forever.” He gazed at it.
Tezuka stared at the watch for a while. His watch-It seems to be familiar... He suddenly took out his watch, looking closer to it. I knew it.
“Heh. I didn't know that you have a watch.” He glanced at Ryoma, who was looking curiously at his watch.
“It's my father's gift to me before I left them.”
“Have you--” Ryoma peered hesitantly.
“Father and I have settled our differences, yes,” Tezuka noticed the change in Ryoma's expression. “He told me that I should think things over before coming back to them but I think it's time for me to take over my family business.” He gave him a faint smile. “Thus, my interview with you will be my last article in the paper.”
Ryoma couldn't help but feel happy for his lover. “I'm glad that you and your father have forgiven each other.” He looked at Tezuka's watch. “Did you--”
“Yes.” Tezuka opened the cover. “It has your picture on it--” He felt the sudden stiffening of Ryoma's body. “Ryoma?”
“Where did your father get this watch?” Ryoma asked in a whisper.
“He found it in an antique shop in Kanagawa while he was meeting with his associates. Why?”
“May I take a look on it?”
“Of course.” Tezuka gave it to Ryoma, who quickly accepted it and looked closer on it. He must have noticed the similarities of our watches.
“Mitsu...” Ryoma stared at him. “This watch-this was the one that my great-grandfather made. Look at the engraving at the back.” He gave back to Tezuka his watch.
Tezuka read the small engraving. “For Ayana, my one and only true love...” He looked at Ryoma. “Ayame is your great-grandmother?”
“Yes.” Ryoma showed the engraving on his watch. “He engraved that one while she engraved it this one.” He read it. “For Haruka, the one who has my heart...”
He sighed in exasperation. “Geez. I started to sound like some romantic fool.”
Tezuka, amused by his lover's exasperation, chuckled.
“I hear that.” Ryoma glowered irritable at him. “This is all your fault, you know.”
“Of course.” Tezuka ruffled his hair. “But this is also your fault, Ryoma.”
“Huh?” Ryoma looked quizzically. “What do you mean by that?”
“You still owe me a kiss from the last time.”
“A kiss? What kiss...” Ryoma trailed off, flustered a bit as he finally remembered the last thing he did to Tezuka before leaving Japan.
“You don't have to bring that up--”
Tezuka kissed him, silencing him for a while.
Ryoma was a bit startled at first; as it progressed, he eventually gave in to the joy and happiness that he felt in his heart, knowing that their love was, as they say, timeless.
Next day...
Tezuka entered the editor-in-chief's office, carrying his resignation letter and his finished interview and placing them on her table.
Seeing the letter in front of her, Ryuuzaki sighed. “I should have known that this was coming. I guess you've decided to take over your father's company. Did you tell Oishi-kun about this?”
“Yes,” Tezuka replied in a grave tone.
She picked up his written interview, reading it for a while. “You really gave your all with this interview, didn't you?” She placed it back. “I think this is your best article that you've written for this paper.” She smiled gratefully. “Thank you.”
Tezuka bowed politely to her. “Thank you for letting me experience working here, Ryuuzaki-san.”
“You're welcome. I'll inform everyone about your resignation later in the meeting. You may take your leave.”
Bowing to her for the last time, he left her office silently.
She sighed again. “I guess Yukimura was right all along,” she murmured as her thoughts went back to her telephone conversation with the hotelier.
~~*~~
Ryuuzaki was writing her editorial for tomorrow's paper when the famed hotelier gave her a call.
“Yukimura-kun, I was about to call you there. By the way, thank you for the invitations,” she replied, her fingers touching the envelopes.
“Oh, you have them?” Yukimura sighed in relief. “Thank goodness. Did my secretary give you three?”
“Yes. Let's see.” She read the names on the invitations. “For me...Fuji and...Tezuka?” She eyed the last envelope closer. “Tezuka? Are, did Tsubahime-san make a mistake?”
He chuckled. “No, she didn't. I intentionally invited your news editor at the ball.”
“Really?” That perked the editor-in-chief's interest up.This is interesting.
“Why a sudden interest on him? You, of all people, should know that he's the son of the chairman of Tezuka International.” She smiled knowingly. “There has to be a reason why you send him an invitation.”
“All right.” He sighed. “So you got me. My cousin will be returning home from France tomorrow.”
“Then?”
“You see, he has this altercation with Tezuka years ago and I think now is the time for them to resolve.”
“I see.” She leaned back on her chair. “So what are you planning to do? What do you want me to do?”
“An interview.” She quirked a brow. “All I ask from you is to let Tezuka interview my cousin.”
“I presume that your cousin is very famous in some field that you want Tezuka to interview. So who is he?”
“You might have heard of him.” She could hear the joy in the hotelier's voice. “He's Kinomoto Takehito.”
“EH?!” She was totally taken aback with his revelation. “Your cousin is that famous photographer?”
“So what do you think, Ryuuzaki-san? This is an offer too good to resist, don't you think?”
What a cunning guy. I can see the reason why some businessmen feared him. She sighed in resignation. I'm sorry, Tezuka. “All right. I'll accept your offer. I'll try to convince him to do the interview.”
“Good. I'll see you at the ball then.” He ended their conversation.
She placed down the phone. I wonder what's their altercation about. I think this is worth finding out.
She picked up the intercom as she called Tezuka to come to her office.
~~*~~
“Obaachan?”
She snapped out of her thoughts when she saw her granddaughter standing in front of her. “Takashima-san has arrived.”
“I see. Let him in, Sakuno.” She quickly arranged her papers and pens on her table.
Sakuno bowed politely. “Yes.” She opened the door, letting in the visitor. “Takashima-san, you may enter.”
“Ah, Ryuuzaki-san. Good morning! About that interview...”
“Oh, yes.” Ryuuzaki quickly gave him a smile as if nothing happened.
A week later...
On the special issue of Kantou Daily Tribune was a headline report about Tezuka Kuniharu's relinquishment of his position, being the chairman of Tezuka International in favor of his only son, Kunimitsu, who suddenly reappeared in the society.
Also in the issue was Tezuka's last interview with the famous photographer Kinomoto Takehito (a.k.a. Echizen Ryoma) where an interesting picture was placed there.
It was taken by Yukimura himself during the morning after the Valentine ball where Tezuka and Ryoma were strolling along the hidden garden path of the hotel. Ryoma was talking animatedly to the brunet, his eyes shimmered in happiness; while Tezuka, though his face was impassive as usual, had a faint amused smile on his face.
Quite picture perfect, don't you think?
There you have it. Finally I've finished writing it. *throws the confetti to herself*
So what do you think? Feel free to comment and suggest for a better title for this story.
This is still unbeta'ed and---I might put this in Ff.net.
This is Gen, signing out. *winks*