The Prince and the Pauper

moontonic18

Ryoma x Sakuno

Disclaimer: I do not own prince of tennis

** Chapter 9. Popsicle **

Heal the world

Make it a better place

For you and for me and the

Entire human race

Michael Jackson's song stung my heart; it's a simple song with a vivid meaning that provides us hope. I reflected on one of his songs as I finished watching a documentary about his musical life.

I want to heal the world but how could I possibly do that, when I can feel that there's something wrong or missing? I heaved out a sigh as I played with my mug which contains a cup full of warm milk. This moment feels so serene — staring across the beautifully lit night sky, drinking warm milk, and most of all, I relieved myself from oh-so-stressful school works. I opted to stay at the balcony for a few minutes before I go to sleep. I don't have classes tomorrow so it's okay for me to stay up late.

I decided to count the stars, idiotically thinking that I could possibly do so. Its funny how the night sky looked like, the crescent moon seemed similar to a smiley face because of the two stars shining brightly on top of it "Does this mean I'll have a great day tomorrow?" I talked to it. It's considered as a Heavenly Body so I gave it a shot "please answer my plea…" my face formed into a puppy dog pout. I felt ridiculous but it was fun, and besides, no one can see me anyway.

I closed my eyes and freed my mind from everything.

BEEP BEEP

I felt my face crease into a sour one as I heard my celphone beeping from my pocket. Whoever it is, he or she sure has 'great timing'

I flipped my phone to read a message from Keisuke. It read:

Sleep already Sakuno :P It's already late. I bet you're looking at the stars now. Hahaha.

-end of message-

This guy has gone completely insane. I laughed a bit as I read his message and decided to text back:

I'm sleeping RIGHT NOW so don't disturb me! ZZZZZ =_= and how come you know what I'm currently doing…?? Creepy! Hahahaha!

-message sent-

Obviously, the sleeping thing isn't true; I just decided to make fun of him again. Tomoka, Keisuke and I have always been joking around each other, that is, whenever we feel like it. I don't know exactly when it started; all I know is, one day Tomoka and I were throwing M&M's at him while he's laughing and kept calling us names like 'chocolate monsters' and other jest-like names that are acceptable. It went on like that.

BEEP BEEP

Keisuke replied immediately:

If I were there, I'd present my right hand and ask you to pick one finger. I'll use your choice to tickle myself. My guess was right! You really are staring at it. Tomoka and I already know that whenever it's Friday night, you always do that. Don't stay up too late. Remember what Tomoka said.

-end of message-

Frankly, his message was too long that I find it hard to comprehend. Way to go Keisuke, you just disrupted my once-in-a-week serene session. I should've left my phone on top of my study table awhile ago.

My phone's clock screen saver was too big for me not to pay any attention to it. As much as I hate to admit it, Keisuke's right; it's already quarter past twelve o'clock in the morning. My body needs to rest or else I won't have enough energy for tomorrow. I flipped my phone again to read Tomoka's group message approximately 3 hours ago.

TomoKeiSaku:

I can't wait 4 our date tmrw!! _ don't be late… 11 o'clock am sharp!

Have a Gudnyt sleep guys!

-end of message-

"Tomokeisaku?" I asked the phone satirically. Without my mind's consent, my laugh suddenly burst out. I still can't get enough of Tomoka's 'innovative' ideas.

Tomoka + Keisuke + Sakuno= TomoKeiSaku

"You're a genius Tomoka…" a gentle smile took over my face "you've always been my tape recorder: the one who willingly listens to my shallow complaints in life"

I gently threw my celphone inside my pocket and drank what's left of the hot milk. "Okay, bed time starts now…" I yawned and swiftly shoved my body onto my bed.

"No-way…" my jaw practically dropped at the sight of the light grey sky. This day is supposed to be fun. I crossed my fingers as I carried on my child-like journey to our favourite meeting place, the coffee shop.

On my way, I inadvertently studied couples walking side by side while holding hands and such. I started to wonder if Ryoma has a girlfriend already. Ahhh! Truth be told, I hated the idea. I suddenly stopped walking upon the thought. "Seriously, Sakuno, when will you end your illusions?" I scolded myself and, as I always do, mentally slapped myself hundreds of times.

"Hey Sakuno!!" I suddenly heard Tomoka's jolly and charming voice. I tilted my head to realize that I was already at the coffee shop. Silly me, had I continued my illusions, I definitely would have gone to Okinawa without me noticing it. Seriously, I think I really need to grow up!

I waved at Tomoka as I marched my way to our table. As soon as I sat on the chair, I threw my head on top of the table; still mentally slapping myself for thinking that way. I heaved out a heavy sigh. Tomoka didn't say anything; she gave me a moment to reflect. The dark grey sky, which was light just a few moments ago, made me feel more stupid.

Finally, I regained myself and sat properly. "Tomoka, I miss Ryoma…" I suddenly blurted out.

"Sakuno…" her voice became serious, warm and gentle "look at me" she added. I did as she told me; I stared at her for a moment. I admired her alluring features and womanly demeanor. The next thing I studied was her attire. Her aqua-colored polo shirt accentuated her flawless skin. Her elegant long layered hairstyle really suits her. I started to wish I was more like her.

"Sakuno…" she continued, causing me to think of Ryoma and myself again. "I know it's been 4 long years, and I, being a witness on how much you value him, am starting to get worried for you…" she trailed off and looked at the window, or should I say, into wilderness.

"I'm not saying that he's not coming back. I KNOW HE'S GOING TO COME BACK. I just don't know when" she faced me again, still keeping her serious and cool expression "the thing that makes me worry is the fact that you're giving up. You're NOT giving up on him; rather, you're giving up on yourself" she sighed as her voice became more delicate "we've known each other for years now, so I know that you're somehow doubting your importance." She gently placed both her right and left palms on top of the table "Please believe in yourself. We are here to support you."

Her speech made me want to cry; the way she delivered those lines was full of conviction and care "Thank you Tomoka…" my voice began trembling "I'm sorry and I promise to do my best" I smiled at her "thank you, best friend." She then, smiled at me. I'm so glad I have Tomoka by my side. Life just wouldn't be the same without her.

"Sorry for being late!" Keisuke's familiar voice suddenly disrupted the moment. Tomoka and I stared at him for a few seconds, unsure of what kind of reaction we are supposed to give him. He is, after all, a couple of minutes late.

"YOU'RE LATE!" Tomoka and I shouted at Keisuke in unison. Keisuke wore a simple black shirt and jeans, and surprisingly, his hair looked so messed up.

Tomoka started to smile teasingly, her serious expression vanished quickly. "What's up with your hair?" she laughed "is it too windy outside, or are you just too arrogant, that even your hair can't handle the AIR inside your head?" she stuck her tongue out. I laughed along.

"ha-ha. Very funny Tomoka" Keisuke pointed at a group of girls giggling, looking at him like he's some kind of rare and delicious cake "Whatever the case is, girls think otherwise" He sat down next to Tomoka while flashing Tomoka his winning smile.

"Wow… the weather sure is… nice" my hands suddenly found its way to my necklace upon seeing rain starting to pour. I started playing with my silver 'S' pendant. Grandma gave it to me 3 months ago. I could hear Keisuke and Tomoka talking as my mind suddenly started to drift away. Tomoka was right, how can I help in 'healing the world' when I can't even start with myself? I guess I was too caught up being pessimistic so as to pull myself down.

"Sakuno, Sakuno!" Keisuke swiftly called out my name "Tomoka said she has to leave"

"What?!" I started to panic though I don't know why. I turned to face Tomoka, looking like a depressed puppy "Why'd you have to leave so soon?"

Tomoka whined "Mom just texted me. She said we have to help in preparing for her best friend's surprise birthday party" she rolled her eyes "seriously, she should have told me earlier!" she kept complaining as if her mom would hear her. Keisuke stood up as he sighed "I guess we have no choice, we'll come with you until you get to the train station safely" Keisuke flashed Tomoka a serious expression "please DO be careful!" he opened his backpack and threw a jacket at Tomoka.

"HEY!" Tomoka's veins popped out "I appreciate the concern. I can take care of myself ok? I can go to the train station by myself"

Keisuke's eyes looked different, fear and concern was what it's showing "I know you can take care of yourself, but you have to be extra careful" he took the jacket then handed it to her properly "if the rain gets heavier… wear this"

Tomoka's aura suddenly changed into a mystified one. She stared at Keisuke for a moment as Keisuke did the same thing. "You kind of remind me of something…" Tomoka blurted out. She swiftly looked at me, hoping to put an end to the awkward moment "Well… have fun with this psychotic freak!" she laughed wickedly, seeming to have regained her usual self.

Keisuke's veins popped out. "yeah yeah yeah, just go already" his eyebrows creased as he placed heisright hand on top of Tomoka's head. "Text us when you get there" looking at Tomoka's head, I realized how much big Keisuke really got. Honestly, if I were not in any way close to them, I'd think they're a couple. Probably it's because they're both good-looking.

"Sure" Tomoka smiled at us as she wrapped Keisuke's jacket around her upper body. Keisuke and I watched carefully as Tomoka made her way out the door.

"Take care!" I shouted.

Keisuke started scratching his chin, apparently thinking about something.

"What is it?" I asked, baffled. Come to think of it, Keisuke and I haven't had a long talk for a year.

"So…" he faced me "Where do you want to go? I want to kill some time before I start practicing for next week's game"

The moment he asked me, I suddenly remembered what Mitsuki onee-chan told me 4 years ago; that Keisuke came here for a special reason. That is, to find his unidentified childhood friend. Come to think of it, maybe he's too active in playing tennis that's why he never brings up this topic.

"Hmm… Keisuke, I want to see your house!" my brain suddenly hatched an idea. "I'm kind of intrigued as to what you were like when you were a child. You rarely mention about your past to us so I'd like to at least see some pictures of you back then"

Keisuke smiled naturally "You have a point" he lightly touched my forehead using his index finger "as your 'brother,' you have to know something about my past, right?" Keisuke swept his hair "since everyone's out, I guess you can ransack our house" he invited me as comfortably as he can.

"I'm neither a character from Plants vs. Zombies nor a monster" I blurted out proudly.

"I know you're not" Keisuke admitted "You're just my crazy little sister" he laughed, thinking how appropriate his last sentence was.

"Is it me, or has your house [slash] mansion gotten a lot bigger?" I stood in awe in front of Sanada residence's gate. Their house looks just like any Hollywood star's house, only, more traditional and level-headed.

"Keisuke, I never get tired of staring at your house from afar; it's so conspicuous!" from the outside, Sanada residence may portray that 'hard to please' impression, but the truth of the matter is, it's very warm and cozy inside. Everyone's just so welcoming.

Keisuke chuckled "it's not a mansion… it's a home" I have to admit, I fell in love with what he said. It is true in every way. A house/mansion is nothing if it's shrouded with hatred and shame. We tend to focus on its outer beauty, when in fact, what matters most is the good vibe and love it gives off. It's infinite times better to call it a HOME.

I studied their house again before entering. The structure looks similar to Buckingham Palace, but the design screams traditional Japan. There's a historic and modern feel to it. There's a cute pond that has a wooden bridge on top of it, and there are different plants that would make you feel calm and at ease. You'll have to pass through the garden before reaching the house itself. For me, it's like having a mini journey in order to reach a Kingdom.

I pulled Keisuke's left sleeve as we strode through their hallway "Keisuke, how come we rarely come here?" I asked as I carefully studied the built and design of their home.

Keisuke laughed "that's because we never get too much time to goof around" He suddenly stopped walking, and then turned his head to face me "wait here Sakuno, I'll just call Mrs. Fields to prepare something for you" he led me to the living room and signalled me to sit there and wait patiently.

"Mrs. Fields?" I never knew they had someone here with that name. She's probably their housekeeper.

I scanned the room, thinking how pretty it is. Earth colors and earth-themed works of art dominated the whole room. The chairs look like it has been pulled out from Buckingham palace. I searched for the sofa. Up to my dismay, I was so caught up to what I heard that I totally missed the sofa, causing my butt to fall off the carpeted floor "ouch" I looked around. Good thing Keisuke was not here to witness such humiliation. This is a proof how little improvements I have achieved.

Am I still just a pauper? Whichever the case is… even if I still think of myself as a pauper ambitiously waiting for her prince to get back to her, I will stay true to who I am and do my best in becoming the successful and righteous person I know I can be. Tomoka's right, I just have to keep believing in myself.

"Wow… what a cute picture!" excitement suddenly got over me as my eyes grab hold of their family picture lying peacefully on the glass table beside where I was sitting. It's amazing how Keisuke looks like his mom and how Mitsuki onee-chan resembles her dad. I decided to take a picture of it using my celphone's camera; it was just too much to miss. My celphone beeped right after I captured the hpoto.

It's a message from Tomoka:

Sakuno and Keisuke. I'm here already here. Thank you so much!

-end of message-

"Sakuno… let's go. I have some things to show you" Keisuke came in the living room.

"So since you were a kid, you already loved playing outdoors! I should have known" I practically talked to myself. As of the moment, I am creating a mess inside Keisuke's room while Keisuke doesn't even mind it. Meanwhile, he's using his computer. His room doesn't look like any guy's room. It was too CLEAN… even cleaner then my room. His king sized bed was very clean and simple, and his room isn't filled with weird posters and stuffs. It hasn't changed much since Tomoka and I last visited here.

"Keisuke… do you have playmates back then? I only see pictures of you here…" I asked, of course, casually. I looked up and stared at his room's skyroof while waiting for an answer. The weather looks nice now. I hope Tomoka's having a good time.

"There's this one girl…" Keisuke tried to whisper, but I still heard it loud and clear. I almost forgot, the girl he must definitely be talking about was the girl the Mitsuki onee-chan mentioned to me.

"What's her name?" I asked nicely, hoping that my question won't cause him any sad or unwanted emotion. I stood beside him.

"I don't know her name…" he looked down "all I know is she's really special to me" he smiled faintly "although I can't recall what she looks like, I still remember all the wonderful feelings that she made me feel…" he trailed off "This is the only secret that I have not told anyone but my sister" he looked at me seriously "sorry… I just can't talk about it too much"

I suddenly felt the urge to comfort him "That's okay. You don't have to force yourself." I gave him my sincerest smile.

"I know I am not her best friend; in fact, she has lots of friends, so maybe she doesn't recall me anymore" he stared at his skyroof "truth is, I was very distant to others when I was a child; others don't come close to me because they are scared of me for some reasons, but she's different. She always smiles and says hi to me, and even shared me half of her chocolate flavored Popsicle. She made others see the good and friendly kid I really was"

Happiness and sadness covered every inch of his face. Somehow, the room suddenly felt so empty. He looked at me "it may seem shallow of a reason but she made a big impact in my life" he chuckled, possibly, trying to wipe away the sadness shrouding his dream-come-true-like face "I want to see and thank her. She served as my light and strength"

Silence dominated the room for a few minutes. She must have been his first love; based from I am witnessing right now, I'd say he still loves her dearly.

"If you want to find her, I can help" I offered my help and support. After all, that's all I can give to him "for the mean time, if you have any remembrance of her… just hold on to it" I looked at him, hoping for a good answer "you have any remembrance of her?"

His face lightened up "Yes I do!"

I sighed in relief "Good. What is it?" Ok, I admit it, this issue is very intriguing. I'm his 'little sister' after all, so I was hoping he'd tell me.

"It's my little secret" he winked at me "you heard too much of the story already."

"WHAT?! Unfair!!!" I squealed. I know I'm acting like a child, but it's like he gave me the appetizer and main course, but there's no dessert "I said I'd help you, right?" I tried to convince him.

"This is something I want to accomplish on my own" Keisuke's face was as serious as any business man holding a meeting, so I had no choice but to give up "Ok fine"

"And please don't tell ANYONE, even Tomoka, about this. I'm not yet ready for people to know that" he suddenly threw himself oh his bed, looking relaxed as ever "this would be our little secret. Got that?" he needed to reassure.

"Honestly, there nothing I could do about it anyway" I tried to clean up the mess I made. As I was putting the albums to their proper places, I suddenly felt the embrace of warm and lean arms. I turned to see Keisuke hugging me from behind. This made me feel a little puzzled and awkward. His eyes were closed, as if savouring the moment "Thank you Sakuno. I feel a lot better"

I have no idea what to do and how to end this properly so I answered as quickly as I could "no problem!" then I swiftly flew to get the other things I need to arrange.

He suddenly laughed like there's no tomorrow "You really are still a child!"

What exactly did he mean by that? And why all of a sudden? "Hey, watch what you're saying weirdo! Bleh!" I stuck my tongue out.

"Ok… off you go then, little girl. We wouldn't want to get your Grandma worried, now would we?" he chuckled "plus, I have to train now…"

"Seriously, you really need to show this side of you to other girls! How come Tomoka and I only know how weird you are?!" I teased him. Well it's true, almost every girl has a crush on him… why? Because they THINK he's cool, when in fact, he's just a normal guy who, like any human, also has weird moments with his friends. Every prince has a side of them which they only show to people who are very close to them. I wonder, is Ryoma the same?

"I'll also text Tomoka. I'll tell her to get home safely" he sighed in relief "good thing she's with her mom!"

Wow, he's really worried about Tomoka… could it be…?

"Aha-aha-aha-aha!" I suddenly laughed like I learned something intriguing and juicy.

"What?" Keisuke looked at me like I'm some kind of an insane person.

I chuckled frivolously "don't mind me. Aha-aha-aha-aha!"

"You must be tired. Get home!" he ordered, still puzzled.

(NORMAL POV)

The night was cold and windy; people rejoice as stars dominated the night sky. "It sure is nice to walk during the night every once in a while" Tomoka talked to herself as she made her way to her best friend's home.

KNOCK KOCK

"Sakuno?" she stopped in front of her best friend's room's door. "I'm here now. Can I come in?"

"Ok" Sakuno politely opened the door for her best friend. She smiled at her "Is it ok for you to go home a little late? Your mom might get worried"

Tomoka smiled "Relax, I just really need my CD's. My mom needs to use it tomorrow" Tomoka hurriedly opened her beige messenger bag "just let me arrange my bag so those CD's can fit in"

Sakuno got worried for her best friend "are you sure you're fine going home by yourself, at this hour at night?"

Tomoka laughed, still arranging her bag "Well, I'm still wearing Keisuke's jacket and it's not that late. Don't worry!"

Little did Tomoka know that a piece of paper fell out her bag… an important piece of paper. Sakuno didn't notice this either for she was too busy worrying.

"Ok, now that I got what I need, I'll go now. I don't' want to worry you" Tomoka hugged her best friend. "Thanks and stop worrying too much, ok?" she started walking out of Sakuno's room.

"Wait, I'll accompany you downstairs" Sakuno offered.

While no one was inside Sakuno's room, her Grandma came in, hoping she'd find a cookbook. Good thing for her, she easily found one while her granddaughter's still out. Upon exiting the room, she found a piece of paper lying on the floor. She opened it to see a drawing.

"It looks like a child drew this" she told herself as she examined the paper. The content of the paper was a drawing of a girl holding 7 pieces of brown flowers. There's a scribble but she couldn't read it.

"Sakuno… you shouldn't leave your things lying on the floor" she smiled at the paper as if its her own granddaughter "I'll just put it in your bag" she then put it in her granddaughter's school bag.

`To Be Continued`

* what exactly does the sketch hold?? find out! ;P

Finally, I'm done with another chapter. My sincerest apologies for the very very slow update. Since I have a short vacation, I might be able to update my story a little faster. Thank you so much!

ack! T_T can't think much because of my freakin' pharyngitis... ;(