A/N: I'm gonna start another new fic, since Hidden from Reality is drawing to a close. That's all. It's sort-of a continuation to it, actually.

Summary: Rukawa leaves Japan to continue his training. He knows Haruko's deep love for him, but she doesn't know that her feelings are returned. 5 years have passed, and so, Rukawa decides to return home to Kanagawa. He sees Haruko. Still the same old her, only she was far more beautiful than before.

And she has someone else in her life; an old colleague, but not Sakuragi.

Now he has to find a way to get Haruko's attention and love. Without repeating the past mistakes he'd done to her.

Disclaimer: I do not own Slam Dunk. Simple logic, people.

I see her tears. She is crying.

Ever since I've decided to leave for America, I've heard her crying after every practice game.

She doesn't know how much pain I suffer every time I hear her cry.

She doesn't know how much pain I endure each passing day.

No one knows what I feel for her. But I don't care if they do.

She has given light to my life. She inspires me in every game I'm in.

And so, I have made a promise for her in silence.

I know that every night she'll have tears flowing in her eyes; she won't be able to sleep because of me.

I know that she'll miss me and will never forget me.

So I promise you, Haruko, I'll be back after 5 years, just for you.

5 years of tireless training and endless pain.

But by then, I'll be the best.

And you'll be cheering for me again. And you'll see the real me I've hidden for years.

That is my promise to you.