𝐎𝐧𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐚𝐬𝐭 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞 | 𝐔. 𝐖𝐀𝐊𝐀𝐓𝐎𝐒𝐇𝐈

*.・+★ 06 || Mixed Party

After congratulating Hiroki on his impressive performance, Ayumi and I turned our attention to Ushijima, who stood a few feet away. He was engaged in a conversation with Tendou, their expressions serious yet animated. It seemed they were discussing the game and strategizing for future matches.

"Ayumi, do you think we should approach Ushijima and join the conversation?"

Ayumi glanced at Ushijima and Tendou before grinning mischievously. "Why not? Let's add some excitement to their discussion."

We made our way towards them, trying not to disrupt their conversation. As we approached, Ushijima's eyes briefly flickered toward me, and I couldn't help but feel a flutter of anticipation. Tendou, on the other hand, had a glint in his eyes as he noticed our arrival.

"Well, well, well, if it isn't Y/N and Ayumi. What brings you lovely ladies over here?"

Ayumi, always quick with her words, jumped in with her trademark charm.

"Oh, you know us, Satori. We can't resist joining in on an interesting conversation. And with Ushijima here, it's bound to be intriguing."

Satori and Ayumi were best friends in grade school, but the conflict between them was always so interesting. They had serious disagreements over the little things which was funny.

Ushijima's gaze remained focused, his demeanor calm and composed as always. I took a deep breath, summoning my own confidence, and joined the conversation.

"Hey, guys! Great game today! You really nailed it out there. And Ushijima, your skills are as impressive as ever."

Ushijima nodded in acknowledgment, his voice measured and direct.

"Thank you. We put in a lot of practice to improve our performance. It's all about hard work and dedication."

Tendou, ever the playful one, couldn't resist adding his own witty remark. "Hard work and dedication, huh? Y/N, are you taking notes? Maybe Ushijima's secret to success will rub off on you."

I chuckled, appreciating Tendou's humor, as well as the slight blush that crept onto Ushijima's cheeks. It seemed my presence still had an effect on him, however subtle. Ayumi hit the red head on the other hand.

"Satori, just shut up."

Everyone exchanged a few laughs except Ushijima, for he didn't get anything quickly as much.

"Well, Tendou, I can always use some inspiration. Maybe Ushijima can give me a few pointers."

Ushijima's stoic expression softened slightly, a hint of a smile playing at the corners of his lips.

"If you're serious about improving, I'm always willing to help. Dedication is the key, after all."

As our conversation continued, I couldn't help but feel a sense of warmth and camaraderie. The dynamic between Ushijima, Tendou, Ayumi, and myself was unexpectedly harmonious. We laughed, shared stories, and even made plans to hang out outside of school.

As the conversation with the four of us unfolded, we were interrupted by the arrival of Akira Saito, the younger coach of the team. He seemed eager to share some important information, and his presence piqued our curiosity.

"Hey, everyone. Sorry to interrupt, but I have some news to share. Y/N, I heard from a reliable source that you're interested in pursuing a career in sports, is that correct?"

I felt a surge of surprise ripple through the air as the other teammates turned their attention towards me. I hadn't expected my aspirations to be known so widely, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of excitement and trepidation.

"Uh, yes, that's true. I've always had a passion for sports, and I'm considering it as a career path."

Coach Saito's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he continued. "Well, that's great news! I think it's important for you to have hands-on experience and learn from watching the game up close. How about attending our next game as an honorary guest? You'll get a chance to observe the players and gain valuable insights."

The sudden proposition caught me off guard, and I glanced around at the surprised faces of everyone else. The other coach, who had been observing from a distance, seemed unimpressed by Coach Saito's suggestion. His disapproving gaze lingered on me briefly before he turned away, as if dismissing the idea altogether.

"Wow, Coach Saito, that's incredibly generous of you. I'd be honored to watch the game up close and learn from the players. Thank you for this opportunity."

Coach Saito smiled warmly, his enthusiasm infectious. "It's my pleasure, Y/N. We're always looking for dedicated individuals who are passionate about the sport. This could be a great learning experience for you, and who knows, it might even shape your future decisions."

I nodded, a mix of excitement and nervousness bubbling inside me. The unexpected turn of events opened up a new avenue for me to explore, and I couldn't help but feel grateful for the chance to witness the game firsthand.

As the conversation with Coach Saito came to an end, I exchanged glances with the others. Their expressions reflected a mix of surprise and curiosity. It was clear that this unexpected opportunity had left an impression on all of us.

"Well, it looks like I'm in for an exciting adventure. I can't wait to see the game and learn from the talented players on the team."

Ushijima's stoic demeanor softened slightly as he offered a supportive nod. "It's a good opportunity. Make the most of it, Y/N."

Ayumi, always the source of lightheartedness, couldn't resist adding her own playful remark."You'll be rubbing shoulders with the future stars of the sports world, Y/N. Don't forget us, little people, when you make it big! Remember, I can't grow old alone, so you'll need to find someone for me while you're doing this."

Tendou gave a glance to Ayumi, hitting a remark of his own. "Oh I don't think no one will accept your offer. Oh well!"

We all laughed, the tension of the moment dissipating, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of camaraderie and anticipation for the journey that lay ahead. With Coach Saito's unexpected offer, my path had taken an exciting turn, and I was determined to embrace the opportunity and see where it led me.

-

As I made my way out of the gym, my mind still buzzing with excitement from Coach Saito's unexpected invitation, I heard a familiar voice calling out to me. It was Semi, jogging to catch up with me.

"Hey, Y/N! Wait up!"

I turned around, a smile forming on my lips as I saw Semi approaching. "Hey, Semi! What's up?"

"Not much, just finished up with the conversation from the aftermath. I saw you talking with Coach Saito earlier. What did he want?"

"Oh, he had something interesting to share. He found out about my interest in pursuing a career in sports, and he invited me to watch the next game up close. Can you believe it?"

Semi's eyes widened with surprise, and a grin spread across his face. "That's amazing, Y/N! It's a fantastic opportunity for you. I'm really happy for you."

"Thank you, Semi. It was unexpected, but I'm excited to see where it takes me. Who knows, maybe it'll provide some clarity about my future path."

"Definitely! Sometimes, unexpected opportunities can lead to incredible discoveries. I'm sure you'll make the most of it."

We continued to walk and talk, the conversation flowing effortlessly between us. It was comforting to have someone like Semi by my side, offering support and encouragement during this pivotal time in my life. As we shared our hopes, fears, and aspirations, it felt like our bond was growing stronger.

As we reached a point where our paths diverged, we came to a halt. I couldn't help but feel a tinge of sadness at the thought of parting ways.

"Well, I guess this is where we part ways. Thanks for walking with me, Semi. It was nice talking to you."

He stopped before departing, needing to say something off of his mind.

"Y/N, can I be honest with you about something?

I nodded, curiosity piqued. "Of course, Semi. You can always be honest with me.

Semi hesitated for a moment as if carefully choosing his words.

"Well, ever since we met, I've felt a special connection with you. You're talented, and determined, and your smile... it's like a ray of sunshine. I can't help but be drawn to you."

His confession caught me off guard, and I felt a mix of surprise and warmth spreading through me.

"I don't what to say Semi.."

"You don't have to say anything Y/N! I just wanted to tell you. It's been really heavy on my chest. I'll see you later, take care."

With a final wave, we went our separate ways, both carrying a renewed sense of determination and excitement for the future. The conversation with Semi lifted my spirits, reminding me that I had a strong support system and friends who believed in me. The unexpected confession led be to believe different things. I couldn't help but be flushed by it.

As I bid farewell to Semi and began walking on my own, lost in my thoughts and the lingering warmth of our conversation, I felt a presence behind me. A familiar presence that sent a shiver down my spine. I turned slowly, and there he was-Ushijima, standing tall and stoic, his gaze fixed upon me.

"Y/N."

His voice was as calm and commanding as ever, leaving me momentarily speechless. I hadn't expected him to be there, to have overheard my conversation with Semi. But there was no denying it now. He knew.

"Ushijima... How long have you been standing there?"

Ushijima's gaze held an intensity that made my heart race, yet his expression remained impassive.

"Long enough to hear what was said."

His straightforward response took me by surprise. I had grown accustomed to his brevity, but this time, his words held a weight that made my cheeks flush with a mix of embarrassment and anticipation.

"I... I didn't mean for you to hear that, Ushijima. It was a private conversation between Semi and me."

Ushijima's gaze softened ever so slightly, a hint of understanding in his eyes. "I apologize for eavesdropping. It was not my intention. But it seems... things have become more complicated."

His words hung in the air, the tension between us palpable. I felt a mixture of nervousness and curiosity, unsure of where this conversation would lead.

"What do you mean, Ushijima? What's complicated?"

Ushijima took a step closer, his presence almost overwhelming. I could feel my heartbeat quickening in response. "Do you believe in me, Y/N?"

His question caught me off guard, leaving me momentarily speechless. Ushijima rarely showed vulnerability, and his words held a hint of insecurity that I had never seen before.

"Of course, I believe in you. You're an exceptional athlete, and your dedication and determination are unmatched. I've always admired your skills on the court."

Ushijima's stoic expression remained unchanged, but I could sense a flicker of something deeper in his eyes.

"That's good to hear."

As Ushijima and I stood there, our gaze locked in a silent understanding, I couldn't help but feel a newfound sense of curiosity for what the future held-for both of us.

After a minute, he turned and left without a word to linger. He always made something turn on inside of me, making my heart feel heavy. I couldn't understand what it was but I just knew I wasn't over him just yet even if I distracted myself. Maybe I just need to confront my feelings.