It Started with a Hello

xiv

It had been a few months since the Winter Cup.

Hanamiya watched silently as his mom moved about the kitchen, cooking. A beanie was placed on her head, and it was a reminder of the battle she has been fighting.

A knock on the door brought him out from his thoughts.

"Will you get that, Makoto?"

He nodded. "Sure."

He wasn't too sure who could be at his door at this hour. Maybe one of his teammates? But they would usually text first.

Opening the door he was greeted with a surprising sight.

"[Last Name]?"

She smiled. "You weren't in class today, so I offered to bring your work to you. But then I realized I didn't know where you lived, so Hara-san told me."

He didn't say anything, grabbing the papers she was offering.

"Makoto, who is it?" His mom peeked outside, instantly smiling at the girl. "Oh! Is this that girl? I'm Makoto's mom. It's nice to finally meet you!"

"Mom," he grunted warningly, but was ignored by both girls.

"I'm [Last and First Name]! It's nice to meet you, too!"

"Why don't you come in and stay for dinner?"

"Mom," he repeated.

[Last Name]'s gaze went to Hanamiya's then back to his mom. "Are you sure? I don't want to intrude."

His mom grabbed her hands, practically dragging her in. "No worries! And don't mind Makoto, he can be a baby sometimes."

Hanamiya groaned at the sounds of their laughter. It was going to be a long night.

...

I don't know what to name his mom.

-Caity