𝐅𝐎𝐔𝐑. 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐃
Modern Day Rom-Com

MINAKO LIKES TO THINK THAT SHE HAD gotten used to Tanaka's odd behavior and his cautious/protective nature. After all, she had faced the other end of Tanaka's cold and gruff attitude. Then again, she was to blame for some of it because her indifference wasn't helpful in the slightest. But somewhere along the lines, the two had become friends — Minako has no idea how it happened but she likes to think it's because he saved her from an annoying creep from a nearby school or because they never shut up and loved to annoy her — and the rest was sort of history. Of course, she had her favorites in the team, most of the time it's Suga or Ennoshita because they don't piss her off, but Tanaka was always a close second. He always included her in whatever they were doing and made it habit to check up on her whenever he could with the two being in the same class. Not to mention, Minako didn't censor her words making her an easy target for boys who can't take no for an answer which prompted Tanaka to scare off every guy that had the slightest interest in her. The two bonded over their internal rage that was always disapproved by Daichi and the fact that Tanaka's older sister is the best and babied Minako over Tanaka much to the wing spiker's displeasure. Still, it doesn't mean that Minako always took Tanaka's side, it was simply funnier to disagree with him and see how he reacted.

      This wasn't to say that she was a terrible friend, in her defense, Tanaka did the same thing whenever she and Kyoga publicly fought in front of the team. He always sided with her brother to get a reaction out of her. In a way, Tanaka was more like a second brother than the rest of them. After all, he annoyed her just as much as Kyoga does, but he was also loyal and protective to a fault. He was cautious and guarded unlike what others expect from him and with that, Minako knew that he always had the right intentions at heart. 

      However, it didn't mean she was able to put up with his complaints as easily. On the contrary, Minako still needed to work out how to tune out her friend and his rants about how some people are sketchy and his reasonings for why he thinks so. Never did she think she'd meet someone who talked as much as Kyoga did. Still, it wasn't as lonely as it used to be. Sometimes Tanaka would text her even on the days where there was no school or practice and see if she was at least alive.

      She's not as alone as she used to be. The hours Minako used to spend over practice and training were now filled by the rambunctious boys that never failed to surprise her. Months filled with nothing but managing this club and rehabilitation made her realize just how lonely she was. Minako never blamed skating for her lack of a social life nor will she ever regret all the time spent at the rink. But she couldn't lie and say that she didn't want a life like Kyoga's where being with friends is a daily occurrence and her biggest worry are her grades rather than perfecting a jump.

      To have this sense of camaraderie was what she craved after living in a world where it's every person for themselves. Minako thought she'd be okay with living so competitively, where everything in life is nothing short of competition to strive to be the best. But even the most formidable allies can have a knife hiding behind their back, waiting for the right moment when you lower your walls.

      Minako couldn't blame Tanaka for being so wary, she'd do the same if she was in his place. Not to mention, there was no denying that the two new first-years joining them stood out compared to the rest of them. 

      "Don't you think something's wrong with those two first-years?" Tanaka asked Minako as the two finished cleaning the floor. He scowled heavily, but knowing her friend, he was probably more upset at how tall Tsukishima is

      "No, but I think there's something severely wrong with you for getting so worked up over two first-years," snorted Minako as she dusted her hands. She pulled a face at the sight of dust that puffed into the air before she waved it away. "Let's be honest, you're a little worried about the game this Saturday now that you've seen who you're up against."

      "Shut up! That's not true!" Tanaka sputtered back before following Minako out of the storage room. "Can you be supportive for once? Take my side, that's all I'm asking!"

      Kyoga laughed at their usual bickering as he and Suga finished cleaning up all the leftover balls from practice. The two stared at them knowingly, amusement twinkling in their eyes. "What? Still not used to it, Tanaka?"

      "Used to your devil sister? Never," grumbled Tanaka as he jogged over to where Narita was to help him cart the balls back in the storage room. "Would it kill her to be a supportive friend for once?"

      Minako smirked before she crossed her arms across her chest. "Where's the fun in doing that? I like it when you get all bothered because of me."

      Tanaka pulled a face as he mocked Minako and her words. "I can see why your only friends at this school are us. If I was a girl I'd be terrified of you."

      "You already are," Kinoshita joked causing Narita and Ennoshita to laugh in response. They only stopped their teasing when Minako glared in return in which Kinoshita raised his hands in defense. "He's not wrong though. Not saying that having you around isn't great, but maybe having some girl friends will suit you better."

      "Minako probably thinks she's too good to have any girl friends," Narita added jokingly.

      "Bold for you all to assume that we're even friends," Minako shot back sassily as she motioned between the boys and herself. She crossed her arms across her chest haughtily before raising a pointed eyebrow. "Don't forget who helped you guys study for your English final. And I don't think I'm 'too good' I just don't feel the need to surround myself with others. I have no choice but to be around you guys."

      "Ouch."

      "Be nice," Suga told the bickering second-years with an amused smile on his face. "Tanaka you didn't complain about her being around when she helped you wash your uniforms last time."

      Kyoga wrapped his arm around his sister's shoulder before ruffling her hair and ignoring her complaints of him to stop. "They're not wrong, Miko-chan. You should branch out and make some friends, you know? It wouldn't hurt you to try."

      Minako made a face before she pushed her brother aside. 

      "No thanks," she huffed under her breath as she fixed her hair. She settled her hands on her hips before she faced Tanaka. "Besides, what are you so worked up about? It's not like you're weak anyways. Just shut them up on the game this Saturday, it's not like you aren't capable of it."

      And as Tanaka stared at her quizzically, the others could only smile in amusement. It was one of the rare moments where they were able to see Minako's true persona. The small bits of time when she lowered the walls that surrounded her as if she was an immortal being, where she opened up for the rest of them. It was the few rare instances where they saw all the good bits of humanity in her eyes that softened at her times of vulnerability and sincerity. Compared to when they first met her it was an obvious contrast from the girl she was before to the one she is now.

      It reminded Kyoga of the days before Minako moved to France, before the leotards and sparkling tutus and glittery makeup, the days when she wasn't known as famous elite skater Manon, but as his little sister. Seeing his little sister bicker with Tanaka and the others reminded him of the times when Minako wouldn't hesitate to fight with their cousins over the crayons and toys or how she wasn't scared to speak her mind at a young age.

      Kyoga is well aware of Minako's wishes to get back into figure skating, especially with her dreams of going to the Grand Prix and Winter Olympics one day. But he can't lie and say that he doesn't wish that this was their permanent reality, that Minako is just a regular high schooler who doesn't live her life as though the weight of the world is on her shoulders, that perfection is something she must constantly strive for.

      For now, all he can do is laugh and silently thank his teammates for helping his sister by lessening her burden and ideals of perfection little by little.

      "You know it'd be a lot easier if you just said that earlier," Tanaka complained. Minako rolled her eyes before she threw another ball in his direction which he caught easily.

      "But that wouldn't be fun," Minako pointed out before smirking at him. "Besides, seeing you angry and mad at the world helps me sleep better at night."

      Before Tanaka could get another word in, all their attention was quickly diverted to the doors of the gym. Standing there was none other than Yori Ajibana, Kyoga's girlfriend, who beamed a bright smile at the volleyball player and waved. Like Kyoga, she also had obligations for a club that left her staying late on some days. Yori was almost seen as the girl next door, the perfect student, and one of the most sought out after girls at their school. Not only was she a top student, but she was also a member of the girls' tennis club. With her pretty brown hair and big doe-like eyes, she was almost the epitome of innocence and beauty like that of a flower.

      However, none of that did anything to prevent Minako from absolutely hating her guts.

      "Kyocchi!" Yori greeted excitedly as she entered the gym. She waved at the other boys, mainly the third years who returned their gesture whereas the second years simply nodded in response due to their alliance with Minako. "Are you guys wrapping up yet?"

      Kyoga smiles at the sight of his girlfriend, oblivious to the way Minako pretended to retch in her mouth. "Almost. We're still cleaning up, but we're almost done."

      The way her brother was so wrapped around Yori's finger, how lovestruck he looked, made Minako really double back and doubt whether or not it was actually her brother. Not to say that Kyoga was a terrible boyfriend — though Minako could think of several reasons for why he shouldn't be allowed to date — she could definitely see why girls would find him attractive: 1.) he's athletic, 2.) he has Eurocentric facial features that drew the attention of others (Minako liked to think that her and her siblings are definitely fetishized at this school), and 3.) he was a goofball who got advice on his love life from shitty American rom-coms.

      However, Yori was definitely not the leading lady to this rom-com.

      "Is it okay if I wait around for you?" Yori asked, one hand holding the handle of her bag and the other tucked innocently behind her back. Minako wanted nothing more than to scoff at the facade she was putting up for her brother.

      "Yeah, of course," Kyoga beamed in response. He quickly began to help mop the rest of the floors causing the other boys to snicker at how whipped their teammate is.

      Minako tried to distract herself from Yori's presence by acting as though the notes Kiyoko had taken were far more interesting. Of course, that didn't deter her brother's girlfriend who almost knew how much she irritated Minako. It took everything for the younger girl to contain herself as Yori walked on over to her, a smile on her face as she looked over Minako's shoulder to get a glimpse of the notes.

      Yori gave a small smile as she hummed in interest. "I could see that you and Shimizu-san are working really hard when it comes to the volleyball club."

      "Yep," Minako replied curtly as she pretended to look over the little footnotes Kiyoko had written about today's practice. "It's all part of the job."

      "You know when Kyocchi told me that you were going to be a manager I wondered if you could do it," giggled Yori. If it wasn't for the slight mocking undertone in her words, Minako might've actually played it off as her joking. "With you having just moved to Japan not too long ago and all that."

      "It's not like it's rocket science," Minako gritted through her teeth, trying her best to not let the fake smile on her face drop.

      "I know, I'm just worried that on top of your manager duties school might be more challenging for you," Yori shrugged, not ignoring the murderous glint in Minako's eyes.

      "Don't worry, I'm doing just fine."

      Yori hummed in acknowledgement, "That's good. I could help you organize your notes next time. Or can I help in any other way?"

      "It's fine Ajibana," Daichi waved off as he reentered the gym after his talk with Takeda sensei. "Kyoga, you can go if you want, there's not much left to do anyway."

      Minako silently thanked Daichi for getting Yori off of her back. Unlike her brother, the rest of the team wasn't oblivious to Minako's feelings towards Yori. Of course, they all had their own individual opinions of the fellow wing spiker's girlfriend, but they at least feigned happiness better than Minako did.

      She mouthed a thank you to Daichi who only nodded in return, shaking his head slightly and giving her a small smile.

      "Awesome!" Kyoga exclaimed as he grabbed his bag off the ground.

      He jogged over to his sister who tried her best to hide her stink eye, but her annoyance dissipated as her brother gave her a quick kiss on the side of her head and ruffled her hair. "Be good and don't annoy Daichi too much okay? And don't give Yua ice cream tonight, I already gave it to her yesterday."

      "Go on your date already. I'm not an idiot and I can take care of myself," Minako huffed as she pushed her brother away.

      Kyoga laughed at his sister's irritation before he walks towards Yori. On his way out of the gym, he patted Daichi on the shoulder as a quiet thanks before he shouts and waves his goodbye to the rest of the team who replied with as much enthusiasm. However, Minako's less than excited goodbye wave went unnoticed by her older brother whose attention was now completely on his girlfriend who seemed to care less about Minako.

      Suga sighed as he walked over to Minako who was muttering curses under her breath. "You know she's not that bad. You should give her a chance."

      "You're biased, you don't have a say in this," Minako scowled.

      "I went to middle school with her, she isn't that bad."

      "Still bad." 

      Suga laughed before he shook his head disapprovingly. Still, he didn't bother to argue with Minako knowing how deep her hatred and irritation with Yori Ajibana laid. Perhaps it was an overprotective sibling thing or maybe it was her clear disinterest in relationships. It didn't take a genius to know how bittersweet Minako is when it came to all things love, after all, she was ruthless when it came to taking the hearts of others — even if it wasn't intentional — and doing what she will with them.

      Although they liked to joke around and act as though Minako's act of breaking hearts is like a game to them all, the vice captain still felt bad whenever he saw the disheartening looks on the suitors who confess their hearts to her. Perhaps it was because he liked to believe in the notion of love or the idea that it's pure. To have someone as angelic looking and picturesque like Minako stomp on love is one that is shocking.

      However, he liked to believe that Minako was capable of love like Kyoga. That her eyes are just as bright and full of life like his friend's when he's in love. 

DAICHI WASN'T QUITE AS COMFORTABLE around Minako Saito like the rest of the team was. Unlike the second years who were on a personal basis with their second manager and Suga who practically teased Minako as if she was his little sister, the captain of the volleyball club was the estranged one out of the group. This wasn't to say that he isn't comfortable around her, but unlike Kyoga, Minako was far more intimidating despite her being younger. Perhaps it was her brunt and harsh nature that rivaled her brother's gentle and goofy persona. Still, he found himself walking on eggshells sometimes when it came to Minako. But Daichi knew that Minako wasn't as scary as he thought, after all, he couldn't miss the instances where she'd smile and laugh at a joke Tanaka tried out before calling him an idiot. 

      Maybe it was the idea that it's one of his closest friend's little sister that he feels the need to tread carefully. From what he's seen, Minako wasn't the type to get emotional easily. For the most part she was always neutral much like Kiyoko — though the two were different when it was only just the two of them — and the most she's reacted to is whenever the ball came a little too close to her or whenever Yori came around. And though he got to see more of Minako's teasing and playful personality, it was only because Kyoga was usually that made his sister warm up. He was rarely alone with Minako, almost scared as if he was crossing some kind of unforbidden line by being with Kyoga's younger sister.

      Even though he wasn't fully comfortable with her being around, Daichi tried his best to make her comfortable every once in awhile. Perhaps he took Kyoga's words on taking care of her a little too seriously than the rest, but ever since Kyoga's accident the captain felt the need to lighten Kyoga's responsibilities.

      And if going on dates with Yori Ajibana makes Kyoga happy then so be it. He doesn't mind walking home Minako — even though they both know she's more than capable of getting home herself — because he knows Kyoga would do it for him and his little brother and sister.

      So if that meant getting through this awkward walk back, then so be it.

      "Thanks," Minako said as she accepted the bottle of lemon black tea from Daichi. She rose from the bench outside of Sakanoshita and swung her bag back onto her shoulder. "We should probably head back before it gets any darker."

      Daichi shook his head, "It's alright. We can stay a little bit longer."

      "Huh — "

      "Sorry, I'm kinda tired," Daichi cut her off. He glanced at her legs before he quickly averted his eyes away to scratch the back of his neck. Clearing his throat, he continued, "Morning practice was rough. I just wanna take a small break before I get back home, you know?"

      The captain of the volleyball club knows how prideful Kyoga is, and if Minako is anything like her brother — and they do have their fair shares of similarities — she's the exact same. Daichi couldn't just point out how he's noticed her slight stagger in her walk or how he caught sight of her bruises when she went to raise her pant leg to tie her shoelaces. And though they probably aren't as painful as they may look, it's better safe than sorry. So if it meant letting Minako believe that he's just tired from all the rigorous practices, then so be it.

      Minako looked at him suspiciously, but agreed nevertheless. She took back her old seat and quickly took a drink from the bottle of tea he bought her. Daichi followed in suit, but left a reasonable sized distance between the two that was probably enough to fit maybe two more people in between them.

      The sugary sweet taste of the tea reminded her that she was no longer in France, that the reality is she's still in Miyagi. The dull ache of her legs weren't bothering her as much and the only thing left as proof of her training were the bruises that decorated her knees and the sides of her legs. But it was a familiar pain she had grown to love, one that she almost sought for because it was the only confirmation that she was reaching the bare minimum of what was needed.

      However, bruises fade and the mark they leave behind will disappear forever, leaving no trace that they were ever there.

      "Kyoga still has scars from the accident," Minako brought up out of nowhere. Daichi was caught off guard and even stopped himself from drinking his energy drink. "He was helping Yua take a bath and she got him wet so he had to take off his shirt and I saw his side. There's this big ugly jagged scar and just seeing it reminded me of that night, you know?"

      Daichi lowered his head and forced himself to swallow the uncomfortable lump in his throat as he recalled that night. "Yeah, I know. I remember you calling me in the middle of the night."

      "I wasn't exactly dignified was I?"

      "It's okay. I would've freaked out too."

      "I thought he would've quit the club. I wanted him to," Minako smiled bitterly, almost ashamed to look at Daichi. "Seeing him in the hospital scared me and just the thought of him getting hurt again because of volleyball and making it worse — I was scared."

      "But he didn't quit." 

      Daichi's not gonna lie, he was terrified of the idea of one of his closest friends leaving even if he knows it's for good reason. His dream has always been to go to Nationals, but with his friends by his side. Still, he couldn't imagine the fear that the Saito's went through during that period of time.

      "No, he didn't," Minako laughed softly before she tucks a lock of hair behind her ear. "But then again, he has a habit of surprising people, doesn't he?"

      "You're lucky you weren't around when he projectile vomited in the gym our first year," Daichi winced as he recalled the incident. The memory of Suga panicking and running to grab a bucket only to slip and fall next to the pile of vomit was still clear in his mind.

      Minako wrinkled her nose in disgust, "Sounds like Kyo."

      "But he's strong," Daichi reminded her before he gave her a gentle smile.

      "I know that," mumbled Minako as she kicked the pebbles by her feet. "It's not like I planned to be a manager you know? Begging Tashiro-san into letting me in the club wasn't exactly what I wanted to do, but I just knew that if I was by Kyo's side I could help him."

      Minako stops herself from continuing, feeling her words falter the more she goes on about what happened. She wasn't one to grovel or beg, that wasn't her at all. She was taught to be modest, that if she wanted something she worked for it rather than beg for it to be given to her. Sure, maybe she didn't need to even beg the former volleyball club captain to let her join them, after all, they only had Kiyoko at the time and even then it was difficult. But Minako wasn't thinking rationally and all those stupid rules flew out the window when she bowed as much as she can, hands clasped in front of her and voice firm as she asked Tashiro-san to let her join.

      It was then that her attention shifted from figure skating to her brother. Perhaps it was the guilt of not being around enough for Kyoga that drove her spontaneous decision. Minako didn't necessarily regret her choice of joining them, it made going to school interesting, but it wasn't exactly in the set plan she had for herself.

      "If it makes you feel any better, I thought you were really cool when you did that." Minako snapped her head back towards Daichi who grinned. "I know school spirit isn't exactly your thing, but it's really cool that you did that for Kyoga."

      "Even though I barely understand how volleyball works?"

      "You know that there aren't that many technicalities, right?" he said jokingly.

      "I don't exactly pay attention," defended Minako before she bit back her smile. "Besides, you and I both know my only job is to help Kiyoko-san in whatever she needs. So I'm kind of the watergirl."

      "Well, I appreciate you for refilling our bottles."

      Minako laughed at how ridiculous the conversation turned, but she was grateful that Daichi lightened the mood. Somehow the tense and awkward atmosphere from the beginning of their walk was now a thing of the past. And the aftertaste of her tea was now only sweeter than before, the air no longer as warm but now a cooling breeze that sent slight goosebumps across her bare legs.

      What separated Daichi from all the other boys at their school was his ability to comfort others, his ability to take matters into his own hands and bear the heavy burden. Maybe it was because he was older — then again he was nothing like Kyoga or Suga — or because he was a captain, but he gave her a breath of fresh air that made her believe that moving on is possible, that even the darkest and saddest moments of life can be beautiful if given a chance.

      "I already know why Kyoga chooses volleyball over everything else. What about you?" asked Minako curiously.

      "The idea of giving up isn't enough for me," Daichi started off slowly, trying to find the right words to explain his flurry of thoughts. "Ever since middle school my goal is to win Nationals and I guess I'm not able to just give up on that."

      "How can you just keep going like this?" Minako inquired.

      It wasn't necessarily a touchy subject, but the rest of the club wasn't oblivious to the fact that they weren't the best team in the prefecture. Which led to the unanswered question as to why Kyoga chose Karasuno out of all the other high schools in the prefecture. Her brother went to a powerhouse middle school, not to mention he was considered a strong player that can rival that of a player from Aobajohsai or maybe even Shiratorizawa. Yet out of all the possible choices he had in front of him, he chose the one that his friends didn't even bat an eye at: Karasuno.

      "Because there hasn't been a reason for us to give up yet," Daichi finalized. He almost laughed at the puzzled expression on her face. "Believe it or not we actually have a good team. If Kageyama and Hinata can get their acts together then I think we have a really good chance."

      "But what if they're a lost cause?" Minako bluntly asked, not trying to even sugarcoat the harsh words that spilled past her lips. "What if they're not what you thought they were? You know like, what if Kageyama isn't as good as he used to be?"

      She knows that's not even remotely true. Kageyama probably got even better since his middle school days. But for Daichi to have such absolute faith in his team is profoundly confusing to Minako. Their team used to be great and she knows this from all the past rants from Kyoga about how Karasuno used to be a powerhouse school thanks to Coach Ukai. However, the current team wasn't something to brag about. They no longer had glory that crested their name, nothing worthy to double glance at. Yet the fact that Daichi thinks there's something worth salvaging, something good enough to help resurrect their good name was . . . surprising.

      "Then we'll work on it," Daichi said easily, as if he didn't even need to think much about her question.

      "And what if Kyoga can't be as good as he used to be?" 

      What if I'm not as good as I used to be? 

      What do I then?

      "It doesn't matter," Daichi shook his head. "Because he's not doing this alone. Volleyball isn't a sport where you play by yourself and Kyoga knows that. Asking for help is normal and it doesn't make you weak to admit that you need it."

      Minako closed her eyes tight, hands gripping the plastic bottle as she tried to resonate with his words. He's right in so many ways. But teamwork has failed Minako before, she tried her hand at it only to be left out in the open and vulnerable when she least expected it.

      His team is different.

      They're different.

      He's different.

      Daichi stared as Minako abruptly stood up, stretching her arms above her head. And as she placed them back to her side, she looked over her shoulder to give him a small smile.

      "Let's go home," proposed Minako. "We should probably head back so you can rest up."

      He doesn't have the heart to tell her that he wants to stay here a little while longer. But Daichi nodded his head and stood up, handing her bag which she graciously accepted.

      And for most of the walk back to Minako's house, the two spent their time sharing snacks Daichi had bought — the red bean buns Minako likes as well as matcha flavored Pocky sticks — and talking about practice. For example, Minako took this as an opportunity to rant to Daichi about how Tanaka often slept in class or how Kyoga was always so loud at night because he was practicing in the backyard right outside her room. Then the conversation switched to Daichi when he was in middle school and when he started playing volleyball.

      It felt like Minako finally got to understand Daichi a bit better. He wasn't the strict captain she had envision in her head. He's kind and not afraid to give anything she says a listen. She could see why the team functions as well as it does and it's thanks to him. He keeps everyone in check and though there are times where practices are tense due to his strictness and slight anger, Minako knows now that it was him doing his best despite not having an actual coach to help them out.

      Maybe she misunderstood him.

      "How are you settling back in so far?" questioned Daichi as he passed the Pocky box back to her.

      She hummed before she took a bite out of the biscuit stick. "Still trying to memorize all the bus routes and streets again. It's been awhile since I've been in Japan for this long."

      "You used to live in France, right?"

      "Yeah, I lived with my grandparents and went to school there," it wasn't a complete lie, "And I only came back for New Years since my parents, Yua, and Kyoga flies to France for Christmas."

      Daichi whistled in awe, "Must be nice. We kinda have this tradition where the team spends time during the holidays. Kyoga was never able to make it, but sometimes he'd call us whenever we were all together just so we can say hi and all that."

      "Christmas here must be beautiful," mused Minako, a wistful smile on her face as she recalled what winter is like in Miyagi. The trees would be strung with fairy lights by the local store owners, the kids would run around and laugh, and bakeries would be filled with orders of cake for the holidays. "The snow in Japan always seemed prettier to me."

      "How so?"

      "I don't know, it just sparkles differently," Minako replied softly. "I don't think I've ever spent Christmas in Miyagi."

      "Maybe we can spend it this year," offered Daichi. Realizing the implication of his words, he felt his ears burn from embarrassment as he quickly averted his eyes away from Minako and her teasing eyes. "You know, so Kyoga can make it to the Christmas party this year before we graduate."

      "That sounds nice," giggled Minako. Wrapping her arms around her body, she reminisced about her home in Lyons. "There's not that much that I miss about France. I guess I'm just so used to the routine I had that it's hard to adjust to life here."

      "You mean from living in a big city to a small town like this?"

      "Well, that, but I don't have a lot of memories of Miyagi," Minako began plainly. Playing with her fingernails she continued, "I don't know . . . Miyagi's different than Lyons, in a good way. Living in a big city is suffocating, you feel like no one really knows you. I definitely don't miss that. And as for friends, well, I barely have any here so there's no one really back home waiting for me other than my grandparents."

      "Tanaka's gonna get mad at you if he heard that," Daichi warned teasingly. "I'm surprised you two get along so well."

      "In my defense, you guys are Kyoga's friends and I somehow got tangled up in all this," defended Minako before she spun around and began to walk backwards. She threw her hands up carelessly before she shrugged, "Then again it's a lot better than eating lunch with just him. You guys aren't too bad."

      "I'll keep that in mind next time another guy hits on you and you're begging for help."

      "You and I both know I could handle it myself."

      "Touché."

DAICHI KNEW HE COULD'VE JUST dropped her off at the park knowing that it was only a short distance from her house. He could've just went the other direction and walked home himself. Although his aching body and slightly fatigued conscience begged for him to do so, he couldn't allow himself to let Minako go just yet. Knowing Kyoga he probably wanted Daichi to walk her back until they were practically in front of her house rather than just ensure that she got to the park. Even though he knew the chances of anything bad happening to her was slim to none thanks to their quiet town, he also didn't want to take the risk knowing Minako's fiery personality that never allows her to back down from confrontation when needed.

      After all, he wouldn't exactly be a good friend if he didn't ensure Minako's safety. The captain couldn't deny the fact that he wanted to spend a little more time with Minako. Even though he knew he didn't have just this day for them to be friends, Daichi also didn't want to waste anymore time. Besides, the future was unknown with this being his last year in high school and her possibly going back to France one day. But that was even more reason to quickly build up this friendship.

      "You know you don't have to walk me right to my door," Minako pointed out. With her hands tucked behind her back she gave him a small smile before she nodded her head as they approached her street. "It wasn't that far away from the park, I would've been okay."

      "I'm pretty sure your brother meant that I'm supposed to walk you straight to your door and make sure you get in and not just dropping you off at the park," Daichi chuckled.

      "My brother also believes that if he sneezes it's because someone's talking about him," Minako retorted before she glanced over at him with a cheeky look in her eye. "But, I appreciate it."

      "It's also because I've been missing Yua," Daichi jokingly lied, watching as Minako rolled her eyes from his remark.

      "Ah yes, everyone's favorite Saito girl," Minako said, her tone of voice light and amused.

      "You think when she's old enough she'll want to be a manager for the volleyball club?"

      "Hmm, I'd like to think Yua is more of the assertive type and would be the type of girl to join the team rather than manage it."

      "Setter or Wing Spiker?"

      ". . . ace?" The uncertain and sheepish expression on Minako's face made him laugh even harder. And while most people would be embarrass by such a reaction, there was a swell of pride in Minako's chest for making the strict, slightly uptight captain laugh.

      Somehow the heavy weight in her chest was lessened, it was no more. From meeting Seina Arashima to the stress of her personal training, the last forty minutes she spent with Daichi somehow made it all go away, made it nothing more than a fleeting thought that no longer occupied her mind. Now the only thing she could think about were silly imaginative scenarios of Yua as a teenager playing volleyball — perhaps not as timid of a player as their ace — or Kyoga ranting at the top of his voice about how someone had to be talking badly about him which explains why he sneezed four times in a row.

      When was the last time she's felt so carefree? Where she didn't have to worry about landing her next jump or worrying about perfecting a routine? When ice skating wasn't a constant thought?

      In a way, Minako felt like she was betraying the sport, like she wasn't working as hard if she was able to have so much fun in the time she could've spent training. But she found herself not caring in the slightest bit and that didn't unnerve her at all.

      "Dai-niichama!" little Yua Saito cried excitedly as she ran from the front door of the Saito household to where the older boy stood.

      Daichi couldn't help the large smile on his face as he caught Yua and picked her up just like she demanded. The captain had to prevent himself from awing at her inability to pronounce 's' sounds and confused 'sama' with 'chama.' 

      He laughed as Yua smiled back excitedly before she pointed at him to Minako, "You came back with Dai-niichama!"

      Minako giggled and nodded as she stretched her arms out for her sister to go into. "Yes, I did! Were you a good girl today for Papa, mon bébé?"

      While Yua was indifferent to the pet name and nodded her little head, Daichi felt his cheeks flush at the sound of Minako speaking another foreign language. And watching Minako interact with Yua brought out a much softer and gentler side to the volleyball manager that he's never seen. Never did he think that a simple walk home would change the course of their friendship and the way he saw Minako.

      She wasn't as harsh or cold like she is when she's at school. She's free and playful in the dumbest ways, she laughs at the most childish things, and she has a knack for listening to whatever it is you have to say.

      Maybe he didn't know her as well as he used to think, but one thing's for certain, Minako Saito wasn't just his friend's sister, she's his friend too now.

      "Yua-chan," Ayame Saito called out as she stepped forth. With a slightly tired look on her face and in her business attire, she stood with her hands placed on her hips and a small frown. Her pantsuit and tight bun made her look sophisticated and the stern expression reminded Daichi of Minako with their sharp features. "You don't just run out because you see Daichi-san and your sister. Wait for me next time, okay?"

      "Yes, mommy," Yua whispered before she shamefully lowered her head.

      Ayame sighed, but couldn't help the smile on her face at her youngest's adorable act. She turned to Daichi and gave him a warm smile before he bowed politely at her. "Hi, Daichi. Thank you for walking Mina-chan home. I'm sorry for wasting your time."

      "No, it's nothing," assured Daichi as Yua squirmed in his arms to get into Minako's reach. "I don't mind it, really."

      "I'll be sure to knock some sense into Kyoga next time on how Minako is perfectly capable of walking home." Minako couldn't help but blush out of embarrassment from both her brother's overreaction and her mother's ability to make her feel like an incompetent child. "Make sure you tell your mom I said hi and make sure you stay over for dinner next time!"

      "Thank you, I'll be sure to keep that in mind," Daichi said appreciatively, a warm smile breaching his face. He bent down to match Yua's height and offered his hand out for a high-five. "See you next time, Yua-chan. Next time I'll bring you some treats, okay?"

      "Okay! I see you next time, you promise?" Yua asked before innocently sticking out her tiny pinkie for him to loop. Daichi nodded before he looped his pinkie around hers and give a small squeeze.

      "Minako, make sure you thank Daichi-san, okay?" Ayame told her oldest daughter before she motioned for Yua to go back inside the house. Right before she left, she gave Daichi one last wave goodbye before the two went back in the warm and dimly lit house, the sight of warm matcha green walls gone with the door slightly ajar.

      Awkwardness stirred between the two, their gaze no longer focused on each other and on their shoes instead. Neither of them knew what to say or how to say goodbye even though they've done this multiple times before. This time felt different in a way they couldn't explain. Perhaps it was because they both felt it: the beginning of a friendship was something they thought they'd already reached, but somehow through bottles of ice tea and artificially sweet treats, a new birth came.

      "Thank you for — "

      "You know — "

      Both stared at one another, flustered with interrupting the other and their seemingly terrible timing.

      "You go first," Daichi offered gently, his eyes unable to leave hers as she fidgeted under his watch.

      Minako nodded her head slowly before she shuffled her feet uncomfortably. "Thank you," she said once she finally lifted her head to meet his gaze. "I know it must've been weird taking care of your friend's kid sister, but . . . I really appreciate it. I had a lot of fun too."

      "Me too," Daichi agreed, his voice in a volume much lower than what she was used to. It wasn't as loud and as sure like during practices, but it was quiet enough that only her ears heard it, something that felt more personal. "I had a lot of fun too. And just so you know, I don't think of you just as Kyoga's sister. You're our manager . . . a friend."

      Feeling the heat drift to her head, Minako quickly lowered her head once more, thankful for her hair that shielded her reddened cheeks from his view. She motioned to her house and began to walk backwards, "I should probably go . . ."

      "Yeah . . ."

      "I'll see you — "

      "Tomorrow. I'll see you tomorrow."

      "Yeah. Yeah, sounds good."

      "Perfect."

A/N;

After what feels like forever, I finally updated! I was hit with writer's block which made it difficult to write and I found myself frustrated with this chapter and I can't really explain why.

But thank you for all who have supported me and this book and I promise I will try my best to push out sufficient chapters sooner and faster! Big thank you to Nihaarika for helping me so much and motivating me to get this done, this chapter is for her!

With everything going on in the world, I wanted to bring some joy or some positivity to my followers and to the readers of this book. I hope I can bring you some peace of mind and some good energy even if it's just for awhile. Please don't hesitate to reach out to me if there's something on your mind, I understand how difficult of a time this is for a lot of people and I want you to know that I'm here for you.

Below are links that I hope you can check out! I will link them in the comments as well.

https://savetheuighurs.carrd.co/

https://blacklivesmatters.carrd.co/

https://indigenousblacklivesmatter.carrd.co/

Much Love Guys.

( written: july 21, 2020 )
( published: july 21, 2020 )