Chapter 126: Salty Breakfast
The break of dawn arrived with an unwelcome haste, ushering in a new day for (y/n) much sooner than she desired. Sunlight filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow upon the room, and as the first rays touched her face, the persistent warmth coaxed her into reluctant consciousness.
Beneath the soft morning light, (y/n) found herself enveloped in a cocoon of warmth and coziness, the remnants of a dream still clinging to her mind like gossamer threads. However, any semblance of peace was abruptly shattered as Kenta, her ever-enthusiastic canine companion, launched an assault on her sleep with a barrage of wet, slobbery kisses. With a half-hearted grumble escaping her lips, (y/n) attempted to shield herself from the onslaught of affection, mumbling protests against the ungodly hour.
"Kenta, can't a girl catch a few more Zs?" she groaned, squinting at her furry friend, who seemed entirely unfazed by her plea for additional rest.
The pup tilted his head, as if contemplating the request, before responding with an enthusiastic bark, clearly convinced that the morning held far more exciting prospects than slumber.
Rolling her eyes in mock exasperation, (y/n) couldn't help but chuckle at the irrepressible energy radiating from her four-legged alarm clock. "Alright, alright. I get it. Let's start the day, but can we do it with a little less saliva next time?"
As if comprehending her words, Kenta wagged his tail vigorously, his eyes gleaming with canine excitement. The room was filled with the sound of their morning banter, a conversation conducted in playful barks and (y/n)'s sleepy protests, setting the tone for the day that lay ahead.
Little did she know that beyond the confines of her cozy haven, a new adventure awaited, one that would unfold with each step taken on the path of the unexpected. And so, reluctantly but with a hint of anticipation, (y/n) began to stir, ready to face the challenges and joys that the day had in store.
A rhythmic knock on the door echoed through the room, shattering the delicate cocoon of tranquility that (y/n) had tried so desperately to cocoon herself in. Kenta, ever the vigilant companion, lifted his head with a curious expression, his ears perking up at the disturbance. (Y/n) shot the pup a bemused look, her gaze betraying a mixture of annoyance and amusement.
"Alright, alright. I'm coming," she muttered to herself, pushing herself off the comfort of her bed. With a swift yawn and a tousle of her disheveled hair, she shuffled towards the door, each step a silent plea for just a few more moments of uninterrupted solitude.
Upon swinging the door open, she was met with the sight of Tsukishima, standing tall and composed in the hallway. The early morning light played on his features, casting a subtle glow that accentuated his signature stoicism. (Y/n) glanced down, realizing she was still clad in her mismatched pajamas, and couldn't help but feel a twinge of embarrassment.
"Tsukishima, it's like, the crack of dawn. What's the rush?" she remarked, stifling a yawn with the back of her hand.
He raised an eyebrow, his usual deadpan expression intact. "The cafeteria's not open all day, you know. If you want to eat something before practice, now's your chance."
She blinked, processing the information in the haze of her morning fog. "Practice? Already? What time is it, even?"
"Early enough that if you don't hurry, all you'll get is the lingering scent of breakfast," he replied dryly.
As (y/n) mentally calculated the remaining seconds of precious sleep slipping away, Kenta darted past her legs, his tail wagging enthusiastically. Tsukishima's gaze softened ever so slightly as he offered a small nod of acknowledgment to the furry companion.
"Kenta seems excited. I assume you've briefed him on the importance of a balanced breakfast," he quipped.
She chuckled, the corners of her lips curling into a half-smile. "Of course, String Bean. We're a well-informed duo."
With a final sigh and a resigned shake of her head, (y/n) closed the door, getting ready to leave the peaceful refuge of her room to face the day's challenges – one hurried breakfast and practice session at a time.
(Y/n) took a moment to survey the chaotic array of clothing strewn across her room. With a determined shake of her head, she ventured towards her suitcase, muttering a half-hearted promise to tidy up later. The urgency of the impending breakfast gnawed at her, providing a swift motivation to change out of her pajamas.
The process was a swift dance of fabric and limbs, accompanied by the symphony of her own grumbling stomach. As the soft shuffle of clothes filled the room, Kenta, the ever-enthusiastic spectator, cocked his head to the side, his tail wagging impatiently. (Y/n) cast a bemused glance at her furry companion.
"Alright, Kenta, I get it. Breakfast is on the agenda," she said, chuckling at the dog's unwavering enthusiasm.
Emerging from her room in more presentable attire, (y/n) was greeted by the sight of Tsukishima, still stationed outside her door. The surprise flickered across her features, momentarily replacing the grogginess with a spark of curiosity.
"You're really serious about this breakfast thing, huh?" she quipped, a teasing smile playing on her lips.
He raised an eyebrow in response, the corners of his mouth twitching with a hint of amusement. "I don't make idle promises. Breakfast is the most important meal of the day, or so they say."
As they began the journey towards the cafeteria, Kenta bounded alongside them, his tail acting as a furry metronome of excitement. The pup, ever the social butterfly, couldn't resist hopping up against Tsukishima's leg, silently pleading for some well-deserved attention.
"I see someone's eager for a morning petting session," (y/n) observed with a playful grin, watching as Kenta nudged against Tsukishima's hand.
He shrugged nonchalantly, but the subtle curve of his lips betrayed a touch of fondness. "He's persistent, I'll give him that."
The trio traversed the corridor, the rhythmic echoes of their footsteps blending with the muted hum of morning activities. The soft glow of sunlight streamed through windows, casting a warm embrace on the floor and creating elongated shadows that danced in tandem with their movements. The air, thick with the promise of camaraderie, enveloped them as (y/n) and Tsukishima engaged in light banter, their words weaving a tapestry of shared moments.
"So, Tsukishima, are you the designated morning alarm for everyone or just me?" (y/n) teased, a mischievous glint in her eyes.
He shot her a sideways glance, a subtle smirk playing on his lips. "Considering the alternatives, you got off easy with a knock on the door."
Kenta, sensing the playful exchange, added his own commentary with a joyful bark, his tail wagging in approval.
As they approached the cafeteria, (y/n) couldn't help but notice Tsukishima's nonchalant demeanor, a stark contrast to the protective undercurrent she sensed. She seized the opportunity to unravel the mystery.
"Seriously, why'd you wait for me?" she inquired, her tone laced with curiosity.
Tsukishima's eyes momentarily flickered, a fleeting vulnerability beneath the facade. "No particular reason. I just happened to be heading in the same direction."
A skeptical eyebrow raised on (y/n)'s part, her gaze locking with his. "You don't strike me as the coincidental type."
He shrugged, feigning nonchalance. "Call it what you want."
Kenta, sensing the tension, nuzzled against Tsukishima's leg, as if urging him to spill the beans. (Y/n) shot a knowing smirk in the canine's direction.
"If you're trying to play it cool, you're failing miserably," she remarked, her playful tone challenging the stoic exterior.
Tsukishima, ever the master of deflection, steered the conversation in a different direction. "Enough about me. What's your plan for today's practice?"
The bustling cafeteria welcomed them with its lively ambiance, a cacophony of clinking cutlery, murmured conversations, and the tempting aroma of breakfast delicacies. (Y/n) found herself drawn to the enticing spread before her, the morning sun casting a warm glow on the array of delectable choices.
As she navigated through the crowded room, the lingering mystery of Tsukishima's morning vigil still tugged at (y/n)'s curiosity. Yet, recognizing the unwritten complexities beneath his guarded demeanor, she opted to let the enigma linger, choosing to focus on the immediate pleasure of a hearty breakfast.
The sight of the cafeteria spread was a feast for the senses, and (y/n) wasted no time in piling her plate with an assortment of breakfast delights. Pancakes, fruits, and a generous serving of scrambled eggs adorned her plate, and with a playful glance at Kenta, she snagged a few extra dog-friendly treats for her loyal companion. Kenta, seated patiently by her side, wagged his tail in appreciation, his eyes never leaving the tantalizing assortment of food.
"Looks like someone's ready to feast," she mused, exchanging a glance with Tsukishima as she added a particularly hefty slice of bacon to her plate.
He responded with a subtle smirk. "You're not holding back, I see."
With their plates laden with breakfast treasures, they ventured toward an unoccupied table. However, Tsukishima's sharp gaze caught the attention of several onlookers, not the least of which were a group of guys whose furtive glances at (y/n) were hard to ignore.
(Y/n) couldn't help but notice the scrutiny and decided to playfully acknowledge it. "Tsukki, do you have a fan club or something?" she teased, nodding in the direction of the intrigued onlookers.
He rolled his eyes, feigning indifference. "They're not—"
Before Tsukishima could complete his sentence, Kindaichi's voice cut through the cafeteria buzz. "Hey, (y/n)-san! Over here! Join us!"
Kenta, forever the social butterfly, bounded over to Kindaichi, tail wagging with infectious enthusiasm. The middle blocker welcomed the canine companion with open arms, and Kenta reciprocated the warmth with a series of enthusiastic puppy kisses. (Y/n) followed suit, a bright smile gracing her face as she took her place at the table, leaving Tsukishima to reluctantly trail behind, a visible scowl etched on his features.
"(Y/n)-san, glad you could join us! Sit here!" Kindaichi gestured to the empty chair beside him, a welcoming smile playing on his lips.
The group settled into a comfortable rhythm, the vibrant chatter of the cafeteria providing a backdrop to their morning gathering. (Y/n) couldn't shake the feeling that this impromptu union held the promise of something more, an unspoken anticipation lingering in the air.
As they engaged in light banter, (y/n) reached beneath the table and produced a sizable piece of watermelon, much to Kenta's delight. The pup accepted the treat with enthusiasm, his tail wagging appreciatively. As he blissfully chewed on his prize, the group delved into discussions that transcended the boundaries of mere acquaintanceship.
Kindaichi, ever the enthusiast, leaned in, his eyes gleaming with eagerness. "(Y/n)-san, have you considered incorporating some agility drills in our training today? It might add a fresh dynamic to our routine."
The proposal sparked a lively discussion about training strategies, with (y/n) and Kindaichi bouncing ideas off each other. Kunimi chimed in with his trademark laid-back wisdom, offering a few suggestions of his own. Meanwhile, Kenta quietly observed, his attention seemingly divided between the conversation and the delightful treat before him.
Tsukishima, unable to completely suppress his curiosity, finally interjected, "Agility drills, seriously? We're not in some circus act."
(Y/n) shot him a teasing grin, "You might be surprised, Tsukki. Agility can make all the difference on the court."
The banter continued, laughter punctuating the exchange as the group forged connections beyond the boundaries of the volleyball court. Little did they know that this seemingly ordinary breakfast gathering would mark the inception of friendships and alliances that would shape the days to come.
The cafeteria's lively atmosphere echoed with the clatter of dishes and the hum of conversation as Koganegawa strolled in, his appearance distinctly different from the standard school uniform. Clad in a training outfit that bore the signs of an imminent practice, he sported an air of determination despite the visible signs of fatigue. His eyes, a mix of gratitude and exhaustion, scanned the room until they settled on (y/n)'s table.
Weariness evident in his voice, Koganegawa expressed his gratitude for the previous night's training session. "(Y/n)-san, thanks again for the practice. It really made a difference," he said, a note of appreciation laced with sincerity.
With a casual wave of her hand, (y/n) dismissed the thanks, "No problem, Koganegawa. We're all here to improve."
As he joined the group, Koganegawa delved into a conversation about his seniors' admiration for (y/n), her skills earning her a reputation akin to a volleyball virtuoso. (Y/n)'s response, a modest chuckle and a shake of her head, only added to the air of camaraderie.
Koganegawa leaned in, eyes wide with curiosity. "But you really told off Futakuchi-senpai and Aone-senpai? That's legendary!"
Grinning mischievously, (y/n) began to recount the incident with a touch of dramatic flair. "Well, they were being a bit too rough on Karasuno's Ace, Asahi-senpai. I had to step in and set things straight."
Amused, Tsukishima chimed in with his characteristic skepticism, "She basically threatened to unleash her wrath on them. It was quite the spectacle."
A mock glare from (y/n) followed, "I had to defend Asahi's honor, String Bean. Respect for our ace is non-negotiable."
The banter continued, with Koganegawa expressing awe at (y/n)'s daring confrontation with his seniors. The conversation naturally flowed into Tsukishima's experiences with insults during Karasuno practices, drawing attention back to the lanky middle blocker.
As Tsukishima recounted his tales, (y/n) rolled her eyes playfully. "You're practically a magnet for snarky remarks. I'm staring to think you enjoy it."
A deadpan look from Tsukishima met her remark. "Maybe I just have a talent for bringing out honesty in people."
Laughter resonated in the air as the group continued to share anecdotes and jests. The camaraderie only deepened, each interaction revealing a layer of the personalities that comprised their unique bond.
With breakfast plates cleared and laughter lingering in the air, the group gathered their belongings, ready to transition from the conviviality of the cafeteria to the rigors of early morning practice. Unbeknownst to them, this seemingly ordinary morning held the promise of forging connections that would extend beyond the confines of the volleyball court.
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