A surge of anticipation and newfound energy coursed through (y/n)'s body as she gingerly hobbled around her small hospital room, the sterile scent lingering in the air. The moment she had eagerly awaited had finally arrived—the time for her to be discharged. Her heart raced with excitement, fueling her determination to leave the confinements of the hospital behind and embark on the path to recovery.

With each careful hop on her one good foot, (y/n) navigated around the room, ensuring that she had gathered all her belongings. Her eyes darted from the bedside table to the windowsill, making sure she didn't miss anything important. She methodically checked her bag, meticulously arranging her notes and miscellaneous items, the remnants of her hospital stay.

A sense of liberation intertwined with her movements, as if each hop brought her one step closer to reclaiming her freedom. The room that had once served as her sanctuary during her healing process now felt suffocating, urging her to venture out into the world beyond its sterile walls.

Just as (y/n) was poised to make a daring leap past the threshold of her room, the door swung open with a burst of energy, revealing the familiar figure of Yaku, the steadfast libero of Nekoma High. Startled by his sudden entrance, (y/n) froze momentarily, her heart skipping a beat at the sight of his concerned expression.

"(Y/n)-san!" Yaku's voice carried a mix of relief and worry as he hurried toward her. "Where is your ankle brace? You don't have crutches yet! It's far too risky for you to be up and hopping around like this. You could worsen your injury."

Caught off guard by his swift approach, (y/n) found herself effortlessly scooped up into Yaku's strong arms, cradled in a bridal-style carry. She instinctively protested, squirming within his grasp, hoping he would release her and allow her to continue her escape. However, a stern and determined look from Yaku instantly conveyed that he had assumed his role of the team's nurturing caretaker, affectionately known as "Mama Mode." Resigned to her fate, (y/n) relaxed against his chest, finding solace in his unwavering support.

With careful and attentive movements, Yaku gently set (y/n) back onto her bed, ensuring her comfort and safety. His eyes darted around the room, searching for her ankle brace with a sense of urgency. Finally locating it, he returned to her side, his hands deftly securing the brace around her injured ankle, providing the stability and protection she needed. Every touch from Yaku exuded a mixture of expertise and tenderness, easing (y/n)'s discomfort and instilling a sense of trust.

Once her ankle was properly attended to, Yaku's nimble fingers moved with precision as he skillfully changed the bandages on her forehead and knee, delicately tending to every wound with a meticulous care. Each gentle touch conveyed a unspoken reassurance, letting (y/n) know that she was not alone in her journey toward recovery.

A triumphant smile graced Yaku's lips as he finished the task, the satisfaction of having provided the care she required evident in his eyes. "There!" he declared with a hint of pride. "Now we're going to wait right here until Coach arrives with your crutches."

Letting out a melodramatic groan, (y/n) slouched against Yaku's supportive frame, finding comfort in his presence. She nestled her head against his chest, relishing in the warmth that radiated from him. The rhythmic beating of his heart served as a soothing lullaby, easing the anxieties that had welled up within her. Together, they created a sanctuary within that hospital room—a sanctuary filled with unwavering support and unspoken understanding.

As they settled into their shared embrace, a silence enveloped them, punctuated only by the soft sounds of their breathing. Yet, the silence spoke volumes, a language understood by both of them. It conveyed a sense of gratitude, a bond forged through shared experiences and unwavering camaraderie.

Moments passed, and their embrace remained unbroken. Sensing (y/n)'s unspoken thoughts and the yearning for companionship, Yaku's voice cut through the tranquility, breaking the silence that had settled between them. "You know," he began, his voice gentle yet filled with sincerity, "you've shown incredible strength throughout this entire ordeal. I've admired your resilience and determination. You're truly inspiring, (y/n)-san."

A blush tinged (y/n)'s cheeks, her eyes meeting Yaku's warm gaze. Gratitude swelled within her as his words washed over her, reminding her of the unwavering support she had received from not only Yaku but also all the others. "Thank you, Yaku-senpai," she whispered, her voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I couldn't have made it this far without all of you. Your care and encouragement mean the world to me."

Yaku's grip tightened subtly, his expression reflecting a mix of fondness and pride. "We're all part of one team in a way, (y/n)-san. We'll always be there for each other, through the victories and the challenges. You're not alone in this journey."

The comfortable silence enveloped Yaku and (y/n) like a warm embrace, their unspoken connection speaking volumes of the bond they shared. In the midst of their tranquility, Naoi's mischievous voice broke through, punctuating the moment with his playful curiosity.

"Let me guess," Naoi chimed in, a mischievous glint dancing in his eyes. "You made her sit there so she wouldn't try to hop around?"

A playful smirk tugged at Yaku's lips as he nodded, his eyes sparkling with a hint of mischief. "Yup," he confirmed, relishing in the camaraderie shared between the three of them. It was a moment of lightheartedness, a reminder that even in the face of adversity, they found solace in their shared laughter.

But deep within Yaku's thoughts, he couldn't help but harbor a secret motive. 'No way am I telling the coach that I put her here because I wanted to cuddle with her. That would ruin my image as the voice of reason,' he thought with a silent chuckle. Instead, he focused on helping (y/n) up, ensuring she found her balance with the crutches and that her injured ankle was well supported within the brace.

As (y/n) grew accustomed to the rhythm of her crutches, they embarked on their journey through the labyrinthine hallways of the hospital, their destination set on the beckoning allure of the parking lot. The doctors had recommended she be transported in a wheelchair, conforming to the regulations and precautions, but (y/n) was never one to surrender to limitations easily. She scoffed at the notion, determined to reclaim her independence step by step, albeit with the aid of the crutches. Yaku walked diligently by her side, his eyes a vigilant sentinel, ensuring she navigated the corridors safely, shielding her from potential obstacles.

Meanwhile, Naoi's laughter echoed through the hallways, bringing a lightness to their collective spirit. Unable to contain his amusement, he pulled out his phone and began texting Keishin, sharing the comedic tale that unfolded before his eyes.

Naoi: Seriously, she practically barked at the intern who tried to take her crutches and put her in a wheelchair.

Keishin: Not even surprised. Gramps was exactly the same. They're too proud.

Naoi: Like you're any different.

Keishin: So, do you really think Yaku had her sitting with him to stop her from moving?

Naoi: Yes and no. I mean, he's a teenage boy. Of course, he's gonna seize the opportunity when he sees it. If your gramps was here, these boys would be dead.

Keishin: No kidding. I think it's hilarious; she's so oblivious. Anyway, I'll see you guys when you get back.

With a chuckle, Naoi pocketed his phone, his eyes glimmering with amusement. The text conversation was a testament to the unique dynamic they shared, a blend of teasing banter and unyielding support.

As they reached the parking lot, the Nekoma coach's vehicle stood waiting, its engine humming with anticipation. With a swift motion, he unlocked the doors and tossed (y/n)'s bag into the trunk, creating space for their journey back to the familiarity of their beloved gym. Yaku, ever the caretaker, aided (y/n) into the backseat, ensuring her comfort as he settled in beside her. His arm instinctively found its place around her leg, delicately cradling it on his lap, providing a sense of security.

The ride back was filled with small moments of connection—Yaku's fingers tracing soothing patterns on (y/n)'s leg, the rhythmic hum of the engine, and the occasional playful banter exchanged between the three. Yet, with each pothole encountered along the road, (y/n) couldn't suppress a growl of pain, directed playfully at Naoi for his driving skills. Yaku, however, was quick to provide comfort, his touch gentle as he rubbed her leg, his presence a source of solace amidst the bumps in their path.

In that moment, a triumphant thought crossed Yaku's mind. 'And the others thought Suga and I were too motherly to have a shot with her. Well, look who's being asked to take care of her now, thanks to our caring nature. Hell yes,' he celebrated inwardly. It was a silent victory, a testament to the bond they had formed as teammates and friends, their nurturing instincts shining through when it mattered the most.

As the car continued its journey, their laughter and shared moments resonated, forging an unbreakable thread that bound them together as a volleyball family. And in the depths of (y/n)'s heart, gratitude swelled, filling every crevice, for the unwavering support and love that surrounded her.