Chapter: A Quiet Celebration – Riku and Hana
Riku Akiyama wasn't the type to share his personal life easily, even with his closest teammates. Among his peers, he was known for his sharp focus on the court and his reserved nature off it. But there was one person who knew the other side of him—the side that laughed freely, let down his guard, and felt at ease. That person was Hana Walker, his childhood sweetheart.
Hana, a half-Japanese, half-American girl, had been Riku's best friend since they were kids. Their bond had grown deeper over the years, but their relationship remained a secret. Only Rintaro Suna, with his perceptive nature, had pieced it together.
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The Morning After
As Riku sat in his backyard, reflecting on the championship, his phone buzzed. He glanced at the screen and saw a message from Hana.
> "Congratulations, champ. Proud of you. Meet me at our spot tomorrow morning?"
Riku smiled, his heart lightening at the sight of her name.
> "10 AM. Can't wait."
Suna, lounging in the team group chat, noticed Riku's brief smile and smirked to himself. He didn't say anything, though—he'd long decided to keep their secret.
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The Next Morning
Riku left his house early, telling his parents he was going to "train." They didn't question him, knowing his dedication to volleyball. He arrived at a quiet riverside park where he and Hana often met.
Hana was already there, sitting on a bench under a large cherry blossom tree. Her long, wavy chestnut hair caught the morning light, and her hazel eyes sparkled when she saw him. She wore a casual outfit—jeans and a loose white sweater—but she still looked effortlessly stunning.
"Riku!" she called, standing and waving.
He approached her, his expression softening. "Hana. Sorry if I kept you waiting."
She shook her head. "Not at all. I wanted to get here early anyway. You're a national champion now, after all."
Riku chuckled, scratching the back of his neck. "You saw the match?"
"Of course," she said, stepping closer. "You were amazing. That block in the last set was perfect."
Her words warmed him, and he felt a surge of pride knowing she'd been watching.
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A Private Celebration
They walked along the riverbank, catching up on the little things they couldn't share during the tournament. Hana asked him about the team, teasing him about Atsumu and Osamu's antics. Riku, in turn, asked about her studies—Hana was a talented artist and had been working on a portfolio for an upcoming competition.
As they reached a shaded area, Hana pulled out a small box from her bag. "I got you something. A little congratulations gift."
Riku raised an eyebrow, taking the box. Inside was a simple silver bracelet engraved with the words, "Stay grounded."
"You're always so focused on moving forward, but don't forget to appreciate how far you've come," she said, smiling.
Riku stared at the bracelet, feeling a lump in his throat. "Hana, this is… Thank you."
He slipped it on, the cool metal a comforting weight on his wrist.
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Lunch Together
They stopped by a small café near the park, one of their favorite hidden spots. Hana insisted on treating him, saying, "Champions don't pay for their meals."
As they ate, Riku found himself more relaxed than he'd been in weeks. Hana had that effect on him—she reminded him of home, of simplicity, of everything he was fighting for.
When they finished, Hana leaned forward, resting her chin on her hand. "So, what's next for you, Mr. National Champion?"
"Spring Nationals," Riku said, his tone serious. "The team's going to start preparing soon."
Hana nodded, her expression understanding. "I know how much it means to you. Just don't forget to take care of yourself, okay?"
"I won't," he promised.
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The Goodbye
As the sun began to set, they walked back to the park. At the cherry blossom tree, Hana turned to him, her hands in her pockets.
"I'm proud of you, Riku. Not just for winning, but for everything you've done to get here."
He looked at her, his eyes steady. "I couldn't have done it without you."
Hana smiled, her cheeks flushing slightly. "You always say that, but it's all you, Riku. Just don't forget to let me be part of the journey."
"You're not just part of it," he said quietly. "You're the reason I keep going."
Before they parted ways, Riku hesitated, then leaned down and kissed her forehead—a rare public display of affection for someone as private as him.
"See you soon," he said, his voice soft.
"See you soon," Hana replied, watching him walk away with a warm smile.
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