Chapter: A Day After Celebration – Riku's Moment with Family
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As Riku walked back home after his peaceful morning with Hana, a sense of fulfillment lingered with him—one he rarely allowed himself to feel. The sunlight felt warmer now, not just from the day's warmth but from the support and quiet strength that always surrounded him.
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Family Celebration
As he entered the house, his mother greeted him with a smile. "You're back earlier than I expected. Everything alright?"
Riku nodded, setting down his bag. "Yeah, just spent some time at the park."
"Did you train?" his father asked, looking up from his newspaper.
Riku hesitated, then shrugged. "Not really. I just… needed some space."
His mother frowned slightly, sensing something different. "Space for what, Riku?"
He smiled faintly, walking toward the kitchen where his younger brother, Takumi, was sitting at the table with a manga spread out before him. "I met someone," Riku said simply.
Takumi's head snapped up, excitement filling his eyes. "A girl?!"
Riku chuckled, ruffling his brother's hair. "Yeah, a friend."
His parents exchanged curious glances, but Riku quickly added, "It's nothing serious. Just… someone I've known for a long time."
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A Quiet Evening Together
That evening, after dinner, Riku found himself in the backyard again, this time joined by his father. They sat side by side on a wooden bench, watching the stars begin to twinkle in the dark sky.
"You looked happy this morning," his father said, breaking the silence. "More than usual."
Riku took a deep breath, knowing his father wouldn't press him too hard, but still feeling the need to speak. "I met someone this morning," he finally admitted.
His father turned to look at him, his gaze steady but warm. "Someone special?"
Riku hesitated before nodding. "Yeah… she's been around for a long time. Just never thought I'd see her in a different light."
His father smiled. "Sounds like someone who understands you."
Riku gave a small smile back. "Yeah. She does."
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Family Support and Encouragement
Later that night, as Riku settled into his room, his mother quietly entered, a mug of green tea in hand. She placed it on his desk and sat down beside him, looking at him with gentle concern.
"Riku, I know you don't talk much about things outside of volleyball," she said softly. "But… I'm here if you need someone to talk to. About anything."
He turned to her, grateful but a little embarrassed. "I'm fine, Mom. Really. Just… focused."
His mother smiled, knowing he wouldn't open up easily. "I don't mean to push. I just want you to know that whatever happens, we'll support you. Your father and I— we're always here for you."
Riku nodded, taking a sip from the tea. Her words sank in—comforting, familiar, yet something he didn't let himself dwell on too often.
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Reflecting with Takumi
The next morning, as Riku stepped out to help his mother with some gardening, Takumi came bounding outside, this time holding his old volleyball.
"Hey, Riku!" Takumi called, grinning widely. "Wanna play? I've been practicing!"
Riku smiled and tossed a glance at his mother, who simply nodded, watching them fondly.
"You sure about this?" Riku asked, catching the volleyball.
Takumi shrugged, puffing out his chest. "Come on, show me what you've got!"
The two started to play—brother against brother. Riku moved effortlessly, his control precise, but he kept the game light, ensuring Takumi had fun. His younger brother was quick to catch on, mirroring Riku's movements, laughing as they bumped, set, and spiked.
When Takumi finally managed to score a point on him, he jumped up in celebration, fist pumping the air. "See! I told you I'd get better!"
Riku chuckled, ruffling his brother's hair again. "Looks like you're catching up."
"I'll be stronger than you soon," Takumi declared, laughing.
Riku leaned in slightly, his voice serious for a moment. "You'll be stronger… but you have to do it your own way, okay?"
Takumi nodded earnestly, his eyes shining with determination. "I know. I'll do my best!"
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A Day Full of Quiet Joy
By the time the sun dipped low into the horizon, Riku found himself back in his room, sitting on his bed with his phone in hand. He scrolled through messages—some from his teammates, a few from Hana, and a new one from Suna.
> "So, I saw you out there today. Looks like things are getting interesting."
Riku chuckled, typing back.
> "Mind your own business, Suna."
He set his phone down and stretched, gazing out the window. The day had been simple—no grand celebrations, no endless parties, just quiet moments with his family. And for once, that was enough.
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