Chapter: A Day After Celebration – Riku's Connection with Teammates and Hana
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Morning After the Championship – Teammates' Support
The next morning, Riku arrived at the Inarazaki gym earlier than usual. The echoes of their championship victory still hung in the air, but the team was already back to training.
Suna leaned against the wall, watching as players trickled in, loosening up with light stretches. When Riku approached, Suna raised an eyebrow, a knowing smirk on his face.
"Well, look who's back from his little celebration," Suna teased.
Riku rolled his eyes but couldn't help the faint smile that tugged at his lips. "What do you want, Suna?"
Suna grinned, folding his arms. "Nothing. Just wondering how your little 'park meeting' went."
Riku sighed, shooting him a sharp look. "It's nothing."
"Sure, sure," Suna replied, clearly unconvinced. "You know, you don't have to keep everything to yourself. We're a team now. You've got more than just volleyball, Riku."
Riku paused, thinking about Suna's words. The team wasn't just about winning games—it was about trust, about understanding each other. And as much as he didn't like to show it, he knew Suna had a point.
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Teammates as Family
As the team warmed up, the other players began to gather around—Atsumu and Osamu joking loudly, Aran sitting quietly, scanning the gym. The Miya twins, as always, were full of energy. Riku exchanged a few nods with them before stepping into practice.
Aran approached quietly, sizing Riku up. "You've grown stronger."
Riku glanced over at Aran, nodding his thanks. "Still got a long way to go."
Aran chuckled, clearly impressed but not one to show his approval too easily. "We'll all get stronger together. That's what makes this team different."
The way Aran spoke—calm, deliberate, yet always ready—reminded Riku why he'd chosen Inarazaki in the first place. They weren't just teammates; they were family.
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Midday – Hana and Riku's Text Exchange
Later in the afternoon, Riku sat alone by the edge of the court during a break, his phone buzzing in his hand. A message popped up—it was Hana again.
> "I've been thinking about you."
Riku smiled to himself, his thumb hovering over the screen before he typed back.
> "Same here. How's your morning going?"
A few minutes passed before she replied.
> "Busy with classes. But it's quieter without you."
Riku's heart softened. He felt grateful—grateful that, amidst the whirlwind of volleyball and life, there was someone who could bring him peace.
> "I miss you already."
Her reply came quickly.
> "I miss you too. Maybe after Nationals, we can spend more time together."
Riku read her message over and over, a small smile forming on his face.
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Late Afternoon Practice – Riku's Willingness to Open Up
The team reconvened for an intense afternoon session. Riku focused hard, determined to push himself further. But even as he blocked and spiked, he felt Suna's gaze lingering on him—intent and knowing.
After practice ended, Suna approached once more, this time more seriously. "Hey," Suna said, clapping Riku on the back. "You should talk to us if something's bothering you. You don't have to carry everything alone."
Riku sighed, feeling Suna's sincerity. Maybe it was time. Maybe he could start letting the team in a little more—not everything, but enough to share the burden.
"Thanks," Riku muttered. "I'll think about it."
Suna gave him a knowing smile. "Take your time. But you've got people here who care."
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Evening – Quiet Time with Hana
As the sun began to set, Riku found himself again alone, but this time his thoughts were lighter. He stared at his phone, reading over his previous messages from Hana. A calm smile crept over his face as he started typing again.
> "Maybe I should tell the team about us. At least Suna knows something already."
Her reply came quickly.
> "It's up to you. But I like keeping it private for now."
Riku couldn't help but feel warm reading her response. It was a rare balance—sharing enough to feel supported, but keeping a part of their lives just for themselves.
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