Chapter: A Longer Break – Riku's Growing Bond with Teammates and Hana
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A Few Days After the Championship – Expanded Break
After the championship win, the Inarazaki team had a short break before they began preparing for the next tournament. With the energy of victory still fresh, Riku found himself allowing a bit more room to relax—both in terms of practice and spending time with the people around him.
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Morning Practice – A Shift in Dynamic
The usual morning practice sessions had taken on a different tone. The team had tasted victory, but the feeling of accomplishment wasn't about resting—it was about pushing forward, building something greater.
Riku, who usually kept to himself, noticed subtle changes in the way his teammates interacted with one another. Aran's calm leadership, the Miya twins' boisterous energy, and even Suna's sly smirks had a kind of unity now that wasn't there before. They weren't just a team anymore; they were a family.
As they broke for water during practice, Riku found himself walking over toward Aran, who was wiping sweat from his brow.
"You seem different this time around," Riku said, tilting his head.
Aran gave a low chuckle. "We've all changed after what happened. We've learned what we're capable of."
"And you've embraced it," Riku said thoughtfully.
Aran paused for a moment, considering his words. "You've changed too, Riku. You're letting go of some of your burdens, bit by bit."
Riku was taken aback by Aran's observation. He realized how much he had held back, not just in volleyball but in life. And maybe it was time to change that.
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Midday – Text Exchange with Hana
Back at home, Riku's phone buzzed again—another message from Hana. They had been texting frequently during their break, and each message felt a little more connected than before.
> "I'm counting down the days until I see you again."
Riku smiled, typing back.
> "Me too. This week can't go by fast enough."
It was rare for Riku to let himself feel this way, but with Hana, it was easy. She made him feel seen in ways no one else ever had.
> "We should make plans after Nationals… maybe go somewhere together."
Riku's heart skipped a beat. He hadn't thought that far ahead yet. But the idea made him smile.
> "I'd like that."
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Late Afternoon Practice – Suna's Persistence
After another intense practice session, Suna approached again, this time with a more serious expression.
"Listen," Suna began, voice low, "You've been holding back. I can see it."
Riku raised an eyebrow, turning to face his teammate. "What are you talking about?"
Suna chuckled. "You've got something weighing on you. I get it. We're not all just volleyball, though. You should talk about it. Maybe to someone who actually gets it."
Riku hesitated, thinking about Suna's words. Maybe it was easier to keep things bottled up, but Suna had a point. The more he kept to himself, the less he truly connected with his team. And more importantly, the people who cared about him—like Hana.
"You think you're different?" Riku asked.
Suna's grin widened. "Different? Nah. Just more open about what's going on. Besides, you can't carry everything on your own."
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Evening – A Heartfelt Dinner with Family
That night, Riku's family gathered for dinner—something rare now that everyone's schedules had gotten busier. His mother had prepared a simple yet comforting meal, and everyone sat around the table—his father, his younger brother, Takumi, and Riku himself.
"I'm proud of you," his father said suddenly, breaking the silence as they ate.
Riku glanced up, surprised. "For what?"
"For winning the championship. But more than that, for staying true to yourself." His father's words held a warmth that made Riku feel grounded. "You've always been someone who carries a lot, but this team—this family you've found—has helped you grow."
Riku didn't know what to say. He felt a knot in his throat, and he simply nodded, grateful for his father's words.
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A Quiet Moment with Takumi
Later that evening, Riku found his younger brother, Takumi, sitting on the floor in their shared room, his head buried in another manga.
"You've changed too," Takumi said suddenly, without looking up.
Riku blinked, caught off guard. "What do you mean?"
"You're happier now." Takumi finally glanced at him, his expression serious. "You smile more. You're not as serious as you used to be."
Riku smiled faintly. "Yeah… I guess I have. Thanks to you and mom and dad. And the team."
Takumi nodded, looking back at his manga. "Good. Just… don't forget to have fun too, Riku. You deserve it."
Riku's heart felt lighter. Maybe this break was more than just volleyball—it was about rediscovering what truly mattered.
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A Secret Meeting – Riku and Hana
The next morning, Riku's phone buzzed again—this time, a simple message from Hana.
> "We should meet today. Just us."
Riku's heart raced. He knew it was risky—anyone finding out would cause trouble. But he couldn't resist.
> "Where?"
A few moments later, she sent him the address—a small café tucked away on the outskirts of the city. It wasn't far, but far enough to be private.
Riku arrived first, waiting nervously, glancing at the door every few seconds. He hadn't felt this excited in a long time. Finally, she walked in—a mix of American and Japanese elegance, with a calm smile on her face.
"Hana," Riku breathed, standing up.
She approached, taking his hand in hers. "Hi, Riku."
They sat down at a quiet table, ordering coffee and pastries, and for the first time, they talked openly—about volleyball, about their futures, about what they wanted.
"I'm really glad I found you again," Riku said, his voice soft.
Hana smiled, gently squeezing his hand. "Me too."
For the first time in a while, everything felt right—their private connection, their quiet moments, their growing bond.
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