Author's Note: I ship these two badly. I searched the entire internet and found little material.. no fanfics, no art, no amv, no anything. So let me vent my frustration out by writing this short drabble. It's the only thing I can do for now, with my work schedule T^T.
By the way, I'm using the word 'kantoku' as substitute for the word 'coach' BUT only in character thought and speech. Since I watch the anime with Japanese dubbing, I'd really prefer the use of the Japanese word for 'coach'. The English term 'coach' just doesn't sound natural when affixed to Kataoka's name.
Disclaimer: I own no shit here. Yea.
The night before the storm was calm. There he was, sitting so calmly - facing the field with an unwavering gaze.
Oota was the first to break the silence. "I knew I'd find you here," he laughed, seemingly pleased with himself.
Rei smiled inwardly. "Kantoku, you should get some rest."She needed to say those words, even though she does not really expect him to agree.
He's always like this.
The two stood, looking at him expectantly.
"What do you think of our chances of winning tomorrow's game? I feel like saying 50-50 is underestimating the opponent." The serious question perfectly matched his monotonous voice. Those that didn't know him well would find his tone dangerous and provoking, yet Rei knew him well; he always preferred an honest answer.
Oota quickly disagrees though - he always has that need to please his higher ups. In this case, he may just want to alleviate the coach's worries.
They went on to discuss each player's strengths and weaknesses, particularly the pitchers. While Kataoka only had trust for his team, Oota's worry spread like wildfire as he pointed out the inconsistency of Seido's pitchers and how it contrasted with the constant remarkable performance of Inashiro's ace pitcher.
As expected of Rei, she spoke what needs to be heard, "Honestly, I think it's 40-60 in their favor."
Hard truths.
She smiled despite herself, and probably because of Oota's downtrodden expression at her statement.
Yet again silence covered the room; the atmosphere shifted, the temperature seemed colder.
The large moon should have shone brightly through the window, yet the darkness inside the small office room seemed to engulf everything.
"The rest will be up to the Goddess of Victory."
The two looked at him with surprise.
"It doesn't matter if it's by luck or if we barely win. Either way is fine." Kataoka raised his head, the light of the moon glinted on his sunglasses.
And when he spoke those willful words, all doubts seemed to dissipate,
"I just want to take them to the nationals."
Their surprise turned to warm smiles.
Rei gazed at his silhouette, silently admiring Kataoka from afar. Like she always does.
Kantoku… Don't worry. For sure, the boys know how you feel.
The room seemed to glow brighter as the moon's light illuminated them.
Thanks for reading, and I'd really appreciate it if you drop a review… At least make me know I'm not alone on the ship~ XD