Natsuki said she was glad about not making it in ep 10 and it got me thinking, so here's a little something that will hopefully make you smile.
Natsuki was a little torn about the audition results.
On one hand, a small part of her did want to make it. Taki-sensei brought new life and energy to the band, and Natsuki really felt like she'd be doing something special if she helped them get to nationals. After the mess from the previous year she finally felt like playing again.
On the other hand, the thought of performing with the intent to make it to nationals terrified Natsuki. With only one year of experience, she'd be the weak link of the group. Any small mistake could ruin their chances, and no way did Natsuki want to be the person who crushed her friends' dreams.
So even though she put her heart and soul into preparing for the audition, the strongest emotion pulsing through her during the results announcements was relief. She tried, she really did, but now she didn't have to worry about it anymore.
Kumiko would take her place, and Natsuki couldn't be prouder. She'd been basically forced to spend time with Kumiko since day one and couldn't help grow fond of the oddball. Kumiko was charming in a quirky way, she always had something interesting to say. She was also amazing at euphonium and definitely the better choice for the competition.
After the announcement, Natsuki approached Kumiko to congratulate her, but before she could open her mouth the young teen skittered away.
A glance. It was so brief that Natsuki wondered if it even happened. Kumiko buried her nose into her music, her eyes narrowed and focused. The freshman euphonium player hadn't spoken a word to Natsuki so far that day, not even to apologize for running away yesterday.
The girl seemed a little jittery, and Natsuki wondered if the audition results were bothering her. Sure, Natsuki didn't care much, but it was clear from looking at the trumpet section that everyone had their own crazy levels when it came to caring about band.
Natsuki leaned out the window and let the sun shine hotly into her eyes. Maybe it could pass on some wisdom while it was blinding her. She didn't have a clue how to deal with a potentially upset kouhai.
What would a good senpai do? Natsuki peered over at Kumiko again, who was now humming under her breath and fingering along to the music.
Natsuki saw Kumiko with her two friends in the fast food burger joint once, maybe she could take her there. They could get some food and have a nice talk, really hash everything out.
Natsuki found herself grinning as Kumiko excused herself to go empty her spit valve, now was her chance.
Everything I write has been short lately.