A/N: This is just a little headcannon I have of Haru/Rin, and as to why Rin left for so long, and why he wants to beat Haru so badly.
"I don't think we're right for each other."
The summer before high school, Haru said those words to me.
"Fine. But, one last race." Haru smiled a little.
But then, I lost. Not only the race, but Haru as well.
'I'll get him back one day, I swear.' I thought, tears forming in the corners of my eyes.
That was years ago, and now, here I stand, in the former Iwatobi Swim Club building.
My fingers lightly brushed over the picture.
'No. I don't love him anymore. I'm gonna kick his ass someday, I swear.' My hands clenched as I heard footsteps.
"R-Rin?" Haru's voice was slightly surprised.
"Yo." I said, giving my signature smirk.
I wanted to run over and hug Haru, but that could wait.
Someday, someday soon, I'd beat him.
And then, I'd win his heart again.
But until then, I'll be alone.
New message! From: Nanase Haruka!
I threw my phone across the bed.
Who the hell did Nanase think he was anyway?!
I get if you hate me. But, I miss you, Rin. I'll be by the fountain at midnight if you change your mind. I sighed, checking the time.
11:58.
I quickly jogged to the nearby fountain, seeing Haru standing there.
"You decided to come after all." Haru's tone was sarcastic, but I knew he was sincere.
"I'm not giving up on my vow to beat you, Haru." I shoved my hands in my pockets.
'Because maybe then, I can get you back.'
"Rin." Haru jerked me backwards, his eyes slightly narrowed.
"I... I'm sorry for what I said, okay? Maybe... Maybe we can work something out." Haru sighed, and that was as close to an apology as I was going to get.
"I'm not the same person, Haru. I have a new reason for my goals." I sighed, walking away.
'But the reason is still you.' I thought as I laid down in my bed.
And for the first time since that fateful day, I cried.