Together We Fly

by Nightingale1998

When I first met you I never realized how much you would mean to me. However, we have our own dreams and responsibilities, yet I can't help but fall in love with you. When I'm with you it's as if we're soaring through the sky together. I hope we can last. Yuko is the twin sister of Kageyama, Tobio. She is a prodigy much like her brother in her own right, but can she handle it.

7. Chapter 7: Surprise Surprise

Hey, guys! Spooky season is here so let's celebrate it with a new chapter. This will be a two-part chapter for Yuko's competition. Before I forget, I want to apologize for the timeline. Golden week is one month before the competition, but I didn't realize that until now. Since I'm American (not an excuse for not having the facts straight) I'm trying to learn the times and dates not only for the Anime but Japan's schedule. So, I hope you forgive me if the dates feel rushed, and I hope you still enjoy the story. I'll do better in the future.

By the way, sorry for the late update! I had Covid and needed to take some extra time away. Anyway, I don't own Haikyuu, only my Oc's.

Speaking in unison

Inner thoughts

POV changes

---

Yuko's POV

Waking up early in the morning to the sound of my alarm blaring in my ear, I rush to get ready and race to school. Finally, today is the day of our first match. The girls and I have been waiting for this day to prove how far we've come as a team. Our first match is against Ogi Nishi High, and if we win we'll move on to face Shirato Girls' High. There are 32 schools competing in this competition. In order to make it to the finals, we need to beat four different teams. There is no doubt in my mind we'll make it far in the competition.

When I arrive at the school, the team and I quickly grab our equipment before climbing onto the bus. The entire ride to the stadium, we go over our strategy and our first opponent's weaknesses. After everything is said and done, I notice we've arrived. The excitement begins to fill me and I can hardly wait any longer.

We file out of the bus and begin our warm-ups in our designated areas. Once we finish, we move on to stretches and drills to keep our bodies warm. Soon enough, we move to our field since the match is about to commence. Thankfully, unlike previous matches, none of the girls allow their nervousness to overwhelm them. Instead, each one of us is focused on the goal in front of us. No pun intended.

"Yuko, don't forget to take off your sweats," Rio sempai states as she slips on her goalie shirt and gloves. "We can't have our striker looking a fool out on the field."

"I'm on it," I reply as I take off my sweats. Underneath my sweatsuit; is my uniform, which is white with orange borders. I pull my bangs back and tie my hair into a tight braid. Suddenly, Jojima-san taps my shoulder to get my attention. Turning to my sempai, I raise an eyebrow at her in silent inquiry.

"You brought quite the entourage, didn't you, Saki?"

"Eh? What are you talking about?"

Pointing to something behind me, I follow her finger to set my eyes on the stands behind us. About half of Karasuno's Volleyball team is here as well as Aoba Johsai. Although both teams are mean mugging each other, it still warms my heart to see them. Some of the guys even made a poster with my name on it to cheer me on.

"How much time do we have until we start?"

"Well," Jojima quietly whispers to me. "They still haven't called the captains, so I say about five minutes."

"Sounds good; I'll be right back."

"Hurry!"

Making my way to the stands, I take note of who came to my game. All of the third years from Karasuno, with Tanaka, Nishinoya, Hinata, and Tobio are here. I also spot a short red-head child staring at me with large brown eyes. She must be Hinata's sister, Natsu. On Aboa Johsai's half, I see my usual two trouble makers with the rest of the starting line. Kunimi is there too, but I try not to let anyone see my discomfort.

"Hey guys," I yell up to the entire group. "I can't believe you all came to watch me play!"

"Why would I miss my favorite twin playing?" Oikawa yells back to me before anyone can speak, sticking a tongue out to my brother. Iwazumi smacks the back of the brunette's head, causing Oikawa to bite his tongue. "OW!"

"We're just glad we could make it!"

"Thanks, Iwa-chan," I smile at the third year before turning my attention to Karasuno. "Hey, guys!"

As Karasuno yells out hello's and encouraging comments, I notice the little red-head staring at me with a peculiar look.

"Hello, you must be Natsu. Your brother has told me about you."

"Really?" She questions with a sparkle in her eyes. "He told me a lot about you too! You're just as pretty as he said you'd be!"

"...What?" I asked as Hinata tried to hush his sister. A scarlet blush covers his face as he fights the child. "Um…?"

"Onii-chan?! You do talk about her a ton at home! You said she's a great soccer player and how pretty she is! There's even a- mhf!"

"Natsu, shut up!"

As the bystanders laugh at the two's antics, I get called back by my coach. "Listen, I got to go, but I'll catch up with you guys later."

"Good luck, Ne-chan."

"Thanks, Tobio!"

Hinata's POV

As Yuko makes her way to her team, I feel a hard smack at the back of my head. Instantly I turn to Kageyama, who stares at me with a dark look in his eyes. I've never seen him so serious before.

"Oi, idiot, what is this regarding you talking about my sister?"

I hesitate with my reply when I remember one of my first encounters with Yuko. She said she didn't want to get close to anyone on the Volleyball team since Kageyama is one of our players. Then with what happened between her and that boy from Aoba Johsai, it's easy to guess why Kageyama is mad right now. He doesn't want anyone getting too close to, Yuko; so the past doesn't repeat itself.

"I, um-" I can't find a decent response, and my tongue feels like lead. "The thing is-"

"Don't hit my Onii-chan!" Natsu yells as she kicks Kageyama in the shin. "He was just complimenting her, you big dummy!"

"Natsu!"

Kageyama yells in pain as I rush to take hold of my sister. Looking around, I'm thankful that the only ones who noticed are those directly around us. I'm not sure how Yuko would have reacted if she saw that but I don't think she'll be too happy about seeing Kageyama hurt.

"Bahaha, the shrimp's sister is great!" the great king laughs as I place Natsu behind me. The rest of his team snickers along with him, and so does ours. "Good job kicking him, chibi-chibi!"

"Eh?!" Kageyama glares at his former team captain.

Before the argument can get heated, Tanaka bumps both Kageyama and I on the shoulders. Then he directs his attention to Natsu. "Nat-chan, please don't get mad at Kageyama. He has a good reason for being mad. Anyone with a sister would, including your brother."

"Really?"

"Really," he smiles, taking my sister and leading her a few steps away. "Kageyama just wants to protect, Yuko. All brothers are protective of their sisters. Isn't Shoyo protective of you."

"Yes."

"Then maybe you should say sorry to Kageyama. I mean he does have a point. I wouldn't like it if any of my teammates were looking at my sister. I would want an explanation from them."

"Hmph," Oikawa sounds from his place, interrupting the conversation. "Yuko doesn't need Tobio-chan getting in her business. I have a sister as well and let me tell you; there isn't a thing I can offer her that she can't do herself. Plus, chibi-chan didn't do anything wrong. He complimented Yuko, and chibi-chibi repeated what he said. Complimenting doesn't mean marriage."

"No, but it does lead to relationships," Kageyama growls, glaring at the boy from last time before redirecting his attention to us. "Yuko is no longer allowed to date anyone on my team. So if you want to watch the game or continue your friendship, then I suggest halting any wrong thoughts you may have."

"That's not up to you to decide," Oikawa points out to everyone. "You can't tell people how to feel about each other, and one day Tobio-chan, you're going to find out what happens to people who ask too much from those around them. I thought you learned already, but apparently, you haven't made any progress."

No one said anything else on the matter, but the tension didn't dissipate even as our soccer team made their way onto the field. Still, I'm glad we stopped arguing. It's Yuko's big day, and I don't want to ruin it for her. I didn't go through all the trouble of convincing her to be my friend just to lose her now.

Watching Karasuno's soccer team get into position, I see we have the ball instead of Ogi Nishi High. Once the whistle blows, our side pounces on the ball. Our three forwards send it back and forth, making sure the green side doesn't steal the ball, and when the moment is right, Yuko takes the ball to score a point.

"GO, YUKO!" I scream from the top of my lungs. "YOU'RE DOING AWESOME!"

I feel a tug on my arm, and I look down at Natsu. She has a big smile on her face, and her eyes have grown more prominent than before. "Onii-chan, she's faster than you."

"Yup!" I said, beaming with pride. "She's like a bolt of lightning when she moves. If you keep watching, you'll see a bunch of cool stuff!"

True to my word, during the next phase of the game, Yuko-chan manages to steal the ball from the opposing team. It's a back and forth battle between our forwards and their defense. At one point, one of our forwards tries to shoot at the goal, but a defender sends it back across the field. Before the ball can reach the mid-point line, Yuko stops the ball with a bicycle kick, sending it into the goal for our side. The crowd goes crazy as Yuko jogs back to her place with the rest of the team. As the game continues, it's obvious who will win. The other team isn't bad by any means; they manage to score five points during the game. Nevertheless, we scored eleven points by the end of the second half of the match. When the two teams gave their respects to one another, I felt bad for Ogi Nishi High. It wasn't that long ago I lost to Kageyama, and now they've lost to their version of Kageyama.

Although, this one is nicer, and prettier, and smarter. Yuko is better all around. Honestly-

"Oi, Hinata-boke, let's go to the concession stands to grab some food."

"Huh, oh right, sure," I said, getting startled out of my thoughts. "Natsu, let's grab something to eat."

"Are you going to buy me food?" Natsu asked, trying to trick me by pouting her lips as she takes hold of my hand.

"Not a chance! You have your allowance." I replied as we walk with everyone to the concession stands. "And quit it with your pouting!"

"That's not fair!"

"I don't care! You're just trying to waste all of my money so you can save yours."

"...What's your point?"

"ARGH!"

The three of us follow after our sempai's, I feel someone staring at me, but every time I turn to look, no one is there. Even as we eat together, the entire group laughing at jokes Tanaka and Noya are saying, I feel the stares of another. I'm so focused on the feeling that I fail to notice someone creeping up behind us.

"Boo!"

I let out a shriek, falling out of my seat and onto the ground. The entire group laughs as a hand comes into view to help me up. I notice Yuko above me, giggling at the sight of my fallen state.

"Yuko!"

"Sorry, Hinata-kun," Yuko laughs, grabbing my arm and pulling me up to my feet. "I was trying to scare my brother, but I got you instead."

"It's okay," I say hesitantly. Yuko probably thinks I'm a wimp now!

"Oi, dummy! Why are you here?" Kageyama calls to Yuko as the two of us sit down. Yuko sits in between Kageyama and I, which must be a blessing from Kami-Sama.

"Are you sure you want to call me a dummy? Last I checked, Tobio, you're the one who can't score higher than a 20."

"Shut up!"

"Make me!" Yuko grins, but before the twins can start anything, Shimizu-sempai snaps her fingers at the two.

"Don't you two dare start a scene here."

"Sorry..."

"Man, that's weird," Suga-sempai says from beside Daichi. "How can you two talk at the same time?"

The twins look at each other as if they're having a conversation telepathically. After a moment passes, they turn to Suga-sempai. "Don't know. It just happens."

As the conversation continues between the group, my sister pats my arm, calling my attention. "What is it, Natsu?"

"I gotta go to the bathroom."

"Huh, alright, hold on," I warn her looking around. I can't see one, so my only choice is to ask Yuko if she's seen one. "Yuko-chan, do you know where the bathroom is?"

"The bathroom? Did you get nervous or something?"

"What? No, of course not. Why would you say that?"

"Huh? My brother told me how you get the runs every time your nervous."

"WHAT?!"

The entire group stops the conversation to stare at us, and my face heats up from embarrassment. I try to hide my face behind my hands, but it doesn't work. "That isn't true, Yuko-chan!"

"Really," the striker asked, turning to her brother. "Is it someone else on the team that has the runs whenever they're nervous, Tobio?"

"Just Hinata-"

"Shut up, Bakayama!"

"EH, HINATA-BOKE!-"

"Onii-chan!"

"Hold on, Natsu!"

"But it's an emergency!"

"What is?" Yuko cuts in, slamming a hand on mine and Kageyama's mouth. "What's going on, sweetie."

"I gotta go to the potty!"

"OH! Follow me!"

Yuko leads my sister and I to the restrooms before any accidents happen. This particular bathroom stall is a family one, meant for moms and babies, so only Natsu is inside. Outside, Yuko and I are standing by a fence, waiting for my sister to get out.

"Your sister, how old is she?" Yuko asked randomly, throwing me off guard. Still, it's better than staying silent as we wait for my sister to exit. "I only ask since her height is throwing me off."

"What's wrong with her height?"

"Well, she's tiny, but so are you. If I recall correctly, you're older than me and the rest of the first years; however, you're the shortest.

"Oh, right," I scratch my head awkwardly. "Natsu is nine years old. She'll turn ten a couple of months after I turn 16. September 15th."

"Speaking of birthdays, yours is tomorrow, right?"

"Is it?"

"Well, today is the 20th, so I believe so."

"Huh, I kind of forgot about it since I've been busy with practice."

"Are you not into birthdays?"

"I like celebrating them, but I'm just used to skipping mine."

"Why? If you don't mind me asking."

"Well," I hesitate for a moment before deciding to tell Yuko the truth. "We don't have a lot of money, so I usually don't ask for much. It's the reason I ride a bike to school and not a bus. It's the reason I have a flip phone and not a touch screen like the rest of you. What's the point in having a birthday party if I make money tight."

"Hinata-kun, I-"

Just as Yuko is about to speak, Natsu comes out of the bathroom and runs to us. "Done!"

"Alright, you two head back; I gotta go now," I tell them, pointing to the bathroom. "I'll be out in a second."

"I hope I didn't make you nervous, Hinata-kun."

"What! No!" I start screaming, waving my hands around. "About what I said-"

"Calm down, I was just joking," Yuko laughs. "We'll be waiting for you with the others, so don't take too long."

"I won't," I promise, entering the men's room.

Once I finish my business, I leave the bathroom feeling accomplished, and not because I just pooped. So far, the day has gone well, with only a few minor bumps. If I keep this up, I may be able to talk to Yuko before she heads back to the field. Speaking of which, it seems as though Natsu likes her. I hope so because I can't date someone Natsu doesn't like, no matter how much I care for Yuko.

You better like her, Nat-chan-

Out of nowhere, someone bumps into me, causing me to stumble to the ground. I'm annoyed, considering this is the second time I've fallen today, and my mood worsens when I see Yuko's ex standing over me. He's looking down at me, and it fires me up.

"You're that shrimp from Karasuno, right?" he says, tilting his chin up. "The one that can jump high."

"Yeah," I said, standing to my feet, trying to push out my chest. "You trying to pick a fight!"

PLEASE SAY NO AND APOLOGIZE!

"What are you doing here?" He questions, taking a step closer to me. The question, however, throws me off since we're only a few steps from the restrooms.

"I went to the potty...?"

I notice a look of irritation cross his features, but I don't understand why. I didn't do anything wrong, and I answered his question. He's the one who bumped into me. Shouldn't I be the angry one?

"Listen, chibi-chan," he states in a lower voice which irks me even further. "I don't know what you think you're doing, but it's in your best interest to stay away from Yuko."

"What! You can't tell me not to talk to Yuko."

"You don't have to listen to me, but I saw the way her brother started treating you when your younger sister commented on how pretty Yuko is. Kageyama is protective of Yuko, and the moment he believes something is going on between you two, well, you can kiss any chances you have on and off the court goodbye. Kageyama will act colder than usual, and the friendship you believe you might have built will be gone. It doesn't help that he's a setter. He'll make sure your chances of playing lower. Not to mention this will put a strain on any type of relationship you have with Yuko. One day, she'll do to you what she did to me and leave, claiming it's no longer worth it. I think we can both agree that isn't an outcome you'd want."

I stand there staring at the Aoba Johsai player as he finishes explaining what he meant. I thought he would threaten me, or worse, but I got it all wrong. Is it a trick? I voice my thoughts a second later to hear an explanation.

"Trick? No, it's not a trick. I don't know what kind of view you have of me in your head, and quite frankly, I don't blame you. We didn't exactly meet under the best circumstances, so it's understandable."

"But why would you go out of your way to tell me all of this?"

He pauses for a moment, and he shifts from one foot to another. Quietly, without looking me in the eye, he speaks. "I don't want Yuko to be unhappy any longer..."

"What do you mean by that?"

"You'll see if she lets you," he turns around and begins to walk in the direction of the soccer field. "By the way, sorry I bumped into you."

I stand there for a moment longer before deciding to return to my team. The entire walk back to the stands, I keep thinking about what that guy told me. I remain quiet even as the group tells me about Yuko leaving for warm-ups before the next game. Natsu is beside Shimizu-sempai, so I decide to stand on the other side of the two instead of Kageyama.

I know that guy meant every word he said, but I can't seem to wrap my mind around it. Staying away from Yuko? That's impossible.

Yuko's POV

Hours later, on our way back to the school, the entire team is laughing and cheering over our victory. I can't help but laugh along with the team. Not only did we win both games today, but Aoba Johsai lost during the first round against Date Tech.

Okay, so maybe I'm acting petty, but I deserve it, I think to myself. In your face Wada-chan! Oikawa wasn't even impressed by the ball you took to the face!

"Alright, guys," Coach Noguchi called to the group of teens. "When we get to the school, it's straight to the meeting. After that, you're free to head home. Don't even try staying out late because if I find out, I'll kick you in the face. I already fed the entire lot of you, so go home and get to sleep."

"Coach!" Mazaki yells, raising her hand in the air.

"Mazaki-chan!"

"Will it be with a sneaker, or a slipper when you kick us?"

Does it matter?

"A cleat, Mazaki-chan!"

"Coach," the girl calls out again with her arm still in the air. "I don't think you're allowed to kick us!"

Mazaki-san, why are you talking! I don't want to do laps when we get to the school!

"I don't care," Coach bellows, throwing an empty water bottle at the poor girl. "Now shut up; we're arriving at the school."

We begin to settle down as Hara Sensei pulls into the parking lot. The strange thing is I see the vice principal waiting for us when we return. A lot of the girls notice and start whispering about how he might congratulate us on our victory. I doubt it since it was only the first day of the soccer tournament. Maybe he needs to talk to Hara Sensei about something.

Speaking of the older woman, she halts us from leaving to converse with the VP outside in silence. Only a minute passes before she strides back inside the bus with a grim face.

"Ladies, off the bus and to the meeting," Hara Sensei demands. The look on her face means business, so we follow orders without questioning the situation. To the side, I notice Hara Sensei pulling Coach Noguchi over to whisper something in her ear. From the looks of it, the news must be bad to get Coach Noguchi to make a face.

Walking to the clubroom with my friends, I feel a hand rest on my shoulder to stop my movement. The action was quiet, so no one noticed I hadn't followed them inside the room. Looking to the hand that stopped me, I see Hara Sensei holding me back. Coach Noguchi nods in my direction before passing us to join the team.

"I don't understand," I mutter to my Sensei. "What's going on?"

The hand holding me squeezes my shoulder once before speaking, "Follow me, Kageyama."

Silently, the two of us meet up with the principal, who escorts us to his office. When we arrive, the vice principal opens the door to reveal a fuming Yagi-san. My heart sinks to my stomach, foreboding filling me with dread.

As the adults sit down, I choose to sit next to my Sensei. I even scoot the chair closer to her, not wanting to be anywhere near Yagi-san. Much like my parents, he's a cold and strict persona that I have never been able to relax around. It's apparent why they chose him as their assistant.

"First, I would like to congratulate you on the victory of today's games," The VP states with a waning smile. "Nevertheless, there seems to have been a misunderstanding."

"I'm sorry, but what misunderstanding are you referring to?"

The Karasuno staff looks at each other, but it's Yagi-san who answers me. "You weren't supposed to be at the soccer tournament today, Yuko."

I freeze, not understanding the words spilling from the man's mouth. Thankfully, Hara Sensei calms the man and comes to my aid.

"Just as I thought, Yuko has no idea what you mean. Yagi-san, I understand that it must have been quite a scare to arrive at the home and school of my dear student only to find her missing, but it's clear she didn't know any better. There must have been a miscommunication between the two parties."

"I doubt it," Yagi-san sneers at us. "I left two voice-mails earlier this week to warn her about my arrival. I also emailed the school stating her absence on the 20th of this month."

"Well, as you can see," the Vice Principal says while clearing his throat. "The email I received came on the same day as Hara Sensei's email. The two looked nearly identical, with Hara Sensei's stating the reason behind the absence. I merely thought you were confirming the absence, nothing more. As for the voice-mails, perhaps Yuko can shed some light on the situation.

The entire room turns to focus their attention on me. The only problem is I don't recall any voice-mails being left on my phone, unless...

"Yagi-san, did you call the house phone or my cell phone."

"The house phone, of course! Why would I call a child's cell phone?"

"Okay, so funny story," I awkwardly giggle, rubbing my arm and ignoring the latter comment. "We accidentally broke the house phone, and we have yet to replace it."

"How did you two manage to break it?" Hara Sensei asked, but the VP raised his hand with a scowl on his face.

"Hara Sensei, I'm assuming you haven't met the brother, correct?"

"Correct."

"Then never doubt the impossible with that boy."

I want to laugh since I'm aware the vice-principal must be traumatized about the day he met Tobio. Alternatively, I do my best to stay quiet since I acknowledge I'm not out of the woods yet. Now that everyone understands, I had no idea about the last-minute trip my parents planned I might be able to play in the competition. At least, I hope that's the outcome all of us can accept.

"So, am I free to go?"

Yagi-san lets out a sound of annoyance but agrees nonetheless. However, Hara Sensei stops our movement to sit me back down. She places a hand on my knee as she speaks. "Yuko, you do realize you won't be able to compete for the rest of the tournament, right?"

"What?! No! That can't be true!"

"Yuko-"

"NO! Yagi-san said I would be absent today, but no one mentioned the entire weekend! I have to compete. The entire team is depending on me to help out."

"Missing one measly game will not be the end of the world," Yagi-san interrupts us. "Today, we were supposed to prepare for tomorrow's event. Now, all of our time has been spent on a sport and searching for you. Thank Kami-sama I didn't call the police. Now, it's time to leave, Yuko!"

"No! I never agreed to this."

"Vice Principal," Hara Sensei calls to the toupe man. "Isn't there anything we can do?"

"I'm sorry," he sighs heavily. "But the school cannot go against the parent's wishes. Yuko is no longer allowed to compete for the rest of the tournament."

I feel myself go numb from head to toe as Yagi-san pulls me by the arm. He explains that we are heading straight to Tokyo tonight, and my luggage is waiting for me in the car. Tobio isn't allowed to join me since he would only cause a disturbance. Instead, a note should be waiting for him when he returns home. Still, knowing my brother, any minute now, Tobio will send me a text asking about my whereabouts.

About ten minutes into the ride to Tokyo, I get a ton of messages. However, I ignore them as I tap on my brothers' name. Just as I thought, he's asking me if I'm almost home, meaning he hasn't seen the note. Quickly, I update him on the current events and wait for his response.

Thing 1: Yuko, where are you? I'm coming to get you. Are you with Yagi-san?

Sent 8:30 pm

Thing 2: Yes, and I doubt you'll be able to catch up to the car Tobio.

Sent 8:30 pm

Thing 1: I'll go to the train station and meet you in Tokyo!

Sent 8:32 pm

Thing 2: Tobio, please don't.

Sent 8:33

Thing 1: I can't just let you go to Tokyo! We've been waiting for years to get to the High School tournaments. If you aren't here to compete, the scouts won't pick you for training or the pro leagues.

Sent 8:34 pm

Thing 2: I know, but mother and father won't allow me to compete for the rest of the weekend. Apparently, there's an event I have to attend. Our parents spoke to the school already, so even if I were to jump out of the car right now, the school can't allow me to compete. I'll have to wait for the spring tournament to compete.

Sent 8:35

Thing 1: Yuko, I'm sorry this is happening. Is there anything I can do?

Sent 8:37 pm

Thing 2: Do you mind telling everyone I'm no longer competing? I know my team is already aware of the news since they've been blowing up my phone non-stop, but no one else is aware. I don't have the heart to repeat the story any longer.

Sent 8:39 pm

Thing 1: Okay, I'll tell Daichi and Iwaizumi to spread the word. Is there anything else?

Sent 8:40 pm

Thing 2: Do you mind distracting me?

Sent 8:40 pm

There was a moment of silence before another bing sounds. Looking at the text, I start giggling as my brother attempts to humor me with memes. When it comes to memes, my brother and I have two completely different senses of humor. My brother is content with straightforward jokes, while I can go dark-humor. It's always funny noticing the difference between the two of us. Nevertheless, in the end, Tobio is my best friend, not just my twin.

About two hours into the drive to Tokyo, most of the messages have tampered off, leaving my brother and I to speak in peace.

Thing 1: How much longer do you have?

Sent 10:50 pm

Thing 2: Maybe two and a half hours left. It's the weekend, so it's going to take a minute.

Sent 10:50 pm

Thing 1: I thought you said it's going to take two and a half hours.

Sent 10:52 pm

Thing 2: I did.

Sent 10:52 pm

Thing 1: Then why did you say it's going to take a minute?

Sent 10:52 pm

Thing 2: You know what I mean.

Sent 10:53 pm

Thing 1: No, I don't. I'm asking because I'm confused.

Sent 10:53 pm

Thing 2: Your entire life is confusion, Tobio.

Sent 10:53 pm

Thing 1: No, it's not. It's pretty straightforward.

Sent 10:53 pm

Thing 2: OMG

Sent 10:54 pm

Thing 1: What?

Sent 10:54 pm

Laughing at my brother's inability to act his age, I forget I'm not alone.

"Quiet back there," Yagi-san yells. "You've done enough for one day."

"I didn't do anything."

"Exactly! Kids these days are so irresponsible."

Rather than argue with the man, I go back to texting my brother until I fall asleep in the car. I remain asleep until we reach the apartment my parents own in Tokyo. Grabbing my things, I leave Yagi-san as soon as he hands me the key I journey to room 207. It's late at night, so I doubt my parents will speak to me at the moment.

Opening the door, I find the apartment dark and empty. Most likely, my parents are asleep since the event is tomorrow. If it were any other day, they would still be at the office until some ungodly hour. The type of dedication they have for this life must be exhausting.

I walk to my designated area in the apartment and leave my belongings on the bed. Thankfully, this room has a bathroom so I can take a shower before going to bed. So, I quickly put my phone to charge before stripping and heading to the bath. I take my sweet time, trying to relax not only my muscles but my tired mind as well.

An hour later, I hop out of the bathtub and dress in my pajamas. I put my belongings in the closet before lying down. I grab my phone and notice the time. Nearly 2 am, and I'm still wide awake. Having nothing else to do, I read through the millions of text messages my friends have sent.

Most of them are confused by the sudden disappearance, while others are upset with my parent's demands. My team, on the other hand, is very supportive and understanding of my situation. Hara Sensei must have explained the details once I left with Yagi-san. Promises of victory in my name are written throughout the texts, but the pit in my stomach merely deepens. I want to be there with them.

However, two messages catch my attention before I can put my phone away. I read the one from Kunimi first. He mentions how sorry he is about my missed opportunity but reminds me about next season's chance. Similar to the others, he offers an ear if I want to talk, but I decline. Kunimi doesn't understand what it means to miss a season. How hard I worked to get to this point only to watch it speed past me. He doesn't care about the future that's escaping me.

I almost threw my phone to the side when I notice the name with the fewest text messages. Hinata Shoyo. I open the text, and to my surprise, it's a couple of paragraphs.

Hinata: Hey, Yuko-chan, I heard the news about what happened. It sucks you can't play during the rest of the tournament. My sister and I were excited to watch you win. She's pretty upset that your parents stole you away last minute. She even tried to convince our mom to go pick you up. To be honest, I'm willing to bike my way to Tokyo to pick you up. Just an FYI :)

I know you must be furious about missing the games, and I know nothing I say will make the frustration disappear, but I'm here for you. Everyone knows if you were here, our soccer team would have an easy victory, so the other schools are lucky you're gone. Still, their luck won't last forever because you'll get your revenge next season.

I know that doesn't mean anything right now since you're losing a chance at playing in this tournament. You worked so hard to get to the starting line, so I understand how mad you are. It's not every day a first year is the starting striker, and to have that taken away is terrible.

I know nothing I say will change how you feel, but I'm here if you need me.

Sent 9:00 pm

I smile at the text, thankful I read it. Out of all the messages I received, it was Hinata's that made me smile. Before going to bed, I wish him a happy birthday and a thank you.

In the morning, I wake up to the sound of knocks on my door. Getting out of bed, I make my way to the door, opening it to reveal my mother on the other side. She looks just as angry as she usually does, and I'm not surprised.

"Breakfast in 10 minutes," my mother informs me. "Get dressed. We have a long day ahead of us."

"Yes, ma'am."

I quickly get dressed and arrive at the kitchen island before my parents. Cereal in hand, I wait for them to speak as I say good morning to the two.

"Yagi-san has informed your mother and I about the events that transpired yesterday. Make sure it doesn't happen again."

"Of course, sir."

"Good, now I'm sure you must be curious about the event we called you down to Tokyo for." Without waiting for an answer, my father continues. "Today, the company is having a gala. It's to promote the contribution we've made with the non-profit organization we partnered with last year. Many of our competitors and allies will be in attendance."

"Of course, your father and I will be in attendance, but Aguni-san, the CEO of the company, is requesting your appearance."

"Why?" I asked before I could stop myself. The look my mother gave me was enough to shut me up.

"...He's impressed by your achievements. Be grateful for the opportunity, Yuko. Your siblings weren't offered these chances due to their failures. If you continue the hard work, you'll make it far in this world."

"Your mother is right. Think of tonight as the first step into your new world."

"Yes, of course," I quietly agree, but the wrenching feeling I have throughout my body won't go away. "Is there anything I need to know before the event tonight?"

"Well, since you're late, you only have 11 hours to memorize this packet," my father tells me, slamming down a manila folder in front of me.

The folder is as thick as my wrist, and the contents are double-sided with side notes attached. Already, I can feel a headache forming at the sheer size of the packets. I'd rather be out in the field today than some stupid gala.

"By the way, Yuko," my mother calls out to me. "I've picked out an outfit for you tonight. At 1:00 pm, a group of stylists will be here to attend us. We need to leave by 6:20 if we want to make it in time, so start studying."

"Yes, ma'am."

After all of us finish breakfast, I return to my room to begin studying. I only take a break to send a good luck text to my team. After that, I put my phone on do not disturb and place it to one side as songs play through the silence. Oddly enough, whenever I'm studying, I play loud music to motivate myself.

As the time gets closer to 1:00, I move to my closet. I want to see the dress I'll be wearing tonight, hoping it's not ghastly. Unsurprisingly, the dress looks hideous thanks to my mother.

When it comes to the way we dress, my mother and I are polar opposites. My mother loves dressing in formal attire with pastel and neutral colors. I hate pastels. Not only do they wash me out due to my light skin color, but the colors irritate me. I much prefer a mix of dark and bright colors. I dress more comfortably, but on the cute side. Depending on how I'm feeling is the amount of effort I'm willing to put in the outfit.

Sadly, the dress I'm looking at is a disaster. It's a mint green dress with a Queen Anne neckline. The bodice has a mix of lace and pearls, and the silhouette is an a-line. The accessories are almost as horrendous as the dress. Scarpin white shoes, pearl earrings, and a ball clutch with a mix of diamonds and pearls. I've never been so disappointed in my life.

So, this is what I'm missing my soccer tournament for? I think to myself. A nasty mint dress and pearls galore?

I nearly smack my forehead until I hear a knock on the front door. I leave my room to answer it, assuming my parents are busy.

Opening the door, I begin greeting the stylist. "Hello...!"

"What? Aren't you going to say hello to your favorite sister?"

"MIWA!" I scream out loud, pushing past the other two stylists to hug my sister. "What are you doing here?!"

Before I can receive my response, our parents rush into the door. "What is the meaning of this?- Miwa, what are you doing here?"

The stylist beside Miwa gains my sister's attention. "I didn't know you were related to them. I just thought you shared the same last name."

"I didn't want to say since I wanted to surprise my sister. I haven't seen her in a while, Ai-san."

"Well, let's get to work," Ai-san mentioned, acknowledging my parents. "Kageyama-san, we're the stylist you requested."

My mother pursed her lips but kept quiet as she led the ladies inside. Sensing the tension in the room, my father decided to leave us while my mother instructed the woman on what she wants.

"I want my hair pulled to the side with a specific clip that I own. My hair should flow down in a cascade. My makeup should be light since my dress is cool aqua. My daughter will have a french twist bun and makeup similar to mine with a mix of white, mint, and highlights."

"Of course, ma'am. Miwa, you can go with your sister, the two of us will go with your mother."

"Don't refer to me as her mother," she snaps at the trio of women. "That child is not mine."

My sister merely rolls her eyes with a smirk as she walks to my room. Once inside, she goes to the vanity and sets up her station, and eagerly awaits me. I giggle as I hop onto my seat while Miwa combs her hands through my hair.

"I still can't believe you're here, Miwa!"

"Me neither," my sister comments. "I almost didn't agree to come when I saw the name Kageyama on the client list."

"So, what changed?"

"I saw the request for two clients instead of one. I know father doesn't get his makeup done even if he needs it. So, I took a wild guess, more like wishful thinking that you would be here."

"Well, I'm glad you're here. I need a reason to smile today. I haven't seen you in forever, and it's been weeks since I've spoken to you."

"I know, and that's my fault, sweetie. I've been so busy with work that I've kept pushing off speaking to you, but now we can fix that. I'm your stylist for the duration of my visit, which means we can gossip to our heart's delight."

"Great, 'cause I have a lot to get off my chest."

"Oh, Lord, what happened, baby?"

"Look in the closet."

Raising an eyebrow, Miwa does as she's told. It doesn't take long to hear her gasp and come running back to me. Our eyes lock on each other as we stare at each other through the mirror. The look on my sister's face is a mixture of disgust and shock.

"Who picked that dress?"

"Take a wild guess."

"Ugh," Miwa groans as she sets my hair back with a couple of pins to get a clear view of my face. "That witch. I swear she has no sense whatsoever."

"Exactly!"

"I would have gone for a sapphire blue dress with black pumps and diamond jewelry."

"And yet here we are," I groan as my sister begins her makeup routine on my face. "...here we are..."

"Sweetheart, what's the matter? I know the dress is awful, but why are you making that face. You'll get wrinkles before 20 if you keep that up."

"Since we haven't spoken in a while, I never got to tell you I made the soccer team."

"Honey, that's amazing!" Miwa proclaimed, giving me a high-five. "I knew you had it in you."

"Yeah, I'm starting line and the striker. I have a great team."

"Then I don't understand the long face. What's the matter? Is it Tobio? I noticed the dumdum isn't here."

"No, I'm the only one who got dragged here. Mother and Father didn't want him causing a scene during the gala."

"Is that what's upsetting you. That Tobio isn't here?"

"No, it's just... Miwa, I had a tournament this weekend, and they pulled me out. We won our first two games and they decide to pull me out for a gala I don't care about."

"Oh, baby," Miwa gasped, pulling me into a hug. "Baby, I'm so sorry! I had no idea!"

My sister holds me for a second longer before pulling away. In her eyes, I see a mix of emotions, but none of them I can discern. Suddenly, she's back to work on my makeup; however, I notice Miwa wanting to speak, but remains silent. I guess there isn't anything to say.

---

Yup, it's true. Yuko had her dreams crushed, and will be attending a gala instead. Don't worry, things are only going to get more complicated from here on out. In the next few chapters, I want to set up a personal view of Yuko's life and family dynamics. Plus, it's a great way to introduce Miwa and showcase the sibling relationship of the three Kageyama's.

Let me know in the comments how you feel about the chapter. Bye!