My teammates and I had all had our first rounds of matches. Each of us winning in straight sets. I was practically bouncing off the walls with excitement, but, also, in the back of my mind were Oikawa's words:
"Trust me. Just do everything I tell you and you'll have your answer."
I had changed and convinced Samantha to join me to watch Japan's first match. Thankfully, Tobio was a part of the starters during the first set so I didn't really have explain why I was there otherwise.
I was really impressed with the lineup for the team. They were really stacked with amazing players. Hinata really must've enjoyed his time training with everyone. I carefully watched how well all their abilities meshed together and created one solid powerhouse.
"A little quiet there, Vanji ," Samantha smirked, "Watcha thinking about?"
"Oh.. Nothing," I said quickly.
"Ohhh so it doesn't have to do with the fact your totally gushing over Hinata right?" she giggled.
"Samantha," I hushed.
The first set ended 25-14. Japan: 1, France: 0.
During the timeout, Tobio caught a glance of me and I waved. He nodded and like usual Hinata's sharp eyes instantly found me in the crowd. He smirked and winked right at me.
"You little-" I blushed.
"Oooo!" Samantha squealed.
"Remember, he knows you're susceptible to his charm. Don't fall for his cool boy routine, you've gotta stay aloof."
I quickly looked away and feigned disinterest. In my peripheral, I saw his expression change from cheeky to instantly pouty.
Heh.. you always hated when you couldn't get exactly what you want right away.
~~~
The game ended with Japan winning in straight sets. To no surprise, Bokuto's triumphant voice echoed in the gymnasium screeching victory.
We began exiting with the rest of Team USA when I overheard Tobio's voice calling my name:
"Hey!! Vanji!! Come here!!"
Samantha flashed her characteristic evil grin. I shrugged her off and walked back over to the railing.
I leaned over and hollered, "What's up?"
"When's your next match?" he asked.
"I play tonight at 7," I replied.
"Alright I'll be there!" he smiled.
I waved and looked over and noticed Hinata had his arms cross and was impatiently tapping his foot.
I couldn't help my urge to invite him along but I knew Oikawa was right. I needed to stay strong to prove a point. I wasn't going to fall back into old habits.
I smirked, "Will I see you there too Atsumu, Bokuto?"
That really got under his skin.
They both leapt at the opportunity.
"OH HELL YEAH!" Bokuto hollered, "I GOTTA SEE IF THIS KAGEYAMA LEGACY IS IN THE GENES!"
"Why not?" Atsumu grinned smugly, "I don't mind a little entertainment."
"Up for it Shoyo?" Atsumu shrugged coolly.
He huffed and nodded crossing his arms.
I stifled a laugh and waved my goodbyes.
As I made my way out of eye and or ear shot of the others, I felt my composure disintegrate. Tears stung my eyes and my heart was caught in my throat. I knew what Shoyo meant to me.. but.. I had to know for sure that the feelings were mutual.. and not out of convenience or circumstance.
I raised my hands and gently clapped them against my face to gather my senses:
"You can do this.. treat him like your next match up.. don't relent and don't underestimate."
