Would you dare?

by Sonya06

What if Kagami Taiga had a twin? And what if that twin happened to be a challenging girl, who decided to attend Touou Academy as the second manager of the basketball team... Is she capable of managing the problematic ace? And is he capable of handling her?

56. Chapter 56: Play to win

A/N: I'm alive!

Thanks to everyone who followed, favourited and reviewed! And huge thanks that you're still sticking with me, despite my long "break". I have no valid excuse, I kept postponing my writing for a long time - holidays - books - TV series (Riverdale, Mandalorian Lucifer) - reading other fics...

Sorry for not personally replying to your reviews to the last chapter, I'll try to do so this time ;) And sorry for any mistakes me or my Betas overlooked. We wanted to share this as soon as we could.

Well, here's this monstrosity, enjoy!

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Opening yourself up to making mistakes and being vulnerable is what makes it beautiful and special with the person you love. ― Simone Elkeles, Perfect Chemistry

I've always believed that if you put in the work, the results will come. – Michael Jordan

The important thing is that your teammates have to know you're pulling for them and you really want them to be successful. – Kobe Bryant

I love going one-on-one with someone. That's what I do. I've never lost. It's a whole different game, just to have them right in front of you and be able to do whatever you want. – Kobe Bryant

There is no such thing as a perfect basketball player, and I don't believe there is only one greatest player either. – Michael Jordan

Are there any rules when it comes to love? There is just one: Let it change you. Let it leave you better than you were before. — Bianca Sparacino

---

"So, what brings you here today, Aomine?" Imayoshi asked him in the changing room before the morning practise on Tuesday. The ace almost never showed up for morning practises.

Aomine turned around with a yawn, still shirtless. A few hickeys were still visible under his collarbones and on his chest. It was good he could easily hide them if he wanted, but he showed it to Imayoshi on purpose. Satsuki had warned him about some bet and it didn't bode well with him. He knew Aya was pretty capable of handling the sly captain and everyone else on the team, but he hadn't forgotten the bully notes from months ago and he just wanted to be there if the teasing would turn nasty. Not all the guys were as nice as the basketball gang in his class.

"Can't let you bully my woman, capt'n." He gladly used his height to tower over the shorter senpai. Clearly signalling him to back off and let it go.

Imayoshi smirked, though Aomine glowering at him with that hostility put him on guard. Aomine could be intimidating without the intention to be, and with the intention… Not that Imayoshi would show the unease. In a way he cared for the team he was leading and everyone in it. The ace himself was a gamble, a very skilled and prodigious gamble, but Imayoshi believed in him 100%. Aya was a gamble, prodigious too and quite unpredictable, but Imayoshi learned to deal with her despite his doubts. Those two gambles falling in love and dating… Well, he'd expected it, it'd been obvious for a long time, yet he wasn't sure he could put his faith in it. Both of them influenced the team more than they probably realised. They could nourish it, improve it and boost it, or destroy it. Hence, he'd be glad to have some updates on what was going on between the two. Just to be ready to deal with a possible mess.

The hickeys were a good sign just like the fact that Aomine got protective. Yeah, the ace was rather protective than aggressively intimidating. Sweet. "Oh, but I don't bully anyone."

Aomine raised an eyebrow. "Then settle your bet and leave it."

"What bet?"

He narrowed his eyes. "Don't play dumb with me capt'n, doesn't suit you."

"Lead the warm-up today and I might remember what you're talking about. Settling it too."

"You're the worst."

"You're welcome." Imayoshi sniggered.

"Tch." You'll all die then… He sneered, taking a notice how a few guys around paled in dread.

"I'm not asking you a thing," Katsunori said immediately when Aya walked up to him, "so please spare me the details."

"Huh? What are you talking about?" She blinked at him.

"Didn't Aomine stay over?"

"Oh, I certainly won't share the details with you, old man." She teased him, but his bored look said he wasn't impressed. "Or anyone else. No offence…. Where'd you heard that from?"

"…the boys talked about a bet…"

Her eyes narrowed at Imayoshi. "A bet?" It was the first time she was hearing it. "Let me lead morning practises for the rest of the week, please?"

He sighed, he didn't want to torture the boys, but Aya's stamina drills when combined with practising basketball fundamentals were showing off on the boys. Especially on the first years. "Okay. Don't kill them…" although, Aomine seemed to be killing them right now. He was surprised the lazy ace decided to lead the warm-ups, or was coerced by some of Imayoshi's schemes. What in the world… "So… did he stay over?"

"Of course he did. We were just pulling Imayoshi's leg a bit and honestly, it's no one's business."

"Haruka?"

"Knows and we're not dead." She shrugged with a grin.

"Why is he leading today? Why is he even here?"

Aya shrugged with a puzzled expression. He'd told her he'd come, but she hadn't expected it. "Beats me. But I don't mind…" Her eyes trailed after her man. Damn, he looked hot when he was seriously working out with everyone. Then she snapped her attention back to Katsunori. "Anyways, I was curious about your thoughts on the matches we pointed out to you."

"I'm surprised by the winner. I honestly thought Teiko would get back on their high horse, but Shuutoku-middle school… That was really unexpected." He rubbed his chin thoughtfully. "They won't let go of any good players. So it's pointless to scout there unless some of the guys come to ask themselves."

"Why surprised? They are the kings."

"The high schoolers, yes, Mabo is a good coach. But middle school has a different, younger coach, uh… Shirai-kun, the team never stood out. To me it seems they are slowly nurturing the boys to fluently transfer to the high-school team and excel there. For that, they're perfecting their fundamentals, stamina, ball handling and such. They're not necessarily trying to win competitions."

"Yet, they won."

"They did. They're going to the final league in three weeks and then the main event. What a drag this is." He sighed. "As for the other schools… if Kano's brother wants to come here, we'll definitely have him. The other three looked like good assets too." He pulled at his fringe, his eyes trailing to Aomine. There was one thing the ace had been assigned to do. "Are you going to Teiko with Aomine any time soon?"

"We haven't talked about that yet."

"Let me know when you do. It's better if I shout out a warning I'm sending someone. Sanada-san might refuse to let you watch the practise without it, even if it's Aomine."

"Do you know the coach well?"

"He's 13 years younger, so no, I don't know him much. He was not in the national team, but he was a bench warmer in some local team… why he went into coaching, I don't know. I don't remember him much, but I did a little research after Aomine came here and honestly, I don't think he's suited to coach a team like Teiko."

"Hmmm… From what little Daiki told me, I can only agree." Her eyes followed Daiki again. "Okay then, I'll let you know once we decide."

He nodded. "Go. Join them." I know you want to.

"With pleasure." She winked at him and ran off to join the boys. Nothing could beat a good morning workout. And how often did Daiki lead one? She wouldn't be just standing and watching. She had too much energy for that.

"Ayacchi! Hello!" Kise walked into the dancing gym as if he owned the place. Reina tagged behind him, half hiding, looking down. It felt more embarrassing for her now after she'd checked out the gym and Aya.

"Oh! Model-kun?" She walked up to him with a smile. "Hello! Finally using your gift?"

The blonde hugged her briefly in greeting. "Thanks for helping me with Reina." He muttered under his breath. When he pulled back, he had a huge smile on his face. "I finally found someone who'd go with me." He stepped aside, to force Reina out of her hiding.

"Good for you." She smiled and did introductions with Reina again. Pretending they'd met the first time. The girl gave her a grateful look…

"Aominecchi?" Kise was looking around, expecting his friend to pop up from somewhere.

"Here? Nooo, I don't think so. He's come to watch once, but he's more into private lessons. You know him." She grinned. "But I'm happy seeing you here. And I have a few questions for you later."

"Oh? I'll be glad to help, whatever it is."

"Seriously? Kise?!" Taiga's voice carried over the gym when he came out of the changing room.

"Kagamicchi! Hey! So you really do dance." The model grinned. "Be nice to us."

The redhead rolled his eyes. The model was the last thing he wanted to have around. "I don't know why I'm still helping you with this, sister." He grumbled and went to chat with the younger boys, in order to check what they'd done the previous day as he'd stayed over practise instead of coming here.

"Lovely." Aya shook her head, "anyways, don't worry 'bout him, Reina-chan, he looks scarier than he is. Come on, I'll show you around."

"They're not so bad for someone who's never danced before." Taiga hummed after the practise. "Though she seems too tense around Kise."

"If she has a thing for him, it's natural."

Taiga raised an eyebrow. "Isn't she just uncomfortable with the physical contact and attention and people invading her personal space? I'd bet she'd be as tense with me."

"Right Mr. Handsome, sure she would." She teased.

"Urgh, could you stop that? I'm still angry with you."

"Oh come on, my club knows, yes, but honestly, no one cares anymore. It's not a big deal."

"Until we face each other in a match."

"You're witty enough to put them down, not that they'd have time to tease you mid-match; they'll be too preoccupied by guarding you."

He sighed, she was probably right. It didn't make him less annoyed though. "Any tips on how to kill my team with practise?"

"Riko put you in charge?"

"They went overboard with teasing…"

Aya smiled viciously, "I have quite an experience with that. I might even join you. Next Monday?"

He blinked at his twin and grinned conspiratorially. "That might make me less angry with you."

---

During homeroom, Ueda-sensei brought up a sports festival they'd have in less than two weeks on Saturday. From early morning until noon they'd compete in several disciplines, afternoon belonged to all the sports clubs and their presentations, or "open gyms", and evening would be dedicated to a wrap up party – the teachers would cook for them. It wasn't obligatory per se, but classes competed and winners could earn some credits. He introduced the usual disciplines and let them discuss and choose representatives for each of them.

The basketball gang naturally flocked around Aya's desk. "So?" Kano asked enthusiastically. "What are we taking?"

"What do you mean?" Aya raised an eyebrow, "uhm… this is gonna be my first sports day, like ever…" She felt left out that she didn't know anything about the event, but she was curious and excited to find out more.

"Ooooh!" Kano's eyes sparkled, "really? It's one of the best school events. You should definitely participate in something. Like… dunno… dashes?"

"Hmmmm…" Aya zoomed at the blackboard with the list of disciplines, "what about the relay?"

"That's for a team of two girls and two guys, to keep it balanced." Ishii hummed.

Kano whined, "I'm totally terrible at those. I'll go for the cosplay-funky-obstacle run."

"Don't worry, you'll get it. No one else will want to do that one." He jabbed with an eye roll.

"Cosplay-funky-obstacle run? What in the world is that?" Aya asked with her eyes wide. She had a feeling it was a term made up by Kano as it wasn't on the blackboard. Daiki behind her laughed quietly, he loved watching that discipline, but he'd never participate in it.

Kano glanced at Ishii, to see if his friend wanted to elaborate on the subject, and when Ishii shook his head, Kano cleared his throat. "That, my young pupil," he started, "is the funniest event of them all. You start the run, picking a costume in a bag in some big tent or wherever the run starts. You have to change as fast as possible into something you see for the first time, and then there are obstacles! Apple bobbing, crawling under a net, jumping over a mud bath, avoiding volleys of paint filled balloons, finding a sweet in a box full of flour – with you face of course, and so on… Whatever they prepare."

She laughed. "How do you know the costume will fit?"

"You don't. I could pick up a ballet costume or something. Actually, I did once…" Kano shrugged. "You have to be a bit lucky. It's about the thrill and fun! I'm definitely gonna go for that."

"Don't lose your pants like last time. Or Naito'll tease to no ends." Ishii teased him.

"Shut it! I won that one anyways!"

Kiku blushed and looked at Sakurai. He was too quiet. "Sakurai-kun, what about you?"

The direct question startled him. "Sorry! I – uh – I don't really want to get involved…" He glanced shyly at his hands. He'd had a bad experience before, if he could avoid this event, he'd rather stay at home pretending to be sick, but since they had the clubs' presentations…

Everyone turned to him. "Why?"

"I'm sorry, I just… I don't want to. Sorry." He peeped. "But I'll be at the club's event, whatever we come up with."

"We have to plan the club event?" Aya sighed, like she didn't have enough things on her plate. You're a Kagami; woman up, girl, you can do everything you need to…

"Sure, something like… we'll let the senpais teach people how to shoot, and we can put Aomine up against any challengers – for a few bucks they can try their luck. We'll earn some easy money for the club that way." Ishii shrugged pragmatically.

"Like anyone is stupid enough to do that." Daiki grumbled; he didn't like these school events much. Yeah, it could be fun, but really? Putting him to play against no real challenge? He doubted anyone would go for it. Which meant his afternoon would drag for eternity.

"If it is up to three against one…" The more Ishii thought about it, the more he liked the idea. And he was sure Imayoshi would give it a blessing too. It was easy money for the club.

Daiki rolled his eyes at that.

"Is it even okay to take money for it?" Aya asked.

"Oh, of course. Even if it wasn't there'd definitely be some bets. Anyways, what do you want to do, Aya-chan?"

"Anyone up for the relay?" She glanced at Daiki.

He raised an eyebrow at her. Did she really mean it? "You want to destroy them, Sweetheart?"

"You don't want to? It's cheap credits for us."

"I don't really care." He shrugged. This was more interesting than the idea of standing under a basket taking challenges, though he already knew he wouldn't avoid it – not with Imayoshi as the captain. But joining a relay with Aya? That sounded better. He wasn't a team player, but when it was Aya… he could make an exception. "Who else would join?"

She glanced at Ishii, whose eyes widened. "I don't mind, but I'm not as fast as you two..." he was staring at Aomine, wondering what was going on for the Ace to agree on this without a fight. Then again… if he'd stayed over at Aya-chan's, Ishii could understand Aomine's motivation.

"Fast enough."

"And which girl –" Ishii's mouth went open when he trailed Aya's gaze.

"No!" Kiku protested, louder than what was usual. "I'm not… I can't… I-I-I… No."

"Sweetheart, didn't you say it's cheap credits? Do you wanna win, or lose?" Daiki asked; he didn't mean anything bad, it just came out of his mouth naturally.

She shot him a glare. "I wanna win with Kiku on my team." She looked at the girl determinedly. "And show all the bitches that she's not a liability."

"But I am!" Kiku protested. "In this, I am. It's a 4x400 relay, even if I fall only once or twice… No way will you two manage to catch up!"

"Thank you for counting on me too." Ishii huffed under his breath.

"Eh– I didn't–"

"Are you challenging us now?" Daiki raised an eyebrow at her,

Kiku averted her eyes from Aomine's stormy gaze. Had she just poked the bear? "I-I… You won't win with me. You'll all get embarrassed." She muttered. But part of her was now curious about it too. No one had ever asked her to join a relay or anything. The P.E. was only survivable thanks to Aya. And sports days… Well… Kiku would agree with Sakurai on this one. But… Could the two catch up and win? If not them, who else? If she got these credits, it'd improve her P.E. score a lot.

"Kiku." Aya said expectantly, sensing she could push the girl a bit. "Would you join us in the relay and win with us?"

"I-I… I no. w-well, maybe, I could… t-try…?" She peeked at the redhead. What if…?

"Yes!" Aya pumped up her fist in delight.

In the end, Kano got his cosplay-funky-obstacle run as no one else was willing to humiliate themselves. The four of them took the relay, no one protested. Aki and Rei made some teasing snarky comments in Kiku's way, but it didn't have any hostility to it and Kiku'd swear there was an undertone of admiration. Aya was then assigned to the other two dashes as well. She didn't volunteer, but she didn't protest when they asked her to run for them. She was the fastest girl in the class after all, if not the whole school. The boys from the track and field, however, didn't give up their dashes to Aomine. They wanted to compete on their own. Not that Daiki minded. One voluntary contest was enough for him. And there was also a tug-of-war they listed him for. And pole toppling, he'd be involved with the rest of the boys from the class minus Sakurai; because Daiki was sure the boy would find an excuse.

It'd be a taxing day. But he wanted Aya to enjoy it, so he didn't really care. And accepted his role in all this.

They got to eat lunch on the rooftop alone. It was cosy and nice, as everything was getting back to the usual tracks. Practises, classes, more practises, Daiki's dogs. At least they could have lunches together like this. A few times a week. Yet it was actually better than the usual tracks.

"I'm surprised you took all those roles in the sports festival." She hummed with a smile. She liked they could find some alone time during school hours.

He smirked. "Toppling the pole and tug of war are fun, you'll see. And we'll win the race."

"Thank you for that. I want Kiku to see it's not a tragedy, and that she can be on a winning team." She smiled widely. "And it can totally boost her mark from P.E. And–"

"–and you totally hate the bitches who made fun of her during classes. Yeah, yeah, I get it… Even if she falls and whatnot, we'll catch up. They all know it."

He is amazing when he wants to be. "Aaa, sounds like we're the power couple around here."

"Aren't we?" He laughed at that. But it was kind of the truth. Some students talked about them like that; at least that's what he put together from what he'd overheard in the changing room during P.E. or those few times he dropped by at practises.

"Yeah, maybe." She laughed with him, but it died out quickly as she remembered the duty they had ahead. Mission Teiko…

Her reddish eyes bore into his seriously and he knew she wanted something. And it wasn't a kiss. And he probably wouldn't like it. "What is it?"

"When are we going to Teiko?"

Yep, he didn't like it. He sighed, lowering his lunch, staring into nowhere in particular. "How about: never?"

"Daiki."

"Tch, it's just pointless!" He barked defensively, frowning and thinking about it all. There was no one that good in Teiko nowadays and no one from there would come to Touou anyways. He'd bet on it. But everyone on the team had some role; even if he could get out of it, which he probably could simply by ditching it… "Imayoshi will make you go no matter what, eh?" He asked after a while, his tone softening up a little.

She made a face, "probably. But I'm also curious."

He let out a heavy, tormented sigh. Of course she was. "…fine… But only because it's you. Friday?"

"Fine with me. Dinner afterwards?"

"Oh, a date? I'd love to, but I have two energetic dogs to walk. Maybe three. But afterwards…"

She bit her lower lip in thought. "Is there something close to your usual walk route, where we could stop by? Uhm, cafeteria, patisserie or something like that?"

"There should be something, I guess. Wait, is that considered a proper date for you?"

"Huh? Yeah, sure. We'll be together, have a walk, talk, play with the dogs, go for a cake or something." She named with a smile and sparkling eyes. "Proper for me." Then she tilted her head, "well, not all the time, but I like the sound of it."

He smirked. "Suddenly, Teiko doesn't sound so bad."

"Thank you." She leaned to him and kissed him in the corner of his mouth.

He raised an eyebrow at her as if asking 'That's all I get for my sacrifice?' and leaned down for a proper kiss. She chuckled against his lips and eagerly responded. She had a cuddly, guy who loved physical contact and she just loved the fact. And kissing him. And everything.

---

"Wow," Aya looked all around her when they walked past the Teiko's brick gates. It was huge. True, Touou was a high school with lots of students, spacious school grounds and dormitories, but it looked less perfect than this. Teiko had that snobbish air around it. Aya couldn't quite explain it, but for a moment she irrationally worried if she was dressed properly enough to step a foot there – wearing her school's uniform it was a really stupid thought. All the buildings here were pure white. Front garden was trimmed to perfection. It was October already, the trees were changing colours, leaves were slowly starting to fall off, yet there was not one stray leaf on the pavements. And the school's property went far back, probably towards the gyms.

Daiki let her look; actually, he looked around too. This place brought back memories, not necessarily nice ones. But it was strange, he suddenly couldn't remember how it had been, going there…

After a moment, she asked: "Have you really studied here?"

The question snapped him out of his thoughts. "Hah? You think I'm too dumb for it?" He raised an eyebrow and started leading her towards the basketball gyms.

"What? No! It's just… It's like elite school, snobbish... Fit for someone like Seijuurou, maybe even Midorima… Okay, us too. It's a kind of a place where Haruka would've shipped us to in order to keep images and we would've hated it. If it hadn't been for Seth and if Haruka'd cared enough… But… you're totally not like that. Neither is Kise nor Kuroko-kun, and oh, not Atsushi. How did you all even get here?"

"It had the best basketball team and the best coach." Daiki shrugged. "This was the only place I wanted to go to. And Satsuki was going here too."

She blinked. Of course that was the motivation… "But Kise? He wasn't into basketball before second year?"

"It's within walking distance from the modelling agency. And the school allowed him to skip because of work sometimes. Using him as an advertisement too, I think."

"Oh, so it's you, Aomine." A boy walked up to them to greet them. He was about Aya's height, with shoulder-length black hair tied back, narrow eyes set a bit too far apart, flat nose and braces. He had an acne problem and he didn't seem pleased by the guests. "What are you doing here?" The boy was obviously fed up by seeing Aomine. He frowned, his face curling into a hostile grimace.

Daiki stared at the boy, he was certain it was a third year, but he couldn't fish out the name.

"Well, hello to you too." Aya said neutrally, forcing the boy to look at her for the first time.

"She's with you?" The boy asked, looking back at Aomine, not acknowledging Aya's presence.

A vein on her neck popped up. It was obvious she was with Daiki. This boy's behaviour was so rude.

He hadn't expected a warm welcome. Still… This guy was getting on his nerves. "She can talk, but yeah, she's with me and she ain't Satsuki so if I were you, I wouldn't piss her off, uhm…"

"Kazami Nobita." The boy reminded him with displease. "Current shooting guard. I was there on the bench the whole time. Not like you'd remember."

Daiki shrugged. "I had no reason to." The ace said truthfully. He could definitely see a difference. In Touou, even if the relationship with the teammates weren't 100% awesome, he did remember almost all the names by now, especially those from his year. But back here… After they'd been named the generation of miracles, the rest of the boys just veered away from them. And then he'd stopped coming to practises. He had no need or reason to remember their names.

Aya sighed, she wouldn't get angry over this; it wasn't worth it. And maybe it was better she stayed nameless. "Can we go further, or what, Kazami-kun?" I don't want to deal with your issues.

"Do what you want. I'm not needed to guide you. Coach is in the first string's gym, if you decide to go there." Kazami said sourly, turning his back to them. "Things have changed around here." He said over his shoulder and walked away.

"Yeah, I've noticed." Daiki muttered.

"What the hell?" Aya asked, shaking her head in disbelief.

He made a grimace. "Welcome to the new Teiko."

"Well, let's see what exactly has changed, shall we?" She stretched out her hand and smiled.

Daiki was more than happy to take her hand while showing her around . They watched practises of the third and the second strings. Aya was surprised by this division; in her opinion the guys could fit into one or maybe two gyms just fine, there weren't that many of them, though more than in Touou. And as Daiki pointed out, there were less, a lot less boys than during his three years in this school. Many of them must've left the club this year. The boys were giving the couple strange looks, coaches of the other two strings asking them what the purpose of their visit was; they were whispering about Aomine, older boys giving insight to the first years. Everyone seemed to know him, but they weren't exactly admiring him or welcoming him like an alumni or anything. They didn't like him much. And it could be felt. Envy, grudge, hostility were heavy in the air. It made Aya wonder what kind of stories about the generation of miracles were circulating among the students in this school. What welcome would they give to Kise? Or the others? These guys had won all the matches in the name of the school and the club, after all. But Aya knew that it didn't always earn respect or acceptance among peers. On the contrary… And given the initial arrogance of the five…

"Are there really no first years in the first string?"

"No. When the four of us made it through the initial tests, in our first year it was a big deal. Usually there are no first years there."

"Hm."

"You don't like it."

"Well, have you ever practised with the other strings? I mean, regularly, like once a week or so?"

Daiki rubbed his chin in thought as they were heading towards the first string's gym. "Not really. It'd be a waste of our time."

"Seriously?"

He shrugged and sighed, rubbing the back of his neck. "Look, there was a time when I used to stay over practise in the third string's gym when ours' got too crowded…" Those were the times when he'd used to work his ass off to improve. "Except Kuroko, no one from those guys cared to train longer. So it would be a waste of time."

She was merely watching him, listening. He knew her already; he knew what she was probably thinking. "You do get it, right?" He asked to make sure she understood.

"Mhm, I hear you." She nodded with a half-smile. "It sucks though, if only they cared enough to practise with you, they'd have improved drastically. Or at least they could have gotten used to players like you and wouldn't lose the moment you've left."

"Doesn't matter what could've been…" He looked ahead, away from those red eyes.

Aya knew he wasn't the one to dwell on things for too long, but she was curious: "So you practised with Kuroko-kun?"

He nodded with a frown. He was happy she was actually listening; this was the topic that made him uncomfortable, but he knew she would delve into it deeper and he would satiate her curiosity. She was irresistible. Yet, if he hadn't been ready to talk with her, to let her know about this, about Teiko, he wouldn't have taken her with him. "He was so hopelessly useless, it bugged me… Someone who practised as much as us, if not more, and he couldn't even dribble properly? Come on! He couldn't even get to the second string… What a waste."

"So, you actually helped him get to the regulars?"

"Tch, not really. Kuroko being the shadow… that was all Akashi's idea." Him practising with Kuroko hadn't helped the boy that much. It'd been Akashi. And then Daiki'd been just fooling around by telling Kuroko to try ninja passes or something… He hadn't thought it was possible, but Kuroko had somehow managed to learn exactly that. And the ghostly boy made and earned his spot in the regular team as the sixth man.

"Hmmm… I wouldn't give Seijuurou all the credit for that. Still… Why is there, uh, bad blood between Kuroko and you?"

He looked deep into her eyes, not sure he wanted to go down that path, then thinking how to put it into words. Maybe she should hear it from him and not Satsuki again. "I wouldn't call it bad blood. ...there is bad blood between Kuroko and Akashi though, for some reason I don't know." He was aware it was something about their last match, the one that had made Kuroko quit, but neither the shadow or the captain shared the details with the rest of the team. He'd never asked but it bothered him to this day, because he never saw Kuroko as a quitter. "With me… I'd say it's a difference in opinions. We don't hate each other, but if he wants to impose his beliefs on me, he should be damn well able to win. Otherwise, it's just… words. Empty, meaningless words. And we both know he can't win alone, not without a great light. And there is no better light than me out there."

I wouldn't vouch for that… "Let's hope they'll put up a better fight in the winter then, right?" She winked at him.

He snorted, but his grin had something genuine in it. Can your brother do miracles? "Yeah, let's hope they'll do."

"Time to meet the coach?" She motioned her hand towards the open gym's door.

"After you, my love." He made a gallant gesture to lift the mood and they both chuckled at it. He had no idea where that came from, but he wanted to change the topic and he was happy to see her smile.

As she soon found out, Sanada Naoto was… a boring man with no charisma whatsoever. Aya would swear the man's face was a mask of boredom and disinterest mixed with half-hearted strictness. He had a plain face with high cheekbones and sunken cheeks. He was wearing glasses and a suit with a necktie. Katsunori wore formal clothes too, but not a full suit… It was weird during the practise and inside of the gym. The vibe he was giving off, that kind of coach would discourage her from practising just by being in the gym.

He greeted the two without any enthusiasm. When he accepted Aya's outstretched hand, he didn't give it a proper squeeze she'd expect from a man, a sportsman. It felt like shaking hands with a rag doll or a dead fish.

"Didn't expect you to be back." The man eyed Daiki with something that could be a surprise, or maybe the man just remembered something highly unpleasant.

"Tch, I'm not back because I want to. Certainly not to meet you." Daiki didn't expect a warm welcome. But this man just ticked him off. There was something about him… Like Sanada's half-dead energy transferred onto him and stuck like a tar, or sapped all of Daiki's own energy away. He could never get used to that. Now when he thought about it, this was a part of the reason why he'd stopped showing up for practises. Not a big part of it, but still, it made him wonder what Aya thought about the man.

"…Harasawa-san mentioned you're involved in the recruiting."

"She is." He pointed a thumb at Aya and smirked lazily, knowing the man hated that smirk. "I was just interested in how weak you are without us."

"You haven't changed a bit." Sanada mused. "Well, watch. But I don't think you'd want to recruit here."

"We'll decide after watching." Aya said and took a few steps away. The man seemed to be an energetic vampire. This would be a long, tiring afternoon.

Daiki followed her suit, and stayed close to her. He was glad she was there with him; like his little personal sun.

"You really don't like him, eh?" She asked, glancing at Daiki. The way he stood by her, as if he was shielding her from the coach and some of the guys who were staring at her curiously. She smiled at the thought.

"Tch, not a bit."

They were walking from Teiko, both of them happy to put some distance between them and the school in silence. Aya could understand why Daiki came to hate that place. "That was–"

"Shitty?" Daiki supplied, cutting her off.

"I wanted to say interesting."

He snorted and shook his head. "They're pathetic."

"They reflect the coach."

"Even more pathetic. I hope no one caught your eye."

"Hmmm… Uzuki-kun and Seiya-kun stood out to me. Given the right environment…"

Uzuki, the current power forward and Seiya the center. True, the center was very skilled and already around 185 cm tall; given he was 14, the boy would most certainly grow taller. They needed to search for a strong center to take Wakamatsu's place at some point, because Oyama was certainly not cut out for the job. But power forward? Compared to Daiki the boy was a joke. Well, everyone there was a joke compared to him. "Why Uzuki? We won't need a power forward anytime soon."

She blinked at him, a smile stretching on her face. So he was actually thinking about the team's needs for the future. "But a small forward yes… Susa-senpai will be gone after the Winter cup. While Naito can replace Imayoshi-senpai; he's been bothering the captain to practise overtime with him for some time now. We still need to fill one spot."

Daiki raised an eyebrow at that. "How can anyone want to spend their free time with that wicked bully?"

"Naito can be just as bad if he wants."

"Tch, I wanted to say… There are better guys to fill Susa's spot."

"Like?"

"Tada. Or Morihata."

She nodded. "But for a year only though. That's the thing about high-school teams, they change each year."

He grinned. "It'd be no fun otherwise."

She chuckled. At least his interest kept kindling inside of him. Maybe it wasn't the previous bonfire of love for the sport, but she was happy to see the flame slowly growing. "Now we go take the dogs?"

"I hope you have some change of clothes." He looked her up and down curiously. No way would her uniform stay spotless.

"I believe you can lend me some of your t-shirts?"

He smirked at her and took her hand, intertwining their fingers. Oh, he loved her. "With pleasure."

"I see your date was a success." Taiga greeted her, obviously agitated. "Now come here and help me with the fucking story, or I'll throw it out of the window!"

"I had a great day, Teiko was interesting and yes, I enjoyed the date and the dogs, and the ice cream and Michiko-san's dinner." She leaned against his door frame and crossed her arms. "Thanks for asking! But by all means, what can I do for you?"

"Help me with this shit! It's due at midnight!" He turned on his chair to look at her gravely. He ignored her biting response, which meant he was really desperate.

She rolled her eyes and sighed heavily; she hoped for a good long shower and peaceful evening with a book or a movie and cocoa. But when her twin needed help… "What's the topic?"

"My day in the past." He grimaced with disgust. "It's s'posed to be a story. I'm to choose an era or a year and place or a historical figure I'd want to meet and write a story about it! What an idiotic topic!"

"As any would be for you…" She muttered. Taiga was terrible at essays, written works and whatnot. "Tell me your thoughts so far and we'll make something passable." Truthfully, she didn't like writing stories either. If it was an essay, or a report or some summarisation of facts, she was fine with it. But fiction? Not so much.

---

"Hi Riko, boys! Long time no see!" Aya walked into the Seirin's gym on Monday with a smile. Taiga was leading warm-ups, and they exchanged a knowing look.

"Aya-chan?" Riko blinked at her. "Kagami-kun hasn't warned me…?"

"Sorry, it's a surprise for you all."

"Oh… You want to lead the practise?"

"If you don't mind… You're the coach."

Riko grinned. "Not at all. I'll gladly observe what you have in mind for them. But I have one condition."

"Which is?"

"You'll show us some dance with Taiga, I won't believe he can do it until I see it for myself."

"Taiga?"

"Huh?!"

"When we're done killing them, you chose choreography to show off!"

He rolled his eyes, but his mind was already going through his repertoire. "Fine!"

"Great! Love ya!" She grinned, and looked back at Riko with satisfaction. "Now, I'll go change. Will you show me to some changing room?"

"Oh, right, you were never here… Sorry. Come on."

If Taiga's warm-ups and those few practises he'd led were hard, Aya's idea of practise was deadly. They had to pass a ball around on their tiptoes. They had to dribble blindfolded, or do other exercises like that. And when she split them into pairs and let them pass the ball still blindfolded, they'd swear it was a payback for teasing Taiga. Which it was, of course.

"I never thought of that…" Riko mused.

"Well, the perception changes completely. We heavily rely on our sight, and in basketball it is necessary, but if they learn to move their bodies around with certainty while not seeing… If the ball becomes like an extension of their bodies and they don't have to look at it while handling it… It'll improve their skills tenfold. Of course I'm not talking about playing a game or anything like that." She shrugged with a smile. "They have a great grip on the floor, I s'pose your beach practise paid off."

"That was the whole point of practising on the beach. But I'll take them to the mountains again before the matches."

"Can I see them play?"

"Are you done torturing them?"

Aya grinned. "Two more minutes of this, then a few sprints and then they could get a little five minute game."

"You want them to run blindly?"

"Sort of."

Aya made them follow her voice to one side of the gym, where she guided them to make a line with equal distances between them. At first she let them walk slowly to the other side and back. Some of them could walk straight; some of them strayed a bit away. It was funny to watch. Then she made them jog slowly picking up the pace, but she was the one ordering them to stop and go turn back, before running into a wall or one another. Then she added squats, or push ups, or high jumps, or whatever was on her mind to each 'stop'. They had to trust her.

Riko blew her whistle to end it after Aya's ten minutes passed. The boys, drenched in sweat, collectively slumped to the ground and took off the blindfolds. It was the most physically and mentally taxing practise they'd ever had.

And then there was the demon Riko, who forced them to get up and play a five minute game. The game was off, but they pulled through and collapsed to the ground again afterwards. They were damn happy that Aya was not on their team with Riko. If the girls ganged up on them, they'd be dead within a week.

"Don't you have mercy?" Taiga complained, glaring at his twin. "We have one more practise, you know."

"And we're showing off here too, so, what did you choose?"

Taiga raised the blindfold. "How confident do you feel?"

Her eyebrows arched up and a wide smile spread on her face. Taiga handed her his phone with the song and she had to admit, she'd expected something else, but this, this they could do with their eyes closed anytime, anywhere.

"They're not gonna do, what I think they're gonna do, right?" Koganei asked.

"I think they are." Kiyoshi mused, shuffling to the side to give twins all the space they needed.

Riko was in charge of the music and Aya had two songs ready.

"Okay, so first one will be a classic Viennese Waltz, we can seriously do that with our eyes blindfolded and then there'll be something more lively. The very thing you've shared in your chat. Just so you can see by yourselves that Taiga can indeed do it. And… It's not exactly right without a proper dress, so keep that in mind."

They all exchanged curious and expectant glances and settled on the ground. The twins took a good look where everyone was and picked a spot from which they could move without colliding with a wall. The dance was not difficult for them, they knew it by heart and they moved in a square, so if they started from the right spot, they didn't need to see.

The song Taiga chose sounded angelic. No one knew the language of it, not even Taiga, but it sounded so pure and peaceful. He liked it. It calmed him down and put him at ease. He led Aya lightly, with confidence and certainty. Even after the deadly practise he'd just gone through. She smiled, though she knew he couldn't see it. She felt very light, like she could sprout wings and fly. Taiga's every step and move was precise, his hands giving her clear signals with slight pressure.

He has a particularly good day… She thought happily.

They stopped and bowed, taking off the blindfolds.

The boys stared at them stunned. They had no idea Taiga could be so… graceful, elegant.

"What? You thought his sister was a world champion and he knew nothing?" She paused under all the gaping eyes staring at her, not sure if Taiga had told them or not. "He did talk to you, right?" She glanced at him.

"Yeah, yeah… Sort of…" He scratched the back of his head sheepishly avoiding eye-contact with his twin.

"W-wait, you're what?!" Riko stared at her with wide eyes. "He said you went to competitions, not that you were… KAGAMI!" She pointed at Taiga accusingly. "You're mopping the gym for the next month!"

"Oh boy… So the cat's out of the bag. Sorry, it wasn't really a secret it's just… I'm done with all that already. It doesn't matter anymore."

"Aya-chan, dear." Riko said seriously, looking straight at Aya. "Now you'll speak. Forget the dance, I need to know more, because this BUM, won't tell unless we ask directly, and I don't know what to ask directly."

"Does the name Kagami Haruka ring a bell to you?" She asked; Riko was a daughter of one of their teammates and she should've heard the names… "And Kagami Kyou?"

Riko's mouth opened in surprise. "Your father is…?"

"Haruka." Aya nodded.

"…of course he is…" Then her whistle hit Taiga in the head. Then her fist met his stomach and soon he was subdued in boston crab holding, crying from the pain his furious coach inflicted.

"Aida-san, you will break his back if you continue." Kuroko peeped after a moment. "It is obvious they are related."

"You knew?!" She jumped up, changing the target of her fury.

Kuroko strategically stepped behind Aya, almost blending with her shadow. "Uhm, Kise-kun told me, and it is really obvious. They look so much alike."

Riko's anger dissipated as quickly as it flared and she rubbed her temples. She felt like she just failed as a coach. She should've known. She should've figured it out much, much sooner. They were rich; Taiga had an amazing talent and knew a lot if he wasn't overtaken by his emotions… She should've researched him more.

"We have another practise in about 45 minutes. And we need to run, but… dinner at Maji burger on Wednesday after practise?" She offered with a smile. "It's on us. This time. As an apology."

The brunette sighed heavily. "I should've figured it out."

"You had no reason to connect us. Kagami is not such a unique name. I bet you have a few other Kagamis in the school."

"Still…"

######

"You have a great team, you know that?" Aya bumped into Taiga's side when they were walking home after treating the entire Seirin's team for dinner. She'd already known them, she was aware they were an amazing team, but she didn't get to spend much time with them. She really appreciated this evening. "Maybe they could eat a little less…" She joked, patting her wallet.

"You were the one making amends, I'm glad no one held back." He laughed.

"Amends?!" She stared at him scandalously. "You're the one who should've told them that!"

"Why? It's not like you've never met them before."

"It was during matches mostly!"

They stared at each other for a minute then shook their heads and laughed together. "Yeah, they are great." He hummed.

"Kiyoshi senpai is the real captain of the team, eh?"

"Hm? What do you mean?"

"Well, Hyuuga-senpai is the captain. He is strict, straightforward, can pull you, lead you. But I get the feeling that Kiyoshi-senpai is the real captain. He is crafty, like he always has something else on his mind. Something he wants to achieve, doesn't say it, but achieves it nonetheless… And, doesn't Hyuuga-senpai discuss everything with him? Doesn't he rely on Kiyoshi-senpai to support you? To be there with his craftiness?"

"Huh… I've never thought about it… But now that you say it…" It was true, the dynamics of the team changed once Kiyoshi had returned. Taiga had a strange feeling about Kiyoshi at first, but he came to like the senpai. The center was strange, crafty, maybe, but a good person. Not that Taiga knew that much about him. "…huh… Kiyoshi-senpai is more like the older brother of the whole team or something. Real captain, or captain, or whatever, I think they're both important in their own way. Hyuuga-senpai is stricter though."

---

Satsuki blinked in surprise when she saw Kiku and Aya on the running track early in the morning. Way before the morning practise would begin. She turned on her heel and went to buy them a warm tea to the vending machine and then jogged towards them. The mornings were already chilly.

"Mornin'!" She greeted them with a bright smile.

Both girls snapped at her, startled. They hadn't expected anyone at this impossible early hour. "Oh, hey! What are you doing here so soon?" Aya asked, tucking a strand of loose hair behind her ear.

"I forgot a textbook, so I have to do my homework now. And I promised Imayoshi-senpai a report on Shuutoku – don't ask why, he just wanted it in advance." She sighed. "I have to finish it up. And you two? Practising for the relay?"

"Yep." Aya nodded.

"And this is the only time there's no one watching us. It's enough that I'll embarrass myself on the event…" Kiku hummed, gladly taking the tea from Satsuki.

"Oh, you're certainly gonna win!" The pinkette cheered happily. "I've looked into the other teams for the relay, and I have a complete faith in you!"

"You haven't seen me run." Kiku grumbled under her breath. But she had to admit she was getting a bit better at keeping her balance and not tripping over her feet. Maybe it was a skill after all. But they only had two more days; it wasn't enough for the girl. You'd need a year. She thought bitterly.

"I have." She grinned. "And you've made great progress. Kiku-chan!" She tapped the girl's nose. "When I say you'll win, you will." The pink eyes were suddenly too persuasive and too intense. And Kiku made a mental note that maybe Satsuki didn't play any sport for real, but the girl had a soul and heart of a true sportsman.

---

"Is your bone okay enough for you to be running around?" She asked Kano when he came to the gym ready to practise.

Kano grinned and moved his arm around. "As good as new." He grinned. "I could've come last week too, but I didn't want to push it."

"That's good." Katsunori hummed in approval. He was glad to see that not everyone on his team was a reckless idiot.

"So don't worry, Aya-chan. I have the funky obstacle race to win tomorrow!" Without further chitchat, he joined the warm-ups. It was obvious he was still a bit careful and unsure when using the healed arm, but he seemed doing fine otherwise.

"I hate those school events." Katsunori conveyed. Watching over the kids, sacrificing his day off for silly sport events… He believed everyone could spend that time better.

Aya looked up at him. "Really? I've never been to such school event, so I'm excited."

"Right… You know you can invite your family and friends if you want to, right?"

She frowned. "I'd rather not."

He chuckled quietly. "If Haruka finds out, which he will, I'll bet he comes."

"Please, do not scare me! And do not tell him!"

"Might already have…" He looked at her with all the seriousness he could muster. Of course he'd said this to Hiroto, as a complaint, and since the bar was available for all… Haruka had found out already too. Katsunori didn't know about it, though. Yet. "And I bet if he comes, he'll challenge Daiki. If he doesn't bail on Imayoshi's plans… Anyways, when that happens, don't forget to rile your old man up to give us some real money for the match."

She closed her eyes and rubbed her face. Her daddy crashing the festival… She prayed it wouldn't happen. Still… "You think Haruka will lose?"

Katsunori raised an eyebrow at her. "He hasn't played seriously in years. Muscle memory, experience and instincts can only help him so much. And he is getting older, slower. My bets are on Aomine this time."

"Hm, but he has watched the game between us and Seirin."

"You know that Aomine was playing half-assedly there. And Haruka hasn't watched the game against Kaijo, right?"

"Not that I know of, no."

"Well, I'd like to see him lose to your boyfriend, Robin. Maybe then he'd join Hiroto and me for some little games. For old times' sake."

"You're still playing with Hiroto?"

"And some others. I need to keep myself in shape." A small smirk played on his lips. "Men don't like getting old, or admitting it, trust me."

"So tomorrow is your sports festival, huh?" Haruka asked over dinner casually.

"You're not going." She said seriously, then shot a glare at Taiga, "you neither."

"Why not? Derek should see how that goes around here. Are you in any disciplines, 'sis?" He asked her with a wide grin. He was sure she was involved, and he wanted to see. And if there was any chance to try playing against Aomine, or at least seeing him play first-handedly, he'd take it.

"All dashes. And relay. And then we have a club event in the afternoon, so I have to be around there. And then we have some after party sort of thing…"

"And that boy of yours? Does he compete in something?" Haruka was curious, he'd met Aomine a few times, but he hadn't really had a normal conversation with the boy. And the first impression he'd gotten of Aomine was bored and arrogant. He wanted to see the boy compete for real; he wouldn't let the chance slip.

"In the relay with me, tug of war and pole toppling, whatever that is."

"You didn't ask?"He raised an eyebrow at her.

She shrugged. "I did, the boys told me I'd see. And neither Kiku nor Satsuki wanted to spoil the boys' fun… Urgh… And I didn't really have time or mood to go ask around like an idiot."

One side of Haruka's lips turned upwards in a semi-wicked smirk. If the boys kept her in the dark, he wouldn't ruin their fun. After over a month of trying to be a part of his kids' lives again, he almost couldn't remember why the fuck had he been such a jerk to them.

---

The weather forecast was favourable, it was supposed to get warm and sunny during the day, but early mornings were quite chilly already. Aya was really looking forward to bathe in warm sunshine, until then she had to keep herself moving. She really hated the cold.

Thankfully, she was already on the track, jumping up and down to warm up her muscles, stretching and overall getting ready to go for the first dash in fifteen minutes. She looked around, scanning the area, and all the people already gathered there. Schoolmates, parents, teachers… Why can't they sleep in once in a while? She knew that Haruka, Taiga and Derek would definitely be there despite her plea. But she couldn't see them anywhere yet and it unsettled her a bit. Most likely, they weren't there yet, but she wanted to know their whereabouts at her school.

As in the contrary to previous weeks, the day of the sports festival felt sluggish to Aya. Like each and every minute was worth ten. It was unusual, but she didn't really mind. The previous weeks passed by in a flash; heck her whole life seemed to be flying by so fast. Sometimes she had to remind herself to slow down and savour the moments. And this day was like this. She wanted to enjoy it to the fullest. It was her first sports festival. Even if she didn't have stage fright, liked competing and was already pumped up, it was a little bit stressful.

"Don't tell me you are stressed about this." Daiki said with a smirk, walking up to her. He saw her looking around and sighing a few times. She might've been putting up her usual cheerful face, but something was bothering her, he could tell.

"Huh?" She blinked at him; it was nice to see the excitement and good-hearted teasing in those stormy eyes. She wanted to kiss him. "It's not that."

He noticed how she glimpsed at his lips. He shouldn't kiss her there in front of everyone. "Then what?" He asked, glancing at her lips wistfully too, wondering if she'd notice.

"Family visit planned for me."

His eyebrows went up. That was unexpected. "All of them?" There were three men in Aya's household now.

She nodded gravely. "Apparently, they decided to educate Derek about events in Japanese high-schools, plus he's learning Japanese now, so they claim it's beneficial for him to use all chances he gets to try using the language." With a sigh she scanned the crowd of people again. "They have a point; I can't really protest against that."

"Why do you care anyways? Isn't it good they're comin'?"

"Are your parents coming to watch you race?"

He scratched the back of his neck sheepishly. When was the last time his parents came to watch one of his school events? He wasn't sure. He'd probably been in elementary school. He didn't blame them. They were always too busy with their work and irregular shifts they tried to organise the best they could. He was used to it, and honestly, he was happy he didn't have his parents watching him as he'd usually skipped his duties anyways, or bolted to some hiding place he had. This year though, with Aya here, he wanted to try enjoying the event.

"They're working this weekend. Which means," he smirked, "I have an empty house tomorrow."

She blinked at him and a sly smile curled her lips upwards. Oh, she saw how he was glancing at her lips, and she was more than sure he'd be delighted to get intimate any time they had a chance to. It'd been two weeks since he'd spent the weekend at her place. A few dates and a few kisses didn't cover it. Not for her, and certainly not for Daiki. She'd love to get naked with him again, but she teased a bit: "Oh, are you suggesting something, Darling?"

"I don't know, am I?"

She laughed at his innocent expression with a daring undertone. "You know you are. And I'd love to stop by. If that's what's on your mind…"

"Great." He smiled genuinely and scanned the crowd just like she did a moment ago. It was about time they showed up.

"Ah, here they come…" Her head snapped in the direction of the main building and school gates.

Daiki followed her gaze, but he couldn't see them from this distance yet. "Twin thing?" He asked curiously.

"I can find Taiga anywhere." She shrugged. It was like a magnet, if she focused and she never complained about it. It was a good thing.

"Any chance he'll challenge me in the afternoon?" Daiki narrowed his eyes and finally spotted the trio.

"About 50%. But I'm sure father will."

His eyes widened. "…for real?" Haruka used to be a hero for his kid self. He knew the man had been a shitty father and all that, but in basketball... The man was a legend. Together with his twin. Yet, he had won against Kyou that time and he believed he could win against Haruka, but… could he really?

"Excited?" She grinned, waving to her family members.

Aya won her races easily. She was the fastest girl in their year, after all. So no one was surprised by the outcome. Girls from the track and field club were enviously glaring at her; they had tried to recruit her, but she'd declined. Aya's club was basketball. And she would stay faithful to the boys for the whole three years. She'd already decided on that.

The boys' dashes were done in no time and soon the groups for the relay gathered on the track. The relay was the last one of the 'running' disciplines. And it had the most spectators. Parents, senpais, teachers… Some were whispering about Kiku. It was obvious from the hostile glares they shot the small girl. And they were not that far away from Kiku's parents and brother who'd come to watch; it didn't happen too often that their daughter volunteered to be a part of some competition.

Aya shot them a glare. "Idiots."

"Let's just win this." Ishii said decisively. After all the crap Kiku had been through, they owed her this victory. At least he felt that way. He wasn't sure what Aomine's reasons to do this were, but he couldn't care less. No one would belittle his friend.

"Tch, don't doubt that." Daiki glared at that group of vipers with disgust too. He disliked people like that. Whispering behind others' backs…

"I feel sick…" Kiku muttered, slowly shuffling towards her starting point. She wanted to run away and hide. Her parents were here! How embarrassing! She hated this sort of attention. Competitions. Running. Her stomach was doing turns and her knees felt weak. You'll fail. Spectacularly. Why have you agreed to this nonsense? But she knew why. She wanted to win.

Aya rubbed her back encouragingly. "Just breathe and focus on running. Everything else is a background hum. It doesn't matter. You'll be fine."

"I'll come last." She peeped.

"Even if, it's okay. We have your back." The redhead grinned.

And with the boys grinning behind her, Kiku felt they had a chance. It was the first time Kiku saw Aomine excited about something. She couldn't wrap her mind around it, but she was glad he was on her team. Because Daiki's excitement was giving off a scary vibe. Like he'd crush the opponent with pleasure. Combined with Aya… Kiku wondered what the other teams felt.

She closed her eyes and took a deep breath in, held it for a moment and exhaled. Think you're shooting an arrow. Breathe. She did it again. Her nerves subsided, or at least she could keep them in check for the time being.

The teacher called out.

The first runners crouched into ready positions. Ishii was standing right behind her, Aya and Daiki were at the side, out of the way.

"GO!"

Kiku sprinted forward a second later than everyone else. Damn! Immediately she was at the back of the group. She was panicking, but she forced herself to breathe. Put one foot in front of another as fast as she could. But not too fast to cause her to trip and fall. Just like she'd practiced with Aya.

However, this was different. Stress and nerves of being watched were shaking her very soul, sapping her energy enormously fast.

Go! She shouted at herself. But she was the last. Everyone was far ahead. She tripped. Aya shouted in encouragement. Just like at their practise. She couldn't make out the exact words, but the thought itself made her happy. And Kiku found her footing again.

Only a few meters to Ishii. You can do it! The number twos of the other teams were already a quarter of the track ahead.

She forced herself not to think about that. And then…

Kiku tripped and plummeted down, face first. She managed to put her hands forward to cushion the hard fall. Tears stung in her eyes. This was so her. So stupid!

"Get up and GO!"

"Finish it!"

"YOU CAN DO IT!" Wakamatsu shouted from somewhere within the crowd.

And she did. She had to. She owed it to herself.

The moment Ishii grabbed the baton and sprang forward, she bent forward retching, then catching her breath, letting her growing hair create a curtain that hid her face. This was embarrassing. Thankfully, she didn't puke, but she hoped no one saw that gag.

She finished it.

What does it matter; you were the last. Tortoise! They can't possibly manage that gap! She tried to blink the tears away. She felt so defeated. Despite her practises and all… She let them down. She tripped and fell. Her knees, elbows and palms were scraped and stinging, but she couldn't quite feel the pain. She was used to that by now.

A gentle touch on her back brought her back. She glanced at her redheaded best friend. Helpless. Like a drowning person that needed saving. Air. And she knew, she just knew Aya could provide her that necessary support. The redhead was spoiling her.

"You did great." Aya said genuinely, rubbing Kiku's back to ease her stomach. There was not a speck of teasing in her voice.

"T-that's why we're the last?"

"We'll catch up."

"How possibly could you?"

"Wait and watch." Aya winked at her. "Our order was not haphazard. Ishii will pull forward, I'll try to catch up, and if I won't succeed 100%, Daiki will. I believe in him. I'm sure he'll pull us through in the last dash."

"How can you be so optimistic?"

"Realistic."

"Why Aomine-san and not you?"

"Ah well, he has more wins in our races than me." She shrugged with a grin. "And he has longer legs."

"I fell on my face." Kiku looked down, mortified.

"So? Could happen to anyone. Though you should disinfect the scrapes later on."

"My father saw… Oh, god…"

"Will he scold you?"

"No." She bit her lip and glanced towards her family, not meeting their eyes. "But he is definitely disappointed in my poor performance."

"I don't think so." Aya exchanged smiles with Kiku's parents. The girl's mother mouthed a silent 'Thank you.' and Aya knew Kiku's parents were far from disappointed. "Go and rest a bit, Ishii's here any moment."

Kiku nodded and shuffled to change places with Aomine waiting at the side. She didn't dare meeting his eyes. To her utmost bewilderment the huge, scary boy tapped her shoulder, "you did well. Let us catch up now.", he muttered to her only, as he passed her by to stand next to Aya. She turned around to stare at him wide-eyed. Who was that? Where did that gentle tone come from? It wasn't pity, no. It was… acknowledgement? Respect? What on earth…

Aya grabbed the baton from Ishii and sprinted forward. The transition wasn't the smoothest, but it didn't fall out of her hand. She could do this. The fatigue from the previous dashes didn't matter. With her stamina and training regime, there was none. Not really. She never minded running, liked it even. The feeling of the ground beneath her feet, the sound of her heart, her breathing. It was calming. Enjoyable.

She was at the tail of the group. She pounded her feet harder, prolonged her steps. She would catch up. She would close the gap Ishii had started to close.

You have to catch up. The last one. Catch him! Get ahead of him! Come on! She spurred herself. She knew she could do it. The boy wasn't that far ahead.

A few meters.

A few more steps.

"Come on!" She heard Taiga cheer. She grinned, having him here wasn't bad at all. He made her feel lighter.

She caught the boy, ran by his side for a second, then got in front of him. Four more people ahead. And too little of the track to cover.

She wanted to take two more, three if she'd get lucky.

Two.

In the end, she managed to take two more.

"GO!" She shouted at Daiki as she handed him the baton. The way he grabbed it and took it from her so smoothly reassured her he got it. He could do it. He would do it.

Kiku and Ishii joined her once all the last runners were away from their starting points.

Aya watched Daiki, urged him forward with her eyes. Damn, he could run.

Running came easy to Daiki. He could reach his top speed in a step if necessary and he showed it now. Aya pulled them through as much as she could and he wouldn't fail her. He had only two runners ahead and the team, his team, everyone thought was going to lose had a real winning chance. He liked that fact. He liked that Kiku actually put in the effort and tried her best. It deserved the best reward she could get. He admired his woman for outrunning three people. It almost didn't provide enough challenge for him. But the remaining two were the best in the track and field club in their year. They were fast, and they had the lead.

Oh, come on, those idiots won't win against me. He thought and put more strength into his steps. When was the last time he was chasing after someone like this? Beginning of the second year in Teiko, maybe? It was too long ago. Still… he could remember. It filled his veins with adrenaline and forced him to do better, to go faster, to win. He had to win this. He just had to.

He didn't need cheering, but hearing Aya made him grin. He enjoyed it. Because she was encouraging him, but not doubting his victory.

"One down." He uttered as he got to second place. One to go.

The run was decided in the last twenty meters. The guy was good. Daiki had no idea what his name was, but he was good. He held onto the ace for quite some time. One step behind, one ahead. It was close. And the last meters were the hardest. None of them wanted to give up. Daiki had to win; he didn't lose and he wanted to do it for Aya and Kiku, and maybe even Ishii, whatever. The other boy was protecting his pride and reputation.

Both teams were shouting at them to win. Cheering, calling, encouraging.

Daiki had his girlfriend there though. With her arms reaching towards him. There was no friggin' way he'd come in as the second.

No. Way. In. Hell.

To his own surprise he accelerated and got three steps ahead of the other guy. That was when he knew he'd won.

And unlike the other guy, he came to a perfect halt the moment he crossed the finishing line and reached his team. No one else except Aya and him could perform such a change of pace.

His stormy eyes followed the guy who staggered a few more meters to stop. "Not as fast as he's believed to be, eh?" He wiped the sweat off his face with the hem of his t-shirt, showing off his abs. They won. The adrenaline from the race was slowly wearing off and a good feeling settled in his stomach. Then he impulsively ruffled Kiku's hair and grinned widely. "So, how does victory taste?"

"Eh?" Kiku blinked at him in surprise. Was he really genuinely happy about this? And how did victory taste? It was… Amazing. Warm. Awesome. It wasn't her own effort, but she won with a team in the discipline she most despised. She was a part of this. She'd contributed to this, a little, but she had. And it tasted so damn sweet. She averted her eyes, Aomine's excitement still frightened her a bit, but a happy smile settled on her lips. "W-we w-won." She stammered at first staring at her feet, and then she looked up and more firmly, she repeated: "We won!"

"'f course we did. Don't doubt us another time."

"Good save, that one…" Ishii patted his shoulder begrudgingly.

"Huh, wh–"

"Yeah, bitches! We won!" Aya exclaimed half in French, half in Japanese. She had no idea why it came out that way and she couldn't care less. This was the most amazing accomplishment of the day. She'd never doubted the outcome of that race, but still… It made her unbelievably happy. For Kiku. For showing everyone they could win with Kiku; that the little girl could put up one hell of a fight and help them win too. And being the cheerful, overly-energetic redhead, it was no surprise that she launched herself at all of them, with a wide grin pulling them all into a hug. Kiku was entrapped in the middle, Ishii wasn't sure how to react, but he somewhat awkwardly hugged them all too, and Daiki could tolerate it – for his woman. One of his arms slipped around Aya's waist naturally and he chuckled at her antics. It fitted the atmosphere well. And he didn't actually mind; it kind of stopped him from snapping at Ishii and ruining the moment with his temper.

It would be a shame if he'd ruined it. They won despite the odds. It was one hell of a reason to be happy about it. Even for the ace of the generation of the miracles who was winning at almost everything. He hadn't competed for himself this time.

Kiku would pass the P.E. just fine. In addition, the class 1-3 had won almost all the races, which was a great accomplishment for the class too.

"Huh, so it wasn't all deimatic show off and big words… You can actually run." Haruka's voice stopped him on his way to help Satsuki.

The man's holier-than-thou tone and his posture, lazily leaning against a wall, irritated him. He had no idea what 'deimatic' meant and he was sure Haruka used it precisely because of that, but it didn't matter. Daiki could grasp the concept pretty well. Don't get angry. He clenched his fists and smirked. "Tch, surprising, eh? But the real question is: could you keep up, old man?"

That snarky question made Haruka straighten up to his full height, slightly taller than Daiki. "What?!" Father's ego had been officially poked and challenged.

"Didn't think so." Daiki continued, enjoying his upper hand for a second. The man's personality was quite similar to Taiga's, and he already knew how to provoke him.

But Haruka wouldn't let his temper take the better of him. He snorted at his childish feeling of not wanting to lose. Really, he hadn't felt it in ages. "We'll see about that. I was told I could challenge you later on."

Daiki stared at him. Those red eyes were so intense. He could definitely see the family resemblance there and he realised he wouldn't provoke the man further than this. "For a right price, yeah. It won't be cheap though…"

"Someone's cocky. Very well, I'll pay my share to the club, but don't think you'll get out of it without offering me a counter-price." Haruka smirked. "That'd be unfair."

"What do you mean?"

"If you lose, I don't want to see your face in my house for a month at least and you will not take Aya to that seminar of yours."

"That's up to her."

"Is it? I'm sure you can come up with a way to leave her at home." If only Daiki started doubting himself, maybe it'd make up for his age. Haruka knew his weaknesses in comparison to Daiki. They were about equal, he'd say. Daiki's natural agility, speed, change of pace and understanding of the game made up for years of Haruka's experience. But he hadn't really practised or played for years now and Kyou had praised the kid a lot. It was a 50/50 chance, and if Haruka could tip it in his favour, he would do it. "If you lose, that is."

The man got him. But it had the opposite effect of what Haruka had intended. Daiki was determined to win no matter what. He wouldn't sacrifice his weekend with Aya. "Tch, I don't lose."

"Don't disappoint me, boy."

He narrowed his eyes at him. "Yeah, yeah." He waved his hand as he moved towards Satsuki, who he spotted struggling with water bottles and boxes of something. He should hurry to help her before she'd break whatever was in it. "The only one, who can beat me, is me." He hummed over the shoulder and ran off.

"Hmmm…. Maybe I shouldn't have used Aya..." Haruka muttered and rubbed the back of his head. "But what else would I use?" Nothing? Deep down, a part of him just wanted to play a good game once again. And that part was crawling out to the surface. Why not? You still love the game, you old fart.

"So, can I keep the costume?" Kano asked with a broad smile after he finally stopped and theatrically bowed after winning the funky obstacle race. He had also tried to hug everyone, which resulted in an epic chase game where everyone tried to avoid being hugged by the mud monster.

Yes, Kano was covered in mud (he had fallen into the mud pool during the race) and flour (from digging out sweets), but the pirate costume he'd randomly picked up fitted him like a glove. It looked cool and he really wanted to keep it for some future occasion. It usually wasn't permitted, but he hoped he'd get an exception. The mud and flour could be washed out after all.

"Well, I'm not sure you deserve it after that chase, Kano-kun." Ueda-sensei sighed, looking Kano up and down. The boy was in his class. The sensei knew that the basketball gang could be a handful if they wanted to, but they were good kids. And he came to like them all.

"Pretty please!" He made puppy eyes at the teacher. "The chase was just for fun! You laughed too!"

The teacher frowned and sighed again. He indeed had laughed at the teens. "Fine, it'll be an exception, but don't expect it next year."

"Yes!" He jumped up and down and ran towards his friend. "Aya-chan! I get to keeeeeep it! I told ya!"

The redhead laughed and avoided another hug.

"Tch, hands off my woman!" Daiki grumbled at Kano, grabbing him by the collar in a way that Kano couldn't fight back or hug him instead and dragging him towards outside sinks. There was a hose Daiki knew about and he was fully determined to give Kano a cold shower like he'd do with his dogs.

She shook her head at the boys' behaviour and then she grinned at the best homeroom teacher they could've asked for, who was sighing again and frowning at the two. "Don't frown so much, sensei! You'll get wrinkles."

"They are unbelievable." He turned on his heel to ignore his students. He caught Katsunori's sympathetic look as he was passing by the coach and rolled his eyes. "How do you handle the whole team of that?"

"Just like you handle the whole class." Katsunori shrugged. "The team at least has one purpose, the class, however…"

"That's why you refused to be a homeroom teacher?"

"Like I don't have enough trouble."

"…"

"Don't worry; you handle them way better than I would." He patted his younger colleague's shoulder. "All I heard about you was praise."

A small smile graced Ueda-sensei's face. That was worth all the effort he put into his work and all the trouble the teens gave him.

The tug of war was only for boys, so the girls stayed at a side, watching and cheering for their classrooms. This and the pole toppling were the last disciplines that day. It was already past lunch, and the clubs should've already started their presentations, but time slips happened. And since everyone seemed to be enjoying this day in school without studying no one minded it.

"I forgot how long these events can get." Haruka sighed heavily as he leaned against a wall, watching the discipline from a higher ground.

"Can't wait for your little match?" Katsunori mocked and took a sip from a fancy flask he always had on him during occasions such as these. He hated school events. He was a good teacher; he could handle students in classes, when they abided school rules, but sports day or any other such events, gave an excuse to some unruliness. And it took away his free day. That was enough to make him grumpy.

But that little match interested him. With that in mind he offered the flask to Haruka, who raised an eyebrow at him. "Really?"

"I wish." He sighed wistfully. "It's coffee… Not like we teachers can drink during the job. But I like the flask."

"Makes you think of what could've been in it if you weren't at school?" With a smirk Haruka took the offering. As a businessman he did not say NO to a coffee… or alcohol. Ever.

"M-hm." He hummed, watching the boys pulling at the rope. He had a pretty good idea that Aomine's class would win. Almost all the boys from that class were in sport clubs and they had some real muscle. Besides, his ace didn't lose. Even if they used him as the anchor and were up against Oyama's class which wasn't much weaker. "Who do you think will win that one?"

"It better be Aomine… Tch, I don't like that boy." He frowned at Daiki and the frown deepened when he saw the way Aya was looking at him. "Couldn't you at least spike that coffee with whiskey a bit?" He complained.

Corner of Katsunori's mouth curled up into a small smile. "Having a hard time watching your daughter watching her boyfriend?"

"They're too young for such a bond." He grumbled irritably.

"U-huh, in other words, you find him interesting." He knew better. Maybe he hadn't been in contact with Haruka for years, but it seemed the man was bouncing back to his old self; and that hadn't changed in the slightest.

"Irritating."

"Challenging."

"Rude."

"Just right for her."

"M-hm." He nodded absent-mindedly when Daiki's team got an advantage and was about to pull the other team over the line to their side. "What? No!" he snapped once he realised what he'd agreed on. "No way!"

His protests were drowned in happy cheers of Aya's classmates and angry complaints of the losing ones. When Aya kissed Daiki's cheek in the heat of the moment and her happiness, Haruka just let out an angry: "Hey!" He did not want to witness it, even though he was sure the two did much more than just that.

After a short ten minute break to set everything up, the pole toppling started. It was another discipline solely for boys.

"What the hell is that?!" Aya blinked with her mouth hanging open, when they were watching the third years, who were first on the list for this. The pole looked like a tree trunk. Not too wide, but it was twice as tall as the tallest of them. The boys from one class were tightly surrounding it, creating a barrier that looked like a human shield from all sides, the others were getting ready to do… what? "Really, what is this, Daiki?"

"Bo-taoshi. Adapted for us…" He said with a smirk, feeling smug there was something Aya didn't know.

"Uuuh… Explain this to me, because this… this looks weird!"

"Look, Imayoshi's class is guarding that pole standing upright in the middle. The others are the attackers, they have to take it down, topple it. Or get it into the 30 angle. The whole fight takes 3 minutes. And both teams have the same number of guys."

"Why are they all shirtless?"

"To keep pulling and tearing the clothes off to minimum? I guess. Or maybe to please the girls? Who knows?" He shrugged. "But if it's to please you, Sweetheart, I don't mind it at all."

That tone made her heart skip a beat. She stared at his torso, sadly covered with his t-shirt, then swiftly looked away with the faintest blush and shook her head. She really wanted to see him shirtless. Right now if possible. Get a grip! She couldn't wait until her class's turn.

He smirked at her reaction contently and reverted his attention back to the competition in front of them. "Here they come."

"They're not–"

"Oh, they are."

With a loud battle cry the attackers charged and rammed into the guardians of the pole savagely. That was a starter for an all out fight between the boys. It was a mess. Ones were trying to keep the pole upright; the others were lunging over them to tear it to the ground.

"That's insane!" Aya exclaimed with her eyes wide.

"That's fun." Daiki grinned widely; he couldn't wait for his turn. He hoped they'd be attackers. "Normally there'd be a rider on top of the pole, who would lean in the opposite direction of the direction to which the pole is being tipped. But it's considered too dangerous during school festivals…" He sighed. "I guess the guy on top would be the most annoying defender."

"Ouch!" She cringed, when one of the guys got hit in the face.

"Serves him right!" Daiki corrected her.

"Of course you enjoy this."

He raised an eyebrow at her. "Tell me you wouldn't join the group fight like this."

"…" She stared at it. Arms and legs were tangled. She had a hard time saying who was guarding and who was attacking. Sure, they wore headbands in different colours to distinguish the teams, but still. Then she thought back to when she, Taiga and her cousins had fought for the best spots in piles of hay, or something… Or fights with Kouta. It had almost certainly looked like this. "Definitely would."

"Knew it!"

"But! Don't get injured." She warned him.

"I wouldn't mind you nursing me." He teased.

"Me? More like Satsuki, after she'd kill you for injuring yourself. Besides, you wouldn't get me into the infirmary."

"Am I not the bait enough for you?"

"Aomine Daiki, do not test me." She could feel her cheeks heating up. He was totally making fun of her, and she didn't mind. It was actually funny.

He cackled at her cute blush. "I don't plan to get injured by any of the idiots. Don't worry." He ruffled her hair, ruining her loose braid. "I have a match planned after this. A one I'm going to win. For a good price too."

She glanced at him suspiciously and tried to fix her hair. "Did my father catch you somewhere alone?"

"Does it matter? Maybe it's your bro, or maybe that driver, or whoever. Will you bet on the person?"

"I bet Haruka. Taiga was with me."

"Not all the time." He shrugged. He had a little talk with Taiga, a little challenge too, but he doubted the redhead would actually get to play. If he would, so be it, if not, they'd have to wait until some real match again.

"Urgh, whatever, I think it's Haruka. You do know that the price, whatever it is, is for the club and not you, right?"

Not really, Sweetheart… My price is my own. He thought, but refused to tell her about the little 'negotiation' with Haruka. Instead, he shrugged with an excited, almost dangerous look in his eyes. "So? It means I can break another couple of hoops."

"Unbelievable." She sighed.

"Why? Gods why?" Naito reached towards the heavens. "Why is it you guys? And why are you attacking?! We don't stand a chance!"

"Weaklings." Daiki cackled.

"Not our fault you're in the class for all the smarty pants." Kano added with a smirk, half hiding behind Ishii. After the cold shower he'd received from Daiki, he was keeping a safe distance from the ace.

"Somewhere none of you could ever be, eh?"

"Hey! Not true! We're not stupid. And the girls are crazy smart too!" He pointed at Aya and Satsuki standing right at the edge of the competition area.

"Yet, they're still in the class with you."

"Oh… right… Why is that?! They should be both in your class!"

"And who do you think would help you study then, eh?" Naito raised his eyebrow mockingly. He hated when Kano ran to him pleading for help with math. He hated when anyone came to him for help with studying; the only exception being Ishii, because Ishii actually understood things quickly and he was scary. "Certainly not me."

"But their grades are in the top ten of the year!" Kano protested vehemently. Really, he was curious. How come those two weren't in the special class?

"Not better than mine though."

"BUT–"

"We chose to be among other common folks!" Satsuki giggled, interrupting whatever Kano wanted to say. The girls were there to cheer and see properly and so they heard everything.

"But your grades…" He finished.

"Uuuuh… that's probably luck." Aya shrugged. "I don't have the time to study as much as Naito here, right? Naturally, he is better. And more math? No thank you."

"Oh, there's that…" Kano hummed, as if for the first time realising the class 1-5 had a slightly different curriculum. And thus was evaluated a bit differently. Only the standardised tests could be compared with the rest of them.

"Yes, genius, there's that. And you also choose the class if you're good enough to keep up with it." Naito rolled his eyes. His class wasn't that difficult, but it had a different curriculum. It was more demanding; they got more homework, more technical subjects. It was a special class for, well, smart kids. It was oriented on science, math, physics. He loved those subjects, but it wasn't for everyone. "No way would you, muscle brains, keep up with our math homework, urgh, no way. Avoid that at all costs." He teased. But sadly, he knew that as smart as his classmates were, they didn't have much muscle. Almost none of them were in sport clubs or did anything sport related except P.E. classes; if you didn't count shogi, go and chess as sports. The question now was, could they win? Nope, not a chance…

"Hey! Who do you call muscle brains, you little maggot?!" Ishii narrowed his eyes with his hands on his hips. If Naito teased Kano, fine, but calling him a muscle brain. No, mister!

"Pardon me? I am not a little maggot!" He defended himself. Ishii was scary when towering over him like this, but Naito just couldn't keep his mouth shut. "In this situation, it's not even an insult! Duh… Aya-chan has more muscle than some of those guys…"

"Just some?" She raised an eyebrow and laughed, observing the boys from class 1-5. Majority of them looked way too skinny for Aya's tastes.

"Okay, maybe more than some…" Naito admitted. He had seen her practise with them, her crazy stunts and dancing routines.

"Are they even fed properly?" The redhead wondered.

"I doubt that…" Daiki commented, following her gaze. He was disappointed. He'd rather face Oyama's class 1-2 as a rematch of the tug of war...

A sharp sound of the whistle took everyone's attention. It was a signal to take t-shirts off and get in positions.

"Finally!" He smirked and swiftly pulled the t-shirt over his head, throwing it to Aya. "Mind watching over it?"

"Hmm… Are you sure you'll get it back?"

He held her eyes for a moment. "I don't care, Sweetheart. You decide." He grinned and turned to go get a red headband he needed to have as one of the attackers.

She shook her head and threw the fabric over her shoulder, so she could free her hands.

"Wha-ft 'n eg-o." Taiga said from behind her, with his mouth full.

"Got what you wanted, I see." She chuckled, ignoring the slight jab.

"M-hm." He hummed, stuffing his cheeks with grilled teriyaki chicken skewers. It took him a while to find it. And he loved it. "Wha-fts…" he gulped his mouthful, "…what's up with him?"

"Hm?" She followed his gaze all the way to Sakurai, who was nervously fidgeting at the side. She shrugged. "Dunno, he said he doesn't like this event…"

Sakurai really didn't like this event. Just like he didn't like being half-naked in front of the whole school and unknown parents. And this was the only discipline all the boys had to participate in, unless they had some serious issues. Sure, both teams had to have the same number of boys so some might stand by, usually the weakest ones, but class 1-3 and 1-5 had the exactly same number of boys, so no one could slack off. This arrangement made him think the matches weren't as 'random' as the teachers said them to be.

He didn't understand how easily Aomine could take off his t-shirt and throw it to Aya. The ace didn't seem to have a single worry in the world, except choosing his targets (the strongest looking boys) for the attack. He, on the other hand, wouldn't feel confident even if he had a girlfriend, which he hadn't. He felt just as weak as the other guys looked. There were a few exceptions, but the majority of guys in the class 1-5 were lanky and skinny. He didn't feel like attacking those guys.

"What's up, Ryou?"

"Ah, sorry." He got startled at Aomine's husky voice so close behind him. He had no idea the ace was noticing him in any way. He looked down at the red headband in his hand. How stupid was this thing? "I don't want to do this. It's not fair…"

The ace tied the headband around his forehead. "So you suggest we give up and let them win because they look weak?" He asked nonchalantly.

"Hm? N-no, well… I don't know. Sorry. I just don't like this…"

"We're not killing them; we're just taking the pole. Don't sweat it. If you're too scared, don't get into the mess. … it's not like we can't lose the class rep and a few more of you weaklings on our side in the process." He provoked a bit.

Sakurai frowned. He was scaredy, he knew. But he also hated to lose. And he most certainly wasn't a weakling like the class rep. So once provoked like this… He tied the headband around his forehead too and pouted. "I'm not a weakling."

"So you say." Daiki smirked.

"Ready!" Yoshioka-sensei shouted and then clapped once. "GO!"

And the class 1-3 charged as one man against the poor mass of the boys from class 1-5, who seemed like they'd rather drop the pole and run than fight. But they were the weakest. They had the least points from all the first year classes and if they lost this too, which they most likely would, they'd get additional P.E. classes during Saturdays for 8 weeks, or who knew how long… So they stood their ground when the heavy guys from sport clubs rammed into them.

"This is really an insane sport." Aya watched with amusement as Kano launched himself over the heads of the defenders rockstar-style and the defenders didn't step aside to let him hit the ground.

"I wouldn't catch him." Taiga commented. It was amusing; the poses, the attacks, the expressions, the mess. It was savage fun, the kind he'd enjoy. "Can't wait for our own sports festival…"

"You have it next week, right?" Satsuki asked curiously.

"Yeah, thankfully, my dear sister promised to go with you to middle schools' final league?"

The pinkette grinned. "No one says we have to watch all the matches. I think you can get a schedule from Riko-chan, right?"

"Yeah, sure…" Aya nodded.

"She isn't listening." Taiga patted Satsuki's shoulder in compassion. He knew that face, his sister was seeing something she liked very much, thus her attention was far away from them.

"Oh… Right." She chuckled, noting what exactly caught Aya's eyes.

The redhead was fixed on Daiki, who was struggling to get his way to the pole. Maybe he was strong, but when many scrawny guys piled up, even he had a problem. And it gave her great views. Her man's body was just perfect. Those abs, those pectorals and back muscles. That Adonis's belt. Aya was almost drooling over her man. Two weeks of not touching all that… Her fingers were itching to caress all that again.

That look on Aya's face was priceless. "M-hm. Nothing better to please girls' eyes. Wouldn't you agree?" Satsuki giggled, nudging Aya with her elbow.

She sighed in pleasure. "100%." Then she turned to the pinkette. "You were saying?"

"Schedule of his," she pointed her thumb at Taiga, "sport festival. From Riko. Get it."

"Sure. Consider it done." Aya waved her hand in a dismissive gesture. "Now let me enjoy the view." And her attention was back on struggling boys and Daiki in particular. She really wouldn't mind trying this sport herself. Daiki looked like he was totally enjoying this.

He found a surprising ally in Nishioka from Judo club. It wasn't as difficult as it could've been, but it was still a struggle to get to the damn pole. Strangely, the two found a common rhythm and fought their way through the defenders. With a little help of some judo moves. Nishioka was surprised that Daiki knew something like that. And in a way the teachers wouldn't notice it much. Not like they could see what was really happening in the mess. In short, the two of them were like battering rams clearing the path and they got to the pole first to tip it. But they toppled it over with too much force, as the other guys pushed them from behind. In that moment, the defenders gave up on struggling and let go. The pole wasn't light at all and that forceful thrust it turned into a nasty falling object everyone wanted to avoid. Suddenly, everyone tried to get out of the way of that thing. That short-lived panic only caused greater chaos. Some of the boys fell down, instinctively pulling the others down too and just barely avoided the wood. Daiki and Nishioka stumbled forward, tripping over the guys on the ground and fell themselves.

"Good fight." Nishioka nodded to Daiki and got up with a grunt; he hit his knee in a strange way and hoped it was nothing serious. He offered a hand to Daiki.

"Yeah, what a surprise." The ace nodded back, but ignored the friendly gesture. It seemed weird. He'd never talked with this guy before.

Then the whistle announced the end of the match, breaking the awkward atmosphere between the boys. And the winner. "Victory goes to the class 1-3!" Yoshioka-sensei announced. "Now we will count the overall points. We will gather in 20 minutes to announce the winners of each year."

"Ossu!" The students responded collectively. They were all curious about the prizes.

The rest of the guys slowly got up with groans. Majority of them had some scratches, bruises, but nothing serious. Thankfully. Then they took the pole and went to stuff it back to wherever it came from.

"Not injured." Daiki smirked as he re-joined the girls. "See? Just scratched a bit." With hands on his hips he made a 360turn to show off there was no injury.

There were scratches on Daiki's forearms and back, and Taiga had a biting comment on his tongue when he noticed a bite mark on his biceps. "Did someone seriously bite you?!" He asked in disbelief. 'No biting' was a common rule in manly fights and brawls.

"Tche, I can't believe it either. Urgh. Disgusting." He shuddered in disgust.

"At least he didn't break skin. Who was it anyway?" Aya traced the mark with her finger. She was a girl and she wouldn't bite during a competition. It was playing dirty in her opinion. At least in sports and family fights.

"Don't know, don't care, and don't want to know, or I'll knock his teeth out. That was a dirty play." He sighed and shook it off like a dog. "Care to clean the scratches for me, Sweetheart?" He asked, reaching for his t-shirt.

"A-a." She hid his t-shirt behind her back. "If I'm cleaning the scratches, I'm keeping the t-shirt for a little longer."

"Are you sure it's a good idea?" He already knew that hungry look in her eyes, loved it and appreciated it. He wanted to pull her into some empty classroom or changing room and make out.

"Go find a room." Taiga groaned.

"Go find a room you two." Naito rolled his eyes as he passed by with a deep frown, echoing Taiga. He really wasn't looking forward to the additional P.E. classes.

"Envious?" Daiki asked cockily. But Naito ignored him and Taiga made a disgusted sound.

"Like your room?" She teased her brother. "I might not change the sheets afterward though."

"Eeeew! Disgusting."

She laughed at Taiga and grabbed Daiki's hand, pulling him towards the changing rooms. She was still in possession of his t-shirt and there were a few scratches she should clean. And get a touch and a kiss or two out of it. He had been provoking her with those abs for a while now.

"What…?" He looked at her curiously, but didn't struggle. Aya kidnapping him = not something he'd fight.

"We do have fifteen minutes." She winked at him.

A wolfish grin curled his lips. A few kisses he would definitely steal and give. "Oh, we do."

The announcements were fast and simple. Each year had a winner. From the first years it was Aya's class 1-3, from the second years it was Wakamatsu's and Tada's class 2-2 and from the third years it was Yamaoka's class 3-4. The winners got a four day ski trip right after the winter break, plus the students earned credits based on their individual performance in the disciplines they participated in. The second place classes got 5 entrances to a nearby swimming pool for each student. And the third place got a one day skipasses to the closest ski resort they could use in the upcoming season. And the classes in the last place got additional P.E. classes for 8 weeks on Saturdays to get better. It wasn't the luckiest choice and it wasn't meant as a punishment, but the teachers had to motivate them somehow. Not everyone was happy about it, not everyone would use it, for whatever reasons, but those were the best options.

Afterwards, the students slowly wandered to their clubs and gyms, or just hung out in groups, talking and waiting for the evening bonfire and dinner prepared by the teachers.

"I'd rather go to the pool than on a skiing trip." Aya sighed.

"Wanna trade?" Satsuki asked.

Daiki tapped the pinkette's forehead. "You can't trade that, smarty." Then he looked at Aya, "I'd rather take the pool too, but a trip with you? Hell yeah."

"Yeah, that's the highlight." She chuckled and then asked curiously: "Can you ski?"

No, he couldn't. He's never stood on those things in his life. Sun and ocean were much more appealing to him than winter sports. "Can you?" He asked instead of answering.

"I can get down a slope safely." She shrugged. Grandfather Cedric and her uncles and aunts taught her how to ski when she used to spend winter breaks in France. They usually went out to Lac Blanc ski resort, which was about 45 minutes from their estate. Despite her hate for the cold, they always managed to provoke her into going with everyone and learn.

"Tch… That's more than I can."

"Really? You'll certainly get better. I guess that's partly a point of this whole trip."

Satsuki asked curiously. "Can Taiga-kun ski too?"

"He is a board person. Never stood on skis and never will. When hell freezes over." She imitated Taiga's voice poorly. "And where did he wander off to?" She asked, looking around as if for the first time realising his absence.

Satsuki shrugged. "Went somewhere with Derek-san…"

"Ah, whatever." They didn't need to be together all the time. "Do you ski?"

"Mhm." The pinkette smiled. "I go with father for a few weekends during the winter. It's fun. Except that we don't spend that much time together, so I'm happy for it."

"That's–"

"Making plans for the trip already?" Imayoshi weaseled his way through the groups of people to the three vital members of his team, who were still missing in the gym.

"Tch, we're just happy you didn't win the first prize."

"I got the second." The captain smirked. "Maybe we'll bump into each other by the pool, Momoi-san." Satsuki paled. She had to find someone to whom she could pass her prize. Suddenly, she didn't want it. Imayoshi could grasp the concept of Satsuki's thoughts and his bullying side of personality was jumping up and down in joy. "I actually came to fetch you. You're needed in our gym. Apparently you challenged Kagami Haruka?"

"He did." Daiki shrugged. "And I'll win."

He sized the ace up and down. Today was full of surprises and the captain wasn't sure how to process it. The whole team was excited that the Kagami Haruka came to check them out. It was genuinely interesting to meet the man and he could definitely see a family resemblance with the twins. Even so, he'd imagined Haruka to be more… distant, arrogant, more bossy… Well, he was interested how the former member of the national team, NBA team too, would face defeat from a teenager. At least he prayed Aomine would win.

"You'd better, Aomine, you'd better." He hummed.

"Huh…" Daiki was surprised when they arrived at the gym and looked around. There were a lot of people. It wasn't packed, but it was more crowded than usual.

The afternoon light warmed up the gym. Aya standing beside him looked around too, hummed in content and slipped her hand into his, smiling warmly. The sound of balls, squeaking of the shoes, excited chattering; it felt different from the usual; cosy and pleasant, like an enjoyable family afternoon in the warm weather of mid-autumn. She was happy, and he could understand why. He caressed the back of her palm with his thumb in response, not sure how to feel about it himself. It was nice, but quite strange and he wasn't used to it.

Taiga and Derek were playing a lazy one on one game on half a court. Derek wasn't good at all, but he was trying and none of the two was taking it seriously. The basketball team was doing their best entertaining those who came to check out the club; schoolmates, guests, even some parents were eager to try shooting some baskets.

Katsunori and Haruka were chatting in one corner, overseeing everything going on. Despite their formal, yet not too formal, clothes they fitted into the gym. Haruka was now wearing basketball shoes, but he hadn't changed his clothes. He was still wearing comfortable, fitting jeans and a white shirt with rolled up sleeves and loose collar. Compared to Katsunori, Haruka looked bigger, stronger. The muscles on his forearms stood out. He was relaxed and confident. Like the gym was a place at which he felt 100% at home. And he actually did. Just how many years had he spent practising in a gym so similar to this one? More years than Daiki lived.

Seeing Haruka like this surprised him. Daiki never thought he'd see that. Was that really the businessman who hurt Aya so much? At this moment he looked friendly, approachable, almost humble… It was like this opponent was different from the one that had challenged him. He would never admit it, but it unsettled him. It made him wary of Haruka so much more than before.

"Wow, haven't seen that in years…"

"What do you mean, Aya-chan?" Imayoshi asked curiously.

She cocked her chin in Haruka's direction. "That posture, expression… it brings back memories." It'd been years since she'd seen him playing basketball, or being in a gym. But it hadn't changed. It was like seeing the basketball player, not the business man. And she'd always loved the basketball player more. He was honest and full of love, joy and appreciation, excitement. This wasn't the father, this was daddy.

"Is that good or bad?" Daiki asked.

"… I don't know. But don't underestimate him when he's like this. He won't underestimate you."

He nodded. He certainly wasn't underestimating his childhood hero. He just believed he'd win against him.

Then she realised she didn't want to discourage Daiki, or make him doubt himself – though she believed he would never do that. "Oh, but I'm betting on you today, Daiki." She said swiftly.

He raised an eyebrow. "Of course you are. You don't want to lose, do you?"

"Someone's too sure." Imayoshi teased.

"The only one who can beat him, is him, right?" Aya chuckled and pulled Daiki towards Haruka.

Katsunori noticed them first and then Haruka turned to them. "Oh, the weasel is back." He looked at Imayoshi and then the rest, his eyes lingering on Aya's and Daiki's intertwined fingers. He decided to ignore the unpleasant feeling bubbling inside of him and opted to provoke Daiki a bit. "I hope you're ready, kid."

"Are you?"

He snorted. The teenager was unbelievably cocky, yet he could feel it wasn't baseless. Daiki was certainly better than Taiga and Haruka wanted to know just how much better. "Any time." He walked towards Taiga and Derek. "Would you mind?"

"Ah... uhm… Here you go." Derek threw the ball to his boss. He cringed at his accent, but Taiga gave him thumbs up, which meant he said it right. Japanese was so difficult for him to learn and understand. All the different levels of politeness and so different sentence structure from what he was used to… But he was determined to conquer it.

"Thanks." Then he held Taiga's gaze. "Watch carefully."

The redhead nodded. He'd played with Haruka only once, at their grandparents. He had scored the first few times, stopped Haruka once or twice too, but then Haruka got a hang of it and the game turned in his favour. Having a pro for a father was priceless. The man could switch styles as he pleased. Taiga could learn so much. And now, Haruka was giving him a chance to observe Daiki closely. He wouldn't miss the opportunity.

"Tch…" Daiki stepped into their little half-court. With Taiga watching, he wanted to hold back, then again, it was Kagami Haruka and he wasn't sure he could afford to hold back. He didn't like the situation. Stop thinking and just focus on the game.

He caught a pass from Haruka. The sheer strength was admirable. It could almost equal one of Murasakibara's passes, when he wanted to be mean. "You sure?"

"Mhm." He hummed and lowered down into a guarding position. "You attack first. I'm a bit rusty." He admitted with a smirk and watched Daiki intently. Those red eyes created quite a pressure. "Don't forget our deal."

"I'll win." Daiki said, dribbling the ball and lowering down as well. He took a deep breath, to clear his mind of any unnecessary thoughts. He couldn't get scared; he couldn't get stressed or pressured. He was the one applying pressure. Focus.

"I want a clear game. No fouls." Katsunori said, coming closer to them.

"Yeah, yeah," Haruka waved his hand absently. "You're like a hawk, Katsu. I remember. Just start it already."

Daiki exhaled. And his whole demeanour changed, oozing confidence and power. The hair at the back of Haruka's neck stood up in alert and his smirk widened. This was going to be interesting. He loved one-on-ones, it allowed players to be themselves, to play their best. To show their true, individual talents and skills. Their strengths. No strategy, no complying with the team. He loved it. His old motto used to be: 'Play to win, but win for the team and don't forget to have fun.' And this was the fun part.

"Go!" Katsunori clapped his hands as a signal for the beginning of the game.

At that very second Daiki sprung forward in his top speed, faking right, then slipping past Haruka's guard from the left, like he wasn't even there and dunked.

That took Haruka by surprise. Daiki was fast and dunked. Given the boy's height it should've been expected, yet not many teenagers or younger players could do that. And he hadn't expected such an immediate acceleration to top speed. And those moves… No wonders Taiga couldn't keep up. Players like Daiki were very difficult, almost impossible to handle. Unless you played similarly.

The older man did, however, manage to chase and jump up, but it was a second too late. He knew he was slower than Daiki. But he had tons of experience and he wasn't fazed by losing the first point of their 5 point game.

"Impressive." Haruka said and rubbed the back of his neck, it might take a while until he'd get used to it. Until he'd manage to pull out that nature out of himself. The one that could equal Daiki. It had been dormant for way too long.

"Still think you have a chance?" Daiki cocked his head to a side, but the fact that Haruka had managed to chase after him was impressive in itself. And Haruka's praise made him feel uneasy, like the man knew something he didn't. He'd expected mockery, not praise.

"Who knows? We'll see." He picked up the ball and got ready for his attack.

He dribbled at a slower pace, but ever so slightly the rhythm of his dribbling changed. Daiki was standing opposite him in a completely relaxed stance, focused on him and the ball, waiting for a chance to steal or react to any of his movements. He indicated he'd go to the left. Daiki stepped that way, but Haruka passed the ball to his other hand and tried the other side. But Daiki reacted and stepped in front of him again.

They kept dancing like this for a short while, Haruka trying to trick Daiki, and Daiki trying to decipher the tricks. Majority was out of the book tricks he could easily read, but it didn't feel right. Something was off, out of place. And the changing pace of Haruka's dribbling didn't make it easy to steal either. Out of nowhere, Haruka jumped backwards into a fade away and shot. Daiki leapt up in a last second, nearly missing the ball, but he touched it and it spiralled out of the hoop.

The next round, Daiki managed to score again, after another short chase-around with Haruka. Daiki's moves were unpredictable, the opponent needed to react. And so far no one had that reaction time. Except Kise, but the guy lost anyway. He doubted Haruka would get used to it, yet a part of him hoped he would. He didn't want to win that easily.

In the fourth round, he stole from Haruka, barely, and it slowed him down as the ball almost slipped from his hand. Tch, that changing rhythm of his… He made his jump late because of that. And with a late jump, Haruka stopped his shot. The man was bulkier and a bit taller too.

In the fifth round, Daiki didn't feel like playing around and threw one in just like that. Like he'd done in the match against Kise. It had no form, no preparation movements, nothing. Just a lazy one-hand throw from the half line, which made it in.

It was 3-0 for Daiki, who was trying to play his usual way, but not overdo it. The redhead didn't need to see everything. But 3-0 meant he was starting to get bored and disappointed. He'd expected more from Haruka. Yes, haruka's styla was interesting, but nothing too challenging.

"Hmph, what a rude shot." Haruka commented calmly. Little did Daiki know that he'd shown only scraps of his abilities and skills. He needed to get used to Daiki's style. He didn't need to hurry anywhere. But it was about time he scored one too. He took a breath and exhaled, calming his senses, urging his body to remember, to do what it once used to do easily. "Well, let's try again, boy." He hummed confidently.

And suddenly, Daiki felt like he was facing someone else. Haruka's by the book style he'd been showing so far changed. To a streetball. To a tricky, hard to read, teasing moves. What the… The older man was slower, couldn't jump as high, but he had moves. Unbelievable reservoir of moves and skills. When Daiki felt he got him, Haruka weaselled away. It was like a game of chase. And when Haruka made a shot, Daiki didn't react. He couldn't. He didn't see it coming. It was too fast. Or rather, there was no transition movement. Nothing that indicated Haruka would take a shot.

"Tche." It was frustrating. But he had to focus. This was an opponent he couldn't underestimate. This definitely wouldn't be an easy win. And he was happy about that.

"Was about time." The old player ran fingers through his hair, combing back the strands that fell into his eyes and wiped sweat off his forehead. The jeans weren't comfortable enough; he felt too hot and was sweating too much in them. Daiki was making him run around much more than Taiga. "Can you stop the next?" Haruka challenged him.

No, he couldn't. He even got the ball stolen from him. And the score was soon 3-2. But he stopped the next attempt and scored himself. 4-2.

Then 4-3.

Haruka barely missed when he was about to equal it. His aim was rusty just as much as his knees. But he hated to lose. He had his pride. And he really didn't want Aya to go for that trip. He was still her father; he didn't like the idea of his daughter dating this guy. But he could understand what she loved about the boy.

The longer they played, the more focused Daiki was. Grinning here and there. Haruka had a feeling the boy was under-challenged and too talented, too skilled for his own good. As a seasoned veteran, a former ace, a team's captain, he could see all that from Daiki's plays. He could also see the hours and hours of hard work that must've been put into achieving that level of skill. The boy wasn't trying to save energy at all. On the contrary, he was using excessive movements to trick. Many might say it was unnecessary, but it worked. Daiki's games were confident, fast, tricky, bold, relying solely on himself, showing off and trying to impress and degrade, frighten the opponent. Daiki wasn't underestimating him, but he made it clear he felt superior. And maybe, at the moment he was. Haruka was aware of his age and weaknesses arising from that.

"Is Aomine having a hard time?" Taiga asked in disbelief. He was also surprised by Haruka's changes in the style he used throughout the game. As if his father never went all out when playing with him, yet, but for some reason, he was showing all that to Daiki. Taiga felt annoyed and jealous. Was he that much worse? Was there really such a gap between him and the cocky ace? He didn't want to believe that.

"I think so…" Aya was surprised too; she believed Haruka would be much rustier than this. "There aren't many players with a style similar to Daiki's in the official matches. So he doesn't usually have to face that."

Taiga frowned and huffed. "And he didn't even try to use it against me…"

"What?"

"Haruka. When we played, he was all by the book. nothing like this… Tch."

"Jealous?"

"More like betrayed… I seriously wish he'll lose this."

"Who now?"

"Father." He said sourly. He didn't wish the victory to Daiki, but he was angry at Haruka.

"I think he will. The game is getting too long for his old bones." She hummed. It was dragging well over 20 minutes now, and they had a lot of spectators. It wasn't common that the school's basketball ace played against a former national team's ace. It lured the crowds in.

No one scored for the past three minutes.

Daiki was now hyper focused. He needed to find any gap he could use to get the shot in. He couldn't let Haruka equal the score. No way! The game couldn't be that close. He was better! The only one who could beat him was him! Not Kise, not Taiga, not even his former hero. Some part of him wished Haruka would win and prove he was still that hero (he still was, given by the game he showed to Daiki), but the age was getting to him. And Daiki wouldn't sacrifice his weekend with Aya to his childish wish. He'd win this.

And then he found what he needed when Haruka staggered with a grunt. Daiki didn't hesitate and shot.

5-3 for Daiki.

"Tch, stupid knee." Haruka grumbled massaging his right knee. The reason for which he'd quit. It hadn't hurt for so long, but then again, he hadn't really played for so long. And now he overexerted it.

"Aomine wins." Katsunori announced, looking at Haruka with an 'I told you' expression.

"I told you, old man. The only one, who can beat me, is me." He said with a shrug and wiped the sweat of his face. But he wouldn't say that he actually enjoyed the game, that he was surprised by the level of Haruka's skills. He couldn't admit it. He still won. He was glad, but part of him was also disappointed. He didn't even reach into his deepest reserves to win. It was frustrating. The match positively confused him, mixed up all of his feelings about the sport. He wasn't sure what he felt anymore.

Haruka shook his head. "I certainly doubt that." But then he outstretched his hand to the ace. "It was a good game, thank you."

He blinked at it in surprise. "Going to try and crush my hand again?"

"No." He chuckled. "I simply appreciated the game." He said honestly. He didn't like his daughter's boyfriend out of principle, but the match was really good. Daiki was a great player and he wanted to respect that. And from the play he could understand a bit of Daiki's personality; he liked what he saw. But he wasn't sure about what the match had caused.

With a sigh, Daiki shook hands with the man. It was firm, but warm. It was a truce. They both knew it. There would be banters between them, but now they could respect one another much better.

"Man, I hate losing." Haruka grumbled when he turned to Katsunori. He made a few steps, feeling he was limping a bit. "Tche, I hate that knee even more."

"You knew what you were getting yourself into in that game." Katsunori reminded him about the past.

"Yeah. Yeah." The match, the gym, he felt like home. Like he just jumped ten years back, to his old friends, to his old habits, to his old self. It was strangely satisfying. It felt good, right.

"Who is that, and where is that annoying Haruka?" Taiga asked, pouting. "And why is he limping?"

She wondered about the sudden change too. "He had a knee surgery. If I remember correctly, a part of his knee is made out of titanium. It has been for… 9, 10 years?"

"Ah, right… That. I almost forgot that's why he quit."

"I'm surprised he managed to play this long."

"Well, looks like your man got a fanclub after this." He teased and pointed towards a few girls that had gathered to watch the match.

"I don't think they'll have much success with him…" She still narrowed her eyes at them.

"Guard him well, sis'." He laughed.

"Stupid!" She slapped his shoulder, which only made him laugh harder.

"A sibling fight?" Daiki asked as he walked up to the twins with a victorious smirk on his face.

"Oh, no." Taiga smirked. "Just teasing my sister about your new fanclub." He pointed his thumb at the girls.

"My what?!" He snapped his head towards the girls with a deep frown. "They'd better not chase me around like Kise…" Some of the girls took a step back under his glare and stared at their feet. Daiki looked hot, but he was damn scary and rude. "Wait, can you tease her with that?"

"She's here!" Aya crossed her arms at her chest.

"Sure, Love. So…"He looked at her. "Can he tease you with that?"

"He can. You… Don't try it."

"Hmmm. Jealous?"

"Who wouldn't be?" She tilted her head challengingly, and then grinned. "But I trust you. For now."

"A threat?"

"No. Just sayin'." She chuckled.

"Urgh." Taiga grumbled. "So? Up for one more game?"

"Ye–"

"Unfortunately, we're leaving." Haruka appeared next to them and rested his arm on Taiga's shoulder. "Your old man needs some rest."

"Derek can come back for me later."

"This is the event for their school and schoolmates. And I've paid them enough for that match."

Taiga was frowning at him.

"What?"

"Nothin'." He mumbled. "Let's go then." He turned on his heel and stomped out.

"What did I do?" He asked, looking at Aya for an answer.

"Uuuhm… held back when playing with him? Maybe? Not that he'd care, no."

"Oh, shit…" He rubbed his temples. "Way to go, dad." He said sarcastically to himself. "Sorry, I haven't realised it before… How long will he be angry?"

"Don't sorry me. With Taiga… Make a good dinner. Two or three times. It should do the trick. He is very food motivated."

He raised an eyebrow at her suspiciously. "Why are you helping me?" So far, she was enjoying when she could mock and tease him.

Aya shrugged with an amused smile. "You're changing. Today, I saw glimpses of the dad I once adored so much, so..."

He blinked; his heart was moved by those words. Coming here today was certainly the right decision, despite Aya's protests. He had no idea what exactly was changing, but today, he felt like the goofy ace and captain he used to be. And he didn't mind it at all.

"Thanks." He smiled at her. Normally he would hug her, but he felt they weren't quite there yet.

"Rest that knee properly, terminator."

Haruka saluted. "Yes ma'am. Whatever you say." A genuine, happy smile spread on his lips. "Derek! Come on, we're leaving! And we need to stop by at a pharmacy." He shouted through the whole gym, to get the driver's attention.

"Ah! Coming, sir!"

During the bonfire time, Aya and Daiki sneaked to their rooftop to be alone. It was chillier and Aya was wrapped up in her zipper hoodie and Daiki's team's jacket on top of it. Her head was resting against Daiki's shoulder comfortably. They were sitting on the ground, watching the schoolmates eating, talking, and some slowly dancing around a huge bonfire below them, which signalled the end of the successful sport's festival.

The rest of the afternoon was rather lazy. Daiki played his role in entertaining the challengers who paid to play against him. He totally destroyed them. Aya was watching him most of the time, but she wandered off to try some volleyball with those girls who were friendly with her. She even tried playing soccer for a moment with guys, until Daiki came to fetch her, but she pulled him into the game too. He didn't like it, but Aya could somehow make it fun; especially when she accidentally stepped on the ball and fell on her butt.

He sighed contently. He was dead tired after the whole day of running around. His muscles were numb and positively hurting. But it was all worth it. The whole day, all the effort. And now he was sitting up here, with his woman leaning against his side, relaxing. It was just nice.

"It was a good day." She hummed.

"Your first sport's festival, right?"

"Mhm. I loved it."

He smiled, and pulled her closer, his hand resting around her waist. "What was the best?"

"Bo-taoshi. And the match. It seemed like you two came to a truce?"

"I don't know." He said and looked into the fire far below them. He wouldn't tell her about their bet. He won fair and square. "It certainly surprised me."

"What did? That he shook hands with you afterwards, or his play?"

"Both. I thought he'd mock me, tease me during the game. He didn't."

"Neither did you… Why not?" From what she knew, Daiki usually did mock his opponents.

He shrugged. "It didn't feel right, I guess."

"Why?"

"Tch. Because. He was in the damn national team. The ace and captain. He was in the Olympics. I wasn't... Yet. So… I do have some sense of respect in me." He said harsher than he wanted, but she just chuckled softly as if expecting such an answer. "What?"

"Nothing. You enjoyed the game."

"…he was better than I expected. If not for that knee of his…"

"He could've won?"

"Who knows? Probably not. He felt rusty." But the thought excited him. Could that be an opponent he was looking for?

"Give him a few months and he'll kick your ass in the game."

"Hey! Weren't you all against him just a few weeks ago?"

"He's shown me that grin today. That excitement, joy… He used to radiate that constantly. Not anymore. As a kid I loved that. He was like a sun, always positive. And I hope he can get back there. Now that he's thinking about other stuff than the company and mom..."

He chuckled softly, kissing the top of her head. "You really see the best in people, eh?"

"He's family. I'm trying." She nodded with a smile.

He yawned loudly.

"Wanna go home?" She asked a bit disappointed, but she knew they'd see each other tomorrow.

"Mmm, I'm tired."

"And need a proper sleep for tomorrow."

"Are you underestimating my stamina?" He abruptly got up, almost making her fall when she suddenly lost her support.

"Hey!" She protested, but he already jerked her to her feet and scooped her up. She had no time to protest. Her legs wrapped around his hips, or she'd fall.

His lips crashed with hers passionately. He was happy with the cuddling, but she would not tease him like this. His arms wrapped around her waist and he pulled her as close as possible.

He was radiating warmth even in his short sleeved t-shirt. She loved it. Her fingers dived into his hair and massaged his scalp. This reminded her of their short post-competition make out in the changing room. Damn it was hot, but not finished as they got interrupted.

His tongue found his way into her mouth and it made her moan in pleasure. Before she knew it, her back was leaning against a wall and Daiki's hands were caressing her wherever he could. Without messing her clothes. He had a feeling that if he uncovered her skin, exposed it to the late evening's chill, she'd slap him. She hated the cold that much.

"Daiki," she huffed against his lips. Her breathing was heavy and she was positively turned on.

"What?"

"…tomorrow."

"Tomorrow?"

She bit her lip, looking at him with so much desire. "You have your parents home now, right?"

"Tch." He kissed her again. "Unfortunately."

"Tomorrow." She insisted. It was too cold for her to get her clothes off, and she wanted to feel his hands on her skin. She really did.

He sighed heavily and let her down. "Fine."

She grinned teasingly and opened the door to get back to the others and then get a ride home. "And, I'm not underestimating your stamina regarding sex." She said and started running down the stairs.

He blushed, "you little…!" he shouted and chased after her.

---

A/N: I got sidetracked with the sports festival here, it fascinates me - my main inspiration were some shoujo mangas I've read and some youtube videos. Whether it's accurate or not, I'm not sure. I made up lots of things. But if you know any better, or how real sports festivals look like in Japan let me know, I'm curious (especially the bo-taoshi, or pole toppling. I've read it's only practised by the army, sooo... Dunno, but I loved the idea!).

I'm not 100% sure about the title of this chapter, if you have any better ideas, please let me know.

I hope you liked it, I hope it wasn't a drag, too OOC or anything. The next chapter should have some fluff, the jiu-jitsu camp, their weekend trip, it should be shorter... And then finally: the Winter cup! I hope you'll stick with me through all that. But I'm not promising any deadline here.

Thanks again for your patience and support!

Let me know what you think and remember, reviews are appreciated, but never necessary.

S.