The smile left her face when his figure disappeared. Basked with what felt like ice-cold water, Sawako turned her feet and leave the station area alone. Long, slow strides until she reached the apartment building. Slender fingers hold on to the doorknob, swinging it open, and entered alone. Sawako closed the door before her legs gave away.

Alone. This is it.

The start of her loneliness in this fine apartment room that she rented has slowly filled her lungs and embraced her. She pushed herself up, unclasping the strap of her sandals before trotting to the bed. Sawako fell down on its softness, her hand gripping on the white cloth at the memory of a young setter sleeping on her bed.

She sighed. There's nothing that can be done but to endure for days.

Soft, tiny purr entered her hearing and Sawako looked down to see a fur tainted with black and golden eyes that appeared to be all-seeing. She held out a hand and the feline came to pet itself on her skin by rubbing its head on her chin.

"Tobio…" She whispered the name she gave to the animal.

The kitten purred. He appeared to have like the name. It made Sawako smile. It might be silly that she would actually use the name of her boyfriend for a cat in spite to tease the lad. But for her, she wanted to take good care of something else entirely as she was away from what she's used to.

Finding a bubble of warmth in her stomach, Sawako reached out for her phone. Opening it, she swiped for the camera and focus the lens on herself. She beamed, seeing the kitten leaning closer to her cheek with a soft mewl through the screen.

She giggled to herself when a photo was taken.

Laying on the bed, Sawako mentally noted to herself the things she planned to do once the sun rises and of the following days. As far as what she knew of, Asahi would be coming to Tokyo next week. The lad made a last-minute decision of attending a fashion school after all – much to their surprise after their former ace's statement that he won't attend college.

There's an orientation, buying textbooks, a week of club recruitment before the actual first day starts… What to do?

Throughout the time spent thinking, Sawako wondered if Tobio-kun reached home. Oh, that guy was stuck with her family name.

When is he going to call me by my name?

She pouted. But she also wondered if he actually fell asleep during the ride. He did say that he will message her so, she decided to wait for his mail.

Her mouth felt dry. There was a need to chew. Thinking that it's almost about time for dinner, Sawako sat up on the bed. She was careful not to wake nor disturb the sleeping cat, she gently placed her palm on its small and rub it thrice.

With a soft smile, Sawako went to the small kitchen. She opened the small fridge grabbed the pork in the freezer, vegetables in the Tupperware, and rice on a covered bucket that they bought earlier alongside the appliances. When all ingredients were set on the counter, her hands reached for the folded apron, placing it on herself before beginning to cook for dinner.

She has just finished cooking and washing her hands when her phone beeped and vibrated in her pocket. Sawako fished it out, expecting it'll come from the awkward lad. And it was. It brought a smile to her face.


Date: 03/25 18:32

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: (No Subject)

I'm home.


Her fingers immediately went to type her reply. Her back leaned on the sink.


Date: 03/25 18:33

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Welcome home.

I just cooked dinner.


Date: 03/25 18:34

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

I'll be eating mine as well.


Date: 03/25 18:34

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Eat well.


Date: 03/25 18:35

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Yes, ma'am. You too.


With a smile, she turned off her phone and placed it back in her pocket. Facing the sink, Sawako reached for a plate and utensils (They bought five pieces each, just in case). She helped herself with the meal and placing a bowl of water for the kitten. From the looks of its size, Sawako deduced that Neko-Tobio was around two months old. She had to remind herself to go to the vet with her new companion.

And Sawako ate her dinner, sitting on the floor with a cushion – all alone in the apartment she rented.

That same night, Sawako took out and manage the laptop on her study table. Sawako watched the black screen seeing her dim reflection and the blue light on the side that signaled it was being opened, loading. Soon, the screen lightened up and she waited for it to load. She could see the screen picture – a family portrait of years ago before it faded and changed into a joint family portrait with the Kageyama family.

Soft and warm creature rubbed its tiny head on her ankle. Sawako bent down and giggled at the affection. Neko-Tobio purred at her, looking at her with those big, yellow eyes. She picked it up and rubbing her fingers on its round belly.

It loaded for a while but after a few moments, there was a blue dot on the icon and Sawako dragged the cursor with her pointing finger. The arrow pointed at the blue software and she tapped twice to open it. There was a message.


Familia Spring Breeze

5 participantsGallery

Suchaku: Uploaded a photo

Hitorin: SAWA-NEE!

Hitorin: LEMME C WAT UR ROOM LOOKS LIEK!


Ignoring Hitori, the picture loaded and Sawako's heart warmed and stilled at what their youngest sent. It was a picture of the family on the dining table, each sporting smiles before apparently eating their dinner.

"This is my family, Tobio." She whispered at the kitten that played with her arms. "Mama, Hitori, Kirin, and Suzaku." She said, pointing at the heads on the photo as if the feline could understand a word of what she said.

How nice.

She smiled. Taking her phone and opening the camera, she took quick photos of the entirety of her room. Of course, Sawako included Neko-Tobio in the picture as she roamed around the small area of the apartment.

Once she's done, she uploaded the photos on their group chat.


Sadako: Uploaded 4 photos.

Kicchi: How cute! Who is he/she?!

Suchaku: You're barely gone for a day…

Hitorin: SWEEEET! AND WERD YA GET DAT?

Mamamiki: Oh meow~


On her first night away from the town and her family, Sawako spent the remaining time of the day before her bedtime through a video call with her family. On the other side, they appeared to share two devices: Miki's and Suzaku's, and mostly talked about how their day went during her absence and how she spent the day with Tobio-kun, as well as finding the kitten in her arms.

She wasn't able to talk to Tobio-kun via phone call that night as her family took most of her time, leaving her with only a few minutes to spare for shower and skincare. But she still messaged him despite the sleepiness that slowly visited.


Date: 03/25 20:15

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Today

Hello there, good evening!

I talked with the family tonight.

How are things on your end?


Surprisingly enough, he replied quickly.

Was he waiting?


Date: 03/25 20:16

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Hi, evening.

You were the topic of tonight's dinner. Mother asked of you once your back. Something like lunch or dinner.

And we have training tomorrow.


Date: 03/25 20:16

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Oh. You can tell her that I'll go.

Is that so? Well, that's alright. I'm going to check out the university tomorrow. There's an orientation for freshmen.


Date: 03/25 20:17

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Okay.

The kitten?


For some reason, it made her smile.

Are you a tsundere?


Date: 03/25 20:18

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

I thought you hate him.


Date: 03/25 20:19

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

I don't!

Dislike. To think we share the same name and to be on the same level with a cat.


Sawako laughed. She could imagine him biting his lip or gritting his teeth as he denied a fact.


Date: 03/25 20:20

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Awww, he's still a kitten, though.

You're my man, so don't worry~

You're being a cutie getting jelly over a cat, y'know!

I love you.


She blushed but with the smile still on her face. Sighing, she placed the phone on her lap. Despite being vocal about her feelings, she still got shy.

Ah. He's so cute.

She picked up the phone. She frowned. But understanding dawned on the features of her face that it made her giggle.

Oh, he's shy.


Date: 03/25 20:25

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Okay, I'll stop teasing tonight.

Are you going to sleep?


DateL 03/25 20:25

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

K.

Are you?


Date: 03/25 20:26

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

I am. If that's okay


Date: 03/25 20:26

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

It is.

Goodnight?


Date: 03/25 20:19

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Yes.

Goodnight, Tobio-kun.


Sawako sighed.

Days of their relationship and months of being acquainted with each other still carried this awkward atmosphere between the two of them. She was aware that she can be that awkward but giving it a thought, Tobio-kun was more awkward.

That child…

She pouted and sighed for the umpteenth time. She even giggled at how he didn't reply after she dropped the "L" word. She knew that he was not good at socialization but he still tried to be one. Hardworking and a trying-hard – it's one of his charms that she really liked about him. And he's basically new to this kind of stuff – being vocal with his romantic feelings and all.

The ravenette was about to stand when she received messages. At first, she thought that there were no follow-up emails anymore, but she was wrong.


Date: 03/25 20:24

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

Goodnight, Sawako-san.


Date: 03/25 20:24

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Today

I love you too.


"Oh gosh, you're so cute…!" She couldn't help but fawn over his last message for the day.


Sawako's night turned out fine and less melancholic after that. She was reassured of the people, the reason behind why she's working hard, who she was trying to catch up, that it made her feel giddy. The words exchanged in the lonely room of her rented apartment eased her anxiety. Her promise of going back home every weekend was the main reason for this predicament.

She couldn't stop herself from getting excited to see them again. And it's barely a day since she was separated from those groups of people.

When she woke up the next day, her mind has just slowly realized wherever she was. She blinked her eyes, adjusting to the dimness of the room. Her bluish-green eyes stared at the ceiling. The mattress on the bed, the room, and the background noise felt so different. That, and the weight on her neck wasn't helping for her to realize that she was not in her bedroom back in town.

Her fingers brushed the fur of the clingy kitten that decided to unintentionally choke her as it slept on her neck.

Just like the namesake, you like necks, too, huh, Neko-Tobio.

A smile curved on her lips at the memory of the adorable boyfriend of hers. Thinking of how he responded to the messages last night never failed to make her heart tightened in happiness. Ignoring the blush, Sawako moved the cat so she could sit on the bed. And once she's successful, she began to make her way to the different kitchen.

She remembered the one back at home. The smelled of wood, its spaciousness, and the brightness from the window and the engawa that she would open – allowing the rays of the sun to enter their house and Sawako felt so much closer to nature. This time, it was entirely different. It was cramped, and there was no trace of wood at all.

Sawako eyed the rice container and began to work on what her usual morning goes. Halfway through cutting onions and carrots, she remembered something.

"Ah."

Washing her hands, she reached for her phone that was on the nightstand. The screen lit up, showing her lock screen (Tobio-kun), and saw the time. Even if the prefecture changed, her body clocked remained unchanging. She swiftly took a picture of the sleeping kitten on the bed.


Date: 03/26 04:25

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Good day

Attachments: See attachments

Good morning!


Sawako wandered her eyes around the campus. Bluish-green eyes lingering the most on the street that was surrounded with green and pink. She didn't give it much attention on the last time that she visited the university but somehow, the place was stunningly romantic.

She bit her lip at the thought and continued on her tour around.

She came across an unsurprisingly full-packed cafeteria with diverse backgrounds and races. Sawako could see undergraduate students of Japanese races but also foreign as well. There may be hafu like her around. Murmurs of different languages and dialects echoed in this area and she couldn't help but feel the thrill of intimidation it possesses. There were tables and chairs outside and there are those who sat there basking under the sun, feeling the wind of the spring. It looked aesthetically pleasing in her eyes.

Soon, she found herself facing the main building of the campus. Tall and old ombre of color with the imposing clock at the top oversees everything in the area. It was spacious and there were only a few who passes by.

She passed by the university museum, laboratories, rooms of the different faculties, the gymnasium that was large enough to be called the university arena, dojos, training halls, statues of foreign professors, and lastly, the main library where she could see herself spending her free time inside, flipping the book that smells so old and a little dusty.

Shaking her head and swiftly turning on her heels, Sawako moved in a lightly fast pace to trot to the room where the orientation will be held. She traced back the steps that she took, her mind wandering to the place of the event.

Alas, Sawako found the door and entered. It was fifteen minutes before the thirteenth hour and there were a number of freshmen like her. Seats are almost occupied, making her struggle to find herself a seat.

Ah.

There was one at the corner, right at the very back. Three seats were left unoccupied. Her eyes lit up and her feet moved. She slid her bag from her shoulders, placing it on the desk before her bottoms touched the cold chair. Sawako sighed in content and faced forward.

The time is 13:47.

"Hi. Is this seat taken?"

A soft voice suddenly spoke beside her and Sawako looked up in slight surprise. A petite girl with long brown hair and blunt bangs wearing a kind smile appeared. The said person was gesturing at the vacant seats beside her.

Sawako shook her head. "No, please go ahead."

The brunette looked delighted and sighed. "Ah, thank you. All seats seem to be taken."

She just smiled, unsure of what to say. It would have been more awkward if it wasn't for a woman entering the room and started to distribute the pamphlets. Her eyes trailed after the paper that was being passed on until it reached her hands. She took one and passed it to the person beside her.

She heard a murmur of "Thank you" and she hummed.


The orientation only took less than two hours. They only watched a couple of videos that talked about the history of the university, an overview of what their campus life would be, the faculties and programs being offered. Gathering her things, Sawako took note of the time and found it was just about time for an afternoon snack.

I should buy myself textbooks, too.

She made a mental note to herself, also reminding her to buy the kitten his toys, food, and hygiene stuff. However, as expected as it came, her stomach growled in hunger. Blinking, she shrugged off the embarrassed blush that erupted when the girl from before giggled.

"That made me hungry, too." The stranger said. "Wanna go grab a bite together?"

Oh.

"I'm Yamaka Mika by the way." The brunette smiled.

It made Sawako smiled back. "I'm Harukaze Sawako of the Education department, taking your offer." She couldn't help but bit the insides of her cheek.

"Oh! I'm taking Medicine. Nursing to be precise." Yamaka-san titled her head. There was a charming smile plastered on her face. "Let's go?"

Sawako nodded.

What a pretty person.


Later, Sawako noticed quite a few things on this companion of hers. Yamaka-san was a gentle. She gave off this mixed Asahi and Daichi vibe that she couldn't help but miss the two dorky lads in town. Aside from that, the girl wasn't talkative but when she talks, there was this sophisticated way that she found in Tokyo-born people.

"Eh?"

"Eh, what?"

Yamaka-san covered her agape mouth. The chopsticks stuck between her fingers as they ate their snack (also trying cafeteria food). She found the reaction odd and new.

Did I say something…. weird?

"You're from… that Karasuno?"

Sawako raised a brow. "Yeah…"

To her surprise, the girl clapped her hands in delight. "That's amazing! I watched Haruko and I'm a fan! I really like the team!"

A blink.

Haruko?

The image of a raven-haired setter in an orange jersey making a good block and a perfect set drenched in his own sweat suddenly appeared in her mind. It made her blush and Sawako covered her reddening cheeks.

"Oh." Was her only response. It took her moments to gather her thoughts. "You were there?!"

"Yep. My boyfriend played and I wanted to see that side of the world… Huh? Does that mean….?"

She nodded. "Yes." The Harukaze grinned. "My friends were playing. My cousin's the coach and um… my… my…." Sawako blushed before she could finish her sentence.

Yamaka-san smiled with a knowing grin. "What is it?"

Pouting, she turned to the side as her fingers automatically started to play with the strands of her hair. "The guy I like… now-boyfriend also plays in the team."

"Heh~"

Her face turned into a deeper shade of red. Her lips managed to form a smile. As Yamaka-san giggled, Sawako joined her and resumed eating the food they ordered.

Later on, it reached to her that Yamaka-san attended Nohebi Academy with her boyfriend, who was the previous team captain of the school team. Apparently, they broke up before the playoffs because of the lad's focus on the sport but later reunited for the same reason. And apparently as well, if Nohebi only advanced on that last match, there's a slim chance that Karasuno's going to face them.

Sawako found herself telling the girl of her relation to the team. From how she grew up watching his cousin play on his high school days, to be missing in action to the AsaDaiKou's matches, and later on, supporting the team with her family. They even exchanged numbers together despite the differences of the department and bought their textbooks together.

On the day of the orientation, Sawako found a friend in the form of Yamaka Mika.

"Well, I'm heading that way. How about you?"

Sawako glanced in the direction the brunette was pointing. She smiled and pointed in the opposite direction.

"A few blocks down there."

Yamaka-san nodded. "Okay. See you?"

A nod. "See you, Mika-chan."

"Bye-bye, Sawako-chan."

She waved back at the girl waiting for her figure to disappear. Once Mika-chan was out of her sight, she turned on her heels to go back to the apartment.

Oh.

But first, she's going to stop by at a nearby pet shop to buy Neko-Tobio his shampoo, food, toys, and pet-carrier.


Date: 03/26 15:12

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Orientation

I made a friend today!

She's from Nohebi, a fan of Karasuno, and a cute girl!


Immediately after sending an update to the broody and awkward lad, Sawako went to the music and turned on the volume of her phone. With the music reaching her ears and filling the room, she headed to the kitchen and began to cook herself an early dinner.


Date: 03/26 18:07

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

A fan? Nohebi? They went against Nekoma.

All are cute for you.


Feeling the vibration of her phone, Sawako looked up from the opened textbook. Fingers loosened its hold on a pencil, and carefully placed the book at the sight of the notification on her screen.

She was in the middle of studying after eating her dinner. Her textbooks were piled on the study table, covered in a plastic wrapper to maintain good condition, and was just giving herself a head-start on what they're going to study as she received the syllabus via her mail on the same day. Meanwhile, Neko-Tobio was on the floor playing with the toy she bought earlier.


Date: 03/26 18:08

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

Yes, a fan.

She was at the nationals the whole time.

Yes, yes. Of course, and it also includes you.

Oh, is training supposed to end by now?


She giggled, imagining the red hue that dusted on his cheeks after being indirectly called cute once again.


Date: 03/26 18:11

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

Yes. I'm about to head to the showers.

Miki-san invited me for dinner. Rather, it was Mother whom she invited.


Date: 03/26 18:12

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

Mama really likes you a lot.

So, you're gonna be at home later?


When he didn't reply after the five-minute mark that passed, Sawako immediately concluded that he's already in the showers as he said. Shaking her head from untimely, albeit unwanted, thoughts of a drenched setter, she diverted her attention back to the task she was doing minutes ago.

It felt so long when she first met the previous first-years – of when she was still in her second year in high school. Now, those five children are third years and leading the current batch of the team. Sawako giggled upon remembering how the two rowdy children (Tanaka-kun and Nishinoya-kun) went all shy on her.

She couldn't help but read his last message again with a pout. A dinner with his family sounds nice. It almost made her envious.

I can't wait to go home.


Date: 03/26 19:11

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

Attachment: See attachments

Yes.

Don't get jealous.


An hour later, he replied and the first thing that Sawako did was take a look at the photo he sent.

He was at their house, indeed by the looks of the interior and seeing the huge family portrait in the living room. In the photo, her adorable setter of a boyfriend was not included but her adorable sisters, Hitori and Kirin, sported a "V" sign while holding a bowl of food. Salad and minced meat, it seems. Suzaku was in the background with the two women. They appeared to be doing the kitchen work to this dinner.

A smile dawned on her face. He got along so well with her family that their mothers are friends and there's no ill-intent with her siblings.

It was perfect.


Date: 03/26 19:21

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

Attachment: See attachments

It's okay. I have Tobio with me anyway.

So, don't get jealous.


In response, she sent him a picture kissing the kitten she picked up.

No, Sawako certainly didn't send him that to spite him. But when her phone vibrated, Sawako burst into laughter.

Ha!


Date: 03/26 19:21

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

OI.


Even more so when a sudden notification appeared.


Familia Spring Breeze

5 participants │Gallery

Hitorin: The guys jelly! AND IT'S FUNNY!

Hitorin: Uploaded a photo.

Hitorin: LOOK AT THE FACE! HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAA


Indeed, it was. She swore that he also made a similar face during one of his matches at the nationals.


Sadako: He's cute.


Date: 03/26 19:23

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Orientation

I love you.

He's a cat. He's not gonna transform into a human, okay?


Hitorin: Okay, that was werd, Sawa-nee…

Sadako: What is it?

Hitorin: ONE MOMENT HES SCARY NOW HES BLISHING LIKE CRAZY!

Hitorin: BLUSHING

Sadako: Oh my~

Hitorin: I think I know why now

Hitorin: *INSERT VOMITING SOUNDS*

Sadako: Someday, you'll take that back once you meet someone that'll make you say those words right out of your mouth.

Suchaku: Ew.

Sadako: You too, Suchaku!

Suchaku: Not gonna happen.

Hitorin: (1)


She could only roll her eyes at the two. She typed a few responses before the two families started to eat their dinner. It was then that Sawako continued to study.


"Excuse me…"

Sawako giggled at the story of a person named Daishou Suguru giving another person named Kuroo a bad finger when Mika-chan's not looking but mellowed when she appeared and approached them.

"… Excuse me…"

She couldn't help but think that Mika-chan's boyfriend almost bore a resemblance to her Tobio – minus the bad finger, of course. She could not imagine the lad doing so despite his nature when a situation calls for it.

"E-Excuse me, miss!"

"Eh?"

Surprise at a sudden outburst by her side, Sawako turned to a lad that stood. He sported brown hair that was a little messy and a pair of brown eyes. For some reason, he was…. He looked nervous and blushing.

"Yes, how can I help you?" She asked.

"Um… you see…." The stranger started. His hand began to rub his nape and there was a color of pink on his ears.

It took her back to the night she first spoke to Tobio-kun. Back when she was just out to buy in the nearby pharmacy and when she thought he was a killer. The memory of his pink ears made her blush.

"… - tually you've been on my mind since the exams. Ah! I sat beside you and I know you don't remember me. But um… you're just my type so I was wondering if you'd like to go out with me and get to know each other."

Ha?

From the corner of her eyes, she could see Mika-chan's surprised reaction at the sudden move of this person before them. The fallen fork hinted to it.

Did I hear him, right?

Her ears must've been hearing things but did this person really asked her to go out? Her? "Um…" Sawako was nervous. Embarrassed even as she couldn't help it. It was just the day to check out the clubs and organizations, as well as meeting Mika-chan again. She didn't expect for a… confession to happen in a cafeteria nonetheless.

She started by slowly standing up to face the person before bowing. "I apologize. I'm already dating someone."

She saw how his face dropped. "Oh… it's… it's alright." He bowed. "I apologized for the inconvenience!"

Seemingly in a hurry, the lad left. Her eyes followed his figure that joined a group of lad tables away from them. Some even threw her a look and some chose to comfort a fallen comrade. Passing it as something normal in Suzaku's everyday-high-school-life, she sat down and shared a glance with her new friend.

"He called you Yamato Nadeshiko…"

"What? Why?"

Mika-chan shrugged. "Black hair. Hime-cut hairstyle. Gentle-face. Elegant. Polite."

"You're making me blush, Mika-chan." Sawako covered a smile.

The girl only giggled. "Now, about that…"

"Oh yes." Her bluish-green eyes lit up over the blush that slowly appeared. "We actually met on his exam day…"


Sawako was just going home with Neko-Tobio, passing the busy streets of Tokyo. She came from the park blocks away with the intention of receiving fresh air. The city was certainly different than the rural area she grew up in.

It was unprecedented in her case but a common occurrence for Tokyo residents.

"Excuse me, miss. Are you interested to join an agency?"

She paused.

"With your height and beauty, you are perfect -"

"Let's go home, Tobio."

"-your sense of style is not bad either. We ha - Eh?"

Sawako hummed while scratching the kitten's jaw.


Date: 03/29 12:21

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Going home!

Attachments: See attachments

We're set!


Date: 03/29 12:21

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

Okay. I'll pick you up.


Date: 03/29 12:22

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

I can manage.


Date: 03/29 12:22

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

I insist.


Date: 03/29 12:22

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

You have your training, right? Do you miss me that much?

I'll see you anyway whenever.

Patience, my love.


Date: 03/29 12:25

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

Fine. Back to training.


Date: 03/29 12:25

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: Going home!

I love you, too.

We're heading out.


Giggling to herself, Sawako placed her phone in her bag. A smile curved and she sighed in content and in excitement. She glanced at the kitten that was fast asleep on her bed. Neko-Tobio's black fur clung to the white sheet perfectly, it looked angelic to her.

With love, she picked him up and placed the small feline on the pet carrier she bought the other day.

"Plugs, out. Windows, locked. Water, off. Keys…" She played with the keychain with the room key and nodded to herself. "…with me."

Without further ado, Sawako grabbed the backpack and Neko-Tobio before going out. After making sure that she locked her door properly, she set her feet to move on the stairs to head to the station.

Her week passed by in a blink of an eye. She met with Yamaka Mika-chan more than a few times whenever she visited the university. They've become good friends. She shared a number of days with the nursing student whenever they can. She joined the Literature Club as usual.

Her apartment life can be lonely sometimes and she would sad randomly. But with Neko-Tobio and consistent exchange with Human-Tobio and her family, it wasn't that bad. As such, she was getting used to the distance. She had a feeling that this would continue for the rest of her life. Even then, she still wanted to see them whenever she can. And she admits that she's lucky to have people who understand and respect why she didn't reply immediately.


Date: 03/29 12:36

From: Sugawara Koushi

Subject: Really?!

I heard from Kageyama that you're going home today.

When are you available?


She found herself sitting comfortably in a two-seater inside the shinkansen when her best guy friend mailed her.

Due to the different paths that they chose after graduating, getting into college life, and working (in Kiyoko's case), as well as the different schools that they chose to attend, Sawako was unable to talk that much with her buddies in town.


Date: 03/29 12:44

To: Sugawara Koushi

Subject: Re: Really?!

We should meet up Saturday morning.


But that's alright. She can make time for them just how she's doing her best to balance academics, family, and romance at the same time.


Date: 03/29 12:45

From: Sugawara Koushi

Subject: Re: Really?!

Cooooool~!

You better tell us how you two were doing!

I mean it with details.


She rolled her eyes.


Date: 03/29 12:45

To: Sugawara Koushi

Subject: Re: Really?!

Roger, Sugamama.


Date: 03/29 12:46

From: Sugawara Koushi

Subject: Re: Really?!

Good, daughter.

I'll tell them about the plans.


With a smile to herself, she drifted off to a nap.

It was around two in the afternoon when Sawako opened her eyes. Just about time for the train to slow down at the Sendai Station. Immediately hearing of the announcement through com, she stood up and gathered her things. She did not forget the kitten that woke up in the middle of the ride.


Familia Spring Breeze

5 participants│Gallery

Sadako: Uploaded a photo.

Suchaku: Mother's at Tohoku. You know where the keys are.

Sadako: Shouldn't you be in training?

Sadako: Where's Kicchi?

Suchaku: Water break.

Suchaku: With Makoto-san.

Suchaku: I have no idea why.


Really?!

Sawako blinked in surprise. To think that her sister is with her infatuated guy, Makoto-kun, at this time, with no one else with her in the family nonetheless! She wanted to squeal in delight but she remembered that she was in a public area.

Was there a development while I was away? Oh my gosh.

Unable to grasp what she had read, Sawako hastily made her way to leave the station without telling anybody else that she's back in the town. The photo that she sent in the group chat was just a signboard of the station where she's at.

"I can't wait to introduce you to the family, Tobio-kun." She purred at the kitten that played on the thin metal bars. She smiled. "You'll love them. Oh! Wanna meet the family of your human counterpart?"

And now she's back to being giddy at the idea that she's very near to the people she held dear. At long last after four days, she's back. Same air, same atmosphere, the same buzzing city has greeted her when she stepped foot outside.


Date: 03/29 14:04

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: (No Subject)

Where are you?


Date: 03/29 14:04

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Secret.


She shook her head, amused at her response.

Not seeing Tobio-kun for days was not exactly a new thing. Long before they realized what they felt, there was a time wherein Sawako could endure without having to go through this strong desire of missing the lad so bad. After all, she spent her whole summer not seeing him in a month and they haven't exchanged numbers at that time.

But perhaps, it was because that they're taking it seriously this time that made four days without seeing him way too different. It's like, she couldn't go on a day without seeing his face.

I think I'm being clingy.

She thought to herself without hesitation as she rode on the bus to the town.


Date: 03/29 14:06

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Seriously?


Date: 03/29 14:06

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Are you even allowed to use your phone?


Date: 03/29 14:09

From: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Where are you?


Sawako pouted when he repeated the question.


Date: 03/29 14:09

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

Are you mad?

I'm sorry. I was just teasing you.


She looked up from her screen to checked where she's at and found that she's almost at her stop. Sawako found it nice and the excitement visited her once more. She couldn't stop grinning.

Going back, she bit her lip.


Date: 03/29 14:09

To: Kageyama Tobio

Subject: Re: (No Subject)

I'm on a bus.

Almost there.


She stared. Sawako watched the 14:09 turned to 14:10.

14:11. She raised a brow at the lack of unread mail.

14:14. She could see the bus stop and Sawako reached to press the button on the side by the window.

14:16. The bus came to a stop and Sawako stood up. Her hand swooped in to carry her backpack and the pet carrier. Her pocket that hid her phone remained unmoving with no signs of vibrating. But she shrugged his lack of response as a sign that he's back to training.

14: 16. Sawako raised her head and inhaled. The oh-so-familiar road and stores that lined up were very homey that she was sporting a wide grin already. She knew she was home and was minutes away from the Harukaze household.

14: 17. She heard ragged breathing on her side. Loud enough for her to hear, Sawako turned to look at the person with disturbing breathing.

But much to her surprise, she found a tall young lad with raven locks. Those raven locks stuck on his skin like how they stuck on her pillow. Her bluish-green eyes clashed with alluring blue that looked rather annoyed and happy before her. She saw the quirked of his lips that soon turned into a scowl that looked so natural on his face. She trailed her eyes downwards and found him wearing a white shirt with a printed, Karasuno High School and black shorts.

14:18. It took Sawako to realize who this person was before her.

Nine minutes. That was how long it took him to run from the gymnasium to where she stood. And before she could control herself, she bent over, clutching on her stomach as she released laughter.

"Oh –! Oh my –! Pfft!"

She saw him blushed.

"WHA-WHAT THE HELL?!"

"Y-You…!" She couldn't shake the image of an angry Keishin upon seeing someone in his team left without valid excuses. Oh my, this is precious! "I can't… I can't believe you!"

"What…" He mellowed and without asking her, took the pet carrier in her hand.

Sawako wiped the tear that escaped from her eyes. She saw him glared at the kitten that hissed in response.

"What are you doing here, Tobio-kun? Aren't you supposed to be in training? Did you ask Keishin to excuse you for a moment? Moreover, did you just run immediately after reading my message? That was rather sweet of you to the point, it was funny for being out of character. And please stop having a glaring contest with Neko-Tobio, dear Tobio-kun."

He clicked his tongue without facing her.

"Are you a tsundere?"

Tobio-kun tilted his head. "A what?"

Sawako just shook her head. "Nothing." He's definitely one. "Give me Tobio before you kill him with your glares."

Ah. She really missed him. To think that he chose to act on his feelings this time. Her eyes lit up when they started to walk on the narrow road that will lead them to the high school. Only when they were getting nearer did Sawako acted on her own feelings as well.

"Wa-Wah! Sawako-san?"

She tightened her grip on his shoulders, smelling the faint scent of man and sweat. She chose to ignore how sticky he felt and looked. Sawako sighed. "I missed you."


OMAKE

"For your information, I asked Ukai-san to let me go. I told him you were coming."

"He let you off like that?"

He nodded.

"Why'd you have to run?"

He looked away.

"Su-Surprise."

She laughed.

"But I got here before you."

"Then consider seeing me a surprise."

"I wasn't surprised at all." A lie.

"WHAT? WHY?!"

She bit her lip in amusement. "Kidding. I was surprised."

"Huh?"

"I love you, too."

She shook her head when he started to blush like a tomato.


note:

Now, I'm acad-free for the remainder of the week. Oh yeah.

Oh, oh! Did you saw that new story titled, Superfluous: A collection? Yeah? It's pretty much literally a collection of untold stories that I didn't include here. So, if you are interested in what happened to the chocolates, post-confession, pre-Valentine's, and what-nots, CHECK IT OUT! I don't have a regular schedule of updates for that though.

I feel sappy as well. Three more chapters before Epilogue.

See ya!