Education is important.
Deny it as much as you can, being educated is an important factor on living a successful lifestyle. Even I, the cynical loner have to reluctantly agree. The dominant factor in living a happy life that is rarely acknowledged by many and often acknowledged by the minority. And I, for one, am truly glad being one of the people in the latter.
Education is important.
Not many realized it.
Though the religions that inhabit the mind and soul of the people in this world varies in plenty of aspects, there are those elements or necessities that they all come to agree. Yes, the importance of education. Being educated is a necessity so that rituals or prayers as such can be performed correctly and precisely.
Education is important.
Not many realized it.
She didn't realize it.
Even I am one who constantly have himself educated - literature at most. Though if I were to speak that statement out loud a certain someone would have an enjoyable time retorting with her sharp, painful words. But, no. I take my education seriously and I don't care if it sound OOC. I've acknowledeged those who desires a life of not needing the help of other people needs to have themselves equipped with educated minds. I wanted to live the life of a lone wolf, after all.
Education is important.
Not many realized it.
She didn't realize it.
Miura Yumiko didn't realize it.
The girl who runs in a cloudy, grey fog chasing something that was never there only to have herself hit a brick wall due to her lack of vision. The girl who unravels a box only to find another box inside and as it continues on and on, she eventually realizes there was nothing there. Just her pointless efforts at running. Just her pointless efforts of opening box after box.
This was the girl Miura Yumiko was before.
What? Oh, right. Well for some reason I was able to...change her. Yes, me. The guy who has zero to no interaction with this girl was the one able to change her.
I can't seem to remember how it happened, because I don't think it was a big deal or an important predicament to me. But I think it went something like..
"I reaaaalllly need help from you guys on this one."
"B-but Yumiko. I don't think we could help more than we already did. I don't think it's going to work." You can think?
"Yuigahama-san's notion is supported. I don't think there is a solution in solving your request." You agreed on something that came from Yuigahama's mouth?
"E-even so, I think I just need to try a little 're almost in our last year, and I don't want to regret losing my two years for nothing." You still going on about that?
True, not giving up is a key element in achieving the things we desire. But that implies to those and only those who have a chance to achieve it. This girl doesn't.
I let out a sigh. It's ambiguous on how far someone would go to grasp something they want. How far a delicate maiden would go for someone she loves. How far Miura would go for Hayama Hayato.
I still couldn't comprehend the reason Miura would go for Hayama, other than the reason she has equal brain capacity as the other girls in the school. But I guess it's not for me to comprehend. The thing is, she couldn't.
Based on Hayama's family, that guy is definitely one of those people that is going to undergo an arranged marriage, all for the sake of maintaining business relationships. Heck, he might even marry Yukinoshita, and would't that turn into some battle royale.
But then, I wouldn't know. Expectations are that. Expectations. They are merely deductions that are made by humans about the future that they may or may not venture. They are not necessarily true and truthfully, they rarely do. For me, at least. A lot have happened around me that weren't according to my expectations. I'm still trying to get over the fact how Shiromeguri-senpai was able to carry those large books on our last study session. My expectation? Well, I expected her as a girl to be weak!
"So, please.."
It's true. Knowing that you wasted two years of your life for nothing is a distraught. But isn't it better than wasting three years of it?
"...help me."
She still has the time to back down from this. Knowing her, she would have the strength to overcome her past mistakes due to her strong dedication. It's still not too late for that.
I now let out a sigh that is audible for the others to hear, hence having their heads turn toward me. Wow, who knows a sigh is all that needed to get their attention.
I then took a deep breath. I'm really gonna do this, huh? Who knows how much injuries that would come over me after this.
"You want to know what's the right thing to do?" She didn't answer. Perhaps she knew it was rhetorical.
You wanted us to help you, right?
"Stop this."
Let me have the honor to.
Who knew what kind of nonsense I spouted after that. Even so, the things I wanted to convey surely came to her. There wasn't much to say actually. I just acknowledged her about the chances of her being with Hayama and the things she needs to do to overcome her mistake. That is, educate herself. With that she has something to get herself busy with and help herself stand strong if there is no helping hand.
One might say that I'm being stupid. Or selfish, at some point. But judging from the two stupidly beautiful faces from the two girls...
...I knew I couldn't be more right.
"You really daze a lot, huh?" What's with that knowing face?
"What do you mean? You just saw me daze once today. Which is right now."
"You did it in class just now." She said while kneeling down, adjusting her shoelace.
"How did you find the time to look at me in class? Must've been so bored, huh?" I asked while trying not to sound like I was teasing her, because would't that disgust her. And I don't want to handle a disgusted Miura.
It took a bit of time for me to realize that she 's still kneeling down, event though her shoelace is already tied.
"What's wrong?" I asked in curiosity. After that, she replied with a slight shriek and having herself stand up.
"A-anyways, let's go. Can't waste too much time here when the time's ticking..." She replied with a visible tinge of pink on her face. Since when do time stop ticking?
...
I looked down at the floor she was kneeling on. Was there something that made Miura blush there? Or did she just remember something embarrassing?
After a moment, I decided to not care and followed the girl who is currently making her way to the tennis court. As always, the court is as isolated as ever despite the chirps and talks from countless students near it. That fact, is something I couldn't comprehend. How can the tennis court be isolated when the school is inhabited by hundreds of students. Or they know that I am a loyal customer and doesn't want to be near my repulsive appearance? Or they know that the tennis player who plays for the prefecture is also a loyal customer and doesn't want to get in her way?
The both of us stood in front of the court with determined looks adorned on our faces. No, scratch that. Adorned on her face. I still wish I was at my lunch spot eating Komachi's handmade bento.
"What's our score again?"
"You're leading." I answered with a tone of annoyance thinking that she was boasting.
"That didn't answer my question."
"...20 - 19." After I answered, she said with a smirk,
"You trying to cheat, Hikio? That's not manly, you know." Shit. Right when I thought I could close the gap.
"If you know then why ask?" I said with a grumble.
"Hehehe, no reason. Just wanted to hear what you would say. And as for lying to me…"
After the words flow from her mouth, I felt her fingers touch the at the side of my stomach. I couldn't help feeling flustered at the touch.
And agonizingly pained at the same time.
"Oww! That really hurts~!" Seriously, Charlie that was painful!
"Just giving you a lesson about the consequences for lying to me."
"Does it really have to be a pinch to the stomach though." I rubbed my stomach hoping it would cure the pain.
"You're lucky I didn't think about doing something else, you know?" She said while cracking her knuckles. Real scary, and that wasn't sarcasm talking.
"For that, thank you."
"You're welcome."
...
This made me look like a masochist.
After that, we did a slight warm up before having our match.
"I'd warn you, Hikio. I wont play easy on you this time. After the month we've played I'm pretty sure I have found a way to counter attack your balls." What's with that misuse of words?! Definitely adding to the list of cons of communication.
"Yeah, yeah." I answered, stretching my right hand to the left.
Not long after I finished my warm-up, I looked at Miura to see if she's done with hers. Looks like she haven't done with her arm, huh? I watched as Miura brought her arms straight up above her head, making her upper part visible.
Instinctively, I jerked my head to the left, pretending I was enjoying the beautiful that the school definitely lack of. Yes, I somehow disobey Bewbton's Law of Phytits.
Finally when I somehow see her bring her arms down due to my peripheral vision, I changed my view back to her. Only to see that she's already staring at me.
Is there something on my face?
I decided to not care much about it and stoically said...
"Well, let's get started then."
"Y-Yeah..."
We walked to our respective positions, hands firmly gripping the tennis racket. The winds suddenly stopped blowing giving off a vibe that an epic battle is going to occur.
Looks like I can't use it to my advantage, huh?
Well, yet.
After putting my blazer at the nearest bench, I proceeded folding my sleeve to my elbow while Miura waits for my ordeal as she rests her racket on her elbow.
How long have we been doing this? A month, if I recall. I barely reminisce the day when we had our first tennis match. Obviously, it was her idea. The next week after 'solving' her request, damn girl suddenly came to my lunch spot and challenged me to a tennis match. I know, if I were to follow my principles I would and should have refused. But there was something at her that opted me to accept her challenge. Whether it was her determination adorned on her face or her unwavering confidence, I don't know.
But I'm pretty sure it was the MAX Coffee that she brought on tow. How she knew of my obsession toward MAX Coffee is still unbeknownst to me. Nonetheless, I accepted her challenge and this became a weekday activity. Except, no more MAX.
"Hurry up, Hikio." She spoke, tapping her toes indicating her impatience.
"Sorry." I took the racket back and walk toward my position on the court.
Playing a full game of tennis would result to a play in a longer interval, resulting to getting back to class late, resulting to a punch to the stomach. To me, that is. The girl got a karate chop to the head. Yes, this happened after our first match when none of us were known to the consequence of playing a full game.
Hence, we decided to play only one set of tennis to prevent the bad end. So far, this plan have worked out pretty well. Though there are those times when she wanted to play another set despite the chop she was going to receive mainly because I won the game.
Being the gentleman that I totally am, I threw the tennis ball to her side of the court, showing she could take the first serve.
"Ladies first." I said with a tone of indifference.
"Haaah?" She said with a tone of anger that is itching to show its appearance.
...I just stepped on a landmine didn't I?
"Are you trying to say that I'm weak Hikio, that you're letting me take the first serve?"
"No, I meant nothing like th-"
"That I have no chance of winning, is that what you're trying to say?"
"Again, that was nothing of my intenti-"
"For your information I won 20 of our matches, Hikio. My quota is even more than you."
"I thought it was a proper thing t-"
"Fairly is how we're going to do it. And the way to do that is this." She said as she brought her hands on her shoulder.
Sigh. That goes to show when I try to show my non-existent chivalry. I didn't know why I even bother. This happened way to many times that I even lost count. I also didn't know how we could even talk clearly with the long distance between each other.
As I thought that, I followed suit bringing my right hand to its shoulder.
"Rock. Paper..." She chanted as she brought her hand up-and-down following the rhythm.
"Scissors!" I sighed.
And as always, I somehow became immune to losing this stupid game, won another one against Miura.
I looked at the tennis ball as it slightly rolls itself at Miura's side of the court. Then, I took a glance at the blond girl.
"W-Whatever..." She said in a low voice that even I could barely hear. I watched as she picked up the tennis ball from the ground soon walking back to her position.
"You ready?" she asked while bouncing the tennis ball, slightly crouching.
"Whenever you are." I readily pose my stature similar to those getting ready to receive a serve.
Having to play a tennis match daily with this girl, it somehow sharpen my skill in receiving a serve - and tennis in a whole. Especially receiving a serve from someone who plays for the prefecture. And wouldn't that bring some benefit to me. It made me become a better opponent and to a certain point, it benefits her too.
Mutualisme.
Soon after, she stopped bouncing the tennis ball and stood at her position with a thinking face. She even dropped her stature, indicating she's not going to serve anytime soon.
"What's wrong?" I asked, also dropping my stature.
"Wanna try something new?" What's with people wanting and doing new things today?
"What is it?" I asked with slight interest, because truthfully I wanted to hear it too.
She answered with a grin…
"A bet."
Nope.
"Nope."
"Why not?!"
"Too exhausting."
"Aww! It doesn't have to be something big."
"Like what?" If I am going to follow suit, I seriously need to know what this is all about.
Not saying that I will lose this match. But...
Uuhh whatever...
"Well, we could uumm.." She said while having herself to a thinking pose. Her hair flutters as her drills moves with her body.
No, Hachiman. That is not cute at all.
"Hah!"
As an idea popped in her head, she exclaimed...
"Whoever loses this game, has to by the winner a drink."
That's... not bad. That is not even half bad. In fact, it was intriguing. Nothing beats free food. And nothing beats MAX Coffee. But what about free MAX?!
Eternally unbeatable!
"Fine." I said while trying not to let my excitement show.
"It's a deal then! See, it would've been easier if you just accepted, Hikio." You're saying like I could prevent this if I refused.
And with that, she is back to her posture. Seconds after, I followed suit.
"Looks like I'm going to go harder on you." She said while giving off a certain menacing aura.
"I would say the same to you." It's not like this is the first time I'm having a match with her. She can be a hard opponent to beat, but she's not unbeatable. Not when there's a strong desire for free MAX on my side.
"Humph." She smiled at my response with a challenging look on her face. Soon after, she stopped bouncing the ball as she gripped it firmly with her hands. As she did so the wind again abruptly stopped or it is just me making it up so this match would sound epic.
"Ready your pocket money, Hikio!" She exclaimed as she threw the tennis ball lightly to the air with her right hand waiting to release its power.
I can't afford but slightly smile to her unwavering confidence and will to win this match. I find it contagious because the desire to win this suddenly affected me.
I focused as she brought her right hand with full force to the tennis ball.
I want to win this.
"Bring it on."
What makes something – or at a certain aspect, a match – entertaining? Though there are certain factors that can be put up to debate, such as the location of the game, the atmosphere of the game, or the game itself, the factor that would always be taking the cake is the players in it.
Though there are some sports that I find entertaining, tennis as an example, imagine yourself spectating or playing a match which shows a player with zero to no sportsmanship. Seeing a player yell like an idiot whenever the referee said the ball was in or having themselves turn into a prime time dramatic actor when they got hit by a 'crucial' tackle, will – at some point - make you feel annoyed.
Or you would be like me where I just turned the channel on the tv because that is something I hate the most at play right there.
Lies and deceit.
So despite the unwavering love you have towards a game or a sport, it is always the players you see play and those you play with that makes the game and sport enjoyable.
And right now, it is not right for me to say I don't feel even slightly enjoyable.
"Yes! That's another game for me!" She spoke out loud without any indication that she needs extra inhale of air. How much stamina does this girl even have?
"What's wrong, Hikio? I feel like you're slightly easier to beat this 8th game. Or is it because you're monologuing again?" What?!
"Uuuhh.. no. And what do you mean by 'again'?"
"Well, I just have a feeling you do it every time we have our match. You would usually do it at this time of the match too." You're already considering that I monologue every time we had our match.
I gave her a shrug on my shoulder as to portray my denial.
"Well, the faster we finish this I guess the better. Can't wait to have my free-of-charge soy bean." Heh. What?
"You're talking like you're going to win the game." I phrased with a mischievous smile that made its way on my face.
"Huh? I'm not?" She taunted while sparing a glance to me.
"For your information, the score's currently 5-4."
"Yes. And for your information, I'm not letting you catch up to me."
Soon after that statement, she held her racket parallel to her vision aiming at my self.
"I'm going to end the game first, Hikio." Looks like someone really wants a free soy bean.
I smiled at her determination on winning this match. Well, I guess that's to be expected. I won our last one after all. The taste of victory must've been she something she craved after that match.
Soon I have myself bend down to receive another one of her powerful serve.
"Well... try."
0 – 0
"What was that about not letting me catch up to you?"
"Hmph. That was one point, Hikio. Not the game."
"Well, it is about to be."
"In your dreams."
0 – 15
"Aww, come on! That was too strong, though. How was I suppose to get that?!"
"…That was not strong. You're just we-"
"…"
"…Nevermind."
"Thought so."
0 – 30
"Oww!"
"…"
"Uummm, Miura-san. Are you trying to hit me with the ball or scoring a point?"
"Both."
15 – 30
"Wow. I don't think I would see you celebrate scoring a point like that ever again, Hikio."
"What do you mean?"
"Well, you actually pumped a fist. That was a pretty good shot."
"No, I wasn't. And don't see me like I am some underling."
"Of course you didn't. And no, I will always see you as an underling."
15 – 40
"Are you doing okay, underling?"
"Yeah, I'm fine."
"…"
"...Did I just answer to that?"
"Hahaha!"
30 – 40
Both of us now were already letting the anaerobic respiration take over our body. Our panting now become visible as we finished our last play.
"Well… at least you've… tried." I said while trying to overcome my panting.
"Keep the boasting… to yourself. I just gave you a chance, Hikio. It wouldn't be fun if… the scores wasn't tied." She phrased between her inhales and exhales.
"Well, fine then." I stood up straight finally regaining my composure.
After that, she followed suit with a gaze that suits her personality toward me.
"Let's finish this." I phrased with certainty.
"You're talking like you're going to win the game." Heh. What?
"I'm not?"
"For your information, the score is currently 5–5."
"Yes. And for your information I a-" Wait. What?
As I realized the gravity of our conversation, I see Miura had a smile plastered on her face.
"Heh. You're using my lines, Hikio. That's copyright, you know?" Thus I couldn't help but put on a smile either.
"Touche'." Her smile became wider at my response. I don't know why but I felt calm at that.
"Anyways…" She managed to say between giggles.
Yeah.
"Let's finish this." We phrased in unison.
This is the last game we're going to have today. And this is the game that will determine the winner. Also this is the game that will determine the wielder of the free-of-charge, cold, mouth-watering beverage.
0 – 0
Thus, this game is more intense than ever. No more jokes were being said to each other to lighten the atmosphere. No more smiles being adorned on the faces to to give off the equal motive.
15 - 0
Just the sound of the breaths and pants and the slightly audible wind as it is yet to come.
15 – 15
Not to mention the growls and grumbles.
15 – 30
Mostly from her.
30 – 30
Scratch that. It came a lot from me as well.
"Yes!" Miura exclaimed as she jumped slightly due to scoring the point after an insane hit toward my left side of the court.
I watched helplessly as the ball made its way at high velocity, bouncing to the nearby bushes. Eventually, the tennis ball got stuck inside the bush.
"Oh, sorry about that, Hikio. I'll go ge-"
"No, no. It's fine."
I walked to the bush as I heard a faint "Okay then." from the back of my head. As I got near it, I inspected the bush to see where the tennis ball eventually got itself stuck at. Soon after, I saw my target.
It got itself a bit deep inside the bush, huh? But I guess it's still reachable. Might as well give it a try.
I utilized my left hand to get a grasp of the tennis ball. After extending my used hand, I randomly touch the inside parts of the bush, hoping that I would eventually get a grasp of that troublesome ball. I can't really see where I'm even touching right now.
Somehow, my receptors are able to send the stimulus of my hand touching the fabric of the tennis ball. I grasped the tennis ball firmly as to not let it venture deeper into the bush.
Yup. Finally got i-
Ouch.
As I pulled my hand out of the bushes, I felt a tinge of pain on my pinky finger. After getting my left hand out, I inspected the source of that pain.
Damn. Of course those bushes have thorns there. The cut's quite deep too.
"Is something wrong, Hikio?" She said as she started walking toward my location.
Oh well.
"It's nothing." No big deal. Though it is a bit painful, I don't think it's going to disrupt my game when there's not much time to play left.
I walked toward my position after getting the blood from my wound away with my trousers. After reaching there, I saw Miura staring at me with an unpredictable face. It's like I am something of the unknown and she is trying to solve the mystery.
"Well…" I phrased as I started feeling uncomfortable at her stare.
She seems to regain her composure as she started bending down getting ready for my serve after walking back to her position.
"Yup, I'm ready. Bring it on, Hikio." She said as her competitive aura came back to its rightful owner.
I slightly smiled at that. A good thing I didn't decide to take the tennis ball with my dominant hand, or Miura might've find out. And my stomach might again become a pinching bag!
Soon after, I threw the ball lightly up in the air and the play starts again.
...
Well, soon after the play stops. Like, too soon.
"Wha- Hikio! You could serve that fast?!" Miura exclaimed loudly as she looked at me with a dumbfounded expression.
Truthfully, I am kind of bewildered too. That was like the only service ace in the game. And who knew it took an injury on my left hand to let me have an ace serve.
Well, whatever it is I scored a point.
30 – 40
Not to mention it was a…
"Set point." I said with a proud tone to show that I am serious about taking this victory.
"Hmph! You think I couldn't make it a deuce, Hikio? You're not going to win this." A firm tone was used in her words as she gets ready for my next serve.
"Your next serve…"
Her voice being less heard as it is being overcome by the coming of the gusts of wind.
Uh-oh.
"…I'm going to stop it."
I would take that back if I were you.
And no, you couldn't make it a deuce.
Also yes, I'm going to win this.
Lastly, my next serve…
You can't stop it.
"Miura." I mouthed as I looked up in the air as my hair flutters around following its flow.
"What is it?" She asked while being mildly confused on why her name was being spoken.
I smiled at her confusion as I changed the posture of my serve. My smile grew wider as I could barely see her eyes growing wider as she saw my sudden change. Of course she knows what I'm about to do. I did this too many times that I've lost counted. Did it in our very first match too.
I threw the ball to the air while having the smile still attached on my face.
"Make sure it's cold."
As cold as this.
The next thing I knew, I've hit the ball to the air that would eventually descent by the pull of gravity.
"No. Don't you d- Hikio!" She managed to stammer as she clumsily running randomly on her court trying to predict where the ball was going to descent.
While she does that, I walked my way to the bench while looking briefly at my wound. Soon after, I have myself seated and enjoying the view of the high-tier tennis player trying to receive the unpredictable serve.
Soon after…
"Damn it!" She cried as she lays on the court while the tennis ball still bouncing on the court.
Wait. What? Oh my goodness. Oooohhhhhh myyyyy…
"Oww! Seriously?!"
Goodnessssss! That was seriously the icing on the cake! I tried hard to suppress my laughter after the ball had Miura's forehead as something to bounce on.
I watched as Miura patted her forehead while letting out a cry that was too cute for her own good. Like seriously, too cute.
Soon after, she walked toward my direction…
"Whatever, Hikio. You won." She said while bringing out a small bag from her blazer on the bench. Must've been where she puts her pocket money. Yup.
"Yeah. Fair and square." She lets out a growl at that.
"Fair and square, my ass. How is that serve even remotely close to fair?" She brings out several coins from the said bag.
"I don't see breaking any regulations or rules of tennis by doing that serve." I gave her my response.
"Well, there should be regulations and rules about that." She phrased while wearing her blazer. Well, ain't that a good thing to do? You might've given some people a nosebleed because of the sweat and all, some body parts of yours are a bit exposed especially your-
I, don't have to go to deep about that right?
"Wait here, okay?" She said which sounded more like it was an more of an order. I nodded to her as my response.
As she made her way to the nearest vending machine, she abruptly stopped and turned back to me…
"You'll wait, right?"
…What's with that tone? You made it sound like you were hoping for me to wait. And it's not like I have anywhere to go.
"Of course. It's not like I have anywhere else I need to go right now." I answered with a tone of assurance.
And with that, she continued making her way to the vending machine. Not to mention still looking behind every now and then to check if I was still here. Seriously, if this was some other guy he would've misunderstood by now. She's just want to fulfill her bet is all.
As I waited for her return, I looked at the sky to figure out what to think about in my next monologue session.
The wind clearly makes its way in the atmosphere accompanied by the sound that follows its trails of path.
"Oh."
The sound of the voice suddenly woke me from my trance as I opened my eyes to see the being that disrupted my tranquility.
Soon after, I regretted my decision.
The being currently in front of me was the prince of Sobu himself. Putting his hands on his pockets like some wealthy businessman with his fellow companions beside hi-
Wait? This is weird. This is truly a rare ordeal. Right in front of me, the prince of Sobu standing majestically outside of the tennis court on his own.
Hayama Hayato was on his own.
We stared at each there as if we were on a staring contest with only the gates of the tennis court becoming an obstacle. If Ebina was here she would've misunderstood and have the largest nosebleed in the entire fujoshi history.
After that, a gust of wind kicked in. And the chirps of the inhabitants becoming less heard.
"Soo, I guess you expect an apology."
"Haha. What for, Hikitani-kun?"
"I just got rid of your barrier. A peaceful life might've been hard for you to achieve now?"
"Well, I guess I was a bit irritated. But, she still interacts with me. Some of them might not see the difference."
"Someday, they will."
"Then I guess it's for the best. It might lessen the sense of guilt I have. Using her… it was not the right thing thing to do."
"Damn right it wasn't."
"…Yeah."
"So, what do you want me for?"
"I wanted to thank y-"
"Don't bother. I did nothing to be thankful for."
"Keep telling yourself that."
"I will."
"Well then…"
"..."
"See you, Hikigaya."
"Quite a rare sight here."
"I told them I was going to the bathroom." He seems to figure out what I meant.
"I expected them to still follow you despite that."
"Well, if you insisted, then they would give up and you know…"
"Let you be alone for awhile."
"Yeah."
"…Well, they don't want to anger the prince of Sobu High, right?"
"Spare me the compliments."
"That wasn't one."
He giggled at that.
"Well then…"
He gave me a smile that was able to melt the hearts of hundreds of high school girls. Or at least, that was the rumor I've heard.
"See you, Hikigaya."
His smile was so repulsive that if we were alone right now I would've thrown this tennis ball at him.
Oh, wait.
"Oww! What was that for?!" He said as he rubbed his back trying to sooth the pain.
"No reason." I said as I changed my line of sight toward the court.
There was quite a visible silence after that. But then…
"An eye for an eye, Hikigaya."
"What does that suppose t- BWAAH!" I spouted as I felt an overwhelming pain on my back.
As I turned back while massaging my back, I saw him walking to the school building with his arms waving to my direction.
Wow, aren't you cool?
Uuhhh. I really need a comforter right now. In other words, MAX Coffee. Talking about MAX, why is Miura taking so long? If she was a bit early, this pain on my back might wouldn't have existed.
Speaking of the devil…
"Sorry for being late. Got caught up on something." She mouthed as she jogged toward my bench with two bottle of cans.
"It's fine." Of course, it's not fine. What were you even caught up into?
She lets out a sigh to relief her exhaustion as she have herself seated beside me on the bench.
Which made me slightly uncomfortable because she was too close to me for comfort. And I can't move because I'm at the end of the side of the bench.
After that, she took her blazer off and puts it behind her on the bench.
Which made me more uncomfortable! Why did she suddenly decide to take the blazer off now. She wore it when she was buying the drinks. Or is this her way on telling me to leave? But knowing Miura she would just say it straight away.
For now, I guess I'll do my best to ignore it. The sweat and her unbuttoned top button makes her collarbone more visible to the eye. Not to mention her clear thighs as it glistened under the rays of the sunlight.
…Didn't I just say I'll do my best to ignore it?
I watched as Miura brought out the cans from the plastic.
"Sorry for the wait." She said as she brought the cans out. Then I realized…
"You bought two MAXs?"
"Yeah." Are you an angel, Miura-san?! How did you bestow such a generous offer to a being lik-
"Oh. I bought one for each."…
"Ohh.."
"I wanted to try if it's really that good. It should because this was what got you to play our first match." She said while handling one of the cans.
"It is." I said with an assuring tone.
"Here." She showed me one of the cans for me to take. Apparently, she gave it nearer to my left hand as if she was intending to do it. Nonetheless, I received it with said hand.
As if instantly, I see my hand being preyed by a pair of slender, smooth fingers.
"Gotcha!" She exclaimed as she got hold of my hands firmly, making sure I'm not able to pull it away.
"W-what are you doing?" I managed to phrase. I was somewhat flustered due to the sudden touch. Also uncomfortable because it was rare for me to make contact with a girl's hands. Yeah, pretty sure the damn riajuu's do this all the time.
I watched as she inspected my left hand, moving it upside down with her soft and white fingers. It is almost as if she's tying to see if there's an injury or something.
Oh, wait.
"I knew it." She used her thumb to indicate the injury that the bush left me. I couldn't retain the pain as I slightly twitch my eye as she makes contact with it. Miura gazed up to me after seeing my slight pain.
Albeit a soft one. She sighed softly as she brings her hand to one of her blazer's pockets.
"You juuust have to get yourself in trouble when I'm out of bandages, huh Hikio?" She spoke as she brought a bandage out from the pockets. Wait, so that means…
"You went to the store to buy this?" I asked in mild confusion.
"Yeah. I saw you twitching a bit when you're trying to get that ball out of the bush. Thought you got cut by a thorn there or something. So I asked you if there's something wrong." She explained as she opened the bandage gracefully.
"So when I heard you said you were fine…" She again grab hold of my left hand with her left.
"…I knew I was right."
Tch. Looks like she knew I was lying. Seriously there are a lot of people that I can't lie around me now. I really need to work on sharpening that skill.
"Thank you, Miura. But you don't have to force yourself." I said, trying not to sound arrogant because I was truly grateful for her consideration. But she doesn't have to do this out of will.
There was silence accompanying us as Miura didn't give an answer to my gratitude. She just continued wrapping the bandage on my pinky finger with care that I shouldn't ever deserve. Though I can hear a slight hum from her as she treats my injury.
Soon after, my finger was all wrapped and hopefully that was fast enough to prevent foreign bacterias from invading my body. Though she was done treating my hand, Miura was still holding it albeit more softly now. I felt as she smoothly and slowly grind her fingers with mine with a face I cannot decipher.
Being slightly uncomfortable with the touch – and embarrassed at the same time – I spoke…
"Miura?" I looked at her confusingly.
"Hm? O-Oh, right. S-Sorry." She stuttered as she reflexively brings her hand to her thighs.
I looked at my now treated hand thinking if there was something there that made her remember something melancholy or of her past.
I decided to not care for now and enjoy the warm breeze that the world offered to us right now.
I guess playing only one set of tennis was a good idea, because we would have the time to sit back and relax for awhile before going back to the home room. Awkward was not the way to describe the atmosphere because doing this is now a part of a daily thing. Miura swaying her head slowly left and right while humming a catchy tune justifies that.
I decided to start a conversation with a question that I've been wanting to ask…
"Sooo, I'm sorry if this is none of my business…" Miura dropped her gaze to me waiting for what I wanted to say.
"But… How's your studies coming along?" She gave me a warm smile after my question that I had to stop myself from being visibly flustered.
"I guess it's going pretty well. Though my results have to do the talking." She giggled.
"Then it is going pretty well. You scored pretty well on our trials."
"But I'm still a number below you though."
"If you're thinking about beating me, then you're going to have to only imagine that to happen."
"We'll see, Hikio." She said as her head held high.
We shared a giggle after that talk, albeit mine wasn't as loud as hers. I proceeded to opening the lid of my bride-to-be while seeing her doing the same ordeal.
"So, you took MAX? I thought you said you wanted a soy bean?" I asked managing myself to open the lid.
"Oh this? Well, I was kinda wondering how it tastes like. It must've been quite good because this is the thing that got you to budge when I challenged you for our first match."
"Well, it is. How did you even know I liked this drink in the first place?"I asked as I took a sip.
"If you're implying that I have been watching you then you're terribly wrong, Hikio." She answered with a stern tone though it is a bit different than when she gets angry. But seriously…
"I didn't think that or anything remotely close to that." That is only something that would be thought by the simple-minded Hikigaya in middle school. But now I am me.
"G-Good." She somewhat stuttered.
Soon after, we were back to our peaceful silence, enjoying the cold breeze. Though it is less peaceful for me because I have to prevent my mind from wandering dangerous imaginations as Miura leaned herself on the bench, making her assets visible.
This girl. Doesn't she like see me over here? I'm right beside her too. The scent of sunflower that currently inhabits her is clearly captured by my nose. I'm now pretty sure Yuigahama's carelessness is contagious.
As I checked my watch, I realized there are 5 minutes to go until our recess ends.
"Let's go. Homeroom's starting." I said to the currently leaning Miura with my gaze looking a the tennis court other than her.
As to that, she got up with a sigh and a stretched her body. Then, she took huge piece of clothing from the bench and wore the blazer.
Oh, now you decided to where it? Why don't just carry it to class? Not that I still want to see more of her… that. But I want justice to be prevailed. I don't want only my hormones to be damn tested.
"Well, let's go then." She phrased as she finished doing her blazer.
Now then, on to the usual…
"You can go ahead. I think I'm gonna take some more fresh air." I don't think explaining this matter again would be a necessity.
After my statement, she abruptly stopped her actions and looked me with a confirming stare. There was quite a silence while we were having our stare. Soon after, her lips moved...
"If I say that I don't give a damn what other people say, then would you come with me?" She said with a strong tone that it had me taken aback. Not only to the fact of her commanding tone, but how she realized what I was intending to do.
…But still, no. I don't want to take that risk. People seeing us play tennis everyday would've caused such rumors. Seeing us going back to class not in pairs is the only factor that can make those rumors go down.
"No, it's fine." I said with a stretch. "It's just I really wanted a bit more fresh air."
She didn't answer nor retort at my decision. With that, she just sighed and have herself stand up. Seriously you're making it look like we're some couple in secret or something.
"Well, then…" She looked back to me with her head looking down because I was sitting.
"…I'll see you again, Hikigaya." With a God knows how warm smile on her face.
…I still don't get why people still call me names even though they knew my real one.
"You can call me that by now." I offered.
"Nah, Hikio sounds way better." She declined with a giggle.
"I'm the only one, right?"
"What do you mean?"
"O-Oh, no I mean I am- Am I the only one calling you 'Hikio'?"
"No doubt about that. No one else would've come up with such a stupid name."
I was expecting a death-inducing glare, or a death-inducing punch to the stomach, but instead I see another smile that would melt even the strongest of hearts.
"Bye then, Hikio. Make sure to treat that properly when you get home. I don't want to have to fight with a disabled tomorrow." She stated as she jogged to the school building.
Soon after, she was out of sight and a smile came to my face.
"Got it, ma'am."
I was about to get up to leave the now isolated area of the court, when I saw a small bag on the bench.
I sighed. Looks like someone forgot something of her belonging.
*Ring**Ring*
The school bell rings clarity indicating the end of school and the start of the activity of clubs and the walk to home. Oh, how I wish I am one of those in the latter. Reluctantly, I have myself seated straight after taking that short nap while giving off a slight yawn.
After that I shoved the books that are currently on my table into my bag.
What subject was it just now? Was it Maths? I think it was M-
Ow.
While I was thinking that, I felt shoulder be in contact with an object that was moving to it in high velocity. Though it is not fast enough to be painful.
I looked to my left with my right hand covering my left arm. With a glare that could send off any human being in this world away from sight, afraid of my appearance. Though there are some people that this glare would never be effective on.
And unfortunately, this girl is one of them.
This clumsy, idiotic, pink-haired, noisy, dumb girl.
"Come on, Hikki!"
Conversation with Miura
12:00 PM
Miura : Hikio! Do you have any idea who put my pocket money on my table?
Me : No.
Miura : I seriously thought I've lost it.
Me : Again, no. And what made you think I know who put it there?
Miura : Well, you would always look at our side of the table like some stalker. I thought you would see it while you were doing your disturbing habit. Reaaally disturbing habit.
Me : ...What kind of person do you take me for?
Miura : A stalker.
Me : Whatever.
Miura : Was it you who put it there, Hikio?
Me : What makes you say that?
Miura : No reason.
Me : ...No, it wasn't.
Miura : Someone is going to get a pinch to the stomach.
Me : Shit!
I…seriously have nothing to say about this one. Other than the fact this is the longest chapter I've made and I just wrote whatever was on my mind. THAT, my fellow readers is my weakness. I'm so sorry if I left a bad taste after reading this but I admit, this chapter was bad for me. I seriously don't know what I was writing.
Anyways, as always plzzzzzzzzzzzz leave a review and I'll see you on the next one.
Sorry.