A Love Under the Maple Trees
Summary: You know that saying when one door closes another one opens? Yes... Well... Daidouji Ai never expected that door to literally slam her in the face. Ai was determined to blend in and leave her past behind, to live out her life as an ordinary high school student. But one encounter with an arrogant and rude boy who mistakenly accuses her of being one of his fan girls ends up opening all kinds of troubles into her life, along with untold secrets, connections, and a past she just wants to move forward from.
Disclaimer: I do not own Slam Dunk or any of the characters in the franchise. I'm simply borrowing them to feed into my delusions and crush on the characters. I do own my OCs introduced in this fanfic.
Author's Note: PLEASE bear with me for any poor grammar in my writing as English is not my first language. As well for the characters being a little OOC, after all, this is fanfiction so I'm just writing what I want. Characters will be introduced, Last Name, First Name in the story. But I'll be addressing my OC's by their first name since I feel that would be easier.
Name: Ai means "love" in Japanese.
Surname: Daidouji means "big/great." (大) (dai), "road" (道) (dou) and "temple" (寺) (ji).
Class President: (F) Sanae Yamamoto (早苗 山本) - Sanae means "clever" and "bright."
Vice President: (F) Emi Watanabe (恵美 渡辺) - Emi means "blessing" and "beauty."
Secretary: (F) Kana Kobayashi (佳奈 小林) - Kana means "excellent" and "kind."
Treasurer: (M) Yuta Shimizu (優太 加藤) - Yuta means "gentle" or "kind."
"Open Speech"
'Inner thoughts'
"French"
CHAPTER 1
Shohoku High
3rd Third POV
It was lunch break, and Ai was currently enjoying the cool spring breeze, writing in her book as she listened to music. The school rooftop was a sanctuary of solitude, a place Ai could escape the noise and chaos of the hallways below. She often comes here to think, to breathe, and to find a moment of peace. However, her serenity was soon interrupted by the constant chattering of fangirls from the 1st-year building, loud enough to hear even over her earphones.
"Where is he?"
"This is usually where he takes his naps."
"Are you sure you saw him here?"
"What if he's having lunch elsewhere?"
Ever since the beginning of this school year, Ai couldn't help but overhear the fangirl's excited giggles over a certain boy whom they were all infatuated with. While she normally wasn't one to pay attention to such trivial matters, the constant noise was beginning to encroach on her moment of solitude. As the girl's fervent discussion continues going over the same topic over and over again about- about-
'What was his name again?'
Ai's mind flitted briefly trying to remember the boy's name, but it escaped her. Names were fleeting unless they were deemed important enough for her to remember, unless they involved someone, she held dear. Others were inconsequential. It wasn't important to her, so she dismissed the thought.
Unlike many of her peers, Ai had little interest in the frivolous entanglements of the heart. Her interactions with the opposite gender were few and far between, and more often than not, they led to trouble. She possessed a keen sense of discernment, always able to detect the intentions behind a man's actions towards her, whether they were of a romantic nature or more malicious intent. While Ai could maintain a façade of civility and grace in the presence of men, she made a conscious effort to limit her interactions with them to the bare necessities, eschewing any engagements that lacked purpose.
It's why she decided to forego public transportation, it was a direct result of the unwanted attention she invariably attracted during her earlier journeys. Countless encounters began innocuously enough, with strangers approaching her under the guise of seeking directions, only to segue into requests for her contact information as a gesture of appreciation for her assistance. Ai would rebuff such advances, and when met with persistent and aggressive behavior, she resorted to self-defense and turning them to the authorities. Unsurprisingly, these experiences had left her with an aversion to public transportation.
Fortunately, Ai had found a measure of solace in her newfound independence. Through diligent work at her part-time job, she had managed to acquire her own mode of transportation. With her trusty baby by her side, she was able to navigate the city on her own terms, free from the unwelcome advances and confrontations that had often marred her daily life. Another loud squeal broke her thoughts.
"Maybe that's what normal girls are like." Ai comments then tries to focus back on writing but can't with the growing noise nearby, shattering the peaceful bubble she had sought.
"Why isn't he here yet!?" one of the girls complained as she looked to her friend.
"You don't think he's out sick today?!" sounding worried.
"No! I'm sure I saw him walk into his class this morning!" the last one insisted.
Ai realizes she won't be getting any writing done, with a resigned sigh, she closes her book and gathers her papers. Deciding to make her way down to the student council room, where her friends, would be working.
'How convenient it is to have a room all to themselves.' As she made her way off the rooftop, and her hand reached the handle, the door swung open with a force that caught her off guard. It struck her squarely in the face, causing her to lose balance. Pain shot through her as she landed on her ass. Quickly composing herself, her eyes narrowed as she looked up to see who caused her fall.
Standing in the doorway was a striking figure, with disheveled raven hair and azure-blue eyes, the boy exuded a cool and aloof aura. His expression was one of annoyance rather than concern. Tall with an air of confidence that bordered on arrogance, setting him apart from his peers.
'He's got antagonize written all over him. Probably used to getting his way too,' Ai observed. 'But he also looks like…' Before she even realized it the word had subconsciously slipped out. "Chaton…"[1]
"What did you just call me?" His eyes narrowed at the term. He doesn't know what it means but it certainly felt like an insult. When the girl in front of him didn't answer, he continued, "Tch… why do you all keep following me around?" He muttered, his tone dripping with irritation.
Ai remained calm towards him, despite the pain and indignity of the fall. She slowly got to her feet, dusting off her uniform with a composed grace. Her eyes, sharp and observant taking in every detail of the boy before her.
"This building is for second-year students, and that button on your collar identifies you as a first-year. You're the one intruding and out of place here, so I suggest you don't act up unless you want me to report you to the student council." Her voice was steady and unwavering at his annoyance with her.
The boy's eyes widened slightly at her dismissive demeanor as she rebuked him. Rukawa was accustomed to girls fawning over him, no matter the age. His relatives, his mother's friends, the old ladies in his neighborhood – women just automatically showed him favor. He opened his mouth to retort, but he couldn't think of anything to say back. He knew the girl was right, and he was caught trespassing.
Rukawa now observed the older girl with curiosity as if she were a strange phenomenon, which she somewhat was. He couldn't help but take note of her features; her delicate, jade-green eyes the shape of almonds, porcelain skin, her cupid bow lips, and high cheekbones suggested a mixed heritage that likely included some European ancestry. Her hair color solidified his suspicions. You wouldn't notice it at first glance, but he could see the distinctive blonde roots peeking through her black-dyed soft wavy hair upon closer inspection. What surprised Rukawa even more was her choice of uniform. While she wore the standard female uniform of a blue blazer and a crisp white blouse, she opted for tailored slacks instead of the usual pleated skirt, as well forgo the red ribbon necktie giving her an androgynous appearance.
The two continued to stare at one another as if challenging the other. When Ai realized he had nothing to counter back, she walked passed him to leave.
Rukawa stood there, still processing the encounter. Her calm, indifferent demeanor certainly left an impression on him. "Wait…" he called out, his curiosity piqued. "What's your name?"
Ai stopped to look back at him, but instead of replying to his question, she simply remarked, "You should be more mindful of your surroundings next time," leaving the boy stunned as she walked away nonchalantly. Not noticing the boy's stare followed her until she was gone.
Student Council Conference Room
As Ai entered the office, she was greeted by the familiar sight of her friends either sitting by the table or bustling about the room. The first to notice her arrival was her best friend and classmate, the current student council president, Yamamoto Sanae, a second-year student.
"Ai, what are you doing down here? You usually prefer hanging around the rooftop while the weather is still warm," Sanae asked, lifting her gaze to look at her friend. She adjusted her glasses and tucked a strand of raven hair behind her ear before returning her focus to the paperwork.
"I do, but there were a bunch of pests lingering around," Ai explained. "I think I'll have to give up my hiding spot."
"Huh...? Pests? On the rooftop?" wondered a cute girl with brunette hair and a single braid tied to the side. This was Watanabe Emi, the vice president, who was also a second-year student. Instead of responding, Ai didn't bother to elaborate further and went ahead to take a seat.
"Oh! It must be those fangirls, right!? I guess they're camping out there to spot Rukawa Kaede!" another girl speculated. Kobayashi Kana, the first-year student secretary, had a short red bob that bounced as she excitedly spoke to her senpais.
"Who?" Ai asked as she settled down on the sofa by the window, taking out her book to continue writing.
"W-well… Rukawa-san graduated from Tomigaoka Junior High, he was formerly the team captain and a top district player. So, he's quite well known in the basketball circuit as a prodigy, Ai-senpai" Shimizu Yuta shyly explained. The treasurer, as well as the only male member of the student council. "That's why he's really popular amongst the girls."
"Is that so?" Ai replied, but she wasn't paying attention to the conversation anymore; she was more focused on writing her notes.
"Prez, aren't you even a little bit curious?" Sanae asked, wondering if her best friend would show any interest in a boy. Although she wasn't one of the fangirls, even Sanae was curious about the freshman. After all, from what she saw in his student profile, there was no denying that Rukawa Kaede was not only talented but also... Attractive.
"I requested that you refrain from referring to me in that manner. I declined that position last year; it's—"
"Yeah, yeah, I've heard it all before. It's such a hassle. I've got a part-time job. There's a shit ton of unnecessary workload—it drains so much of your energy just to keep up, overworking is no fun, I don't want extra work and just wanna go out to eat sweets," Sanae said, cutting Ai off with a sigh. She rolled her eyes dramatically, her frustration evident. "Honestly, it feels like everyone in this room is already aware of it. I mean, come on, we all know I only became President because someone else was too lazy and couldn't be bothered to take on the responsibility themselves."
"And I extend my sincere appreciation for your presence in my life, Yamamoto Sanae. Furthermore, I consistently assist you whenever you require support, do I not?" Ai defended herself with a hint of playfulness evident in her expression.
"Sure, but that usually comes after I've nagged you for hours and offered to bribe you with food to get you to agree to the deal," Sanae replied, crossing her arms with a narrow stare at Ai.
"Well, I'd like to argue that I naturally have low blood sugar levels which render these incentives more of a necessity than one might assume, especially if I'm to undertake any tasks for you," she stated with faux-innocent.
"Oh shut up. Seriously, you can be overly dramatic sometimes" Sanae rolled her eyes, with the light banter.
"Now, is this truly the language one would expect from a student council president? Also, I must clarify, no," Ai replied, her expression shifting to one of a knowing look.
"No, what?" Sanae inquired, her brows furrowing in confusion at the sudden change in topic.
Ai leaned back thoughtfully, considering her response. "To address your earlier question. No, I have no interest in the basketball prodigy that has been the subject of much discussion around the campus. Besides, I have always favored winter sports," she elaborated.
The mere mention of winter sparked excitement in Emi, who was lounging nearby. She sat up straighter, her eyes practically sparkling as she chimed in. "Did you know the male students have taken to calling you Cold-Blooded Beauty, right? It's like your unofficial title!"
"I've heard the epithet floating around," Ai replied nonchalantly, flipping a page of her book, as she slightly shrugged her shoulders.
"Of course, they meant it as an underhanded compliment," Sanae chimed in, smirking. "You're known for being quite forthright with the male students. With how coldly you reject anyone who dares to have the audacity to confess their feelings toward you."
"Doesn't it bother you, Ai-senpai?" Kana interjected, a hint of concern in her voice. Noticing her senpai shake her head at her inquiry. "I'm unaffected by the opinions of people whose existence I don't acknowledge."
"Yet despite your icy demeanor, there's still at least a handful of brave souls who muster the courage to confess to you every month, even after that catastrophic debacle from last year," Emi added, her tone animated as she leaned closer to the group, eager to gossip. Already laughing as she reminisces about their time as freshmen.
"Last year? What happened last year, senpai?" Yuta asked, his curiosity piqued, eyes bright with anticipation. As he listened to Emi.
"Can you not talk about me as if I'm not sitting right here?" Ai said, raising her right eyebrow in mock annoyance.
"Remember that third-year who confessed to Ai while she was on school duty?!" Emi exclaimed, her excitement infectious as she recounted the event with dramatic flair. "It was amazing! The whole yard turned into a scene straight out of a rom-com movie!"
FLASHBACK
Last year during Ai's 1st year at Shohoku. It was after school classes had ended and students were now heading home or attending their clubs and extracurricular activities. While others who didn't were on school duty. For today, Ai was assigned to water the plants around the campus. She was peacefully watering the flowers when an annoying voice intruded in her peace. A 3rd year with tousled brunette hair, sauntered over with an air of self-assuredness.
"Hey." The senior spoke up, his tone laced with an arrogance that failed to impress Ai. She ignored his presence, continuing her task.
"Your Daidouji Ai right? I've noticed you around the hallways during lunch." He continued bragging about himself. Glancing at him from the corner of her eye, she didn't have anything against vertically challenged people but this guy was just full of shit, the faintest hint of disdain flickering across her features, she remained composed. He boasted of his popularity, how he was an up-and-coming tennis player like he was a big shot, his words dripping with self-importance as he made assumptions about Ai and their supposed compatibility. But before he could finish his proposal, Ai pivoted with swift precision, aiming the hose at him with a precision that left him sputtering in shock. The water splashed over him, his impeccably styled clothes now sodden and clinging uncomfortably to his frame.
"WHAT THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU'RE DOING?!" The boy yells at her. But Ai's composure never wavered, her response cutting through the tirade.
"There you go senpai now you're wet maybe you'll start to grow taller. You were acting a little too tall. You can't talk down to anyone with that height. I'm not bored enough to use you as entertainment for myself, you aren't worth investing my time nor wasting my breath on." Ai dismissed him with a finality that left him reeling.
Unfazed by the confrontation, she returned to her task, the only visible reminder of the encounter a smug smile that played on her lips. The boy, red-faced and dripping, stormed off in a huff, his pride wounded and his ego deflated in the face of Ai's unyielding rejection. Humiliated even further as he realizes the soccer club, who had witnessed the entire exchange, erupted into laughter.
At the last moment before the boy was out of view, Ai adds, "Make sure to mop after yourself senpai." Which sends over the soccer team to the ground laughing.
PRESENT
Emi ends her storytelling of last year's events causing an eruption of laughter among them, while Sanae only smiled also amused by the recollection of the memory. Ai starting to feel a little shy from being at the center of attention tried to stir the topic in another direction.
"Who even came up with this name?" Ai states getting everyone to come down from their laughter.
"Dai-senpai you are so cool! I hope to grow up like you!" Kana exclaimed with her eyes sparkling with admiration for her girl crush and upperclassman.
"But Daidouji-senpai is only a year older than us Kana-san. But I agree senpai, I also admire you for standing your ground. It must be tiring for you to have to deal with that." Yuta confesses his head bowed shyly covering the rising blush on his face. He still wasn't used to being around girls since he previously went to an all-male Junior High School.
Yuta was one of the few boys with whom Ai felt at ease, allowing her to shed the layers of her meticulously guarded demeanor in his presence. Despite his attractive looks, Yuta had a gentle nature that was tinged with a hint of shyness making him all the more endearing. Not a lot of girls seem to notice and overlook how charming their timid treasurer actually is behind his thick spectacles. His gentle nature was like a breath of fresh air. His kindness was genuine, free from ulterior motives or hidden ambitions. Ai appreciated that there was no trace of romantic feelings or hidden agendas in his interactions with her.
She also found it even more cute how her male kouhai has a crush on one of her close friends, who was apparently completely oblivious to the boy's affection for her. 'I'm rooting for you, Yuta,' she thought as she watched the young boy stealing glances at Emi.
"Oh! Oh! Oh! Ai-senpai is also known as Ouji-sama, amongst the female students because of her cool beauty and princely manners!" she excitedly announced to them.
"I bet you wearing pants really nailed that image!" Emi commented as she laughed.
"What's wrong with wearing pants? They're comfortable, keep my legs warm during the cold seasons, easier to ride my bike, and protect me from unwanted attention by pervs. I see no reason to feel ashamed about my choice." Ai replied assertively, standing her ground against the teasing.
While Sanae asked, "Is it supposed to be like a play on words with Ai's surname, Daidouji to Ouji? Cute."
"Yup! I even heard some of the students came here because of Ai-senpai!" Kana admits her eyes still sparkling with excitement. "I don't blame them tho! Since you're also like a prince to me, Ai-senpai! Even I came to this school because of you," Kana gushed, her voice filled with genuine admiration for the senior she looked up to.
"That was a long time ago already and I just did what was right. Anyone would've done the same." Ai modestly waved off Kana's praise. Who she noticed was currently reminiscing over their first encounter.
FLASHBACK
Kana vividly remembered that fateful day from her junior high years, a time when the looming specter of change hung over her and her childhood friend, Ruri. As they approached graduation, the weight of their impending separation felt heavy on their hearts, especially since Ruri would soon be moving away. They promised to remain friends and keep in touch, even planning to meet up for a reunion during the next school break. However, uncertainty about how things might turn out made both friends anxious. Thus, they made the most of the time they had left together, trying to bond as much as possible before their separation.
The catalyst for their unforgettable outing was the upcoming cultural festival at the neighboring high school, an event that had captured Ruri's attention due to rumors swirling around about a renowned cool beauty gracing the school grounds. While Ruri was drawn to the allure of this mysterious figure, Kana's interest lay elsewhere, lost in the world of gaming more than idle gossip. She was really starting to garner a huge number of followers and was even emailed by a gaming company to work as a personal tester in their game development department. It's been a week and she hasn't replied to them since, Kana wasn't sure if it was legitimate or a scam, and while she was pondering over it she started to feel sick for a whole week and today was the day for the cultural festival. But despite the onset of illness, Kana chose to push through, unwilling to disappoint her best friend.
The duo planned to have fun together by attending Shohoku High's cultural festival, immersing themselves in the vibrant decorations, the mature energy of being surrounded by high schoolers, the tapestry of events, culinary delights, and colorful fun booths scattered across the campus. However, with each step, Kana could feel her condition deteriorating, her strength waning until the world around her blurred, and darkness threatened to claim her consciousness. She remembered Ruri yelling out in horror while she fell backward on the stairs.
Kana braced herself for the inevitable impact of the unforgiving floor, strong arms enveloped her, preventing her descent. Blinking through the haze of disorientation, Kana found herself gazing up at a captivating figure, unmistakably feminine yet exuding an air of princely grace. Her piercing emerald eyes had her hypnotized along with her hazel hair that was slicked back as she was clad in a butler's attire, for the festival, the mysterious girl peered down at Kana with genuine concern, her demeanor a mix of poise and compassion.
In a swift motion, the enigmatic girl scooped Kana into her arms, with Ruri trailing behind as they made their way to the school clinic. With the absence of the school doctor, the caring stranger took it upon herself to tend to Kana's needs, administering a cooling pack for her forehead and feeding her medicine, all with gentle expertise. It was then that she introduced herself as Daidouji Ai, her presence a soothing balm amidst Ruri's worry, Kana's distress, and discomfort, marking the beginning of her admiration for the older girl and developing a small girl crush. Kana's eyes shone with sincerity as she recounted the memory etched in her heart when Ai had come to her rescue.
PRESENT
"You were my savior, my prince in shining armor! Talking to you now feels like a dream come true senpai! My classmates are absolutely green with envy because of it! A lot of the girls thought you looked so cool in your butler uniform from last year!" Kana's gratitude overflowed, her admiration for Ai spilling into the air.
Ai accepted Kana's words, her stoic facade melting away momentarily at her cute kouhai's antics to reveal a rare, genuine smile that lit up the room. Unbeknownst to Ai, Kana's internal fangirl squeals, overwhelmed by the sight of her idol's radiant expression. 'KYAAAAAAAAAA IT'S ONE OF AI-SENPAI'S RARE SMILES!'
Just then, Emi settled beside Ai on the plush couch, enveloping her in a warm hug that radiated genuine affection for her close friend. "Well, whatever they're calling you, it doesn't really matter. To us, you'll always be our beloved tsun-tsun Ai-chan!" she exclaimed, her eyes sparkling with mischief.
"Just because I'm not nice to everyone doesn't mean I'm a tsundere, Emi." Ai retorted, her voice steady despite the annoyance that was simmering in her eyes. While her expression remained composed and stoic, Emi couldn't help but chuckle softly. The sound only served to deepen Ai's glare, a mix of exasperation and mock indignation that made Emi laugh even the corner of her mouth twitched, betraying a hint of amusement.
"It's true that Ai exudes a princely aura," Emi continued, her tone now teasingly serious, "but her understanding of what's common or normal is just a touch... skewed."
"No, it's not. Ce n'est pas vrai du tout.[2]" Ai argued firmly, furrowing her brows in disbelief at her friend's incredulity.
Sanae, sitting nearby, chimed in with a grin, "Your perspective on money alone would take a whole week to unpack, Ai. That's just how unconventional your spending habits truly are." She added with a playful smirk, "And let's not forget, you're just as clumsy and temperamental."
"I'm not!" Ai shot back instantly, a defensiveness in her tone. Her quick denial only served to reinforce her friends' points, sending Emi into another fit of laughter. A gentle coo escaped Emi as she watched Ai's indignant expressions, her heart swelling with affection for how adorably cute she could be in moments of playful frustration.
'AHAHAHA If your fans could see you now! You cute tsundere!' Emi thought to herself as she tried to hold back her laughter.
"Anyway… Just tell us if anyone harasses you," Sanae chimed in, her words laced with reassurance and protective concern for her best friend. 'But then again I don't think you really need it. If only they knew how Coldblooded you can actually be.' we're Sanae's thoughts but she decided to keep that comment to herself.
"Pas de souci [3], it doesn't bother me. Mais merci [4], I do appreciate you all having my back." Ai replies with gratitude.
In the midst of the playful banter, Ai found her heart swelling with gratitude for the genuine connections she shared with her friends and kouhai. Their unwavering loyalty and care were a great source of strength and support, fending off the fluttering whispers and gossip that followed her. She cherished the sense of belonging and comfort.
Reflecting on the warmth of these relationships, Ai couldn't help but marvel at the contrast to her childhood. Yet, amid her contemplation, 'Let's not think about such somber memories right now' she made a conscious choice to shelve the thought for the moment, focusing instead on the present and the joyous bonds that she finally had in her life.
AFTER SCHOOL
It was the end of another school day, as Ai made her way out of her classroom, the bustling sounds of students chatting, and laughter filled the air around her. Everyone was either going home or heading to their clubs. Ai was part of the no-club-go-home crowd since she had her part-time job. Normally, she would be eager to head home to rest before her shift, but today was different; it was her day off, and she had plans to meet up with Sanae. Ai was on her way to the student council room, where she planned to wait for Sanae, who had been caught up in a meeting with the teachers.
During her impromptu visit to the student council office, Emi had excitedly shared her recent trip to a new cafe that had opened. According to her, it was one of those petting cafes with all sorts of small animals you could play with while eating food. Intrigued yet a little apprehensive. However, her sweet tooth often led her into trouble, and she had a hard time denying requests from friends. When Sanae, known for her straightlaced and strict demeanor, insisted that Ai accompany her to the café, citing her hesitation to go alone, Ai couldn't refuse. With a mix of curiosity and reluctance, she agreed to her friend.
While Ai didn't harbor any strong feelings against animals, she wasn't particularly fond of them either. Her indifference stemmed partly from her struggle with OCD; she found the shedding fur and trailing over the place unsettling. She preferred to keep her distance whenever possible, opting to admire creatures from afar.
Ironically, despite her ambivalence, animals seemed to have an uncanny ability to seek her out. Stray cats and dogs often trailed behind her as she made her way home, their curious eyes locking onto hers, their inquisitive gazes and persistent presence prompting Ai to take pity on them and offer a small gesture of kindness. The simple act of feeding one had unwittingly made her an unintentional caretaker and owner of her own cat, a male Himalayan.
She had finally neared her destination when she overheard some students passing by yell out excitedly.
"Hey! Something interesting is happening in the school gym! There's a fight going on between Sakuragi Hanamichi versus the basketball captain." He exclaimed. Students hurriedly got out of their rooms rushing towards the school gym.
"Hanamichi Sakuragi…." Ai whispered to herself now intrigued by the commotion, she decided to abandon her original destination and follow the crowd to the gym. Quickly taking out her phone to send a message to Sanae.
To Sanae
I'm taking a detour and won't be waiting in the student council's conference room. Update me once your meeting is over. I'll come to you.
GYMNASIUM
When Ai arrived at the gym, she saw the huge crowd of students excitedly cheering out. She watched the ongoing game. Sakuragi was doing his best to get past Akagi but the basketball captain wasn't letting up, guarding his opponent. At the corner of her eye, Ai spots a familiar face and makes her way over.
"Ayako!" Ai called out to her former classmate she waved her hand.
"Ai-chan!" Ayako beamed, turning swiftly at the sound of her name and face breaking out into a wide smile, as she rushed up to Ai, embracing her warmly.
During their first year at Shohoku High School, the four friends—Ai, Sanae, Emi, and Ayako— developed a tight-knit bond, when they were all assigned to the same classroom. However, as they progressed and they transitioned into different classes for their second year, the girls found themselves navigating new environments. Despite the change, Ai and Sanae were fortunate to remain in the same homeroom, while the other two, Emi and Ayako, although separated in different classes, they've kept the spirit of their friendship alive through a lively group chat. The two energetic girls often took the lead, filling the chat with enthusiastic messages, on the latest gossip, venting their frustration, funny moments, and spontaneous ideas on their next outing. On the other hand, Ai and Sanae tended to be more reserved, choosing to respond intermittently while contributing to conversations with more thoughtful comments. They preferred phone calls over texting, finding calls quicker and less redundant. The group frequently coordinated plans, discussing everything from lunch dates at school and study sessions to weekend outings, such as movies, karaoke, or planned trips. The excitement of their hangouts always gave them moments to look forward to amidst their different schedules. Whether it was a casual lunch filled with chatter or a day out, the four friends remained close.
Perplexed by Ai's unexpected presence at the game, Ayako inquired, "Not that I'm not happy to see you here, but you don't usually take interest in these kinds of school drama."
"Well… that's because I heard–" Ai began, but their attention was diverted by the crowd's conversation.
"He can't do it!"
"Akagi's too strong for him!"
"I guess it's over."
"He's up against the best after all"
"No way he can beat him."
Ai's attention was drawn to the intense exchange between Sakuragi and Akagi. Even from the sidelines, the tension was palpable as the students voiced their opinions on Sakuragi's chances of winning, putting pressure on him. Not sure how to proceed after his last attempt was completely shut down. But one voice broke the tension and brought him out of his panic.
Ai's attention was captivated by the heated confrontation unfolding between Sakuragi and Akagi. The atmosphere buzzed with intensity; even from the sidelines, the weight of the moment felt nearly tangible. Students leaned in closer, their whispered comments and loud opinions swirling around, each utterance amplifying the pressure on Sakuragi. He stood frozen, his mind racing, unsure of how to move forward after his last attempt had crashed and burned spectacularly. Just when doubt threatened to consume him, a single voice pierced through the noise, cutting through his panic and anchoring him back to the moment. Ai's voice echoed through the air "You can win!"
"AI-CHAN! YOU CAME TO CHEER ME ON AS WELL! YOSH I'M GONNA DO MY BEST!" Sakuragi yells out excitedly as he waves the ball in his hands at Ai. Sakuragi's exuberant response reverberated through the gym, further fueling the spectators' curiosity about Ai's connection to the renowned delinquent.
"Woah that senpai is seriously sexy! Who is that?"
"It's Ouji-sama! What's she doing here?"
"Isn't that The Cold-Blooded Beauty?"
"Is she friends with Sakuragi?!"
"No way! He's a known delinquent and she's the top student in the school's ranking!"
As the crowd's sudden outburst caused a stir of speculation about Ai's presence and her potential ties to Sakuragi, she remained focused on the unfolding match. Her eyes were tenderly fixed on Sakuragi Hanamichi following his every move. A shift transpired as he took a deep breath, his gaze becoming intense and resolute as he faced off against Akagi, evincing an unwavering resolve that reverberated through the arena.
Meanwhile, on the other side of the gym, the same boy Ai had encountered earlier this morning, Rukawa found himself unable to look away from her. He couldn't help but be curious. The outburst had piqued his interest, leading him intrigued about her connection to the notorious redhead who had caused his recent head injury.
"Eh! Ai-chan you know Sakuragi Hanamichi?!" Ayako asked, taken aback by the revelation, prompting Ai to reflect momentarily.
"Hmmmm…" Ai ponders on how to answer her friend's interrogation, deciding to reply with. Ai declared,
"He's my hero." Ai declared, without providing further explanation, the depth of her statement leaving Ayako puzzled yet intrigued by her friend's enigmatic words, especially over a boy.
"Huh? What's that supposed to mean? Mou~ Don't be such a tease and give me a real answer." Ayako grabs Ai's shoulders, shaking her for answers.
"But… c'est la vérité [5], Ayako." Ai insists. Ayako, knowing Ai knew she wasn't gonna get anything from her friend, lets out a disappointed sigh before both girls focus their attention back on the game.
"Are you sure he's your hero and not the other way around?" she questioned one last time.
With unwavering conviction and a small endearing smile on her face, Ai reiterated, "Nope. He's definitely mine."
As the game reached its climax, Sakuragi emerged victorious, eliciting cheers to break out from the crowd. Amidst the exuberance, Ai's phone chimed, signaling for her attention.
From Sanae
I'm done. I'll wait for you at the front gates.
Sakuragi turned towards where Ai was standing but was nowhere to be seen. She had already left the gym to meet up with Sanae, content with the turn of events.
Sanae's POV
Sanae stood by the school gates, the dull thud of her shoes echoing against the pavement as she mentally retraced the events that had unfolded after the student council meeting. Her encounter with her teacher, Mr Kujou, replayed in her mind, bringing with it a tinge of unease that sat heavy in her stomach.
FLASHBACK
"Yamamoto, could I have a moment of your time before you head out?" her teacher requested, looking up from the stack of papers on his desk.
"Of course, Sensei. What do you need?" Sanae replied, hoping she wouldn't get held back for too long.
"Well, one of your classmates mentioned that you and Daidouji are planning to meet up later. I was hoping you could deliver this to her for me." The teacher gently handed Sanae a neatly sealed catalog envelope, the familiar logo prominently displayed on the top right corner. Sanae's heart sank slightly as she realized the envelope's contents; she could already envision Ai's reaction when she saw it. Nevertheless, she took the envelope with a nod.
"Oh, sure sensei. I'll make sure she gets it, no problem." Sanae said, trying to sound normal.
"Thank you, Sanae. Just a little reminder—don't stay out too late, both of you. And please tell Daidouji to be extra cautious on the road. Seriously, I can't fathom what her parents were thinking, allowing her to ride that hunk of metal death trap. I swear!" the teacher kept yelling, Sanae listened attentively, hearing the mixture of concern and disapproval of her teacher as he walked away.
PRESENT
Sanae couldn't shake the weight of the envelope that rested in her bag. She knew all too well what the contents within and the inevitable negative reaction it would elicit from Ai. Thoughts spiraled in her mind, each one darker than the last, and she struggled to push them aside.
As she stood lost in thought, the deep rumble of a familiar engine roared to life, drawing her attention to the sleek matte black motorcycle, a Yamaha XSR-125, gliding to a stop in front of her. Ai, with her effortlessly cool demeanor, sat astride the powerful machine, captivating everyone around her presence, and drawing the attention of passersby.
"Sanae! Get on!" Ai called out, her clear voice cutting through the haze of Sanae's contemplation. Shaking her head to dispel the worries that plagued her, Sanae approached the motorcycle, a small smile playing at the corners of her lips as she near her best friend, Ai handing over the extra helmet to her as she settled behind Ai and wrapped her arms around Ai's waist.
Daidouji Ai's Residence
Fatigue weighed heavily on Ai as she wearily navigated the seemingly endless day that had stretched far beyond its usual boundaries. Her rooftop sanctuary, once a refuge from the chaos of school was no longer quiet, tainted with the memory of a brash encounter with an impertinent freshman. Along with the additional burden of working overtime, tonight had further sapped her energy, and the clock striking past 10:30 PM only served to compound her weariness. The weight of the day would have been bearable if not for the lingering unease sparked by the envelope packet Sanae had surreptitiously handed over to her before their earlier parting.
As Ai finally reached the grandeur of their residence, a magnificent two-story western-style mansion greeted her weary eyes. The architecture resembled something out of a fairy tale, with the delicate ivy tendrils gracefully climbing the sturdy brick walls, lending an air of enchantment to the abode.
She guided her motorcycle to a graceful halt in front of the imposing gates and engaged the intercom, her voice betraying the fatigue that clung to her. "Hey it's me, could you open the gates for me? I forgot my key fob," she requested, waiting momentarily as the gates slid open. Maneuvering her motorcycle into the spacious area and toward the garage, she made her way into the house through the familiar entrance, ascending the stairs with a heavy heart.
"I'm home." She announced, as her weary voice echoed through the expansive halls. "So what did our esteemed housekeeper Shiori-baasan prepare for tonight's dinner?"
"Welcome home," a familiar voice greeted her as a boy emerged from the depths of the house, a big smile gracing his features. As he entered the kitchen and with practiced ease, retrieved Ai's portion of dinner from the fridge and began to reheat it with care. "Baa-San cooked us some—salmon and tempura for dinner, along with some crème brûlée for dessert. Yours is inside the fridge," he announced, deftly setting the table for Ai's meal. "Hey! Your dinner's ready. I set out your food on the table." he added before stepping out into the hallway watching Ai to shed the weight of the day.
As Ai shed her shoes and jacket, the weariness etched on her features softened at the sight of the familiar figure before her. She murmured gratefully "Merci, Hana-chan."
Notes
1. Chaton - Kitten
2. Ce n'est pas vrai du tout - That is not true at all
3. Pas de souci - No worries
4. Mais merci - But thank you
5. c'est la vérité - it's the truth