It was late when everyone finally made it home from the long trip back from Tokyo. Nakano had gotten home at last, and then had been attacked by her mom, wanting to know everything about her trip. She managed to satisfy her mom's curiosity after about a hour, and was finally released to collapse into her bed. Her night routine was finished, and she was physically tired, but mentally she was still wide awake. The long naps on the bus ride had apparently thrown everyone off, because the Crow VB group chat was pinging. She opened her phone and jumped in.
Freckles
I can't believe everyone is still awake at this point!
Man Bun
Well, we did all sleep pretty soundly on the bus.
Guardian Deity
Yes. Yes you did. 😏
Queen
OMG Suga and Asahi are so precious!
Buzz Cut
They breathe in sync! What's up with that?
Suga
Daichi, are you still alive?
Freckles
It does look like he's not breathing there...
Villager B
Is Daichi okay? He's hasn't answered...
Glasses
I'm sure the Captain is fine, maybe he's actually sleeping now like the rest of you should be.
Goddess
Tsukishima has a point, you guys should be resting up.
Suga
For what? We don't have practice for two days.
Freckles
After all those days in a row, it sounds so weird to say that.
Goddess
I'm grateful I don't have to cook tomorrow.
Man Bun
Actually, I'm going to miss your cooking. You all made some amazing food!
8 Ball
Yeah, we did eat well this past week.
King
Naka-chan, can you make strawberry shortcake for the next practice?
Goddess
Kageyama, she just made it at the camp.
Glasses
For once I agree with the King.
Lucky 7
I agree with that idea too!
Villager B
It was a really good cake, Nakano.
Glasses
See, you have to make it Naka-chan.
King
Please?
Queen
OMG you guys are gonna be the death of me.
King
Is that a yes?
Guardian Deity
I think it is.
Man Bun
Guys, don't pressure her.
Buzz Cut
Pretty please?
Captain
Pretty please with a cherry on top? Especially since I'm hurt that I'm not precious.
Queen
O CAPTAIN MY CAPTAIN! You are our fearless leader and we adore you. LOL Guess I'm doing some baking tomorrow.
Six Shooter
AWESOME! Thank you, Naka-chan! And thank you Captain!
Suga
I think Daichi might need another encouragement kiss too Naka-chan. 😏😘
Glasses
I'm sorry, that won't be possible. All of her encouragement kisses are reserved for the foreseeable future.
Queen
Awww Tsukki, do you need a lot of encouragement right now? 😏
8 Ball
Okay, this sounds like something you should discuss on a private chat, please.
Lucky 7
Don't they live close to each other?
Villager B
Don't tease them guys!
Ginger
Actually they do! And Nakano has a volleyball court in her backyard and everything! Her house is awesome. We should all play volleyball at her house!
Lucky 7
Sounds like fun.
Guardian Deity
WOAH you have your own volleyball court Naka-chan?
8 Ball
That is way cool. No wonder she's so good.
Ginger
Can we Naka-chan? Can we play at your house tomorrow? Coach won't let us practice at the gym but I don't want to wait two whole days!
King
I'd be up for that.
Queen
I agree it would be fun guys but I'd have to ask my mom first. And at the moment I think she's asleep.
Captain
Come on guys, that's really a lot to ask on such short notice.
Glasses
Can't you guys live for one day without volleyball? OMG we just got back from a solid week of constant practicing.
Lucky 7
But this would be volleyball in the backyard! It would be fun!
King
Your mom wouldn't mind, Naka-chan. You know how she is.
Man Bun
Seriously guys, I think we're asking way too much of Nakano.
Glasses
Asahi-senpai is right.
Six Shooter
It would be nice to hang out with just our own guys for a change.
Villager B
Yeah! Like team bonding!
Six Shooter
Exactly!
Freckles
But maybe tomorrow isn't the best day.
Man Bun
We could plan it for some time in the future.
Buzz Cut
But we're going to be practicing like crazy soon for Spring Prelims!
Lucky 7
Guys come on. Don't make Nakano feel bad. We don't have to get together tomorrow.
King
Sorry Naka-chan. It just does sound like so much fun.
Queen
Okay, here's the deal. Be here at 3pm. Bring something to drink to share. My mom says she will supply the pizza, and I'll be baking the strawberry shortcake. Volleyball is optional but certainly available. We'll be hanging out in the backyard the whole time so dress for the weather. See you guys tomorrow! I'm going to sleep, because I have to get up tomorrow and bake!
Glasses
WHAT!?
Buzz Cut
BACKYARD PARTY AT NAKANO'S!!!
Captain
Nakano are you sure about this?
8 Ball
Seriously?
Six Shooter
I'll be there!
Man Bun
Nakano I feel like we made you do this.
Goddess
Indeed. Are you sure your mom is alright with this?
Queen
I'm sure. My mom is fine with it, and I'm happy to do this for my team. You guys are the best. Please come and no you are so not imposing. Goodnight you guys.
Captain
Alright! See everyone tomorrow at Nakano's! Hope you all can make it!
The Crow VB chat pinged a little longer with plans and goodnights. Nakano turned her attention to something else, however.
Queen Setter 🏐
Kei what's wrong?
Gorgeous 💖
We just got back from a huge camp. We spent a whole week with them. Why do we need to spend another day with them?
Queen Setter 🏐
I know. But they seemed so into the idea. And I owe the team so much...this is something so simple that I can do for them. Mom's been bugging me about meeting the rest of the team anyway. So I figured why not? We don't have to play, we can just relax and hang around with everyone.
Gorgeous 💖
You're such an idiot. A volleyball idiot. There's no way you'll stay off your own court.
Queen Setter 🏐
Fair point.
Nakano sighed, feeling like she'd been a little blind to Kei's needs. He hadn't said anything, but maybe he was planning to ask me to get together tomorrow, just the two of us. She pouted to herself. Well, we're also not practicing on Monday. Maybe it's time for me to put my little plan into action. She smiled to herself. It then dawned on her that Kei hadn't said anything for a bit.
Queen Setter 🏐
Hey...please don't be mad. I promise I'll make it up to you.
Gorgeous 💖
Look up, Roses.
Her eyes flew to her window to see her boyfriend sitting precariously on the outer ledge. She hurried to open it, giving him a shocked look. "What on Earth are you doing here?" She helped him inside.
He wrapped his long arms around the girl, kissing the top of her head. "Oh Roses, what am I going to do with you? Such a volleyball idiot."
"Yeah, but I'm your volleyball idiot," she said, grinning. "And I will make it up to you."
"I was hoping to spend these two days together. We've only got a month left of summer vacation, and half of it will be eaten up with the Spring Prelims. Now we have to spend tomorrow with the team too."
"But you can come over early and help me make the strawberry shortcake," she said, giving him a sweet smile.
He pouted. "Not the same," he said, not looking at her.
She took his face in her hands, making him look at her. "Then please go out with me on Monday. Let me take you on a date this time."
He cocked his head. "Hmmmm...I'll have to check my calendar..."
"Oh?" she said, turning away from him and grabbing her phone, "Well, if you're not free, I'll just text Kuroo then. I'm sure he'd take the bullet train and join me for the day."
He took the phone from her hands and dropped it on her bed. "Don't push your luck, Roses," he said taking her in his arms again, "Mine." She giggled, making him smile. "I'd love to go on our third date on Monday." He kissed her sweetly, and they lingered in it, sinking down on to her bed. After several minutes of gentle kissing, he cuddled her close to his chest. "I wish I could stay here with you."
She sighed. "Me too. I sleep better when you're with me. But I don't think we can pull that one off. Heck, I can't believe you're here again like this! What are you gonna do if you get caught trying to get back in?"
Tsukishima rubbed the back of his neck, looking embarrassed. "Well...I kinda already got caught on the way out."
"What?" Nakano's eyes went wide.
"My brother's home for a visit. He caught me slipping out of my bedroom."
"So what did you tell him?"
"He sorta got the truth out of me. He knows I've got a girlfriend, and that she lives close by. And...he agreed to cover for me tonight...if I bring her home for a visit the next time he comes home."
Nakano paled. "So this means..."
"Yep. It's your turn to meet my mom. Akiteru says he's going to be back next weekend. So it's my job now to tell my mom about us and arrange for us to all have dinner together."
"Oh boy," Nakano looked sick.
"Hey, it's not that bad. We've already done the hard one, this should be easy." Why does she look so upset? he wondered. Surely she can't think my mom would disapprove of her.
Nakano looked at him, sweat beginning to form on her brow. "Oh yeah, because nothing goes better with a lovely dinner than meeting your son's crippled girlfriend." Nakano's voice was small and shaky.
"Roses, stop that." He took her by the shoulders and gently shook her. "You are not crippled. For crying out loud, you recently kicked the crap out of three thugs in a Tokyo alley. You're more able-bodied than most of the girls I know. So stop worrying." He held her close again, petting her hair. "Mom and Akiteru are gonna love you." He could feel her taking deep breaths, trying to calm herself.
She just stayed in his arms a while, trying to relax. When she finally spoke, she changed the subject. "So your brother was home when you got in, hmm? Did you talk with him?"
Wow, she is really scared about meeting my family, he thought. She changed the subject, and to that one, knowing how I often react to that. Well, we've got a week to work on it. "Mhmmm," he kissed the top of her head again. "You were right. It was...an interesting conversation."
She smiled up at him. "Maybe you'll tell me about it sometime?"
He couldn't help but smile back. "Maybe. But for tonight, I should probably get back home. It's really late, and apparently, I have to come over here tomorrow to help you make strawberry shortcake."
They said their goodnights, and after another kiss, Kei slipped back out the window. Nakano watched him go until she could no longer see him. As he jogged home, he pulled the condom Akiteru had insisted on giving him out of his pocket and looked at it. Good thing I didn't tell her about this, he thought, chuckling to himself. I think her brain might have exploded, knowing that my brother assumes such things are already happening. Why does everyone think that's all we're interested in? She means so much more to me than that. When Akiteru had demanded he tell their mother about his girlfriend, he'd been irritated, not wanting to deal with the teasing that was likely to come. Now, he felt almost excited to tell her. I want to show them how much she means to me, he thought, how amazing she is. How lucky I am to have her.
🏐🏐🏐
Nakano stretched and yawned as she finally began to drag herself out of bed for the day. Ten in the morning, she thought, I bet my mother has been up for hours cleaning, and I'm about to get lectured at for not getting up earlier to help. She smirked, making her way into her bathroom to grab a quick shower. Her phone went off.
Gorgeous 💖
So...are we making strawberry shortcake or what?
Queen Setter 🏐
You bet. But I just woke up, so give a me a little time.
Gorgeous 💖
So lazy. Will you need ingredients?
Queen Setter 🏐
Just strawberries and heavy cream. I'm sure we have everything else I need here. Wait, maybe eggs too.
Gorgeous 💖
Let me guess - you haven't even showered yet.
Queen Setter 🏐
I am literally about to step into it now.
Gorgeous 💖
Does that mean I'm texting my girlfriend while she's naked? 😲😏
Queen Setter 🏐
Maybe. Pull yourself together gorgeous. 💋
Gorgeous 💖
I'm halfway to the market. I'll pick up what we need and be there soon. Try to be dressed before I get there or we might never get around to making the shortcake. 😏
Queen Setter 🏐
KEI! What has gotten into you today?
Gorgeous 💖
LOL See you soon Roses.
Queen Setter 🏐
KK. Get 4 lbs of strawberries, a quart of heavy cream, and a dozen eggs. That should be plenty for our purposes. Thank you! 💕😘😍
Gorgeous 💖
OMG quit it with the emojis.
Nakano laughed and started getting ready. She smiled to herself. This is going to be a lot of fun, she thought.
Thirty minutes later, Nakano emerged from her bedroom. As predicted, her mother did give her some grief for sleeping in and not helping prepare the house, but not as bad as she thought she'd get it. Her mother was more bothered by the fact that Nakano chose to dress in a comfortable pair of blue shorts and a cute panda tee shirt.
"You've got company coming over, Naka-chan! You should wear something pretty," her mom complained.
"Mom, it's my team. They are gonna want to play volleyball. What's the point in getting all dolled up to have to change clothes?"
"But isn't Kei-chan coming over too?"
"Actually, he'll be here soon - he's bringing the ingredients we need for the strawberry shortcake."
"But you don't even have your face done yet!"
"Mom, I don't 'do my face'. Makeup isn't a good idea when you plan on getting all sweaty playing volleyball."
"But I'm sure Kei-chan would love it if you..." The doorbell sounded.
"Oh well, too late, he's here!" Nakano sprang to let Kei in, and her mother just rolled her eyes.
"Pardon the intrusion," Kei murmured as Nakano grabbed the bags from him and kissed him on the forehead.
"Oh my word you are so not intruding," Nakano whispered to him, "Please save me from my mother, who wants me to put on makeup and a fancy outfit to play volleyball."
Kei chuckled. "Has she met you?" he whispered back, changing into house slippers.
"Hello Kei-chan!" Emiko called as the two came in to the kitchen.
"Good morning, Emiko-san," Kei greeted her with a small bow.
Emiko chuckled. "Thank you for picking up the groceries. Please let me know how much it was so I can repay you."
"There's no need, Emiko-san. Thank you for allowing the team to gather here today," Kei replied, starting to unpack the bags.
"Well, alright then. Have fun baking you two," Emiko said as she left them.
Nakano turned to Kei, about to say something in regards to her mother's need to frilly her up, but stopped short when she saw Kei's face. The look he wore was a curious combination of shy and mischievous. His cheeks were gently pink, and his hands were behind his back. He'd come to a decision last night, as he lay in bed, thinking about Nakano's reaction to the idea of meeting his family. He found it hard to believe, but clearly Nakano did not think she was going to be considered worthy of being his girlfriend by his mother. After considering a few ideas, he decided that maybe the best way to help her see how wrong she was would be to show her, rather than to try to tell her, as she didn't seem to listen to him when it came to such things. Kei really wanted her to know that he thought she was amazing. Plus, he knew that he'd have to bear up under whatever teasing Akiteru and his mother might put them through. So he'd decided he would try to be a little more romantic for his girlfriend today, even with the team around. He knew that if he could survive whatever the team threw at him, he could survive anything.
And so, he stood in front of Nakano, slightly blushing, as she tried to figure out the look on his face.
"Kei? Is something the matter?"
A smile touched his lips as he brought his hands out from behind him and gave Nakano a single rose, white with pink tips, nestled in greenery and baby's breath. "I saw this, and it reminded me of you, Roses." She took the flower from him, a gentle smile on her face. She inhaled the soft fragrance. He took her chin in his hand, and leaned forward to her. "But you are so much more beautiful." He delicately kissed her lips.
"What has gotten into you today?" she whispered, looking a little awestruck.
"What?" He smirked at her. "I can't do something romantic for my girlfriend?"
"Oh absolutely! Don't get me wrong, romantic gestures are totally approved. At all times," she said quickly, "I just..." She looked at him and blushed. "Do you really think I'm beautiful?" she asked, her voice soft.
"What a silly question, Roses," he whispered to her, "I think you're the most beautiful girl I've ever seen." He kissed her again, lingering longer this time. Have I really not told her how beautiful she is? Kei thought back, trying to remember if he'd ever said it to her, or if he'd only thought it. Clearly, even if I have, I haven't said it enough.
"Should I just run to a bakery? Otherwise I don't think the team will be getting any strawberry shortcake today," Emiko leaned on the doorframe of the kitchen, a smile on her face.
Nakano and Kei both jumped back, each turning a deep shade of red. Emiko laughed. "Let me get you a bud vase for that lovely rose, Naka-chan," her mother said, walking off.
Nakano and Kei looked at each for a beat, then laughed. "Oops," Kei said, smirking at the strawberry blonde.
"That's what you get for doing your romantic gestures in the kitchen," Nakano said, "Come on, let's get started on these cakes."
Several hours later, two strawberry shortcakes were chilling in the refrigerator. The creation of said cakes, however, had involved rather a lot of laughing, teasing, and at least one flour war. The pair had cleaned up the kitchen, but now looked at each other chuckling. Both of them had flour all over their faces, arms, and their clothing.
"I guess we'd better get cleaned up, huh?" Kei said as he looked down at his flour-covered tee shirt, "Looks like I'm going to need to run back home."
"Nah, you're about my dad's size, I'm sure my mom won't mind if you borrow one of his tee shirts. How bad off are your shorts?" Nakano looked down at his lower half.
He dusted his shorts off. "Not bad, I think I can get away with wearing them. Are you sure your mom won't mind me wearing one of her husband's shirts?" Kei looked a little doubtful.
"Let's ask," Nakano wandered into the living room to find her mom watching television. "Hey, mom?"
Emiko looked up at the two teens and laughed. "Oh wow. Looks like you two had fun. Kei-chan, do you need a tee shirt to change into? You look to be about Tanjiro's size."
"See? I told you she wouldn't mind," Nakano said with a smile, "I'm gonna go wash up. Kei, just meet me in my room once you're cleaned up, okay? Thanks, Mom."
Emiko asked Kei to follow her upstairs. He waited in the hallway as she entered the master bedroom, returning shortly with a tee shirt. She handed it to the boy and showed him to the hall bathroom so he could change.
"Kei-chan?" Emiko called as he headed into the bathroom. He turned back to face his girlfriend's mother. "Naka-chan hasn't been over to your house yet, has she?"
"No ma'am," Kei answered, "but I am planning to ask her to come over soon. My mother and brother would very much like to meet her." Glad I told my mom this morning, he thought, I really don't want to have to lie to Nakano's mom...not even a little white lie. It's just a bad habit I don't want to get into.
Emiko's face burst into a smile. "Oh good. I'm glad to hear that." She looked rather relieved.
Kei gave the woman a small smile. "Emiko-san, I meant what I said that night. Nakano means a great deal to me. I...I may not always be the best at saying it or showing it, but it's true. And...well, I'm working on that. I want her to know how special she is."
She patted the boy on the shoulder. "I'm sorry, Kei-chan. You're such a sweet boy, and I shouldn't worry so much." Tsukishima started at her description of him. "But I do, I worry so much about Naka-chan. She's been through so much, and she's so...fragile..." The woman's face contorted with worry, and her eyes became almost haunted. "It's so hard sometimes, to know how to care for a child who's been so hurt."
Tsukishima's face held both sympathy and shock. "Emiko-san, I don't know everything, but I do know she's been through some very difficult things. I know she'll share her stories with me as she's ready to, so please, don't feel like you have to tell me anything at all. But, I have to differ with you on one point." Emiko looked into the boy's eyes, curious. "She's not fragile. In fact, she might very well be the strongest person I've ever met."
It was Emiko's turn to register shock on her face. She gave Tsukishima a small smile, and handed him a washcloth she pulled from the hall closet. "When you're done, just leave your shirt and washcloth in here. Thank you, Kei-chan. Now you'd better hurry, before Naka-chan comes looking for you."
Before long, it was almost three o'clock. Nakano set up her phone and her speakers in the window of her bedroom to play music out over the backyard. The volleyball court was cleaned up and ready. A table was set up in the yard as well, for food and drinks. Emiko brought out a large ice chest and plenty of cups, as well as strawberry sodas and some onigiri she'd made that morning. After placing a sign on the front door directing the team to come right to the backyard, Nakano and Kei sat on a bench, strawberry sodas in hand. Nakano was leaning back on her boyfriend's chest, his arm around her, holding her close.
"Bets on who's gonna arrive first?" She asked.
"I won," he smirked, "I've been here since about 11 this morning." She smacked his leg lightly and laughed.
"Hey guys!" Tadashi called as he entered the backyard.
Nakano started to sit up, but Tsukishima held in her place with his arm. She gave him a puzzled look, surprised that he wanted to stay in such a cuddly position with someone else around. "Mine," he whispered, earning his favorite giggle again.
"Hi Yams! Welcome!" Nakano called out, "Please, go ahead and help yourself to anything on the table. Drinks can go there too."
"Wow, your backyard is as amazing as Hinata said it was," Yamaguchi said as he grabbed an onigiri and plunked himself down on the grass by the bench his two friends were sitting on. "You two look very comfortable," he said, giving them a sly smile.
Nakano tried again to sit up, but Tsukishima stopped her once more. His face was only the lightest of pinks as he said, "Thank you, we are," and kissed Nakano's cheek. She blushed, and looked at Yams as if to say 'I don't know what's going on, but I like it!' Yamaguchi chuckled.
Yachi, Kageyama and Hinata were the next to arrive. Nakano greeted them warmly, but was still held in place by Tsukishima. The trio went over to set down their contributions to the celebration and grab themselves some drinks.
"I think that's the first time I've ever seen the two of them cuddle like that when they weren't asleep on a bus," Yachi said. "I wonder what's going on?"
"What do you mean, Yachi? They're boyfriend and girlfriend. Isn't that what they're supposed to do?" Hinata said, cocking his head to the side.
"Well, I guess, but I didn't think Tsukishima would be so...open about it," the girl whispered as they walked over to the other three, "They never do things like that at practice."
"Daichi would throw a fit if they did," Kageyama said, looking at Nakano as she smiled, chatting with Yamaguchi, "but this isn't a practice. So I guess they aren't as worried about it." As long as she's smiling, he thought, I don't care, four eyes. Just don't ever let that smile falter.
"This is perfect! I'm glad you guys all got here first," Nakano said as the the three newcomers joined their little group on the grass. "I've been thinking...what if we had a separate get together, just for us first years?"
"To do what?" asked Tsukki.
"I was thinking we could go to that amusement park in Sendai," Nakano said.
"Yagiyama Benyland?" Yachi piped up, "I used to love going there when I was a kid! Even though I was never brave enough to ride the roller coasters," she said, blushing a little.
"I'll ride them with you, Yachi!" Yamaguchi chimed in, "That sounds like fun!" The girl paled.
"Let's go tomorrow!" Shoyo cried, throwing his hands in the air. "Roller coasters, WOOOHOO!!!"
"Sorry, Shrimp, but we're busy tomorrow," Tsukki said, hugging Nakano again.
"Aw, man! But I wanna go!" Shoyo said, crestfallen.
"You guys going on a date tomorrow?" Kageyama asked with a smirk.
"Isn't that what you're supposed to do when you're dating, Your Majesty?" Tsukishima clapped back. Nakano gently elbowed him.
"We're not practicing next Monday either...what if we go then?" Nakano suggested. The group nodded in agreement. "Alright then! The first year crew is going to the amusement park!" Nakano cried. Shoyo, Tadashi, and Yachi all cheered. Kageyama and Tsukishima just rolled their eyes.
Soon the rest of the team began to arrive, and naturally, a volleyball game was started. Kiyoko kept score as Asahi, Kinoshita and Nishinoya went up against Hinata, Kageyama and Ennoshita. The others chatted, watching the three-on-three and enjoying the music and snacks. Daichi and Suga were the last to arrive, bringing some homemade mugicha and a beautiful potted orchid for Nakano's mom. The girl led the boys into the house to meet her mother.
They found her in the living room, reading. "Mom, this is my captain, Sawamura Daichi, and my vice-captain, Sugawara Koshi. Boys, my mother, Ogawa Emiko."
Both boys bowed. "Hajimemashite, Ogawa-san," they both intoned together. Daichi held out the orchid to her. "Tsumaranai mono desu ga," he said, "Thank you for allowing us to gather at your home."
"Oh my goodness," Emiko said with a gasp. "Daichi-chan, Koshi-chan, this is lovely. Thank you very much." Both boys colored at being addressed as youngsters by Nakano's mother. "Naka-chan, will you please put this on the dining room table? And if everyone is here now, please go ahead and order the pizza, alright?" She took the orchid from her mother and headed out, throwing Daichi and Suga an 'I'm sorry about her' look as she passed by.
"May I talk with you boys a moment?" she asked them.
"Of course, Ogawa-san," Daichi said.
"Please, sit," Emiko gestured to them, and both boys sat on the couch. "I want to thank you very much for giving Naka-chan a place with your team. Does she perform her duties well?"
Daichi smiled, "Absolutely, Ogawa-san. Nakano has been a wonderful addition to our team, and we're very grateful she's chosen to stay with us."
Emiko cast her eyes down and gave the boys a sad smile. "Please, tell me the truth. Has she been a burden to you? I know it must be difficult having to deal with someone who is unable to keep up with the rigors of a sport like volleyball..."
Suga and Daichi exchanged a confused look. "Forgive me, Ogawa-san," Suga interrupted, "but Nakano is more than capable of keeping up with us. She works very hard as our manager, and as a volleyball player herself..."
"Former volleyball player," Emiko said sadly.
"No, ma'am," Suga said firmly, "she's an excellent volleyball player. She's helped a good many of us on the team learn new or hone existing skills. She's a hard worker and very generous with her time and talents. She's also so very supportive of all of us..."
Daichi put a hand on Suga's shoulder. "What my vice-captain is trying to say, Ogawa-san, is that in no way is Nakano a burden to our team. In fact, my biggest worry is that next year, if she's well enough, we might lose her to the girls' team when she's actually able to play full time again."
Emiko's mouth flew open, she covered it with her hand. "Is...is she playing that well?"
Suga smiled. "Ogawa-san, haven't you seen her play?" Emiko shook her head. "Well, maybe you should. I'm sure she'll play at some point today. Come and watch her. I think you'll be amazed."
Daichi nodded. "You really should. Forgive me this question, but are you not involved with Nakano's therapy?"
Emiko smiled at the boys, but they could immediately see the smile was not genuine. Her eyes seemed to be full of regret. "I'm sorry to have interrupted your time together as a team. Please, go ahead and enjoy yourselves."
Daichi and Suga stood. "Please come watch her play, Ogawa-san. I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you see. I'm sorry if I said anything to upset you." Daichi said as he and Suga made their way back outdoors.
The party in the yard continued on in fine fashion. No one was really surprised when Hinata's team won the three-on-three, and before long pizzas arrived to capture everyone's attention. Tsukishima settled Nakano down on the grass and brought the two of them some pizza and mugicha, curling up alongside her. He took the opportunity to occasionally feed her bites of pizza, and the two shared a single cup of the homemade drink. When they were finished eating, Tsukishima settled himself down with his head in Nakano's lap. She played with his hair, feeling the boy relax under the touch of her hand.
"I gotta say, Tsukishima looks comfortable," Narita said with a grin.
Yamaguchi smiled. "He really does." He was sitting next to Yachi, and he glanced over at her, a small blush forming on his cheeks as he thought about the pretty girl playing around with his hair like that.
Asahi sighed. "Must be nice," he said softly under his breath.
Yachi leaned over to Yamaguchi. "I just can't believe that Tsukishima is being so...affectionate," she mumbled to the boy. "I'm really surprised."
"Naka-chan doesn't seem to be," Yamaguchi whispered back. I hope this is something we get to see more often, he thought. It's nice to see Tsukki coming out from behind those barriers he's always had up.
"Are you guys gonna get all kissy with each other again?" Shoyo teased.
"Like this?" Nakano smirked, leaning down and giving Tsukki a peck on the lips. Several of the boys oooh'ed at them, laughing.
Daichi laughed. "I think you've made a few of our teammates jealous, Tsukishima."
"Sorry, not sorry Captain," Tsukishima said, "they'll have to find their own girlfriends."
"KIYOKO! Please cuddle me!!" Nishinoya cried as he flung himself on the grass in front of the girl in question, trying to put his head in her lap. The dark-haired beauty dodged him and smacked him in the face with a plate, making the team laugh again.
Soon, Emiko called for Nakano and Tsukishima to come help bring out the strawberry shortcake. The teens dove into the cake with abandon, complementing Nakano once again on her baking skills.
"Hey, Tsukki helped this time around, so he deserves at least half the credit!" Nakano said, smiling.
"It's really good, Tsukishima," Kiyoko praised the boy.
"No fair! He's dating our angel, and our goddess compliments him! Next thing you know, he'll have Yachi serving him like a maid!" Tanaka groaned.
"W-W-W-WHAT?!" Yachi yelled. The girl looked like she was about to faint. Yamaguchi was quick to bring her some water.
Tsukishima scoffed. "Tanaka-senpai, please don't say things like that."
Tanaka jumped on to the far side of the volleyball court. "Then I challenge you to a match, Tsukishima! Any who wish to help me take on the megane giant, stand with me!" He yanked off his tee shirt, twirled it around and flung it away, flexing his muscles.
"No thanks, senpai. I'm good." Tsukishima rolled his eyes.
"I'll stand with you, Tanaka!" Noya ran to Tanaka's side of the court, also flinging his shirt aside.
"I told you, I'm not interested in a volleyball battle, senpais." Tsukki demurred again.
"Oho, too chicken to take on your upperclassmen, eh Tsukishima? Can't say I blame you, we are pretty devastating." Tanaka and Noya continued posing. "Will no one accept my challenge?"
Daichi moved to the other side of the court, tossing his shirt aside, and striking a rather imposing figure. "I'll take you guys on. Who's with me?"
Yachi turned to Hinata. "Why are they all taking their shirts off?"
Shoyo jumped up, yanking his tee shirt off. "I dunno, but I'm with you Captain!" He bounced over to stand with Daichi.
Kageyama headed over to Tanaka's side of the court. "Let's see how much you can do without me, dumbass," the setter said with a smirk. Tanaka cleared his throat, pointing at the boy's shirt. "What?" Tanaka gave him a wide-eyed stare. "Oh fine," Kageyama scoffed, throwing his shirt to the side. "This is stupid," he said.
"Don't worry, Shoyo, I'll be your setter," Nakano said, jogging over to Daichi's side and grabbing the bottom of her tee shirt.
"WOAH!" Daichi yelled, reaching for her hands. Tsukishima ran up, grabbing the girl from behind in a tight hug, holding her arms in place.
"What? I thought this was the price of admission to this game," she said. "I'm wearing a sports bra, ya know."
"And no one else here needs to know what color it is," Tsukishima whispered to her, "except maybe me."
"Play in this game and maybe I'll show you later on," she whispered back, smirking at the boy.
"I'll play," Tsukishima said out loud, smirking back and making Nakano blush as he called her bluff, "but only if we keep our shirts on."
"I'm in too!" called Yamaguchi, joining Daichi's side.
"Hey, no fair!" Noya called, yanking his tee shirt back on, "We need two more over here then!"
"Count us in," said Asahi, and he and Kinoshita stepped around to Tanaka's side of the court.
A spirited five-on-five got underway with the remaining five teens watching, cheering and generally calling out advice, both helpful and otherwise. Narita agreed to keep score, and both teams soon found a rhythm that worked well for them, keeping the score close.
It was Nakano's turn to serve. She tossed the ball high, delivering a powerful jump serve, which Noya failed to receive. A cheer went up from Nakano's side as well as the spectators at the service ace. Suga, however, caught the sound of a breathless "Naka-chan!" from behind him and reached out to stop Emiko from running to her daughter.
"Wait, Ogawa-san," the silver-haired boy said, "Look, she's fine. Her serves are very powerful. That's her third service ace so far in this game. Just watch her."
Emiko stood, almost frozen, watching her daughter play with her team. She could hardly believe her eyes. She stayed, mesmerized, as her daughter moved about, playing volleyball. And playing it well. Her hand covered her mouth again as Nakano followed Yamaguchi and Tsukishima's lead, jumping to block a spike from Tanaka.
"One touch!" cried Tsukki as the ball flew off his hand.
Daichi ran back and dove for it, keeping the ball in play. "Cover me!" he bellowed as the ball flew a bit more to the side than he would have liked.
Nakano ran into position, leaping to meet the ball in the air. Her target was already in motion, having caught her eye as she came down from the block. Hinata flew high above the net as Nakano set the ball across the court to his position. He slammed the ball down between the outstretched hands of Kinoshita and Tanaka.
"YEAH!!" she bellowed, giving Tsukki a high ten, "Nice one-touch!"
"Nice set," her boyfriend replied.
Shoyo was staring at his hand. "That was awesome, Naka-chan!"
Play resumed. Suga had cheered loudly for the incredible kill, but soon turned to look at Emiko again. The woman had tears running down her face. "Thank you, Koshi-chan," she said softly, "You were right. I am amazed. And not just at Naka-chan. Thank you all, so much. Please, don't tell Naka-chan I was out here, okay?" She turned and went back inside the house.
Eventually, Daichi's team won, by a slim 2-point margin. A fair amount of joking and smack talk went down after the game, with Daichi vowing that amnesty would be given to all who opposed him, except for Tanaka who had issued the original challenge. The wing spiker looked a little nervous until the captain assured him he was only kidding.
As the Sun began to set, the team was heading out, thanking Nakano for a wonderful afternoon. "This really was a lot of fun, Naka-chan, thank you," Daichi said, "I think we needed a little team bonding time." He smiled at the girl. "How would you feel about being in charge of making sure we do things like this once in a while? It's easy to get so caught up in preparations for matches that we forget that sometimes we just need to enjoy being together as friends."
"I'd be happy to, Cap," the girl said. "Just leave it all to me. And thanks for coming today."
"This was the best, Naka-chan! Who knew volleyball in the backyard could be so much fun? I had the time of my life!" Nishinoya yelled, jumping up in front of the blue-eyed setter.
"Me too!" cried Shoyo, bouncing alongside of him. "Are you sure you don't need our help cleaning up?"
"Don't worry, Shoyo..." Nakano began.
"...she's got this," said Asahi, Suga, and Daichi together, laughing.
"And I'll help her," said Tsukishima.
Kageyama was the last to take his leave, giving Nakano a warm hug. "Thanks, Naka-chan," he murmured. "I'm glad you and the beanpole seem to be doing well."
She chuckled. "Thanks, Tobio-chan." She handed him a small container.
"What's this?" he asked.
"Strawberry shortcake," she said, "You were the one who originally asked for it, right? So I figured you might want a little extra to take home."
He gave her a little smile and waved goodbye, chasing after Hinata, who yelled about beating him to the end of the block.
The sky exploded in sunset colors as Nakano and Tsukishima cleaned up the backyard. By the time they finished, the oranges and pinks had given way to blues and purples. The pair sat in the grass, once again enjoying their tradition of strawberry shortcake and soda, and conversation. As the stars slowly emerged, they chatted about the success of the team get together, with even Tsukki agreeing that it hadn't been too awful. Nakano chuckled at his high praise for the event. Silence fell between them as they stargazed. Tsukishima soon wrapped his arms around the girl, drawing her close to him and inhaling her scent.
"Mmmm...Roses," he sighed out, "I think this is the best part of today."
She snuggled into his embrace, giggling a little. "So, do you still want to see what color my sports bra is?" she asked.
He jumped a little bit as she reminded him of that exchange on the court. "You do love to keep tempting me, don't you, Roses?" he said, smirking as he kissed her temple. "Be careful, one day I might not be able to resist."
She laughed, and turned over in his arms to face him. "I'll show you, if you really want. Sports bras are more like tank tops anyway. You'll see a lot more skin the first time we go to the beach together."
He felt his face get hot, as he thought about Nakano in a bikini. "Well, here's hoping we're going to the beach tomorrow then," he said, trying to pull off a smirk, but knowing the blush across his cheeks reduced the impact of it. She smiled fondly at him.
"So will you tell me what was going on with you today?" she asked him suddenly.
"What do you mean?"
"You were surprisingly affectionate in front of the team today. That's not usually your kind of thing. And you seemed to be deliberately working at riding out their teasing, which honestly, they didn't really do much of. I think what happened at the training camp kind of made them realize they need to keep it under control."
I cannot put anything over on this girl whatsoever, he thought wryly. I am an open book to her. "Maybe I just wanted to be more romantic," he said. She arched a brow at him and waited. "Okay, maybe," he began, running a hand through her strawberry blonde hair, "I wanted you to know how incredible you are. How much I care for you. And how very lucky I feel to have you as part of my life. You deserve to know that, Roses."
"Kei, you don't have force yourself to be romantic in front..."
"Did it feel like I was forcing myself today? Because I wasn't. I wanted the team to see that I really care about you. Just like I want Mom and Akiteru to see how much you mean to me." He felt her stiffen up again at the mention of meeting his family. He gathered her close, caressing her skin. "Don't, Roses. Don't be so nervous. What on Earth are you so afraid of when it comes to meeting my family?"
Her voice was small, and she wouldn't meet his eyes. "What mother wants her son to date someone who is broken? Someone who is..."
"Someone who is brave? Someone who is kind and generous and giving of herself? Someone who isn't afraid to take on a challenge? Someone who never fails to encourage those around her? Someone who has overcome..."
"Please, Kei, stop." Tears were running down her cheeks. He brushed them away with his thumbs, taking her face in his hands and lifting her gaze to his.
"No I won't. Because that's what you are, Roses. Have you been through a lot? Sure. Are you still working through it? Yes. But so are we all. We're all broken, in some way. And you've already started to help me heal." His face was flushed, but his gaze was steady, looking straight into her bright blue eyes. "Please, Nakano, let me help you heal too. Let me bring you to my family and show them the wonderful person who for some crazy reason, chose me to be by her side. Believe me, they're going to be asking you why you put up with me, not the other way around." A wry smile twisted his lips.
She laughed despite herself, leaning her head into his chest. He lifted her chin again, bringing his warm and soft lips to meet hers. So they remained, kissing, gently caressing each other. Kei at last leaned in, licking her bottom lip, gaining access to her mouth, when they heard a door opening behind them.
"Kei-chan, it's time for you to go home. I do believe you'll be getting together tomorrow, won't you?" Emiko said from the doorway, her voice lightly amused.
"Yes ma'am," Kei answered, standing up and helping Nakano to her feet. "Goodnight, Roses," he whispered to the girl, walking her over to join her mother. "Goodnight, Emiko-san. Thank you again for a wonderful day."
"It was indeed," her mother said, earning herself a curious look from Nakano.
"Goodnight, Kei. I'll pick you up tomorrow at 10am, alright?"
"See you then," he called, waving as he headed out of the backyard.
🏐🏐🏐
She sighed contentedly, feeling his strong, warm arms around her. Their legs were tangled together, and she could feel his breathing pattern against her back as they dozed in bed. It felt so good to be snuggled up close to him. She didn't want to move. Sunlight streamed through the window, warming them both. She gently rolled over in his arms, seeing the light play on his soft blonde hair. She reached up to run her fingers through it...
And then her alarm sounded. Nakano's eyes fluttered open as she grabbed for her phone to silence it. The warmth of the dream faded as she came awake, alone in her bedroom. Ugh, she thought, I wish Kei were really here. That would have been a much nicer way to wake up. But at least we'll spend the day together - just the two of us. She smiled as she thought over the plans she'd made for them today.
At precisely ten in the morning, Nakano rang the Tsukishima's doorbell. Kei opened the door at almost the exact moment she did so.
"Good morning!" she chimed, "Someone sure appears to be eager."
He smirked at her, and promptly wrapped her up in his arms. "Good morning, Roses," he said into her hair. "I have so been looking forward to this."
She laughed. "You don't even know what we're doing yet!"
"Doesn't matter. We're together, just the two of us. I don't care if all we do is go sit in the park all day, as long as we don't have to deal with anyone else."
He locked up his house and took her hand as they began walking. She chuckled at him. "So are you saying for our fourth date all you want to do is Netflix and chill?"
He arched a brow at her. "Actually, that doesn't sound too bad." He slipped an arm around her shoulders, pulling her into their favorite way of walking. "Would you spend the whole day snuggled on my bed with me watching movies?" he asked, grinning at her.
"I think I could do that," she replied, "but not today. Today we have someplace to be."
"If I ask where we're going, will you tell me?"
"Nope."
"Fair enough," he said with a small smile.
The pair chatted off and on as they made their way into Sendai city. Tsukishima's eyes widened as they approached what he had to assume was their destination.
"Umino-Mori Aquarium?" he asked, "Is that where we're going?"
She looked over at him, her face a little nervous. "That's the plan...is that okay?"
He chuckled. "Absolutely. I haven't been here since I was a little kid. Thanks, Roses," he said, kissing the side of her face.
After beginning with lunch in the aquarium's cafe, the couple made their way into the exhibits and began to explore. Tsukishima was soon being pulled around by the hand by his excited and happy girlfriend, whose eyes seemed to light up every time she saw another unusual sea creature. I had no idea she loved animals so much, he thought. I mean, I guess I knew she loved pandas, but I didn't think she'd get so excited at seeing things like sting rays and octopi. He found himself watching her almost as often as he watched the animals that seemed to so captivate her. He couldn't keep the smile off his face as he stared at her, her face lit up with wonder. I wonder if this is what I looked like when we visited the dinosaurs at the Tohoku University museum, he thought to himself.
They eventually found themselves in the Jellyfish Room. Tanks full of peacefully floating jellies created a calming atmosphere, and the two settled down onto a bench to relax for a while. They sat quietly for a bit, hands intertwined, just staring at the beautiful jellyfish.
"I had no idea you loved animals this much, Naka-chan," Tsukki whispered to her.
"Mmmm," she hummed in response, "if things hadn't gone well with my leg surgeries, I think I'd have probably looked seriously into becoming a marine biologist. I love pretty much all animals, but there's something special about the ocean."
"You don't think you might still want to become one?" he asked, rather surprised.
"Volleyball was my first passion, and now that it's becoming clear that I'll be able to play again, I want to see how far I can take that," she said. "There's a chance I won't get very far, of course, and maybe I'll still look into marine biology as a career. But honestly, I think I'm more likely to want to pursue something like sports medicine. Something that will keep me involved with the court, even when I'm not able to play at a high level anymore."
"My girlfriend, the volleyball idiot," Tsukki said, rolling his eyes but still smiling.
She squeezed his hand. "Hope you can live with that, gorgeous," she said.
"I'll find a way." He shot her a devilish look.
"What about you? Have you thought about what you might like to do after high school?"
He thought for a moment. I haven't really considered what comes after Karasuno, he thought, high school is all still so new to me. "I guess I really haven't thought too much about it, other than planning on college."
"Well, if you could do anything, any job at all, what would you want to do? What would make you happy to get up in the morning?" she asked him, staring at his face with interest.
He looked at her. Waking up with her, his mind supplied, that would make me happy every morning. He blinked at his own thought. Did I actually just think that? He blushed deeply enough that she noticed, even in the dim light of the Jellyfish Room. "I...I guess...I'd like to work somewhere like the Tohoku Museum...where they have dinosaurs..." he managed to stammer out softly.
Her face lit up. "That would be amazing, Tsukki! What a cool job that would be. Why does it make you embarrassed?"
I should tell her. I should let her know how much I care for her, how incredible she is. How she makes me feel. "It...uh...wasn't the first thing to pop into my head when you asked me," was all that came out of his mouth.
"Oh?" she said, clearly interested, "What was?"
I really should say it. That was what yesterday was all about, right? About not keeping those feelings to myself, but making sure she knows about them. He ran a hand through her hair, then brought it down to cup her cheek. As he opened his mouth to speak, several squealing children ran by, followed by their mother, trying to catch them. "Ask me again sometime when we're alone, okay?" he said quietly, blushing again and smiling.
She gave him a slightly confused but happy look, clearly wondering what was going on in his head. The two resumed watching the jellyfish in companionable silence. He's already come a long way, she thought, given that he just touched my hair and face in public like that. Whatever came into his head must be a pretty private sort of thing. He's really trying to push himself past his own boundaries, for me. Our relationship already feels like we've been together for a long time, even though it really hasn't been. Sometimes, I feel like maybe we're moving too fast, she thought, but then again, given how many people have cautioned us about becoming intimate, maybe we're moving way slower than the world expects! She stifled a giggle, closing her eyes, grateful that Kei had come into her life when he did.
After a few minutes, Nakano checked her phone, and then stood up. "Come on, Tsukki, it's time to get moving."
"Where are we headed now?" he asked, getting to his feet.
"You'll see."
Minutes later, the two had taken seats in the Stadium, where the last sea life show of the day was about to begin. They watched as dolphins and sea lions played and performed for the crowd (and for generous helpings of their favorite treats). Nakano smiled and stared in awe, clapping her hands frequently at the motions of the graceful animals.
When the show concluded, she led Tsukki to a special area in the Plaza of Marine Animals where a young lady was allowing guests to meet one of the sea lions. A long line had formed, and yet, as other families tried to get in line behind them, Nakano would insist they go before them. After the third time, Kei whispered to the girl. "Why do you keep letting everyone in front of us? Don't you want to meet the sea lion?"
"We need to be last in line. Trust me on this one, Tsukki."
He shrugged and waited patiently. Nakano on the other hand, was fidgety with excitement. What can she have in mind here? She obviously wants to meet the animal, but why do we have to be last? Confusion settled on Tsukki's face as they waited.
Finally, it was their turn to meet the sea lion. But Nakano was looking at the lady handler with a big smile. "Ishida-san!" she cried.
"Nakano-chan! There you are at last! It's so good to see you!" The young woman gave Nakano a big hug. "Look at you! No wheelchair, walking around - it's amazing! And my goodness, you look so grown up. It's been...what...about three years since I last saw you?"
"I think so! Ishida-san, this is my boyfriend, Tsukishima Kei. Kei, this is Ishida Jiyu. She helped me with my physical therapy right after my accident."
"Nice to meet you, Tsukishima-kun," the lady said, smiling.
"A pleasure, Ishida-san," Tsukishima replied with a small bow. "Pardon my curiosity, but are you a physical therapist and an animal trainer?"
She laughed, "Neither. I was a high school volunteer at the swimming pool where Nakano-chan would come to get her exercise back then. Now, I'm in university studying to be a marine biologist." Several sharp barks came from the animal waiting patiently next to them. Ishida-san chuckled, "Yes, yes, Taiyo, I know. We're ignoring you, and that just won't do." She fed the animal a small treat. "Nakano-chan, Tsukishima-kun, this is Taiyo. You can pet her, if you'd like."
Nakano knelt down, gently stroking the animal's neck. She murmured soft words of greeting and comfort to the beautiful sea lion. Tsukki looked at Ishida-san, as if asking if he could do so as well, she nodded. He also got down on one knee, hesitantly offering out a hand in the direction of the sea lion. Taiyo looked at the hand quizzically, then grunted and bucked her head up to meet Tsukki's palm. The boy's eyes widened as the animal nuzzled itself against his hand.
Ishida-san laughed. "Well, that's a good sign! She likes you, Tsukishima-kun!" Taiyo poked her nose against Tsukki's face, dislodging his glasses and pushing him back a little bit. "She definitely likes you!"
Tsukki chuckled and fixed his glasses. "She's very friendly."
"Should I be concerned?" Nakano gave Tsukki a mock glare as she tried to hold back her laughter.
"Nah...she's got fish breath." Tsukki said. Taiyo barked again. "No offence, I'm sure you're supposed to have fish breath," the boy told the sea lion, patting her head and neck.
Ishida-san laughed again. "Well, this bodes well for the next part of your adventure, as Taiyo here is the oldest of our sea lions and generally keeps the two young boys in line. If she likes you, you should be in good shape. Ready to go?"
"Huh?" Tsukki looked at Nakano. "Go where?" He stood up as Ishida-san began to lead Taiyo away, Nakano following them.
"Get ready, Tsukki, this is gonna be amazing."
Twenty minutes later, Tsukishima and Nakano emerged from separate changing rooms, each wearing a skin-tight body suit designed for diving. Both blushed at the sight of their significant other in something so body-hugging. Ishida-san walked up just as the two became almost able to look each other in the eyes again. She too, was still in her wet suit.
"Alright, are you ready?" she asked the pair.
"Are we really going swimming with the sea lions?" Tsukishima asked incredulously. Nakano nodded, clearly too excited to speak.
Ishida-san led the way to the pool where three sea lions were playing. She handed Tsukishima a strap to allow him to keep his glasses on, turning them into a quasi-pair of goggles. She started to step into the water, walking to the edge of the shallows.
"This is where the drop off is, so be careful. You can sit up on the edge at first if you're not sure you want to go right into swimming with them. I'll be here the whole time, so don't worry. This is their playground, so we recommend you follow their lead. You've already met Taiyo, of course." She indicated the two other sea lions. "These are the two boys. Both are still young, a little over a year, which is why they are still smaller than our girl here. The lighter colored one is Hoshi, and the dark one is Tsuki." Tsukishima looked surprised.
"Sun, Star, and Moon," Nakano said, looking at Tsukki, "You've got a sea lion namesake!"
"I hope he likes me," Tsukishima said, looking a little nervous.
Ishida-san smiled. "Well, Taiyo does, look, she's on her way over. Come sit here, Tsukishima-kun." She indicated the edge of the shallows. Tsukki did as he was told, and Nakano quickly joined him.
Taiyo approached the pair, coming up on the shallows to sit with them. Nakano and Tsukki petted the sea lion again as the other two swam up, frolicking around and splashing at them. Taiyo started nudging Tsukishima's shoulder and making grunts and barks at him.
Ishida-san called to the boy from the main pool. "She'd like you to swim, Tsukishima-kun,"
Tsukki looked at Nakano. "Are you sure I should do this?" Taiyo barked and poked his shoulder again.
Nakano laughed. "Yes, I think you'd better give it a try."
Tsukishima took a deep breath and slipped off the edge of the shallows. Taiyo dove in and started swimming around the boy as he slowly swam around the pool. Hoshi soon joined them, splashing around and barking.
Tsuki swam over to the shallows and slid up on to them, sitting next to Nakano. She reached out and patted the young sea lion on the head. Moments later, he flopped down, lying with his head in Nakano's lap. She continued to pet him as she laughed.
"Now who does this remind me of?" she sang out, trying to get Tsukishima's attention. He swam over to her, leaning his arms on the ledge. "Looks like your namesake does indeed take after you," she said, chuckling.
"Great," Tsukishima deadpanned, "I've been replaced by a sea lion."
The girl smiled. "He is adorable, but I'd never replace you."
"Sorry buddy, looks like I win," Tsukishima said to Tsuki the sea lion. The creature flipped its tail and splashed Tsukishima in the face. The two teens laughed.
They swam along with the sea lions for about 30 minutes before Ishida-san indicated that their time was up. Ishida-san once again met them outside the changing rooms once they had dried off and gotten dressed.
"Thank you so much, Ishida-san! This was really incredible!" Nakano gushed as she hugged the redhead again.
"Yes, thank you. I never thought I'd have the chance to go swimming with sea lions," Tsukishima said.
"You're both very welcome. Now, I have something for you both to remember this by. Since the aquarium is closed for the day and you can't visit the gift shop, I took the liberty of having these ready for you," she opened the bag she was carrying and took out two plush sea lions, a large one and a small darker one. "Taiyo for you," she said, handing the larger one to Tsukishima, "and Tsuki for you," she finished, giving the darker one to Nakano.
"Oh my goodness! They're adorable! Thank you!" Nakano was overcome. Tsukishima just smiled.
"Now," Ishida-san handed Nakano a piece of paper. "Here's the address of where you're headed next. When you arrive, ask for Ryugazaki-san. He'll have everything ready for you. Come on, I'll walk you out."
Once they left the aquarium, Tsukishima looked curiously at Nakano. "Exactly where are we headed now? And who is Ryugazaki-san?"
"You'll find out when we get there," she replied, hailing a taxi. "I'm not done with you yet, Kei."