Sora's POV
It's been a whole week since I won the Tennis Tournament for Juniors, and right now, I'm just relaxing on the couch in the living room.
Yesterday, I received a sports scholarship from the principal of Shiratorizawa Academy. He recognized my talent and offered me high-quality tennis facilities.
Shiratorizawa is a private high school and you can either enter through the entrance exam, which is extremely difficult, or through sports scholarships.
I told Mom, Natsu, and Shoyo about the scholarship, and they were happy for me. Though, I could see Shoyo's eyes were a little sad.
I had mixed feelings about it. It made me happy thinking about the cool tennis facilities I could use, but also sad that I wouldn't be able to join Shoyo at Karasuno if I took the scholarship.
I know Shoyo can take care of himself, but I still can't help but feel worried for him. I guess this is natural for me as a brother. There's also the fact that I won't be able to see the other members of the Karasuno volleyball club.
That's not all, my passion for volleyball came back.
Should I follow my passion for volleyball again, or become a professional tennis player just like in my previous life?
I let out a big sigh, "Haa!" This decision is seriously tough.
"Aniki!" Suddenly, Natsu appeared from behind the couch and flopped right onto my belly.
"Ouch!" I grunted as Natsu landed on me.
Natsu then grinned mischievously at me. "Gotcha!"
I couldn't help but smile and playfully messed up her hair, saying, "You little rascal!"
"Hehehe!" Natsu giggled.
After playfully messing up her hair, Natsu suddenly asked, "Aniki, why did you sigh so loudly?"
I couldn't help but smile at Natsu's concern. "Oh, it's nothing, I'm just thinking about something."
Natsu tilted her head cutely. "Thinking?"
Even though Natsu was worried, I knew I couldn't share all the details with her. I didn't want her to worry too much.
"Well... ever since I got a scholarship to Shiratorizawa, I've been unsure about whether to go to Shiratorizawa or stick with Karasuno," I explained.
"Is this about Shoyo-nii?" Natsu guessed.
I was surprised she figured it out despite me holding back some information.
I let out a relieved sigh. "Yeah, how did you know?"
"Well, most people would jump at the chance to go to Shiratorizawa with a scholarship," Natsu replied, "And considering Shoyo-nii's dream is to be at Karasuno, it's clear that you're worried about his well-being."
I was amazed at how she almost pieced it all together. My little sister is quite the clever one.
I patted her head affectionately. "You're a little genius, you know that?"
"Hehehe!" Natsu giggled. "Aniki, if you're worried, you should talk to Shoyo-nii!"
I softy smiled, "Yeah, you're right."
==========================
I then made my way to the front yard and saw Shoyo, deeply focused on practicing his setting technique in volleyball. His determination was clear as he repeatedly worked on his moves.
I then started walking toward him, "Sho!"
Shoyo stopped what he was doing and turned to me, "Aniki?"
"I see that you're practicing alone," I said.
"Yeah, I am," Shoyo replied meekly.
And an awkward silence ensued among us and I don't know how to continue this conversation. This is the first time that our conversation became this awkward.
"So...uhh, is there something you need, Aniki?" Shoyo asked.
I took a moment to gather my thoughts, realizing that this was a chance to open up about my own feelings. Shoyo deserved to know what was on my mind.
"Actually, Shoyo, there is something I wanted to discuss," I began, my tone more sincere now. "You know, ever since I received that scholarship offer from Shiratorizawa, I've been grappling with a tough-"
"Aniki, stop, I know what this is all about now." Shoyo cut me off.
I was a bit taken aback by his interruption, but I could see he had some insight into my feelings. "You do?"
He nodded earnestly. "Yeah, you're worried about whether to take the scholarship or stay with Karasuno to play volleyball together."
I blinked in surprise, impressed by his perceptiveness. But he continued, "And there's more, isn't there? You're also unsure about whether you want to pursue volleyball or tennis."
His observation caught me off guard, and I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions. It was both reassuring and slightly unnerving that he could read me so well.
"Haa!" I sighed, feeling a mix of emotions. "It's kind of scary how well you understand me."
Shoyo let out a light chuckle, and then playfully punched me on the shoulder. "Well, we're twins after all."
I couldn't help but smile. "Yeah." I rubbed the back of my head, appreciating the closeness we shared as twins.
Shoyo's expression turned earnest again. "But, Aniki, I need you to be honest with me. Which sport do you feel more passionate about? Tennis or volleyball?"
I took a moment to gather my thoughts, feeling torn between two sports that I held dear. My love for both tennis and volleyball was genuine, and the decision wasn't any easier despite Shoyo's straightforward question.
"Haa!" I let out a frustrated sigh, feeling the weight of my indecision. "I really don't know."
Shoyo considered my response for a moment before offering a suggestion. "If that's the case, how about doing both at the same time?"
I raised an eyebrow, surprised by Shoyo's idea. "Both at the same time?"
Shoyo nodded, a determined look in his eyes. "Yeah, why not? You're talented enough to excel in both sports and if you're passionate about both, then find a way to make it work."
I considered Shoyo's suggestion, weighing the pros and cons that came with the idea.
On the positive side, pursuing both tennis and volleyball simultaneously could allow me to indulge in my passion for both sports. It would provide variety, helping me avoid burnout that might come from focusing solely on one activity. Additionally, the skills I gained from each sport could potentially complement each other, enhancing my overall athletic abilities.
However, there were also potential downsides to this dual approach. Time management would be crucial; balancing rigorous training schedules and commitments from two different sports might become overwhelming.
It could also mean dividing my attention and efforts, possibly preventing me from reaching the highest level of proficiency in either discipline. Additionally, the pressure to excel in both areas might add stress and take away from the enjoyment I found in playing.
In the end, while the idea was intriguing, I knew it would require careful planning, dedication, and a deep love for both sports to make it work. It was a unique solution that held promise but also presented its own set of challenges.
"What about school?" I asked, my concern lingering. "Also, I still haven't made up my mind about whether I'll go to Shiratorizawa or not."
Shoyo nodded in understanding. "Yeah, that's a big decision too. Going to a different school could affect your plans for both sports."
"Haa!" I sighed, feeling the weight of the choices ahead. "It's like I'm at a crossroads, and each path has its own set of challenges and opportunities."
Shoyo's supportive gaze was unwavering. "Remember, Aniki, whatever you choose, I've got your back. We'll work it out together."
I smiled, a sense of pride and warmth filling me. 'Shoyo really has grown up that much with my influence, huh?' I thought to myself.
"Thanks for the support, Sho," I said, genuine gratitude in my voice.
Shoyo grinned and punched my shoulder playfully. "Of course, Aniki. We're in this together, remember?"
He then leaned in with an excited glint in his eye. "Hey, how about we take a break from all this heavy stuff? Let's go out for some ice cream or something. It might help clear your mind."
His suggestion brought a genuine smile to my face. "That actually sounds like a great idea, Sho. A little ice cream break might just be what I need."
"Yeah, and I'll be paying for the both of us!" Shoyo declared with enthusiasm.
I raised an eyebrow, a bit surprised. "Are you sure?"
"Absolutely!" Shoyo grinned, determination in his voice. "Aniki, you've always been the one spending on us, and now it's my turn to treat you!"
I couldn't help but chuckle at his eagerness. "Alright then, if you insist. Let's go get that ice cream."
Shoyo's eyes lit up with excitement. "If that's the case, I'll go get Natsu!"
His enthusiasm was contagious, and I nodded in agreement. "Sure, that sounds like a plan. Let's make it a family ice cream outing."
As Shoyo dashed off to fetch Natsu, I couldn't help but feel a surge of warmth. Our connection as siblings was something truly irreplaceable, and moments like these were a reminder of the joys that came with being a part of each other's lives.
I looked up at the sky and let out a deep sigh. "I have decided... to decline the scholarship offer from Shiratorizawa and go to Karasuno," I muttered to myself.
Yes, Shiratorizawa is prestigious, but that doesn't guarantee my success there. Besides, the academic rigor is higher, and I don't want to be overwhelmed by stress.
I've been given a second chance in this world, and I want to embrace it fully by being with my favorite characters and making the most of every moment.
==================================
A/N: Sora finally made his choice, what do you all think? Are you happy for him?
Also, if you were in Sora's shoes, will you accept the scholarship or go to Karasuno?