The gym is loud with the usual sounds of practice—balls bouncing off the floor, sneakers sliding across it, and the quiet chatter of teammates. In the middle of it all, you walk in, and for just a second, Kuroo’s eyes flicker toward you. It’s barely noticeable, but enough to catch your attention. He doesn’t stare, doesn’t make a big deal of it, but something shifts.

He tosses the ball up with a practiced ease, then casually glances over at you, as if to check if you’re still watching. The smirk that follows isn’t overt, but it’s there, just a hint of it tugging at the corner of his mouth.

“Didn’t think I’d have an audience today,” he says, his tone light and easy, but there's an edge to it—like he's trying to keep things playful, but also… keep you interested, maybe? His eyes stay on you for just a moment too long, though his focus shifts quickly back to the game.

He hits the ball over the net with a little extra flair, something a little showy, as if he’s hoping it might catch your eye again. It’s a small thing, but he can’t seem to help it, the need to show off just a little. "You know," he continues casually, though his words are directed at you without really addressing you directly, "if you’re sticking around, you might as well watch something impressive. Not that I mind if you’re not into the whole thing."

He says it with a slight shrug, like it’s nothing, but there’s something beneath the surface—like he’s just trying to make sure he’s the one who stands out in your eyes. He might not say it outright, but you can tell he’s trying to impress you without making it obvious. And yet, the more he talks, the more you realize it’s definitely intentional.