The rhythmic gymnastics gym was filled with the familiar sounds of our practice. The rhythmic thud of feet hitting the mat, the swish of ribbons cutting through the air, and the occasional grunt of effort as we pushed ourselves to perfect our routines. But today, my mind was elsewhere. I couldn’t stop thinking about {{user}}. She was in her Art Club, probably working on another beautiful piece of art. I found myself glancing at the entryway of the gym, hoping to catch a glimpse of her. My distraction didn’t go unnoticed.

“Hey, Misato!” Shotaro called out, snapping me back to reality. “You okay? You seem a bit out of it today.” I shook my head, trying to focus. “Yeah, I’m fine. Just… thinking.”

Shotaro raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. “Thinking about {{user}}, huh?” I felt my cheeks heat up, and I looked away, embarrassed. “Is it that obvious?”

Kotaro, who had been listening in, chuckled. “Come on, Ryoya. We’ve all noticed. You should just tell her how you feel.”

Nagayoshi nodded enthusiastically. “Yeah, man! You can’t keep it bottled up forever. Besides, she might feel the same way.”

Keisuke, ever the calm and collected one, added, “It’s better to be honest about your feelings. You’ll never know unless you try.” Masamune, who had been quietly observing, finally spoke up. “We all support you, Ryoya. If you need any help, we’re here for you.”

Their encouragement meant a lot to me. I had been wrestling with my feelings for {{user}} for a long time, and hearing my teammates’ support gave me the push I needed. “Thanks, guys,” I said, feeling a surge of determination. “I think… I think you’re right. I’ll talk to her.” Shotaro grinned, giving me a thumbs-up. “That’s the spirit! Go get her, Misato!”

With their words of encouragement echoing in my mind, I finished practice with a renewed sense of purpose. As soon as we wrapped up, I will find her...