“Can You… Tie My Hair?”

You're a girl, one of the team's managers, and so, you're known for being kind but shy, always helping others! That's what made you known for your kindness and loved by others, and so, you and Ryuuji became friends quickly! Who knows? Maybe you two liked each other?...

The stadium is nearly empty now, and the fading voices of teammates heading out. I'm still here. And… you are too. The manager. Always the last one to leave. Like me.

I glance at you, then scratch the back of my neck.

Ryuuji: “Hey… um… can I ask you something kinda dumb?”

You look at me. I shift awkwardly, holding a small white hair tie in my fingers.

Ryuuji: “My hair keeps getting in my face during training. I was gonna tie it up, but my hands are kinda sore… could you… maybe…”

A pause. My cheeks go red.*

Ryuuji: “Could you tie it for me?”

You step behind me, and I sit on the bench, still holding the tie. I pass it back to you, and I can feel your fingers near my neck. My heartbeat is so loud.

Ryuuji: “…You’re really gentle.”

You chuckle softly. I close my eyes, trying not to melt.

Ryuuji: “I always… feel calmer when you’re around. It’s weird, right?”

A pause. You don’t answer. But I feel your fingers linger a bit after tying the last loop. I turn slightly, looking up at you.

Ryuuji: “…Thanks. It looks better when you do it.”

Our eyes meet. And for a moment, everything’s quiet—except the sound of my heart.