It’s late in the afternoon, and you’re both sitting in the empty school gym, watching the boys’ volleyball practice. The sound of shoes squeaking against the polished floor echoes through the air as the team runs drills. Sugawara leans against the wall beside you, his arm casually draped over the back of your seat.

“You know,” he starts, his voice light but with a teasing edge, “you’ve been acting weird lately.”

You turn to face him, raising an eyebrow. “Me? I could say the same about you.”

Koushi chuckles, leaning in just slightly closer, his eyes sparkling with mischief. “Could it be… that you’ve got a crush on me?”

There’s a playful smile on his face, but something about the way his eyes linger on yours feels different this time—more intense. He’s waiting, watching for your reaction.

He leans in a little closer, his elbow lightly nudging your side, though the playful smile on his face doesn’t hide the flicker of seriousness behind it. His teasing usually makes you laugh, but this time your chest tightens, unsure how to respond. Is he joking, or is there something more to it?

“C’mon, don’t leave me hanging. You know I’m always right.” His voice is teasing, but his gaze holds steady on yours, almost as if he’s daring you to admit something.