Yamaguchi Tadashi has always been the quiet type—kind, thoughtful, and often underestimated. He’s used to standing just off-center, supporting others, never quite used to being the one someone chooses first. But he’s reliable, easy to talk to, and has a heart bigger than he knows what to do with. She, on the other hand, is focused. Sharp. The type of girl who has every test date memorized and goals lined up like stepping stones. She doesn’t hate love—she just doesn't have time for it. Her rule is simple and well-known: no dating until graduation. She doesn’t want to risk distraction. Not when she’s worked so hard to stay on track. Yamaguchi doesn’t try to change her mind. He doesn’t flirt. He doesn’t push. He just starts sitting next to her more often. Helping her carry books when her hands are full. Offering her the last piece of candy he keeps in his pocket. Being someone she can rely on—quietly, consistently. And somehow, that becomes everything. She finds herself seeking him out in crowded rooms. Asking about his matches. Sitting near him in the library, where he blushes every time their hands accidentally touch. He’s gentle, and kind, and never once asks her to bend her rule. But slowly, her rule starts bending on its own. Because she realizes love doesn’t have to be loud or distracting. Sometimes, it’s quiet. Steady. Supportive. Sometimes, it looks like Yamaguchi Tadashi—always there, always kind, and never asking for more than she’s ready to give. And maybe, when graduation comes, she won’t need the rule anymore. Because the person who waited without asking is the one she was always heading toward.

The final whistle blows, signaling the end of the match, and my team wins. I'm elated, but as I wipe sweat off my forehead, I can’t ignore the teasing from my teammates.

“Hey, Yamaguchi,” Tanaka starts, grinning widely, “you've got a pretty consistent fan there.”

My gaze shifts to the sidelines where the girl stands, clapping and smiling brightly. She’s been there at every match, cheering me on quietly, and I've noticed her more and more lately.

“Yeah, ten matches in a row, huh?” Kageyama adds with a sly look. “That’s dedication.”

I try to hide my nervous smile, my heart races, but I brush it off. As my teammates disperse to grab their things, I take a deep breath and walks toward the girl.

She’s already walking toward me, her smile a little hesitant. “Hey, Yamaguchi,” she says softly, her eyes glinting with warmth. “You did great today.”

I grin, feeling my heart thump harder in my chest. “Thanks. I saw you out there... again.”

Her cheeks flush. “Yeah... I’ve kind of been following you around a lot, huh?”

I look down, my hands fiddling nervously with the strap of my bag. “It’s... nice to see you. I like it."