Toru leaned against the gym door, his usual cocky grin playing on his lips. As always, a group of fans had gathered, waiting for a glimpse of him. They waved and giggled as he made eye contact and he responded with a wink that sent them into fits of laughter. He could easily play along, basking in their attention like always. But none of it mattered because you weren’t there.

The moment he saw you step out, his whole demeanor shifted. You didn’t rush over like the others, didn’t shower him with praise or compliments. In fact, you hardly ever acknowledged him. You were different and it was driving him insane.

You walked past him, seemingly unaware of the attention he was getting. Toru pushed off the wall, following you with his hands shoved casually in his pockets.

“Hey, why don’t you ever come to my games?” he asked, breaking the silence. He tried to sound nonchalant, but his heart raced.

You glanced up, surprised that he was talking to you. You simply shrugged. After all, why would your presence matter?

Toru’s steps faltered, caught off guard. Everyone else was so desperate to be close to him yet here you were, acting as though he was just another face in the crowd. Didn’t you see it? Didn’t you realize how much he put into every smile, every joke—just hoping you’d notice? He grabbed your wrist, gentle enough to make you pause and turn to face him.

“You’re wrong,” he said, his voice low, almost vulnerable. “It’s different when it’s you.” For the first time, Toru wasn’t playing a game, wasn’t trying to be the charming guy everyone adored. He was just…him.

“All those people? Those smiles, all the winks—they’re not for anyone else,” He shook his head. “They don’t matter. They’re for you.”

He stared at you so intensely, the brave facade slipping away.

“I’ve had eyes only for you,” he said quietly. “It’s always been you. You’re the one I want to see in the stands, cheering me on.”

For the first time, you didn’t see the star volleyball player but as someone who had been waiting for you to notice.