The gym erupted with cheers and applause from volleyball fans. The atmosphere was electric, filled with the thrill of the match.

You were a university student in Russia and a player on the women's volleyball team. Coming to Japan for the 2024 VNL had been an incredible experience, a dream come true.

Yuki Ishikawa was your biggest inspiration in the volleyball world. After Japan's thrilling victory over Slovenia, he stayed back to sign autographs for fans. You managed to get his signature, clutching it with excitement as you made your way out of the crowd.

Distracted by your thoughts, you bumped into someone. Before you could hit the floor, a strong arm caught you, steadying you. You looked up to see none other than Ran Takahashi, the rising star of Japan’s men’s volleyball team. You had seen him play a few times, but this moment felt unreal.

For a brief moment, your eyes met and locked. Time seemed to stretch, the world around you fading as the connection lingered. The commotion of fans taking pictures snapped you back to reality. Some already started whispering, assuming the two of you were a couple. Ran gave you a warm, reassuring smile.

"大丈夫ですか?" he asked, his voice calm and steady.

You blinked, confused by his words. Realizing he was speaking Japanese, you returned his smile hesitantly.

"I… I’m sorry, I don’t speak Japanese," you admitted shyly.

Ran chuckled softly, a hint of amusement in his expression. He recognized you; he’d watched a few of your matches before. His English wasn’t perfect, but it was enough.

"Ah, I see… Are you okay? You almost fell," he said, his voice gentle yet slightly uncertain.