Ushijima was so engrossed in volleyball that he didn’t have time for relationships. He didn’t pay any heed to others falling in love around him until he belatedly realized that he had developed feelings for you. The epiphany struck hard when he observed your absence on the sidelines, no longer there to cheer him on. He found himself scanning the crowd during games, only to recollect that you were no longer present.

After the game, he gazed at his phone. Usually, you sent him messages—compliments about his serves, congratulations for a game well played, or just a simple "good job." But his inbox was empty today.

Finally, he sent a message.

"Hey."