Chapter 3 | Skirmish 

 

Having witnessed the great vibe of Class 11’s team firsthand, I’m even more curious about the showdown between the two teams, but before that, I’ve got my own immediate challenges to tackle.

Thanks to the recent discussion, I’m set to participate in the class match with softball, but practice hasn’t progressed one bit. Even if I wanted to practice on my own, the school field’s taken up by the baseball and soccer clubs, and borrowing equipment to practice elsewhere is banned due to concerns about bothering nearby residents—no park sessions allowed.

So, outside of PE class, there’s not much I can do.

That’s why, during the open time at lunch break, I ended up doing some catch with Nozomu for now.

“—Maki, I’ll start with slow throws, okay? Keep your eyes on the ball, and try not to move your glove too far from in front of you.”

“Whoa… like this?”

“Yeah, yeah, that’s it—looking good. Huh, for someone practically new at this, you’re doing pretty decent, aren’t you?”

“Oh, much obliged.”

Maybe it’s Nozomu’s solid teaching, but even with the ball thrown from a fair distance, I’m somehow managing to catch it in my glove.

He says “slow,” but Nozomu’s throws have some weight to them—my hand buzzes with each catch. Still, the satisfying thwap as the ball lands in the glove doesn’t feel half bad.

“By the way, Nozomu, what position are you playing? Softball’s underhand pitching, but you’re still going for pitcher, right?”

“Yup. It’s been a while since I last played softball, so I need to practice to get the feel back. What about you, Maki—outfield?”

“Yeah. I’m not cut out for pitcher or catcher, and infield seems tough with all the quick ball handling and teamwork stuff to memorize. So, by process of elimination.”

It’s not set in stone yet, but I’ll probably end up in right field. Nozomu’s the ace of the baseball club, but the rest of our team should be total beginners at this, so the plan’s to put the more athletic guys in left field, where right-handed batters tend to pull the ball.

“So, what about batting practice? I could help with tee work since it doesn’t take much space, but… it’s gotta be the batting cages at that arcade, right?”

“Yeah. It costs a bit, but it’s perfect for getting used to fast pitches. Umi’s already planning to head there right after school today for practice.”

“Maki doing an after-school arcade date… You’re living a pretty normal teenage life after all, huh.”

“It’s practice, practice. Well, we probably won’t be swinging bats the whole time, so yeah, we might sneak in a little fun.”

The goal’s practice, no doubt, but Umi’s been buzzing with excitement since morning, so I’ll likely end up tagging along for whatever she’s got in mind.

It’s been a while since we last played arcade games or tried our luck at prize machines, and… oh yeah, maybe snapping a two-shot photo in a purikura booth. She’s been obsessively researching the latest photo booth models on her phone, so resistance is probably futile—I’m getting dragged in.

Hit by the double whammy of lunch plus some light exercise, I fought off an fiercer-than-usual wave of drowsiness to survive afternoon classes. As planned, I headed with Umi to our usual game center.

The slightly dim interior and the noisy clamor echoing from all directions.

It feels kinda nostalgic.

“Maki, c’mon, over here! We’ve got stuff to do later, so let’s knock out practice first.”

“No, I mean, practice is the main point… Hey, don’t run ahead!”

It’s not a weekend or anything—just a regular weekday—and this is honestly my first time hitting the town with Umi like this. Usually, weekday hangouts are at my place, so for this rare after-school date, even Umi’s voice next to me is bubbling with excitement.

“Speaking of, are you sure it’s okay not inviting Amami-san? I’m happy it’s just us two, but she’s gotta be holding back from hanging out with you, right?”

“I did invite her, but Yuu said she’s got plans with someone else. Probably basketball practice, I’d guess? The girls she’s with seem busy and can only make time on weekdays.”

“Huh. Amami-san’s really putting in the effort, huh.”

She’s likely roped in a coach from her middle school days. Umi and Amami-san went to an all-girls school known for its strong sports programs, so it wouldn’t be surprising if she’s got basketball club friends from back then.

I don’t hear much about Umi’s middle school days, but maybe it’s someone she knows too.

While mulling over this and that, I held Umi’s hand and headed to the floor with the pitching machines. The last time we were here was about six months ago—back when Umi was still just my “friend”—so it’s been a while.

Looking back, it feels like that’s when things between me and Umi started deepening, bit by bit.

“It’s been a while, so let’s start with 100 kph to get the feel back. Try batting 300 yen’s worth, and once you’re used to it, we’ll bump it to 120 kph.”

“Y-Yes, ma’am. Please take care of me, Coach.”

“Good. I’ll stick with you ’til you nail it, so be ready for that… Hehe, Maki, I’m rooting for you—do your best!”

“Yeah. Well, I’ll give it a shot.”

Hoping to impress my girlfriend watching from outside the cage, I put on the safety helmet and stepped into the batter’s box.

It’s been ages since I last gripped a metal bat, but maybe my body remembers—surprisingly, the grip feels natural in my hands, and the bat’s weight doesn’t seem too heavy. Compared to my scrawny days, my body’s gotten a bit sturdier, so swinging with some force shouldn’t be an issue.

“Maki, keep your eyes on the ball ’til it hits the bat. Don’t worry about hitting it forward—if your form’s solid, it’ll naturally fly sharp and clean.”

“…Got it.”

Nodding to Umi’s now-familiar advice, I swing the bat. Nozomu taught me the form, so now it’s just about putting it into practice.

—Clink.

“Oh.”

“Hey, it hit!”

Guess all that basic practice paid off—a weak grounder, sure, but it flies toward the machine-side net with decent momentum.

“Nice! Keep it up—just try hitting a little more under the ball!”

“Mm.”

Nodding toward Umi, who’s beaming and cheering me on, I keep swinging at the pitches.

It’s a slow pace, but all the effort I’ve quietly put in wasn’t for nothing. Sure, I whiff or barely nick it sometimes, but when I connect well, the ball stabs into the net above the machine with a solid feel.

—Clang, Crack.

“…This might actually be kinda fun.”

Watching the ball soar with a crisp sound, I can feel my spirits lifting higher and higher.

I used to see salarymen swinging bats after work and wonder, What’s so fun about that? But now I get it—every once in a while, it’s a solid stress reliever.

Plus, I feel like I’ve shown Umi a decent side of myself.

Even if I’m still only hitting slower pitches.

“Maki, good work! Here, fist bump.”

“Thanks. It’s all ’cause of your advice, Umi.”

“You’re welcome. Oh, you’re sweating. I’ll wipe it for you—come closer.”

“No, I’ve got a handkerchief—I can do it myself.”

“I want to do it.”

“…Okay. Please, go ahead.”

“Very well.”

Maybe Umi’s thrilled to see my progress with her own eyes—she’s doting on me even more than usual.

It’s a weekday, so the place isn’t too crowded, but getting too lovey-dovey in the middle of regular hours might draw some awkward stares or comments.

For now… looks like no one’s around, so I breathe a sigh of relief.

“Maki, what’s next? You look a little tired—wanna take a break?”

“Nah, I’m moving well right now, so I’d like to keep going. Plus, the next one’s the real deal.”

“Hmm. Well, even if it’s softball, the perceived speed’s still pretty fast. Alright, let’s ride this momentum and go for 120 kph!”

With that, we shift over to the faster-pitch corner. This one offers 120 kph to 140 kph fastballs and even curveballs—seems popular with folks who regularly play baseball.

It’s full, so we line up to wait our turn.

“Even just watching from out here, these speeds are as wild as ever… Umi, how do you even hit a 120 kph pitch?”

“Hmm… Like I said earlier, it’s about watching the ball closely, but it mostly comes down to timing, right? You kinda guess the pitcher’s form or the speed they’ll throw at. Since the ball’s fast, you can’t just think, Oh, I’ll swing faster.”

“Got it—timing, huh.”

“Yup, timing. Not just for batting—for everything, really.”

As she says that, Umi sidles right up to me. I just went with my gut back then, but getting this close with Umi—maybe it’s because the timing worked out so well.

…Whether that perfect fit turned us into a cheesy couple, I’m not sure.

Whoops, veered off-topic there—back to the main point.

Wanting to study someone else’s swing, I glance toward a cage where the sharpest cracks are ringing out. It’s one over from where we’re lined up—while others miss here and there, this person’s consistently blasting balls near the “home run” board.

“Hah! Yah! Take that!”

The shouts and form are a bit quirky, but the basics are rock-solid, and the swing’s got real power.

Impressed by someone with natural talent, I look closer—and realize it’s an incredibly familiar back.

The safety net and helmet threw me off at first, but with each swing, long golden hair spills out from under the helmet, swaying softly—no mistaking it.

“Phew… Haah, tried it on a whim, but that was super fun… Oh!”

“! Yuu!”

“Amami-san?”

“Heya, Umi—and Maki-kun too! Hehe, due to some circumstances, I ended up here after all.”

Just as the person ahead of us finishes, we yield our spot to the next in line to sort things out and head over to Amami-san, who’s giving an awkward smile.

“Yuu, why are you here? What about basketball practice?”

“Yeah, that was the plan, but the practice spot changed due to some stuff. You know how this arcade has a basketball court and futsal field upstairs? So we figured we’d practice there while having a little fun.”

“So those two are here with you?”

“Yup! They’re off somewhere right now, though… Oh, speak of the devil—Hey, Sanae-chan, Manaka-chan!”

“…Nitori-san and Houjou-san?”

Turning toward where Amami-san’s waving, I spot two girls in the distinctive white blazers of Tachibana Girls’ Academy.

They look surprised to see me and Umi, but unlike before, there’s no hesitation—just smiles.

“No way, Yuu-chan, you didn’t tell them we were here too? If I’d known, I’d have prepped my heart a bit more.”

“Sanae, what’s that supposed to mean?”

“Oh, c’mon, it’s a joke. Umi-chan, don’t make that face.”

“Maehara-san, hey~ Long time no see~”

“Oh, h-hey, Houjou-san. Been a while.”

It’s been maybe two or three weeks since Umi’s birthday party—the last time we met. Both have shorter hair now, but their faces are unmistakable: Nitori-san with her striking round eyes, and Houjou-san with those gentle droopy eyes matching her soft way of talking.

I wondered why they’re with Amami-san, but one glance at their big sports bags makes it obvious.

“Wait, Amami-san’s practice partners—are they Nitori-san and Houjou-san?”

“Yes, that’s right. Manaka and I have been in the basketball club since middle school, so Yuu asked us to coach her when we’ve got time. Of course, Umi-chan too.”

“…Oh, I see.”

So the “connections” Umi mentioned were Nitori-san and the others.

Tachibana Girls’ basketball team is pretty well-known locally as a powerhouse, so they’re perfect for getting pointers from.

“Hey, since we’re all here, why don’t we practice together today? It’s less hassle for us as coaches too. Oh, but that might ruin your date, huh? Right, Manaka?”

“Yeah~ I’m feeling some silent pressure from Umi-chan over there~”

“N-No, it’s not like that… Besides, today’s about practice anyway.”

Sounding a bit like me from earlier, Umi secretly squeezes my hand tighter.

She can’t turn down the offer from two busy powerhouse players sparing time to help, but naturally, she also wants to spend time alone with me—that’s probably where she’s at.

I’m on Umi’s side no matter what, so I could refuse and keep practicing solo with her.

“Okay, got it. If you two say so, maybe I’ll join in too. It’s not what we planned, but it means more time with you both watching me.”

“Umi, you sure?”

“Well, yeah. Plus, I don’t want just Maki showing off—I wanna prove I’m working hard too.”

“Yay! Then it’s settled!”

With Umi’s approval, Amami-san claps her hands loudly, beaming.

They’ve stuck to separate practice since they’ll be rivals in the class match, but for Amami-san, the urge to do it with everyone probably outweighs that.

“Geez, what a handful.”

Umi sighs like she’s exasperated, but her gaze on Amami-san is soft, her expression calm.

She totally wanted this too… What a stubbornly dishonest girlfriend.

With the four old friends together, I cut my practice short for now, and we head up the escalator to the other floor.

This one’s free of amusement stuff like prize games or purikura—just a space for physical activity. There’s billiards, ping-pong, and dart machines you’d see in tournaments, but the main draws are the basketball and futsal courts from earlier.

We pay for five, stepping into the net-enclosed court. It’s a half-court, but more than spacious enough for five. Balls and shoes are free to use, and the price is reasonable—student-friendly.

“After stretching and warm-ups, let’s do shooting practice today. Once that’s done, we’ll split by coach and play a two-on-two mini-game.”

“? Coaches—you mean Nitori-san and Houjou-san each take one?”

“Basically, yeah. I, Nitori, handle Yuu-chan, and Manaka takes Umi-chan. It’s more efficient that way.”

“Me and Sanae are about the same skill-wise, so there’s not much difference~”

With that, practice kicks off, splitting into pairs.

I pitch in as ball boy and passer, helping both groups.

“Umi-chan, Yuu-chan, take turns shooting first. Don’t worry about form yet—just go for it.”

At Nitori-san’s whistle—pulled from who-knows-where—Umi and Amami-san’s practice begins.

Starting with shots, their forms are pretty different.

Umi holds the ball firmly with both hands—a classic women’s basketball shot.

Amami-san, though, just rests her left hand lightly—a one-handed type.

Neither’s right or wrong. If it goes in, pick whatever’s comfy.

“Umi-chan, you’re putting too much arm into it~ Relax your shoulders and focus on your lower body~”

“Ugh, yeah… Sorry, Manaka.”

“Yuu-chan, I get the enthusiasm, but you’re mimicking pros too much. It’s fine since you’re scoring now, but bad habits’ll bite you later.”

“Roger that, Coach Sanae!”

Watching from a bit away, this feels like legit practice. The coaches—Nitori-san and Houjou-san—were hesitant with Umi and Amami-san until now, but they’re laying into them hard.

About ten minutes into hands-on, one-on-one coaching, both Umi and Amami-san—maybe thanks to some prior experience—start cleaning up their shooting posture, and their success rate climbs steadily.

“Alright, good. Don’t forget that feel. Now that we’ve covered the basics, how about a shoot-off between you two?”

““……!””

The moment Nitori-san says “shoot-off,” a sharp tension flickers between Umi and Amami-san, if only for a split second.

…The real deal’s still ahead, but aren’t they too aware of each other already?

“Alternate shots from the free-throw line. Miss, and it’s ten push-ups on the spot. Do ten each—loser with fewer goals does an extra fifty push-ups… But, uh, Sanae~, are we really doing this~? Isn’t it a bit harsh for them?”

“Really? We always did double that, and they’ll be fine, right? Yuu-chan, Umi-chan—what do you say? Up for it?”

““Yes.””

Competitive besties like them—say it like that, and of course this happens.

Nitori-san egging them on on purpose, and Houjou-san pretending to worry but actually fanning the flames—figures, since they’ve known them forever.

Me butting in would just ruin the vibe, so I’ll quietly watch how it plays out.

“Ehehe.”

“Hehe.”

They’re smiling outwardly, but… it’s kinda scary.

A coin toss puts Amami-san up first for the shoot-off.

“Alright, I’ll sink the first one and put some pressure on Umi~”

“Trying to psych me out already? Just shoot—no need for that. We don’t have tons of court time left.”

“Oka~y… Here I go.”

With a small breath and a serious gaze locked on the rim, Amami-san releases her shot.

A clean, upright form—hard to believe she’s an amateur.

The ball arcs gently, slipping through the net’s center with a satisfying swish, no rim contact.

“Yuu-chan, nice shot!”

“Naisu~”

“Ehehe, thanks~ Okay, Umi’s turn!”

“I know already.”

Taking the ball from Amami-san, Umi glances my way.

She doesn’t seem nervous, but her face looks a tad stiff—maybe I should say something.

“Uh… Umi, you got this.”

“Yeah, thanks… So why are you three staring at us and smirking like that?”

“““No reason~”””

“Geez, seriously…”

Blushing under the trio’s warm gazes, Umi shoots with the form she was taught… It looks good, but it bounces off the rim’s inside and drops out—bad luck.

“Ah!”

“Umi-chan missed. Alright, ten push-ups, as promised.”

“Muu… I thought it was close too.”

Umi starts her push-ups on the spot, looking frustrated.

Nine shots left, but after Amami-san’s perfect opener, she can’t afford more misses. Too many, and arm fatigue from push-ups could tank her accuracy.

Umi’s rough start smooths out as she regains her rhythm, sinking shots steadily.

The more she shoots, the steadier she gets—now it’s just waiting for Amami-san to slip. But over there? Still flawless.

“—Yes! Seven in a row!”

“Ooh, nice one, Yuu-chan. That talent’s shining as always.”

“Monster~”

“C’mon, you two, that’s too much. I’m just in good form today, that’s all.”

Amami-san plays it modest, but her shooting alone could pass for a seasoned player’s.

Her art at last year’s culture fest blew me away too—she’s seriously good at everything. If she were ace at studies, she’d be perfect, but that’s a total wash, which might oddly be part of her charm.

Still, my eyes naturally drift to my girlfriend, giving her all in everything she does.

“Umi, looking good. Nail the rest and turn the pressure back on Amami-san.”

“Yeah. That Yuu’s on a roll now, but one little slip could throw her off. Hey, Sanae, what if we tie?”

“You’ve both got that ‘I wanna settle this’ look. Sorry, though—it’s a draw. Time limit’s up, and we can’t extend.”

“Guess it’s postponed to the real thing~ Oh, ties mean thirty push-ups each~”

“…Isn’t that kinda unfair?”

No win, no loss—so split the penalty? Why it’s ten extra push-ups is beyond me.

Eight and nine go down easy for both, leaving one shot each.

The gap’s still one goal, Amami-san ahead.

“Alright, I’ll sink ’em all and shove fifty push-ups on Umi!”

“Huh? We’re besties, so you’ll do thirty with me, right? Or are you planning to ditch me solo?”

“T-That kind of mind game… Wait, you’ve got Maki-kun, so you’re fine! He’d stick with you for thirty, fifty, even a hundred, right? Right, Maki-kun? You’re her boyfriend, so that’s how it is, yeah?”

“Please don’t drag me into this, for real…”

I was just here to tag along for practice—when did I get roped into the showdown?

My arms are still sore from overdoing it at batting earlier… Well, I won’t leave Umi hanging, so I’d join her.

Amami-san flinches a bit at Umi’s light jab—let’s see how this goes.

“—!”

The ball leaves Amami-san’s hands, drifting slowly toward the goal.

I think I saw her lips twitch into a “Yes”—she’s probably feeling confident.

If this goes in, Amami-san wins without waiting for Umi’s last shot—but then…

—Thwack.

““““—Huh?””””

Something totally unexpected happens, and all four of us freeze in shock at once.

Amami-san’s shot—looking like a sure thing—gets knocked off course by another ball flying in from somewhere else.

Naturally, it misses, and both balls bounce hard across the court, rolling toward the net as they lose steam.

“Hey, who was that? We’re still practicing here—don’t just butt in…”

Nitori-san reacts first. I was so focused on the ball that it took me a second, but apparently someone outside our group chucked a ball at us out of nowhere.

Glancing at the entrance, there’s a girl in our high school uniform.

“…Oh, my bad. I was waiting my turn earlier, but you guys were doing such lame stuff, I couldn’t help my bad habit.”

Saying that without a hint of remorse is a tanned girl who stands out among a small group of others—Arae Nagisa, someone me and Amami-san have had some recent beef with.

“Arae-san? Uh, wait, are you here for self-practice too?”

“Self-practice? No way. Some friends wanted to move around, so I’m just tagging along. What, is there a rule saying I can’t hit the arcade after school?”

As usual, her hostility toward Amami-san is off the charts.

Her friends—or so they seem—try to gently hold her back, but no one in the group seems able to really rein in their leader.

“Not exactly… But even if I’m here, you can’t just interrupt practice like that, okay? It’d be one thing if it were just me, but we’ve got girls from another school here today.”

“Yuu-chan’s right. I don’t know who you are, but this is a public space—please follow basic manners, or it’s a problem.”

“Huh? Oh, that uniform and bag… Tachibana Girls’, huh. Still playing the goody-two-shoes, I see.”

Does she hate anyone tied to Amami-san? Arae-san glares at Nitori-san, who backed her up, just the same.

“You two—women’s basketball, right? Must be tough. A powerhouse school with hard practices, and now you’re stuck coaching these losers. If it’s a hassle, you should just say it’s a hassle.”

“!”

The instant Arae-san says that, one of Umi’s eyelids twitches.

I rarely see it, but that’s a tic she gets when she’s mad.

“Losers? Umi-chan and Yuu-chan are really good—they’re not losers. Take it back.”

“Yeah~ And this has nothing to do with you anyway~”

Nitori-san and Houjou-san counter calmly, but with their friends trashed like that, their tones naturally sharpen.

Same goes for me.

I don’t wanna start something here, but… this I’ve gotta say.

“…Arae-san, can I have a sec?”

“Huh? Who are you—Amami’s boyfriend? If you’re just trying to look cool, back off.”

Her snappy tone grates, but getting mad at every little thing just plays into her game.

I cool my head and need to firmly point out where she’s wrong.

“No. I’m Maehara, from your class. Anyway, Arae-san, no matter how you spin it, you’re in the wrong here. You were waiting, sure, but our time’s not up yet, so you’ve got no right to get annoyed. And whether we suck or not? That’s none of your business either.”

“……”

Arae-san’s sharp glare stabs into me, but I can’t back down over something like that.

This girl’s not just dissing Amami-san—she’s badmouthing her friends Nitori-san and Houjou-san, and even Umi indirectly.

As a friend and a boyfriend, I can’t let that slide.

“Anyway, apologize for what you did. I don’t know what you’ve got against Amami-san, but you’re the one who interrupted us.”

“…It’s not like I only hate her or anything.”

“Huh?”

“Ugh, fine, fine. Sorry for interrupting. My bad, won’t happen again… There, happy now?”

“T-That half-hearted tone…”

Her flat, emotionless apology—just rattling off words—leaves even me dumbfounded.

Pointing that out won’t make her reflect, though—not the way she is now.

Keeping this up feels pointless, but us backing off here would feel like letting her off the hook, which I can’t stomach.

“—Maki-kun, it’s fine now. Thanks for sticking up for us.”

“Amami-san, you sure?”

“Yeah. Fighting here won’t get us anywhere… Plus, our court time’s up. We’d just bother the staff.”

If this were a school classroom, it’d be different, but this is a public space used by other schools and regular folks.

If we got heated and it turned into a real fight… it’d be bad for Nitori-san and Houjou-san, who’re helping us out of kindness.

Amami-san probably wants to avoid that at all costs.

…So, the compromise is—

“Uh, Arae-san. Our time’s up, so we’ll clear out, but we’re not letting this slide or anything.”

Meaning, we’re carrying this over—even across days.

Whether Arae-san, with her stubborn attitude, will genuinely apologize is anyone’s guess… but we’ve gotta at least do this much to feel settled.

“Sorry, I kinda decided that on my own… Everyone cool with that?”

“Yeah. Totally fine with me.”

“If Yuu-chan’s okay, I am too.”

“Me too~”

Amami-san, Nitori-san, and Houjou-san are on board.

“……”

“Uh, Umi?”

“…Mm.”

Umi seems a bit off, but with everyone’s okay, let’s call it a day here.

I wanna step away and cool off too.

“Then, we’re outta here.”

“S-See ya, Arae-san. Tomorrow at school, okay?”

“…Just get lost already.”

Giving a sidelong glance at Arae-san, who’s turned away completely, we start cleaning up the equipment.

I’d been on the sidelines ’til now, but with this, I’ve officially become Arae-san’s enemy too.

Did I stick my nose in again? Same old pushover me—but right now, this was all I could think to do.

…If I were smoother, could I have handled it better?

Well, no point dwelling on it now.

“—Alright, the pests are gone. Time to chill and mess around.”

With a softer tone than before, Arae-san chats with her friends as we—five strong—head out of the court. But then—

“…Lame.”

Clear as day, Umi says it, aimed straight at Arae-san.

Her single word—after holding back ’til now—freezes me and the other three.

It was loud enough to hear, so of course, Arae-san’s back twitches in response.

“…Huh? What’d you just say to me?”

“I said it. Got a problem?”

“…Heh. Thought you were all spineless, but looks like one’s got some guts.”

Tossing the ball she was holding to a nearby friend, Arae-san turns toward us, eyes sharp.

“Umi… I get how you feel, but hold it together here.”

“It’s fine. I’m not picking a fight or anything—not like that childish jerk over there.”

“You might not, but she’s looking pretty ticked off…”

Arae-san’s group clearly doesn’t want this to blow up either, trying to calm her down.

It’s obvious these two don’t mesh—I’d been doing my best to keep them from clashing, but Umi finally hit her limit at the very end.

“Arae Nagisa, right? My bestie might be soft, but I’ll never accept someone like you. A high schooler throwing tantrums like a kid, pissing off my precious friends—and even your own crew over there. Don’t you ever feel even a little ashamed of yourself?”

“Still preaching at this point? Who the hell are you, anyway? You’re in our uniform, though.”

“Second-year, Class 11, Asanagi Umi. Yuu’s been my best friend since elementary.”

“…Another goody-goody, huh. You’re all so damn annoying.”

No sign of fists flying with her friends holding her back, but the air’s still one spark from exploding.

A quick look around shows folks near the entrance starting to notice us.

If staff spot this, it’ll get even messier—right then, someone in what looks like the facility’s uniform walks over.

“—Uh, excuse me, customers. It’s getting a bit loud—what’s going on?”

“Oh, sorry. Just a little mix-up over court time… Wait, huh?”

“Hm? Oh, whoa.”

Why here, of all places? we both wanna say—but the staff who approached is, shockingly,

“Maki, huh.”

“Emi-senpai.”

The staff rushing over with a worried look? None other than Emi-senpai, my senior from my part-time job.

Why’s she working here…? I wanna ask, but now’s not the time.

“So, what’s up? It’s kinda… intense over here.”

“Well, uh…”

I fill her in quick, and sharp as ever, Emi-senpai steps right between Umi and Arae-san.

“Customers, if there’s trouble, I’ll hear you out, but—”

“…Nah, nothing. I just misread the time. It’s sorted now.”

“Got it. And you, uh… not Umi-chan, but the other customer?”

“Oh, uh… Yeah, it’s fine. Sorry for the commotion.”

Maybe a grown-up third party cooled their heads—both rein in their open hostility, looking sheepish.

I was sweating bullets for a sec, but that’s Emi-senpai for you.

“…I’m outta here.”

“? Customer, you sure? You just paid not long ago…”

“We paid, so what we do with it’s up to us, right? …Guys, this place is pissing me off—let’s bounce.”

Her fire fizzling out, Arae-san reverts to her usual sulky scowl, dragging her friends out of the floor.

…Leaving the balls and gear scattered.

“Hey, Arae-san, the cleanup—”

“It’s fine, don’t worry. I’ll handle it. I’m staff here, after all.”

“Sorry for all this… By the way, Senpai, why’re you here? What about our shop?”

“Double-duty, my friend—dou-ble-du-ty. Planning a summer trip abroad with friends, so I’m saving up. The shop alone wasn’t cutting it.”

“Oh, that makes sense…”

I’d worried she’d quit after a fight with the manager, but that’s a relief to hear.

Like she just proved, Emi-senpai’s a rock when she’s on the clock (only on the clock, mind you).

I’m getting used to the job bit by bit, but I’d still be sunk without her help.

“Well, the annoying customers are gone, so I’ll get back to work. I’m at the medal loan counter—if anything comes up, holler right away.”

“Sorry, Senpai. You’re busy, and we dumped extra trouble on you.”

“Don’t sweat it. Anyone else, maybe, but you’re all my precious, adorable kouhai. Oh, you two over there—Umi-chan’s friends? Wanna swap contacts while we’re at it?”

“Huh? Oh, sure—if you’re okay with us—”

Just like that, Emi-senpai expands her circle. She’s already buddies with Umi and Amami-san—did they exchange contacts at some point?

Still just a third-year uni student… If I rack up experience, could I be like her someday?

“Linger too long, and I’ll get chewed out by my boss, so I’m off for real this time. You all came all this way—chill out and enjoy some more!”

“Yes, thank you!”

After parting with Emi-senpai, we leave the sports floor and head back down to the amusement one.

After that mess, I’m not super in the mood to play… but forcing a mood shift might be the move.

“Umi, since we’re here, let’s hang out a bit.”

“…Yeah. What about you guys, Yuu?”

“Then I’ll join! Umi’s been glued to Maki-kun lately and hasn’t hung out with me, so chances to hit places like this have dried up. Sanae-chan, Manaka-chan?”

“Sure. Told my folks I’d be late from club practice anyway.”

“Well, this counts as practice in a way~”

They nod happily, so we decide to stick around a little longer.

Medal games, prizes, racing, rhythm games—I wasn’t into it at first, but games are fun. Bit by bit, my mood lifts.

“Ahh! Umi, that item’s cheating! No way— I just hit first place, so ban that! It’s a banned card!”

“Oh~? I can’t hear you~ Here it goes!”

“Gah!? Umi, you’re so mean~!”

“It’s a competition, after all~”

Seeing Umi and Amami-san having a blast is the best part. Half a year ago, when their bond hit a rough patch, this level of carefree laughter was unthinkable.

…Before I became Umi’s “friend,” this was probably a common sight.

“Maehara-san? Thinking about something?”

“Nitori-san… Yeah, a bunch of stuff.”

Watching Umi and Amami-san race from behind, Nitori-san strikes up a chat.

A past mistake with Umi distanced her from them, but she (and Houjou-san) are still “best friends” in their own right.

“Like, sometimes I wonder… Maybe I’ve done something bad to Umi and Amami-san.”

“Hmm. Like you’ve stolen their time together or something?”

“Yeah… You nailed it.”

“Haha… Well, I’ve had similar thoughts myself, so I get it.”

“…Oh, right, you have.”

Thinking about it, they’d been “best friends” with Umi forever—until Amami-san swooped in and took her away.

Opposite positions, but similar situations.

“Honestly, I was jealous of Yuu-chan at first. Umi-chan was ours forever, and then she just zoomed past us… But we fell for Yuu-chan’s charm quick enough and ended up in that mess… Sorry, Maehara-san. Our fault.”

“Let’s drop that topic. Umi’s forgiven you already.”

She’s practically bowing like she’s about to grovel—hurting Umi with a lie must still weigh on her heavy.

They’ve paid their dues for it, though.

“…Okay, back to your point. I get why you’d feel that way, Maehara-san. Those two look so happy together—sometimes even we hesitate to jump in.”

“You think so too, Nitori-san?”

“Of course. We’re the ones who lost Umi-chan, so we’re the flip side of you… Maehara-san, no offense, but you’ve got it good, huh?”

“T-Thanks…”

Mapping this to their old dynamic: [Old Amami-san = Me], [Old Nitori-san & Co. = Amami-san]. Nitori-san’s got a point.

Still, chatting like this—Nitori-san’s got some quiet intensity.

…All the girls around me get scary when mad—no, they’re all awesome for having strong convictions.

“Hehe, kidding. Anyway, those two have always been like that, but Manaka and I enjoyed it too. Watching Umi-chan and Yuu-chan makes us happy, gives us energy… I bet Yuu-chan feels the same watching you and Umi-chan.”

“Amami-san, watching us…”

“Yeah. A friend’s happiness is your own, right? Sure, it’s lonely when someone you’ve been tight with drifts away… but their happiness matters more now. At Umi-chan’s birthday party, I glanced at Yuu-chan—she had this super kind smile.”

Back then, I was too caught up in Umi’s gift to notice anyone else.

I thought Amami-san teasing us was partly jealousy over me hogging Umi—but maybe not.

“…So? Helped at all?”

“Yeah, for now, I guess.”

“Glad to hear it.”

Finishing our talk, Nitori-san and I turn back to the racing screen.

“Aww, I lost~! Umi, one more—just one more round~!”

“Fine… But just one, ’cause it’s not fair to the others, okay?”

“Yay! Ehehe, I love you, Umi!”

“H-Hey! Don’t hug me right before the game starts… Geez.”

Watching my “girlfriend” and her “friend” banter as usual, I can’t help but smile.

A friend’s happiness is your own.

…That’s a good thing, I think.

After enjoying games ’til our wallets and moods lightened, we lined up at a certain machine for the day’s finale.

Four girls and one guy, at a purikura booth.

Amami-san suggested snapping a group shot as a memento of today’s five-person hangout.

“Oh, look, the people ahead are done—let’s go in! C’mon, Maki-kun too—no holding back!”

“Uh… Maybe I’ll wait outside, and you four can catch up—”

“Maki, come on.”

“…Yes, ma’am.”

Caught by Umi as I tried to escape—game over.

I kinda knew this’d happen once I tagged along with four girls… Am I the only one feeling wildly out of place?

“Wow, so this is how they are now. It’s been ages since I last did purikura—pretty high-tech stuff.”

“Hey, can we pick stuff out~?”

“Yeah! Make it something cool!”

“Well, with Yuu, anything’d turn out cool anyway.”

Total purikura newbie here, so I just go with the four’s chaotic choices.

Following the voice prompts, we pick a frame and start shooting.

Since the four of them are the stars here, I try sliding to the edge of the frame—but why am I suddenly shoved into the center of the group?

“Uh… Ladies, may I request an explanation?”

“’Cause it’s way funnier this way, right? Right, everyone?”

“““Yup!”””

Amami-san’s idea gets a unanimous vote—four to one. Majority rules, so I end up between Umi and Amami-san, with Nitori-san and Houjou-san on either side.

—3, 2, 1.

Click—and a blatant harem pic pops up on the screen, ripe for misunderstandings.

Like they planned it, the ex-Tachibana Girls’ quartet points at my tense face, snickering.

How’d it come to this?

“Hehe, everyone looks super cute! Latest machine for the win.”

“Yuu, wanna tweak it a bit? Whiten Maki’s skin, make his eyes all big and girly?”

“Why’s it just me…?”

“Hehe, that’d be fun… but let’s keep it as-is this time. Wanna save it as a memory.”

“…Fine. Then just toss in today’s date and names—keep it simple.”

They scribble our names over the photo with the built-in pen.

Four girls plus me, snug in a cute frame.

Pretty basic for a purikura loaded with fun edits, but this way, I won’t cringe looking back later.

Another new memory for me.

“Mmm~ Today was a lot, but hanging with everyone was so fun~! Sanae-chan, Manaka-chan, thanks for today!”

“No prob. It’s been forever since we four hung out—felt good.”

“Me too~ Busy with club and lessons, but I’d love to do this again~”

“See? Umi, let’s hang like this again sometime?”

“…Yeah.”

The four drifted apart once, but the memories and bonds they built don’t just vanish.

Sure, mistakes happened.

But if there’s even a slim chance to fix things—and they want it—

Seeing Umi smile quietly at the finished sticker, I feel again that suggesting they reconcile wasn’t a mistake.

After thanking Emi-senpai again, we leave the arcade and head our separate ways.

Practice, a showdown, a little drama, and some uncharacteristically青春 (youthful) moments thrown in.

Exhausted from it all, but I can’t forget it’s still a weekday.

A bit left ’til the weekend—I’ve gotta push through.

“Alright, Manaka and I are off. Yuu-chan, Umi-chan, see ya!”

“Maehara-san, later~”

“Yeah. See you.”

We’ll see Nitori-san and them soon for more practice.

Today’s session was short due to time, but next time’s supposedly intense—I need to brace myself. On the train home, they said we’d join their usual self-practice routine.

…Praying my heart doesn’t explode mid-session.

“Let’s head out too. Umi, wanna walk you home?”

“Thanks. If you’re offering, I’ll take you up on it.”

Back to our usual crew, no need for formalities—Umi clings to my arm like she’s spoiling herself. Past evening, it’s already dim out. Perfect time to sneak some couple time.

“Oh my, guess I’ll head out first then. Me being noisy in the middle’d distract you two.”

“Making weird considerations again… It’s late—join us back—”

“Nope. Just told Mom, and Dad’s car’s nearby—she said to get picked up.”

“Uncle? Hey, if it’s cool, can I say hi? Didn’t get to at the birthday party either.”

“To Dad? Sure. What about you, Maki-kun?”

“Uh…”

I’ll kill time nearby and you call me after…—no way I can say that with the “pressure” from my cute girlfriend next to me.

Amami-san’s dad. First time meeting him—might be good to know what he’s like.

“…Me too, then.”

“Got it. Let’s wait a bit longer, the three of us.”

Five minutes by the station entrance, and a car pulls up beside us.

The passenger window rolls down, revealing a serious-looking guy with silver-framed glasses in the driver’s seat.

“Dad, I’m back! And thanks for working hard.”

“Welcome home, Yuu. Got a sudden call from your mom—thought something was up.”

“Ehehe, got caught up having fun and ran late.”

“Sorry, Uncle. We meant to head back earlier… Oh, long time no see.”

“Umi-chan, been a while. Wanted to celebrate your birthday in person, but I had an unavoidable business trip… And that boy there—could he be—”

“Oh, yes. I’m Maehara Maki. Amami-sa… Yuu-san’s always helping me out—”

“No need to be so stiff. I’ve heard plenty about you from my wife and daughter—wanted to meet you properly myself. I’m the one who should say thanks for always looking after my Yuu. I’m Hayato Amami, her dad.”

Despite the sudden greeting, Hayato-san listens calmly, not a trace of annoyance.

I braced for a scolding over keeping his precious daughter out late, but like Umi’s dad Daichi-san, Hayato-san’s another kind adult I’m lucky to know.

“Heading home? Want a lift? Maehara-kun, same direction, right?”

“Yes, but we’re good walking. It’s not far, and, uh, I promised Umi we’d go back together. Right, Umi?”

“…Mm.”

“Oh… I see. Fair enough then.”

Seeing me and Umi’s fingers firmly laced, Hayato-san backs off easily.

No prying into our relationship, sharp instincts—definitely Amami-san’s dad.

Next to him, his daughter giggles “Hehe~” at us—she could learn a thing or two.

“Then we’re off. Yuu, buckle up.”

“Umi, Maki-kun, bye-bye! See you tomorrow at school!”

“Yuu, don’t oversleep and hassle Uncle and Aunt, okay?”

“Amami-san, see you tomorrow.”

Waving back at Amami-san practically leaning out the window, we’re finally alone.

Hanging with Amami-san, Nitori-san, and Houjou-san was fun and good for me personally, but…

…Selfishly, I kinda wanted just a bit more time alone with Umi, flirting around.

“Umi, let’s go.”

“Yeah.”

Shoulder to shoulder, we start down the streetlamp-lit path at a slow pace.

Even this time of year, nights get chilly.

Gotta stick close to keep warm and avoid catching colds.

“Maki, good work today. Honest talk—pretty rough, huh?”

“Yeah. Tried not to show it, but the purikura part was my limit.”

Kept a calm face for Amami-san and them, not wanting to worry them, but after the Arae-san fiasco, my day was mentally done.

Playing’s one thing, but with that trouble sandwiched in, I’m twice as wiped—probably as bad as after my first shift at work.

“Gotcha. You did great, Maki.”

“Yeah, I worked hard. Umi, pamper me.”

“Sure. There, there—good job. You were cool, Maki.”

I’d love to dive into Umi’s arms and soak up all the affection, but we’re still en route, so I settle for head pats.

“…Hey, Maki.”

“Hm?”

“Sorry. Back then, I did something pretty unlike me, huh.”

“You mean with Arae-san?”

“……”

Umi nods with a small kokuri.

Like she said, it was definitely unexpected for her to say something like that at that moment.

I’d heard about Arae-san from both me and Amami-san, so Umi must’ve known how she’d react too.

And knowing that, Umi did it on purpose.

“But after everything she said, I just couldn’t stay quiet. If it was just about me, maybe I could’ve let it slide, but when she turned it on everyone else… Yuu’s trying so hard to talk it out patiently, but I can’t do that. I don’t think I can ever get along with her. I don’t want to say this, but… it’s like, physiologically, I can’t stand her.”

There it is—clear, outright rejection. For Umi, who’s always managed to get along with everyone on the surface, saying this is seriously rare.

In other words, she’s decided to treat her that way at school too.

Since getting close to Umi—no, probably even before that—I’d never heard her badmouth anyone.

“! …Oh, shoot, sorry. I’m doing it again—something unlike me.”

“Really? I actually feel relieved seeing the usual Umi.”

“Huh?”

But to me, it’s not that surprising.

“I mean, you’re not some perfect girl, right, Umi? You hide it at school, but deep down, you’re selfish, jealous, and sometimes your mouth gets sharp. Oh, and you’re quick to throw hands too. You’re just a normal girl.”

“Is that really normal? Also, me throwing hands is your fault, Maki—not mine.”

“Add ‘quick to blame others’ to the list too.”

“…Meanie.”

With that, Umi butts her head into my chest, nuzzling in like she’s spoiled.

She doesn’t show this side to anyone but me, but Asanagi Umi isn’t always prim and proper—she’s got the messy human parts everyone has.

Like today, if someone pisses her off, she’ll get mad, and if she can’t hold it in, she’ll pick a fight. Even badmouthing someone behind their back—she’ll do it.

“Anyway, what I’m trying to say is, you’re never ‘unlike yourself,’ Umi. The honor-student-mode Umi at school is ‘you,’ and whining to me like this, feeling bad about being ‘unlike yourself’—it’s all totally Umi.”

“So, basically, everything I do is ‘me,’ is that it?”

“Yeah, pretty much.”

That’s just how I see it—maybe everyone else would call it ‘unlike her.’

The ‘perfect Asanagi Umi’ is a mask she wears to hide her true self, and this side she shows me is the real deal.

But then, where’d that mask come from in the first place?

A mask to hide her inner self isn’t something she picked up from outside—it grew from her own awareness that she shouldn’t show her messy side to everyone. So that mask is a key piece of who Umi is too… at least, that’s what I think.

That’s why I care about her so much, all of it included.

…Saying stuff like this out loud is way too embarrassing, though.

“Umi, lend me your ear.”

“? Sure.”

“—”

I pull her into a tight hug and whisper secretly into her ear, just for her to hear.

Realizing I just said something ridiculously cheesy and straight-up, my cheeks heat up fast, and I squeeze her tighter to hide it.

In response, Umi wraps her arms around my back, pressing even closer.

“Geez, you’re such an idiot, Maki. Lately, you’ve been a bit much… You like me too much.”

“W-Well, that’s fine, isn’t it? We’re dating.”

“Sure, but you’re affirming all of me way too much. If you keep this up, I’ll just turn into a total mess.”

“Wouldn’t that be fine? Then we’d balance each other out—I’d be all for it.”

“…You’re really an idiot.”

The strength in Umi’s arms fades, and instead, she leans her whole weight into me, like she’s handing everything over.

“Then… if you’re gonna say that much, you’d better keep supporting me forever, okay? I don’t think I can stand on my own without you anymore, Maki.”

“Of course. It’s you and me, together forever.”

“Then, piggyback.”

“Wait, when did this turn into physically supporting you?”

“What~? You just said you’d support me~! Liar, idiot Maki!”

“No, I meant that in a mental sense…”

Getting dragged around by Umi’s selfishness is kinda tough, but even that feels precious to me, so what can I do?

On the quiet country road empty of people at night, only our giggling voices echoed on and on.

After yesterday’s mess, with Amami-san’s team vibe getting worse and Umi’s team pushing harder than ever thanks to my support, the gap between them was about to become painfully clear the very next day.

Fifth period PE, right after lunch break.

As planned, until the class match, regular lessons are swapped for practice in our chosen events.

I’m doing softball, Umi’s on basketball. Normally, that’d mean the field for me and the gym for her, but…

“…The rain’s not letting up, huh.”

I mutter that while staring out the classroom window at the dreary sky pouring intermittent rain.

It’s that fickle season, and unlike yesterday, it’s been cold and rainy since morning.

The PE committee classmate officially told us both guys and girls are gathering in the gym today.

(Asanagi) Maki, it’s been a while since we’re together, huh.

(Maehara) Yeah.

(Maehara) Though, practice is split by gender, so the most we can do is watch each other from afar.

(Asanagi) Just watching me is enough.

(Asanagi) Oh, if we end up in a practice match with Yuu’s team, you’ll cheer for me properly, right?

(Maehara) Don’t worry. I won’t shout it out, but I’ll be praying for you in my heart.

(Asanagi) Hehe, good.

(Asanagi) You promised to support me, didn’t you?

(Maehara) I did, but hearing it like that suddenly makes it sound kinda heavy.

(Asanagi) Kidding! Geez, if you take it that seriously, I’ll be the one in trouble!

Even so, maybe because yesterday stuck with her, Umi’s been like this all morning.

It’s proof my words meant something solid to her, and I’m happy she trusts me more for it… but after how good the vibe was yesterday, I definitely overdid the cool-guy act.

…Thinking back, it’s still embarrassing.

(Asanagi) Alright, I’ve gotta change, so I’m heading out first.

(Maehara) Sure. See you at the gym.

At this rate, she’ll probably put on a great show at practice. Umi being fired up naturally rubs off on the others, which means our class is shaping up to be a real threat.

As for Amami-san’s team, set to face Umi’s Class 11 crew…

“……”

“……”

Their vibe was the worst it’s ever been.

After yesterday’s clash, I figured Arae-san might say something to me about the ‘carryover’ apology call, but she hasn’t glared at me or Amami-san—just sitting quietly at her desk, looking bored.

Quiet, sure, but she’s totally ignoring us, so the tension’s still sketchy.

“Amami-san, we should head out soon too.”

“Oh, yeah. Gotta hurry, or the changing room’ll get packed.”

Prompted by other classmates, Amami-san leaves the room, but her eyes keep drifting to Arae-san with worry.

Come to think of it, what does Amami-san think about yesterday?

Since Umi and I jumped on Arae-san first, Amami-san stayed back, fretting over us—but that didn’t mean she was speaking for her own feelings.

Will she keep patiently trying to talk it out, or cut her losses here, keep distance, and stick to the bare minimum?

My loyalty’s with Umi, no question… but as a classmate and friend, I can’t help worrying about Amami-san too.

…I know it’s meddling where I shouldn’t.

I whip out my phone and fire off a message to someone.

(Maehara) Nitta-san, got a sec?

(Nina) Huh?

(Nina) A message from the class rep—rare! What’s up? Trying to hit on me?

(Maehara) No, it’s about what we talked about at lunch.

(Nina) Deny it with some panic at least! You’re no fun.

(Nina) So, what’s the deal?

(Nina) Too tricky for the group chat, right?

(Maehara) Yeah, pretty much.

(Maehara) I’ll tell Umi later, though.

(Nina) You two are as clingy as ever. So, what is it?

(Nina) I’ll hear you out—chalk it up as a favor owed.

(Maehara) Thanks.

So, I decide to ask Niita-san—the only one of us not tangled up in this mess—to back up Amami-san.

She’s got some connection with Arae-san and gets along evenly with most of the girls’ groups, so she’s gotta be able to help.

A favor owed means I’m a bit nervous about what she’ll ask for later, though.

For now, I’ll brace myself for treating her to a diner meal plus pizza delivery.

(Nina) Got it. For now, it’s wait-and-see, but if it gets dicey, I’ll step in casually.

(Nina) Pain in the butt, though.

(Maehara) Sorry.

(Maehara) I don’t have many people I can lean on for stuff like this.

(Nina) Figures. I don’t either, honestly.

(Maehara) Really? That’s surprising.

(Nina) Nah, not surprising—it’s normal. Totally normal.

(Nina) You’re the lucky one, Class Rep. Surrounded by good people.

(Maehara) I’m grateful for that.

(Nina) Sure you are.

(Nina) Whatever. Class is starting, so that’s that.

(Maehara) Yeah, thanks.

(Nina) Yep.

(Nina) Oh, one last thing—don’t do this kinda stuff too much from now on.

(Nina) Depends on the person, but a lot of girls don’t like it when their guy secretly chats with another girl. Even if you report it later, after-the-fact isn’t great.

(Maehara) Even with a reason?

(Nina) Yep, even then. A reason’s just you thinking it’s okay—doesn’t mean it is for Asanagi.

(Nina) Oops, said Asanagi.

(Nina) Sorry, cut that part.

(Maehara) No need to cut it… but yeah, you’re right.

(Maehara) I’ll be more careful.

(Nina) Hm~

It’s hard to tell over the phone, but this back-and-forth is basically the same as sneaking a private chat behind her back.

Maybe I’m overthinking it, but to keep Umi totally at ease, this is probably the right level of caution.

“…Guess I’ll shoot Umi a quick heads-up.”

I send Umi a message about asking Niita-san for help, then head to the gym after her.

Dating and friendships—

I thought I had it figured out, but there’s still so much I don’t get.

Switching from indoor shoes to gym sneakers, I step inside to find practice already underway, the court split in half for guys and girls.

Judging by the gear being set up with the teacher, looks like the guys are on volleyball, and the girls are doing basketball.

Beyond the net stretched across the gym’s center, the girls are shooting at their respective hoops.

Me… well, I’m not playing volleyball in the match, so I’ll stick to fetching balls.

During pre-practice stretching, I’m quietly loosening up my stiff joints and muscles in a corner when I catch some hushed chatter from the guys nearby.

…

I didn’t want the details and bolted quick, but it seems they were talking about Amami-san shooting hoops.

Something about her chest being impressive, or whatever.

Since we’re about to get moving hard, Amami-san’s ditched her tracksuit top, down to just her gym shirt.

A white shirt with the school crest embroidered in blue above her left chest, marking her as a second-year. Her undershirt peeks out from the collar gap, so it’s not like her underwear’s showing…

What’s so impressive? Well, watching her practice, it’s obvious fast.

“—Man, they’re bouncing, huh. Won’t say what, though.”

“…Are you talking to me?”

“Who else is around you?”

“…No one, but—”

“Oops, sorry if I offended you. If you’re free, wanna chat a bit?”

When’d he sneak up? Stretching next to me and spouting tactless stuff is Nakamura-san.

“Seriously, it’s fine when we’re separate, but the second we’re together like this, the guys start gawking and whispering about the girls’ bodies, rating them and all. Guys really are a dumb species. Not saying it’s filthy, but they’re way too ruled by their lower halves.”

“Yeah. I’m kinda the same, though.”

“Really? Compared to the rest, I’d say you’ve got some sense as a guy… Oh, wait, no—it’s not sense, you’re just obsessed with Umi-pai. My bad.”

“U-Umi…?”

That’s a super weird way to put it, but I get what Nakamura-san’s hinting at with ‘that,’ so I don’t press her.

Seems she caught me, but my main focus wasn’t Amami-san—it was Umi, shooting at the hoop on the opposite side.

…Not to make excuses, but I was looking at Umi as a whole, not zeroing in on one part like the other classmates.

Still, I can’t deny it caught my eye, so yeah, I’m part of the ‘dumb species’ too.

“Seeing you side by side like this, Nakamura-san, you’re really tall, huh. Did you play something in middle school?”

“Nope. Just your average mystery-loving lit girl. But for some reason, I’ve got the build, so I get dragged into stuff like this. I debated volleyball, but Umi-pai’s charm won me over this time.”

“…I’m not gonna comment on that.”

“Aw, too bad.”

Cackling, Nakamura-san takes off her black-rimmed glasses.

I hadn’t noticed, distracted by the plain frames and her quirky speech, but up close, she’s got a sharp, gallant face.

Kinda androgynous—more likely to win over girls than guys, I’d say.

“Anyway, I’ve gotta head out soon. We’ve got a match coming up, so make sure you cheer for your precious Asanagi-chan properly, Maehara-kun.”

“Of course… but since they’re the enemy team in the class match, it’s kinda tricky.”

“Huh? No need to overthink it. Even if they’re in our class, cheering for a team like that’d just pile up frustration, don’t you think?”

“What?”

“Alright, catch ya later.”

With a smug little huff through her nose, Nakamura-san heads toward the hoop where Umi and the other four are waiting.

“Oi, Nakamura, what were you chatting about with Maehara-shi over there?”

“Mio, you were having so much fun talking to Maehara-kun that our ace’s shot accuracy tanked. Right, Asanagi-san?”

“Wha—!? N-No, I’m not, like, doubting him or anything…”

“See, guys, Asanagi-chan’s just too cute!”

“““Totally!”””

“Ugh, you’re all idiots…”

Their voices carry right over, making me itch with awkwardness, but no doubt—their teamwork’s solid.

Plus, Umi blushing and squirming is adorable.

Meanwhile, on the flip side…

“Uh, um, Arae-san.”

“…What?”

“Yesterday got messy, but, uh, let’s do our best today, okay? I’ll give it my all, so let’s work together?”

“……”

“? Um, Arae-sa—”

“Shut up. Don’t talk to me.”

“…”

Amami-san’s four teammates aside, Arae-san’s been off on her own since warm-ups, completely unapproachable.

“Forget it, Amami-san.”

“Just leave her be—let’s do our best with the four of us.”

“We’re counting on you, Amami-san.”

The other three, unaware of yesterday, aren’t hiding their frustration with Arae-san, who won’t blend into the team.

Cheering for a team like that’d just pile up frustration, huh.

“…She’s right, but hearing it from someone in another class stings a little…”

Nakamura-san’s got a point, but since Amami-san’s part of it, I can’t just ditch them that easily.

From what I can see, it looks like Amami-san’s team is about to face Umi’s in a practice match—wonder how this’ll play out.

With classmates watching their chosen teams, the match between Class 10-A and Class 11-A is about to kick off.

Per school rules, girls’ matches run 20 minutes total—10-minute halves. League games end in a draw if tied (finals get overtime), and the rest follows current standard rules.

Before the game, Umi’s team is pumped, forming a huddle.

“Alright, everyone. It’s just practice today, but we’ll face them in the real deal too, so let’s go for the win!”

“Nakamura, why’re you taking charge? Isn’t that the captain’s job? Right, Asanagi-chan?”

“There’s no rule saying the captain has to do it… but if it’s fine with me—”

With that, Umi closes her eyes and takes a deep breath.

She’s got a grudge match here, but she seems calm for now—good sign.

“—Let’s win, everyone. Class 11, fight!”

““““Ohhh!””””

Their fired-up cheer echoes through the gym, drawing shouts from the Class 11 girls in the stands.

With more girls in Umi’s class, their cheering section naturally outshouts ours.

Seeing that, Amami-san tries to rally her team into a huddle too, sending eye signals to her teammates, but one totally ignores her, so she gives up.

At the teacher’s whistle, everyone heads to center court.

Umi and Amami-san’s eyes lock as captains.

“Umi, you know this, but don’t hold back, okay? That’d be boring.”

“Obviously. I wouldn’t even dream of going easy on you, Yuu.”

They shake hands firmly, and it’s time for the jump ball.

“Nakamura-san, as planned, alright?”

“Leave it to me. Perfect chance to use this big ol’ frame.”

Class 11’s jumper is Nakamura-san, the tallest of their five. Looking at it, Umi’s second-shortest on her team. Their average height beats ours too.

“Uh, what about us? Arae-san’s the tallest here, I guess…”

“…You do it, Amami. I’ll pass.”

“Okay, then.”

Our jumper’s Amami-san. Compared to Nakamura-san, she’s maybe ten centimeters shorter? With her volleyball-worthy arms, though, the gap might be bigger overall.

But the first jump ball goes to Amami-san.

“Whoa, s-so high…!?”

“—Ngh!”

Nakamura-san’s jump wasn’t bad by any means, but Amami-san’s leap is unreal.

Ignoring height and reach, she wins the height battle and slaps the ball toward her side.

Her insane athleticism draws gasps from the crowd.

The bouncing ball rolls straight to Arae-san.

“…Haa.”

I thought she’d let it pass, but with an annoyed look, she grabs it and starts dribbling at a lazy rhythm, strolling toward the enemy side.

“Arae-san!”

“Fine, I’ll do it. Skipping out’d just make more trouble later.”

“…Yeah. That’s enough for now—thanks.”

“…Tch, annoying.”

She’s still grumbling, but not ditching the play is a win in itself.

Not like she’s jumping in with enthusiasm, though.

“Pass.”

“Oh, uh, yeah…”

After moving the ball forward a bit, Arae-san tosses it back to Amami-san. Since Amami-san’s likely our ace, funneling the ball to her isn’t a bad call.

(Arae-san… her ball handling’s kinda smooth, isn’t it?)

It’s just a glance, so I can’t say for sure, but her dribble and that pass to Amami-san—every move looks polished. The pass lands perfectly at Amami-san’s chest, easy to catch.

Thinking back, when she messed with Amami-san’s shot yesterday, it was like she aimed the ball dead-on. Could’ve been luck, but the odds of an amateur nailing that by chance are next to zero.

Maybe she’s got basketball experience from middle school or earlier.

Well, we’ll find out by watching.

“Sorry, Asanagi-chan, they got the ball.”

“No worries. Let’s steal it back.”

“Got it, okay.”

After a quick word to Nakamura-san, Umi jumps into defensive positions with the team.

They’re going man-to-man for now, but the matchups are unexpected.

“Hehe, hi there. Yuu-p… er, Amami-chan. I’ve heard all about you from Asanagi-chan. I’m Nakamura Mio—nice to meet ya.”

“Hey, Nakamura-san. I’m Amami, Umi’s bestie. Uh, what were you about to call me just now?”

“Oh, that? Just flubbed my line a bit—don’t mind it.”

Straining my ears, I catch Nakamura-san about to say something dumb again.

Like the guys said, Amami-san’s ‘those’ do stand out more than Umi’s… but thanks to Nakamura-san’s weird comment, I keep thinking about chests. This is bad.

Anyway, the real issue is the other pairing.

“……”

“……”

With a creak of her shoes, Umi marks Arae-san.

“What, you?”

“Nothing.”

They trade a single word, then look away, keeping a careful distance.

For Arae-san’s personality, that’s pretty standard, but after yesterday, I’m sweating bullets inside.

Hope they don’t get too heated and start swinging outside of defense.

“Ugh, seriously, every single one of them…”

“? Arae-san?”

“Amami, over here.”

Arae-san wiggles her index finger at Amami-san.

Probably a “gimme the ball” signal.

Catching it instantly, Amami-san passes it over, a bit stunned but obliging.

“Huh, feeling a little motivated now?”

“Not really.”

“Right.”

Arae-san’s still standing there half-asleep holding the ball when Umi’s hand darts out fast.

I thought she’d snag it in that split-second gap, but the ball’s not in Umi’s right hand where it should be.

“!?”

The moment Umi moves to steal, Arae-san smirks, slipping the ball behind her back to dodge, then charges forward toward the hoop.

Everyone on the court freezes at the sudden play from someone who’d shown zero effort ’til now.

“…Here.”

Shaking off Umi’s defense like it’s nothing, she goes free and shoots with the same momentum.

Not quite a layup, not a standard under-the-hoop shot—just a lazy form.

But the ball sails cleanly through the ring’s center.

“A-Amazing…”

Someone on the court gasps—probably Amami-san, judging by the voice—but I’m too shocked to check, along with everyone else watching.

As the ball bounces right under the hoop, Arae-san turns to Umi and mutters low.

“Lame.”

Like she’s mimicking Umi’s tone from yesterday. Paying her back.

She doesn’t say more, but she’s gotta be experienced.

And not just casually—she’s put in real work.

“…You’ve been hiding it ’til now.”

“Not really.”

Glancing at a frustrated Umi, Arae-san strolls back to her side.

“Whoa, amazing! Arae-san, did you play basketball? You could’ve just said so!”

“…No need to tell you.”

“Fair, maybe… but that was awesome! So cool!”

“Whatever.”

It was a total lone-wolf move that left most of her team baffled, but Amami-san still praises her straight-up.

Given their history, complimenting her like this can’t be easy, but that’s Amami-san’s nature—her core kindness shining through.

Anyway, that’s the first point for Class 10.

“Don’t sweat it, Asanagi-chan. She was just better that time.”

“Didn’t expect her to be experienced. Let’s take it back next time.”

“Yeah, for sure.”

Though thrown off by Arae-san’s surprise skill, Umi steadies herself fast with her teammates’ support.

Amami-san’s team has the technical edge, while Umi’s crew covers their gaps with teamwork.

The game’s only just started.