Haruma was standing still, his eyes locked on Shiori as she settled into the stands.
She caught Haruma's gaze and offered him a warm smile, giving him a thumbs up with both hands.
Looking at her, Haruma got flashbacks of how Mio and his mother cheered him on during the finals of the All-School Cup, their voices echoing in his mind.
Just then, Minato sensei stepped forward and called out, "Alright everyone! back to your positions, let's keep going!"
At his commanding words, all the players quickly dispersed across the field, taking their positions. But only Haruma remained rooted in his spot, his eyes still locked on Shiori.
Noticing Haruma frozen, Minato sensei called out, "Come on Haruma, move!"
Haruma clenched his fist, and without any words he turned around and began jogging toward his position.
From the stands Shiori watched him with quiet admiration, her eyes filled with anticipation…
