𝐍𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐓𝐄𝐄𝐍. 𝐋𝐈𝐓𝐓𝐋𝐄 𝐁𝐈𝐑𝐃
And There You Stood

EVERY ATHLETE, WHETHER THEY ADMIT it or not, is superstitious. For many, it means having an unbreakable routine before every competition or game. While it may not guarantee a successful win, it eases the individual to know that they have control in one aspect of the day and that they're working hard to achieve their goals. Minako wasn't severely superstitious like many of her fellow skaters were. She's seen girls meticulously plan out every second of their day because they believe breaking their routine means a chance of slipping up. For example, Minako's pretty sure that Lisette Boucher is always the last skater to leave the rink after the practice session before the actual competition starts. And while Minako could easily make fun of the skater for being so superstitious, she knew she had a few superstitions of her own that others would mercilessly mock her over. She knows she's good enough with or without these rituals, but it's a risk not worth taking in her eyes.

      One of them was her need to listen to classical music the day of the competition. Minako's family knew better than to try to indulge her in a conversation and simply let her be in silence. Basile didn't even bat an eye as his middle child sat down at the table for breakfast and ate in silence. Even Kyoga who hasn't witnessed Minako's routine in a long time kept quiet as Minako readied herself. But no one could ignore how different today was and how tense the atmosphere was. Because as much as they tried their best to let Minako get mentally prepared, they were also waiting for the pin to drop and having everything break.

      Don't get them wrong, they all know how serious this is for Minako. After years of going to competitions and showcases, they've grown used to Minako's rituals and superstitions like her strict need to tie her left skate before the right. In the years previous, before her move to France, everyone didn't bat an eye at any of this. But it wasn't until the holidays when they'd fly over and witness a showcase here and there during their stay, did they realize how much a person can change in such a short amount of time.

      She didn't bother fighting or arguing with them over her change in character. After all, they weren't the ones in every green room before a showcase or competition, they weren't the ones who had to go out there and perform, and they weren't the ones putting their body and mind at risk because of a sport that loved nothing more than to belittle your worth based on the sole idea of perfection.

      Minako watched from the mirror as Mathis entered their small green room. She lowered her makeup brush and turned around just as he pulled out a small bouquet from behind. Wrapped in light brown paper were a bunch of white tulips, the bouquet itself bounded by a light purple ribbon. 

      They looked almost identical to the first bouquet he had ever gotten her.

      "You didn't have to," was the first thing that fell from her lips as she accepted the bouquet. "It's just a showcase . . ."

      "It's tradition," Mathis answered shyly, one hand reaching the back of his neck slowly. The apples of his cheeks flush as he darted his eyes between the flowers and her, almost as if he was trying to decide which is less intimidating to look at. "They're a bit small, aren't they? My fault for not ordering one in advance and using hand gestures don't get you too far in Japan."

      Minako could only nod in response, unsure of what to say next. Though thanking him seemed like an ideal thing to do, their relationship is far too damaged for such words to hold any meaning left. Awkwardly, she turned around and returned to brushing red against her pale lips, trying her best to distract herself and ignore his presence as he settled in the chair next to hers.

      There were only a few more hours until the showcase and this chapter of her life was finally going to be over.

      She tried her best not to think too much about his act of kindness. It reminded Minako too much of the past when Mathis would only make sure that she had a bouquet before every performance they had together. Their stupid little tradition stemmed from her first performance of the season with Mathis when no one she knew was able to make it out and watch. And in the end, when she watched everyone else get handed flowers from their loved ones, she lingered bitterly in the background, not even caring about the results anymore. The next day he showed up to their practice with an obnoxious batch of assorted tulips, and every showcase and performance after resulted in beautiful tulips before they stepped onto the rink.

      "You know, I never apologized," Mathis began softly, fearing that if he raised his voice any longer it may push her away. She's seen her partner in various scenarios with varying emotions pooling in his eyes. But fear was never one until now.

      She watched from the corner of her eye as Mathis shifted in his seat, gaze averted to the ground and hunched over as his arms rested on top of his knees. He glanced up at her and gave her a weak smile, so unlike his usual firm stance of cool and collected. 

      "I didn't . . ." Mathis paused, physically struggling with the right words to say. His lips twisted into a frown, frustrated with his inability to grasp his thoughts. "It was wrong of me to cheat on you and I'm sorry for hurting you like that. I know no amount of sorry's can fix what I did or make you forgive me. But, I am so, so sorry Manon.

      "I don't have a reason for why I did what I did," Mathis continued slowly as he rubbed the palms of his hands together, trying to compose himself from doing something to further upset her. "Because I did care about you. I swear I did. And — and it wasn't like I wanted something else or because she was better, I just . . . I don't know and I can't tell you why I did it. She was just there and . . . and at that moment I wanted it and I don't know why."

      Minako gripped the makeup brush in her hand tightly. "Was she . . . did you love her?"

      She fears his answer.

      "No."

      The tightness in her chest doesn't diminish nor does the dull ache in her heart leave at his words. Instead, its grip still held her body fiercely, almost mocking her for believing that having the answers would get rid of the pain that still lingered like a phantom touch. His lack of an answer, then and now, still grabbed at her even when he was away. But now that he's here she could practically feel his touch on her skin.

      "That isn't good enough for me," Minako whispered thickly. She swallowed the lump in her throat and tried her best to blink away the tears that welled up in her eyes. But looking at him only further reminded her of everything he had thrown away for nothing and yet, everything. "I just need something from you. Just, give me something, anything. Because there had to be a reason for why you cheated."

      Mathis ran his hands through his hair, not even caring that he was messing it up. "Maybe I wanted something that didn't feel like just a partnership," Mathis admitted quietly. He looked up and met her eyes. And for the first time, in a long time, Minako saw regret swirling in his eyes. "I . . . You were my girlfriend, my partner. But sometimes we blurred that line too much that it got confusing for me. And I fucked up."

      She sat still in her chair, unsure of what to say or do next. It was an answer to a question she had on her mind for months. Minako knew whatever reason he gave her was never going to make it all go away: the doubt, the what-ifs, and the new sprouts of insecurities that have taken root. Because Mathis will always remain a part of her life. Whether it's because of their partnership or how working with him created a new version of her or the insecurities that have snipped the beautiful flowers that once held a spot in her heart, Mathis will always be a part of her. 

      "But I swear to you that it was real for me too," Mathis breathed out, almost scared that if he spoke any louder his words would lose sincerity. She tried her best to ignore the tightness in her chest the minute she saw his eyes tear up or the soft tone of his voice. "All of it. I meant it when I said that you're the best and one of the most beautiful girls I've ever met."

      Minako's ears rang from shock. She hated the fact that she believes every word he said. He's given her no more reasons to trust him or his words.

      "Okay," Minako swallowed as she stood up. She grabbed her club jacket that rested on her chair and headed towards the door, trying to ignore the tears that made blinking difficult. Fingers gripped the black jacket tightly as if it was the only form of salvation in this rink, but in many ways it was. She had no one around that she trusted, nothing to rely on other than a measly black jacket.

      "I still do," Mathis called out to her quickly, hoping his words reached her. 

      Minako glanced over her shoulder only to watch as he stood up from his chair and take a step forward. She quickly turned around. He didn't chase after her, he stopped himself almost as if he knew doing so would only ruin what little relationship they have. "Love you, I mean. I still do. And I'm not just saying that just because. I . . . From eight months ago to now, I've still been here, loving you."

      "I don't know what you want me to say," Minako told him quietly, refraining from turning around because she knew if she did, if she looked at him, she would've thrown it all away for him one last time.

      "Tell me . . . I . . . I don't need you to say that you love me back . . . Just, say yes. When we get out there, say yes . . . Please."

      Bile rose from the back of her throat. Minako pushed herself out of the room, trying to ignore the roaring sounds of violin in her left ear from the earbud that threatened to fall onto to the ground, trying to ignore the tightening feeling in her chest as Mathis held its grip on her heart one more damn time, and trying to not break like everyone was waiting for her to.

      Because this is the ending she wanted back in France. This is the confession, the apology, the explanation she wishes she would've gotten the minute she caught him cheating. And even if it wasn't a full-blown affair, even if it was just a simple kiss, the act of Mathis' betrayal still had its claw deep in her skin. It wasn't the betrayal that hurt, it was the fact that he had managed to strip the best version of herself she had known, and even then — even after Minako was fully convinced that this was it, it was still not enough.

      She knows what he's asking of her. But the answer Minako thought she had now ended with a question mark as a new option forced its way in the ring.

      Minako didn't even blink twice as she pushed past her grandmother and headed towards the closest exit. And as her grandmother gasped and demanded her to turn around, Minako only continued to walk further away from the rink and to the closest restroom.

      The door of the restroom opening slammed against the wall loudly, the quietness reverberating the noise louder than what it originally was. While Minako was grateful that it was only her in the old restroom she could honestly care less if anyone were to catch her in this moment.

      But your reputation would be tarnished, she could hear her grandmother cry outrageously.

      "FUCKING HELL!" Minako screamed as she spun around and punched one of the lockers.

      The skin on her knuckles stung with pain from the harsh impact and her ears rang from the sound. Minako slid her back against the wall of lockers, palms of her hands pressed against her eyes as she tried to stable her shaky breathing. Hands grip her lungs like a vice making it difficult to breathe. And as she grew lightheaded the thoughts only seemed to grow louder and louder with every passing second.

      There was no reason to quit, there was no reason to back out of the best thing she ever had. Because as disruptive and difficult standing under those lights was, the feeling was intoxicating and unlike any other high Minako's ever had. People respected her when she had Mathis right by her side, they saw her as someone powerful and beautiful. 

      But the fear of being let down again, the fear of measuring up to unrealistic expectations crept to the back of her throat. It settled in her bones, it paralyzed her, and it tore at her skin.

      Minako ignored the sound of footsteps getting closer and closer to her position on the floor. When she finally removed her hands away from her eyes, ready to snap at the other person to get away, she stopped herself.

      Shiori crouched right in front of her, face stoic, and eyes unreadable. But before Minako could bring herself to feel embarrassed for acting so childish in front of her, Shiori beat her to it. The older girl brought her fist up in between them and there Minako noticed the scarred skin that marred the tops of her knuckles.

      "Punching only goes so far before we ruin ourselves," Shiori murmured. She reached inside the pocket of her maroon corduroy coat and pulled out a box of bandages that had Hello Kitty printed on them. "They won't care about the before or after, only the moments when we're on the ice because that's when we're at our most perfect. But the us before and after then, they don't care."

      Minako said nothing, she could only watch as Shiori placed the box of bandages next to her and stuff both of her hands back in her pockets. The box was almost half empty and Minako glanced over at the older girl's hands that were concealed before she wondered if her knuckles matched the reddening skin of hers.

      "Don't fuck up out there," Shiori suddenly said as she stood back up. She towered over the younger girl, staring down. Her eyes were unusually sad and empty, almost as if Shiori was unable to decipher what it is she wanted to feel. Or maybe sadness was an easier emotion to handle than feeling overwhelmed or frustrated. "You'll find the crowd here's a lot different compared to France."

      "Is that a warning?"

      Shiori cracked a small smile before she shrugged her shoulders. Minako thought she looked awkward when she smiled. "No. Just from experience, I guess. I look forward to finally seeing what the famous Manon is like. Try not to disappoint me."

      Minako snorted. She watched as Shiori left the restroom without a goodbye. As her fingers curl around the box of bandages all Minako could do is try to focus on the murmurs of the classical music blaring from the headphones that dangled around her neck. She winced as she flexed her fingers out, trying her best to ignore the soft sting around her knuckles from her reckless action. There was no way she could put the bandages on now, not when cameras were going to be zooming in on every inch of her body. 

      No matter how much she wanted to deny what Shiori said, she couldn't help but agree. The skating scene in Japan is different than in France. And though she started her career in this prefecture, they never saw her grow and develop into the skater she is now. They weren't going to be merciful to her simply because of her list of achievements, if anything there were standards they were going to hold her against because of who she is.

      All the more reason to do well out there, she could imagine her father muse.

      With her free hand, Minako pulled out her phone and texted.

To: Sawamura Daichi
Good luck today.

LOSING GREW TO BE SOMETHING Daichi had gotten used to. Though it was sad to admit that they couldn't even win at least one set, no one could deny that right now Nekoma was the better team. Their chemistry, their ability to problem-solve, all of it was something that Karasuno lacked right now. Still, the practice match sparked hope in him for his team because they were able to keep up with the strong Tokyo team and that had to mean something. However, part of him cannot deny that the loss didn't weigh him down as much as it should've because of Minako's text.

      Even with her gone Daichi still managed to think about her. But thinking of Minako in such a way was something the captain shouldn't even toy with. Liking Minako, seeing her in a new light, it was a dangerous game to play, one that was never intended for him. He shouldn't crave her presence, he shouldn't feel so giddy over a simple text, but he does and now he's unsure of how to stop feeling this way.

      As the team got ready to load the bus and head back to the school Daichi noticed three of his teammates huddled near the bus. Right away he knew it was Kyoga, Nishinoya, and Tanaka, and the idea of the three of them brewing something already pinched his brain in a panicked way. 

      Breathing out a tired sigh, Daichi adjusted the strap of his shoulder bag before making his way over to the small group. "Whatever you're thinking of doing, don't."

      Kyoga snapped his head up and sheepishly smiled. "Nothing illegal, I promise," he told as he held his hands up for his captain to see. Daichi noticed a rolled-up piece of poster sticking out from his bag. "You guys can head on back to the school. Tanaka and Nishinoya and I are gonna head out, but we'll see you guys tomorrow for practice."

      Daichi arched an eyebrow. "You guys have plans? Right after we just spent an entire day practicing?"

      "What's going on here?" Suga questioned as he and a few of the others walked over. The vice-captain had a playful smile and resembled a child who wanted in on a secret. "Are we going somewhere?"

      "No," Tanaka blurted out. His quick comment raised eyebrows almost immediately and the flustered and panicked look on the second year didn't go unnoticed by the rest of the team. "We need to go like right now — "

      "Oh come on, let's just tell them!" Nishinoya complained annoyingly as he crossed his arms across his chest. He glanced up at Kyoga who glared at him warningly. The libero only shrugged his shoulders and let out a huff, "The more the better! And like you said, Matthew's gonna be there so it's easier if all of us were there to shut him up."

      "It's Mathis," Kyoga hissed back.

      "That's what I said!"

      "Oi, what are you guys yapping about?" Coach Ukai asked as he, Takeda, and Kiyoko sauntered over to where the team all stood. The blonde-haired coach gave a bored look as he glanced over at the empty bus beside them. "Hurry up. We need to head back to school and analyze today's match so we can prepare for the official matches that are coming up."

      "Actually," Kyoga interjected as he raised a pointed finger, "Um, the three of us can't go. There's somewhere we need to be right now and it's kind of important."

      "Is there something wrong?" Takeda asked worriedly as he looked between the three boys that stood in front. Kyoga sighed as Nishinoya slapped a hand against his forehead all while Tanaka darted his eyes around, trying his best to avoid eye contact.

      "It's Minako!" Nishinoya finally exclaimed. Suddenly all eyes were on the libero who looked relieved that the answer was finally out. "We're gonna go see Minako who's secretly famous and athletic. She's this big-shot skater from France and she got injured which is why she's back in Japan and why she transferred to our school. But now her shitty partner Matthew's back and it's all bad. Good news though, she's skating again and there's this big, important showcase and we're gonna go watch her!"

      Everyone stilled. Except for Kyoga who threw his arms up in the air and gave his back to the group, almost frustrated that the news had gotten out.

      "Well, at least it wasn't me who told them," Tanaka sighed as he pulled out the folded-up poster from his bag. In big, bold black characters were the words 'Manon Clavette' written on with terrible drawings of — maybe birds? — surrounding them. "I think I spelled her name right, not sure."

      Daichi tried his best to process everything Nishinoya had rushed out. A lot of what he said made sense such as Minako's sudden transfer to their school and why she was in a wheelchair. Everything slowly shifted like a puzzle with all the pieces falling into place. Memories of the first few days of Minako's stay came to mind and Daichi could almost place the emotion behind every timid glance and every scowl sent their way. Because it wasn't an indifferent individual that was in front of them, but rather an emotionally frustrated and tired girl who had her world ripped under her feet without a warning.

      But instead of remembering the girl he first met, Daichi's mind drifts back to the girl who took him to the rink for the first time. The same girl whose voice held such wistfulness as she overlooked the rink and now it made sense when she said that the rink was like a second home to her. Not just because of her father, but because it was the place that shaped her into the young woman that stood in front of them.

      He met eyes with Kyoga who looked at him apologetically. The look on Kyoga's face was enough to confirm that what Nishinoya had said was true.

      "She didn't think she'd get to do this again," Kyoga spoke up quietly, trying his best to excuse his sister's silence after so long. The middle blocker smiled sadly. "It just happened again, all of this. So don't . . . don't hold it against her that she didn't tell you guys. None of us thought that we'd get to see her skate again, at least, not this early."

      Asahi was the first one out of them to speak up.

      "Is she okay now?" the ace wondered, concern twinging on his voice.

      Kyoga nodded slowly. "The pain's almost all gone. She's been practicing for a few weeks now. She just needs the mental support, I guess. Things didn't end well between her and her partner after her accident."

      "We're there to scare him off," Tanaka added. "Kyoga's the translator."

      Kyoga ignored his comment and faced Coach Ukai and Takeda. He bowed his head apologetically. "Sorry for not staying, but my sister needs me. And I need to be there for her."

      Takeda only shook his head and smiled at the third year. Surprisingly even Coach Ukai didn't look too bothered by the fact that they weren't going.

      "Minako-san is your sister and she is a part of this team," Takeda commented smoothly. His words were enough to crumple the brave facade Kyoga tried his best to not break, but at the mention of his sister, everyone could see that he was close to wavering.

      "Any chance we can go?" Ennoshita piped up from the back. The other second-years who stood behind him nodded their head in agreement. "Like Takeda-sensei said, she's part of this team."

      "No, no, it's fine, the three of us can just go and — "

      "We should be there for her," Daichi found himself interrupting his friend. His voice finally found its way back to him, but it remained low, almost as if talking about her was a sin he shouldn't commit. "We're a team for a reason."

      Kyoga looked at him stunned. The emotions in his eyes were difficult to decipher, but it wasn't long until Daichi was able to detect what it was that his friend was trying to express. The look of gratitude in Kyoga's eyes was enough to confirm Daichi's decision. This wasn't just his team, it was his family.

      While Kyoga hasn't said anything about the development in Daichi and Minako's friendship, it doesn't change the fact that he is still her brother. Kyoga was far from an overprotective brother and though he always insisted that Minako never walk home alone, Daichi now knows that it stems from the guilt he must've felt for all that Minako went through. Undoubtedly Kyoga trusts them all with his sister, but this is them asking him to trust them with a hidden part of Minako, one that is more fragile than the other.

      "Are you guys sure?" Kyoga quipped one last time, his eyes still holding his uncertainty over the matter. "She's . . . different when she's on the ice. Not a good different, just different."

      This time it was Kiyoko who had spoken up.

      "It's okay," the other managed said. "I'd like to see Minako-chan skate."

      "Me too! Me too!" Hinata chimed energetically, almost as if he hadn't just been running and jumping around all day. "And if Minako-san needs us to scare off this Matthew guy then we can help!"

      Kyoga looked over the rest of the team, those who haven't spoken up. The second years nodded without any hesitation and Daichi knew their friendship and loyalty played a role in their decision. For Asahi and Suga, it was no question at all, after all, they adored Minako as their manager and Kyoga is one of their closest friends. But to their surprise, Yamaguchi and Tsukishima didn't object. Or rather, Yamaguchi agreed where Tsukishima looked indifferent.

      Finally, Kyoga turned towards Coach Ukai and Takeda-sensei for final confirmation.

      Coach Ukai sighed as he rubbed the back of his neck with his free hand. "Well, you brats earned a break anyway so let's go and do this," he concluded. He smirked at Kyoga who looked relieved in his answer. "Besides, if going to this motivates you then so be it. We're gonna need you in a game in the future."

      Nishinoya threw his hands up in the air and jumped excitedly. "Yes! Thank God we all know now! Do you know how annoying it was to be the only one who knew everything? Let's go!"

      As everyone excitedly began to board the bus, ready to head to the rink, Daichi stayed with Kyoga who lingered outside. For the first time, Daichi was unable to read his friend and what he was thinking. Perhaps they had pushed him too much and maybe he didn't want them to attend Minako's showcase unlike what Tanaka and Nishinoya said. Although they've been teammates for years, it doesn't mean that the bond they have with Kyoga is more important than the one he has with his younger sister.

      And Daichi knows that Kyoga will push aside anything and everything for the family.

      "Don't be disappointed," Kyoga said simply.

      "By Minako's skating?" Daichi dumbfounded. "I've seen her skate before — "

      "With whatever decision she makes in the end," Kyoga corrected as he shook his head. "I know my sister and I know that nothing is more important to her than skating. Not me, not my parents, not this school. We've all accepted that but you guys haven't yet. She's a different person on the ice."

      "She's still Minako though."

      Kyoga exhaled sharply before he faced Daichi. "I love my sister dearly, but even I can admit that the person she was back then is mean. All she cared about back then was skating. There was a reason why none of you met her until she got injured, why she never came back to Japan for years. The person that you guys know now is a much tamer version of the one that I used to know. But that person didn't have skating for months, that person was lost because she had no opportunities for her. And now she does and she's going to risk it all for skating again."

      The seriousness that clung to Kyoga's words made Daichi want to believe him, want to trust his friend and what he had to say. But the other part, the part that's making him hesitate is the idiot who experienced walks with Minako, who got to laugh with Minako over the dumbest thing, who became the one person she called first when she was in trouble, and who skated with her and witnessed her fall in love with it, that was the part of him that made him doubt Kyoga.

      And maybe the Minako that Daichi knows is false, maybe it's stupid for him to lower his guard for a girl who will sacrifice anything and everything for a dream. Maybe this was a sign from whatever higher up was listening to wake up.

      He always knew a girl like Minako was too good to be true. But the want to see her succeed and rise to greatest was more than any selfish desire he may hold for himself.

ARRIVING AT THE ICE RINK WAS a jarring experience for them, after all, none of them could've predicted the magnitude of Minako's world. The first thing that greeted them was strung-up banners that showcased several figure skaters in their beautiful garments. But the one that stood out in the middle was one of Minako and a guy right next to her. The sight caught them all off guard with how dolled-up Minako looked in her makeup and expensive bejeweled dresses. Compared to the manager that they know in a simple Karasuno uniform and bare-faced, this was a whole new world. Even Tanaka who knew of Minako's secret continued to mutter under his breath that even the devil could look so kind

      As they walked their way to the front where Basile Clavette waited for them, the several people that were still waiting in line for tickets gave them all dirty looks. 

      Even this brief introduction to Minako's world was tense. Daichi could see a younger version of Minako being ushered in the early morning to prepare and having to ready herself amongst the vicious. It was no surprise that in such an environment she was forced to shield herself.

      "God and he's ugly?" Tanaka asked in disbelief as he stared at the banner above them. With arms crossed and a scowl heavy on his face, he glared at the sight of Minako's partner. "I'm telling you Minako has terrible taste in guys. She should've just said yes to that guy from the soccer team or — Hey! What was that for?"

      "Because no one knows that they dated!" Kyoga, who elbowed Tanaka in the side, hissed between gritted teeth. "It's a secret for a reason. You really think Golden Boy over here would be allowed to do this showcase without any backlash?"

      The rest of the team looked up to inspect the banner, no doubt trying to take in the fact that Minako and her partner, Mathis not Matthew, dated.

      "He's not bad looking," Suga commented with a hand on his chin. "Definitely that pretty boy type Minako probably likes."

      "Are you kidding me? Fujita from the baseball team is way better looking and Minako turned him down twice!" Tanaka exclaimed before receiving a smack in the arm from Kiyoko. Immediately the wing spiker coiled down and stared at the manager with a dazed look in his eyes. "Sorry, shutting up now."

      While the rest of the team converse over Minako and her supposed ex-lover, Daichi couldn't help but stare at their faces side by side. Tanaka was wrong, there was nothing ugly about Mathis Lévésque. Minako's partner is undoubtedly charming and the type that many girls would fawn over, and it didn't take a genius to understand why she was ever with him.

      Don't be insecure. They're over for a reason, he tries to reason with himself. 

      But he couldn't shake off the fact that what they had was probably something extraordinary. Their career and success have been piggy-backed by their chemistry, their ability to work together, and their feelings. Even though their relationship was kept a secret to the public, the thought was always in the back of everyone's mind when they watched them skate because something had to be there.

      "What kind of showcase is this?" Takeda-sensei asked as he flipped through the pamphlet they were given right when they arrived.

      "The showcase is just a front for the main event which is Mathis and Miko's reunion program," Kyoga answered. "It's a whole publicity thing to show that the two still have a good relationship and all that, especially since Mathis' new partner used to be their old rival."

      The dark expression on Kyoga's face only worried Daichi even further. While everyone else was excited about the new scenery and change of pace it was clear that Kyoga was dreading it.

      "Jérémie! Over here!" bellowed a loud voice. All heads whipped toward the direction of the sound and it wasn't just their team that stared in awe as Basile Clavette walked over with little Saito Yua in his arms.

      "Kyoga-san and Minako's dad is an Olympian," whispered Tanaka. "He's a pair skater too."

      Nishinoya ignored the murmurs as he confidently walked up and squatted down with arms wide up. "Yua!"

      "Ya! Ya!" Yua excitedly exclaimed as she thrashed in her father's hold before he finally lowered her. "Ya-kun! You're here! You're here!"

      "Yua that's rude, you can't just call him Ya," Kyoga scolded. Nevertheless, he smiled brightly at the sight of his little sister jumping onto their libero and crawling all over him. He faced the rest of the team who were practically melting at the sight of little Yua. "This is my other little sister, Yua. She's the nicer one. Sometimes. Believe it or not, she's actually related to Miko-chan."

      "I'm her favorite," Nishinoya boasted as he lifted Yua.

      Daichi smiled at the sight of the youngest Saito. Reaching in his bag he pulled out a granola bar he had saved up. "I think I promised to bring you a treat, didn't I?"

      Yua widened her eyes as she accepted the snack with both hands. She smiled brightly and her big, doe eyes crinkled at the side from her happiness. "Thank you Dai-niichama. I love you!"

      "Thank you all for coming," Basile spoke warmly. "It means a lot that you've come to support our family."

      Surprisingly for an Olympian, he looked so simple, but there was no doubt that attention was still placed on him as onlookers around stared and whispered amongst themselves. Kyoga looked the most like his father with Basile's strong jaw and accentuated facial features. Not to mention with how tall Basile is it's almost guaranteed that Kyoga would fall under the same category. And while Minako didn't inherit a lot of Basile's traits, she had the intense look that Basile's eyes do.

      "He speaks Japanese?" Tanaka dumbfounded a bit too loudly. He hissed in pain after Narita elbowed him in the side making him realize how dumb his comment was.

      But instead of looking offended, Basile chuckled as he scratched the back of his head. "My Japanese isn't the best. But I can get by for the most part. Plus, my wife is Japanese."

      "Sorry for his rudeness," Suga apologized as he stepped forward and shook Basile's hand. Daichi was kicking himself for not being the first one to do so. "I'm Sugawara Koshi, the team's vice-captain. It's nice to meet you. Sorry, we're late, it was kind of last minute."

      Basile returned the gesture and shook his head. "No worries, the main event isn't for another half hour or so. You guys made it right on time."

      "Sir, we don't have tickets," Daichi admitted apologetically as he shuffled in place uncomfortably.

      "It's okay, you guys don't need it. I got it taken care of," Basile reassured kindly. There wasn't cockiness or entitledness that hung on his words. "After all, it's my daughter's showcase. The least I can do is have her friends here to support her. You guys mean a lot to her."

      Everyone seemed too stunned to speak. After all, it was Saito Minako that they were talking about, the same manager whose indifference always confused them. And while they may not understand her or her thoughts on them, they knew she was fiercely loyal and protective over them.

      Now it was their turn to return the gesture.

THE MINUTE THEY STEPPED INTO THE RINK and made their way to their seats in the stands, the atmosphere shifted. It didn't take long for the tension to settle in their bones as their eyes watched the skaters on the ice. Nothing about the rink and its environment was remotely similar to that of a volleyball court. The shroud of perfection that encompassed the skaters almost seemed fake as they effortlessly jumped in the air before landing on one leg to twisting their bodies in ridiculous positions. And underneath their beauty Daichi noticed their facade chipping, baring the cut-throat individual underneath.

      All of them felt out of place with their wrinkled volleyball uniforms under their tracksuits. Compared to the almost picture-perfect skaters below they stuck out like sore thumbs. But out of everyone in the team Kyoga remained indifferent at the sight of the skaters performing in front of them. In fact, he almost looked bored.

      "That last jump was insane," Asahi whispered in awe. His fingers still gripped the pamphlet tightly, almost as if loosening his grip would affect the skater's performance. With widened eyes he glanced between his teammates, wondering if they had also seen what he just saw. "She spun two times in the air."

      Kyoga checked his nails as he scoffed under his breath, "Miko can do three . . ."

      Tanaka nodded in acknowledgment. "I saw her do it once. She actually looks like a nice girl when she's skating. I don't know — "

      "Her dad is right there," Ennoshita reminded before pointing with his thumb to Basile's direction. Luckily the former Olympian was far too enamored with the performance — and the occasional distraction and comment by Yua — to even hear Tanaka's comment.

      "I'm excited!" bubbled Takeda-sensei. The teacher adjusted his glasses as he excitedly leaned forward and watched the latest skater warm up. "This is all so exciting to see."

      "It is until you're coming in at 6 AM before every competition just so your little sister can get her hair and makeup done," Kyoga deadpanned. The middle blocker shuddered at the memory before he furiously shook his head. "Thank God she's representing France. Imagine if she represented Japan? I mean, I'd get mad props from people at school, but that would mean traveling across the country to watch her. And there's only so many times I can watch a program before I get sick of it."

      Basile cracked a smile at his son's antics. "Don't be fooled, Kyoga comes to these competitions more than most of our family. Minako doesn't like it too much because she says that he's too distracting."

      The team took a glance at Kyoga before humming in agreement much to the former's dismay. But before Kyoga could protest, Tanaka quickly shushed him as he and Nishinoya shot up from their seats and began pointing at the ice.

      "It's Minako! It's Minako!" Nishinoya rushed out as he grabbed at the members sitting next to him. "Quick, Ryu, get out the posters!"

      "WHOO! MINAKO-SAN! WHOO!" Hinata shouted from the stands as he forced Kageyama to stand up with him. 

      The short middle blocker cheered excitedly and it wasn't long until the rest of the team followed in suit. Even Daichi couldn't help but rise to his feet and shout the manager's name along with the others. But to their surprise, it wasn't just them who was supporting and screaming at the sight of Minako. In fact, many of the people attending in the stands clapped alongside them and cheered, except, they screamed Manon rather than Minako. Daichi swore he saw one girl with a fan that had Minako's face on it.

      The team's loudness quickly caught the attention of those around them and the camera crew that faced one of their cameras in their direction. Finally, their shouting reached Minako who, after skating around the rink waving and smiling at the adoring fans in the stands, stopped when she reached their side of the rink.

      She stared at them in disbelief, her smile dropping along with her arms as they fell to her sides. But it wasn't long until a smile returned on her face, this one much larger than the previous one she held. Minako threw her head back and laughed at the posters Tanaka and Nishinoya waved off their heads and at the rest of the second years who didn't hesitate to shout words of encouragement to their friend.

      "Don't be too scary and let people see what we usually see!" Kinoshita teased.

      "Show us your fancy moves!" Narita added.

      "Does this mean we need to fill your water bottle now?" Ennoshita calls out.

      Minako only laughed harder at their words that were caught even from their place in the middle of the stands. Their fun ended shortly with Minako's partner reaching for her waist and gently pulling her to continue their warmup Minako nodded her head, the big smile once on her face now faded as she followed him dutifully. But not before looking over her shoulder and waving goodbye in their direction. Together, the two skate around the rink for a few more laps as they both stretched their arms over their heads and wiggled out any nerves they may have had. They watched as Minako hits the top of her thighs with fists as she and her partner converse quietly.

      "She looks different," Suga observed as everyone in the team began to settle down.

      He was right, she does look different, and Daichi doesn't know what to think.

      Her dark, long hair that usually remained flowing against her back was now tied into a tight, intricate bun that had small jewels adorning the sides. Minako was dressed in a dark green, velvet dress with nude, mesh sleeves that had dark jewels adorning the cuffs and hips. Every sudden move she made seemed to have revealed another glistening point in her dress. Light brown eyes framed and accentuated with heavy, gray eyeshadow that brought out her fierce facial features and dark red lipstick that highlighted her usual pouty lips. But beyond the fancy clothes and pretty makeup was a look on Minako's face that was new to him. 

      It was a side of Minako he's never seen before, but only through the videos and pictures, he searched up not too long ago. But seeing it with his own eyes was entirely different.

      He was used to Minako in their school uniform or practice clothes. He was used to an indifferent Minako who didn't look phased by Tanaka or Nishinoya's antics. He was used to Minako getting excited over snacks from the convenience store.

      "God I hate his stupid face," Kyoga, who sat next to Daichi, murmured. Kyoga slouched in his seat, one arm on top of the armrest with his hand tucked under his chin. The frown on Kyoga's face was unsettling, but it wasn't until Daichi realized that his displeasure was directed towards the guy next to Minako.

      While Minako stood out with her flashy appearance, her partner was on the tamer side. However, Mathis still stood out with a white button shirt and black slacks. But seeing them side by side made Daichi understand their dynamic a bit better because even standing next to one another it was clear that they looked good together.

      The thought bothered Daichi deeply.

      "It's starting," Kyoga muttered as his sister and her partner took center stage.

      Minako stood in front of Mathis with one arm pointed in the air and her other hand settled on top of her hip. Mathis mirrored her pose as the two looked into one another's eyes.

      The soft sounds of the violin filled the now quiet rink as an unfamiliar classical song began. Almost instantaneously the pair began to move in sync, pulling away from one another only to get closer as they skated along the outer ends of the rink.

      Daichi couldn't use the proper terminology to describe what he was witnessing. But all he knows is that he felt light. Watching them skate together was like watching a beautiful movie that brings a new side of you waiting to be discovered and claimed by the world. The music amped up the intensity of the routine as the desperation waved off the two easily. Everyone in the stands watched with bated breath as Minako skated away from Mathis with an arm out. It told a story of a girl leaving and a boy desperate to chase her.

      Mathis spun her around and right as he pulled her close, he lifted her. With one leg suspended in the air and the other hugged close against his body, Minako relaxed her body against his hands. She smiled brightly in the air as he spun them around. Instead of setting her down, Mathis props her up before ejecting her into the air. Minako spun three times in the air before perfectly landing on one leg and gliding backward.

      They continued to skate before Minako spun around and faced away from Mathis. The latter was quick to follow her from behind before settling closely. With one hand pressed against her stomach and the other holding on to her arm, the two began to spin in circles before Mathis propelled her into the air for yet another spin only for Minako to land it on one leg.

      The pair continued their program filled with spins, jumps, and turns. And despite not having worked with one another for months, it was almost impossible to notice. Everything they did was synchronous and not once were they off a beat or step from another.

      Minako began to lean backward with one arm pointing towards her leg and the other stretched over her head. Mathis took her free hand and spun her around as she lifted one leg out. The ends of her dress fanned out causing them to look like a blooming flower.

      Just as the crescendo began to end, their moves weren't as powerful but gentle. Mathis pulled her back up to both her feet and just as they faced one another, the two separated and began to skate in opposite directions. A story was being told of two individuals finally being pulled apart and having to live with the decision they each made. 

      But it wasn't long until Minako made her way back to Mathis who skated backward and waited for her to fall into his arms. And she did.

      He held her by her torso and everyone cheered and roared with excitement when Mathis lifted her up with one arm. His hand firmly grasped the flat of her hip while the other remained by his side. Minako, who was laying on her side, with one leg close to her face and firmly held by her arms and the other pointing in the opposite direction.

      As the performance drew to an end, the rink was dead silent, almost as if they knew what was about to come.

      They stopped in the center of the ice as Mathis drew her in one last time. Foreheads pressed against one another, both individuals with their arms in the air, grasping and holding onto the other before melting down to their side. 

      Finally, it was over.

A/N;

THIS IS FINALLY DONE. THE RELIEF I NOW FEEL HOLY SHIT. HOLY SHIT.

Okay well, it's kind of done. I had this specific scene to end this chapter with but if I were to do that then this chapter would've been 10K long and it's already hitting 8K, so we will continue onto the next chapter!

Thank you so so much for your responses to the last chapter. It means the absolute world to me.

Also, for those of you who don't know, I came out with a Peter Parker fic recently so check that out as well!

Much Love Guys.

( written: november 30, 2021 )
( published: november 30, 2021 )