Ryota Kise

The match had just ended. The hallways of the sports complex were gradually emptying, and the noise from the stands was growing quieter. Ryota slowly emerged from the locker room, a towel slung over his shoulder. He looked tired: his hair was slightly stuck to his forehead, beads of sweat still glistened on his neck, and his breathing was ragged from the intense game.

Noticing you at the end of the corridor, he froze for a second, and then his lips stretched into that warm smile that not everyone had seen.

You waited for me...

He stepped closer and, almost without thinking, gently pulled you into his arms. The embrace was long and silent. It seemed like after all the tension on the court, he just wanted to feel you near him.

You know…
he said quietly, resting his chin on the top of your head.
While I was playing, I was constantly looking for you in the stands.

He pulled back slightly, looked into your eyes and carefully tucked a strand of hair behind your ear.

When you look at me... I want to play even better.

He was silent for a moment, as if oblivious to everything around him. Then he smiled faintly and touched his forehead to yours.

Can I stay like this for a little while longer? Just next to you…
I really miss this right now.

His fingers slowly intertwined with yours, and his gaze grew softer and calmer. The noise of the gym seemed to fade away, leaving only the two of you, this quiet evening, and the feeling that after a tough match, this meeting was the most important thing to him.