Chapter 14

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After having had energetic days with the others, Akane felt drained. Not in a bad way, rather, in a way that she wanted to rest so she can be her best self for the others who are yet to get their mission days with her.

Upon her request, Tsukishima and Yamaguchi agreed that they will do it on the weekend (also because both have not specifically agreed on what to do). So, the school days passed by and Akane had begun to open up, petal by petal. Everyone from the team was still ever gentle with her and just can't wait until she gets to be all smart-mouth with them. 

Kiyoko, on the other hand, had been more hands-on like an older sister. She kept checking up on her, making sure she was not being troubled by the boys. In between the practice breaks, the both of them would engage in a talk that only they themselves could hear. Funny enough, two silent people could have hours long of conversation.

Her two malicious shadows, Maiko and Leyd, had not been visiting the store to pester her for a while now. This could also be due to the fact that Akane had decided to stay in school until the practices are over so she could walk home with her uncle. 

On a particular day, the whole volleyball team were giddy among themselves as they can't wait for Tsukishima to finally invite Akane. Yamaguchi just won't do it, and he knows very well why he shouldn't. It seems that there is a subtle air of romance budding from both Tsukishima and Akane however, it is still in the stage that only others can see.

Annoying, isn't it?

But not for the boys as they enjoy this little highschool romance unravel before them (well, that and the fact that they feel like having a leverage against the unfazed Tsuki). Tanaka, specifically, enjoys fake gushing whenever Akane is around. However, Tsukishima just spares a disgusted glance at his senior and reverts back to his own world with his headphones.

"Oi, Yamaguchi." Tsukishima called out as they prepared for their practice. His bestfriend looked up from adjusting his shoelaces.

The former swung a towel over his shoulder and gestured over to the coach's niece, "Why don't you try asking her about our plans?"

"Eehhh?" Yamaguchi gave his friend a sour look, "You go do that, Tsukki."

Tsukki was about to retort but Yamaguchi cut him off, "I did the reservations, do your part, man."

With an annoyed tch, Tsukishima left and started to approach Akane. She was in conversation with Hinata.

"And then the ball just went *whoosh!* to the vice principal like this--", he proceeded to stretch out his arms and accidentally hit Tsukishima in the face.

"Ah!" Hinata exclaimed, immediately shrinking.

"Tsukishima!" Akane stood up and wordlessly held out her hands. An empty gesture but everyone stopped their tasks to adore her. "Are you okay? Hinata-san, you should really be more mindful haha!"

Tsukishima fixed his glasses before giving a cold glare at the poor tangerine. Sensing his impending doom, Hinata made a run and hid behind Kageyama who only gave an exasperated sigh.

Regaining his composure, Tsukishima returned his attention to Akane. "I'm fine, Akane-san."

"Was there anything you needed? The water jugs have been filled up but you guys have not started the practice yet... So?"

Tsukishima suddenly felt heat crawl from his neck to his face. He was confused how asking her out is suddenly nerve-wracking. A moment ago he was just as deadpan and wanted to ask her directly, but now...

"It must be because of Hinata's surprise attack" He thought sourly and reached the conclusion that that made his focus swerve.

"Tsukki--"

"Akane-san, will you go out with me tomorrow?" Tsukishima blurted out, his voice louder than he wanted it to be.

Sugawara elbowed Daichi too many times with a grin plastered on his face. Hinata came out from behind Kageyama with an 'O' mouth (identically to his similarly-minded friends, Tanaka and Nishinoya). Everyone else's hearts skipped a beat at what they heard. 

"U-uhm..." Akane was confused but also feeling the awkwardness from the silence.

"With us, Akane. He means would you wanna hang out with us tomorrow, right Tsukki?" Yamaguchi came to rescue his blabbering idiot of a friend.

The flustered blocker cleared his throat and fixed his glasses, "I- yeah- that-"

Akane giggled and looked up to meet his eyes, "Don't go blubbering around me, Mr. Flagpole."

"Don't worry, today's the first and last time," Tsukishima met Akane's eyes and felt an unknown wave run over his body, "Shortcake"

*blag!*

Everyone's attention turned to Asahi who looked sheepish. He had spiked the ball hard that it bounced high. He just wanted to squeal out at the mellow scene that unfolded before him. Apparently, everyone else wanted to as they broke out whistling synchronously, continuing their tasks. Akane did not seem to mind as she continued to read from her textbook.

"I'm not so sure with this whole idea now. She'll be alone with those two." Keishin sighed and glared at the golden-haired player. 

Takeda laughed and placed a hand on the coach's shoulder, "Now, now, don't be a grumpy uncle. Let them be kids, Ukai."

"I know, sensei, but -"

"Just a small crush, Ukai, that's all I see. Besides, Tsukishima is not really a bad guy. Sarcastic, yes but I know he'll protect her more than harm her."

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