Chapter 2: The Arrival

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The Nohebi Academy gymnasium buzzed with anticipation as the Nekoma team arrived. Both teams exchanged tense glances, and the air was thick with rivalry. Players from both sides were itching to get on the court and prove their superiority.

Kuguri, standing with his teammates, kept his gaze locked on the Nekoma players, searching for a familiar face. When he spotted Shibayama among them, a wave of warmth washed over him. He couldn't help but smile, albeit discreetly.

Shibayama, too, was scanning the Nohebi team. His heart raced as he locked eyes with Kuguri, who gave him a subtle nod. They both knew that they had to maintain the façade of rivalry, but their secret connection was alive and well.

The practice match began, and the tension on the court was palpable. Nohebi's players were on edge, unsure of how to interpret Kuguri's unusual behavior. He was not scolding them, and his occasional smiles were disconcerting. They played nervously, feeling the weight of Kuguri's unspoken approval or disapproval.

On the Nekoma side, Yaku kept a watchful eye on Shibayama, who was playing with a newfound confidence. Shibayama's performance had improved significantly, and Yaku couldn't help but wonder if his little kouhai had found motivation in something other than volleyball.

As the match progressed, Kuguri and Shibayama's eyes met across the net during a brief break. They exchanged a series of quick glances, their expressions filled with longing. It was a silent acknowledgment of their secret love, a love they had to keep hidden from their teammates.

The match continued, and the rivalry between the two teams intensified. Spectators watched in awe as both Nohebi and Nekoma showcased their skills and determination. However, for Kuguri and Shibayama, the real battle was within themselves – the battle to maintain their act of rivalry.

As the final set came to a close, with Nohebi narrowly emerging victorious, Kuguri and Shibayama knew their secret was safe for now. They exchanged one last glance, silently promising to meet up again soon.

Little did they know that their hidden connection would continue to challenge their loyalty to their teams, leaving them to wonder if they could keep pretending to hate each other or if their love would eventually find a way to shine through the façade.

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