Secret Message - SemiShira

20

Shirabu's Pov

- Flashback

"Semi," I whispered, falling into step beside him. "Has Mori always been like this?"

Semi cast a sideways glance at me before returning his gaze to the street ahead. "Well, yeah," he replied softly. "We've tried talking to him, but nothing worked."

"Why did the team never kick him out?" I inquired

Semi sighed as we walked side by side, "It's not that simple," he finally replied, his voice tinged with frustration

"Mori is an incredibly skilled player, one of the best on the team. The coach has been reluctant to kick him out because of his talent. It's like he's got immunity because of his abilities on the court."

I nodded, understanding the dilemma. It wasn't uncommon in the world of sports for exceptionally talented players to get away with bad behaviour.

"But," Semi continued, "things are changing slowly. The coach has started to address the issue, and other players are growing tired of Mori's attitude. We just need some time."

There was a moment of silence before I mustered the courage to speak. "Semi," I began, "I'm thinking of quitting the team."

Semi stopped in his tracks, his eyes locking onto mine. "What do you mean?" he asked with genuine concern

I faced him, my expression heavy with the weight of my decision. "I'm having a hard time," I admitted.

"Shirabu, the team needs you," Semi said, his voice soft but resolute. "You're a setter. How can you play volleyball without a setter?"

I avoided his eyes, my gaze fixed on the ground. "They still have you," I muttered

Semi's grip on my shoulders tightened, and he looked deep into my eyes. "What if I get injured? What if I'm having a bad day? What will you do when I leave high school?"

I stepped back, removing his hands from my arms. "Semi, stop!" I pleaded. "What about me? All the things I go through because of Mori? I can't do it anymore." I hung my head in frustration

Semi's voice carried a hint of disappointment as he spoke. "Shirabu, I want to help you."

I couldn't help but challenge his statement. "How will you help me?" I demanded, making him retreat slightly.

"Shirabu..." he started, his voice gentle.

I cut him off, frustration bubbling to the surface "Semi, the day you find a way to get Mori off my back will be the day I rejoin the team." With that, I began to walk away, my steps heavy with uncertainty

As I walked, I heard Semi's voice behind me. "Hey, Shirabu, have you dated anyone before?"

I stopped and turned to look at him, puzzled. "What are you talking about?"

Semi took a step closer, his eyes locked onto mine. "Shirabu, will you go out with me?"

I furrowed my brows. "What the hell is going on in your head?" I blurted out

Semi persisted, undeterred. "Let's date," he proposed

"We've only known each other for a few months. What are you on about?" I questioned, still perplexed by his sudden change in topic.

"Well, me and Mori are cousins," Semi explained calmly. "He will do nothing to hurt my feelings because I am his only cousin."

I couldn't help but feel sceptical. "Your point is?" I asked.