Waves of Future

Part 1

The transformative event that took place on New Year's Eve would alter Gou's path in life more profoundly than she could have ever anticipated. She was embarking on a new chapter, having enrolled at the local university for the next semester and secured a job at the nearby aquatic swim center. Yet, she was blissfully unaware of the twists and turns her life was about to take.

The swim team was buzzing with excitement, eagerly awaiting the return of Haru and Makoto from Tokyo. Haru, coming off a recent competition in Sydney where he placed in the Top 8, was wrestling with a storm of emotions. Despite his high ranking, the discovery of swimmers superior to him, like Albert and Kinjo, had left him feeling both angered and unnerved. His swimming, once a pure expression of his love for the water, had become burdened by his obsession with beating Albert.

Upon their arrival, though, Haru's demeanor softened ever so slightly, his lips curling into a faint smile as he reunited with his old teammates. This warmth grew as the group moved to the school to discuss the upcoming captaincy. Throughout, Haru remained somewhat detached, his mysterious aura intact, but he couldn't help but respond to Gou's admiring gaze with a small smile of his own.

Gou's affection for Haru was no secret; it was a flame that had been kindled in her heart since she was a child. Having known him since she was eight or nine, Haru had been a constant presence in her life, closely tied to her brother Rin's world. Haru had been instrumental in getting Rin back into swimming, bringing light and laughter back into his life. To Gou, Haru was more than just a swimmer; he was an inspiration, leading her to pursue a major in sports management. Despite his usual stoic facade, Haru had always treated her with kindness, never once rebuking her for her unspoken feelings.

Realizing that Haru's world revolved around swimming and his friendships, Gou had gradually come to terms with her one-sided love, choosing instead to support him from the sidelines. As she watched Haru's interaction with the team, she couldn't help but remark, "Haruka Senpai has not changed one bit," highlighting both his consistency and the fond memories she cherished.The day came to a close with everyone heading their separate ways for dinner with their families. Gou, excited to spend time with her brother, found joy in the simple pleasures of playing games and sharing laughs, unaware that this would be one of her last moments of childhood innocence.