Caught his eyes | Yuki Ishikawa

Chapter 22

3rd POV- Next Game
With the season in full swing, Imoco Volley Conegliano had performed exceptionally well, securing a spot in the semifinals of the Italian league. The team was buzzing with excitement and anticipation as they prepared for the next big challenge: fighting for a place in the quarterfinals.

The day of the crucial match arrived they are aiming for the championship medal, and the energy in the arena was electric. Fans filled the stands, and the atmosphere was charged with excitement. Michi and her teammates were in the locker room, gearing up for the game.

Coach gathered the team for a final pep talk. "Alright, everyone, this is a big one. We've worked so hard to get here, and now we need to give it our all. Remember, we play as a team, and we support each other every step of the way. Let's make this count!"

Michi nodded, feeling a mix of nerves and excitement. "We've got this. We just need to stay focused and keep up the intensity."

Giulia (team Captain), always full of energy, added, "Yeah, let's show them what we're made of! We've come this far, and we're not stopping now!"

The team huddled together for their pre-game chant, each member full of determination. "On three—one, two, three—Team!"

As they took the court, Michi felt the weight of the moment but also a sense of exhilaration. The match began with intense back-and-forth action. The opposing team was strong and determined, making every point hard-earned.

Michi, as one of the key players, was heavily involved in both offensive and defensive plays. During a critical moment in the first set, she executed a stunning block, stopping a powerful spike from the opponents. The crowd erupted in cheers, and her teammates rallied around her.

Lucia, positioning herself for the next play, shouted, "Great block, Michi! Let's keep this momentum going!"

Michi, catching her breath, called back, "Thanks, Lucia! We need to stay sharp and focus on every point."

The match was tightly contested, with each team fighting tooth and nail for every point. The score was close, and both teams displayed remarkable skill and determination. Michi felt the pressure but remained focused, her eyes locked on the ball and her movements precise.

As the match progressed into the final set, the tension was palpable. The score was neck-and-neck, and every play was critical. Michi's serve was crucial in one of the final rallies. She took a deep breath and launched the ball with precision.

Giulia, watching from the court, cheered, "Come on, Michi! We need this point!"

The serve was powerful and accurate, and the opponents struggled to return it. The ball landed in their court, earning a vital point for Michi's team. The crowd's roar grew louder, and her teammates gathered around her, celebrating the key play.

With the score still tight, Michi executed a final, decisive spike that clinched the match for her team. The arena erupted in cheers as the final whistle blew, and Imoco Volley Conegliano secured their place in the quarterfinals.

The team rushed to celebrate, their faces lit up with joy and relief. Lucia threw her arms around Michi, grinning widely. "You were amazing out there! That spike was perfect!"

Michi laughed, hugging Lucia back. "Thanks! We all played so well together. I'm so proud of us."

Giulia joined in, giving Michi a high-five. "Fantastic job! We're moving on to the quarterfinals, and it's all because of our hard work and teamwork."

As the team celebrated their hard-fought victory, Lucis approached Michi with a proud smile. "You were incredible, Michi. That spike was the game-changer."

With their spot in the quarterfinals secured, the team knew that the road ahead would be challenging, but they were ready. With the support of each other and their determination to succeed, they were prepared to face whatever came next in the Italian league.

As the team celebrated their hard-fought victory, the crowd's energy was still buzzing. The match had been an intense showcase of skill and determination, and Michi had played a pivotal role in her team's success. The arena was abuzz with excitement and admiration for the incredible performance they had witnessed.

Throughout the match, the audience had been captivated by Michi's abilities. Her powerful spikes, precise serves, and game-changing blocks had not gone unnoticed. As the final whistle blew and the crowd erupted in cheers, many spectators were talking animatedly about Michi's impressive performance.

In the aftermath of the game, as fans filed out of the arena, a group of spectators gathered around the court, still in awe of Michi's skills. "Did you see that spike from Michi? Unbelievable!" one fan exclaimed.

Another added, "She's amazing. I haven't seen a player dominate like that in a long time. Her performance was off the charts."

As Michi and her teammates walked off the court, still buzzing from their victory, they were met with a wave of congratulations from fans and media. Michi felt a mix of pride and humility as she was approached by reporters.

One reporter, holding a microphone, asked, "Michi, your performance today was extraordinary. How does it feel to have such a big impact on the game?"

Michi, catching her breath, smiled and replied, "Thank you. It feels incredible. I've been working hard, and it's amazing to see it all come together. I couldn't have done it without the support of my teammates and coaches."

Another fan, with a look of admiration, approached Michi. "You were the standout player of the match. Your skills and determination were something else. It's exciting to see such talent."

Michi thanked the fan, her cheeks flushing slightly from the compliment. "I appreciate that. It was a team effort, and I'm really happy we could secure our spot in the quarterfinals."

As the buzz continued, Lucia and Giulia joined Michi, sharing in the excitement of their well-earned recognition. "You really stole the show today, Michi," Lucia said with a grin. "The crowd was talking about your performance non-stop."

Giulia added, "Yeah, it's not every day you see a player make such an impact. You should be really proud."

Michi laughed, feeling a sense of accomplishment and joy. "Thanks, guys. It's been an amazing experience, and I'm looking forward to what's next."

The unexpected acclaim and the admiration from fans and spectators were a testament to Michi's hard work and talent. As the team prepared for the upcoming quarterfinals, they knew they had not only earned a place in the next round but had also captured the attention and respect of the league's audience.

Backstage

As the anticipation for the upcoming match grew, the team's energy was electric. During a break in practice, Alessandro, with a twinkle of mischief in his eyes, approached Michi.

"Michi, I have a proposal for you," Alessandro began, his tone light but sincere.

Michi looked up, curious. "Oh? What is it, Alessandro?"

He hesitated for a moment, then flashed a charming smile. "If we win the match, would you go on a date with me? Just a friendly one, of course."

Michi was taken aback by the sudden proposal. She studied Alessandro's face, trying to gauge his seriousness. "A date, huh? And what if we lose?" she asked, half-joking.

Alessandro shrugged playfully. "Then I guess I'll have to wait for another chance. But I have faith in our team, and I'd like to think we'll win."

Michi chuckled, appreciating his confidence. "Alright, Alessandro. It's a deal. If we win, I'll go on that date with you."

Alessandro grinned, clearly pleased with her response. "Great! Now we have even more motivation to win."

The conversation added an extra layer of excitement to the upcoming match.

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Will michi open her heart to alessandro?

Hehehehehe