Breaking Through the Noise

Chapter 2

Yukie, in particular, couldn't help but feel a little spark of excitement at the situation. She glanced at you, remembering the days when the three of you were inseparable, and now here you were, slowly making your way back into their lives. Deep down, Yukie had a sense that things were about to get interesting. She was never fond of Makoto, anyway—he always seemed indifferent, like he never fully appreciated what he had with you. Her heart softened as she watched your reaction to Bokuto. You clearly didn't remember him, but it wouldn't take long before his big personality made an impression on you.

Kaori, on the other hand, was already piecing together the possibilities. She'd seen the way Bokuto carried himself, full of confidence, always looking for a challenge or something to get excited about. He was a magnet for attention, and if anyone could pull you out of your post-breakup shell, it would be him. Kaori smirked to herself, silently wondering how long it would take before you started seeing Bokuto differently. She didn't want to push you into anything—after all, you were still healing—but a harmless crush on someone as fun and lighthearted as Bokuto? It could be just what you needed.

"He's right over there!" exclaimed Kaori. "I told you it's hard to miss his horned owl head."

You shifted your gaze over the window where Bokuto stood over Yamato Sarukui's desk. Sarukui was one of the volleyball players you recognized since he always walked by your class, 3-3, with a sport bag that said Fukurodani Academy Volleyball Club.

"Hey! Whatcha got there Sarukui?" you could hear Bokuto questioning. His vibrant, and often times exuberant personality made him stick out like a sore thumb. While it wasn't necessarily in a bad way, it was hard not to get annoyed hearing his intense highs and lows while playing volleyball.

"That's Bokuto?" You gestured with your head. "I swear he's the guy whose tantrums I can hear from across campus. I never knew he was on the volleyball team. I thought that all the screaming was from something more strenuous like power lifting."

Yukie stifled a laugh and whispered to you, "You would think so, right? But don't tell him I said that. He does get difficult to handle when he's in one of his slumps during a game."

Your attention turned back to your muscular classmate, his physique was more than impressive. "Hm, I suppose that makes sense," you tapped your chin. "What position does he play?"

"Oh, he's a wing spiker but he's also the captain and the ace," Kaori said matter-of-factly.

You leaned closer to the window, watching as Bokuto animatedly discussed something with Sarukui, his expressive gestures punctuating every word. "The ace, huh? I guess that explains the larger-than-life personality," you mused.

Kaori continued, "He's incredibly talented, but you know how it is with him. His highs are sky-high, but when he's down, it can really affect the team."

You nodded, intrigued. "He seems... fun, at least. I can't imagine what it must be like to have him around all the time."

After years of being conditioned to handle Makoto's angry outbursts, it was hard to think that Bokuto's upbeat attitude could be so normal.

Just then, Yukie's eyes lit up. "You know, we could really use some extra help during practices. If you're interested, I could ask Bokuto if you want to volunteer with us. It'd be a good way to get your mind off everything."

Your heart raced at the suggestion. Volunteering with the team sounded like an amazing opportunity to distract yourself, but the idea of being around someone so lively made you both excited and apprehensive. "Are you sure? I mean, I wouldn't want to intrude."

Kaori waved her hand dismissively. "You wouldn't be intruding! Trust me, Bokuto loves having new people around. Plus, it might help take your mind off... you know."

Taking a deep breath, you felt a rush of determination. Without a relationship to worry about, you did have a lot more free time. "I'm not opposed to the idea," you shrugged. "I think you're right though. Asking the captain for permission is probably a good place to start."

"Great! Let me just grab him," Yukie said, standing up with a grin. As she made her way to Bokuto, a mix of anticipation and nerves jumbled inside you.

Moments later, Yukie returned, Bokuto following closely behind, his expressive eyes brightening at the sight of you. 

That's her, Bokuto thought, instantly recognizing you. He had seen you around before, usually hanging out with that guy—what was his name? Makoto. Bokuto had always felt a weird vibe when he saw the two of you together. Something about the way that guy acted didn't sit right with him. She deserves better than that guy, he mused. But he pushed the thought aside, focusing on the moment as his eyes met yours. He was glad to see you without Makoto for once. 

"Hey, you're the girl I've seen around!" he said, leaning against the doorframe, a playful smirk on his face. "No male accompaniment today?"

Grimacing slightly, it never dawned on you that the whole school had taken notice of your relationship and it was somewhat embarrassing. Thankfully, Yukie interjected on your behalf. "We were just talking about how we could use an extra pair of hands at practice. Our friend (Y/N) was wondering if there's a chance she'd be able to volunteer for the team."

Bokuto's eyes widened, and he flashed that contagious smile. "Absolutely! The more, the merrier! We could use someone to keep us organized. Plus, I promise I won't bite!"

You couldn't help but chuckle at his enthusiasm. "Alright, I'm in. What do I need to do?" At least someone wanted your company.

"Just show up to practice after school! I'll make sure you have a good time," Bokuto replied, his energy infectious.

As they walked away, Yukie gave you a knowing smile. "See? This will be great for you. It'll give you something to focus on and help you forget about everything else."

A sense of relief washed over you. This was a chance to clear your mind and immerse yourself in something new, far away from the shadows of your past. Maybe this was exactly what you needed right now.

A/N: I intend for this story to be a slow burn, but don't worry, I promise things will pick up :)