Everything has changed

Chapter 25: The Team

Morning light streamed through the thin curtains of Yachi's modest flat, casting golden streaks across the room and pulling her from the grip of sleep. The gentle hum of the city outside provided a backdrop to the calm as she sat up, rubbing the sleep from her eyes. Her flat was small but cozy, a space she had made her own over the year. The walls were painted a soft cream, brightened by framed prints of landscapes, inspirational quotes and pictures of friends and family. A shelf above her desk held neatly arranged art supplies and books, remnants of her university days and her current work.

The overall feel of the flat was serene and welcoming, a testament to how far she'd come since her days as a high school student. Now, this was her space-a place where she could start each day anew, surrounded by the familiar comforts she'd built around herself.

Her mind was still a swirl of memories and emotions from yesterday. The unexpected reunion with Kuroo had left her restless throughout the night, a mix of nostalgia and anticipation simmering in her chest.

Kuroo Tetsurou. The name had been carved into the back of her mind, a relic from years gone by. Seeing him again, with that familiar smirk and unwavering gaze, had brought a rush of warmth that felt both comforting and disconcerting. She hadn't known what to expect stepping into her new position, but finding him as her supervisor had been nowhere on her list of possibilities. Now, as the day began, she couldn't help but wonder how this change would shape the months ahead.

Yachi stood up and moved to the window, staring out at the cityscape that stretched far beyond her view. It was an early winter morning, crisp and filled with promise. She took a deep breath, centering herself before heading to the kitchen for her morning routine. The smell of freshly brewed coffee filled the small space, a ritual she had learned to appreciate over the years of long days and busy projects. Today, though, felt different-charged with a new kind of energy that had everything to do with Kuroo's sudden reappearance.

Dressing in a soft, cream-colored blouse and a pair of tailored trousers, Yachi caught her reflection in the mirror. The woman staring back was not the timid girl she used to be. She brushed a hand through her, now longer, hair, smoothing the last few strands, and gave herself a nod. Today would be the start of something new.

The journey to the office was familiar, the streets humming with the early morning buzz of people on their way to work. The building that housed the project team's workspace stood tall and modern, its glass façade gleaming under the morning sun. Yachi stepped inside, the cool air-conditioned breeze meeting her as she made her way to the elevators.

The lobby buzzed with activity as she entered. Conversations filled the space, snippets of introductions and friendly banter drifting around her. It wasn't long before she was approached by a woman with short, auburn hair and an easy smile.

"Yachi Hitoka?" the woman asked, bowing. "I'm Ayaka, part of the design team. Welcome! Kuroo told us you'd be joining."

Yachi returned the bow, grateful for the warmth in Ayaka's tone. "Thank you. It's nice to meet you."

Together, they moved toward the elevator, their footsteps echoing lightly in the quiet hallway. Ayaka led the way, a calm confidence in her stride that made Yachi feel more grounded, despite the nerves that had yet to fully dissipate.

As the elevator doors slid open, they stepped inside, the soft hum of the machinery providing a brief moment of respite

The elevator came to a soft stop, the doors opening with a quiet swoosh. Yachi followed Ayaka down the hall toward the conference room, her thoughts a blur of anticipation and curiosity. This was a big meeting-one of those moments where the weight of her role felt more pronounced. As they walked, she couldn't help but notice the way Ayaka moved, every step purposeful and practiced. She had the ease of someone who was both respected and trusted, and Yachi hoped she'd be able to carry herself with that same quiet confidence one day.