The Fate we Choose (Inazuma Eleven GO/CS)

Chapter 96 Hand in Hand

Shirabe POV

The party was in full swing. Mom and Dad had a smile every minute, surrounded by friends and family. And I...

I peeked over at Shindou, seeing him chatting and smiling with Tenma and Kirino.

Shōko: "I don't want your love story to end up like mine... Don't take too long like we did."

I took a deep breath. 

I'll be brave.

I glanced and saw Kirara watching Taiyou as well. I squeezed her shoulder encouragingly and walked over to Shindou.

"Shindou? Can I have a minute?"

Shindou nodded, smiling. Tenma and Kirino waved as we walked away, heading outside.

The cool breeze felt nice and relaxed me a little.

Shindou: "What's wrong?"

"Nothing is wrong just... today made me think back on all that has happened."

Shindou: "Ah... you're right. A lot has happened this school year, hasn't it?"

I smiled remembering it all. When I watched the team from afar, when we met, when I joined as a manager and then eventually a member on the team. 

"I'm so grateful to all of you for accepting Kiri-chan and I. And... especially you, Shindou."

Shindou smiled, shaking his head.

Shindou: "You all fought hard on your battles as well. We went through a lot together. Even if we were on different sides, I couldn't hate you."

"Shindou..."

My heart warmed at his words. 

"Me too... I couldn't hate you. No... in fact it was quite the opposite."

I blushed a bit.

Shindou: "Hm?"

"Before we even met, I watched your plays. When I saw you first play in person... I couldn't take my eyes off you.  You were always... captivating."

Shindou rubbed the back of his neck, a bit red too.

Shindou: "Is that so? I just put my all into my plays. I'm glad you like them though..."

"That's what makes it beautiful. And..."

I fiddle with my fingers.

"I can feel your love when you play. How much you love soccer. And how much you enjoy it. That's why you were so frustrated back then. Unable to play your fullest."

Shindou: "Yeah... luckily, Tenma changed everything."

"Yes. He did."

I smile fondly. 

"Thanks to him... Kiri-chan and I got to the join the team. And play alongside all of you. I'm grateful to him."

Shindou: "As am I."

We smiled at each other, letting the breeze blow around us.

"... Actually, I wanted to bring out here for another reason."

Shindou: "What is it?"

"Perhaps now isn't the best timing. Since it's my parents' big day. But I don't want to go on without telling you."

I took a deep breath, looking straight at him.

"Shindou... no, Takuto. I... I'm in love with you."

Shindou: !