Persona x Reader

Akihiko Sanada x Male!Reader (P3)

The sounds of rhythmic punches resounded in the gym, fists being hit against sandbags that swung effortlessly at the power. For you, it was as if your hands held no strength. You couldn't muster any, as it took all you had to even get out of bed.

Feeling physically and emotionally exhausted, you took off the boxing gloves and hung them up, then headed to the changing room. Being in a daze and feeling unfocused, you failed to realise someone was approaching you until a hand was gently placed on your shoulder.

You looked up in surprise, quickly getting over it when you saw the person's face. "Oh, Akihko..."

His hand retreated from its previous position, it now by his side. "You're going already? Why don't we have a match?"

Truthfully you've always looked up to Akihiko. He was always working so hard to improve, never faltering. Many people in the club were a bit jealous that there was always a crowd of girls waiting to see him, but you could understand their admiration.

In short, you'd agree to his offer any other day, but right now...

You shook your head. "Sorry, I'm... I'm not in the best form right now." You told him, trying your voice steady.

He chuckled. "Not enough protein drinks?" 

You managed to laugh half-heartedly. "I guess so. Well, I don't want to keep you from training, so..."

Giving a limp wave, you dissapeared into the changing room. Akihiko watched wordlessly as you left, a frown settled on his lips 

After changing into your Gekkoukan uniform, you stepped out and adjusted the grip the grip you had on your bag. With your gaze downcast, naturally you bumped into something, or rather someone.

Akihiko helped you balance yourself, stepping back from when you had bumped into him. "Woah, careful there."

"S-Sorry, I wasn't paying attention." You apologised, scratching your cheek. Akihko stayed silent for a moment before joining your side.

"How about a walk? Fresh air is vital for all athletes." He mentioned to you. 

"Uh, sure, but... I don't want to interrupt your training." You admitted. Akihiko was already walking towards the door, opening it.

"It'd be a good change of pace. The weather's good too." He responded. You were still uncertain, but seeing that he was persisting so much, you nodded.

"Alright..."

The two of you exited the gym, the school halls sparse due to the time. If any students were here, they were probably in their own clubs. It didn't take too long for you both to be outside, strolling under the cherry blossom trees that were in full bloom. 

Petals fell and landed on the pavement, decorating the path to the school. They fell on your shoulders as well, but you didn't bother brushing them off.

You glanced at Akihiko as he walked alongside you, stomach twisting with uncertainty. He was still in the school track suit, so you couldn't help but feel you had inadvertently ruined his training plan. 

He felt your stare, but as he turned his head, you had already begun looking ahead. There was nothing to be heard other than the sound of footsteps far off shouts from the tennis team on the field. 

You felt the need to say something, anythings t all, but nothing could come to mind. The same constant thought plagued you, one you couldn't get off your mind. 

"You know, as a teammate, I..." Akihiko shook his head. "No, as a friend, I'm here if you want to talk."

Taken aback, you didn't reply right away, prompting Akihiko to awkwardly add to his words. "That is, if you're up to it. Don't think I'm forcing you, or anything like that.."