Youthful Days (Book 1)

7. Maybe Friends

It was Seigaku's tradition to celebrate at Kawamura Takashi's family sushi joint after major victories. Because Momoko and Ayuna were also champions, this invitation was extended to them. While everyone raced each other to the bus stop, Ryoma silently started in the opposite direction.

Ayuna, who had been lingering at the tail of the group, asked, "You aren't going?"

Ryoma pointed to his bandage. "I have to get this checked out."

"Are you, really?"

Caught with a lie, he sighed, "It's been a long day. I just want to go home."

"Guess that makes two of us," said Ayuna.

"You could go, you know. You're invited."

"I'm not a part of the tennis club. It seems a little intrusive."

Ryoma said nothing. They walked along the cobblestone footpath lined with flowering dogwood trees. The longest days of Japan approached with the end of spring. Even though it was late afternoon, the sun hung high in the sky. Exiting the gates of the competition site, Ryoma saw that Ayuna had no intention of changing courses.

"Aren't you going home?" he asked.

"I have to take the train to Tokyo Station," she said.

Ryoma said nothing. Not in the mood for company, he considered an alternative route home.

As if reading his thoughts, Ayuna smiled knowingly. "If it bothers you that much, I could take another train after you get on."

Caught off guard, Ryoma pressed his cap low and grumbled, "Don't make me sound so conceited. I just don't want to hear any more nagging, that's all."

"Nagging? About what?"

"Continue playing with an injury, of course."

"There's nothing wrong with that."

"Says you. Everyone's been giving me an earful about it."

"They're concerned about you," said Ayuna. "It doesn't mean your decision was wrong."

He gave her a long, hard look. "You think so?"

Ayuna nodded. "Seigaku would've been in an uncertain situation if you quit. If there's the slightest chance of getting the upper hand before reaching that point, I would've done the same."

Ryoma considered her words then scrutinized the girl in front of him with renewed interest. He thought back to the regulars who stood against him, the coach who chastised him for being reckless, and Ryuzaki Sakuno who fussed over even a drop of blood... Hanamachi Ayuna was the exact opposite. She seemed to be the only one who understood his rationale.

Unsure how to respond, he mumbled, "Let's hope the same thing never happens to you."

Ayuna smiled and then took a step back. "I guess I'll let you go ahead and catch that train first."

"You know," Ryoma began hesitantly, backtracking so their gait was in line, "I think I can tolerate you for a train ride."

***

A protracted whistle pierced the cityscape, indicating the arrival of an oncoming train. The commotions quieted as the train pulled into the station. Ryoma and Ayuna waited until disembarking passengers passed before boarding with the rest of the commuters. It was nearly rush hour and there were no seats left for two. Together, they picked a sunny spot by the side door and stood leaning against the glass divider.

"I have to say," Ryoma started, "I'm surprised you actually came to watch our game."

"I didn't plan on it. I was dragged here by a senior on the girl's team."