How It Was

A year or so ago, 

The late afternoon sky hung heavy with golden hues, painting the world in the warm glow of twilight. Laughter from the nearby football field blended with the rhythmic chirping of cicadas, a familiar soundtrack to their small town. Ayane stood by the bleachers, her gym bag slung over one shoulder, watching Sota jog across the field as the team wrapped up their final practice before the finals. His every movement exuded confidence, his passion for the game clear in the way he threw the ball and barked orders to his teammates.

She couldn't help but smile. Sota Kazemachi, always so determined, so full of energy—it was one of the things she admired most about him.

"Ayane!" his voice rang out, snapping her out of her thoughts. He was jogging toward her, helmet tucked under his arm and a grin plastered across his face. The setting sun cast long shadows behind him, making him seem larger than life.