Ekans_Kumar

Renji Takahashi, a quiet and withdrawn first-year student, has always struggled to connect with others. While his social anxiety keeps him isolated, his talent for volleyball is undeniable. Renji's ability to read the flow of the game, combined with his exceptional defensive skills as a libero, makes him a hidden gem.

Enter Asuka Fujisawa, the charismatic and caring manager of the Misaki High volleyball team. Determined to bring out Renji’s potential, Asuka pushes him to step out of his comfort zone — both on and off the court.

As Renji opens up, he finds himself forming bonds with his teammates, developing newfound confidence, and discovering that the heart of volleyball isn’t just about skill — it’s about connection, trust, and passion

Hearts on The Court

The day after their match against Seiyo High, the team was granted a rare break before resuming training.

It should have been a chance to relax—to catch their breath and recover from the intensity of the game.

But for Renji, the quiet only made things worse.

He sat on a bench outside the gym, staring at the sky. His teammates were scattered around, chatting, stretching, or simply enjoying the break. Asuka was a few feet away, laughing at something one of the other girls had said.

Ever since training camp, his feelings for her had been growing stronger.

At first, he had brushed it off as admiration. Asuka had always been the one who kept him grounded, the one who pulled him out of his own head when his doubts took over. She made things feel lighter—like no matter what, he wasn't alone.

But lately… every small moment between them felt different.

Every time she smiled at him, his heartbeat sped up.

Every time she teased him, he struggled to find words.

And when she wasn't around, he caught himself looking for her.

Renji didn't know what to do with these feelings, and it was starting to affect how he acted around her.

When morning practice started, he tried to focus. Coach Fujimoto ran them through defensive drills, forcing them to sharpen their reflexes.

Renji locked in, reading each play carefully. He anticipated a sharp cross-court spike, diving just in time to dig the ball perfectly to Yuuto.

The play continued, leading to a successful counterattack.

As Renji got back to his feet, wiping sweat from his brow, Asuka passed by and nudged his shoulder.

"Nice one, Renji! You're really the backbone of our defense."

It was a casual comment—something she had said to him countless times before.

But this time, his ears turned red.

Asuka tilted her head. "Wait… are you blushing?"

Renji stiffened. "It's just… hot in here."

Asuka blinked. Then smirked. "But we're inside."

Renji immediately looked away, but the damage was done.

She crossed her arms, grinning. "Huh. That's new."

Renji groaned internally. Great. Now she's going to tease me forever.

From the sidelines, Yuuto watched the interaction with narrowed eyes.

He was used to Renji being composed, always focused on the game. But this? This was different.

Asuka had always been close to Renji—she was close to everyone—but the way Renji reacted just now…

He didn't say anything, but his gaze lingered on Renji longer than usual.

By the end of practice, Renji was still trying to shake off the feeling of Asuka's teasing, while Yuuto's mind was turning.

Neither of them knew it yet, but something between them was shifting.

And soon, it would reach a breaking point.

The Shift in the Air