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Renji Takahashi, a quiet and withdrawn first-year student, has always struggled to connect with others.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 stadium lights still shone brightly, but the crowd had begun to thin.

The team was still buzzing with excitement—laughing, celebrating, replaying moments from the match.

Renji stood off to the side, still catching his breath, his muscles aching.

His gaze drifted to Asuka, who was smiling as she talked with some of their teammates.

She had been there every step of the way. Encouraging. Supporting. Believing in them.

"You guys played well," Kenjiro said, striding past with some of his Seiyo High teammates. "Well—most of you, anyway."

Renji barely paid attention until he heard Kenjiro chuckle.

"Still can't believe you brought your little cheerleader to the match, though."

Kenjiro smirked, glancing at Asuka. "She's cute, sure, but what does she actually do? Just stand there and clap?"

The words hit like a spike to the chest.

Renji's temper flared—for the first time, without hesitation.

He stepped forward, blocking Kenjiro's path.

Kenjiro raised an eyebrow. "Relax, libero. It was just a joke."

Renji's fists clenched. His heartbeat pounded in his ears.

"She's not just a cheerleader," he said, his voice sharp. "She's the reason we got this far."

Yuuto and Asuka turned, eyes widening.

Renji never started confrontations.

Kenjiro studied him, then scoffed. "Didn't think you had that kind of fire in you."

Renji didn't move. "If you actually knew anything about this team, you'd know Asuka's as much a part of it as any of us."

Kenjiro let out a small laugh, holding up his hands in mock surrender. "Alright, alright. No need to get so worked up."

For the first time, Kenjiro actually looked… impressed.

"Not bad, libero." With a final smirk, he turned away. "See you next time."

The tension lingered even after Seiyo High left.

Renji took a breath, trying to calm the anger still burning in his chest.

He turned, finding Asuka standing close.

Her expression was unreadable at first, but then she smiled—soft and genuine.

Renji blinked. "I—yeah. Of course."

"You didn't have to do that," she murmured, fingers still lightly resting on his arm. "But you did."

Renji swallowed, suddenly hyper-aware of how close she was.

Asuka had always been there for him. But this… this was different.

A thought crept into his mind—did she feel something for him, too?

Yuuto stood a few feet away, watching the interaction silently.

Renji felt his gaze, but for once, he didn't look away.

Asuka finally pulled her hand away, still smiling. "Come on. The team's waiting."

Renji nodded, but something had changed.

This wasn't just about volleyball anymore.

His heart raced—but not from the game.

Something between them was shifting.

And Renji wasn't sure if he was ready for it.

But he couldn't ignore it anymore.

Breaking Point