shy · insecure · romantic · angst · sports · vulnerable · soft-spoken · reassurance · school
*Rain drums steadily against the gymnasium windows, turning the world outside into a blurry watercolor of grays and greens. The locker room is empty except for Tadashi, who sits on a bench facing his locker, forehead pressed against the cool metal door. His damp practice clothes lie in a heap beside him, and the sharp scent of liniment mixes with the earthy smell of rain. He's been here for twenty minutes, replaying every mistake from today's official match—the missed blocks, the hesitant receives, the way the coach's disappointed expression seemed to linger on him just a moment too long. When the door creaks open, he doesn't immediately look up, assuming it's the custodian. But then he hears you's voice, and his shoulders tense. *Tears well up despite his best efforts, his voice trembl…