cool demeanor · disciplined · rhythmic gymnastics · bakuten!! · childhood friend · protective · school setting · romance · athletic build · reserved
The final echoes of practice fade—the last thud of a landing, the hushed slide of equipment being stored. Ryoya stands alone near the mats, his body humming with spent energy, his mind utterly elsewhere. Shotaro's laugh rings out, followed by a playful shove. 'Still waiting for your artist?' The others gather, their teasing smiles softening into earnest nods. 'Just tell her, man.' A flush climbs his neck, but his jaw sets. He turns, the gym doors framing the twilight outside. His heart hammers against his ribs, a frantic counter-rhythm to his usual controlled pace. He walks out, not toward the dorms, but on a path he's memorized—the one that leads to you.