Archive of Our Own ^beta

The Seidou baseball boys were now busy practicing in preparation for Kōshien. It had only been two days since they won against their arch-rival Inashiro. Furuya pitched for six innings while Sawamura played for the rest of it, not allowing even a single run. It was indeed a tough game. With Narumiya’s one-year improvement, it became more difficult for the batters to score against him, but thanks to Furuya and Sawamura’s pitching, the Seidou batters were all fired up hitting against Narumiya. And with Miyuki’s batting prowess, the game ended with a score of 3-2 after hitting a 2-run home run. True to his words, the captain was able to hit Narumiya’s changeup at his last at-bat. It was a true team effort, where all the moving parts contributed to every hit, every run, every bat. 

But winning West Tokyo was just the beginning of their Summer Tournament. Now they needed to prepare themselves for the third years’ final competition.

It was a bright Saturday morning. The batters were busy swinging their bats while the pitchers and catchers were all cooped up in the bullpen practicing their pitches. Kawakami was allowed to start pitching again, but only for several times as he still needed to keep recovering from his injury.

“Yosh! 15 more to go, Okumura! Hahaha!” Sawamura shouted, rotating his left arm vigorously.

“Please be quiet when you’re in the bullpen, Sawamura-senpai.” Okumura threw the ball back to the noisy pitcher.

Kawakami scoffed as he pitched to Ono. “You’re still as noisy as ever, Sawamura.”

“Nori-senpai! Of course, I’m happy! There’s nothing more reassuring than knowing that you’ll be pitching again! Let’s both do our best during Kōshien. Let’s make sure to steal the spotlight from Furuya!” Sawamura responded with a loud voice making sure that Furuya will also hear his comment.

Furuya, on the other hand, was too busy pitching to Yui to care about the obnoxiously loud southpaw pitcher. Kaneda tried to concentrate on pitching to Kariba. Miyuki, despite being the main catcher, was out of sight; apparently, he’d been called by Coach Kataoka to a meeting with vice-captains Kuramochi and Zono.

After their practice, the pitchers went to the ground to start their laps. As usual, Sawamura ran around with his tire; his laughter could be heard from a distance. 

The managers busied themselves with checking the list of supplies to buy for the upcoming games with Kōshien.

Umemoto shook her head at how loud the southpaw pitcher was being while pulling his beloved tire and running relentlessly across the field. “As always. So noisy.”

Haruno only looked at Sawamura in admiration. “It can’t be helped. They won against Inashiro after all. They’ve waited for an entire year for their revenge match. It’s a good thing they were able to win the finals and proceed to Kōshien.”

Umemoto, being the observant manager that she is, smiled at Haruno as she handed her the finalized list. 

“Haruno, can you go and buy these supplies? There’s a lot on this list so you might need someone from the team to accompany you.”

“I’ll take care of this Umemoto-senpai. Leave everything to me!”

Just as they were about to head to the cafeteria, Sawamura passed by them, still laughing, talking to the first years who were already out of breath after a few laps with their tires. 

Hahahaha! You just need to keep on running every single day! Once you do that, you’ll get used to it!

“Sawamura! Can you come here for a second? We need your help.” Umemoto motioned for Sawamura to join them.

“What is it, Umemoto-senpai?” Sawamura asked as he walked towards them.

“Haruno will be buying a few things from outside the campus. She needs help with carrying the supplies. Is it okay if I ask you to accompany her?”

“Of course! That would be my pleasure! Let me just get changed real quick.” Sawamura started running for the dorms. “Please wait for me by the gates!”

“O-okay!” Haruno could only agree; as soon as the boy disappeared from their sight, she flushed.

“Do your best, Haruno!” Umemoto cheered as she winked at the blushing girl.

“Of course! I’ll make sure not to miss anything on the list!” 

I didn't mean  that , but well, whatever. 

Umemoto only sighed to herself as Haruno walked towards the school entrance.

It took around 5 minutes before Sawamura reached the school gate as he searched for the manager. Haruno was busy checking the list upon his arrival.

“Sorry, did I make you wait long?”

“No. Not really.”

“Then, let’s finish our mission!”

Sawamura was shouting happily while Haruno was silently observing her classmate on the side. The walk was at least five minutes towards the nearest shopping center. Sawamura was enthusiastically discussing  Your Lie in April  to Haruno and the parts that made them both cry. Haruno couldn't help but be happy with the way things turned out. Finally, she was having a conversation with Sawamura regarding their favorite mangas.

It took them half an hour to buy all they needed. But as they passed by a soccer field, Haruno noticed that there was one missing item from their shopping bag.

“Oh no! We forgot to buy the tape!” Haruno exclaimed rummaging through the bags.

“Eh? I thought I already pointed at the tape when we passed by that particular aisle?” Sawamura asked while scratching his head.

“I probably didn’t hear you. I’m so sorry. How about you go back to the campus and I’ll just buy it myself? It’s pretty light so I can carry it.”

“No. It’s fine. You stay here. I’ll buy it since I already saw it earlier. Just take a rest and sit at that nearby bench while you wait for me,” Sawamura replied immediately as he carried the supplies towards the bench.

Haruno agreed and followed Sawamura. She sat quietly at the bench as suggested by Sawamura.

“I won’t take long. I’ll be back within ten minutes. Wait for me here, okay?” Sawamura beamed at Haruno.

“Okay,” Haruno whispered, her cheeks painted with a shade of red.

Sawamura headed to the store where he saw the tape. Luckily, there were no other buyers at the cashier so he finished the last errand quickly. After a few minutes of walking, he saw the bench where he’d left Haruno. To Sawamura’s surprise, the girl he left all by herself was no longer alone. Sawamura gulped at the scene. Haruno was surrounded by six tall guys and he could see from the look on her face that she’s not comfortable with the crowd’s presence.

Geh, I’ve read this scene on shojou mangas a dozen times. Do I have to play the male lead role now?

Seeing as Haruno was itching to get away from the guys surrounding her, Sawamura exhaled quite roughly as he joined the unwelcomed group.

“Haruno! Sorry for making you wait!” Sawamura shouted.

Haruno’s face relaxed upon seeing Sawamura. She stood in the blink of an eye and ran towards the southpaw pitcher and hid behind him as fast as she could.

“Uhm, I don’t know who you are guys but I think our manager is not comfortable with you surrounding her like that. If you don’t mind, we need to get going now,” Sawamura said with a calm voice while walking towards the bench where the remaining plastic bags were placed.

“Oi. Who do you think you’re talking to??” the guy on a white shirt shouted as soon as Sawamura reached the bench.

“Stop being so cheeky, kid! We’re not talking to you so why don’t you just leave us alone and mind your own business?” said the other guy with a menacing look on his eyes.

Sawamura just sighed. If only he wasn’t sharing a room with the most delinquent-looking guy on their team, he would’ve been frightened by the guy’s tone. Sawamura did not respond. He needed to find a way where he and Haruno could escape this situation where none of them will get hurt. Kōshien starts in less than a week and he didn't need to be involved in any dangerous situations that might put Seidou in a tight spot.

“AHHHH!!! MR. POLICEMAN!!! PLEASE HELP US!!! THESE BAD GUYS ARE BULLYING US!!!”

The guys surrounding Sawamura started to panic as they searched for the policeman that the pitcher made up. Upon seeing that the group was now in chaos, he grabbed the shopping bags on the bench and shouted to the manager.

“Haruno, run!”

Hearing Sawamura’s voice, Haruno started running towards the direction he pointed to. Sawamura followed suit but was stopped by one of the guys and grabbed his shirt making him lose his balance, falling to the ground. Luckily, Haruno was able to get away, not looking behind, and leaving Sawamura.

“Look what you’ve done now, you shitty brat!”

“Don’t even think for a second that you’ll get away with this."

Shit. I messed up.

It was all Sawamura could say as the group started surrounding him.

After the meeting with the coaches, Miyuki, Kuramochi, and Zono went to the cafeteria to discuss some pointers with Nabe. Almost all the first-string members were also there upon their arrival. When they entered the room, they could see that all the managers were gathered at the corner.

“Miyuki-kun! Congratulations on winning the finals! I’m so happy for the team!” Fujiwara exclaimed upon seeing the captain and the vice-captains entering the room.

“Fujiwara-senpai! So you’ve come to visit us! Thanks for your support,” Miyuki responded while bowing slightly at the previous head manager.

“It’s nothing. Of course, I’ll still be the number one fan and supporter of Seidou.”

Miyuki, Zono, and Kuramochi could only smile at the previous manager for her unwavering support to the team.

“By the way, Tetsu and the rest of the gang will be visiting today as well. I think they’re already on the way here. How about you go and meet them halfway? They bought a few things for a small celebration,” Fujiwara stated while winking an eye.

“Got it, senpai! Let me drag our captain here so he can step outside the school once in a while!” Kuramochi responded as he placed his arm on Miyuki’s shoulder to prevent him from escaping.

“Stop treating me like a hermit!” Miyuki replied in annoyance while trying to remove the shortstop’s arm on his shoulder.

“You guys! Stop dilly-dallying and just go!” Zono shouted while pushing the two.

“Shut up! Your voice is so loud!” Kuramochi bellowed upon hearing Zono’s voice.

Miyuki and Kuramochi left the room first and advised Nabe that they’ll be back in a few minutes to which the boy agreed. Miyuki contacted Chris to ask about their specific location so they can meet there. According to Chris, Tetsu, Tanba, Masuko, and Miyauchi were with him. They decided to meet at a nearby bakeshop since they’re still waiting for the cake to be prepared.

It took less than five minutes to arrive at the said bakeshop. Miyuki and Kuramochi greeted their senpais politely.

“Congratulations on winning the finals! Just a few more matches and you’ll be the national champions,” Yuuki said calmly with his usual aura oozing out.

“Tetsu-san! Hyaha! National champions, huh?” Kuramochi happily responded.

“You all did great. We’ll support you until the very end,” Chris added as soon as they stepped outside the shop, Tanba, Miyauchi, and Masuko following quietly.

They were about to continue walking when a girl suddenly appeared right around the corner on a street and bumped into Kuramochi. Fortunately, he was able to grab the girl’s arm and steadied her feet on the ground.

“Hey, are you okay?” Kuramochi asked while looking at the girl as she tried to catch her breath.

“Yoshikawa?” Miyuki called as soon as she realized who the girl was.

Upon hearing her name, Haruno checked the group she bumped into. Without wasting any second, Haruno grabbed Kuramochi’s arm and pulled him with all her might.

“Please, help Sawamura-kun! He needs help!” Haruno shouted while running back towards the direction where she had left Sawamura.

Upon hearing the manager’s statement, Tetsu and the rest followed Haruno with no questions asked.

Just before Haruno bumped into Kuramochi and his company, she was running aimlessly to get away with the scary guys that were surrounding her a few minutes ago. It took her a while to notice that Sawamura was not following him.

Haruno could only shout. “Eh? Sawamura?” 

However, when no one responded to her, her face paled upon the realization that Sawamura might have been caught by the bad guys.

Oh no! What should I do? Because of me, Sawamura is… It’s all my fault!

It was the only thought running through Haruno’s mind as she tried to contact Umemoto. After calling three times, Haruno decided to leave a message and searched for the nearest police station she could find. Luckily, she somehow managed to find some of the Seidou members and asked for their help.

Sawamura was in deep shit. Despite being an idiot, he knew for a fact that the next string of events would not be good. He tried to stand as he searched for an opening. He’d never been in a fight and even if he could, he wanted to avoid hurting anyone. But before he could stand straight, a sharp pain seared through his gut which made him kneel to the ground. And as if it wasn’t enough, the guy in a white shirt kicked him on the same spot where he’d received the punch.

He was in deep pain. Had he not trained himself properly, he would have passed out right there and then. He coughed violently as some of his salivae started trickling from his mouth.

“Oi. Oi. You done already, brat? We’re not even on the best part yet. Stand up!” said the guy who seemed to be the leader of the group.

He clenched Sawamura’s shirt as he forced him to stand. Sawamura did not respond and stayed silent for a while.

“I thought he was familiar,” said the other guy while checking Sawamura’s features. “He’s that loud southpaw ace of Seidou who defeated Inajutsu a few days ago.”

“Hoh… So he’s a baseball player too? And a southpaw ace to boot?” said the leader while still grabbing Sawamura’s shirt.

“Yeah. If you’d ask me, it was just a fluke. That Narumiya guy was a monster. No one was expecting their team to win.”

Sawamura lost it for a second after hearing that statement. And before he could stop himself, he ended up responding to the guy who insulted his team.

“Shut up,” Sawamura whispered, his hair fully covering the anger in his eyes.

“Huh?? What did you say, you stupid brat??” said the leader as he pushed Sawamura back to the ground.

“This kid must be an idiot. He’s not aware of the situation he’s in right now!” one of the guys shouted and laughed upon seeing the southpaw pitcher kneeling with his head towards the ground.

“Southpaw, huh? Hey, how about I break your left arm so you wouldn't get to play baseball again?”

The leader grabbed Sawamura’s left arm tightly, sending a warning to the southpaw pitcher that he was indeed serious.

“Take it back.”

“Huh??”

“I said, take it back!”

Sawamura had already shouted as soon as he lifted his head to face the guy who’s about to inflict another pain on his body while he remained knelt to the ground.

“Just a fluke? Don’t make light of the Seidou team. I don’t want to hear that from people who force themselves on a high school girl and gang up on a high school kid!” Sawamura said in an angry voice but this time, he’s no longer shouting.

“Oi. Say one more word and I’ll break your arm, you damn brat!” the leader threatened as he tightened his grip on Sawamura’s arm.

“Oh yeah? Then go ahead and try,” Sawamura responded as he looked up to the group with the coldest tone he could muster.

The boy's golden eyes looked without fear and hesitation towards his perpetrators. Before they knew it, they were all speechless and caught up at Sawamura’s gaze. His eyes burning with so much intensity they couldn't help but flinch at the boy’s statement. But before any one of them could speak, they heard a voice from afar. The pitcher couldn't help but look in the direction of that familiar voice.

“Hey!!!” Kuramochi shouted upon seeing Sawamura’s state.

If only looks could kill, they’d be dead by now. Kuramochi, Miyuki, and the rest of the group were all looking at them as if they’re ready for a fight. Not to mention, Yuuki’s aura was once again oozing out as if to intimidate the group ganging up on Sawamura. They’re all athletes, and they knew the consequences if they decided to start a fight in public even if there was no one in the vicinity.

“Just what the hell do you think you’re doing to our ace? Huh??”

“Tch. This is getting ridiculous. Let’s get out of here,” the leader responded upon seeing Kuramochi together with Haruno and some other guys.

The guy let go of Sawamura’s arm as the rest walked away from him. Kuramochi, Miyuki, and Haruno, together with the former Seidou members immediately went towards Sawamura.

“Hey! Sawamura, are you alright?” Kuramochi asked as soon as he knelt in front of the boy who seems to be in a daze now.

“Kuramochi-senpai? Why are you here?” Sawamura responded in a small voice.

“It doesn’t matter. What happened to you? Are you okay?” Kuramochi replied in panic as he checked his roommate’s body.

“Sawamura,” Chris said gently which made Sawamura flinched upon seeing his master. “Were you hurt somewhere?”

“Oh! I – I think I’m fine,” Sawamura replied, already in a seiza position.

“Are you sure? You looked so out of it. Don’t worry. Your beloved senpais have come to rescue you. You must have been scared, right?” Miyuki said in a light tone to diffuse the tension.

There was a moment of silence. And then, there were tears falling on Sawamura’s cheeks. All of them flinched at the sight. Except for Tanba, Yuuki, and Haruno, the rest reminded them of the time that Sawamura cried while being reprimanded by Chris when he tried overworking himself.

Sawamura lifted his right arm to wipe his tears but they just kept on coming.

“Scared?” Sawamura replied, still drowning in his tears. “Of course, I’ll be scared! What if this incident went out of hand? What if Seidou gets banned from playing because of this? I won’t forgive myself if that happened!”

This kid. We’re not asking about that though. You almost had your arm broken but you’re still thinking about the team.

“Yosh. Yosh. It’s okay, Sawamura-chan. We’re all here now,” Masuko spoke while ruffling Sawamura’s hair.

Tanba and Yuuki tried to calm Sawamura down, gently rubbing his back as he continued crying. Haruno could only look at a distance as she tried to fight the tears while looking at the southpaw pitcher being consoled by his senpais.

“Wah! Masuko-senpai, Tanba-san, Miyauchi-senpai, Leader, Shishou, Kuramochi-senpai, Cap!! I was so scared!!”

“Stop crying now, Bakamura!” Kuramochi commented as he looked at his noisy roommate.

“Sawamura, can you stand?” Chris asked as he offered his hand to the wailing kid in front of him.

“Yes. I think so, Shishou. Thanks,” Sawamura responded, still crying.

As he tried to stand, he flinched as a sudden pain shot through his stomach. Barely remembering that one of the guys had punched and kicked him mercilessly. Chris’ face suddenly turned serious as he stopped Sawamura from moving.

“Sawamura, let me ask you again. Were you hurt somewhere?” Chris asked in a low stern voice.

“I just suddenly remembered that they might have punched and kicked me in the gut? ” Sawamura responded in a light tone as he tried to laugh, making it look like what happened to him was no big deal.

Sawamura failed miserably though as he saw the angered look on his senpais. Before he could say anything more, he found himself being dragged by Chris towards the bench. Chris gently positioned Sawamura so he can sit properly.

“Let me see your injury,” Chris whispered.

“Eh? But I’m fine though, it just hurts a bit,” Sawamura responded, hesitating to lift his shirt so Chris could check how bad it was.

“Sawamura,” Chris and Tanba said in unison.

Knowing how cautious Chris and Tanba were when it comes to injuries, he agreed to Chris’ request. He remembered that it was Tanba who insisted on Kawakami to have his injury checked. And knowing Chris, he would not let it go past him as soon as he heard that he was indeed hurt, serious or not.

Chris gently lifted Sawamura’s shirt. The rest of the group was surprised to see a large mass of bruises on his abdomen. As Sawamura looked up, he could see their faces filled with anger.

“Chris, correct if me if I’m wrong. I think those guys were baseball players from A University. We’ve had a match against them a few months ago and I think I saw some of them on the dugout as reserve players,” Yuuki spoke.

“Yes. I think so too. We’ve had a match against them as well,” Chris replied to confirm Yuuki’s statement.

Sawamura, feeling so helpless at the moment, could only look at his senpais talk amongst them in a serious tone. After a few minutes, Chris faced Sawamura once more.

“Let’s go to the hospital first, Sawamura. We need to make sure that it’s nothing serious.”

“I understand, Chris-senpai,” Sawamura responded in a sad tone.

“It’s not your fault. You don’t have to blame yourself,” Kuramochi commented as soon as he saw how down the pitcher was.

He had known the kid for almost two years now. He knew that the kid will blame himself for putting such grave expressions on his teammates’ faces. But he had to make him realize that he’s not the one to blame for this incident. He didn’t do anything wrong.

Miyauchi spoke for the first time as he quietly observed the group. “I’ll go and grab a taxi.” 

There was another person in the group who was quiet after seeing the boy’s injury. As if sensing Miyuki’s aura, Yuuki decided to split the team into two as soon as Miyauchi was able to get a taxi.

“Tanba, Miyauchi, Masuko. Please accompany Miyuki and the manager back to Seidou. Chris, Kuramochi, and I will be accompanying Sawamura to the hospital.”

The rest just nodded at their former captain. Kuramochi assisted Sawamura as he was about to stand up. But before Sawamura could enter the taxi, Haruno called out to him.

“Sawamura, I’m so sorry. Because of me, you got hurt,” Haruno said as she bowed politely towards the southpaw pitcher.

“It’s not your fault, Haruno,” Sawamura beamed in response. “I’m just glad you didn’t get hurt.”

Yuuki and Chris decided to enter the taxi together with Sawamura. Before Kuramochi joined them, he looked at Miyuki.

“I’ll leave the rest to you, Captain.”

“Of course, leave everything to me.”

Kuramochi flinched upon seeing Miyuki’s smile. In the past three years that he’s known the catcher, this was the first time he saw Miyuki so angry. And yes, the smile was not helping.

Geez. This guy. It’s a good thing Sawamura didn’t see you making that face.

While in the taxi, Sawamura was surprisingly quiet as he sat between Kuramochi and Chris. Now that the adrenaline’s rush was all gone and faded, he can almost feel the pain in his gut.

“Are you okay, Sawamura?” Chris asked in a worried tone.

“I’m fine. It just hurts a bit. Now that I’ve calmed down, I’m starting to feel the pain now.” Sawamura responded as he chuckled but winced slightly.

Kuramochi frowned upon seeing his roommate trying to hide the fact that he’s aching as he hit the young boy on the head. “Stop laughing, Bakamura! It’s not good for your injury!” 

“That hurts, you know! Is that how you’re supposed to treat someone who’s in – “ was all Sawamura could say, admitting to himself that he got injured seemed difficult.

The southpaw pitcher turned quiet again for the entire time that they were in the taxi. Yuuki and Chris decided not to say anything and just observed Sawamura while on the way to the hospital.

It took less than ten minutes to arrive at the hospital. The doctor took a look at Sawamura’s injury with a serious face, unable to comprehend how an adult could inflict such injury to a high school boy as the southpaw pitcher together with Chris explained how he got the bruise.

Before speaking, the doctor removed his glasses as he took a deep breath.

“Fortunately, Sawamura-kun’s injury is not that serious. It’s just a mild bruising. He can go back to pitching again once he’s no longer feeling any pain. But you need to rest for two days to prevent further damage and do some icing for around 20 minutes every two hours within those two days,” the doctor explained to Sawamura as soon as Yuuki and Kuramochi joined them.

“However, if you will still feel some pain or some slight discomfort when pitching after two days, I suggest you must limit yourself to some light physical activities only. Do not be reckless by forcing yourself. You’re lucky it wasn’t anything serious. But if you will not let it heal fully, it might result in something more dangerous. Do you understand me, Sawamura-kun?” asked the doctor as he patted the young boy’s shoulder.

“Yes, sir! I fully understand. I will make sure to rest properly so I can heal fully in time before our matches started!” Sawamura responded enthusiastically, his eyes fully determined not to be a burden to his team.

His teammate could only look at their southpaw pitcher with a smile.

Miyuki and the rest already arrived at Seidou and had explained to the coaches and Takashima what happened. According to Kuramochi, who received a message from Miyuki, Takashima will be joining them so she can handle the paperwork with the hospital.

The doctor called for a nurse so she could wrap Sawamura’s injury with a clean bandage. Chris, Yuuki, and Kuramochi were advised to wait outside the room as they patched up the young boy. While waiting for Sawamura, they were also waiting silently for Takashima’s arrival.

Before Sawamura finished, Takashima arrived with some papers in her hand.

“Chris, how’s Sawamura-kun?” asked the bespectacled woman.

“It’s nothing serious. But he needs a few days to rest so can heal fully. He’s being tended by the nurse inside. I think it’ll be done in a few minutes,” Chris explained with a smile.

Takashima sighed deeply as she fixed her glasses up her nose. When she heard what happened to Sawamura back at Seidou, she almost wanted to go to his side as soon as she heard that Sawamura got injured without even asking the details and the hospital he was sent to. As the one who recruited the southpaw pitcher, she’s responsible for Sawamura’s well-being for as long as he’s living within the walls of Seidou.

Before Takashima could say another word, the door burst open with Sawamura walking happily as if nothing happened to him.

“Oh! Takashima-san! What’re you doing here? Did you come to visit me because you’re worried about me? Hahaha! Just kidding,” Sawamura spoke with delight upon seeing the assistant manager of Seidou.

“Isn’t it obvious that I was worried about you, Sawamura-kun?” Takashima responded with a serious tone, not batting an eye as she looked straight at the boy.

Sawamura couldn't help but blush at the assistant manager’s words.

“It’s a good thing that you were not seriously injured, but that doesn’t mean I have to let it slide. As the assistant manager of Seidou and the person who invited you to our school, it is part of my responsibility to keep you safe. I’ll have a word with your doctor and finish the paper works here. I’ll be the one to inform your parents about what happened to you. For now, please go back to the dorm and rest well,” Takashima added when she noticed that the boy turned silent upon hearing her first statement.

The boy was totally surprised at what Takashima had said especially the last part.

“Uhm…” the southpaw pitcher started while scratching his head but looking on the ground. “About my parents, would it be alright if you won’t say anything to them regarding this? I just don’t want them to be worrying about me. It’s nothing serious and I promise I won’t force myself or anything.”

Takashima could only sigh at the boy’s request.

“Sawamura-kun,” Takashima responded at the boy who still couldn't look her in the eye. “I understand where you’re coming from. But as someone responsible for you while you’re here in Tokyo, I must let your parents know your situation. They have the right to know.”

The three senpais couldn't help but feel bad for Sawamura. Knowing the pitcher, he didn’t want anyone making a fuss over what happened to him. Takashima couldn't help but felt bad about the boy’s expression as well upon hearing what she just said. She felt like giving Sawamura some sort of compromise. It must be very frustrating for the southpaw pitcher that he had to take a rest for a few days with Koshien just a few days ahead. Not to mention, he had to deal with all the worries that the people surrounding him had to throw at him.

“I’ll tell them what happened. But I will inform them that you are doing fine and recovering without any issues,” said Takashima as she patted Sawamura’s shoulder. “But you have to promise me that you will obey all the doctor’s advice. Do you understand?”

The boy’s face suddenly lit up upon hearing Takashima’s words.

“Yes, ma’am! I will follow all the instructions provided to me by the doctor without fail!” Sawamura replied as he saluted towards Takashima.

“That’s good to hear. Don’t push yourself, okay?”

Takashima looked this time towards Chris, Yuuki, and Kuramochi.

“Please take care of Sawamura for me. I’ll go back to Seidou once I’m done here.”

“Of course, leave the idiot ace on our hands!” Kuramochi replied enthusiastically as he locked the boy’s head in his arms.

“Kuramochi-senpai! That hurts!”

Chris and Yuuki smiled slightly upon seeing their underclassmen bickering at each other. At least for now, Sawamura had returned to his usual self. They exited the hospital as Yuuki called for a taxi and arrived at Seidou within ten minutes of travel.

An hour ago, upon Miyuki and his company’s arrival, they did not waste any second as they proceeded towards the coach’s office. They asked Haruno to explain the whole incident before they arrived at the scene to the coaches and Takashima. Also, the fact that the persons involved happen to be baseball players of a certain university.

Miyuki had deeply emphasized that the players had to be punished rightfully so such things will not happen again and that he would not allow this incident to be ignored or taken lightly seeing how one of his teammates got injured. Tanba, Miyauchi, and Masuko looked at him with admiration as he spoke like a real captain in front of the coaches.

Even Coach Kataoka was a bit surprised by Miyuki’s statement. Back when he was injured by another player, he just took it lightly and even hid the fact that he was injured. But for Miyuki, it’s a different story if it’s his teammate who will be at the receiving end.

“I understand. I will arrange a meeting with the coaching staff of A university. As the captain, feel free to join us, Miyuki.” Coach Kataoka responded after pondering for a second on Haruno and Miyuki’s statement. “Takashima, please confirm with them the address of the hospital and check Sawamura’s condition.”

Takashima agreed without any questions asked. They can see that the assistant manager was quite shaken by the news but did her best not to show it to anyone. As soon as she left the office, Kataoka and Ochiai discussed the possibility that they might have to play at the Kōshien without their ace if things turned out for the worst.

Miyuki couldn't help but frown at the statement as he clenched his fist tightly. Tanba noticed the catcher’s reaction.

“Miyuki,” Tanba spoke as he placed his hand on his shoulder. “It’ll only happen if Sawamura was seriously injured. We prevented the worst from happening the moment we noticed his injury and had it checked on the hospital. Judging from Sawamura’s condition before we left him, he seemed fine. Let’s just hope that it isn’t anything serious.”

Miyuki was still silent while Miyauchi only flared his nostril as a sign that he agreed to Tanba’s statement. Masuko, on the other hand, whispered ‘Uga’ in an attempt to agree with what Tanda had said.

Coach Ochiai asked everyone if they need to let the others know about what happened. There was silence in the room when Haruno decided to say something.

“Uhm… I’m sorry but I think there’s a big possibility that the team already knows. I tried contacting Umemoto-senpai while I was trying to look for someone to help me and left her a message of what happened and that everything’s fine now,” Haruno stated dejectedly.

“Miyuki, Tanba, Miyauchi, Masuko. I’ll leave everything to you to explain the whole matter to the team. Please advise Chris or Kuramochi to inform you as soon as possible of Sawamura’s condition. You may all leave now.”

They all nodded in response as they silently exited the room. But before Haruno could leave, Coach Kataoka suddenly spoke.

“Yoshikawa, don’t blame yourself for this incident. You did well in trying to resolve the issue. I’m just glad that you didn’t get hurt,” Coach Kataoka stated while smiling slightly.

Haruno’s face suddenly lit up as tears appeared in the corner of her eyes.

“Thank you, sir!”

As soon as Miyuki and the rest arrived at the cafeteria, they were met by Umemoto, Fujiwara, Zono, Nabe, and Ryousuke, who just arrived at Seidou. Umemoto and Fujiwara walked towards Haruno and hugged her tightly.

“I’m so sorry, Haruno! I wasn’t able to answer your call immediately! Are you okay? Did they hurt you? You must have been scared,” Umemoto uttered while still locking Haruno in a tight embrace while ruffling her hair.

“I’m sorry I got you worried, but I’m fine now because Sawamura-kun protected me,” Haruno responded, trying her best not to cry in front of her senpais.

“I’m just glad you’re not hurt at all, Haruno,” Fujiwara said while smiling.

“What about Sawamura? Is he okay??” Zono asked impatiently as he looked at Miyuki.

“We don’t know yet,” Miyuki replied in a calm but cold voice. “Chris-senpai and Tetsu-san accompanied him but we haven’t heard any news from them yet. I already sent Kuramochi a message to call us as soon as possible once they know Sawamura’s condition.”

“I see. It can’t be helped then. All we can do for now is wait and hope that Sawamura will be fine. For now, let’s go back inside. All the members were dying to know what exactly happened,” Nabe said gently as he motioned Miyuki and the rest to go inside the cafeteria.

Upon entering, all eyes were gathered towards them. They needed to know what happened. They needed to know if their ace was doing fine.

It took about five minutes for Miyuki to explain the whole incident and what the coach’s next actions would be. The whole team turned silent. Miyuki had mentioned that they have yet to receive news regarding their southpaw pitcher. The first years and second years were especially worried while the third years were surprised. They couldn’t imagine the current Seidou team without their ace pitcher. They knew first-hand how big Sawamura’s presence is on and off the mound. He is, after all, their ever brightly shining sun.

Miyuki’s phone vibrated in his pocket as he reached through it without hesitation. His face turned bright upon seeing the shortstop’s message.

<<Our idiot is fine. He just needs to rest for two days and he can go back to pitching again. Tell the others not to worry too much.>>

Seeing as Miyuki has no intention to read the message out loud, Zono snatched the phone while Umemoto, Tanba, Masuko, and Miyauchi leaned towards him to check Miyuki’s phone as well.

“Sawamura will be fine. He just needs to rest for two days. The best we can do for him is to focus on our batting and score as much as we can during the matches!” Zono bellowed after reading Kuramochi’s message.

The whole team shouted in response as if they won a game.

As expected of our Ace!

That’s Sawamura for you! It’ll take a thousand beating for him to go down!

Ahh! I’m just glad Sawamura-senpai is fine!

The baseball idiots started talking enthusiastically with one another as soon as they heard the news from Zono, while some others proceeded with talking to the Seidou alumni. Miyuki, on the other hand, silently exited the room as he went to the vending machine. Ryousuke, being the observant senpai, noticed Miyuki’s behavior and followed him silently.

After depositing a few coins on the machine, Miyuki picked up the coffee on the slot, opened it carefully, and took a sip. And then, as if being released from a tense situation, he felt himself relaxing and sighing a deep relief.

“Hoh… That is one big sigh of relief coming from you,” Ryousuke spoke softly as he tried to take a look at the catcher’s expression. “You must have been really worried for Sawamura if you’re reacting like that, Miyuki-chan.”

And of course, it had to be the last person he wants him to see him like this that has to witness his reaction.

“Of course, I’d be worried. I’m the captain and the main catcher after all,” Miyuki smirked to hide his expression.

“Hmm…” Ryousuke responded, still looking at Miyuki’s face so intently as if trying to break down the current captain’s façade. “Whatever you say then.”

Fortunately, the older did not press any further. He knew that the captain was bad when it comes to showing his true emotions. And since this has been a very long day, and hasn’t ended yet, he decided to let the younger go.

“In any case, I’m relieved to know that Sawamura is fine. He’d been through a lot already. He had to face a lot of obstacles just so he can become the ace of this team. And the thought of him not being able to play at the Kōshien just because of some bastards that tried to hurt him pissed the hell out of me,” Ryousuke stated in a calm tone. “Right? Miyuki-chan?”

“H-Huh? Well, yeah. I guess you’re right, Ryou-san,” Miyuki responded hesitantly.

“Did I read your expressions right?” Ryousuke asked as he faced Miyuki.

Miyuki just turned silent, not knowing how to react. He’s always had a hard time reading what’s going on with his mind. But he had this feeling that the pink-haired upperclassman can see through him which made him want to avoid Ryousuke for as long as he can.

“Now, now. No need to be so defensive. I just tried reading your thoughts and said it out loud so you don’t have to say it yourself,” Ryousuke added upon noticing Miyuki’s reaction. “If anything, you should be thanking me.”

Ryousuke smiled unwittingly while Miyuki chuckled as soon as he understood his senpai’s intention.

“I really am no match against you, Ryou-san,” Miyuki replied, still laughing.

“Of course, you’re not,” Ryousuke agreed with a smug on his face to which Miyuki laughed some more.

The two of them talked for a while before returning to the cafeteria where the party will take place as soon as the remaining Seidou members arrived.

Upon receiving another message from Kuramochi that they will be arriving in a few minutes, Miyuki decided to wait at the Seidou’s dorm entrance. Ryousuke, Zono, and Nabe volunteered to come as well. Kuramochi was the first one to exit the taxi, followed by Yuuki and Chris, and lastly, Sawamura.

When the injured boy noticed Miyuki, Zono, and Nabe, he couldn't help but feel anxious. He didn’t want anyone to be worried about him after all. But despite that, he faced his senpais with a big smile on his face.

“Cap, Zono-senpai, Nabe-senpai! You waited for me to arrive! How thoughtful of you! This lowly ace of yours will never forget this moment for the rest of my life,” Sawamura roared eagerly.

“Well, at least, you’re still as noisy as ever,” Nabe commented after hearing Sawamura’s loud voice.

“Let’s go, Sawamura! We can’t start the party without the ace,” Zono added as he threw his arm on the pitcher’s shoulder.

Nabe and Yuuki followed the two as they listened to them talk about food.

Miyuki tried to talk separately to Kuramochi and Chris. He wanted to know more details on what happened in the hospital. Chris was more than happy to share what the doctor had advised.

“Two days, huh?” Miyuki whispered as soon as Chris was done talking.

“It’ll be alright, Miyuki. We just need to make sure that he’ll rest properly for the next two days. We can’t afford to lose him during the Kōshien,” Kuramochi said while looking carefully at his captain’s expression.

“You do know that I taught him how he needs to be careful with his body, right? We just need to trust him on this, Miyuki,” added Chris upon noticing how concerned Miyuki was towards the pitcher.

As soon as they arrived at the cafeteria, almost everyone was doting on Sawamura, asking him lots of questions and all the details of what happened. Luckily, the coaches already arrived. They checked on Sawamura first while Chris explained the doctor’s advice on his behalf. Before ending the conversation, Coach Kataoka called Higashio and Kudou.

“I’ll leave Sawamura on your hands for the next two days. Please assist him in icing his injury and make sure he will not do any physical activities as he tries to recuperate,” Coach Kataoka instructed.

“Yes, sir!” Higashio and Kudou responded in unison, feeling happy as they were once more given the task to take care of their ace pitcher.

“Higashio-senpai, Kudou-senpai, please take care of me!” Sawamura bowed but slightly winced as he forgot the fact that he was indeed injured.

“Oi, do not move too much! It’s bad for your injury. Geez.” Kudou could only respond as soon as he noticed Sawamura’s pained reaction.

The two upperclassmen designated as Sawamura’s caregiver advised Sawamura to take a sit now so as not to restrain himself. Once Sawamura was settled, Haruichi, Furuya, Kanemaru, Toujou, and Kariba joined him to ask if he’s okay.

“I told you already! I’m doing fine! It just hurts a bit. Don’t even think for a second that you will be the ace now just because I got injured, Furuya! I’ll be back in two days!” Sawamura shouted in response towards his concerned batch mates.

“Being ace aside, I’m just glad you’re not badly injured. I’ll be waiting so make sure to rest properly, Eijun,” Furuya replied calmly to which the rest of his batch mates looked at him surprisingly.

“O-Okay,” Sawamura responded, blushing slightly as he felt that his rival was showing some real concern.

“I’m just a bit disappointed that I didn’t get the chance to accompany you to the hospital. Last time I got injured, you were with me when I had my checkup,” Furuya said indifferently.

“Wha – “ Sawamura started as he blushed more deeply than Furuya’s previous statement. “Then, by all means, you can go with me the day after tomorrow! I need another checkup to confirm if I healed fully.”

Furuya looked at Sawamura like a puppy and just said, “Okay, I will.”

Haruichi and Kariba smiled while looking at the two. Despite being rivals, they can’t deny the fact that they considered each other as friends.

The party lasted for two hours. Takashima had joined halfway and informed Sawamura that his parents were already aware of what happened to him. She advised Sawamura to call them later this evening as they requested. Sawamura agreed.

The alumni had taken the spotlight as everyone gathered around them asking them things about their college activities and the difference between high school and college baseball. Sawamura felt relieved about the fact that everyone seemed focused on their previous upperclassmen. Even the first years couldn't help but be interested in the conversation as they sat near the group.

After a terribly long day, Sawamura couldn't help but feel tired. So as not to disturb the team, he exited the room silently. But by the time he reached the door, Kudou called his attention.

“Sawamura, you must be tired already. You’re going to take a bath after this, right? We’ll assist you in removing your bandage and have it replaced as soon as you’re finished,” Kudou stated with Higashio nodding beside him.

“O-Ohh. Thank you so much, Kudou-senpai, Higashio-senpai!” Sawamura responded.

“No need to thank us every time. We’re just doing what we can do to support you and the whole team,” Higashio added.

Before entering the bath, Kudou and Higashio assisted Sawamura in removing the bandage wrapped around his abdomen. The two helpers couldn't help but feel angry upon seeing the big lump of a bruise on the pitcher’s gut. Luckily, Sawamura was not looking as they tried to hide their immediate reaction.

“Take your time in the bath. Once you’re done, please go to the cafeteria, we’ll place some ice on it first as the doctor advised and then we’ll wrap it with a fresh bandage,” Kudou explained before leaving Sawamura to take a bath by himself.

Before Sawamura could enter the bath, he could hear a group of voices talking to one another. As he slid the door open, he saw Okumura, Seto, Asada, and Kuki taking a bath. They paused their conversation as soon as they saw Sawamura – as soon as they saw his injury. Sawamura immediately covered the bruise on his gut upon seeing his kouhais’ reactions.

“I see, you’ve beaten me to the bath. And here I thought I’d have the place to myself!” Sawamura exclaimed in an attempt to diffuse the sudden tension after his appearance.

The first years did not respond. Sawamura headed straight on the shower first. He could feel the intense gaze being thrown at him by the first years. After taking a shower, he proceeded to the bath to join them.

“Oi. If you guys have something to say, then say it,” Sawamura mentioned as soon as he dipped the lower half of his body on the bath.

“Considering that you still have the energy to argue, I’d take it that you’re doing fine, right, Sawamura-senpai?” Okumura asked, his hazy blue eyes looking straight into the pitcher’s golden eyes.

“Urgh! Every last one of you! You’re all so stubborn! I told you I’m fine already!” Sawamura bellowed while trying not to move too much so he won’t feel any pain.

“Okay. Okay. We understand now, Sawamura-senpai. We just wanted to make sure so please don’t be angry,” Asada interjected between Okumura and Sawamura.

“Well, if you understand, then I guess it’s fine,” Sawamura replied, looking calmer now as he pouted his lips while looking down on the water. “I just hate the fact that everyone’s worried about me. It was just a mild injury, nothing to get all worked up.”

The pitcher’s eyebrows furrowed as he crossed his arms across his chest.

“You just need to rest for two days, Sawamura-senpai. If you will follow the doctor’s advice to a tee, then there’s nothing to worry about,” Okumura spoke upon noticing the ace’s annoyance.

“I-If you want, then we can help you again with your numbers,” Asada volunteered as he remembered their pitching discussion with them as Sawamura tried to come up with an improved pitch back when they were about to play against Sankou.

“Really? You’re going to help me again?” Sawamura beamed in response while seeking approval from all the first years.

Asada, Seto, and Kuki nodded enthusiastically. Their ace pitcher had that kind of effect on people. With just one look on his fiery golden eyes, they couldn't help but agree with the boy’s plea.

“Koushuu will probably be busy in the bullpen, but he’ll drop by every once in a while whenever he can,” Seto added as he slung his arms on his best friend’s shoulder.

Okumura did not respond, but he didn’t disagree either.

“Wah!! I’m blessed to have such wonderful kouhais like you!! Everyone!! Thank you!! I love you all!!” Sawamura shouted as tears flowed in his eyes.

“Sawamura-senpai, please be quiet when you’re in the bath,” Okumura commented upon hearing the pitcher’s wining.

Sawamura and the first years talked about pitching and the numbers as soon as the southpaw pitcher stopped crying until they finished the bath.

While Sawamura and some of the first years were enjoying the bath, most of the Seidou baseball players decided to leave the cafeteria except for the third-years and the alumni who visited to celebrate Seidou’s win. Except for Fujiwara, the remaining former Seidou baseball members decided to sleep at the dorm and just go home early in the morning.

When Higashio and Kudou had arrived in the cafeteria to prepare some icing for Sawamura, they were met by the third-years’ gaze. Needless to say, only an idiot would not get what they wanted to ask.

When Kudou noticed that everyone gathered in the room was already looking at them, he started explaining Sawamura’s condition. Not that he’s a doctor of some sort but he’s at least knowledgeable when it comes to athletes’ injuries.

“Sawamura’s bruise had already started swelling. Most likely, he’ll be feeling some pain until tomorrow. He can still do some light exercises but we’ll make sure he won’t push himself too much. We’ll do the icing regularly as well like what the doctor advised.”

After listening to Kudou, the whole team just went silent. Not too happy about what they’ve heard. Kudou knows that adding his opinion to this whole situation would only leave a bitter taste in his listeners’ mouths but he couldn't help but voice out his thoughts as he clenched his fist, prepared for whatever outcome his words were about to cause.

“To be honest…” Kudou had started, his tone filled with frustration. “When I saw Sawamura’s bruise, I felt angry and frustrated at the same time. He’s always been careful about his physical state. When Furuya and Kawakami got injured, he was the one who carried the whole team through his pitching. He’s probably not complaining about the fact that he had to rest for two days without pitching but he must be upset about it.”

Kudou’s tears were already about to burst from his eyes. He saw first-hand how Sawamura had followed Chris' instructions religiously. He even started doing the exercises that he and Higashio had suggested. Simply speaking, he just couldn't bear seeing Sawamura suffering like that when clearly, the boy deserved much better.

Everyone was still silent. Higashio could only pat him gently on the back as if to tell him that he understood his sentiments.

“I apologize for blurting out my emotions like that,” Kudou spoke as he bowed slightly in front of his teammates.

“Kudou…” Chris decided to break the silence. “I understand what you’re trying to say and I feel your frustrations as well. And it’s perfectly valid that you had to feel that way. And thank you for saying what’s on your mind. Because clearly, everyone here shares the same sentiment as you.”

Chris continued while soliciting approval from the remaining players gathered in the room.

“There’s nothing wrong with what you’ve said, Kudou! Thank you for saying what each of us cannot say out loud. Also, we’ll leave Sawamura to you and Higashio’s care. Of course, we’ll offer whatever help we can. Just feel free to reach out to us,” Zono responded as soon as Chris finished talking.

Kudou wiped his tears and nodded at the team and Higashio smiled at him.

“As for your frustration and anger, our captain here is already doing something about that. So just focus on helping our ace in making a complete recovery because it would be a problem if he won’t,” Kuramochi added.

Miyuki smirked at the vice-captain’s statement. He couldn't wait for the day when they will have the meeting with A university.

“Oi, Miyuki. Your evil aura is oozing out, you know. Just make sure you will not be causing too much trouble to their school. We don’t want you ruining your reputation now that you’re already a graduating student,” Miyauchi declared upon seeing the current captain’s ominous aura.

“What are you saying, Miyauchi-senpai? They’re the ones who started causing trouble to our team. I’m just going to make sure that they pay for the equal amount of headache that they brought us,” Miyuki replied with a terrifying smile.

“I don’t know about Miyauchi, but I certainly support you 100% on whatever you plan to do, Miyuki. Go give them hell,” Ryousuke commented. “Too bad, I can’t join the meeting. Shall I pretend as Haruichi so I can join you in wreaking havoc?”

“Ryou-san! Don’t encourage this guy!” Kuramochi exclaimed upon seeing the two smirking at each other while he locked his arms on the captain’s neck.

The group continued their discussion regarding the incident and what they should demand from the university when Haruichi, Furuya, Kanemaru, and Toujou arrived at the entrance – undecided whether they would enter the room to join the discussion or just go back to their respective rooms.

“Harucchi!” Sawamura called from a distance. “What are you all doing there spacing out? Are you not going to enter?”

The second years were shocked to see Sawamura together with some first years. They’re not sure if the discussion was something that the southpaw pitcher would like to hear. But it was a tad bit late as Sawamura walked towards them and heard some of his upperclassmen talking inside the cafeteria.

“But seriously,” Miyuki interjected. “Although Sawamura’s injury was nothing serious and he still gets to play baseball, we can’t overlook the fact that he had to stop from pitching for the next two days. It is Sawamura we’re talking after all. Who knows how much improvement he can achieve in that short period.”

Nabe couldn’t help but nod with his captain’s statement. He can still remember the time when Sawamura learned changeup overnight. Also, the most recent and improved number 9 and number 11, which helped them defeat Sankou that Sawamura practiced and perfected in just a few days.

“It’s not like I’m letting my emotions speak here. You all know I’m not good with that,” Miyuki continued to which his batch mates agreed without hesitation. “I’m just saying my concerns as the captain of this team. Sawamura is our ace. He lived up to our expectations and proved to us that he is reliable. This is his first time playing at Kōshien as Seidou’s ace and I believe that it will be a very valuable experience for him. And even if he’s not our ace, he’s still an important pitcher of Seidou. What those bastards did to him is not right, and I want them to understand that there are consequences for their actions.”

“To be honest, I was infuriated when I saw that guy holding Sawamura’s arm like he’s ready to break it at any second,” Kuramochi mentioned as he tried to relive what he saw this afternoon. “Sawamura didn’t defend himself because he’s not the type of person who would want to cause pain to other people. That idiot is kind to a fault. If I hadn’t known him for too long, I would have smashed that guy’s face then and there and ruined the kid’s resolve.”

“No need to beat yourself up over what you felt at that time, Kuramochi,” Yuuki spoke gently as he patted his shoulder. “We’re all in the same boat.”

Tanba, Miyauchi, Chris, and Masuko who witnessed the incident as well nodded in agreement with the former captain.

Upon hearing the conversation, Sawamura couldn't help but feel complicated emotions welling up inside him. While he’s a bit happy that his teammates were showing concerns for him, he did not want them to feel negative emotions brought about by the incident. His brows furrowed as he clasped his fist tight.

Haruichi and Okumura noticed the sudden change in Sawamura’s expression. He probably needed to be away in this room so he can collect his thoughts. The young catcher acted fast. He looked at Haruichi and the pink-haired boy nodded in response as if they understood each other without uttering a single word.

“Sawamura-senpai,” Okumura called the confused southpaw pitcher. “Let’s go buy some drinks first. Since you’re injured, I’ll treat you.”

“O-oh. Wolf bo – Okumura-shounen!” Sawamura reacted as Okumura took his arm and pulled him away from the room where their upperclassmen were.

Seto just smiled at his best friend as he understood the boy’s intention. He motioned Asada and Kuki to follow the two. Haruichi, on the other hand, was now racking his brain out and finding a way to diffuse the tension inside the cafeteria before Sawamura and the first years come back.

Can’t be helped. I don’t like it when Eijun-kun is feeling down. I’ll have to use this after all.

Haruichi pulled up his phone from his pocket. He opened his gallery and then opened an image with a group of boys. On the center, there was a brunette being carried by their captain, sleeping. He opened his LINE app and then send the picture to one of the group chats.

“Kominato-san, isn’t that – ?” Toujou asked upon seeing the image and the group chat where he sent it.

“Yep. It’s the picture you took on the night we won against Sankou. I wanted to use it under a different circumstance but,” Haruichi answered with a warm smile. “With how Eijun-kun is acting right now, I guess it can’t be helped. We need his old self back, and fast.”

“Oi, Okumura! You don’t have to pull me. I can walk by myself, you know!” Sawamura whispered to the young catcher, his cheeks slightly blushing as he felt embarrassed being dragged by the first year.

“I apologize. I only pulled you along because I thought your feet were so rooted to the ground you couldn't even move by yourself,” Okumura said, deadpan.

“Seriously, you – “ Sawamura could only sigh at the boy’s expression. “Anyways, you promised to treat me so don’t you go backing down on your own words.”

“It’s not really a promise but, yeah, of course. As I said, it’s my treat, Sawamura-senpai,” Okumura replied.

“Yosh! Thanks Okumura-shounen! You can treat Asada, Seto, and Kuki as well if you feel like it!” Sawamura beamed in response.

“They can buy their own drinks,” Okumura spoke in a cold tone.

“Aww, don’t be so stingy, Koushuu,” Seto said in a teasing manner.

“You’re not even injured, Taku. So why do I have to treat you?” Okumura responded in a serious tone despite his best friend’s teasing.

“Hahaha! You really are good friends, aren’t you? Don’t forget to be friends with Asada and Kuki as well, okay?” Sawamura interjected upon hearing the first years’ conversation.

Sawamura and the first years continued their light conversation. When they arrived at the vending machine, Asada advised the pitcher to take a sit on the bench as they buy his drink.

The pitcher remained quiet as he listened attentively to the first years’ conversation.

“Do you still feel uncomfortable going back to the cafeteria, Sawamura-senpai?” Okumura asked without hesitation.

Sawamura flinched at the first year’s inquiry. They’ve only been a battery for a few months but the catcher seemed to have grasped his pitcher’s personality. Feeling a bit restless at the question, unable to look the catcher in the eye, Sawamura just pouted his lips as he scratched his head.

“How do I say it,” Sawamura started. “I’m happy that they are concerned about me. But I don’t want them feeling so many negative emotions because of what happened. It wasn’t anything serious, really. But considering how all of you are reacting, I can’t even laugh it off so easily now, can I?”

The first years remained silent at the pitcher’s response. Leave it to the pitcher to uplift the team’s morale during the game, but when it comes to uplifting the team where he is particularly concerned, he seems to be having some difficulty.

After a deafening silence, it was broken by Kuki’s voice when he motioned the other guys to take a look at his phone.

“Guys, take a look at this,” Kuki chuckled after seeing the image on one of his group chats on his LINE app.

They all looked at Sawamura awkwardly.

“What? What are you all looking at?” Sawamura exclaimed upon noticing the unnerving look his companions gave him.

The cafeteria was once again filled with noise. Haruichi, Furuya, Kanemaru, and Toujou had already entered as they explained the image that was sent to their LINE group chat.

“Hyahaha! Who took the photo? This is so hilarious!” Kuramochi roared after checking the image on his phone.

“I think it was Toujou,” Shirasu replied to which Kawakami nodded.

“It’s a good picture. I didn’t know you’re already that close, Miyuki-chan. That’s some good battery bonding you have there,” Ryousuke commented while looking at Kuramochi’s phone.

“Ryou-san, that’s so mean!” Kuramochi snorted to which Miyuki felt annoyed.

“Kuramochi, can you shut up for a moment?” Miyuki retorted seeing as the shortstop have no intention of stopping. “You're enjoying this, aren’t you?”

And then the door opened with a bang. The loudmouth pitcher had entered as he searched for his best friend.

“Harucchi! What the hell is this picture?? When was this taken?? I can’t even remember this happening!!” Sawamura shouted as he walked towards Haruichi, his face as red as a tomato.

“Eh? You don’t remember, Eijun-kun?” Haruichi replied with sarcasm.

“Tell me this is not true! Tell me that I didn’t – “ Sawamura paused, unable to describe what he saw in the photo.

“Give it up, Sawamura. The photo is real. Unfortunately, all the witnesses of that scene are all here right now,” Zono replied with dignity as if his statement had helped the pitcher to feel any better.

“Wha – How?? When??” Sawamura asked indignantly, his hands in his head as he tried to remember when the photo was taken.

Tanba, Miyauchi, and Masuko were looking at Kuramochi’s phone while Chris and Yuuki were busy listening to Furuya’s storytelling on what exactly happened on that day.

“You still don’t remember, Sawamura? You were so out of it on the night we won against Sankou. We found you sleeping on the bench in front of the vending machine. We were trying to wake you up but you’re not waking up. Miyuki-senpai volunteered to carry you on his back and you agreed without hesitation,” Kanemaru explained matter-of-factly.

“If I remembered it clearly, it was a special service for our ace,” Toujou added.

Sawamura’s reddened face worsened as if that’s possible.

Unknowingly, Higashio and Kudou were already removing Sawamura’s shirt so they can apply some ice on his injured stomach. They figured it would be proper timing since the rest were busy discussing the photo sent by Haruichi. Fortunately, no one noticed Sawamura’s injury, including himself as Kudou gently covered the area with ice.

“What’s the big deal anyway, Sawamura?” Kuramochi asked after having a good laugh at the catcher and his roommate. “We’re doing this as part of our training. There’s nothing to be embarrassed about. And the captain himself volunteered so there’s nothing wrong with that, right?”

“This and that are two different things, Kuramochi-senpai!” Sawamura snapped. “And besides, was there really a need to take a photo? Why can’t you guys just leave me alone?”

“Don’t be so difficult, Sawamura. You’re the ace, you know we can’t leave you alone,” Miyuki replied with a smirk.

“It’s a good photo, Sawamura. It clearly shows the kind of relationship that your battery with Miyuki has,” Chris added, trying to convince Sawamura not to feel bad about the photo. “Just think of it as your senpais doting at their kouhais. Take a look at this, even Kuramochi and Zono are trying to support you just to make sure you won’t fall.”

Kuramochi just stood speechless while Zono blushed a bit after the older catcher had emphasized their attention towards the southpaw pitcher as indicated in the photo. Miyuki, needless to say, was the first one to laugh.

“O – Okay. If that’s what you say, Shishou. Then I believe you,” Sawamura spoke quietly.

“You really are loved, aren’t you, Sawamura-chan?” Masuko commented, trying to reduce further the pitcher’s receding embarrassment.

“You think so, Masuko-senpai? Why is it that I feel like they’re only making fun of me though?” Sawamura asked as he scratched his head.

“Sawamura, that’s just their way of showing their love,” Miyauchi responded as he flared his nostrils while Tanba nodded in response.

“Well, if you say so,” Sawamura beamed, still slightly blushing. “I don’t have any siblings but, I guess this is how it feels to have a big brother?”

The whole room turned silent upon hearing Sawamura’s comment. All the third years slightly blushing except for Miyuki who’s wearing his typical smile.

“Eh? What’s up with you being quiet? Did I say something wrong?”

“Don’t mind it, Sawamura. They just find you adorable that they turned speechless. And of course, they are like your big brothers, so rely on them for as long as you can,” Yuuki responded with a straight face despite some violent reactions coming from the third-years in the background.

“Leader!” Sawamura cried as tears flow on his face.

After 20 minutes, Kudou and Higashio removed the icing, wiped his body dry, and wrapped his abdomen with a fresh bandage.

“Sawamura, I need you to be honest. Do you feel any pain right now?” Kudou asked.

The room was once again quiet as they wait for the pitcher to respond.

“To be honest, it’s more painful now compared to this afternoon,” Sawamura replied.

“Don’t worry. That’s only expected. It’s better if you take your rest now so you can recover faster. We’ll apply some icing again first thing in the morning, no running on the field for the meantime, you understand?” Kudou instructed as he fixed Sawamura’s shirt.

“Yes, sir!” Sawamura responded.

Seeing as the boy himself looked fine despite the pain, the rest of the team decided not to dwell on it too much.

“Yosh! This time, I’ll be the one to carry you back to your room. Allow me, as the previous captain, to offer my special service to our ace,” Yuuki said with a straight face as he emitted his aura.

“Eh? Leader??”

Before Sawamura could refuse, Higashio and Kudou were already preventing him from standing as Yuuki walked towards him. He ruffled the boy’s hair as if to say it’s totally fine. He sat in front of the pitcher while Chris and Masuko assisted him as he placed himself on the back of their previous captain.

This time, a lot of phones were out, taking videos and photos of what’s about to happen. Chris, Masuko, Miyauchi, Tanba and Ryousuke gathered around Yuuki and Sawamura. This time, the first-string third-years and second-years were observing quietly together with the first-years as they watched their ace being pampered by the Seidou alumni.

“Thank you so much! This humble ace of yours will forever be indebted to the kindness you have offered me!” Sawamura shouted with his left arm locked on Yuuki's left shoulder and his right arm placed on his master’s shoulder.

“You haven’t changed, Sawamura. You’re still a cry baby. Isn’t it about time to grow up now that you’re the ace?” Ryousuke teased the wailing pitcher.

“Uga!”

“Onii-san!! Masuko-senpai!!”

Chris chuckled slightly at Ryousuke’s comment. “Shishou!”

Miyauchi only responded with a slight flare on his nostrils while Tanba smiled awkwardly.

“That’s not true, Ryousuke. Real man cries,” Yuuki argued.

“Leader!! You really are the best!”

Little did the group know, some of the members were silently taking a video of their conversation.

I might have lost my chance by using that photo. But this new material ain’t half bad.

The pink-haired boy thought to himself as he continued recording a video and thinking of the best timing to show the video just so he can embarrass his best friend loud mouth pitcher, once again.