บท 231: Just Because

The air at Seiryuu High was buzzing with anticipation the next morning. Posters announcing the upcoming Regionals dotted the bulletin boards and hallways. Groups of students clustered together, talking animatedly about the school's chances, the rival teams, and the relentless training the players were putting in. Sota moved through the corridors with an air of quiet focus, but inside, he felt the storm brewing. Between Ayane's sudden reappearance and the pressure of the Regionals, it felt like he was carrying the weight of two worlds.

He made his way to the classroom, sliding into his seat just as the bell rang. Riku was already seated beside him, a mischievous grin spreading across his face.

"You hear the latest?" Riku whispered.

"No," Sota replied, disinterested.

Riku leaned closer. "Apparently, the whole school's talking about Ayane joining the flag football team. Word is she's applied to be a manager."