A day-off. Finally.

Since being a Third Year, he rarely had completely no-asterisks-conditions-apply “day-off”, having responsibilities he can’t really abandon left and right. There’s having to take care of the house and planning on getting a part-time job, and then there’s preparing for his university and the basketball team----

He had planned on retiring after the next Inter High, wanting to focus more on his studies and at home because it’s very apparent that his mother needed more help. It’s kind of sad thinking that he can’t play with the team anymore after that-- officially, at least. But he needs to focus on his academics.

He had just finished indulging himself with a purchase of a few of his favourite books-- some of them, surprisingly not related to puns, and Izuki decided to stop by a café. He remembered Riko mentioning it one time, about how it seemed really cute and that she wanted to go there sometime. He had thought, maybe if it really was good, he can suggest Kiyoshi to take her there.

The café was a bit crowded, and there were only a few seats left. He wanted to just leave instead but he couldn’t, aware that there are a few pairs of eyes locked onto him. It’d be too embarrassing to leave now, so he decided to just keep going and ordered a simple, large cup of cappuccino.

Out of the corner of his eyes, he spotted a familiar face. And even though he knew nothing of the other beyond basketball, his face still lit up. It’s kind of getting sad being by himself already, after all. Maybe he can get to know him better this time?

That is, if the other would be alright with it.

Grabbing his order stub, Izuki waltzed over to the other’s table, slowing down a bit when he was almost at earshot.