"Naoki, you're up next."
"Yes coach!"
Before he could walk up the stairs to the field, he felt a weight on his left shoulder.
"We're counting on you Naoki."
Naoki stared through his fringe at the muscular figure who was trying to appear stoic. Instead of answering, he turned around and ignored the big fellow, not giving him the satisfaction of an answer.
A few chuckles rang out in the dugout from the usual suspects.
"Look at the crappy Captain, trying to be all cool." Tatsuya said under his breath to Hiroki, his expression the picture of amusement.
"I mean, the guy hasn't had a hit in the past 2 games. Hehehe"
This time, no one joined in on the laughter.
"OOOOOFF"
Once again Tatsuya found himself curled up on the ground, struggling for air.
Instead of rushing to help their downed teammate, the bench turned their attention to the field where the delinquent had returned to the mound.
Despite being down 3-0, the teen's expression seemed… Happy.
