Hachiman's POV
Man… this month's been a whirlwind. What, details? It's just a lot, okay? Since the Japan Cup, the teachers visited the academy, Air Groove found my hate mail and cried, we had that photoshoot right before race week, and the magazine caused a campus uproar… I'm exhausted, sensei. How's it going over there? Can I swing by for some peace and quiet?
Last week's Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes ended with Fuji's win—three lengths ahead of the runner-up. A huge victory. She's a shoo-in for Most Outstanding Junior Uma Musume now. Her inside track strategy was flawless, setting her up for a strong classic season.
Air Groove's in prep mode for the Arima Kinen. We're avoiding overexertion or injuries. The only worry? It's her first time at Nakayama's racecourse, and it's her first long-distance race. That final straight's brutal slope will test her stamina. Honestly, I'm pretty anxious.
"Haa… What a mess…" I sighed.
"Hey, trainer!" a voice called. "What're you doing in the kitchen? Cooking up something tasty? Is it a party?"
"It's a victory celebration for my girls," I said. "Fuji won the Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes, a G1, so we're having a little bash."
"Nice, but you sure about this? Won't other Uma Musume crash it?"
"Oh, yeah," I said. "That's why I made extra. Black-hole stomachs, dam-like appetites, meat lovers, and the gobble-queen will definitely show up begging. I'm going all out. The finished dishes are in the warmer, so they're fresh."
"And if no one comes?" they asked.
"I'll flaunt it while eating tomorrow," I smirked.
"You've got some nerve, trainer."
It's fine. Next week's Christmas, and I thought about waiting, but Fuji's big win deserves this. I didn't do anything for Air Groove's wins, so she might give me an earful…
Hours Later
Air Groove: "Hachiman, I'm here."
"Hey, Air Groove, good work," I said. "Rested up okay?"
Air Groove: "Yes, fully. Back to training tomorrow—counting on you."
"Got it," I said. "Where's Fuji?"
Air Groove: "Probably swarmed by underclassmen. She's a star, especially after that magazine. Her popularity's skyrocketed."
"Seems like it," I said. "She'll show up eventually."
Air Groove: "The food's ready, right? I'll help carry it."
"Appreciate it," I said.
Air Groove's softened so much. They say a beautiful rose has thorns, but where are hers?
"They sure look good together!" someone piped up. "Saw it in the magazine, but you two are in sync!"
"Three years together does that," I said.
"Nah, that teamwork? You looked like a married couple!"
Air Groove: "M-M-Mmarried couple!?"
"What, you aiming for that?" they teased.
Air Groove: "N-No, it's… uh…" ///
"Hey, ease up on my Uma Musume," I said. "She's got a big G1 this week."
"Sorry, sorry," they laughed.
Air Groove: "M-Married… Me and Hachiman… Not bad…" Mumble mumble
"Oi, you okay?" I asked.
Air Groove: "! N-Nothing! Let's move this food!"
"…Alright," I said.
Minutes Later
Fuji: "Hachiman-trainer, Air Groove, sorry I'm late! The underclassmen wouldn't let me go… Huh? What's all this food?"
"Fuji, it's your victory party," I said.
Fuji: "For me?"
Air Groove: "You won the Asahi Hai Futurity Stakes. Of course. All handmade by Hachiman."
Fuji: "…"
"Air Groove's got the Arima Kinen soon, but today's a free-for-all," I said. "It's a rest day, so eat up and relax."
Fuji: "I'm so happy… Thank you, Hachiman-trainer♪"
With both seated, I gave a toast, and we dug in.
Fuji: "Mmm♪ Your cooking's the best, Hachiman-trainer! I can't stop eating♪"
Air Groove: "Indeed. A man who can cook like this is rare—especially at this level."
"Thanks to my sensei," I said. "Hey, Air Groove, do other students come here around now? I'm betting a few will show."
Air Groove: "The student council uses this place for late-night snacks, though not often. But with year-end work piling up, it's busier. Oguri Cap and Special Week are regulars. Where do they even put all that food?"
"No kidding," I said. "They'll probably show. Rudolf too, so… three confirmed?"
Fuji: "Oh, Hachiman-trainer, doesn't Rice Shower eat a lot too? I heard she's one of your favorites."
"Favorite, huh?" I said. "Not entirely wrong. Should I invite her?"
Air Groove: "Anyone not lured by your cooking would be the odd one out."
"Alright, I'll call her," I said. "Haven't talked to Rice lately—good chance."
Fuji: "What about CB-senpai? Should I invite her?"
"Sure, go for it," I said. "She's been helping with your training."
Fuji: "Got it!"
Air Groove: "It's turning into quite the crowd."
"Once in a while, it's fine," I said. "Just once in a while."
Afterword
Fuji's first victory celebration is a heartfelt feast, as you noted, with Hachiman cooking up a storm and Air Groove's turn looming! The Yahari crossover fuels the warm banter and magazine teasing, setting a cozy stage before Air Groove's Arima Kinen.
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