#ohtani fic | Explore Tumblr posts and blogs

mandyarin · 11 months ago

Text

Spring has come to me

Shohei Ohtani x Reader (female pronouns)

Synopsis: A story of love between the team physician and the superstar of the team.

Author's note: Hey y'all this is my first ever fic! I have been reading fics since forever and have been contemplating on making my own for the longest time and well my first piece is dedicated to Shohei Ohtani, since not much people write for this talented gorgeous man, I figured why not. Feedbacks are highly appreciated, altho pls don't be mean :< i didn't check for grammar or punctuation mistakes so I'm sorry for dat :>> there might also be some mistakes abt team technicalities and dynamics sooo :3

Working as part of the Dodgers' medical team was not really the dream but the opportunity was dropped into your lap and you'd be a fool not to take it. Spring training has started but not everyone on the team has been on the field as consistently as the star player of the team, Shohei Ohtani. Without fail he has been on the stadium even before beginning spring training. As part of the medical team you have been corresponding closely with the rehabilitation personnel that works closely with the players, most notably Shohei. It was slightly different from working in a hospital but certainly a lot less work and stress. Although the higher ups breathing down your neck making sure the star was going to be alright might be causing you a headache. You weren't much for baseball or sports in general, what with being an over achiever who seeks validation through academics, never having much extra curricular unless it involves the academe, despite that though, you have certainly heard of the name Shohei Ohtani and the ripples of his achievements.

You were at your office, contemplating the best course of care to be administered to common baseball injuries and rehabilitation, personalized treatment, the best apparatus to use. Your mind running through every possible scenario and making contingency plan for each. Not only is your skill and credibility as a professional on the line but also a player's professional career. Everything has to be perfect. Nothing more, nothing less.

A knock came through the door, "Come in" you called.

"Hey would you like to meet the players? They're out on the field right now, I figured we introduce you", Called out a staff member as he entered through the door.

"Yeah, sure. Let me just save this and I'll be right out."

There wasn't much distance to walk out on the field, you see the long stretch of players talking amongst themselves, stretching, checking out their equipments.

"Alright, everyone listen up. This is the new team physician joining us this season. She will be corresponding with the medical staff and personnel in ensuring the best care and treatment for every single one of you. She is one of the best in orthopedics. I expect that you guys will heed her advices regarding to your health." The team manager gathered everyone near him and had me introduce myself to everyone present.

Everyone had the opportunity to introduce themselves, accompanied by a handshake. Soon it was the superstar's turn. A hand that shook yours in greeting, dwarfing it in his roughed up hand. He gave you a smile that reached his eyes, you like his eyes, you decide. Like crescent moons as he gives a slight chuckle.

It wasn't all that hard to get occupied with Shohei's matters, you had to correspond with his surgeon about his recent surgery, you had to be in constant communication with the physical therapist in charge of him and you had to plan and administer the best care for his current state. One might say that you are too focused on him despite being the team physician but that is just the effect of having a $700 million player in your care. Not a thing spared if it's for his well-being. Besides he's the only player in the current roster with the most recent surgery done and you'll be damned if he's not good to go when the season starts.

Being in close proximity with him made you realize things about him. The talent he has and the grit he puts in everything he does on the field makes him the amazing player that he is, you have not seen someone as dedicated as he was in their craft. He's meticulous in his actions, moves with intention. Careful and purposeful. When he is off the zone, his laughter rings, albeit like a hyena. Wide smiles and the carefree way he carries himself. So carefree but so sure. You have never seen him look like he was out of place in his new team. He always looked like he belonged where he is, wherever might that be. An energy so magnetic but the type of magnetism that pulls you in slowly, carefully, like a smooth caress and then when you least expect it you were pulled into his orbit and you were none the wiser.

It started when he would be in your space. Rushing towards you as he finishes his set, like he has a special radar that is exclusively for you. Whether you're observing him or the other players or talking to other staff members. Nothing will stop him from going to you. Smiling down at you with a boyish smile, engaging you in conversations like "What have you been up to?", "Are you here to supervise?", "Are you here to see me?", "I'm gonna practice my batting today, can you check my form?". It flustered you at first but it has been such a common occurence that it has failed to phase you anymore.

Then, he would message you outside working hours. Sending pictures and videos of his adventures with Dekopin, fully taking advantage at the fact that you are weak for cute animals. You guys would talk about the everyday mundane things like the weather, food, hobbies and many other things. Then came more personal questions that dug deeper to reveal more of each other. A peek inside this amazing athlete, the person inside. Grasping the melancholy he feels, the little joys in his days, the trepidation that tomorrow brings, the pressure of the pedestal that he was put on. He seemed a little more human, a little more relatable. A little more like a boy who dreamed big and is now living it but still grasping at what was lost.

Then came the invites. Inviting you outside working hours for food, hanging out at his home, tagging along at Dekopin's vet appointments and anywhere else you could think of. Of course, there is definetely skepticisms and wariness with all these invites. He was a man who has his whole country watching him through the media's lenses, whether it be from reputable sources or the tabloids. For him to be seen with a woman was a sentence. Sentenced to be lump into rumors and gossips. The man of the hour and his partner. It was a headline just waiting to happen. But you reasoned with yourself. Surely they are aware that you are one of the team physicians, right? Surely they'll think it's just an appointment outside working hours, a bit unconventional but people wouldn't think you guys are together, right? Right. No one will think so. You were just a team doctor hanging out with one of your team's player, nothing more. You said in your head like a mantra, as you accept his offers to go out. Truly hoping for it to be the case.

The realization came to you on a quiet night. You didn't mind the closeness of Shohei, you didn't mind that he would come running to you whenever he sees you, in fact you enjoyed seeing him jog to you and grace you with that ever so handsome smile of his. He fills your head with mindless ramblings and chats, you think you would hate it since you have learned to value silence as your companion but you found out you didn't. His voice and presence now accompanies you too. You found that you didn't mind being linked to him. You didn't mind if your face or name will be plastered on a headline on Japanese newspapers or tabloids by tomorrow. You didn't mind people writing about you and your relationship. It really doesn't matter. What matters is if he is happy, it matters if he is comfortable with you accompanying him to whatever and wherever and well, he is happy, he is comfortable. What matters is that you love him. You have learned that Shohei has wormed his way to your heart slowly but surely and he is there to stay, taking hold of a chunk of your heart. Ready to hold his hand tightly and face the world. Courageously love and be loved.

Shohei was intrigued by you, you were young, the youngest physician he has seen on the team and yet you managed to be one of the best orthopedic in the country and landing a job at Dodgers, well he might have also been struck by your outwardly appearance and honestly he isn't shy to admit that. You are beautiful.

You are a constant presence in his training, checking up on him and the others, taking special care of him and his recent surgery. He noticed how you're a little stoic, maintaining that air of professionalism like an armor, your brilliance showing through the improved physical care of the players and everyone surely took notice of it. But you were also coy, giving him small smiles or chuckles when he finds courage to talk to you or when you're assisting him on his rehab exercises, putting slight pressure on his forearms and chest, eyes shyly meeting his. It never fails to makes his heart flutter like a teenager.

You had a strong wall built around you, from past hurt, perhaps? He doesn't know but he vowed to himself that he will do anything to break it down or climb his way up over to you. Meticulously planning everything to give his heart and to have yours.

Shohei figures that you love cute and loveable things and he thinks Dekopin could be the best wingman for the job. He was cute and loveable, the perfect tool, the perfect excuse to message you. He knows you couldn't resist and from then on he would talk and talk until you'd answer, he didn't mind waiting he knows you're busy and he knows you might not be used to it. It's okay he'll glady start the conversation if it means getting to talk to you. He's patient and he will wait until you come around. The conversations turn personal at one point and he saw a little more of you. The anxious, perfectionist that is a tad bit hard on herself. A tortured genius, if you will. He can sympathize with you in that regard, with both being young people on such peaks of successes, people from your respective fields waiting on your next moves, ready to pounce when the chance arises. It's exhausting but he figured he wouldn't mind being exhausted together.

Shohei knows he's always being watched, he knows paparazzi are lurking at corners near the stadium, near his home, and wherever places he frequents to. He admits it is a little selfish of him to invite you to his home, or wherever outside work. He knows there is a big possibility of getting caught and photographed but he couldn't give a damn. He doesn't care if people speculates about his romantic life if it is with you. He doesn't mind giving out a statement that you and him are at a stage of getting to know each other. He doesn't mind declaring to the world that he only has eyes for you. He knows he's selfish, the press might hound you and pick you apart so he's careful when inviting you out. Always at odd hours, using an unusual and discreet car, making sure to cover your face when arriving and leaving his home. Yes, he is selfish but he is not to put you in any kind of pressure and danger. He cares about you too much to be too selfish.

On a perfect breezy midnight of spring he received a call from you, asking him if he was awake. His heart quickens, mouth dries a little, he answered you "Yes", with a light waver in his voice.

"Alright, wait for me, I'm coming over."

"Okay, I'll be waiting for you. Be safe."

His heart stutters in his chest, you have never called him first, never initiated on coming to his house, he was a little scared but your voice seems resolute like there is something that has to be done and he hopes deep deep in his heart that it is what he think it is.

You came knocking on his door after a few minutes and Shohei almost falls over trying to get to the door to get you. And there you were in your full glory, a little disheveled in your most comfortable sweater and sweats. The breeze caressing your hair, your skin. Shohei can't believe that he starts to get a little jealous of the way the breeze kisses you and be so upclose to you. You also take him in, in his loungewear shorts and thin sweatshirt, tousled hair and a slight pink tint to his full cheeks.

"May I come in?"

He's stunned for a little bit then clears his throat and replies, "Of course, come on in. Don't mind the mess Dekopin just destroyed another one of his toys".

As you guys shuffled inside his home, the air stills and there's an undeniable tension between the two of you. Shyly meeting each other's gaze for a minute and like magnets you draw towards each other. Timidly, you put your hands against Shohei's chest, both your hearts jumping out of your ribcages at the action.

"Is this okay?", you asked looking up at him through your eyelashes. Eyes flitting between his eyes and his lips. Shohei noticed the action and wrapped his arms around your torso, bringing you impossibly closer to him, he needs to feel you, he needs to feel your skin on his, your breath on his skin, your lips on his.

"Yes", he replied as he carefully places one of his hand on the back of your head. Slowly inching towards your lips.

"Is this also okay?", he asked lips almost touching yours as he spoke. You didn't waste your time and finally have your lips meet in a sweet embrace that slowly deepened into a dance of lips flitting at each other. The kiss was sweet and sensual, just like him, you think. The kiss was everything the both of you have hoped for. A kiss that says everything and a kiss that seals everything. You finally break away from each other to catch your breath, but lips still touching each other, exhanging breathes, panting on each other's lips.

"Thank you for being patient with me. I love you." You said to him, lips touching his as you speak. He gives you a long peck.

"I'll be here always waiting for you, I love you too. I love you." He utters to you sweetly, saying the last part in his native tongue. Conveying all the love he has in those words. He hopes that you can feel his sincerity, if not then he'll just have to show it to you every time until you can feel it.

Truly, spring has come and bloomed love both to you and Shohei.

A/N: I've been inspired by what the phrase "Spring has come" mean to both Korean and Japanese language ik its not yet spring but yeah I just rlly wanted to write about this. Hope you guys enjoyed it <3

#shohei ohtani #shohei ohtani x reader #ohtani shohei #shohei ohtani imagines #mlb imagines

261 notes · View notes

lifeofpriya · 1 year ago

Text

Longing - Shohei Ohtani imagine

[gif credit goes to @shoshohtani]

song of the fic: Pasoori by Shae Gill and Ali Sethi

You wake up in your small apartment each morning, making coffee and breakfast before heading to work. The days blend into a monotonous routine, leaving you feeling unfulfilled and lonely. Your evenings are spent in solitude, indulging in frozen meals and binge-watching TV shows. Deep down, you yearn for something more meaningful in your life.

One fateful evening, you decide to step out of your comfort zone and attend a local baseball game. As you settle into your seat, the excitement in the air is palpable. The crowd enthusiastically roars as the star player, Shohei Ohtani, takes the field. You've heard about his incredible skills and record-breaking performances, but seeing him in action leaves you in awe.

Intrigued by Shohei's talent and charisma, you find yourself captivated by his every move. His powerful swings and precise pitches leave you spellbound, and you begin following his games religiously. One day, fate smiles upon you as you spot him at a coffee shop before a game. Summoning your courage, you approach him and strike up a conversation. To your surprise, he is warm and approachable, and you instantly feel a connection.

As the weeks pass, you continue to attend Shohei's games, but your thoughts extend beyond his athletic prowess. You imagine spending time with him outside the ballpark, sharing laughter and creating memories. Encouraged by your growing affection, you take a chance and invite him to dinner. To your delight, he accepts with a smile.

Over shared meals and outings, you discover the depth of Shohei's character. Beyond his athletic achievements, he is compassionate, driven, and shares your longing for connection. Each moment spent together deepens your affection, and it becomes clear that something special is blossoming between you.

However, as the baseball season nears its end, the looming reality of Shohei's return to Japan threatens to dampen your newfound happiness. The uncertainty of the future weighs heavily on your heart, and you dread the possibility of being separated once again. You share a romantic sunset dinner on your last evening together, cherishing every moment. In a tender moment, Shohei promises to come back to you, no matter the distance.

The following months are filled with longing and anticipation as you await Shohei's return. The days seem endless, but your love remains steadfast. Finally, the long-awaited day arrives—the start of a new season. As the game concludes, you find Shohei standing at your doorstep, holding a bouquet of flowers. The joy in both your hearts is palpable, and you know that your love has endured the test of time and distance.

Together again, you compensate for the moments lost, cherishing every second spent in each other's embrace. You support Shohei wholeheartedly as he devotes himself to his baseball career, attending games and offering unwavering encouragement. You provide him solace and a safe haven in the quiet moments, easing his exhaustion and reminding him that his worth extends far beyond the field.

One evening, after a particularly challenging game, you decide to surprise Shohei with a thoughtful date to lift his spirits. You prepare his favorite meal with love and secure tickets to an art exhibit you know he'll appreciate. As you unveil the surprise, a smile lights up his face, and you embark on a night filled with art, laughter, and heartfelt connection. In each other's presence, you find comfort and strength.

As the baseball season progresses and the team advances toward the playoffs, the bond between you and Shohei deepens further. On a chilly October night, amidst the jubilation of a division-winning celebration, Shohei finds you amidst the confetti and cheers. He scoops you up in his arms at that moment, exclaiming, "We did it!" The love in his eyes assures you that no matter the challenges ahead, your hearts have found a home in each other.

Together, you face the uncertainties of life with unwavering devotion. No distance can separate you, for your love transcends borders and oceans. In the embrace of each other's arms, you find the warmth and fulfillment that once eluded you. And as you continue to cheer Shohei on from the stands, you know that the most significant victory is the love you share, a love that knows no boundaries.

#shohei ohtani #shohei ohtani imagine #shohei ohtani imagines #baseball imagine #baseball imagines #baseball blurb #mlb blurb #mlb blurbs #mlb imagines #los angeles angels

82 notes · View notes

minyhung · 1 year ago

Text

Shohei Ohtani as a dad😭🧎🏻‍♀️, need some fics of him fr😭

#shohei ohtani

20 notes · View notes

jackhues · 1 year ago

Text

#sidney crosby #charles leclerc #auston matthews #oscar piastri #shohei ohtani #lewis hamilton #mitch marner #braden schneider #formula one #formula 1 #nhl #nhl hockey #scuderia ferrari #mercedes amg f1 #new york rangers #toronto maple leafs #los angeles angels #mlb baseball

24 notes · View notes

anthrofreshtodeath · 11 months ago

Note

Hey, I really hope this is your Tumblr because otherwise it'd be an awkward coincidence lol.

Just wanted to drop in and let you know that I read both Coronita Heights and You Only Live Twice and I can't put into words how brilliant it was. Lemme preface this by saying I know absolutely nothing about baseball and found myself googling terms, players and even searching for videos to get a visual of the movements described.

And I cried. Your writing was so vivid in my mind and especially in the sequel during the WBC I was up outta my seat and cheering as if I was actually in the stadium. I was tearing up when Jane was talking to those little girls, full on sobbing when the Giants made that montage for her during the final. I felt the passion from each Rizzoli sibling on-pitch moment.

I was looking a fucking Rizzles fanfic like I do every couple years because I miss the ship an unhealthy amount. Instead...I think I'm gonna get into baseball now? I'm mainly into football (soccer?), I rep Chelsea FC and one of our owners also own the Dodgers so I already knew about Ohtani after news of his insane contract dropped but with the interest on that side and now with you roping me into all the baseball nerd analogies, I'll try to learn the game. If your writing can bring out that kind of exhilaration in someone who's never cared for the sport, actually watching a game might give me a heart attack.

TLDR; I loved the series and it's gonna be hard coming to terms with finishing it, but I'm definitely giving it a few months before I reread. I feel like it'd be weird to thank you for your talent but I'm doing it anyway because you're literally insane. Much love, hope life is treating you well.

Hey there! This is my tumblr; you’re in the right place. I haven’t been very active because I am in an extreme book reading hyperfixation that has caused me to forsake the internet and consume The Written Word ™️.

thank you so much for your kindness - it warms my cold heart to hear that my work has brought another spectator to the grand game. That’s all I want, really. More people walking around with a love for baseball. If I never write another fic again, messages like this are enough to convince me the work I’ve done so far meant something.

Go Knights!

#ask anthrofreshtodeath #lauren writes rizzoli and isles fanfiction #coronita heights

8 notes · View notes

leclucklerc · 22 days ago

Text

Against the World SO17 - 03. Music Video

Pairings: Shohei Ohtani x reader

Summary: Y/n is starring in a music video, but a trouble seems to be brewing?

Word Count: 4.4 k

Previous Masterlist Next

That morning, Shohei is already waiting in front of her house with a plastic bag on his arm. The content is so full that it’s practically spilling out of it.

Y/n can’t help the laugh that bubbles out of her as she walks out, keeping her gaze towards the other teen, who is giving her a sheepish grin. It’s a nice sight to see so early in the morning. Of her best friend already standing there, grinning and ready for their daily routine. He’s wearing a shirt with the baseball team logo plastered across his chest and running shorts.

“Have you been waiting long?” she asked, amusement evident in her tone as she stepped out of the gates of her house.

Shohei shook his head, already reaching for her bag as he thrust the plastic bag towards her. “I just got here, and this is for you.”

“Thank you,” she said, taking the plastic bag. As expected, it’s full of chocolate bread. “Not that I’m ungrateful or anything, but this is for?”

“For attending my game,” he answered, already ushering her forward so that they could start their morning jog. “I really like it.”

And well, isn’t that flattering?

All her life, she had not been someone whose presence was wanted by many.

She knows that her mom loves her. That the older woman will absolutely do everything for her sake. But at the same time, she also knows that her presence is ultimately the catalyst of the train of misfortune that befalls her mom’s life. She was the reason why her father left. She was the reason why her mom had to drop out of high school. She was the reason why her mom could barely make it in the job market.

Sometimes, during her frail moments, she likes to think about what her mom would be like if she never fell pregnant with her and how the woman would absolutely thrive in everything that she does. How the tired smile that she always wears in front of y/n will be replaced with a dazzling one, a smile that shows the world her happiness.

It’s a life that is so far away from reality. A faraway life that is full of what-ifs and made-up scenarios.

Her presence is the start of her mom’s downfall. Her presence is so hated by her father to the point the man never even showed up in her life for a full second.

Even as an idol, her presence is not wanted by many. Her fanbase is small and not enthusiastic at all. There were too many broadcasting executives who scoffed at her, chiding her for being a small-time idol with a too-big grin. Even when she danced and sang her out, people stared at her as if she was not there.

To know that there’s someone who’s looking forward to her presence is flattering.

“Maybe,” she said, without even thinking much. Maybe without thinking at all. Lately, if it’s about things related to Shohei, her mind has become a bit muddled. Making her say things that came from her heart, not her brain. “Maybe I can go to more of your baseball games.”

“Really?” asked Shohei, eyes bright – even brighter than the rising sun on the horizon beyond them. Immediately, she could hear the increase in his tone. He’s pleased with the idea. Happy even. “I will really like it if I can see you on the stands.”

Happy, she thought.

He sounds really happy about it.

A horrible feeling settled in her guts, but she still let out a smile. “Yeah,” answered y/n. “If I have the time, I’ll try to attend more of your baseball games.”

Shohei stopped at that, eyes wide. “Promise?” he asked, giving her his pinkie finger.

She stared at it for a few seconds. Thousands of things raced through her mind. Of the baseball game that she attended a few days ago. Of her father playing in the World Series. Of her happiness watching Shohei standing on the mound. Of her sadness and agony at realizing the reality between her and her father.

It’s a loaded promise. Y/n knows. She shouldn’t do it.

And yet, here she is, intertwining her pinkie together with Shohei’s.

“Promise,” she declared. “I’ll attend your games as many times as you want.”

To her, it sounds almost like an empty promise. Something that she’s dreading to fulfill in the future. But at the same time, the sheer happiness that appeared on her best friend’s face almost crushed all of those feelings together.

Y/n knows that Shohei is someone who wears his heart on his sleeves. It’s easy to see what he’s feeling right now, and he had never been someone who suppressed all of those feelings. But to see him like this, eyes crinkling and a large smile spreading across his tanned face, almost made the horrible in her gut vanish.

It’s a silly feeling. Something that she will maybe laugh at in the future.

Oh, she thought. I think I like him more than I thought.

What a realization.

Her manager told her that she was being cast in the boyband music video when y/n was changing for her gym class.

“Seriously?’ she asked in a hushed whisper, adrenaline thrumming down her skin. “Seriously!?”

“Yes,” answered her manager, a bit breathless. She can hear the sound of a keyboard ticking, no doubt already drafting some kind of news coverage or press release from her agency. “I just got the news a few minutes ago, I called you immediately.”

“This is a great news,” she said. “No, this is an amazing news! You said that they have a pretty large fanbase, right? Imagine the exposure-“

“And you will definitely get your name out there,” said her manager. Y/n couldn’t see his face, but she was sure that he was smiling so large right now. “This- this is a good stepping stone, y/n. After your appearance in the music video, I’ll see what commercials or advertisements reached out. “

Y/n gasped at that. “Commercials?” she said, tone excited. “Do you think that it will reach to that point?”

“Yes,” answered the man easily. “I have no doubt that commercials and other similar opportunities will come knocking on our door. Y/n, this is a good opportunity!”

“I know!” she said. “Just- just tell me what to do, yeah? Text me my train tickets to Tokyo and stuff so I can do enough preparation.

“Of course,” said her manager. “I’ll contact you with further details.”

Ending the phone call, y/n really can’t control the face-splitting grin that’s threatening to come out. After all, this is an amazing news. It was her very first serious gig after her hiatus announcement. Appearing in a music video is a huge deal for an unknown idol like her – especially the music video of an already-established boyband.

She knows that there will be some repercussions, considering that the majority of a boyband fanbase hates to see their idols interacting with girls. But still, it will make them talk about y/n. It will make them know her name.

Exposure is exposure, after all, even if it’s a bad one.

Suppressing the giddy feeling, she stepped outside of the bathroom, immediately heading towards the auditorium where the rest of her class was. Ami is the first one to notice her arrival, as the other girl is giving her an enthusiastic wave.

“You were gone for a pretty long time,” she comments as she immediately looped their arm together.

Y/n let out a hum, “My manager just called me.”

“Oh?” said Ami with a raised of her brow. “Is it good news? You look pretty cheery.”

“It’s an amazing news,” she replied with a grin. Y/n mentioned the name of the boyband. “Do you know them?”

With a nod, Ami replied. “Obviously,” she said. “Some of the girls in our class are obsessed with them. I tried to get to know them, but their music doesn’t fit my taste. Their members are good-looking, though.”

Pride surged into her. “I got cast,” she said, voice a bit low so that the only one who could hear her was Ami. “For their next music video.”

Ami let out a huge gasp, so loud that some people near them threw them a couple of glances.

“Really!?” whisper-scream Ami. It’s clear that the girl is excited but, at the same time, trying to lower her voice. “Y/n seriously!?”

“Seriously,” she said, giving her a small thumbs up. “That’s why I was gone for so long. My manager just called me to give me the news.”

“Y/n-chan, that’s amazing!”

The sound of Ami’s outburst managed to gain the attention of the people around them. The two girls can only give them a sheepish smile, silently apologizing, before continuing the conversation in a more hushed tone.

“So?” asked the other girl. “Are you going to Tokyo this weekend?”

“Yeah,” she replied, glancing at her phone. Her manager just texted her that he had booked her a train ticket for Friday evening. “I will have to attend the briefing Friday night before going straight to shooting during the weekend.”

Ami went quiet at that. “So… you’re not attending Ohtani-kun’s match this week?”

Ah, she thought.

Y/n almost forgot about the upcoming baseball match this weekend. The school had been buzzing about it for the past few weeks. After all, the baseball team is the pride and joy of Hanamaki Higashi. All of the team’s achievements are being broadcast to the rest of the student body.

“I don’t think I can do it,” answered y/n. “The match is on… Saturday?”

“Saturday,” confirmed Ami. “If you’re not going, some upperclassmen from the cooking club are going to watch, so I’ll probably tag around them.”

Honestly, she feels guilty. After all, it was only last week that she promised Shohei that she was going to attend his matches.

But it’s not like y/n able to reject this opportunity. After all, this is huge. The biggest one in her career. She doesn’t want to miss this, and even if she wants to, her manager probably will punch her face or something.

Ami, noticing her complex feeling, nudged her shoulder. “You know, you should tell him,” said the girl. “This is the finals of the summer tournament, after all, an important match for the baseball team. I think he will be looking forward to your presence.”

Yes, she thought. She should tell Shohei.

At this, she finally cast her gaze towards the gym. The boys are playing handball with each other. It’s easy to spot Shohei, considering his height and his loud laugh.

It was at that moment, too, that their gaze met.

Shohei immediately waved at her, a bright grin already on his face. Also, smiling at him, she waved back.

It’s better to tell him soon, she thought silently.

The opportunity to tell Shohei that she will not be attending his game comes sooner than expected.

“You’re coming to the game this weekend, right?” asked the boy during lunch the next day.

Y/n stopped eating, and her salad was still mid-chew. Just like usual, they are having their lunch on the school rooftop. She could hear the faint sound of other students playing soccer on the field just beyond them.

It was the relaxing atmosphere that enveloped the both of them that made her let her guard down. That’s why she was a bit startled at the sudden question that Shohei posed to her.

Shohei also seems to notice the slightest twitch of her expression at the mention of the upcoming game this weekend. “It’s the finals of the summer tournament,” he continued as if he didn’t notice the awkward look on her face. “If we win this, the team will be going to Koshien.”

Koshien, she thought. The land of his dreams.

She knows. She knows because the game is probably Shohei’s biggest one yet.

The absolute dream for all high school baseball players, the ultimate dream for every teenager playing baseball, and the initial road to success for every budding baseball star.

Stars are made during Koshien. Legends are made during Koshien.

Her best friend had been babbling about Koshien ever since they became close months ago. She knows that Shohei had always wanted to reach that stage – to achieve his childhood dream of winning the tournament. Y/n knows how important the upcoming matchup is for Shohei.

It’s a bit laughable that she will break their promise so soon after making it.

“Hey,” started y/n, eyes flickering towards her salad. She doesn’t dare to look at him. “Um… I don’t think I can make it.”

There’s silence between the two of them.

Finally, snapping her gaze back towards the boy in front of her, she can see his expression. There’s a frown etching across his face, something that she wants to desperately tug up, replacing it with his sunny smile. His eyebrows are furrowed as he stares at her as if he’s thinking about something.

“Why?” he asked, head tilted. “Are you going to Tokyo?”

“Yes,” she replied. “I have… I have a job there this weekend.”

“A job?”

“I got cast in a music video,” said y/n, a bit rushed, as if she was desperate to explain to him that she had a good reason to miss one of his games. It sounds pathetic – she’s so sure of it. But she’s desperate. “I just got the news yesterday, so I didn’t have the time to tell you yet,” she added for good measure.

Shohei’s eyes widened at that as silence descended upon them for a couple of seconds. “In a music video?” he finally asked, voice a bit breathless and something akin to wonder hinted in his tone. “Like, official music video?”

“Yeah, a boyband,” she said, then she told him the boyband’s name. “Maybe you know them?”

“I know them!” said Shohei all of a sudden, excitement evident in his tone. He even stood up abruptly – almost spilling his lunch during the process - as if he was really surprised. With the way his eyes had widened and the flush spreading across his cheek, it seemed the boy was happy at the news. “And you’re going to star in their music video?”

With a nod, y/n gave him her confirmation. “I am,” she said. “The shooting starts this Friday.”

“I see why you can’t come to the game then,” answered Shohei, finally sitting back in his seat. “That’s so cool; you’re seriously like a celebrity right now!”

She blinked at that, still staring at the teen in front of her.

Shohei continues to talk. “They’re pretty popular, right? I think I heard some of their songs in the locker room! Hey, can I tell my teammates? They won’t believe it!”

It was… odd. He does seem genuinely excited for her, as if y/n didn’t just break their promise.

“Well, I hope the shoot went amazingly!”

Y/n blinked at that once again, still staring at the boy in front of her.

“You’re not mad?”

Shohei cocked an eyebrow at that. “Why should I?” he answered. “I mean, I will never be mad when you’re chasing your dream. The tournament is my way to chase my dream, but if starring in the music video is your way to chase your dream, it will be very ironic for me if I get mad, right?”

And huh, he’s speaking the truth.

For the longest time, y/n had always thought that a relationship was a mutual symbiotic thing. You have to give back when you’re given something.

For the longest time, her relationships had always been like this. In order to have devout fans, she has to maintain the picture-perfect idol image. To maintain her friends – the few that she has – she has to treat them well – too well – in order to repay their time.

The only relationship that she has ever had that is not mutual is her relationship with her mom.

Her mom always gives, gives, and gives. Y/n always tries to desperately give back but seems to always fail.

This relationship between her and Shohei is where there is an easy acceptance between the two of them. Y/n didn’t have to try to please Shohei. She didn’t have to try to become anything else besides herself. She didn’t have to prioritize him or their relationship.

He lets her be her.

He lets her to be y/n l/n. The girl is also chasing her dream, just like him. Just a girl who’s trying to break through the entertainment industry with everything that she has.

Thump

Thumpthumpthump-

A laugh broke out.

Shohei is staring at her with wide eyes, just staring at the girl as she lets out a loud laugh, something that’s echoing throughout the rooftop. This is maybe the most genuine laugh that she has ever let out in years.

This is maybe the most carefree that she had ever felt in years.

“Shohei,” she finally said, mouth grinning so hard it’s hurting a bit. Y/n reached out, holding their hands together and intertwining them together. She could feel the rough texture of his skin and the callouses. A clear evident that he had been practicing hard to reach for his dream.

It’s clear that the boy is a bit surprised at the gesture – y/n had never been someone big on physical contact, after all. “Thank you for your support. I really mean it.”

“Uh- yeah? Sure?” he replied, stammering a bit.

“I’m sorry I can’t come to your game, but you know I will always be thinking about you, right? Wishing you good luck for the game?”

“…” Shohei is staring at her before a squeak escapes his lips. “Of course!” he exclaimed, with the tip of his ears reddening a bit. “I mean- I know you will always support me and stuff!”

It’s cute, she thinks. It’s very cute seeing him this flustered when, usually, it’s her who is being flustered by him.

“Do you want anything from Tokyo?” asked y/n. “As compensation for me not attending your game.”

A thoughtful look passed by on his face.

“… I really can’t think of anything, but-“ he stopped a bit before a shy smile appeared on his lips. “Can I call you when we win the game?”

When.

Not if.

Thump

Thumpthumpthump-

Confident guy, she thought, as a chuckle escaped her lips. Her heart is still erratically beating inside of her, almost making her a bit dizzy with all the blood rushing into her head.

“Of course,” she replied, eyes tender. “I will be waiting for it.”

The music video shooting went amazingly.

Y/n didn’t know what she had expected. Considering that this is a pretty big production for a popular boyband, she thought that the atmosphere would be more tense. More pressure in the air.

In reality, though, the past few days had been really lax. The director had greeted her with a large smile on his face. Even during the shooting, and there were some mistakes or NGs, the director merely laughed it off before continuing the shot. It’s a bit peculiar, but y/n is really grateful – considering how nervous she is during the shooting process.

She has been given a really simple script, and there’s no outrageous demand from the production team. Even the costume that was given to her – a simple uniform look with a dark blazer – is not something that she hates to wear.

Both her manager and the director had praised her performance, and she had taken it like a sponge with water. Overall, her mood had been pretty great during the past few days.

Despite all that, there’s only one thing that’s bothering her throughout the shoot.

“Y/n-chan,” greeted the smiling face of Takahashi Ren, one of the members of the boyband.

She can feel her face twitched at that. Y/n didn’t give him any permission to use her first name. Hell, she’s sure that they shouldn’t drop the formality between them, considering they’re just coworkers.

But this man is persistent.

Ever since she first arrived at the site Friday night, he had been bothering her nonstop.

It started during the script reading. She had introduced herself formally to every member of the crew, and Takahashi-san had piped up, asking if she was half foreign. The nonstop questions started from that. From then on, he keeps asking her things that she’s a bit uncomfortable with, such as if she is single or if she has ever drunk alcohol before.

Besides that, he also requested the director to add some additional scenes with her. It’s highly uncomfortable as he always lingers every time they touch during the scenes. With the director’s lax attitude – or maybe he just doesn’t care all that much – he didn’t even give Takahashi-san a reprimand.

Y/n had tried to be polite – she really does – but still, this man was persistent.

“Takahashi-san,” she replied politely.

The older man let out a laugh at that. “I told you that you can call me Ren, you know!” he said. “Say, where are you going after this?”

At this, y/n throws a discreet glance at her manager. Her manager is also staring at Takahashi-san with some kind of intensity in his eyes.

“I’m going back home to Iwate,” she replied. “I have school tomorrow.”

“Ah yes, school,” said the man. “I forgot that you’re still in high school,” at this, he’s rummaging his pocket for something. “You wanna go out with me after this? We’re going to this bar in Roppongi. My treat.”

This time, her manager interjected. “I’m sorry, Takahashi-san, but we already booked the train ticket. If we miss it, l/n-chan will be late for school tomorrow.”

“You’re a bit funny,” said Takahashi-san. “An idol who cares for school? Hah!” he chuckled. “You know what y/n-chan, here, take my number.”

Y/n stared at the outstretched hand in front of her. It’s holding a piece of paper with a phone number scribbled on top of it.

“It’s my personal number,” added the older man with a wink, she internally blanched. “Call me?”

Fuck.

She really wants to reject it. She really wants to say that she’s not interested. That he’s not my type.

But at the same time, y/n knows that she’s the one with the disadvantage here.

An unpopular idol that’s desperately trying to get more gigs versus an established popular boyband member? She knows that if she rejects him now, it will practically be the end of her career. Her manager, too, seemed to share the same thought as she realized a small twitch on the man’s eyebrow. Clearly agitated.

Despite all, y/n put her best smile, practically beaming towards Takahashi-san. “Thank you, Takahashi-san!” she said, receiving the number. “It will be nice to have a senior to help me from time to time!”

Takahashi-san let out a laugh at that. “Of course, of course,” he replied, slinging an arm around her shoulder.” It’s a shame that we can’t hang out today, but give me a call next time you’re in Tokyo, hm?” continued the older. “Ah, no, give me a call when you arrive back at your house?”

What are we? A couple? She internally scoffed.

“Of course, Takahashi-san!” said y/n cheerily. “Ah, I think my train will leave in…?”

“In an hour,” replied her manager. “We need to go now if we want to catch it.”

She, in fact, knows that her train will be leaving in three hours, but she immediately put a disappointed expression on her face. “Ah, that’s a shame, it would be nice to talk more with Takahashi-san!” she lamented before giving the older man a bow. “Then I’ll take my leave, Senpai!”

“Of course, take care on your way home, y/n-chan!”

Waving back, she let the smile plastered across her face as she walked out. The smile was still there until she entered her car, where she immediately let out a huge sigh.

“Ah,” she sighed. “This is exhausting.”

“You’re not actually going to call him, aren’t you?” asked her manager as he started the car.

Scoffing, she rolled her eyes. “What am I? An idiot? Of course, I won’t!” the girl huffed out. “He’s practically oozing Playboy vibes! And he’s so much older than me!”

“You are right on that,” said her manager as they began driving towards the train station. “Takahashi Ren is a known womanizer in the industry. You’re also right that he’s way too old than you. He’s 20, 21 by the end of the year.”

“Ugh,” groaned out y/n, disgusted. “What is his problem, seriously?”

“A lot apparently.”

Just imagining the sleazy smile and the winks that he kept giving her throughout the shoot made her shudder. She knows she’s pretty. She won’t be an idol if she’s not objectively pretty. But seriously! She expected the man to have more tact! To practically flirting with a minor is disgusting by itself! Not to mention offering them for a drink? While underage?

He’s not her type anyway. Way too pretty boy. Way too lanky. Way too pale.

Though, that train of thought made her stop.

What’s her type anyway? She never dated anyone before, so she guess her type is-

Tall, with tanned skin. Broad shoulder and a sweet smile. Hair cropped short, often hidden under a cap. Someone that looks just like-

No.

No, let’s stop that train of thought, she thought, closing her eyes. It had veered into a dangerous territory after all. It had reached a part of her heart that she doesn’t want to probe this late at night, lest she won’t get any sleep for school tomorrow.

“L/n-chan,” called out her manager, breaking her thought.

“Hm?”

There’s a bit of a silence between the two of them before the man opened his mouth. “You know that the company will try our best to support you, yeah?” he started. “We may not have a big influence, but it’s still our duty to protect our artist, so if there’s anything – or anyone – that made you uncomfortable or forces you to do something that you don’t like, please tell us okay?”

Y/n blinked, staring at her manager side profile.

Currently, she’s the only artist in their company. Their only active artist. So it makes sense if the company wants to protect their only money maker. It’s normal, for them to protect an artist that’s their only source of income. It shouldn’t be anything special.

But still, knowing that there’s someone that’s supporting her like this- it’s nice.

It’s nice that she’s not alone in this.

“Of course,” she replied with a grin. “I’ll be counting on you guys in the future, okay?”

Letting out a smile, her manager nodded. “Of course l/n-chan, the pleasure is ours.”

taglist!

@mindless-rock @lovewithmary @seijaelee @kikookii

#shohei ohtani fanfic #shohei ohtani fanfiction #shohei ohtani fic #shohei ohtani imagines #mlb fanfic #shohei ohtani fluff #shohei ohtani x reader #baseball fanfiction #baseball fanfic #Ohtani fanfiction #ohtani fanfic #ohtani fic

18 notes · View notes

soundspeachytome · 1 year ago

Text

our future lives - shohei ohtani soft au

trope: childhood best friends to strangers

word count: 5.9k words

author notes: (this will be a bit long so if you want to jump straight to the fic, go right ahead!)

I wrote this in retrospect to the days i spent with my high school newspaper publication team. Recently, an old friend and org mate from the school newspaper (who i have not spoken to in years) followed me on instagram and it took me down memory lane.

This was a time when a boy who (coincidentally enough, also played for a sports team) used to read drafts of my silly stories and poems of fictional heartbreak and would compliment my writing all the time. He was my best friend until he wasn’t.

This was when everything was awkward, confusing and unsettling; when I didn’t believe love could blossom beyond friendship. And when it was already right in front of me, I chose to run away.

With Shohei Ohtani as my current muse, I write this to close the what ifs our high school memories have left us. And when love finally visits us once again, instead of running away, maybe, just maybe, we’d be able to look at it straight in the face and say, "welcome, I hope you enjoy your stay."

Songs i listened to while writing: (repeatedly, repulsively, and obsessively)

Right where you left me - taylor swift (evermore)

Shouldn’t be - luke chiang

You are in love - taylor swift (1989)

This is a work of fiction. Names, characters, places and incidents either are products of the author's imagination or are used fictitiously.

==============================

I didn’t feel anything at first but when realization sank, I almost doubled over. A familiar feeling punctured somewhere on the middle of my chest, like a pounding, beating of a drum. While an economics faculty was waiting for me to check out her library card, she chatted animatedly with her colleague and I couldn’t help but eavesdrop. When the words “homecoming”, and “shohei ohtani” were mentioned in one sentence, I almost dropped the books on the professor’s feet.

“I couldn’t help but overhear your conversation… Did you say Shohei Ohtani is coming back…?” I croaked.

“Yes! It’s on the news everywhere. He’s attending his former school’s foundation anniversary as a baseball alum.” She hushed excitedly. She almost looked like she was blushing.

“Professor, didn’t you graduate from Rosewood High School, too?”

She and her friend looked at me expectantly, like I’m some sort of Bingo announcer about to shout their magic winning number. I nodded slowly, a small smile formed my lips.

“Wow! You and Shohei Ohtani were schoolmates, then! Were you in the same year?”

“Has he always been so tall?”

“Did he have any girlfriends back then?”

The pair of them launched their questions like an automatic rifle, I swung albeit defensively, and yet I couldn’t duck myself for cover in time.

I shrugged and quietly said, “I didn’t really know him that much, he was always just playing baseball, I guess.”

Before they could respond, I pushed my thick-rimmed glasses back to the bridge of my nose and went back to my Excel spreadsheets. They said their thank yous and skipped their way out of the library.

Finally, quiet again.

Like every typical librarian, one glare from me could snap chatty visitors’ mouths at an instant. I reveled in the silence of my humble workplace, with shelves taller than any average person, filled with books old and new. I could spend hours in the silence, tapping on my computer archives, or shelving books from the returned pile. This is the job of my dreams. Customary, routine, familiar, comfort zone.

I realized that I have been tapping the letter Y key from the keyboard, lost in thought. I couldn’t believe the words I heard earlier could ever be strung in one sentence, not even in my wildest dreams. I tapped my legs restlessly. It couldn’t be true, could it?

How many popular Shohei Ohtanis could make girls this flustered?

There’s a one-hundred one percent chance that the result is, well, one.

To preserve my peace of mind, I decided to google him, and when the results showed the rumor to be true, I almost spiraled in my seat.

Did you know Shohei Ohtani in high school? The words from the two professors rang in my head.

I knew damn well who Shohei Ohtani is.

Shohei and I have been friends since the day we learned how to talk. We lived on the same block, sat together in class, shared snacks during recess, we’d bicker loudly and fight like the worst of all enemies. According to our mothers, when he pulled my hair after I had claimed his Spiderman lego toy, I screamed so loud it could be heard two houses down the block. He felt so guilty about it and rushed to peck me on the cheeks so I’d stop bawling. Not sure how accurate our mothers’ anecdotes are, if they had been exaggerated or not, but they said, after that fight, little Shohei had treated the little me sweeter after that.

On good days, we played swings in the playground. We walked home together and would visit each other’s houses to play board games and Bomberman until it was no longer comfortable to stay in each other’s bedrooms without getting weird ideas.

Upon reaching puberty, I had grown in breast size, started getting my periods and hormonal mood swings while Shohei had grown a foot taller and his shoulders stretched widely. He lost his baby fat and developed muscle definition after playing sports. It was a time in our lives when it was officially awkward to hold hands while crossing the street, or for him to playfully grab me by the neck. If we did, we would get notes from the schoolmaster for indecency.

It wasn’t only the skinship that changed. Shohei grew to be more popular with the girls when he performed well in high school baseball. He was tall, fit, respectful and most importantly, he had a kind smile that would make your heart do a tap dance. And so my heart wore dancing shoes everyday.

While Shohei was busy playing his ball games, I joined the school paper as a news writer. The club meetings took up most of my afternoons then when i used to spend it by waiting for Shohei. By the time he finished practice, I would still be in the school library, either my face buried in a stack of books, or fingers furiously tapping an article on my laptop.

“You can go first. I don’t think I can go home yet, not unless this article writes itself.” I said one afternoon, not looking up. I was preparing an article for the school sports festival, where Shohei was the third-year representative and captain. I heard him walk up to me and braced myself. Tap tap tap.

He set his gym bag and batting equipment on the table and sat on the chair beside me.

“I’ll wait.” He said calmly. He crossed his arms over the table and closed his eyes, as if to sleep. He sat there in silence, baking in the sounds of my keyboard smashing my unnerving thoughts and emotions.

Suffice to say, I didn’t get anything done after that. The smell of soap and cologne crept up to my nose and his broad shoulders lightly touched mine. Him sitting so innocently with his head on the table was enough of a distraction. It also didn’t help that on my periphery, I knew that he was facing my direction. In the next three minutes or so, I allowed myself to stare at his face: bags under his eyes were slowly showing, his well-defined nose, his mouth slightly agape, with evidence of picking and biting the lower lip skin.

When he startled awake, I scrambled to close the laptop monitor so loudly I thought I had cracked the screen. Embarrassed and face probably beet red, I stood up to leave. He carried all of my bags that day. When I offered to carry his gym bag, he refused.

In the last few weeks of that semester, I had become interim editor-in-chief. Shohei’s games had ended and our deadline for the year-end publication drew nearer. That meant I had made the library my second home like a bridge troll, only allowing brief, important conversations. My entire table was covered with mock newspaper clippings, sample layouts, glue, stacks and stacks of drafts that went through multiple, desperate, bloody revisions. This and the rest of my academic subjects I balanced gingerly on a thin line. Shohei would continue to visit and wait by the other corner of the library, pretending to read mystery thriller books he picked from the shelves. Most of the time, he slept. I never saw him study, even in the library. He didn’t need to as he aces all his subjects while hitting home runs on the field. I always suspected that he astral projects in his sleep and studies inside the realm of dreams. That’s probably why no matter how much he slept, he was still constantly tired.

In other words, Shohei always seemed like he never had to try. He was good at everything. And I always had to work hard just to be able to stand on the same playing field as he is, at least once or twice.

One particular day, when afternoon classes were canceled to give way to the club meetings, I was in my usual spot in the library with Zumi, our layout artist and a third-year from class B. We were finalizing the layout design before submitting it to the publishing house. Shohei was in baseball practice and had been MIA from the library all week.

A group of girls suddenly filled the library.

“He’s not here!” I heard one of them say. They noticed Zumi and I chatting quietly in the corner.

“Hey, you’re Y/N right?” A girl with jet black hair siad. Her skin was white as porcelain. She had retainers on, the ones that looked unfairly pretty on lucky pretty girls.

I nodded.

“Are you Ohtani’s girlfriend?”

“Excuse me?” I blurted out, eyes almost popping out of my eye sockets.

She chuckled. “Right? I couldn’t believe it myself too. I know Ohtani only sees you as his best friend.”

I couldn’t respond right away. It was true but why did it sting so much?

“But they’re always together, I saw her give him a lunchbox during breaks.” A petite girl with a wolf haircut emerged from the sides. She had her arms crossed and an eyebrow raised.

The rest of the group murmured in unison.

“Our mothers are close friends, so it was natural for us to grow up being friends, too.” I said irritably. Not only was this irrelevant but it was so annoying that a bunch of girls would question her decade-long friendship.

“I don’t have to spell out the dynamics of our friendship to you.”

“If that bothers you so much, why don’t you personally tell Ohtani’s mother to stop asking me to bring his lunch boxes for him.”

It was quiet for a few seconds. I was afraid that it would escalate into a screaming match or a brawl that could result in us being kicked out–or worse, banned–from the library. The herd of girls glared at me and I glared right back.

“Um, a-as you can see, he is not here.” Zumi breaks the silence, clearly intimidated but she soldiers on. “And you’re disrupting our meeting.”

The first girl gives me a pointed look and spins on her heel and the rest follows.

Zumi sighed in relief. “Oh my god, Y/N, I thought I would experience my first visit to the schoolmaster’s office before graduation.” She rubbed her sweaty palms together.

I stifled a giggle, anger fading. Zumi’s gentle personality softened me right away. I couldn’t help but smile at her.

“Don’t worry, Zumi, we don’t start fights but we sure as hell can end them.”

Shohei and I met less and less after that. I had purposely avoided him as much as I could because I still felt upset and he didn’t even have a vague idea about other girls spreading rumors about us. Another reason was I didn’t want to be referred to as “Shohei’s female best friend” anymore. His growing popularity in school made me only slink back down to the pits of the social hierarchy.

I also wanted to take some time away and contemplate my feelings about our friendship. He’s only a friend I grew up with. We shared meals together and walked home together. He would hug me when I’m upset and I would console him when his anger skyrocketed. These are common best friend behaviors, right? So why else would it suddenly change? Why don’t we ever stay like this forever?

Weeks after my so-called Shohei blackout, I was left alone to clear the table I had claimed in the far corner of the library when Shohei popped in to visit.

The school year had finally come to a close, exams and ball games concluded, and the year-end paper was now distributed to everyone on campus: Shohei’s team pictured on the front page headline, declared as the year’s champions in inter-high school level.

He had a copy of the newspaper in his hand, grinning.

“Nice article, Y/N.”

“Is it nice because it had your winning face covering the entire spread?”

“I mean, you finally got an article on the front page!” He was waving the paper to you, pointing at the byline, as if you’ve never seen the layout more than a hundred times already. “Written by– your name! How cool is that!”

“My name is in a tiny font under your 32 font-size on the headline. I promise you, it’s not a big deal.”

“It is for me, though. I read it word for word. I loved it. You’re so good at words, Y/N” his eyes crinkled at the sides and I waved him off, blushing.

“I’ve seen enough of this newspaper, I think I’m going to be nauseous.” you faked a retching sound.

“I’ve started seeing that damn thing in my dreams, Sho.” You grimaced. “Please hide that from me. Or I will rip it into shreds.”

Shohei giggled boisterously. You immediately swiped your hands over his mouth.

“Sshh! The librarian will hear you!” You looked around nervously, relaxing after realizing the librarian was nowhere in sight. “I don’t want to get kicked out on our last day of school.”

He held your arms away and uncovered his mouth from your hands. “Seriously, though, I’m proud of you. You worked so hard for this all semester.”

“Well, the subject was interesting to write about.”

“Is that right?” he smiled, mischief glinted in his eyes.

“”Rosewood’s revival after years of being dormant in high school baseball” was a pretty cool angle to write.” I said. And it truly was. The moment I saw the efforts and hardwork of Shohei and his inspiring leadership setting a momentum into the games, I knew right away that I had to call dibs on the story.

“Uh-huh.” He was just looking at me, hands still wrapped around my arms, locking me in place.

“It was a story worthy to tell and I just happened to tell the story. It all just–” I tried to mash my hands together, demonstrating the words synonymous to merging, fusing, blending.

He pulls me close and rests his hand at the back of my neck. I could feel the snug of his embrace melting me into a puddle. He hesitates but leans in. It was soft, abrupt and merely testing the waters. He pulled back slightly to look at my reaction. I didn’t know what I looked like, but what I did know at that moment, my heart bounced uncontrollably like a basketball. I swear I thought it would burst my chest open.

When I didn’t react or push him back, he leaned in for another try, this time, with more intent, meaning, and weight on my lips. When we parted, he looked away sheepishly that all I had to do in response to the kiss was to pull him in a tight hug. We stayed like that for a few more minutes because neither of us knew when to let go, or even wanted to. We just stood there relishing our newfound warmth while concealed in between the quiet and that precious corner space that held us. I don’t know how to define this feeling yet… but I could get used to this.

Nothing further ever happened after that sweet library moment because the next day, we received news that Shohei Ohtani was granted a full scholarship overseas. Thanks to his impressive performance during the last game. Ohtani joked that it was mainly because my frontpage piece was so well-written, it moved the university scouts’ ice-cold hearts to tears.

“You’d be an idiot not to go.” I was at the kitchen counter of our home, setting the newly baked chocolate chip cookies out of the oven to cool down. It was a Saturday morning and Shohei visited, like any other day.

“I’d be alone, though.” he was wistfully eyeing the cookies on the wire rack. “I’m scared I might fail and be a disappointment to my dad.”

His arm slowly reached for the cookies but I immediately swatted him away.

“It’s still hot, dumbass.” I gave him the bowl where the cookie dough was originally mixed. He dutifully scooped the remains and popped a finger in his mouth, he grinned, satisfied.

“You won’t be alone because everybody likes you. And you won’t be a disappointment because you work twice as hard than everyone else. You’re Shohei Ohtani, for god’s sake.”

He doubted but I knew what he was thinking because I was trying not to think about it, too. If this was about the kiss, we can let it go. We can forget about it. It was just a kiss, this was our future and it shined brightly in front of him. It would make me a selfish person to try and block that from him.

“There won’t be a Y/N there, though.” he said, eyes trained to the cookie dough he held. “My best friend won’t be there.”

“I’ll be right here when you come back. Besides, we can always email each other, like we always did in computer class.”

I didn’t tell him this but it also broke my heart to say those words. I will definitely miss him, sure. He’s been a constant presence in my life that once he leaves, it would definitely leave a big hole in my life.

I wanted to tell him that whatever happened in the library that day will always be etched in my memory as long as I lived, that I wanted it as much as he did, and it hurt to say goodbye to a possibility, to something that had barely even started. If I had told him that, he would’ve turned down the offer right away.

So I didn’t, and so he left.

Ohtani and I would email constantly during our very first year in uni. He would send me pictures of the new places he visited, food he tasted, with little descriptions every now and then. You knew he was trying to include me in his new life as much as he could. In return, I showed him how I continued my simple, quiet life, how I met new friends at uni, how I ate at new hole-in-the-wall restaurants with the promise that we’d try them out when he returned back home.

Of course that didn’t last very long as life apparently came in between us. Long training hours for Shohei, and newer opportunities showed up in my doorstep as I got a partial scholarship and part-time job as a student assistant.

It went on like that for a very long time as we kept missing each other’s emails. I would already be asleep when he sends his messages and he’d be out in the field by the time I could reply. Sometimes I don’t receive anything at all at weeks’ a time.

One day, after two weeks of radio silence, I heard a girl in the washroom gush about Ohtani’s popularity overseas and how he has gotten a girlfriend. They were pretty serious, she would go on to say. She had long black hair with a pretty slender body, something like his type.

I stood there, hands dripping wet, listening to something I normally wouldn’t believe unless he confirmed it himself. The thing is, I haven’t heard from him in weeks, so I didn’t have a choice but to believe in the words from the grapevine.

I stopped waiting for his emails to come. If he sent me new ones, I didn’t check. I busied myself in the halls of the library studying, reading and writing, writing and writing my feelings away.

I wrote until my hands got tired, until I spilled everything I needed to forget into paper. Until I welcomed a new love into my life. He was also tall, kind, and cheerful. He respected my time and he loved going to new coffee shops with me. At that point, I was overfilled with joy and contentment that I barely thought about Shohei anymore. In the back of my mind, the chapter of Shohei Ohtani is now closed and my rosy high school life became a beloved, worn out book that I no longer revisited.

Later I learned in life that some things, despite making you undoubtedly happy, could still end horribly.

My relationships turned sour, some of my friendships fell out, but the worst part of it all was when my dad had a heart attack.

He died six months later.

It was pretty much autopilot after that. I could only ever handle so much, I don’t think I am as brave as Joan D’arc to handle ten, twenty more scars. Not when two of the best people I loved have left my life. Not when the person I want to run the most to is… no longer there to meet me.

I was a student intern at the archives section when the post for head librarian was vacated. I’ve already applied to multiple companies in the private and public sectors and kept getting waitlisted but the university hired me on the spot. A week after graduation, I had started my full-time job at the library, and it felt like I was somehow glued back together.

XXX

The cans of beer clinked together as I swayed the black plastic on my way home from the convenience store. Nothing beats a cold can of beer after a full meal. Also because “Shohei Ohtani” is a name I never thought I’d hear again in this lifetime. So much so, that a homecoming sounded so ridiculous that if someone ever suggested that idea to me before today, I would have laughed at their faces. It was an appropriate time to wallow in my drunken thoughts.

Four years was a long time for anyone to change. It was long enough to switch jobs, get promoted, to save up money and travel, to save up money and get married and have kids, or none at all, to study for a new degree, to meet new people and develop romantic feelings for them, to lose such romantic feelings, to forgive and move on, to develop new habits, and it is also long enough for character development if you think your personality needed an overhaul. Four years was a long time apart, a long time to forget each other to even be considered taboo. And yet.

And yet.

XXX

My phone buzzed against my jeans pocket. It was a text from Zumi. She now works freelance and designs her own stationery and stickers sold at mega discount stores all over the country.

“You wouldn’t believe what I just heard.” Zumi texted. Even before she could conjure a follow-up text, I responded right away.

Y/N: “Someone’s coming back to town?...”

Zumi: “WUT.”

Zumi: “U KNEW? AND DIDN'T TELL ME #betrayal”

Y/N: “I heard about it a couple of days ago and blacked out after 3 cans of beer. Sorry, Joomi-chan.”

Y/N: “I didn’t drink only because of the news, though. I ate almost 2 KGs of wagyu, too. It was the perfect drink to end the day.”

Y/N: “I ate ice cream, too."

Y/N: “I’m rambling. I”ve been restless since I heard about it.”

Y/N: “I’ll be okay, though. I always have been.”

I was about to put my phone down after the text blasts I sent to assure her when text bubbles appeared. Typing. I waited.

Zumi: “It’s alright to admit you’re not okay about this, Y/N”

Zumi: “He was a big part of your life, who ghosted you, asshole move btw, and his head’s probably gotten too big for his own good. I wonder how he walks around with that swollen head without toppling over.

Zumi: “Also, I’m only saying all of this because my role as Y/N’s only best friend is currently being threatened. I forgive you though!”

I had to laugh. Zumi was always fond of Ohtani and I even back in high school. Whenever she had time, she would join us on our katsu curry runs and hated matcha, while Ohtani and I loved it. She always preferred strawberry. She was the perfect balance in our little trio. And now, she is my voice of reason.

I paused to reread the text. Am I really okay about this? It’s a fairly small town, the chances of running into him are slim, but never zero. And what if I do meet him by chance, what should I do?

Zumi: “Text me when you feel like drinking again. I’ll sneak out and join you in solidarity!”

Before I could send the cutest peach butt sticker to Zumi, a message from an unregistered number popped up on my notifications.

“Hi, Y/N. It’s Shohei Ohtani. I got your number from your mom. I’m sorry for being abrupt like this but I just flew back from the States and will be spending a few days at home.

Do you want to meet up for some curry katsu for old time's sake?”

Holy hell, I stared at the messages in disbelief. Am I being punked right now? Where is the hidden camera? If the universe is listening right now, please, swallow me whole into the earth right now.

I clenched the phone hard, against my chest. You are better now. Don’t fumble.

Tap tap tap.

XXX

I don’t know what had gotten into my head that when I responded a few hours later, had agreed to meet up after work for curry and drinks. Future me would like to smack past me of five hours ago for making a decision like this.

But here I am now, just a few stores away from the curry place I had suggested for dinner.

Suddenly feeling conscious, I stopped by a convenience store that had a convex mirror on top of the corner shelves. I swiped lipstick on my lips and powdered my nose. I also bought mints just to play for time. I worked up the courage to text Zumi.

Y/N: So, please tell me I’m doing the wrong thing and I will turn back.

Zumi: What happened?

Y/N: After we texted earlier, Shohei texted me out of the blue and that he’s already in the town.

Zumi: He WHAT???

Zumi: Are you telling me he asked to meet up and you said yes?

Y/N: You should switch careers and be a fortune teller instead.

Zumi: You WHAT???

Y/N: Pls, pls, pls tell me I’m wrong for doing this.

She didn’t respond right away. Her text bubbles went up and down infrequently. I stood outside of the restaurant, in the cold of the night waiting for her response.

Zumi: How do YOU feel about it?

Zumi: If I were you, I, who have witnessed all the carnage all these years, I would do it. I know if you turn your back now, you’d spend another four, five years wondering what would’ve happened if you chose differently.

Zumi: Don’t try to rationalize it, Y/N. You’re panicking now. But I know in your heart, you want answers. You want this. So suck it up and be a big gworl!

She resonated exactly how I felt about this. So why was I hesitating?

I walked up to the restaurant and scanned the room. It was almost empty after dinner hours, except for a few white collar workers catching up on late night meals.

And then I saw him. He sat at the back of the room, his back facing the front of the shop. I could recognize those wide shoulders anywhere in a heartbeat. I made a beeline towards him.

He wore a blue polo buttoned up to his chest, creasing at the shoulders as he slouched forward. He looked absolutely different from the memory of the boy who used to carry my bags. His hair grew into thick waves and his cheeks and jawline was chiseled and defined to the bone, revealing more of his handsome face.

He stood up, smiling widely and threw his hands around me, a whiff of his sandalwood perfume and the feel of his hair pressed to my cheek brought everything back: spending lazy days in the library, the night strolls on the way home from school, sharing twin popsicle ice creams, the warmth of his hands intertwined with mine, that last first kiss. I pulled away and he gestured to me to sit down. As we both sat down, I thought, You are always finding ways to get my hopes up.

We stared at each as I settled down on my seat. For a few moments, I felt the room was charged with cold air. His eyes traced my face making me more and more self-conscious, I had to break the ice.

“The chicken curry katsu is good here, you know.” I said, as a waiter approached and served us water. “But if you prefer pork, it’s heaven too.”

I sipped the cold water nervously and fidgeted the hem of my plaid skirt.

“It’s been a while.” I started.

“I’ve been busy.” He started to explain. I hate how he thinks this was his decision, how he didn’t even consider the fact that I’ve been busy, too. “How about you? I’ve stopped hearing about you since…”

“Things happened.” I simplified, but really, I wanted to give him a rundown of how things have more or less worked out okay for me–how I am doing well at my job, taking my Masters, thinking about traveling to Southeast Asia with Zumi, spending time with family on weekends, trying to do pilates at least thrice a month, and catching up with some old friends whenever we got to clear our schedules. How I am, despite his absence, was not entirely miserable. But I don’t want him to think that I am just doing this to prove a point, so I coated a response with the standard, “But I’ve been fine, thanks. How are you?”

“Same old, I’m here for business and something else. I finally got the courage to tell you this now.” He said, finishing up the last of his meal and downing his glass of water before speaking again.

I honestly don’t want to know, I want to order another glass of beer and fall asleep drunk. I want to crawl into my bed and waddle in self-pity at how I’ve spiraled back to square one, of how after all these years, I am still hopelessly in love with this unattainable man, who thinks we are still each other’s best friends after years of no contact. Instead I responded cautiously, “What is it?”

He inched forward and leaned his face on his right hand. “There’s this girl.”

I held my breath and braced myself for impact.

“There’s this girl. We almost always never stood on the same foot. She hated sports and hated standing in the sun to see me play, but watched regardless because she had to write an article about it.

“When we finally started realizing we liked each other, I received my scholarship grant and moved overseas. If she got mad about me going MIA, I could've explained better to her that I had an accident during Spring training and was in a hospital bed for almost a month. Had she checked her emails, she would know. But she never replied. Ever.

“After a few months, I heard from our friends that she finally got a boyfriend and was in a happy, healthy relationship. I thought, ‘Oh. Good for her! I'm happy for her. Someone near to take care of her.’ but was I really, though? I got myself a girlfriend, too and forgot about this girl for a while.

“But I heard about her dad’s passing and I tried to reach her but I couldn’t. Her home phone number was disconnected, my mom said they moved out of the block and she still won’t respond to my emails.

“I couldn’t be there for her but I thought, “she'd be with her boyfriend. She’ll have someone to lean on. But then her friends said they had broken up long before the incident. She carried all those baggage all by herself? Who did she have to lean on? Was she eating okay? Was she sleeping well? Does she still smile when she watches puppies run around bumping into things?

“It seemed like the timing was never on our side. She was available when I wasn’t, I was free on the days that she was occupied.

“I’ve always wondered if the universe played some practical joke on the two of us. If somehow, they'd ever allow me the chance to meet her again. I’ve been waiting for her for a long time now.

“Y/N, do you think if I ask her now, she’d finally be as ready as I am to meet her?”

I exhaled and felt my heart pounding. There is the thrum in my chest that felt all too familiar. Have we been missing each other’s chances all this time? Have I been getting on and off the wrong platform, just as much as he did, because we didn’t know what we wanted when we were barely twenty?

“I think you should ask her before it’s too late.” I said, catching myself, still staying on that third person narration. I mulled over the times we constantly missed each other like he had pointed out. He had been there for me when I was searching for myself and what I wanted to do, and I had watched him from afar when he was trying to meet his dreams, to the point of pushing him far away.

“I’m asking you now. I was always late, wasn’t I?”

His brown eyes bored into mine, expectant, hopeful. “Yes. You were...but you’re here now..." I trailed off, thinking how much shock I was to hear Shohei's speech. I wondered if responding to my real feelings was the right thing to do. He had his accident, my dad's funeral, the miscommunication between us. The sudden falling out. I wondered, if after all this time, someone like me would still be worth restarting over with.

"...and I think, you’re just in time, Sho.”

He smiled widely, showing the crinkles on the sides of his eyes, he exhaled as if he had been holding his breath all this time.

"Thank god. I was almost certain you'd say no and disappear on me again." he laughed.

Freckles that I've never seen before popped over his nose and cheeks. So much has changed in his appearance but it was the same smile of the boy I love since eighteen.

“I’m home,” he whispers.

“Welcome back,” I said, finally smiling at him, too.

Shohei stands up and offers his hand as we exit the restaurant; I take it and interlace our fingers. For the first time in a long time, the tap dancing of my calloused heart has returned ever so exhilarating, like a lost pulse bringing me back to life. We are catching up on lost time, and for whatever fragment of memory that may have escaped through the cracks, we’ll slowly string them together. It doesn’t matter how many possibilities we’ve missed in the last four years of being apart. The important thing is this possibility, the right here and right now.

#shohei ohtani #shohei ohtani au #shohei ohtani imagines #shohei ohtani pov #shohei ohtani soft hours #soft spot for #high school shohei #i'm not so confident about this one #but i hope everyone likes how it ended #thank you for reading! <3

157 notes · View notes