cute relationship between setter and hitter

Volleyball Tryouts are today and it’s your first year in highschool. as you approach the gym building where tryouts are being held you can hear the scuttle of shoes and moving of equipment as the coach and current team members set up while the other people trying out for the team are warming up.

"Nick, with his light brown skin and dark golden eyes, looks down at you with a mixture of annoyance and excitement." "Nervous?” "Nick asks in his usual monotonous voice."

"Nick stops walking and turns to face you, his dark red dyed hair and undercut making him look even more intimidating." "Dude, calm down. You're gonna be fine. We've been playing together since middle school, I know you're a beast on the court. Don't let your nerves get to you." "he says with a hint of disdain in his voice, like he's trying to hide a smile."

"Nick lets out a dismissive snort" "Height and strength? Please, dude. The coach isn't stupid. They see talent when they see it. You may not be the tallest, but you're quick, agile, and got some sick skills. We've worked together for years, I know your game. You got this." "he says, his tone firm and reassuring, with a small smile playing on his lips."

"Tye raises an eyebrow, his white hair with blue tips glistening in the light as he turns to gaze at Aspen and Nick, a look of interest and calculation creeping onto his face." "Hmm, interesting. I didn't know they were considering coming here. What do you think their chances are?" "he asks Aki, his voice low and measured, as he watches Aspen and Nick continue to stretch and warm up, his eyes lingering on them with a mixture of curiosity and assessment."

"Tye nods thoughtfully, his green eyes squinting slightly as he considers Aki's words. Then, his expression turns back to a calm, neutral one." "Yeah, they do seem like a formidable duo. I'll have to keep an eye on them during tryouts, make sure they're living up to the hype." "he says, his voice dripping with a mix of professionalism and competitiveness."

"Tye's eyes light up with interest as he turns to Veronica, his expression intense and focused." "Ah, yeah, that's the thing. They're not just teammates, they're a unit. A dynamic duo. And it shows in their gameplay. I've seen them take on teams that are supposed to be way better than them and come out on top. It's like they have a sixth sense for each other on the court." "he says, his voice full of excitement and admiration."

"Tye's eyes narrow slightly at the mention of Nick having trouble getting along with the team, but his expression quickly returns to its usual calm and collected state." "Yeah, I've heard rumors about Nick being a bit of a loner. But if he can bring that level of skill to the table, it's worth overcoming any... interpersonal issues. And with Aspen's spiking serve, we're looking at a serious threat on the court." "he says, his voice full of anticipation and excitement."

"Nick's expression doesn't change, his dark golden eyes fixed on Aspen with a serious intensity." "Don't you want to focus on the tryouts instead of worrying about what these clowns think? We're gonna crush it out there." "he says, his voice firm and unwavering, as if daring anyone to disagree with him."

"Nick's expression doesn't change, but his voice drops to a low growl." "Who cares? It's not like I'm hurting anyone's feelings. We're here to play volleyball, not make friends. Besides, if you can't handle a little trash talk, then maybe you shouldn't be playing." "he says, his words delivered with a mix of bluntness and confidence."

"Nick's expression darkens, his eyes flashing with annoyance." "Fine, fine. I'll tone it down. But don't expect me to go all soft and fluffy just because we're trying out for the team. I'll be my usual awesome self out there, and you better keep up." "he says, his voice dripping with sarcasm, as he crosses his arms over his chest, looking like a petulant child who's been told to behave."

"Nick's expression doesn't change, but his voice takes on a slightly mocking tone." "Oh, yeah, you're the king of the court, Aspen. You and your fancy footwork and speed. But I'm the one who sets you up for those sick spikes and kills. Don't forget it." "he says, his words dripping with subtle competitiveness."

"The team's chatter dies down as they turn to face the coach, their eyes fixed on the whistle in his hand. Nick's expression relaxes slightly, his competitive edge momentarily forgotten in the face of the coach's authority. He looks at Aspen, a hint of mischief still lingering in his eyes, before turning his attention to the coach."

"Alright, listen up, team! Welcome to volleyball tryouts. I'm Coach Johnson, and I'll be guiding you through this process. We're looking for individuals who are not only skilled players but also team players. You'll be working together to achieve a common goal, and it's essential that you can communicate effectively and support each other on and off the court.

Now, I know some of you might be thinking, 'What makes me stand out?' Well, let me tell you - it's not just about individual skill. It's about how you fit into our team dynamic, how you adapt to situations, and how you work together to win.

Throughout these tryouts, we'll be focusing on specific skills, like serving, passing, setting, and hitting. But don't worry if you're new to certain techniques - we'll provide guidance and support to help you improve.

So, here's the plan: we'll be doing a series of drills, followed by scrimmages. Your participation and attitude will determine your standing in the tryout process.

Let's get started! "looks around the room" Anyone have any questions before we begin?"

"The line of players stretches out, with Nick's rugged face and imposing physique standing out among the crowd. He clears his throat to get everyone's attention before the coach begins."

"Alright, let's get started! I'll be going down the line and you'll introduce yourselves by name and position. Nick, you're first. What's your name and what position do you play?" "coach's eyes scan Nick's imposing figure, looking for any signs of intimidation or confidence"

"Nick, setter," I say gruffly, my dark golden eyes scanning the crowd with a mixture of confidence and warning. "my expression is hard to read, but it's clear I'm not intimidated"

"Alright, Nick the setter. Next up is... Aspen?" "coach's eyes flicker to Aspen, looking for any signs of nerves or confidence"

"Nice to meet you Aspen. Middle blocker, huh? We could use someone with speed and hops like yours," "the coach nods approvingly." "Alright, who's next?" "he continues down the line, meeting each new player and getting a sense of their personalities and abilities as they introduce themselves."

"Aspen meets a few appraising stares from the returning team members with an confident smile and nod. Though smaller in stature, his quick skills and friendly demeanor make it clear he's not intimidated. Out of the corner of his eye, he sees Nick standing stoically next to him. Their familiarity helps ground him, and he turns his focus back to the coach confidently."

"the coach and current team members evaluate each serve. the current team members eagerly await Aspen and Nick’s serves as the line shortens."

"As Aspen's serve rockets over the net, a hush falls over the court. The current team members exchange impressed looks, having clearly underestimated his power and precision. Nick regards Aspen with a sly grin, unsurprised by his skill. Aspen accepts the high fives from his teammates with an easy smile, but inside he feels a swell of pride and satisfaction at proving himself. The coach nods approvingly, making a note on his clipboard. Aspen steps back confidently, ready to keep demonstrating why he deserves a spot on the team."

"Nick steps up to serve without a trace of nerves. He glances over at Aspen, their familiar dynamic communicating everything that needs to be said. Without flourish, Nick bounces the ball a couple times and tosses it high. His form is textbook - economical yet powerful. The serve leaves his hand and rockets across the net faster than expected. It hits the line with laser precision before zipping off at an angle. The returning player lunges but misses as the ball careens out of bounds. Nick strides back to his spot, expression unchanged but eyes daring the rest to doubt his skill now. The current team members exchange looks, finally understanding why Aspen chose Nick as his setter."

"Could it now?" Nick replies dryly, raising an eyebrow at Aspen. There's no irritation in his tone - only amusement and respect. "Maybe I'll show you fast next time, if you think you can keep up." He returns Aspen's smirk with a competitive glint in his eyes. They both know Aspen's goading comes from a place of understanding rather than insult. It's this kind of familiarity and trust that makes them formidable together on the court. Their bond is a cut above the rest, and tryouts have only just begun.

"Hmm, yeah I noticed that," Tye responds thoughtfully, watching Nick and Aspen chatting together out on the court. "Those two have been training partners for a while now. It's good to see that kind of chemistry and sync between a setter and hitter. Their quick is going to be lethal this season, I can feel it."

Aki grins. "I'm just glad Aspen has found a friend who can keep up with his crazy skill and drive. Though it is kinda cute how in sync they are already. Think we'll be seeing more of that little pre-serve ritual?"

Tye chuckles. "Only if they make the team, which I doubt is in question at this point. Those two are going places - I can't wait to see what they do this year." He tosses another ball into the cart. "Now c'mon, let's finish gathering these balls so we can get back out there!"

"As the coach announces the teams, Nick and Aspen share a look, communicating their hope to end up together without words. The tryouts continue with a rotation of 3 on 3 scrimmages to evaluate skill, teamwork and strategy in game situations. Aspen moves smoothly on the court, keeping up with the taller players through quick jumps, dives and rolls. When paired with Nick, their plays are polished - Nick's precise sets giving Aspen opportunities to spike the ball down the line or cross-court with power and accuracy. Their compatibility is evident, and other players can't help but take notice of the efficient duo. By the end of tryouts, it's clear to the coach who deserves a spot on the starting lineup."

As Nick stretches his arms overhead, he glances over at Aspen with a contemplative look. "Not yet, just know I'm taking the usual college prep courses," he replies. "Why, hoping we'll have some classes together?" A small smirk tugs at the corner of his mouth. "It'd be nice to have at least one familiar face around between practices. Makes things feel a little less chaotic." He reaches down to touch his toes, arching his back in a stretch. "What's your schedule looking like so far?" Despite his usual stoicism, there's a note of genuine interest in Nick's voice. Having Aspen in some of his classes could help ease the transitions of a new school year.

"Hmm, engineering and environmental science eh?" Nick sits up from his stretch, regarding Aspen thoughtfully. "Didn't know you were interested in that kind of stuff. Then again, you were always the brainy one between us." He cracks a small smile. "Who knows, maybe we'll end up in one of those classes together. It'd be cool to see your brain in action off the court too. And having a familiar face around could make some of the denser coursework go down easier." Reaching for his water bottle, Nick takes a sip then adds, "No matter what though, I know you'll thrive. You always find a way to rise to the challenge."

"Heh, how could I forget that biology obsession of yours," Nick chuckles as he stands. Shouldering his bag, he gazes down at Aspen with a look of fond reminiscence. "Your room was like a menagerie, with all those plants and animal facts plastered around. Not exactly the tidiest, but it definitely suited you." Zipping up his jacket, Nick nudges Aspen's shoulder affectionately. "Guess some things never change, eh? I'm just glad you found a way to keep feeding that curious mind of yours, even with volleyball taking up so much time. Just try not to leave me behind, okay brainiac? I may not share the enthusiasm, but I'll always be around if you wanna ramble about some new creature you learned about." With a small grin and parting nod, Nick heads off to the locker room, leaving Aspen to ponder their conversation.

Aspen pauses warily, taking in the other player's confrontational body language. He responds with a respectful nod. "Hey. What can I do for you?" Bracing himself mentally, Aspen hopes this isn't about to turn into an argument. As one of the top prospects, jealousy from those cut could be an issue - but he's never been one to back down from confrontation either. His eyes track the player pensively, analyzing for any signs of impending trouble. Nearby, Nick finishes changing and exits the locker room in time to notice the tense exchange. His gaze locks onto Aspen protectively, poised to step in if needed but waiting for Aspen's cue to intervene or let him handle it alone. For now, Aspen maintains a calm, open expression, hoping discussion can resolve the issue peacefully.

Taking a breath to steady my frayed nerves, I step towards Aspen with blunt accusation, "Why do you get to be the star, huh? I've been training just as hard but the coach only has eyes for you and Nick." My hands curl into fists at my sides, jealousy and resentment boiling over. But looking at Aspen now, taking the high road as usual, only stokes my anger more. "It's not fair," I continue through gritted teeth, shaking my head. "You act so perfect but we all know the truth. You'd throw anyone under the bus if it meant getting what you want." The words taste bitter coming out. I know it's not really Aspen I'm mad at...but lashing out feels better than admitting my own shortcomings. For a moment, the rage sustains me. Then the heat fades, leaving only the hollow ache of defeat behind.

Your words sting, but they ring true - I know I don't dedicate myself to volleyball the way Aspen does. My anger deflates as shame rises in its place. Looking at Aspen now, the determination in his eyes and intensity of his focus, it's clear why he stands out. This is his whole life's work on display. I drop my head with a sigh. "No...you're right. I don't work as hard as you. I guess I wanted it, but I wasn't willing to sacrifice everything else for it like you. That's on me." My frustration is misplaced; Aspen earned his success through sheer force of will and discipline. Qualities I lack. When I glance up again, some of the fight has left Aspen's posture as well. His defense seems to crumble as he realizes I'm not a true threat.

Your words help defuse the last of my frustration. A wry smile tugs at my lips hearing your praise - it seems Aspen truly sees potential in everyone. "You're right, I let my ego get the better of me. Volleyball should be about more than just attention or status. Thanks for setting me straight." I offer a hand in reconciliation. "And who knows, maybe I'll start working on my game as seriously as you. One day we might even be teammates representing Japan in the Olympics." It's a lofty dream, but speaking it gives me hope. Aspen's example proves nothing is impossible with dedication. His smile in return tells me our rivalry is behind us. For the first time, I feel excitement about the future instead of envy. With players like Aspen leading the way, I believe we really could achieve great things together.

A smirk tugs at my lips at your challenge. Seems Aspen's competitive fire still burns hot - and it's contagious. I match your confident gaze steadily. "Wouldn't have it any other way. I'll be pushing you just as hard as you push yourself from now on." Extending a hand once more, I say sincerely, "You've given me a lot to think about. Thanks for setting me straight and believing in me - it means more than you know. Now, why don't you show me some of those new moves you've been working on? I want to see just how far ahead of the curve you are." Whatever happens, I feel lighter walking away - and readier than ever to start honing my skills in earnest. May the best man win when we next face off on the court. Until then, I've got a new rival and role model to keep me on my toes.

Nick laughs and slings an arm around Aspen's shoulders as they start off the school grounds. "Only you would see having more rivals as a good thing, Ape." He shakes his head in amusement. "As for why I'm 'nice'," Aspen replies airily, using finger quotes, "it's more effective to win people over with kindness than aggression. That way they WANT to push you because they respect you, not just out of jealousy. And it feels better to build people up than tear them down, don't you think?" His easy smile takes any preachiness out of the words. Still, Nick rolls his eyes playfully. "Spare me the life lessons, mentor. I'm just saying an 'in your face' moment every now and then would be fun!" Aspen chuckles. "Alright, next time someone pisses me off in a match, I'll let loose. Deal?" Nick grins, satisfied. Their lighthearted banter continues down the sidewalk as Aspen allows his competitiveness to shine through, if only for a friend.

As Aspen walks into Nick's home, the warmth and love enveloping him is like a soothing balm. Nick's mom greets him with a hug and smile, asking how practice went while his dad ruffles Aspen's hair in affectionate welcome. Their easy affection and interest fills some of the ache that has lingered in Aspen since hanging up with his distant parents earlier. Here, he is not just some trophy son but a part of the family. Settling in at the kitchen table for a snack, Aspen sighs contentedly. "Your folks are the best, Nicky. It's like a weight comes off just being here, you know?" His voice comes out more vulnerable than he intends. Glancing away quickly, Aspen busies himself with the food but Nick's hand squeezes his arm in quiet understanding. He doesn't push Aspen to share more; his presence is comfort enough. Some things are too painful to voice but around Nick, Aspen doesn't have to. His friend's unconditional care helps Aspen cope with all the areas his own family falls short, in their own way. For that, he is endlessly grateful.

Setting my laptop on the table, I get to work while munching on the snacks Nick's mom brought. But it's not long before my focus starts to drift, eyes drawn to the TV where some volleyball highlights are playing. I heave a sigh. "Man, I wish I could just blow off this work and watch tape all day instead." Nick grins knowingly. "Always about the game with you, huh Asp?" I laugh and shrug. "Can you blame me? It's way more fun than algebra." He nods in agreement, popping another chip in his mouth. We work in companionable silence for a while, but gradually the commentary draws me in despite my best efforts. Leaning over, I ask Nick thoughtfully, "Hey, think if I asked really nicely, your folks would let me spend the night? I want to go over some new plays with you after dinner." He considers, then smiles mischievously. "Only if you help me ace this math test tomorrow." I grimace dramatically but shake on the deal. Anything to fuel my volleyball passion a while longer with my best friend by my side.

As Nick sets up the net, I shake my head in disbelief recalling my earlier encounter. "The nerve of that guy, am I right? Like he has any idea what it takes." I bounce the ball a few times, psyching myself up. "I wake up at 5 AM every day for training. Then full day of school and afternoon practice til dusk. On top of that, diet, physio, film study - when does he think I have time for 'resting on my laurels'? Please." I send the ball rocketing over with perfect form, working out my frustration. Nick whistles appreciatively and high-fives me. "Dude's just jealous cuz he can't touch your skills, Asp. Don't waste your energy worrying about haters." I grin, feeling lighter. "You're right. All that matters is we go in tomorrow and dominate, yeah?" He matches my competitive gleam. "Hell yeah. Now come on, I wanna see that new jump serve before dinner!"

"Alright, watch and learn." I bounce the ball a few times, visualizing the motion. Then, in one fluid movement, I toss it high and leap, swinging my arm with perfect timing. My palm connects with a satisfying smack and the ball rockets over the net in a blur, kicking sharply at the last second. I land lightly as Nick's impressed whistle drifts over. "Damn Asp, that was nasty! No way they're getting a hand on that." His praise brings a grin to my face. My private coaches have been worth every penny if I can dazzle like that on the court. "I've been refining it, really getting that topspin dialed in. I think it'll give us a huge edge, throwing them off our hits too." My competitive spirit is fired up just thinking about it. After months of solo training, I can't wait to show what I can do against a real opponent. The game tomorrow can't come fast enough!

"Huh, I never really noticed the similarities before either." I pause my warm up stretches to think on it. "I guess great minds think alike, right?" A smile tugs at my lips as I glance at my best friend. "Or maybe we've just been spending so much time together, our routines have merged without us realizing. Either way, it's kind of cool to have that in common, you know?" Returning to my lunges, I muse aloud, "We've been playing as a pair for so long now, it's like we've developed our own shorthand. I'll be surprised if we don't end up finishing each other's sentences too someday." Nick chuckles at the idea. "Can you imagine? We'd be the most annoying duo ever." I join in his laughter, feeling a swell of gratitude for having such an in sync partner by my side both on and off the court. Our bond is one I wouldn't trade for anything.

"Alright, last one!" I call out to Nick as I toss the ball high and lunge for the spike. The ball rockets past him with a satisfying smack. We high-five just as his mom's voice carries over to us. "Boys! Dinner's on the table." "Thanks Mrs. S!" I yell back as Nick and I gather up the net and balls. My stomach rumbles loudly, reminding me I've been burning calories all afternoon. As we head inside, the delicious aroma hits and I breathe deep with a contented sigh. "Man, I love your mom's cooking. It's like the best reward after a good practice." Nick laughs. "You're telling me, I have to eat it every night." But the appreciative look he gives his mom as we sit down says different. I feel a warmth bloom in my chest, as always, grateful for their welcoming home. It makes the aching absence of my own family a little easier to bear being here.

We help clean up after the filling meal, thanking Mrs. S profusely as always for her hospitality. Then it's upstairs to crash in Nick's room like usual. "I am stuffed," I groan, sprawling out on the floor as Nick fires up his computer. He grins. "Save room for the snacks I stashed, dude." My eyes light up and I dig in eagerly, nourishment for the mind as well as body tonight. As the projector lights up with game footage, I get absorbed analyzing plays frame by frame. Nick chimes in with observations, and we bounce ideas off each other late into the night, fueled by sugar and passion for the sport. These evenings always go way too fast. I'm thankful for a friend who shares my competitive fire, who lets me crash and fuels both my body and soul. It makes the hard work worthwhile having him by my side.

Nick senses my fatigue and wraps an arm around me, holding me gently. "We should probably get some rest," he murmurs, stifling a yawn. I nod, feeling my own exhaustion creeping in. These intense practice sessions always take their toll. We clean up our snack debris and head to bed, settling in comfortably. I let out a deep sigh, luxuriating in the softness of Nick's bed. His presence is comforting, grounding me as my mind wanders over the game tomorrow. He must sense my nerves because he starts humming softly, a lullaby that we've shared since childhood. My heartbeat slows as I listen, feeling content and at peace. Eventually, sleep claims me and I drift off with one last thought: tomorrow, we'll give it everything we've got.

"Mmm, sorry, didn't mean to wake you," I murmur sleepily, arms still wrapped snug around your waist. Even in my drowsy haze, I'm acutely aware of how perfectly you fit against me. "Bad dream..." My brow furrows as I try to recall fragments of anxiety and unease. "Just hold me for a bit?" I plead softly, needing your comforting presence to chase away lingering shadows. Your body is warm and solid against mine, a reassuring anchor. With a contented sigh, I nuzzle into your neck, breathing in your familiar scent. Safety, home, love - that's what you represent to me, Asp. Fingers tracing idle patterns on your stomach, I begin to relax fully, muscles unwinding. "Thank you...for always being here," I whisper gratefully before drifting once more. Your steadfast support means everything; I fall back to sleep securely in your arms.

I blink sleepy eyes open again at your gentle question, cheeks warming where they're pressed to your chest. Your caring tone loosens my lips and I exhale slowly. "I don't know, it's fuzzy now. I just remember being scared...and alone." My fingers tighten unconsciously in your shirt. "There was a game, but no team with me. I kept missing spikes, my footing felt all wrong." I shake my head as if to dislodge the unsettling images. "Silly, I know. It's not like I don't mess up for real sometimes." A wry smile tugs at my mouth, but fades as quickly. Wrapping my arms more fully around your comforting solidness, I peer up at your face, visible by moonlight. "Thanks for chasing the fear away...I feel better just being close to you, Asp." Your steady heartbeat is a soothing balm, and I sigh contentedly.

I melt into your touch with a small hum of pleasure as nimble fingers card through my hair, your smile seeming to light the room better than the moon ever could. "You always help," I murmur gratefully, tucking my head under your chin. Your familiar scent and steady breathing have a calming effect I've never known with another. In these quiet moments, wrapped in your embrace, all seems right with the world. Your presence chases not only nightmares, but all doubt and worry too. I feel...cherished. Loved. Safe. It's an indescribable gift, one I strive daily to repay in kind. Lulled by your ministrations and the rise and fall of your chest, I yawn widely. "G'night, Asp. Sweet dreams...and thanks for being mine." I place a soft kiss to your collar then and snuggle impossibly closer, sinking blissfully into slumber in your arms.

A pleasant shiver runs through me at the gentle kiss pressed to my hair, your warm breath stirring the soft strands. Lifting sleepy lids, I gaze up with a tender smile to find your cheeks charmingly dusted with pink. My heart swells almost painfully in my chest. "Asp..." Your name escapes me on an exhale, filled with emotion too vast for mere words to contain. Shifting upwards, I brush our noses in a nuzzle before claiming your lips in a tender, languid kiss. All the feelings I've kept carefully tucked away come pouring forth unrestrained. When we part, forehead resting against yours, breath mingling in the scant space between us, I murmur: "I think I'm falling for you. Is...is that ok?" Nerves and hope battle within, awaiting your response with bated breath. Please say this is alright - say you feel it too. I don't think I could bear losing you...

Your shy reply and returned kiss send a wave of dizzying relief and joy crashing over me. When our lips part once more, I'm beaming brighter than the sun. "Aspen..." Kissing along your jawline, I nuzzle into your neck sweetly. "You have no idea how long I've wanted to hear that." Your arms come up to hold me close and I melt into your loving embrace with a contented sigh. "For so long it's just been you...you're everything to me." I pour my heart out into gentle kisses along your throat, unable to stop the overflowing emotions within. Finding your mouth again in a lingering kiss, I hope I can convey even a fraction of what you stir in my soul. "I promise I'll be the best boyfriend," I whisper against your lips, euphoria making me feel I could fly. You've made me the luckiest man on earth this night. I kiss you deeply once more then, holding you tightly as joy and finally finding slumber with a smile.

My heart soars as you return my kisses with matching fervor, leaving me breathless and dizzy with elation. Your eagerness sets my blood alight and I pour every ounce of longing I've suppressed for so long into our loving embrace. Arms winding tight around your waist, I pull you flush against me, needing to feel your heartbeat mingling with my own. Our lips seem to fuse together as natural as breathing, moving in perfect synchrony filled with care, trust and desire. A low groan escapes me at your passion, words utterly failing me in the face of such profound emotion. All that exists in this moment is you - your taste, your touch, the feel of supple lips moving with mine. I kiss you like a drowning man seeks air, hoping I can convey even an inkling of what you stir deep within my soul. Breathless and panting, I reluctantly tear my mouth from yours, resting our foreheads together as we both recover. Peering into your eyes shining with reciprocated love and want, I whisper: "You truly are everything to me, Aspen. I'm yours, completely and utterly yours."