Chapter 74: Altering the Plot
In the spacious, well-lit school director's office, a plump, greasy-faced middle-aged man sat on a luxurious executive chair. His hands rested on the desk, and his expression exuded confidence and pride, with a glint of cunning calculation in his eyes. This man was none other than the school director.
"Those students from the so-called Generation of Miracles—no matter what happens — must always be on the court" he declared firmly to Sanada, who stood before him.
Sanada frowned, trying to voice his objection, but the director impatiently cut him off before he could speak.
"Their stellar performances are a major selling point for the school! Ever since they joined the basketball team, they haven't lost a single game. Isn't that the best way to promote our school?"
Sanada felt a wave of helplessness. He knew the director cared only about the players' commercial value, while he, as a coach, was more concerned about their well-being and future development.
"But they're just kids. Special treatment might negatively impact them..." Sanada's voice was tinged with concern, but the director interrupted again.
"I want you to treat them specially!" the director replied dismissively, a mocking smile playing on his lips.
Sanada clenched his teeth, frustration boiling inside him, but he held back. As a coach, he understood the director's power and influence, realizing that he was just a small player in this hierarchy.
"Just do your job and don't cause me any trouble" the director snapped, glaring at Naoto with disdain. His tone carried an air of superiority, as though Sanada's concerns were unworthy of his attention.
Sanada's face flushed with anger, but he dared not retaliate. His fists tightened, nails digging into his palms as he suppressed his fury. Against this overbearing superior, silence was his only option.
Sanada knew he couldn't change the situation. Despite his simmering anger and unwillingness to yield, he was powerless to challenge the director. His heart was filled with frustration and despair.
Bang!
Suddenly, the door to the office was violently kicked open, the lock tumbling to the floor with a loud clang.
The abrupt sound startled both Sanada and the director.
The director shot to his feet, slamming the desk with his palm. "Who the hell dares to act so brazenly here?!" he roared.
A figure slowly stepped through the doorway, their cold gaze fixed on the director as if looking at an insect.
"What? Do you have a problem with me?" came the icy, emotionless voice.
The director's face instantly paled when he saw who had entered. His oily smile quickly replaced his anger, and his tone turned obsequious. "Oh, my! If it isn't Mr Kawakami! What an honor to have you here! Blame that darn door for being in your way — I'll have it removed next time!"
The director waddled over to Shiro, trembling as he tried to curry favor, his face plastered with a sycophantic grin.
He knew the immense influence of the Kawakami family. If he could ingratiate himself with their young master, his future would be assured.
Watching the director's shameless display, Sanada felt a wave of disgust but also a flicker of fear for Shiro.
He never imagined that the boy he had known for so long came from such a powerful and intimidating background.
"I'll keep it simple: stay out of the basketball team's business. Got it?" Shiro's voice was deep and magnetic. Though phrased as a question, his tone brooked no argument, mirroring the same commanding manner the director had used earlier.
The director shuddered, nodding repeatedly. "Ah, yes! Understood!" His attitude was utterly deferential, even servile, clearly terrified of upsetting Hiroshi.
Satisfied with the response, Shiro said no more. He turned and strode out of the office without hesitation.
With Shiro gone, the room fell silent. The atmosphere between Sanada and the director grew awkward.
The director coughed twice, attempting to dispel the tension. He sat back in his chair, adopting a posture of false authority, though his tone had softened considerably. "Well... since that's settled, I won't interfere with the basketball team anymore. You may leave now"
Sanada stood silently, watching the scene unfold. His eyes revealed disdain for the director's behavior but also a hint of respect for Shiro's presence. Without a word, he turned and left the office, not sparing the director another glance.
Once alone, the director sat back with a complex expression, lost in thought.
...
After dealing with the director, Shiro walked toward Momoi, who stood not far away.
"That dunk from Murasakibara today was incredible!" Momoi said, her head slightly lowered, her face tinged with worry.
"Yeah, it was" Shiro agreed, taking her hand and pulling her gently beside him.
"But at the same time, it scared me" Momoi continued, looking up at Shiro. "Seeing him improve so much so quickly... it reminded me of Aomine and how he changed"
She hesitated before asking, "Will everyone stay together? Will things still be the same between us?" Her eyes searched his, hoping for reassurance.
Shiro offered a gentle smile and patted her head. "Yes, don't worry. We'll always stay together." He didn't voice his deeper thoughts: as their skills grew, high school would inevitably lead them to separate paths.
Momoi felt a bit more at ease, but couldn't completely quell her worry. "But... if everyone keeps getting stronger, won't there come a day when we can't play together anymore?"
Shiro knew her concerns weren't unfounded. Over time, each of them would take different paths. But he didn't want her to worry unnecessarily. "Even if we're not on the same team, we'll still love basketball and enjoy the game. And our friendship will never change"
Momoi nodded, trusting his words. She believed that as long as their hearts remained connected, they could face whatever the future held.
"Thank you, Shiro" Momoi said with a smile, her eyes filled with newfound determination.
Shiro gently patted her shoulder and said warmly, "It's nothing, Momoi. Let's cherish these moments and give it our all."
Hand in hand, they walked down the long street, sharing a quiet, comforting moment.
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Well, guys, the Tokyo Ghoul fanfic has been suspended again on WebNovel. If it doesn't return, I will repost it, but in the meantime, it's also available on Scribble Hub.