The afterglow of the race still lingered over the training grounds. The spectators were still cheering, while many of the racers had already gone their separate ways.
Some gathered in small groups, chattering excitedly about the highlights of the race and bursting into laughter from time to time.
Others leaned against the railings beside the track, using them to stretch their legs or massage their sore, swollen muscles.
After watching T.M. Opera O and Mikki Rocket share their feelings and blessings with smiles from the sidelines for a while, Kitasan Black quietly made her way off the track without a word.
After taking a few steps, she could not help looking back for a moment, warmth welling up in her heart.
She was now more certain than ever that her decision to convey her feelings through her actions had been the right one.
Following that train of thought, she could not help recalling Tokai Teio's sudden invitation before the training camp.
It was precisely because of that invitation that she had thought of proving herself to T.M. Opera O and Mikki Rocket through her own running.
Now that she thought about it... she had accomplished so many things because she had imitated her seniors, too.
After feeling gratified for a moment, she grew worried again when she turned away.
Looking down at the toes of her sneakers, darkened by sweat, and recalling the all-or-nothing strategy she had used on the Final Straight, she unconsciously rubbed her hair as her ear tips twitched.
Come to think of it, although I discussed it with A-Zhen beforehand, and he agreed with my idea...
It didn't seem like I performed very well, and if Teio-senpai saw this race, she'd probably... be a little dissatisfied too, right...?
Ugh... were so many of the things I'd