The next morning, Ryoma finally returns to the gym with Aramaki. Hayakawa comes with them as usual, still serving as both Ryoma's bodyguard and driver. The moment they enter the building, Hayakawa heads straight for the bench nearest to the exit and sits down without a word, as though the bench has long since become his usual seat.
Hiroshi looks up first. The moment he realizes who has just walked through the entrance, his expression changes slightly, his eyes lingering on Ryoma for a second longer than usual.
Sera reacts almost the same way. He pauses what he is doing and looks toward Ryoma, his expression showing a brief flicker of surprise at the unexpected sight of him.
Even Nakahara takes a moment before saying anything. Then he walks over, his expression softens for a moment, relief and something close to emotion passing through his eyes at the sight of his fighter standing in front of him again.
