18.44- Manhua

As the autumn tournament drew near, Yuudai and Shoutarou found themselves at a crossroads. The once unbreakable bond between them was now strained, their communication reduced to awkward silences and unspoken words. Yuudai's struggle with the yips had not only affected his pitching but had also cast a shadow over their friendship. One evening, as they practiced late into the night under the glow of the stadium lights, Shoutarou finally mustered the courage to address the elephant in the room. Sitting side by side on the bench, sweat glistening on their foreheads, he turned to Yuudai and spoke softly, "We can't keep ignoring this, Yuu. I know something is bothering you, and I want to help." Yuudai, usually so stoic and composed, hesitated before finally opening up about his fears and insecurities. The pressure to perform, the weight of expectations, and the fear of letting Shoutarou down had all contributed to his struggles on the field. As he bared his soul to his friend, Shoutarou listened intently, his eyes filled with empathy and understanding. In that vulnerable moment, the barriers between them began to crumble. As they shared their deepest fears and rawest emotions, a newfound sense of closeness enveloped them. The air between them crackled with unspoken words, unspoken feelings that had lingered beneath the surface for far too long. With a renewed sense of camaraderie and trust, Yuudai and Shoutarou made a pact to face the challenges ahead together. As they stepped onto the field for the crucial tournament, their hearts beat as one, their bond stronger than ever. And as the clock struck 18:44, the final inning of the game, they knew that no matter the outcome, they had already won – each other's unwavering support and love.