"Just hang in there, Fuma-senpai," Taki said, moving with care. "We're almost there."
The show staff quickly noticed the commotion and rushed over, concern etched on their faces. "What happened?" one of the producers asked, her voice a mix of urgency and worry.
"He twisted his ankle," Jo replied, his tone serious. "We need to get him checked out."
"Alright, let's get him backstage," the producer said, directing them swiftly. "We'll get a medic in here."
As they navigated through the crowd, Fuma couldn't help but feel guilty. The challenge, meant to be lighthearted and fun, had turned into a moment of worry and chaos because of him. He watched his team continue the challenge, the energy still high, but his heart sank at the thought of being the reason they couldn't compete to the fullest.
"Senpai, focus on your ankle," Taki said, noticing his distraction. "We'll take care of the rest."
They finally reached a quieter area backstage, and the medic was already waiting with a first aid kit. Fuma was gently set down on a nearby bench as the medic approached, concern etched on their face.
"Alright, let's take a look at that ankle," the medic said, kneeling in front of Fuma.
Fuma winced as they gently lifted his foot, the throbbing pain still very much present. "It hurts," he admitted, unable to hide his discomfort any longer.
The medic nodded, carefully examining the swollen joint. "Looks like a classic sprain. You're going to need to keep off it for a bit, and we'll put some ice on it to help with the swelling."
"I can't just sit here," Fuma insisted, his voice laced with frustration. "My team is out there..."
"Your team wants you to be okay first," Taki reminded him, his expression serious. "They'll understand."
Jo stood nearby, arms crossed, a worried frown still etched on his face. "We'll win this for you, Fuma," he said quietly. "Just focus on getting better."
Fuma looked at his teammates, feeling a wave of gratitude mixed with guilt. He wanted to be out there with them, but the pain in his ankle was a harsh reminder that he couldn't.
As the medic wrapped his ankle and placed ice on it, Fuma took a deep breath. "I'm sorry," he said again, this time more quietly.
"Stop saying that," Taki said gently, but firmly. "You're not letting anyone down. This happens in sports. You've taught us to look out for each other, remember? Now it's our turn to look out for you."
Fuma nodded, a small smile breaking through his earlier frustration. "Thanks, guys. I appreciate it."
Once the medic finished, Fuma leaned back against the bench, his heart racing with worry for his team. He wanted to cheer them on, to be part of the challenge, but he knew he needed to take care of himself first.
"Let's go check on them," Jo suggested, glancing back toward the challenge area.
"No, you stay here. Just keep resting," Taki insisted, shaking his head. "We'll fill you in."
Fuma nodded, feeling a mix of relief and anxiety. He trusted his team to give their all, and a part of him felt proud that they were motivated to win for him.
After a few minutes, he could hear the sounds of laughter and cheers from the challenge area. The atmosphere felt lighter, and he could picture his teammates racing around, determined to gather as many stickers as possible.
As time passed, Fuma tried to keep his mind off his injury, focusing instead on the noise from outside. He could hear snippets of encouragement and playful banter between his teammates, and it made his heart swell. They were doing this for him, and he couldn't help but feel grateful for their support.
A few minutes later, Taki and Jo returned, their expressions bright. "We did it! We won!" Taki exclaimed, a wide grin plastered on his face.
Fuma's heart soared. "Really? That's amazing!" he said, his spirits lifting.
Jo nodded, beaming. "We got the most stickers, just like you wanted. And we did it as a team, just like you taught us."
"See? You're the glue that holds us together, Fuma-senpai," Taki added, clapping a hand on Fuma's shoulder. "We couldn't have done it without you."
A warmth spread through Fuma at their words. "I'm so proud of you guys," he said, his voice filled with sincerity. "Thank you for everything."
Just then, one of the producers came over, a microphone in hand. "Fuma, would you like to say a few words to the viewers?"
Fuma hesitated, unsure. "I don't want to distract from the challenge..."
"Just share your thoughts. The fans love you," the producer encouraged.
Taking a deep breath, Fuma nodded and took the microphone. "Hello, everyone! I just wanted to say thank you for all your support. Even though I couldn't participate in the challenge, my team worked so hard, and I'm so proud of them. Remember, it's not just about winning; it's about teamwork and supporting each other."
His heart swelled as he spoke, the warmth of his team surrounding him.
"And please remember to take care of yourselves, too. Your health is the most important thing," he added, a sincere note in his voice.
As he finished, the producer smiled, handing the microphone back to him.
"Thank you, Fuma. You've shown true leadership today," she said, walking away with a satisfied nod.
Once the segment wrapped up, Jo and Taki exchanged looks, grinning. "You really are the best sub-leader," Jo said, pride radiating from him.
Fuma chuckled, feeling a wave of warmth spread through him. "I couldn't do it without you guys."
As the day wore on, Fuma rested, propped up on the bench while his teammates continued to celebrate their victory. They took turns checking in on him, ensuring he was comfortable.
"Let's get you some snacks!" Taki announced, rushing off to grab something from the catering area.
"You've got to keep your strength up," Jo said, settling beside Fuma again. "We're all worried about you."
Fuma smiled, appreciating their care. "Thanks, Jo. I really am okay. Just need some time to heal."
"Right," Jo replied, though his tone remained serious. "But you have to promise us you'll take it easy."
"I promise," Fuma assured him, feeling the sincerity in Jo's gaze.
The day continued with laughter and playful teasing, the bond between the members growing stronger as they rallied around Fuma.
Eventually, as they wrapped up for the day, Taki returned with snacks in hand. "I got your favorite!" he said, presenting a box of sweet pastries.
Fuma's eyes lit up. "You know me too well," he grinned, accepting the treat gratefully.
As he took a bite, he felt a sense of contentment wash over him. Despite the challenges he faced, he was surrounded by people who genuinely cared for him.
"Let's eat together!" Jo suggested, joining Taki on the other side of the bench.
Fuma nodded, feeling grateful for the moment. As they shared stories and laughter, he couldn't help but think about how much he had learned from his teammates.
Later that night, as Fuma settled into bed, he reflected on the day's events. He felt a sense of pride not just in their victory, but in the way they had all come together.
Even though he hadn't been able to compete, he realized that being a leader wasn't just about winning; it was about fostering a sense of unity and support. And in that moment, he knew he had achieved just that.