**Chapter 24: Facing the Truth**

The tension between them was palpable, and for a moment, they just sat there in silence. Hinata's hand on his shoulder was a gentle reminder that he wasn't alone, but Kageyama couldn't shake off the feeling of guilt and shame. He knew he had let Hinata down, and himself. Hinata's expression softened, and he said, "Kageyama, I know it's not easy. But you can't keep pretending that everything is fine when it's not. You have to face the truth and take care of yourself." Kageyama looked up, meeting Hinata's gaze. He saw the concern and empathy there, and it made him feel even more ashamed. "I...I don't know, Hinata," Kageyama stammered, feeling a lump form in his throat. "I just feel like I'm failing, like I'm not strong enough." Hinata's grip on his shoulder tightened. "You're not failing, Kageyama. You're just struggling. And that's okay. We all struggle sometimes. But what's important is that you're not giving up. You're here, and you're trying." Hinata's words were like a balm to Kageyama's soul. He felt a small spark of hope ignite within him. Hinata stood up and said, "Let's go talk to the doctor. We'll figure this out together." Kageyama nodded, feeling a sense of determination wash over him. He knew he had to face the truth and take responsibility for his actions. As they walked to the doctor's office, Kageyama couldn't help but think about the road ahead. He knew it wouldn't be easy, but with Hinata by his side, he felt a sense of reassurance. When they arrived at the doctor's office, the doctor looked up from his notes and said, "Ah, Kageyama, Hinata. I see you're here to talk about your medication." Kageyama nodded, feeling a sense of trepidation. The doctor's expression was kind but firm. "Kageyama, I know you're not taking your medication as directed. I can see it in your eyes. You're struggling, and that's okay. But you have to be honest with me and with yourself. What's going on?" Kageyama took a deep breath and let it all out – his fears, his doubts, his struggles. The doctor listened attentively, nodding along as Kageyama spoke. When he finished, the doctor said, "Okay, let's try something different. We can adjust your medication, and I want you to come in for regular check-ups. And I want Hinata to be involved in your recovery process." Kageyama nodded, feeling a sense of relief wash over him. Hinata placed a hand on his shoulder, and Kageyama felt a sense of gratitude towards his teammate. He knew he still had a long way to go, but with Hinata by his side, he felt like he could face anything. The doctor handed him a new prescription and said, "Let's work together to get you back on track, Kageyama. You're not alone in this." As they left the doctor's office, Kageyama felt a sense of hope that he hadn't felt in a long time. He knew he still had to face challenges, but he was ready to face them head-on. With Hinata's support and the doctor's guidance, he felt like he could overcome anything. And as they walked back to the hospital room, Kageyama smiled weakly at Hinata, feeling a sense of gratitude and appreciation for his teammate. "Thanks, Hinata," Kageyama said, his voice barely above a whisper. Hinata smiled back and said, "Anytime, Kageyama. We're in this together." And in that moment, Kageyama knew that he wasn't alone, and that with Hinata by his side, he could face the truth and overcome his struggles.