Story Downloaded from Open Scrolls Archive (https://www.openscrolls.net)

Title: #krtsk Twitter Stories (#4582)
Author: isilelensar
Chapters: 18

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Archive: Haikyu!!
Category: Alternate Universe
Description: One shot shorts of moments during Kuroo's and Tsukishima's relationship. None of these are in any particular order. Written on my twitter acct, so formatting has been changed a lil... Also, mild use of swear words.
Published: 11 Nov 2021
Updated: 20 Nov 2021
Warnings: canondivergent, kurootsuki, fluff
Type: Romance
Characters: Kuroo Tetsuro, Tsukishima Kei


Chapter 1 - The Only Good Thing About Mornings… Is You

Kei Tsukishima is decidedly *not* a morning person. Super grumpy, no filter, take no prisoners, absolutely no fucks given, death ray glare, DO NOT talk to me... you get the drift.

Tetsuro Kuroo sees this and goes do or die mode to make Tsuki smile.

Challenge accepted.

Day 1 (Kuroo): Jokes not working. All I get is the death ray glare and a mumbled "fuck off" before he completely ignores me. Definite aura of gtfo, so I just leave him the cup of coffee I made.

I feel my face flush, and bite my lip with a tiny grin. Even grumpy, he's too cute.

Day 1 (Tsuki): It's too early for jokes. It's too early for smiles and happiness. It's too damned early. He needs to go away, so I tell him. But, there's a twinkle in his eyes, and his smile is bright.

*takes sip of coffee > eyebrow lift*

How does he know how I like my coffee?

~*~*~

Day 2 (Kuroo): Maybe making silly faces at random intervals is too much. And he's looking like he didn't get a lot of sleep, either. So much for that idea.

"Here," I set down another cup of coffee, a strawberry cheese danish, and walk away. "See you later... Tsuki."

Day 2 (Tsuki): "Don't call me that," I mutter as he leaves. I don't think he heard me. Whatever. I probably look like death warmed over, anyhow. I couldn't sleep; I couldn't get him out of my head.

*looks down at coffee and danish*

Great. He found out my breakfast pastry prefs.

~*~*~

Day 3 (Kuroo): Day is fucking ruined already. Who decides to start a meeting at 7am? This is ridiculous. Best part of my day is seeing Tsuki try not to smile. Maybe one day..

*runs into shop, makes his order*
*hastily scribbles note*
*realization dawns, he smiles*

Day restored.

Day Three (Tsuki): He's not here. Good. Dodged a bullet this morning. *checks watch* I know I'm not running late. *scans room again* Wonder what's keeping him...

*waitress serves him coffee and danish, hands him a note*
*realization sets in*

Oh no…

~*~*~

Day 4 (Kuroo): I'm beginning to see the merits of sleeping later in the mornings. This really is too early. I doubt he's even awake. *picks up bag of danishes and two coffees* Sunrises are overrated anyway. *turns around, sees Tsuki, and stops*

"Leaving so soon?"

Day 4 (Tsuki): "You made it."
"Well, yeah." I held up the note. "You asked me to meet you here."
He chuckles awkwardly. "Right." We just stare at each other for several minutes, or hours. Then, he holds up a bag and one coffee. "Wanna watch the sunrise with me?"

"Sure."

Day 4 cont. (Kuroo): Be cool, be calm. Be still my heart.
Don't spill the coffee. Don't drop the danishes. Don't act like you've just won the lottery.

Tsuki smiled! An actual, genuine, smile!
And it's so beautiful. Just like I knew it would be. Just like him.

Day 4 cont. (Tsuki): There are no words to describe Kuroo's reaction. Caught somewhere between ecstatic and bemused, I think. I take the coffee and bag from him, and he starts strolling along, until we find a place to sit.

"I'm glad you came," he said quietly.
"So am I."

~*~*~

a/n: there's only one reason Tsuki will ever be awake so early in the morning... and that's Kuroo. #krtsk


Chapter 2 - The Surprise That Wasn’t

a/n: in which Tsuki ruins Kuroo's surprise inadvertently. #krtsk

~*~*~

“What... is that?" Tendo asks as he points at Kuroo's ... creation.
"Chocolate cupcake," Kuroo muttered.
"Chocolate cupcake," Tendo repeats, looking quite amused.
Kuroo squints. "So, I'm not good at baking. That's why I'm here."
Tendo laughs. "Alright. Let's get started."

Kuroo takes his baking lesson seriously, following all Tendo's directions perfectly. While they wait for the final result to come out of the oven, Kuroo sees Tendo's curious expression.

"It's for Tsuki."
"I'd guessed that much," Tendo replied. "But, why now?"
"Uhhh... Valentine's Day?"
"Again, why now? You've been together for a few years, right? I'm only guessing this is the very first attempt at giving him chocolate."
"Not the first attempt at giving. First at making. Big difference."
"A diversion. Nice try. Answer the question."

Kuroo knew Tendo was enjoying the fuck out of watching him squirm. The man had a sadistic way of teasing people relentlessly, but somehow making it seem rather harmless. Still, it didn't negate the fact that he needed to answer the question, or suffer more teasing.

"I'm going to ask him to marry me," he finally grumbled. He'd only just told Bokuto and Akaashi the other day. Now, Tendo knew it, too, and he wasn't sure the man could keep a secret.
"Congratulations!" Tendo cheered. "Also, about damned time."
"Yeah, well, thanks."

The cupcake came out perfectly, and Kuroo did his best at decorating it. While he thought it looked like the perfect train wreck, Tendo assured him it was fine. They boxed it up, and Kuroo tried to pay, but Tendo just shoved him out the door.

"Consider it a wedding present!"
"Thanks, man!" Kuroo yelled as he ran to catch the bus. He had a few hours before meeting Tsuki, and he had to get ready.

Meanwhile: Tendo went back inside to find a particular blonde standing all teary-eyed and smiling and flustered, in the middle of his empty restaurant.

*later that evening*

"You're not surprised?" Kuroo asked, maybe just a little bit disappointed.
Tsuki shook his head. "I already knew."
"How, though? Was it Tendo? It was Tendo, wasn't it?"
"Yes. And no."
"ARGH!! I shouldn't have told him!! Wait. Now, I'm confused."

Tsuki hands him a white box, tied with a gold ribbon, identical to the one Kuroo handed him. 'Tendo's Confectionary' was in swirly cursive across both boxes. Inside each box was a chocolate cupcake, decorated in perfect train wreck fashion.

"I was there. For the same reason."


Chapter 3 - Clever Costuming

a/n: attempted Halloween hijinks, #krtsk style.

~*~*~

It was Halloween. For fun, Kuroo and Tsuki decided to surprise each other by revealing their costumes at the party. Both were convinced they had the perfect costume. Therein lied the problem…

"I don't know..." Tsuki said, several hours earlier. "I mean, it's not really that creative."
"Have you ever worn that in front of him?" Bokuto asked from the room across the hall. He was going as a vampire.
"Technically, no."
"What do you mean... 'technically?'"
"Just what it sounds like. I haven't worn it all at once."
"Well, now you're wearing all of it at the same time. I don't see the issue."
"Maybe there isn't one, and I'm just nervous," Tsuki said to himself. "As long as he doesn't notice it's missing, I guess."

*Meanwhile, across town*

"Well, it's certainly... different," Akaashi said, hiding a laugh.
"Yeah, well, I couldn't think of anything else."
"Like two peas in a pod," Akaashi muttered to himself. If Kuroo heard it, he didn't let on. Of course, he and Bokuto knew their secret.
"Maybe next year, we can do something more elaborate."
"Like what? Shakespearean characters?" Akaashi asked, only half-serious.
"Yeah, sure. Only I doubt Tsuki would dress up as Juliet," he replied sarcastically.
"You totally would, though."
"Don't make me throw my shoe at you."

*Later at the party*

The plan was to split up, arrive separately, and stay apart for as long as possible. The idea was to surprise each other with their costumes, and also to see if they really did think alike, as they were so often accused of by friends and family alike.

Bokuto and Tsuki arrived first. No one looked twice at Bokuto. Clearly, this wasn't the first time he'd gone as a vampire. However, Tsuki managed to capture everyone's attention. They did double takes, stared, and some rubbed their eyes in disbelief. This wasn't going to be easy.

Akaashi and Kuroo arrived later, and the reactions were identical to Bokuto's and Tsuki's. No one paid much attention to Akaashi, even if he had bloody bite marks on his neck. It was Kuroo who got the stares, disbelieving looks, and double takes.

And then the plan fell apart.

Some guy, dressed as Moses, roared into the crowd, commanding them to part, much like the Red Sea.
The crowd responded with alacrity, splitting into two parts, leaving a wide path from Kuroo to Tsuki.
There was only silence for several minutes.
Until they both started laughing.

Tsuki had borrowed Kuroo's Nekoma home uniform and jacket. Kuroo was wearing Tsuki's Karasuno home uniform, jacket, and even wore knee pads.

They weren't really that surprised.
They did think alike.
They were declared the most creatively un-creative costumed pair that night.


Chapter 4 - Homecoming

a/n: in which our favorite pair becomes a family of five. #krtsk

~*~*~

"Kei, stop pacing. The train will be here any second," Keiji assures him, for the millionth time.
"Sorry," he apologizes, sitting down next to his best friend and 'adopted' brother. "I can't wait. They'll be here soon."
He checks his phone for any updates or pictures.

"Anything?"
Kei hands over his phone. "Mom sent that. The boys are out cold in a heap on the futon."
"Something tells me we'd have done the same thing if we grew up together, too." Keiji's face radiates with happy tenderness.
"Kinda wish we had," Kei agrees.
"Yeah, same."

A text pops up with a message from Mom:

'You promised to send pictures. Don't forget!'
'I won't. But it might be a little while before I do, okay?'
'Don't make me wait so long you'll be home before I get them.'
'Promise I won't. Gotta go, Mom. I can hear the train!'

Kei practically races to the closest spot he could get to and not be too close to the tracks. Keiji calmly stands next to him. Once the train stops, the doors open, and first out is Bokuto, who is smiling so brightly, everyone around him smiles, too.

Right behind him, holding a small bundle in his arms, is Tetsu. He's smiling down at the bundle, and a tiny arm and hand reach out, touching his face.

Kei doesn't wait a second longer. Ignoring everyone, he races to Tetsu, and kisses his face. Then, he looks down at the baby. "She's beautiful," he whispers, holding out his finger for her to take in her tiny hand. His heart melts the second she does.

"Do you want to name her?" they ask at the same time. They hear Bokuto snort and Akaashi chuckle. "I thought I'd wait for you," they say again.

The sound of a camera going off makes them raise their heads and blink owlishly at their brothers, both of whom had already taken several pictures.

"I guess the news is out," Tetsu said as they move away from the train. "We're dads again."

"Our sons have a new little sister."


Chapter 5 - What Happens In Tokyo...

a/n: in which Kuroo is banned from planning date nights for the squad indefinitely. #krtsk

~*~*~

"It is indeed a problem for us to probosculate upon," Kuroo said grandly, looking very thoughtful.
"You do that," Tsuki replied sardonically. "The rest of us will try to figure it out."
"Wait. What are we trying to figure out?" Bokuto asks.

That was the entire question.

The squad had gone out on a double date while Tsuki was in Tokyo. It had been pretty standard, as far as dates went: walking around Shinjuku Gyoen, window shopping, and finally dinner. They all remembered going out for karaoke and dancing, but that's when things got fuzzy.

"I remember ordering drinks for everyone at the first club," Kuroo offered thoughtfully. "Tsuki favored the strawberry daquiris," he finished with a wink at his blondie.

"And no one even blinked that you were buying alcohol for a minor," Tsuki groused, but he returned the wink.
"Two minors," Akaashi added, joining the conversation. "I'm only a year older than you," he nodded at Tsuki.
"Thanks for reminding me that I'm the youngest member, Akaashi-senpai."
"You're so cute when you're sarcastic," Kuroo interrupted.
"Shut up," Tsuki bit back.

"Okay, so it sounds like the four of us got drunk, or buzzed," Bokuto attempted to wrangle everyone back to the original issue. Which confused everyone, because he usually instigated the problem rather than trying to solve it.

"Just how much did we drink?"
"Keyword: first club."
"Tsuki kept begging for strawberry daquiris," Kuroo practically sang.
"I did not!"
"Did too."
"Did not!"
"There they go," Bokuto said, grinning.
"Guess we should wait," Akaashi deadpanned.
"Did too."
"Did not, ohmigod!"
"Should we stop them?"
"Nah. They'll stop eventually."

"If I remember correctly, we lost both Bokuto and Akaashi after their solitary Long Island Ice Teas," Kuroo said while dodging Tsuki's half-hearted slap.
"No way!" Now Bokuto was offended. "I can drink more than that, and be just fine!"
"It was a tall glass," Kuroo rebutted.

That's when they figured it out.

Tsuki squinted at his boyfriend.
Akaashi went full facepalm.
Bokuto was beside himself.

Clearly, Kuroo got them all drunk, sat back, and watched what happened. It didn't mean he stayed sober, but he didn't have as much as the rest of them did.


Chapter 6 - A Surprise That's Totally Worth It

a/n: in which a thoroughly smitten Tetsu gets sick over a surprise. #krtsk

~*~*~

"You dumbass. What were you thinking going outside, in the cold, in the rain, in just a pair of shorts?" Kei asked as he walked into their bedroom, his voice heavy with irritation. "Was it really so important to do... wait. What exactly were you doing out there, anyway?"

Tetsu turned to look at his husband. They'd only been married a few months, but it still felt brand new. Of course, nothing said 'I love you' quite like being bitched at for doing something stupid. He could have waited for a better day, honestly. But once the idea took hold…

"You'll see," Tetsu said, which clearly wasn't the answer Kei wanted. "Give it a few weeks."

He could see the outward signs of anger building on Kei's face, but his eyes showed what he truly felt: there was worry, concern, and that 'what am I going to do with you?' look.

Kei said nothing and left, only to return a few minutes later carrying a tray. He set it up at Tetsu's bedside, and then sat down on the bed beside him. With gentle hands, Kei checked for fever, brushed his hair away from his eyes, and placed a cool towel on his forehead.

There was a moment where Tetsu almost told Kei what he'd been doing, but he wanted it to be a surprise. He loved surprising Kei, even if Kei didn't really care too much for surprises. It was all worth it seeing the happiness glowing in those golden brown eyes he loved so much.

"Are you hungry? I can make you something," Kei offered softly. "Or maybe something cool to drink?"
Tetsu smirked and was about to respond with a smartass remark, but held it back when Kei put a finger to his lips. Now, Kei was irritated; it was in his eyes.
"Anything is fine," Tetsu answered simply. "I'll eat whatever you make for me."
"You always have," Kei replied. "Anything specific?"
"Egg and rice porridge."
He was rewarded with a gentle smile.
"Egg and rice porridge," Kei repeated as he stood up. "Be right back."

Being cared for like this was something new for Tetsu, and he wouldn't change it for the world. Turning his head, he looked out the window at the bright blue sky. Hindsight being 50/50, he should have waited until today to plant his surprise. But he didn't want to forget.

*4 weeks later*

Tetsu guided Kei outside, his love's eyes covered with a blindfold. "Just a little further," he said excitedly. He stopped a few steps later, and positioned Kei so he would see his surprise. "Are you ready?"

"How can I not be? Your excitement is contagious."

Tetsu smiled and reached behind Kei's head to untie the blindfold, but not before he stole a kiss. "I love you," he whispered against Kei's lips.
"I love you, too," Kei replied, kissing him back. "Seriously, though. Did you bring me out here to make out, or what?"
"Smartass."
"Have you met me?"
"Don't tempt me to take you up on the making out part."
"As if that would actually stop you."
"Accurate. However," Tetsu moved so that Kei could see his surprise. The brilliant white blooms were practically glowing in the sunlight.

"They're beautiful, Tetsu! Where did you find them?" Kei exclaimed, immediately kneeling down in front of the cluster of amaryllis.
"Online. Couldn't resist," he said with a little shrug. "I knew you'd love them."
"Just like the desert roses and hibiscus."
"Exactly."


Chapter 7 - The Day He Lost His Heart

a/n: in which a certain blonde middle blocker loses his heart to the captain of Nekoma vbc. #krtsk

~*~*~

The heat was unbearable. There were no clouds in the sky, so no relief there. Tsuki almost wilted under the trees at Shinzen. It's cooler here, they said. And maybe it was, but right now, it felt like a thousand degrees. Which was only slightly less than inside the gym.

It was his third year of high school, so that meant he was the only one left of the squad. Kuroo, Bokuto, and Akaashi were all in college. But even if they kept the group chat going strong, it was still lonely at camp without them. He missed them.

But he missed Kuroo more.

"HEY TSUKI!!" Bokuto's loud, boisterous voice echoed across the school grounds. Tsuki slowly turned around to see the three of them walking toward him. He quickly stood up to meet them, caught somewhere between 'what are you doing here,' and 'I'm so happy to see you!'

They all took turns greeting him with hugs. It wasn't lost on him that Kuroo held on just a little bit longer.

"Come on. Let's get out of here," Bokuto said first.
"Yeah. We need to beat this heat," Kuroo added.
"But what about..." Tsuki started to speak, but Akaashi stopped him.
"If we leave now, we can be back long before anyone misses you," he said completely straight-faced.
"I've heard that one before," Tsuki muttered, but still, he smiled. "Well? What are we waiting for?"
Kuroo grabbed his hand and they ran as if their lives depended on it.

"COWABUNGA!!!"

It sounded as if a huge boulder had just been dropped into a large body of water, when it was just Bokuto doing a cannonball off the high dive at the pool. Water went everywhere, splashing those unlucky enough to be close by. Including Tsuki and Kuroo.

"Well, I guess it can't be helped," Kuroo suddenly said, feigning an air of resignation. "Challenge accepted."
"Good grief. Always have to one up each other." Tsuki smirked up at him.
"Well, there's gotta be something he's terrible at. Maybe it'll be doing cannonballs."
"I don't know," Akaashi said as he sat down beside Tsuki, handing him a drink. "That one was one of his biggest splashes."
"Is it now?"
"Don't encourage him," Tsuki groaned.
"Too late," Kuroo laughed. Then he reached down for Tsuki's hand. "Come with me."
"You need help?"
"Well, no. Just come with me."

Tsuki didn't put up too much of a fight as Kuroo pulled him up. He stumbled a bit, and he felt Kuroo's arms go around him to keep him steady. His heart raced in his chest. His eyes found Kuroo's, who looked as flustered as he felt.

"You okay?"
"Yeah, sure."
"Your face is red."
"So is yours."
Kuroo tightened his hold a little, and reached up to lightly run a fingertip around Tsuki's face. And then, there was another huge splash, and they broke apart, blushing harder and apologizing too much.

Kuroo smiled, bit his lip, and scrubbed a hand through his usually messy hair, all while staring at Tsuki. "Come on," he said, taking Tsuki's hand again. They walked along the side of the pool, silent, and exchanging awkward looks and smiles, trying to look cool while doing it.

The next thing Tsuki knew, a group of children raced by too close; one of them ran right into him. He lost his balance while keeping the kid on his feet, and fell into Kuroo. Once again, Kuroo wrapped his arms around Tsuki as they fell into the pool. They came up for air almost immediately, but Kuroo didn't let go of Tsuki this time.

Time stopped.
It was as if they were the only ones in the pool.
No one, no sound, registered.
Tsuki reached up and traced a fingertip around Kuroo's face, and stared into those dark honey eyes.

"I think I love you, Kuroo," he whispered.
"Just think?" Kuroo asked.
Tsuki shook his head. He tried to say it again, but couldn't past the lump of feels in his throat. Kuroo understood, as he always seemed to do when Tsuki couldn't find his words.

"I love you, too, Tsuki."


Chapter 8 - A Different Feast For Golden Week

a/n: in which the squad feasts during Golden Week. #krtsk

~*~*~

"How's it going over there?" Kei asked from the table. "Need help?"
"Nah," Tetsu replied, checking the slow cooker again, and stirring the contents. "It's almost ready, honestly." He replaced the lid and turned to smile at Kei. "Heard anything from Kou or Keiji, yet?"

"They'll be here shortly. Keiji wanted to pick up something sweet for dessert."

They were all off for Golden Week, and Kei had come down from Miyagi to spend it with his friends. It was the first time since Kei entered college that they could all get together.

Naturally, this meant that they all would try their hands at cooking something new, and something decidedly not Japanese. Well, everyone cooked except Kou, who was absolutely terrible at cooking. None of them had forgotten the time he actually managed to burn water.

The first night's offering was Tetsu's slow cooker spicy chili. He'd done all the prep work and assembly himself, and he was looking rather proud, if Kei had anything to say about it. Smirking at his lover, Kei slowly stood up and went to where Tetsu stood at the counter.

Lifting a spoon from the counter, he took the lid off, and tasted a small amount.

"Well?"
"Deep subject."
"Smartass."
"Naturally."
A moment's pause, and, "What's your verdict?"
"It's really good. Not too spicy." Kei wrapped his arm around Tetsu's waist. "But then, I'm biased."
"I'm glad you like it. I made it with you in mind."
"How sweet of you!"
"You're in rare form today."
Kei blinked as if he hadn't realized how he was speaking.
"I - I didn't..."
Tetsu kissed him into silence. "It's okay. Lord knows how much you've had to deal with me sometimes."

"We all know that," Kou said from the doorway. "Thanks for letting us in, by the way."
"Dude, you have a key," Tetsu said, glaring at his best friend. "The least you could've done was knock, or let us know you were here."
"He did," Keiji defended his boyfriend. "You were busy. Where do we put the food?" he asked, looking down at the table.
"Oh, right," Kei replied, letting go of Tetsu and returning to the table. "I was prepping tomorrow's dinner." He took the bags from Keiji and set them down on the nearest empty surface. "What did you bring?"
"Chocolate cake."
"We're not going to be able to move after dinner," Tetsu quipped. "Spicy chili, cornbread, green beans, and Keiji's chocolate cake."
"Should we change into our sweats?"
"That idea is not without merit."
"We'll go put our stuff up."
"Good idea."

*Later that evening*

"Put that on the list of 'Things To Make On A Regular Basis,'" Kou moaned. "Oh, I ate too much."
"I did, too," Tetsu groaned.
"Silver lining: we have no leftovers," Kei said, chuckling.
"But we're going to need a hand truck to move them," Keiji deadpanned.

The rest of the week was spent in prime squad fashion. They went to various neighborhood festivals and played tourist, going around to all points of interest, including the Skytree and Tokyo Tower. Then, they came home and cooked dinner, which was their favorite part of all.


Chapter 9 - Best. Ever. Family. Vacation.

a/n: in which our favorite pair goes on a family vacation, and celebrates their wedding anniversary. #krtsk

~*~*~

It was in the wee hours of the morning when they arrived in Sapporo. Tetsu was carrying Akira, who was out cold, and Jun was sleeping soundly in the twins' stroller. Kei carried Megumi, who was making sweet little baby noises, obviously wide awake and wired for sound.

"I really hope she doesn't take after Kou and his non-existent sleeping habits," Kei muttered as they walked to the lobby of the hotel they were staying at.

"To be fair, she did sleep almost the entire trip here," Tetsu chided gently. "She's probably ready to play."

Kei sighed happily and nodded. "You're right. Good thing we have adjoining suites. The boys can sleep without being bothered."

"And she can play as much as she wants before falling asleep again," Tetsu added. "Once we get the boys settled, I'll take over with her, if you want."

"It's okay. You worked extra hours and barely slept before we left Sendai. I'm still awake, for now. You'll need to rest if we're going to go to the orchard in the morning." He paused as they walked into the lobby and a bellhop put their luggage on a trolley.

When Tetsu finished checking them in, they made their way to the elevator, and then to their suite. The bellhop helped unload their stuff, and Tetsu tipped him handsomely. It took another thirty minutes before they were settled enough for the night.

"Kou, Keiji, and the boys will be here in a few hours," Kei reminded his husband. "One of us should be there to meet them."
Tetsu smiled gently. "Small hint that it should be me, huh?"
"Who else? Besides, we'll probably still be asleep."
"Right. See you in the morning, then."

The next few days were spent doing pretty much anything they wanted to. It was their first family vacation, and they made the most of it. Since they were there in October, and because the weather was agreeable, they went to the Autumn Festival and enjoyed the food.

They took the boys to the orchard multiple times, letting them run amok, as well as pick a few apples. They even tried horseback riding, which wasn't as much of a hit as they thought it would be. Still, they had fun, which is all that really mattered.

It started raining the day they left Sapporo for Hakodate, but since the train ride took six hours (forever for Kou and four little boys), they could rest (or at least try to) before settling in their hotel, and then going out to eat.

"Are you having fun, yet?" Tetsu asked, snuggling his husband closer.
"Very much." Kei leaned in for a kiss. "Happy anniversary, my love."
"Happy anniversary." He pulled Kei against him and kissed him deeply. "I'm glad the boys and Megumi are with their cousins tonight, too."
"Yeah, well, we get them all tomorrow night, remember?"
"But that's tomorrow night. 24 hours. Until then, you're all mine."
"And you're all mine."
Tetsu shifted so that he was on top, his face only inches from Kei's. "I love you, you know."
"I have been informed of this fact."
"And have you also been informed that I'll always love you?"
"Oh, indeed." Kei stared up into Tetsu's eyes. "It's been about nine years, hasn't it?"
Tetsu nodded. "Almost a decade. Kinda amazing, isn't it?"
"Absolutely mind-blowing."
"Know what else is mind-blowing?"
"I have a feeling you're about to show me."
"Damn right, I am."
From that point on, they spoke without words. They didn't need them. Love was all they needed, and it was just as strong now as it was the day they met.


Chapter 10 - That Moment

a/n: in which Tsuki realizes he's smitten with Kuroo. #krtsk

~*~*~

This is ridiculous.
Too damn early.
Maybe I should have chosen a later train.
The fact that I fell asleep within minutes of taking my seat, and then waking up at the train station in Saitama...
I guess it's a good thing I chose an early train.
At least I won't be late. Much.

This is so embarrassing.
Just a short train ride back to Tokyo station, and I nearly fell asleep again!
Good thing the conductor figured out what was going on, because clearly, I was too fuzzy headed.
I look at my watch. 5:15am.
Better late than never, I guess.

I exit the train a bit wobbly.
Can't help it if the rest of me wants to just lay down and sleep for days.
But now, everyone is staring.
NO, I'm not drunk, I wanted to tell them, because that was obviously what they were thinking.
Someone remind me why I'm even here..

How is it even this crowded so early in the morning?!
Don't people know how to sleep?!
I mean, it's not even a fucking holiday. Just a normal fucking weekend in the middle of a month with no holidays.
Wait. Is there even a month with no holidays?
Whatever.

Shit. This isn't even the right platform!
I look around for a map, or something, to tell me where I need to go.
It doesn't look far, maybe it won't take too long?
Said the half-asleep high school student.
Well, better get moving.
Pray to god and all that's holy I don't get lost.

Maybe it is a holiday?
That would explain the inordinate amount of people here.
Or, it could just be average traffic for a Friday morning. Whatever.
I hate crowds. This is stupid.
I check my watch. 5:34am. I was supposed to be there at 5.
I check my phone. No messages. Well.

Checking the signs, I made it to my original destination. Now, to find him.
He's tall, like me, so he'd be easy to spot.
Dark, messy hair. Eyes the color of dark honey.
Magnetic personality.
I couldn't really say no to his invitation to visit Tokyo without cover of the team.

Cursory glance says he's not here.
Maybe he's late, too?
That would at least make me feel slightly better, I guess.
I see some benches. Might as well wait for him.
Upon approach, the crowds dissipate enough for me to see him.
Looks like he made it after all, but...
He's asleep.

Bokuto-san had said something at summer camp about That Moment when you fall in love with volleyball.
But this... this is in the middle of a train station at 5:57 in the morning. Nearly an hour late, yet...
I slowly make my way over, and sit down next to him.

When I muster enough courage to look, I see his eyes are open, and there's a little smile playing at his lips.
"Glad you could make it." His voice is raspy, perhaps a little deeper than normal. Still, it sends a shiver up my spine.
"Yeah. Sorry I'm late."

That smile widened, and his eyes sparkled. He was laughing at me.

"I fell asleep on the way down."
"Somehow, this does not surprise."
"Smartass."
"Have you met me?"
"Only twice."

He lifted his head, but kept his eyes on me.

"I fell asleep around 4, the last time I checked."
"4?! When did you get here?"
"When did you leave Sendai?"
"That long, huh?"

He bit his lip, trying not to laugh. Oh god.
"Your face is red."
"So is yours."
"How do you know if you're looking everywhere else but at me?"
"Lucky guess?"
"Lucky guess."

I turn my eyes back to him, and his smile is even brighter. He looks incredibly happy.
The next time I see Bokuto-san, I'm going to throw a ball at his head. That Moment was supposed to be for volleyball, not for the captain of the Nekoma VBC!
And yet...
And yet.

"Come on. My place isn't far. You can sleep when we get there."

I stood up, but wobbled. Kuroo-san reaches out to steady me, his hands gently gripping my arms. When I've got my balance, his hands slip away, slightly squeezing my hands before he lets go completely.

I follow him out of the train station and to the waiting cabs. I can feel sleep trying to take over, but I do my best to fight it. Before I know it, we're at his house, and he's guided me to the couch.

"Sleep well, Tsuki."
"But..."
"No buts. Sleep. We have all weekend to play."


Chapter 11 - That Moment (Kuroo's Version)

a/n: in which Kuroo falls for a certain blonde middle blocker from Karasuno High. #krtsk

~*~*~

It had been five years since our schools played together. I looked forward to this first meeting with a weird sort of anticipation. A crazy feeling I had no words for, couldn't explain if I tried. My heart raced, and yet I also felt calm.

We lined up. And then I saw him.

Tall, lanky, blonde hair that looked like the wind played with it. Golden brown eyes enhanced by black-rimmed glasses. His face was a complete blank, no emotion. I doubt anyone really looked past that to see what he truly felt. He intrigued me, and I wanted to know more.

Unfortunately, we had a game to play, so that took priority. However, I could put my observational skills to use (and didn't that sound like I knew what I was doing?) and gather what info I could. The more we played, the more drawn I was to him.

1. He's a middle blocker; a fairly decent one, too.
2. He doesn't like their setter. At all.
3. He barely tolerates their #10.
4. He seems to be close friends with their #12.
5. He doesn't seem to like playing volleyball, or maybe it's just indifference.
6. He's not having fun.

We win in straight sets, and I try to find an excuse to go over and strike up a conversation. But Chibi-chan wants to play again. Coach Nekomata has zero problem with this, and neither does their coach. I guess I lost my chance. Ruefully, I turn and get ready for the next match.

For the rest of our time there, we're caught in what feels like a never ending match. Everyone, including me, can't get enough, even when we're slowly running out of steam. Tsukishima (my listening skills are on point) looks like he's ready to fall over.

I have never been more thankful for a train departure as I am when they finally called an end to the last match. I am so ready to go home; I'm so exhausted! Except, I still hadn't found the opportunity to talk to him. To Tsukishima. I don't want to leave without at least trying.

After changing out of my uniform, I head back into the gym to round up any stragglers. I nod to Yaku, who's talking to Karasuno's vice-captain. I saw their libero run off, so maybe he was talking to them, too. Inuoka was with Chibi-chan, jumping and speaking gibberish.

And staring at them, looking caught between fascinated and disgusted, was Tsukishima. I knew this was my chance. I approach him quietly, and stop, thinking of something to say. Maybe something witty, or a compliment, perhaps?

But he spoke first.

"Do you... understand that?"
"Nah. They sound like a couple of toddlers."
He turned to face me, his eyes wide with surprise. Clearly, he was expecting a teammate. I don't know why, but I felt like teasing him a bit, maybe see if he'll smile. It's a long shot, but worth a try.

"But you know, maybe you should try goofing off once in a while instead of acting all stoic."
"That's not one of my strong suits."
Not even a tiny smile. Guess that was a bust. As he walks off to join his team, I can't help a parting shot.
"Mmhmm. Ya sound like an old man."

Later, as we board our bus, and head to the train station, I think of ways to meet Tsukishima again. I'll need Bokuto and Akaashi's help, too. I've never felt like this before. It's like finding the one person in the entire world that's meant for you.

Tsukishima is my person.


Chapter 12 - And Now We Are Four

a/n: in which our favorite pair become parents for the first time. #krtsk

~*~*~

"Really? You mean it? You aren't kidding?"

Tetsu hung up a few minutes later, completely stunned. The process went too quickly. They'd been told it might take several months before anything happened. But after that call... He held back the tears. He had to tell Kei.

"Kei? When do you get off work?"
"Another hour." There was a slight pause. "Why? What's wrong?"
"Think they'll let you go now?"
"Tetsu, you're starting to freak me out. What's wrong?"
"It's nothing bad, I swear. So, do you think you can get out early?"
"I don't see why not."
"I'll meet you at home, okay?"
"Okay. But, Tetsu..."
"Everything is fine, I swear. I love you."
"I love you, too."

Without much thought, Tetsu grabbed his bag, and left his office in a rush. He sped to his boss's office, told him he was leaving, and then ran to the bus stop.

He made it home first. Kei texted him saying he had to wait a bit longer. Tetsu decided to order dinner; he wasn't in the mood to cook, and after he told Kei the news, neither would he. When he finally stopped, unable to do anything more than wait, the tears started falling.

An hour later, Kei came home to find dinner already on the table. Tetsu set places for two with the good china. A bottle of wine sat uncorked on the table. All that trouble... for a bucket of KFC and all the sides one could imagine. Kei tried not to laugh. And failed. Miserably.

"I love hearing you laugh," Tetsu said as he came back in the kitchen. "I love seeing you smile."
Kei turned to face him, and his smile faded a little. Tetsu had obviously been crying, even though he tried to hide it. In seconds, Kei stood in front of him, wiping away new tears.

"What's wrong?" Kei asked again.
"Nothing's wrong. I can't help it, I'm just so happy."
"You've cried only a few times since I've known you, and only once when you weren't especially happy," Kei said as he thought out loud.

Tetsu waited, knowing it wouldn't be much longer.

Kei wiped away a tear, and then another. Through those tears, Tetsu was smiling. His eyes practically shone with joy. What could possibly bring his husband to tears and make him incredibly happy, even after two years of marriage?

And then it hit him.
"Oh my god," he whispered.

Tetsu quickly pulled out a chair and Kei dropped into it, his knees giving out. Dinner was forgotten; honestly, it was likely they'd be eating everything cold. But even so, Tetsu went down on his knees and looked up at Kei, whose eyes were now swimming with tears.

"The adoption...?"
"We were approved. Everything's been finalized. We can pick up the boys tomorrow, if we want."
"We want," Kei said, nodding emphatically. "We definitely want."
"I'll call our social worker back." Tetsu pulled his phone from his pocket and made the call.

*the next day*

They walked into the house carrying two tired 2 year olds. Mom came over to meet her new grandsons, and make their first meal as a family. Ni-san had joined them, as well as Kou and Keiji and their boys, Kaoru and Chika. Everyone was here, which is as it should be.

"We'd like you to meet the newest members of our family," Tetsu announced happily. "This is Akira," he said, laying a gentle hand on the back of the child he held.
"This is Jun," Kei said next, smiling as the child played shy for a moment before smiling at everyone.

Everyone took turns greeting the children, and doting on them. Pictures were taken and shared on multiple social media accounts, with one in particular serving as an announcement.

"And now, we are four!"


Chapter 13 - Camping? Not So Much, Actually.

a/n: in which Bokuto is banned from planning any further trips for the squad indefinitely. #krtsk

~*~*~

"This is bad."
"You said that already."
"It bears repeating."
"Whose brilliant idea was this in the first place?"

The three of them looked at Bokuto, who simply shrugged and smiled, albeit rather uncomfortably. In turn, he looked at Akaashi with pleading eyes.

"You wanted to go tent camping, Kou," he said simply.
"Why didn't you talk me out of it?"

That was the problem. They all agreed to go camping. Picked out a spot and everything. Yet, once they got to their site, they realized they'd forgotten the most important thing. The tents.

"I assume the tents are at home," Tsuki spoke with an air of resignation. He found a stump and sat down, dropping his bag on the ground.
"Yeah, probably," Kuroo replied, sitting down on the ground next to him.
"So how did we manage to forget them?"

Again, they looked at Bokuto.

"I got excited, okay? Neither of us has really been tent camping before, and I thought it was going to be so much fun for us to go together..."
"And his excitement sucked us all in, as usual," Kuroo added. "It figures that we'd also pick one of the furthest spots in the park."
"Do we even have mobile service out here?"
Tsuki checked his phone. "I have three bars. Not the best, but I can work with that." He kept his phone in hand, tapping as if life depended on it. Kuroo glanced over at his screen and caught on to what he was doing, but said nothing.

"We could eat something while we figure out a plan," Bokuto suggested after a short silence.
"Always with the food," Tsuki muttered with irritation. He reached into Kuroo's bag and tossed a bag of rice balls at his friend. "Don't say I never give you anything."
"I wouldn't dare!"
"Yes, you would," Akaashi chided as they sat down. He divvied out the wrapped onigiri Tsuki made. Kuroo tossed them a drink, took a rice ball for him and Tsuki, and ate while his boyfriend stayed glued to his phone.

"What's he doing?" Akaashi asked once they finished eating.

Tsuki tapped for a few more minutes and then looked up at the rest of them, smirking. "Saving us from unmitigated disaster," he said, his eyes glinting.
"What do you mean?" Bokuto asked.
"We have no tents, and no way to cook our food," Kuroo reminded him.
"Oh. Yeah. Right."
"For a trip that was a spur of the moment decision, we failed spectacularly," Tsuki quipped. But, then he smiled. "We can try again another time. Come on. We should start heading back."
"Okay, but where are we going?" Akaashi asked, helping Bokuto up.
"You'll see," Kuroo smirked.

*an hour later*

"I'm thinking we should've done this instead," Kuroo said lazily, submerged to his neck in the hot spring bath.
"What? And miss out on the adventure of a lifetime?" Tsuki was enjoying himself, both at the expense of Bokuto, and just by being with his friends.

Bokuto wasn't even listening; he'd sunk completely under while they talked, and only just popped up again.
"As the eldest of our squad, I officially put Tsuki in charge of our vacations."
"For the love of all that's holy..."
"Really, Bokuto?"
"Well, why not? He found this place."
"Only because we forgot the tents, and didn't even think of a fire pit."
"Does this mean I've been promoted to Logistics Manager?"
"If that means you'll stop cooking for us, then no."
"I'm not the only one who can cook, you know."
"No, we just like your cooking better."

They continued bickering as they trooped to the room Tsuki reserved for the weekend, and throughout cooking their dinner. They stayed up late playing games and bickered more about going out or staying in. This trip would be the first of many such trips. Better planned, of course.


Chapter 14 - Explaining Football... Sort Of

a/n: in which our guys try to explain football (soccer), and fail hilariously. #krtsk

~*~*~

"Why are they kicking the ball?" Chika asked, looking adorably confused.
"Why are they running around so much?" Jun asked.
"The court is way too big," Kaoru muttered. "And too grassy."
"So, if they kick the ball into the net, that's a good thing?" Akira sounded thoughtful.

The adults took turns looking at each other, highly amused at their sons' and nephews' questions. They were all in the living room, heaped together in a 'nest' they made using nearly every futon, pillow, and blanket in the house, watching a football game on the tv.

It didn't matter that the adults barely knew that much about football in the first place, just that this happened to catch the boys' attention long enough for them to settle down for a little while. Maybe even fall asleep, which was the true goal, here.

"Well, they kick the ball because they can't hold it," Kei offered.
"Just like volleyball!" Chika sounded happy with that answer.
"That's right," Kei replied, relieved when his answer satisfied his nephew. "Just like volleyball." He turned to Tetsu and whispered, "I guess?"

Tetsu held back a laugh; he was having way too much fun watching them more than the game.
"They run around because they have to get to the ball," he told Jun. "They have to kick it into those nets at either end of the field."
"Too much running," his son grumbled.

This coming from the child who could practically run rings around his brother and cousins, Tetsu thought. He buried his face into Kei's neck, trying not to laugh and also not to be noticed by the kids. It was, perhaps, a good thing the game was keeping them interested.

"That isn't a court, it's a field," Kou chimed in, trying to help out. "And it's big like that so the ball has room to travel."
"Okay, but why all the grass? Hard floors would be easier."
"The grass slows the ball down so the players can catch up to it. When it's not in the air."

He said that with as much authority on the subject as he could fake, which only served to crack up the adults even more. Still, that left one last question they hadn't yet tried to answer, and Keiji was the only one among them who could. Maybe. They hoped. And prayed.

"Kicking the ball into the net is a good thing," Keiji sounded suitably serious and knowledgeable. "It means that team scored a point."
"Not the other team?"
"No, not the other team."
"They need more guys watching the net."
"Indeed."

By this time, the others had completely lost it. They laughed so hard, tears streamed down their faces. For four curious little boys, they tried to answer their questions. They did the best they could do, under the circumstances, which wasn't much. It seemed to work, though. There weren't any more questions, at least.

Sometime later, Akiteru returned with Megumi, and found them all sleeping. He snapped a photo, and sent it to mom. Megumi wiggled to be let down, so he did that. She toddled over, crawled over Kou, and cuddled up with Kei, who woke up enough to smile and to snuggle her in his arms.


Chapter 15 - Happy Birthday, Kuroo (2016)

a/n: in which Tetsuro Kuroo has yet another memorable birthday with Kei Tsukishima. #krtsk
a/n(2): this story takes place in 2016. Tetsu and Kei have been married just over a year.

~*~*~

With the help of Tetsu's coworkers, Kei made his way to his husband's office. He'd double checked everything: vacation time approved, vacation location (hey that rhymes!), itinerary, hotel reservations... everything was set. He just needed to pry Tetsu away from work.

He knocked on the door, and then just let himself in, fully closing the door behind him. Tetsu had noticed, and he was staring with a predatory gleam in his eyes. Kei shivered.
"What brings you here?"
"Do I need a reason?"
"Want me to give you one?"
"You mean like last time?"

Testu rose from his chair and walked around the desk. Kei moved away from the door. They met somewhere in the middle. No more words were exchanged as they kissed. This wasn't the first time this little exchange had happened, and it certainly wouldn't be the last.

"Happy Birthday," Kei whispered when they finally came up for air. "Happy anniversary, too."
"Our anniversary was last month."
"Yes..."
"And I know we both remembered it."
"There was much remembering."
"Smartass."
"You love it."
"Indubitably. But seriously, what brings you here?"

Kei wriggled enough to move, and pulled a pair of tickets from his pocket, wordlessly handing them to Tetsu. He rolled his eyes when Tetsu held the tickets up over his face in order to read them, and then waited patiently for his beloved's reaction. He didn't have to wait long.

"Kyoto?"
"Yes."
"For a... week?"
"Yes."
"I see there will be a few tours included."
"Of course."
The tickets slowly came down, revealing Tetsu's face. His eyes were twinkling and he was smiling.
"For me?"
"Yes." Kei waited a few beats. "Also, we haven't been back in a while..."
Tetsu laughed, and then kissed Kei again.
"When do we leave?"
"It's on the tickets."
"Tell me anyway."
Kei glanced at the clock on the wall. "If we leave now, we'll have 15 minutes before our train arrives."
"I assume we're already packed?"
"Our bags are right outside the door."

En route to Kyoto, Kei told Tetsu the itinerary wasn't set in stone, so they could either do what had been planned, or just 'stay in the room and order room service.' Good thing Kei had reserved a private room; Tetsu spent the entire trip getting them both worked up.

Once they arrived in Kyoto, they spent the next two days 'staying in the room and ordering room service.' It wasn't a surprise that a good part of the time was spent sleeping. Literally sleeping. Kei smiled as he held Tetsu. Sometimes it took going out of town to get proper rest.

Of course, the majority of those two days were spent doing whatever Tetsu wanted. And he wanted Kei. Anywhere, anyhow. No limit.
"Happy birthday to me," he panted after collapsing.
"Yeah..." Kei replied from under him.
"Maybe we should stay in here all week."
"Hard no."
Tetsu snorted. "You said 'hard.'"
"What are you, twelve?" Kei was smiling anyway. "We have to go out at some point, Tetsu."
"Do we?"
"Oh my god."
"Yes?"
"You're terrible."
"Not what you said earlier."
"How about incorrigible?"
"I'll allow it."
"Magnanimous of you, your majesty."

Eventually, they made it out of their room, and toured Kyoto in the fall. They went everywhere they visited the first time they came here, and visited 'new' places. Kei made sure they took plenty of pictures, having the foresight to pack an actual camera for the job.

And just like last time, they visited the Inari Taisha shrine at Fushimi as their last stop before going home. Except this time, they had more time to explore along the Torii gate path. They made it to the top just as the sun had set, and admired the twinkling city lights below.

"Beautiful," Kei whispered.
"I agree," Tetsu replied. He wasn't looking at the city lights.
"I don't want to go back yet."
"Who said we have to?"
Kei turned startled eyes toward Tetsu, who merely smiled.
"But... what about...?"
"I called my boss and put in for another week."
"Okay, but..."
"You just said you don't want to go back." He stepped in front of Kei, pulling him close. "We don't have to go back. Not for another week."
Kei sagged into his arms. "I'll just call the school, and..."
"Already done. Told them I was stealing you away and hung up."
"I'm sure they appreciated that."
"Who knows? Who cares?" He ran his fingers through Kei's blonde locks. "Let's go back to the room and order room service."
"Something tells me this will be a thing from now on."
"Bet on it. As long as it's just you, and me, and a hotel room."


Chapter 16 - Happy Birthday, Tetsu! (2021)

a/n: in which Tetsu celebrates his birthday with his family. #krtsk

~*~*~

Kei and Keiji were in the kitchen, putting the finishing touches on the meal they'd put together.
Kou was on kid watch.
The boys were all upstairs, taking turns looking through a pair of binoculars and a telescope, both pointed at the street.
Megumi was sleeping.

"When is his train due?" Keiji asked.
"Should've arrived already," Kei answered checking his phone. There was a single text message, 'On My Way!' that had been sent around the same time he arrived at the station. "He should be home in the next 10 minutes."
"Perfect."

As Kei was setting the table, he heard the boys all start screaming and cheering.
"DADDY'S HOME!!"
"UNCLE TETSU!!"
And then total chaos as four pairs of little feet, and one big, all thundered down the stairs.
Megumi was startled awake, and let everyone know she was displeased.

"I'll finish up here," Keiji said, grinning. "Kou will calm Megumi down," he grabbed Kou's shirt as he spoke. There was no resistance as his husband changed direction and headed for the baby. "Kei, you go with the boys."
"Thanks, Keiji," Kei replied as he followed the tiny horde.

What he found when he made it outside was, well, chaos. The boys were laughing and screaming, running around the tall, dark-haired man who was trying to catch them all. Kei rested his arms on the porch rail, watching everything. It was an awesome start for Tetsu's birthday.

At first chance, Tetsu made his way to the porch, and looked up at Kei.
"Welcome home, love," Kei said, bending over the rail so he could kiss his husband. "Happy birthday."
"Thanks," Tetsu replied. "I missed you."
"I missed you, too." He looked up and smirked. "So did they."

Tetsu was once again swarmed by four little boys, clamoring for all his attention. Kei stayed where he was, just happy to watch. He'd welcome Tetsu home, properly, later. Once they were alone. Until then, their children would have all his attention.

Around the dinner table, they listened as Tetsu told them all about his latest trip. He'd traveled to Hyogo, Osaka, and Mie prefectures to give motivational speeches to high school volleyball clubs, both boys and girls. He'd been invited to stay to watch practice matches, too.

Kei smiled as Tetsu told them how he'd even gone out on the court to offer advice on defense, and give examples on blocking moves. Tetsu might not be actively playing volleyball anymore, but it was still in his blood.
Tetsu caught him looking and winked.
Kei winked back.

After Tetsu gave the kids souvenirs, he put them to bed and tucked them in, telling them a bedtime story and promising to see them in the morning. When he returned to the kitchen, he found his husband and brothers waiting. There was a strawberry cream cake lit up with 27 candles.

"Happy birthday, Tetsu!" they said quietly, so as not to wake the children. Well, not Megumi. She was with them. Tetsu took her from Kei, sat down, and doted on his daughter. While he was diverted, Keiji served the cake, Kou poured drinks, and Kei put the gifts on the table.

They talked for hours, most of it about the children, but also stuff about work, and any new news from friends scattered around the country. Once Megumi fell asleep, he opened each of his gifts, and he loved them all, as they knew he would. But there was one he loved most of all.

Kou had given him a new volleyball bag, which was patterned much like the one he'd carried in high school. It was solid black, with JVA and his surname embroidered in gold on the front. The backside had Nekoma, Karasuno, MSBY, and Sendai Frogs embroidered in each team's colors.

Keiji had given him a new cookbook filled with recipes that they'd made over the years, including Mom's. Some were new favorites, some were old favorites. The idea was that Tetsu would cook these and improve his culinary skills. But they all knew he preferred eating over cooking.

Kei's gifts were his favorites. There was a large framed picture of their family. It was taken the day after he brought Megumi home, and everyone was there. The picture had been taken by Ni-san's friend, Udai-san. There was one just like it here, so this would go in his office.

A flash drive was placed in his hand. Tetsu knew what it was before he plugged it into the laptop someone handed him. Kei had taken the last year's worth of pictures and video clips, and edited them into a visual playlist. He'd been making these since before they were married.

"Thanks, guys," he said quietly as they grouped around the laptop to watch Kei's latest creation. "Best. Birthday. Ever."
"You said that last year," Keiji deadpanned.
"And the year before," Kou added cheerfully.
"Pretty much every year since 2012," Kei said sardonically.

*Much Later*

"I think we overdid it," Tetsu mumbled from Kei's chest.
"No such thing," Kei replied, catching his breath. He'd just given Tetsu a proper 'welcome home' and 'happy birthday' wrapped into one. Now, they were a sweaty, tangled mess in a heap on their bed.

"Since you said that," Tetsu started leaving a trail of kisses from Kei's chest to his neck. "Why don't we go again?"
"You're insatiable."
"So are you."
"I love you."
"I love you, too."
They spent the rest of the night celebrating Tetsu's birthday the best way they knew how.


Chapter 17 - Shall We Play A Game?

a/n: in which Tsuki has a little fun with Kuroo. #krtsk

~*~*~

There it is again!
That feeling of being watched. And not just being watched by some random person. This place is crowded enough. It's like being watched by someone you know. I'm not entirely sure how to explain it. It's familiar, but I haven't seen anyone I know.

Tsuki, Bokuto, and Akaashi came with me to the festival, but then we split up. Tsuki and I went to look at various souvenir stalls, while Bokuto hauled Akaashi off for food. The next thing I know, Tsuki hands me a slip of paper, tells me he'll be right back, and then he's gone.

It was odd for Tsuki to leave like that. He hates crowds. My curiosity is piqued, so I start to walk in the direction I last saw him go. I keep my eyes open, looking for a tall, lanky blonde, wearing a black kimono with an orange chrysanthemum pattern embroidered on it.

"Hey, Kuroo!" Akaashi walks up to me. "Have you seen Bokuto?"
"No. Have you seen Tsuki?"
He shakes his head, and notices the paper I hold in my hand. Curiously, he smirks, which is unlike him.
"I think you need to read that," he says cryptically.
"What? Why?"

I look down at the paper, and then up again. Akaashi is gone. Things are getting stranger and stranger. I look at the paper again:
"Find Tsuki Kitsune. "X" marks the spot."
The paper was a map.
The X isn't too far.
So. He wants to play a game?

Challenge Accepted.

I catch sight of a familiar blonde head. I move a little faster, yet he manages to stay ahead. At an intersection, he faces me, smiles, and puts the kitsune mask he's holding over his face.
"Kuroo!" I turn away for just a second.
Hmm. No one. I turn back and Tsuki's gone.

I walk down the path where I last saw Tsuki. The crowd seems thin here; maybe I'll catch Tsuki Kitsune. The lanterns and fairy lights create a fantasy type setting. Not too far ahead, I see a booth selling taiyaki. There, in front of the line, is my quarry.

But just as I start to close in, someone bumps into me. I reach out to catch them so they don't fall, looking away.
"I'm so sorry," the little girl says. I smile as I help her pick up the stuff she dropped.
"Are you okay?"
"Yeah, thank you."
"You're welcome."
"Are you Kuroo?"
I blink. "Yeah. How do you know me?"
"Mr. Kitsune told me," she said with a smile. "He also said to give you this."
She hands me two taiyaki, wrapped in a cloth, tied with a red ribbon. Tucked into the ribbon was another note.
"Thank you," I tell her, but she's gone.
So is Tsuki.

'Catch me if you can!'
I begin to think this was planned, and I think of a counter to end this game. At another stall, I buy my own kitsune mask.
Takes a fox to catch a fox.
Since I didn't see which way he went, I put on the mask, and start off in a new direction.

*Later*
From the shadows, I watch as Tsuki arrives. He's with Akaashi and Bokuto, so clearly they were helping.
"Are you sure?" Akaashi asks Tsuki.
"Yeah. I'll be fine," he replies. "You two go enjoy what's left of the festival. The fireworks will start soon."

Once they're gone, Tsuki remains standing in place, his back to me. I take a step forward, covering my face with my mask, and... step on a twig. Perfect. I can feel Tsuki's smile.
"I see you finally made it,' he said, his voice shaky from holding back laughter.
"I beat you here."
"You think so?"
"No one was here."
"We were hiding off the path. Once we saw you, we waited a bit, and then followed."
"You were watching me?"
"The entire time."
"That almost explains everything."
"Almost?"
"Well, for starters, why?"
"What's a festival without a little mischief?"
"Mischief, huh?"
Tsuki nodded. "Unfortunately, you've yet to complete your... 'task.'"
"My task?"
"Catch me."

Slowly, I walk toward him, grinning like a Cheshire cat. He isn't moving. I stop just out of arm's reach.

"Why aren't you moving?"

Tsuki just smiles. I take another step.

"Do you want to be caught?"

No answer again, at least not verbally. His eyes, though. His eyes are shining with his answer. Another step, and only a few inches separate us.
But I don't touch him. Not yet.

"Do you want to be caught?" I ask again.
Tsuki nods. "Yeah."

I take his hands, weaving our fingers together. I pull him closer; not even the breeze can get through. I tease him with my lips, barely touching his neck, his ear, his mouth. I can feel his heart race, just like mine. His breathing is ragged, just like mine.

"I caught you."


Chapter 18 - After The Fight

a/n: in which our pair makes up and comforts each other after a fight. #krtsk

~*~*~

"I'm sorry. I won't walk away again."
He'd found him on the beach, standing alone, letting the tide wash over his feet. It was sunset, and the gentle waves were washing away the trail of half-circles and half-hearts that led him here. "I'm sorry," he whispered again.

He could barely look at his love, kept his eyes lowered and his hands folded in front of him. The picture of abject misery... and terror. He was afraid that he'd screwed up so much that it could ruin everything between them and nothing could fix it. "Please. Say Something."

"I'm sorry, too. I didn't mean what I said. I didn't mean to make you walk away." He heard the sand crunch softly, and then a pair of feet entered his vision. A few seconds later, a pair of hands gently gripped his shoulders, traveling down his arms, softly untangling his hands.

This wasn't the first time they'd misunderstood each other, or the first time they'd fought. But it felt like the worst. It made him question his place in this relationship, his ability to make him happy, despite the rings on their fingers.
"Hey. Look at me."
"But... I..."
"Please. Look at me."

Now, those hands framed his face, gently urging him to raise his eyes. He didn't resist. How could he? And his vision blurred, seeing the splotchy red face of his love; he'd been crying, too. He reached up hesitantly, wiping away a stray tear.

"I love you. I always have. Nothing could ever change that. You complete me, heart and soul. I begin where you end." The hands eased away from his face, but then strong arms surrounded and held him. Relief flooded through him; they'd be alright.

Things might be a little tender between them for a while, but they'd make it through. Love was all they needed, and he was reminded of that love by the weight of the ring on his finger. They'd made promises to each other, repeated vows in front of family and friends.

They stayed there, holding each other, until the sun set and the only light was that of the full moon and stars. The tide was starting to roll in, and they were soon up to their knees in sea water. With awkward, shy smiles, they ran hand-in-hand to higher ground, and sat down.

Tetsu wrapped himself around Kei from behind, and rested his head on his shoulder. Kei leaned his head against Tetsu's. They played with each other's fingers, and toyed with their rings. Neither said a word; they didn't need to. Their hearts did the talking.

"I, Tetsuro Kuroo, take you, Kei Tsukishima, to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'til death do us part. I promise to love and care for you and I will try in every way to be worthy of your love. I will always be honest with you, kind, patient, and forgiving. But most of all, I promise to be a true and loyal friend to you. I love you."

Kei smiled, relaxing further into Tetsu's arms.

"I, Kei Tsukishima, take you, Tetsuro Kuroo, to be my wedded husband, to have and to hold from this day forward, for better, for worse, for richer or for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, 'til death do us part. You are my soulmate, my love, my peace, my life. You are my soft place to fall when I need it, my guiding light, my best friend. You are my person. I love you."

Tetsu tightened his hold. Maybe they hadn't intended to repeat their vows, but they did.
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