You’re related to Iwaizumi. A man who yearns, EARNS. Timeline starting from 1st year to present (argentina era). PINNING. Kind of slow burn. Dating era starts at timeskip. Cry baby Tooru.
part 1 | part 2 | part 3 | special
🏐 .𖥔 ݁ ˖𖦹⭒°。⋆🏐 .𖥔 ݁ ˖𖦹⭒°。⋆🏐 .𖥔 ݁ ˖𖦹⭒°。⋆🏐 ☆
“Is the coach here?” It’s a Wednesday afternoon when you decide to make your way to the gymnasium. Your cousin had a conversation with you not long ago about joining a club since you just transferred, he was telling you about the pros and cons so you can make your mind up.
The people inside the gym seem to pause the game they’re playing when the gym door opens. You’re currently wearing your uniform, brown skirt, blue button up with your red neck tie loosen, carrying your vest and jacket on your arm.
“Oh, you're in the first year right?” Nodded your head to who you assumed was the assistant coach, next to him was the head coach that you have talked to prior to this day. “Would you like to watch the practice match so you’d have an idea how they play? I’m Sadayuki Mizoguchi by the way, assistant coach.” you take his hand that’s outstretched and shake it, giving your name as well.
“I’d like to watch, thank you.” You accepted the offer and followed the man, you see their head coach, Nobuteru Irihata, shout to the boys to resume playing.
“I heard that you’re interested in taking the manager position, this will be a great start to have a background on who you are going to manage.”
“Right, I’m looking forward to this.” You smiled at him before sitting down between the coaches.
“Glad to meet you again,” The head coach greeted you, you lowered your head and greeted him back. “I’m happy you took this offer into consideration.”
“How could I not when you reached out to me, Sir. It made me curious how the boys play.” You grinned, pushing your gray hair away from your face.
“Oh trust me, you’d like them. I have a few promising players too, in their first year just like you.”
Aoba Johsai is one of the volleyball powerhouses here in Miyagi Prefecture that you personally seek out to attend in, aside from their uniforms that caught your attention, you heard that it’s one of the schools that has participated in nationals a few times before.
“That’s Oikawa and Iwaizumi, both first years and have a good synergy inside the court.” the head coach pointed at the guy who has fair skin with fluffy brown hair and a guy who has tanned skin and spiky hair. He continued introducing the team to you, pointing to each one.
When the practice match arrived at the end, the head coach made them line up to introduce you.
“She’s just transferred here, and she’s our prospect manager. She will be watching over your practices until she makes a decision. Is that clear?”
“Yes, Coach.” the team echoed. As they are packing up, you are discussing your class schedule with the assistant coach, asking him what day and time they usually practice.
Someone called your name while you were leaning your back against one of the pillars of the gate. You lifted your head and saw Iwaizumi, with three other guys behind him. You remember the Coach mentioning their name but forgot.
“Are you ready to go?” He asked you, hand reaching it to grab your bag, carrying it for you.
“Yeah..” You looked at the three guys who seemed confused. Iwaizumi stopped on his tracks.
“Oh right, this is Issei Matsukawa, Takahiro Hanamaki, and Oikawa Tooru.” They waved at you, you smiled and waved back at them.
“You’re in my class right?” Matsukawa said, you recognized him sitting at the back of your class.
“Oh yes! You were the guy who was late yesterday because of your stomachache right?”
You heard Hanamaki snickered, “What an impression, Matssun.”
“That was a lie, by the way.” The five started walking, Iwaizumi and Oikawa going ahead, the three of you following behind way too fixate on the conversation.
“How’d you know Iwaizumi? Are you guys dating?” Hanamaki asks while kicking stone,
“Hell no, we’re cousins.” the two guys walking with you stopped on their tracks, turning their head to you with astonishment. You didn’t realize that Oikawa also stopped walking, making you bump into his back.
“YOU’RE RELATED?!” The three speak at the same time.
“Wow, did you guys practice that?”
“But you guys look nothing alike!” Oikawa says, switching gaze between you and Iwaizumi.
“Our mothers are cousins. He’s also my slave, fun right?”
“Get on with the walking.” Iwaizumi said, you followed behind.
“Iwa how come you’ve never mentioned her before?!” You heard Oikawa whined, Iwaizumi clicking his tongue.
“Because I knew you’d react like this. She’s also not originally from Miyagi so there’s no reason to mention her.”
“If you’re not from Miyagi, where were you from then?” Oikawa ask, walking backward so he could face you.
“Sendai, moved here because of Dad’s job, also because Iwaizumi is here.”
“Huh. You got that mother’s side glint.” Oikawa said to which he received a whack on the back of his head.
“Are you saying I’m ugly?” Hajime glared,
“Nah you look ok, just totally different from her.” Hanamaki laughed as the two started fighting.
Matsukawa and Hanamaki’s street was the closest, leaving you, Hajime, and Oikawa. At some point you thought that you were getting interviewed because of a certain someone’s questions.
“Oh I’m here. See you guys tomorrow! Bye,” He waved as he yelled out your name leaving you and Hajime.
“So, what can you say?” He asked,
“About your game or Oikawa?” He laughs and hit your shoulder,
“How about both? I told you you’d like him.” He proudly says,
“Now you’re getting ahead of yourself. The game is okay, improvable. Oikawa, hmm he’s not bad. I can see why you’re best friends with him.”
“I’m really expecting you to join, alright? I can’t wait to make your big brain work.” He said, handing you your bag as you arrived at your street, quite the opposite of his but still walking distance.
“Thank you for today, bye!”
From that day on, the five of you frequently hang out with each other, deciding to finally accept the offer to be their manager. During class break you would sit next to Mattsun, chatting about different game styles that his teammates have and you sharing what you have observed so far.
Hanamaki often would ask for your help with the class he’s left behind, others would tag along to join the study that would eventually turn into a movie marathon. Hajime, as an only child, would indulge you in your own personal plans, tagging along to when you go out for errands.
Growing up, you’ve been close with him since he’s the only cousin near your age. The rest of your cousins are mostly younger than you both. Even when Hajime’s family moved to Miyagi, your relationship with him barely changed since he would visit frequently and would call you through the family telephone.
Just like Hajime sticking to your hips, Oikawa happened to also stick to him a lot, meaning the three of you often hang out the most. In the process of that, Oikawa found out how fun it is to tease you that even Iwaizumi can’t stop him.
“What’s up, shorty? Are you drawing me?” Oikawa came up behind you as you're writing, strategizing on your clipboard.
You turn to Oikawa who’s drinking from his bottle while wiping his sweat, “Confident, aren’t we? Get back on the court.” You rolled your eyes, continuing on your business.
“Yes, Ma’am.” He placed his bottle back on the tray running back to the court, his upperclassman asking him to set.
You have been experimenting with their line up every practice game they have, making a checklist which one has scored a lot during the game. The coach trusts you enough to try new things, considering the fact that he’s the one who seeks out for you upon hearing about your skills during middle school, he even made up a nickname to call you little strategist.
“How is it going?” you look up from your board to see the current captain of the team who is a third year. He grab his bottle beside you before sitting down,
“I’ve crossed out a few ones that did not work out, we have 4 proper line ups that we could use during games.” you hand him the clipboard so he could see better. His expression seemed to look impressed,
“Wow, I never thought that our team could still gain advantage, you really must’ve enjoyed doing this huh.” He handed it back to you, quite amazed.
You gave him a small smile, “Do you know what else I enjoy, Senior?” You asked, turning your head to him.
He looked at you confusingly before asking, “What?”
“Directing people. So please if you don’t mind, go back to the court and practice back-row attacks.” You smiled almost sarcastically.
“Geez, now I get why Oikawa calls you Ma’am.” He said, still not moving an inch from the bench.
“Senior.” You look at him with raised brows,
He chuckled, getting back on his feet. “Copy, Ma’am.” Running back to the court, he ordered his teammates to get into the position.
As you were watching their practice match, you noticed that Mattsun is nowhere to be seen, he’s supposed to be in the opposing line up today but he’s not there. You scrunch your nose, walking towards the door of the gym after excusing yourself to the assistant coach.
You changed your shoes, ready to go out and hunt him until you see him making his way to the gym door. You crossed your arms and leaned at the door frame, when he reached the spot you’re standing on, his hand went to the back of his head scratching it with a small smile.
“Go in before I remove you from the line up.” You noticed that he’s walking with someone behind his back, a guy who looks like he’s either going to shit his pants or cry.
“Is this a new recruit?” You asked, eyeing the boy in front of you.
“Uh no, he said he wanted to talk to you so I brought him here.” Matsukawa said while changing his shoes, “Hey talk to her now before someone drags her away, I’m off.” Then he proceeded to enter the gym, your eyes following as he entered the court.
“So uhm,” The guy called your name, averting your gaze from Matsukawa.
“May I know what this is about?” He’s kinda tall, maybe around your cousin’s height, smaller than Oikawa. He doesn’t look bad too, he’s got soft features and brown eyes, his bangs perfectly trimmed.
“I’m Tetsuya Kurogane, 2nd year from Class 5, I-I’ve known you since last year and I thought you’re really cool, I just want to ask if you would like to be friends.” He talked a bit fast, you almost missed it, he bowed, a little deep for your liking.
You didn’t talk for a while, he didn’t move either, “Are you sure you’re here to make friends?” You saw his hand holding a familiar box of chocolate, you would know because you like that brand. You crossed your arms as you waited for him to straight up again.
“Uh.. no, er yes, Actually,” He stall, you see his face getting redder. You noticed his eyes suddenly looking past you that made you twist your body. You see the boys who seemed to get distracted, not playing any longer but looking at the doorway, eyes on you and this guy.
You sigh, “Get back playing. I’ll be right back.” You closed the door and walked ahead of the guy who’s following close behind you. When you reach the back of the gym, you lean there to look at the guy again.
“So? Tetsuya, is it?” You asked the guy who look like he just gained his composure, he became a little confident now without eyes watching him, his back straighten and his voice become clearer,
“Right, I actually wanted to ask you out, I know I’m not the first to ask you, also heard all of them are rejected so.. I just want to be your friend.” He said, his head hanging low,
“How long have you known me?” You asked, arms still crossed and eyes not leaving his face.
“Since you transferred, I actually wanted to join the volleyball team because of you but I only play basketball.” He confessed, his face getting flush even more,
You smirk, enjoying this, “Hmm, sure. I’ll be friends with you, at least you know that I don’t date. You’re actually the first one to ask me to be their friend after getting turned down, well kind of.”
He finally looked you in the eyes with a small smile, “Really? I would still love to be your friend! I watched one of their practice games here and I saw how you direct them, that was so cool I wish I was the one getting the command.” He blabber, you squint your eyes at him before laughing. Sure no one ever told you that they like being ordered.
“Okay if you continue talking I might think something different.”
“Friends?” He smiled offering his hand, you took it and smiled back,
“Friends. So chocolate?” You tilted your. head gesturing to his hands.
He chuckled, “Right, I asked Mattsun what you like and he said you like these.” He hands it to you, without wasting any second you reach for it.
“How’d you know Mattsun anyway?” You asked him,
“We’re in the same street, we used to play a lot when we’re children.”
You nodded, “So basketball huh? Do you enjoy it or do you just play for the sake of the club?”
He didn’t hesitate when he said, “I do enjoy it, I’ve been playing it since middle school, I’m not the best but I like it.”
“That’s cool, I don’t know much about basketball, it seems tough.” His eyes twinkled, relishing the topic you delved into.
“You can watch us sometimes! Though I hope your team won't mind.” He says, his fingers pointing to your left. When you turn you see the guys peeking at you two shamelessly, when you made eye contact with them and they hastily ran off.
“I’d love to watch you sometimes, sorry we’ll have to cut our conversation here, I have practice on going.”
“It’s alright! I understand. Uhm, can I get your number? So I could tell you when we play.” He pulled out his phone, handing it out to you, after putting your number in the two of you walked back to the gym path. “See you! We also have practice!” He waved, match with a big smile as he ran to the other side, going to the basketball gym.
The moment you entered the team had already resumed playing, you sat back on the chair you were sitting on earlier, unwrapping the chocolate to take a piece, offering it to the assistant coach as well.
“You are not getting recruited, are you?” He asked while chewing on the chocolate. Is that why the team is outside earlier? The thought you are getting recruited to the basketball team?
“As a player or as a manager?” You saw on your peripheral vision that he turn to you,
“You play basketball?” He asked confusingly, his forehead creasing.
“No actually, but who knows what’s going on in their mind. And to answer your question, no, I wasn’t getting recruited.” You’re not sure if it was relief on his face but he surely looked pleased to hear that.
While they’re wrapping up, you also clean up the bottles and towels, making sure they’re tidy when you wash them tomorrow. You heard your name get called, you saw your cousin running to you.
“Do you want to go to the convenience store?” Mattsun, Maki, and Oikawa following behind.
“Only if you’re buying me ice cream.” He huffed and rolled his eyes.
“Weren’t you just eating chocolate a while ago? I’m pretty sure Aunt says to watch your sugar intake.” Hajime says glaring at you.
“Don’t be stingy, It’s just ice cream. Better than cigarettes.”
“How’d the talk go with Tetsuya?” Mattsun asks you, walking to match your pace.
“Yeah what was that all about?” Maki asks, the five of you leaving the gate of your campus.
“He wanted to be friends.” You answered simply,
“Just friends?” Oikawa asks suspiciously, his arm going over your shoulder, leaning down to level your height. You rolled your eyes and elbowed him.
“He confessed but later offered to be friends because I said I don’t date.”
“You know there’s still part of him hoping right? Him offering to be friends and shit.” Maki said.
“Of course you would know. Men.” You shook your head.
When you arrive at the convenience store you head to the freezer to get your ice cream.
“Only one, Shorty?” Oikawa said, reach to grab a yogurt.
“Unless you buy me some.” You smiled sweetly at him, trying to see if it would work.
“Sure since you’re acting cute.”
“Okay!” You close the freezer and drag him by his wrist, taking him to the snack section, taking 2 bags of chips and 1 bag of gummies.
“Your cousin is going to kill me.” You take him to the counter as he pays for it without saying anything.
“Thank you, Tooru!” You beamed and patted his back. That caught him off guard, hearing you say his name.
“Repeat that again?” He moved closer to you. Your eyes widen pushing him lightly,
“Tooru?” He didn’t say anything for a while, he then put his palm on his face before squatting. “What the hell is wrong with you?” You look down at him.
“What’s happening?” Matsukawa asks, carrying a popsicle and soda.
“Stand up, Weirdo.” Iwaizumi interfered, giving Oikawa a kick.
“Are you guys ready for the practice match next week?” The five of you decided to take the longer route today. Matsukawa eating popsicles, Hanamaki got some hot pork buns, Iwaizumi and Oikawa playing catch with their mouths.
“It would be a normal Monday for us.” Oikawa said,
“I know but it’s Shiratorizawa.”
“What now?!” Hanamaki and Matsukawa turned to you, and Iwaizumi and Oikawa stopped what they’re doing.
“Did the coach not tell you? Practice match with Shiratorizawa.”
“I didn’t expect I would see Ushijima this soon.” Oikawa exclaimed, Iwaizumi threw him a nut.
“I really don’t get what Ushijima did for you to be so pissed with him since first year.”
Oikawa kicked a rock with his feet, “He’s just so cocky, pisses me off.” He clicked his tongue.
“I think you’re mad cuz you are kinda alike.” Hajime said.
“Take that back, Iwa.” He huffed and walked after Iwaizumi who left the four of you behind.
“He’s not wrong.” You heard Matsukawa and Hanamaki agreed. You chuckled and followed. I guess you don’t have to worry.
When Monday rolls around, you manage to prepare what the boys could possibly need for the day. You will be going to Shiratorizawa since the match will be held there.
You haven’t got the chance to talk to your friends yet since you’ve been occupied with the coaches. Planning on who will be the first six players to play. You’re also nervous too, during the first year when you encountered Shiratorizawa you knew it would be a tough fight, especially with that one guy that Oikawa was so pissed about.
They make a good team, annoyingly strong too. They live up to their name, you can see the reason why they’re one of the great powerhouses here.
During the first set, Ushijima did not play yet, giving Aoba Johsai the first set, with very close scores. You can tell that their captain is trying to uplift them when Ushijima enters the game. For every time out you can feel the tension worsening, Oikawa was barely talking and giving insights.
“Everyone, loosen up a bit. This is just a practice match and we have more teams to play against during preliminaries, don’t let one school take your spark.”
The game ended after the third set, with Shiratorizawa winning the second and third. It’s unfortunate but not surprising, there’s still improvement for this team. Maybe soon you could suggest a new game style with them.
On the way home, everyone is quiet. Some of them are thinking that if they can’t beat Shiratorizawa during the practice match, what more if it's the official match.
They’re confident they can advance through preliminaries as long as it won’t be against that school.
When you get home, you immediately freshen up, take a shower, and do your routine. Your dad won’t be home until 9PM so you decided to eat dinner and watch a few volleyball matches, jotting down their different attacks from what you see.
“Hi dear, me and your sister will be visiting you and your father there. We’ll be there for a week next week.”
“Okay, do you need me to stock up on food?”
“We’ll shop on the way there, just clean the room we’ll be staying in. I will send your money too.”
“Got it, Mom. Thank you.”
“Alright, I will call again later when your father arrives.”
After hanging up you received a message. It’s from Oikawa. You confusingly open his message,
> can i go to your house?
> its okay if you dont want to
Putting your phone down, you brush your hair away from your face. You know something is wrong, especially when none of them suggested going for a convenience store run after the game.
After a while of waiting, you prepared some snacks that you can give him inside your room. The door bell rang, you opened the door to see Oikawa, looking distraught, trying to somehow hide it.
“Hi,” You move aside to let him in. You notice his shoulders hunch down, he’s wearing a white shirt and green sweatpants, his hair is down, looks a little damp as if he just showered.
You went to your room, inviting him in. The snacks you prepared are currently on the small coffee table you have since your study table has your laptop and clipboard that you use for volleyball.
You sat on your bed, looking at him, spacing out and standing at the center of your room. You pat the space next to you, he slowly steps before sitting on the floor and burying his face at the edge of your bed, face on the comforter.
He took a deep breath, your hand went to his damp hair, giving it a gentle ruffle. Your hand didn’t leave his head for about five minutes, his face still buried. It made you wonder if he’s still breathing at this point.
You stood up to get your hair dryer, plugging it in. You just notice how Oikawa’s head is up, watching you. Without any word being said, you gesture for him to come closer. You are sitting on your chair, him on the floor, his back against you.
The only thing that can be heard was your hair dryer, his head slowly leaning on the side, getting support from your knees.
“Mind letting me into your head, Tooru?” You quietly said,
“Has the captain ever said anything to you?” He
muttered, his back still facing you. You turn off the hair dryer, putting it aside. You grab his shoulder and make him face you, he looks up at you with an expression you’ve never seen before.
“Are you talking about his position?” He nodded. Just a week ago when you were cleaning the water bottles their captain decided to accompany you while the others clean up the gym, the two of you talked about your duties as their manager, if ever you have plans to leave soon to which you said no to, and who he is eyeing to take his position next year.
He did mention that he’s thinking of either Oikawa or Hajime, however, the thing with Iwaizumi is he runs a little hot headed and irritable. He asked what do you think about Oikawa as the next captain to which you give your insights about without being biased, he shared the same sentiments and opinions with you making him the main prospect. You knew it would be a pressure to take a role as big as a team captain, but you also know that Oikawa is capable.
“I just,” he sighed and brought his knees to his chest. You reach for his head, fingers dragging against his roots, trying to ease the tension. “I feel pressured, and I feel like shit that we didn’t win earlier, I think it’s my fault.” He rests against your touch, looking down, still in distress.
You let go of his hair before reaching to hold his jaw, lifting his face to look at you. His eyes are kind of red, cheeks flush, his now dry hair, a mess. You brush his bangs away from his forehead before cupping his face, caressing his cheeks.
“None of it was your fault. If you feel pressured that’s normal but remember that you have your team behind you, Oikawa. You have big shoes to fill and your feet are just about the right size. If your captain trusts you then others will too. Worry less about that.”
He just stares at you as if he’s trying to absorb what you just said. You let out a small smile still trying to console him. He let out a deep breath, hands raising to touch your hands that were still on his face.
“Thank you, Manager.” He turned his head to your palm, his lips making contact with your hands, not kissing it but letting it meet. He pressed your palm harder, inhaling it, as if your scent would be enough to calm him down.
“You’re such a weirdo.” You said but never pulled away. Your other hand gently pulls on his hair to make him look at you again. “Don’t be upset about it again, alright?” He nodded, his hands bringing your palm to the center of his face shamelessly. “You’re taking advantage of this right now, aren’t you?” You raised your eyebrow before softly pushing his face away, standing up.
“Can I stay for a little longer?” He asked, still sitting on the floor.
“You’re already staying longer than I expected.” He stood up and dusted his pants to walk over to your bed, sprawling on it.
“Oikawa, we have school tomorrow and my dad will be home in an hour.”
He groaned and sat up, “I’ll go home in one condition.”
You squint your eyes at him, waiting for him to continue his scheme. “Call me by my first name, forever.” He smirks, you shut your eyes upon hearing his request.
He threw his hands up dramatically in the hair, “What! Are you serious? You just called me Tooru earlier.”
“No, that'd be weird.” Shaking your head.
He pouted and crossed his arms. And gosh he looks so pretty. His soft brown hair bounced as he sat up. At least he looks better now compared to earlier.
“How is that even weird?”
“Don’t act like you know. That’s what most couples do.”
As if he did not accept that kind of response, he stomped his foot to the floor. “Friends do that too!”
“Sure, we’re friends.” You said, stepping closer to provoke him.
“Ugh please? Call me Tooru.” His hand pulls yours, shaking it.
“I’ll think about it.” You smirk. Guess you are not any different from him when you also found enjoyment in teasing him. Especially when he gets whiny like this.
He scrunched his face and stood up,
“Fine. I will call you by your first name instead.”
You sigh and roll your eyes, “Whatever, take some snacks and go home.” He snickers before grabbing a packet of gummy and cheese bread.
“Can you walk me home? I’m scared.”
“What the hell is wrong with you.” You hit his shoulder and push him out the door. “I will see you tomorrow, good bye.” You shut the door on his face. You heard him say your name out loud saying good bye.
The days goes by with Oikawa acting like how he normally acts. After that talk you would at least hope it made him feel better and lifted some weight off his shoulders. He would sometimes text you randomly asking if you think he’s doing good so far on being a captain.
He also likes to check in on how he treats his teammate through you, based on your perspective. You never thought that he would be this conscious but if you think about it, he’s actually doing more than he thinks he is.
Oikawa has his own way of leading them, he would make them bring out everyone’s competitive drive without pushing their limits. His main goal is to bring his teammate to the nationals, he’s determined to do it no matter the obstacle they have to face.
The recruitment went smoothly. The team accepted two first years from the same middle school that Oikawa and Iwaizumi attended too. You found them talking one day about a boy, Oikawa was asking them what school he attended too, he seemed pissed during the whole conversation.
You never really find their team difficult to handle since all the third years are basically your friends, it’s easier to have a power over them specially when you are older. Which made you think about your one player who apparently is a total pain in the ass, even Oikawa himself can’t handle him.
It took you a few complaints from Oikawa before you finally intervened. No shouting, no cursing, just straight up threatening to kick him out of the group.
“The hell are you going to do huh?” He shouts, after you warned him not to yell and make a scene. He hovers over you, but you know better than to make someone feel like they’re above you. A kick to his shin did the job that made him crouch down, now on the same height as you.
“Wouldn’t you like to know, Kentaro Kyotani.”
You swear you almost see red in his eyes. “You think you’re the boss of me? You’re just a manager.” He hissed.
“Not at all. But I am in charge of my own actions, and kicking you out is what I can do. You’re definitely not wrong for the last part.” You calmly said.
“You won’t do that, I do well in this team.”
“Trust me, Kyotani. You need this more than we need you. So, learn to listen, if not to me, to the captain. That or nothing.”
He’s not that bad in games, you’ll give him that. He has so much potential if he’s less aggressive on the court. The team has to pay much respect to you after you tame him, it’s like domesticating an abused stray cat.
“Good morning, Manager. I got what you asked for.” He entered the gym and walked straight to where you are, handing you the strawberry milk you asked him to buy on the way here.
“Thank you. You’re late.”
“Sorry, I just had to talk with one of my teachers.” With how calmly he talked the others would think he’s a different person.
“Where’s ours?!” One of his teammates said, like a switch he turned to them and yelled,
“Get your own, I’m not your errand boy!”
“He’s the manager’s errand boy.” Hajime said, which earned him a glare from the boy.
“Get into your position now. I’ll pay later.”
“Roger, and no need to.” He said running off.
They don’t know what’s it with you but they’re coming to the conclusion that it’s witchcraft.
“Tooru, can you tell me why are you pissed with Kageyama?” You asked him one day when he’s over at your house. It was supposed to be a study day for you when he insisted on joining you, without bringing any books, and even invited Hajime, Mattsun, and Makki.
You realized that if you want to get something out of Oikawa, the best strategy is to use his first name. It has never failed even since.
“You really know how to use your bullets, don’t you?” He glared with no heat.
You shrugged, “Doing what I do best.” Makki paused the movie that they’re watching, ready to listen to his story.
He heaved out a deep breath before going back to his middle school. Iwaizumi would cut him to correct his exaggerated narratives, the other two would give side comments.
“So, what do you think?” He asked you after telling his side of the story. You thought for a while before patting his cheek,
“Be kind to yourself sometimes, hmm?” You return to your books, continuing to jot down your notes from earlier. You felt his gaze linger on you, the noise of the tv is the only thing you can hear.
“What does our manager think?” The two coaches turn their heads to you. Another training session before they play against a nearby college for a practice match. You’re currently in the gym, the coaches conducting a short meeting on what kind of training they will do for today, mostly suggested by you.
“I’m not here to give pep talks, stop looking at me with smiley eyes. Matsukawa, practice your blocks, you’re good at it but I know it could be better. Hanamaki, your spikes are your forte so keep going with it, experiment less. Iwaizumi, you do well in defense and spikes, you slack off sometimes so do better. Oikawa, your sets these days are not reaching anyone, work on that, your float serves are right on the boat.”
“I was sick on those days, by the way.” Oikawa commented to which you ignore as you continue criticizing their performance and what to work on, the third years getting reminded not to fall behind.
“That’d be all.” You smiled, their faces the opposite of yours. The Coaches look proud enough.
“Permission to hit Kyotani.” Yahaba raised his hand,
“You heard her. Let’s get to work then.”
While the boys are playing, you’re assessing their moves, checking for changes even if it’s just a short amount of time. Your friend, Tetsuya, entered the gym, brought some snacks asking if he could watch. You let him sit in after the coaches also gave their permission, while they were playing you were voicing out your insights, he did this a few times before, he would learn from the techniques and would have his basketball team learn from it crediting your observational skills.
After the match, your feet immediately drag you away. Taking yourself to the restroom, forcing your eyes to keep the tears in until you’re inside. It hurts to see them like that, you're a few steps away from nationals just to get defeated by a school who was a former powerhouse.
Through their journey you were with them. You witness everything, every match, every training, every strategy they practiced. Now it’s your last year, last chance to attend the nationals but I guess it’s just something you and the third years can dream of.
When you came back you made sure you’re composed enough to present yourself. You congratulated them for doing a good work but other than that you did not trust yourself with another word. The ride home was silent, you could hear a few snuffles, but paid no mind.
You all went to eat ramen after, treating the underclassmen who don’t have a plan on stopping.
“You good?” Hajime called your name, nudging you as you were spaced out.
“I should be the one asking you that. You did well today, Haji.” You smiled, ruffling his hair.
He returned the smile sitting down next to you. “Want to go to the gym later?”
The third years insisted on playing. The Coaches leaving you in charge, you watched them silently, it’s good they’re enjoying themselves, a little distraction. While you’re tidying your things, you feel Oikawa leaving your side, you hear him calling his team.
“Guys, do you have a sec?” You turn to see him facing the rest of the team.
You saw how Makki’s face turned in panic, “Hey don’t do it! We’re trying to end this on a good note! Just let everything end properly!” He even called your name to stop him.
“Shut up!” He said, taking a deep breath before shouting,“Thank you for the last three years!” and just then, you saw all of them tear up with no hesitation.
During the walk home, you told them you’ll take a different route because your father asked you to run some quick grocery shopping. It was a lie.
When you got home you did your routine, taking you a little too long this time because you’re exhausted. Just when you’re about to enter your room, the door bell suddenly rings. You’re sure it isn’t your father, he would have the key otherwise.
“Hi, can I come in?” He looks like he ran all the way here, his hair is half dry. It gives you a flashback.
You let him follow you to your room, the first thing you did is plug your hair dryer, Oikawa making himself comfortable between your legs. After drying he dragged himself to your bed.
“Tooru..” You said quietly, and just like that, his tears became uncontrollable. You went to his side and offered him a hug, he dived right into it, your back falling to the comforter behind you.
You sigh and rubbed his back comfortingly, “There there.” His sobbing became muffled against your chest, you can feel your shirt dampening.
You just let him cry without any interrupting, just stroking and patting his shaking back until the only thing you can hear is soft snores and sniffling. That was the last thing you heard before falling asleep.
The next morning you found yourself in the same position. Shockingly, Oikawa is still on your chest, his arms around your torso.
“I can feel you awake.” You said without moving,
“You’re unbelievable.” He pouts and propping himself up with his elbows,
“I’m unbelievable? You slept in my house without my father knowing.” You flared and flick his forehead, he dramatically hissed from the pain.
“Your dad would understand. He likes me for you, y’know.” His eyebrows wiggling,
You grimace at him before rolling your eyes, “You’re delusional. Get off me you’re heavy.”
“You didn’t say that last night.”
“I swear, Tooru, I’m going to resort to violence.”
Your father did not question why Oikawa came out of your room at 9AM in the morning but had a knowing look that made you roll your eyes. The three of you had breakfast, your father leaving ahead because of work.
“Give me a good reason why I should not kick you out.”
“Why would I miss you when you live blocks away and I can just see you everyday?”
“Not for long.” His answer made you scrunch your face, turning to face him straight.
“I’m going to Argentina after graduation.”
Silence surrounded the two of you. He’s probably joking, right? Because of all the places in the world he chose the one that is approximately 12 thousand miles away from you. You chuckle, trying to gulp down whatever it is you’re feeling. For the whole day, you didn’t ask him about it. You let him stay as you two ate and watched movies. Talking about everything but that.
“Where are they? It’s taking them so long.” Oikawa asks you. You and your friends decided to go on a little date before officially graduating. Oikawa has his chin on top of your head, peeking on your phone as you spam messages.
This became a habit to him. You’re just so perfect in size that he always takes the chance to make you his personal human cane. His arms are around your shoulder, completely locking you.
“There they are!” You wave your hands at them, Oikawa copying you. His arms drop from your shoulder to your waist, giving it a light squeeze that makes you feel hot.
The five of you played at the arcade, won prizes, went to karaoke, offered your respects, and picnicked where you all talked about your future plans. Makki going to Tokyo, Mattsun planning to stay in Miyagi, Iwaizumi planning to attend college and take overseas lessons, Oikawa with Argentina, and you, planning to attend college to take sports management & business.
Since Oikawa told you about his plan for Argentina, you never had the courage to ask him about it until today. He shared his plans to join the Argentina National Team to beat the Japan National Team. You all laugh about it but you know deep inside he isn’t joking.
“Will you tell me your real reason on why you’re choosing Argentina?” You asked once the two of you are alone. He insisted on walking you to your home. His hand is holding yours tenderly as if he’s afraid to hurt you.
“Hmm, aside from following my idol, I want to escape.” You lifted your head to meet his eyes but he’s looking straight ahead. “I feel pressured here. I feel like I’m being held down, I want to escape. I need it.”
You sigh softly, bringing his hand to your lips, pecking it. His eyes look at you, face tense. “You will do great there, Tooru.” He smiled softly, mimicking you as he placed your hand to his lips.
“You think?” He brought his face closer to you, brushing your bangs away from your face as he slowly let down both your hands.
“I know.” He stared at you for a while, looking away he let out a deep breath chuckling after.
“You’ll be the death of me.” Under the streetlights you can faintly see the redness of his ears.
“Oikawa is here!” You heard your father calling your name. You left your room to see him, talking with your father. “There she is.” The moment his eyes met yours, you felt sudden electricity down your spine. Why does he have to look this good when he only has a week left before he leaves.
“We’ll be on our way.” You both waved at your father. Oikawa wanted to take you on a date today, he would also be doing some last minute shopping. While the two of you were walking, hand in hand together.
The two of you ate at a local restaurant, he said he wanted to eat all his favorite japanese dishes before leaving.
“Let’s go!” He pulled your hand to the jewelry shop. The two of you are still holding hands when the store clerk approaches you. “Hi, we’d like to see some jewelry.”
“Sure, Sir. We have quite a few here that would suit your taste.” You look at Oikawa confusingly. Their talking was muffled when your mind started talking but it got interrupted when he reached for your wrist, trying out different bracelets that the store clerk offered.
“This one is pretty.” You replied silently when he asked you which one you like.
“Why are you doing this, Tooru?” You asked when the two of you arrived at your street. The whole day feels like a distraction for the two of you, as if you two are trying to deny the time.
You stopped walking, turning to him. He faced you with an expression you didn’t see the whole day. The Oikawa you were with earlier was full of jokes, laughter, and sweet eyes, now he’s suddenly gloomy, shoulders dropping down.
“Can we go to your house?” The walk was silent when you arrived at your house. He quietly followed behind you when you entered your room, the moment you shut the door you faced him, trying to make him talk again.
His eyes linger on your face, his left hand stretching to your nape. His face is desperate, his breathing uneven, his eyes a little red. You followed as his eyes traveled from your eyes down to your lips, unknowingly leaning closer to his own lips.
“C-can I?” He asked with heavy breath, eyes never leaving your lips,
“Please.” Your first kiss wasn’t rough, it wasn’t rushed. It was as if time didn’t matter on how you slowly moved your lips with his, it was tender, you enjoyed how foreign it felt.
You felt his arm wrapping around your waist, pulling you closer when you felt like you were melting. You reach to touch his face when you unexpectedly touch something wet that caused you to stop and open your eyes, he’s crying.
“Tooru,” You breathe heavily, still in haze, trying to regain your grip after the kiss you shared with him. His eyes remained close when he buried his face on the crook of your neck as he silently sobbed. You absentmindedly move your palm up and down on his back, as if that would help with the frustration and pain he’s currently experiencing.
He wants to leave in order to find peace in his passion, he wants to escape the constant pressure that awaits him. At the same time, he wants to stay here, with you, with the people he cherished, he wants you but he’s not selfish to admit that.
“I’m sorry.” He doesn’t know what he’s sorry for, is it because of the kiss? His departure? or simply because he’s afraid.
“It’s okay, Tooru.” You force yourself to smile even if he doesn’t see you. Your reason for forgiving him is also just as unclear, whether it was about the kiss or his departure, you forgive him. Either way, you understand him and you don’t want to make this more difficult than it already is.