Summary: You were best friends with Kuroo Tetsurou since middle school. You loved him but he only had eyes for someone else. Years later, you come back to Tokyo as a new person. What do the stars have in store for your relationship?
Pairing: kuroo tetsurou x fem!reader
Warnings: some swearing, timeskip spoilers, possible nsfw
Genre: angst, fluff, romance and comedy
Status: ongoing
masterlist
introductions (will be added soon)
Chapters:
The Beginning (part 1)
The Beginning (part 2)
The First Snow
Horizons
'Tis the Season
🍁 Facts about Autumn Skies 🍁
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a/n: This is my first ever fic. Please bear with my writing especially in the first few chapters lol cos it's been years since i've actually written a story.
Disclaimer: Kuroo Tetsurou, Haikyu!! and other Haikyu!! characters belong to Haruichi Furudate.
“What the shit-” The back of your head throbs, turning around to see what had just smacked you in the head. You’ve just about had it today and getting hit in the head was about to send you over the edge. Whoever threw that is going to get an earful, Until your eyes land on another pair of caramel eyes.
“I’m so sorry!” The man with the strange silver hair smiles at you widely, “Are you okay?” He leans in closer to take a look if your head was alright. “Watch out, dude.” You give off a scoff, standing up straight and fixing your hair. “My bad! We didn’t see you, I just did this crazy spike and stupid idiots saved it.” As he speaks you can feel the confidence radiate off of him. If you hadn’t opened your mouth he probably would still be there talking nonsense.
“Why the hell were you playing volleyball?” You ask him, eyebrows scrunched, and so, so, annoyed. He raises an eyebrow at you, pausing before he answers. “We’re in a gym?” He questions you, The way he questions you makes you feel like you should be embarrassed about something. Though you feel dumb as you look around and realize you had stumbled into the gymnasium. You were so out of it you ended up wandering into a different path than the way you usually go to get to the parking lot.
“I knew that!” You grew embarrassed with obvious burning red on your face. He laughs and leans in a little too close for comfort. You stumble back a bit, furrowing your eyebrows. What the hell was he doing? He’s looking at you like crazy. Taken back, you start to open your mouth to question him.
“You’re really pretty.” He smiles before you could even talk, The words roll off his tongue so smoothly, you’re not really sure how to react.
You look away with blush on your face and you’re wondering what the hell you say back to him. He chuckles as you try to form your words. He was charming as hell, He had no shame.
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That was approximately 2 years ago. Though when you look back you can remember it like it was yesterday. It seemed just like yesterday when you first hung out with Bokuto and he took you fishing, something you rarely enjoyed, but Bokuto made it fun. He ended up fishing a log but you caught your first fish with Bokuto. Well, he reeled it in but it’s still the same right?
Ever since then, You and Bokuto were inseparable, Tied to the hip. So many memories and adventures you could recall. Like that time where you both ditched class and went to the thrift store, picking out outfits for each other, and returning home wearing the horrendous top Bokuto had picked out for you.
Or that time where you and Bokuto found a box of abandoned kittens on the side of the highway. You both cared for them the whole weekend until you knew you both couldn’t care for 6 baby kittens. Bokuto begged to keep them but eventually you convinced him that he’d go into debt taking care of them. And he fell for it.
But your favorite memory was after one of his games. You had been cheering for him all night, and everytime he would get a point he would look up at you and wave. You were his good luck charm, he’d like to call it. He liked looking into the crowd and seeing you. Even if his fangirls were cheering, you’d always cheer the loudest. And after the game, when fans swarmed around him, he grabbed onto your wrist, leading you both out of the pile of fangirls around the both of you.
“You’re my favorite fan.” Bokuto teased. You smile up at the goof, smacking his arm weakly for getting you to blush.
And ever since then, you had feelings for him. You’d never had feelings for anyone like you did with him, He made you feel something nobody else could ever get you to feel. Sure, you’ve had small crushes and “boyfriends” but Kotarou was different.
He always got you to turn away blushing, He always said what he was feeling and thinking. As opposed to you, who holds things in a lot of the time, always thinking before speaking. Being Bokuto’s friend, you learned so much from him and became a different person because of him, in the best way possible.
It was natural the way your feelings grew, anytime you were at school you would hang out with Bokuto, not that you had a choice, he’d always find you in a sea of people. And when you weren’t at school you would be with Bokuto and Akaashi, doing something dumb, most likely. So of course, as the days, weeks, months went by, the way you looked at Bokuto started to change. You went to bed wondering if he’d feel the same way, wondering if he felt what you feel whenever you look into his eyes.
You don’t think so. He never made a move so why should you? You would only hurt yourself by chasing something that doesn’t want you. You were only his best friend, That’s all you’ll ever be to him.
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“What the shit-” Bokuto’s eyes follow the ball and have a clear view of who it has hit. He knew who you were. You were an advanced student, teachers and even the principal had told Bokuto many times that he should reach out to have you help him study. Bokuto cuts out of his daydream, realizing you were rubbing the back of your head still confused as to what had hit your head.
Bokuto marches towards you, Going to make sure you were okay, because that was a nasty hit if he does say so himself. As you turn to look at him, his eyes light up with excitement because for once you actually look at him. He’s been trying to talk to you for a few days now, here and there in class. It was only about helping him out with a subject, of course, nothing else.
“I’m so sorry!” Concerned about your head, he leans in closer to get a better look. “Are you okay?” He notices you fixing yourself up, trying to stand up to him as he realizes he’s practically hovering over you. “Watch out, dude.” You scoff, and Bokuto blinks. He’s confused as to why you're mad, getting hit in the head with a volleyball didn’t hurt that bad right?
He had blurted out as many words as he could think of to try to keep the conversation going. He didn’t pay no attention to what he was saying just as long as you were listening and had your eyes on him.
“Why the hell were you playing volleyball?” He knows that’s a genuine question because you had not looked around, only looked at him with a confused expression. Bokuto wants to laugh, because you’re so cute. Sassy and a bit of an airhead like him. “We’re in a gym?” Bokuto raises an eyebrow at you, signaling for you to look around and see how many volleyballs are flying around and the guys in jersey’s practicing.
When you had finally raised your head high enough to see, he noticed you roll your eyes in embarrassment with a hint of rose on your cheeks, and he swears he could hear his heart skip a beat. “I knew that!” He chuckles at you, wanting to get a longer look at you, he leans in and he notices the features on your face. So unique and beautiful in its own way. He could stare at you all day if you let him because he swears to himself, he has never seen a beauty like yours.
“You’re really pretty.” He blurts out before he could think, Not realizing he had been seeming a bit like a creep. He just couldn’t help himself but get a better look. He notices you turning more red, turning away from him, breaking eye contact.
And from that day, Bokuto had something for you. He didn’t know what it was, but it was something and damn he could not get over it.
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Bokuto had feelings for you too. Making it obvious so many times, and so many times you did not get the hint. He wouldn’t get this close to a girl if he was not interested in them. You were special to him and he tried to show it to you so many times in so many ways.
In bringing you flowers on random days, begging you to come to his games just so he could flex in front of you, calling you at night just to see what you were doing, all he ever thought about was you. From the way you put your hair up, to the way you laugh at his jokes. He was smitten.
You would think from all these feelings swimming inside you both one of you would stop bitching around and make a move, right? Well, not exactly.
That’s far from it actually.
After graduation, the two of you had naturally drifted. It wasn’t the fact that you both stopped liking each other or stopped getting along, it was just how most high school friends go. Someone you used to know to someone you don’t anymore.
You had gotten a place of your own, something you’ve been working so hard for and had started going to university to continue your own education. At first, slowly drifting from Bokuto had been hard, he was there for almost your entire highschool life. He knew so much about you and went through so much with you. Eventually, you decided to bury the feelings you had, nothing had ever happened between you two and it never would again. Sometimes that happens, and you had decided to just let it go. As much as it hurt, it wouldn’t do any good to dwell on it. So you brought your head back up and looked forward, because you don’t want to look back anymore, there was nothing you could change.
As for Bokuto, he took it pretty rough for the first few months. You had started answering less and less, going to his games less and less, started working more. He just thought you wanted time to yourself. He had noticed not having you around was having a toll on his playing ability. There was no one to cheer for him, no one waiting for him in the crowd anymore.
Bokuto knew he would continue to focus on volleyball after highschool, and as the years went by that’s when he joined MSBY. You weren’t around anymore, but he always held out hope. Hope that one day, you’ll walk through the doors back into his life.
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Years had gone by since the last time you saw him, you don’t have the same number as before, not knowing if Bokuto had tried to contact you at all through the past years. You had a new normal now. Waking up, working on an online class, going for a quick jog, getting to another class, going to work, then coming home and sleeping so hard you have bags under your eyes.
There was also something that had been relatively new as well aside from school and work. Your boyfriend would come three times a week to come sleep with you in your bed. It was nice, having someone warm snuggle up next to you as you sleep.
At first the relationship would be a bit awkward and rocky because it’d be one of Bokuto’s old best friends, Tetsurou Kuroo. Kuroo, years before, would be aware of the tension between you and Bokuto. He’d always take a step back because he respected that you both had something, that was until after graduating the pair of you would start to see each other more often, being in the same city and all. And eventually it would end up with late nights of watching movies and playing weird tabletop games.
And eventually, he asked you to be his girlfriend. You accepted hesitantly, not much educated on how it was like being in a relationship but you knew being around Kuroo made you happy, and feel less lonely. A big difference with Kuroo was that he actually made a move, unlike Bokuto. So throwing all caution to the wind, you got with Kuroo.
The relationship was still relatively new, only dating for as little as 5 months, the two of you had been friends for years, close friends. It was comfortable and something that you didn’t have to second guess and worry about. He was sweet to you, made as much time as he could for you while also being busy with volleyball stuff.
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“C’mon, pleaseeee? They’re all asking to see you.” Kuroo gently rubs his thumb against your hip, taking his head out of the crook of your neck and looking up at you. You down at him with tired eyes, close to falling asleep. “What if it’s awkward?” You ask him genuinely. He had been begging for you to go with him to a reunion they all planned for one night, in this gorgeous air bnb, You knew Bokuto would be there. But that wasn’t the reason you didn’t want to go, right? No, you just didn’t want to go because you had to take care of your neighbor's bunny. Still, you also did miss your old friends, you had so many great memories with them.
“It’s just gonna be like old times, beautiful, you have nothing to worry about.” Your boyfriend reassures that it’d be fine, but a feeling inside your stomach didn’t feel so good. You hesitated still, maybe there would be no harm in going. Lost in your thoughts, you look at Kuroo, he’s smiling up at you with devious eyes.
“You didn’t say no!” You giggle at him, “I didn’t say yes, silly” He shrugs and digs his head back into your neck. “It still isn’t a no.” He hums. Your fingertips gently graze his back, “Fine, I’ll go. But only because I want to play games with Kenma again.” You don’t know if this is a good idea, but it might be good to move past the highschool feelings. You haven't seen Bokuto, Akaashi, or even Kenma in awhile, It might be refreshing. You keep telling yourself. Nothing could go that bad right?
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“Oh shit- shit- shit” Looking around frantically, you desperately try to find the matching earring on your left ear. You swore it was on the floor the last time you saw, you don’t know how you lose things so easily, but you do. Everything was ready to go, checking off on the list as you got yourself situated. Bags packed, make-up packed, hair products packed. All set, maybe it was a lot for just one night, but you liked to be prepared. You planned to be at the air bnb in less than 10 minutes, which means you would have to leave in… 15 minutes ago. Kuroo had been waiting outside, in his car, for the last 20 minutes as you got yourself ready. Eventually you were taking too long looking for that earring you decided to go with no earrings, and as an alternative you put on a necklace, it matched better anyway.
Barely slipping on your shoes out the door, Kuroo finally spots you walking out, starting his car. You flash him a smile as you open the passenger door, “You look beautiful.” Humming and rolling your eyes, you never know how to take compliments and just for that, that’s the reason Kuroo compliments you even more.
As he drives further from your place, you gulp, and fiddle with your fingers out of nervousness. Though you still put on a poker face, just so you don’t have to worry your boyfriend. The closer you two got, the more it seemed like your shoes were shrinking, eventually having to take off your own jacket. Why were you so nervous? You’re fine, Y/n. There was nothing to be nervous about.
Maybe you were overthinking this whole situation, it was just one night. Yeah, you were freaking your pretty little head out for nothing.
“C’mon, sweetheart.” Kuroo opens the door for you, hand out for you to grab it. You thank him for being so sweet, taking his hand, letting him lead you to the front of the huge air bnb you see before your eyes. It was top tier and you had no idea how Kenma had this much money to rent this place out, Even if it was for one night, it was like a mansion.
The front door swings open as you both enter, immediately you hear all the voices that were filled in your highschool memories, it’s nostalgic. “Kuroo!” A voice booms in your ear causing you to look to your left, spotting Bokuto and Akaashi approaching the both of you. Being behind Kuroo, they haven’t spotted you yet. You take a gulp and swallow down that anxiety, letting yourself loose, you’re supposed to have fun tonight. “Hey man, you look no different!” Kuroo laughs, putting both of your bags to the side on the floor. “Akaashi! You said I looked so different from the last time you saw me!” Bokuto looks at Akaashi disappointed, it makes you chuckle. This is still the same man you knew years and years ago.
As the pair start to bicker, you peek out, taking a step from Kuroo to get a better view of where everyone was. Looking around you see so many more of your old friends. A small smile spreads across your face, until your eyes stop on your old best friend, staring back at you with wide eyes.
“Y/n! I missed you!” His voice is still smooth as ever, wrapping his arms around you, bringing you in for a hug. With no time to react, your arms wrap around his neck, taking his scent, just like you did back then.
A bit surprised, the more you sink into the hug. You thought he would be angry with you, yell at you, you didn’t even think he would talk to you, or look at you. But that was not the case at all.
It takes a few seconds before you pull away, looking at Kuroo who had been eyeing you two for a bit. “It’s so nice to you, Bokuto-san.” Smiling innocently up at him, he returns one back.
Bokuto had one of those smiles where no matter what you would smile back, he wore his heart on his sleeves often, no matter what you always knew his intentions were pure. You couldn’t help but get sucked back into the feelings you had tucked away so long ago. As the memories flooded your mind, you remember exactly how he made you feel.
The tension in the air is thick, Nobody says anything, instead they’re looking at the both of you. Neither you or Bokuto notice anyone else around, almost as if you two are the only ones in the room, because all you both could see is each other’s eyes, full of pent up love that has gone on for years. And you swear that they’re hidden away, but as he scans your face, his eyes soften, and you don’t know what to do with yourself. You can’t help yourself.
“Um-” Akaashi clears the air, bringing you and Bokuto back to your surroundings. “Let’s go, Hinata had planned a bunch of games and activities for us.” Akaashi’s voice is soft, not to cause the tension to be more awkward than it already was. Leading the three of you into the backyard where you had seen Hinata and Kenma setting up cornhole and many other games to keep the group company.
You take a breath, taking Kuroo’s hand into your own. You didn’t want him to get the wrong idea. There was nothing there… Right?
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Kuroo’s arms are gentle but strong, you feel them carry you to the upstairs bedroom where the both of you stay for the night. You had fallen asleep after multiple games of charades, not knowing how long it had been going on. The last thing you remember is Kenma trying to imitate a turtle. Naturally, your eyes had gotten heavier, falling into a deep sleep.
So you wake up, a bit absent-minded on where you are now. A few seconds set in after waking up, Kuroo sleeping next to you peacefully. You groan, grabbing the phone that was charging next to the nightstand, seeing the clock turn to 4:30 am. You don’t remember putting your phone to charge, most likely it was Kuroo who had done so for you.
Giving him a quick peck on his disheveled hair, your mouth feels dry, Realizing the last drink you had was a shot of vodka the guys had offered to you. You groan, wanting to go back to sleep but you are in desperate need of water.
Your feet drag on the hard-wood floor as you go down the stairs, it’s messy down there, dark as well. They must’ve stayed up a bit more before heading to bed. Being careful not to wake or scare anyone, you quietly make your way into the marble kitchen. Drinks and beers still open from the night before, it makes you want to gag, hating the smell of liquor.
Grabbing a bottle of water on the top shelf of the fridge, you take a sip. Feeling more and more refreshed as the water gets in your system. You hear a floorboard creak a few inches away, snapping your head behind your back, you blink. Staring in the black abyss for a few seconds.
A tall muscular shadow emerges from the darkness, and you gasp, not knowing who was there yet. Until you saw the silver hair shining from the moon hitting it through the window. “Bo!” You scream as quietly as you could. “You scared the shit out of me!” You put down your water bottle, breathing regulating as you realize it’s just Bokuto. “Me?! You’re the one who scared me!” He half whispers.
“I thought someone broke in!” He chuckles a bit, finding the situation another one of those moments where you both are just idiots. “You’re such an idiot.” You tease, grabbing a marker from the counter, labeling the water bottle with your name.
“Why are you still up?” As you look at him, you see the bags that had formed under his eyes, hair messier than he would like it, Almost like he hasn’t gotten any sleep.
“I just… Couldn’t sleep.” Bokuto sounds defeated, you know him, he wouldn’t just not sleep for no reason, something was definitely bothering him. Though, being a bit awkward, you don’t know what to say, not wanting to push him or engage in this conversation. You don’t want him to get the wrong idea, or anyone else for that matter. Your boyfriend already suspects something is going on, you shouldn’t ruin anything else.
But you can’t seem to walk away.
“What’s wrong?” Your voice is sincere, wanting to make sure he was okay. “Just thinking, don’t worry.” He reassures you with a smile, and with that your feet start to head towards back the staircase. You knew you shouldn’t push it anymore.
“Do you hate me?” Bokuto’s voice is reluctant, almost like he blurted the question out by accident. Taken by surprise, you turn to look back at him, confused as to why he would ask. Because the truth is, you could never hate him.
“I don’t,” You pause, “Why do you think that?” And by the way he looks away from you, he probably isn’t doing okay. He’s never looked away from you before.
“You’ve been avoiding me all night.”
Oh. That’s what he’s been up thinking about. You didn’t think you were being obvious or anything. You weren’t trying to avoid him, if anything all you wanted to do was talk to him just how you both would back then. But being with Kuroo, you shouldn’t even be thinking about the old times with Bokuto. Because if you did, the feelings would come rushing back again, and Kuroo was so good to you. He doesn’t deserve that.
“No, I haven’t” Shaky breaths are all that comes out of your mouth, so convincing.
“You say that, but you haven’t talked to me at all this whole night.” Crossing his arms, you knew he was right, what else should he think? You haven’t acknowledged him this entire night.
“Don’t take it personal, Bo.” Though you know he will, Bokuto always took everything seriously.
“Why did you stop being my friend?” Your heart breaks a little as you could hear the hurt in his voice. Still, you don’t understand, why was it a big deal?
“No I didn’t.” You lie.
“You left me behind…” You take a deep breath, not daring to let the tears fall. “And you took Kuroo with you.” He pouts in the way he always used to do, which always left you giving in.
Before you could answer, he cuts you off, “Why did you pick him? Over me?” You stand there, starting to shake because you never wanted to be the reason why Bokuto was upset, he was such a happy boy, and that’s all he deserved, was to be happy. So as you stand there, watching him open up in front of you, years later, you start to slowly break.
“I didn’t choose anyone, Bo.”
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“Akaashiiii, why is Y/n mad at me?” Bokuto had been in this trance for days. Trying to text you, with no response, no delivery notification had even showed up on his phone. Not knowing that you had changed your number, only thinking that you had ended up blocking him.
“She’s probably busy, she has a life of her own you know?” Bokuto huffs.
“Of course I know that!” He pauses, “But she wouldn’t just leave me out of the blue like that, that’s not like her.” He thought you just needed some space, as normal people do. Maybe you’d be going through something but once that was done, you’d come back to him, normal and beautiful as ever. But once you didn’t, he really had thought he did something wrong to make you go away.
That was until hours later he had seen you post on your own story. Hand in hand with one of his good friends, Kuroo. A heart sticker plastered onto the screen, with a tag of Kuroo’s own account.
He swore he heard his heart crack inside.
He wanted to be the one holding your hand. He should’ve been the one holding your hand, he’s the one who’s been wanting it for years. He’s angry with himself because all this waiting had been for nothing, because you have someone that loves you, and he’s angry with himself because it isn’t him.
But even then if you hadn’t talked to him in years, or seen him, He would still be looking for you. Everywhere he went. He would still be thinking of you, loving every inch of you even if you weren’t physically there with him. And seeing that picture, he knew that you were gone a long time ago.
And he knew that no matter who you were with, what you were doing, where you went, he would still love you, even if you didn’t feel the same way.
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“Did you have fun, babe?” Kuroo gently squeezes the top of your thigh, driving with one hand on the wheel. You smile up at him.
Of course you did, But you were in conflict with yourself. Because of course you adored Kuroo, he was your first real boyfriend, he had been so good to you. But every single time, you were always brought back to Bokuto. No matter who you were with, what you were doing, where you went, everything always brought you back to him.
“Of course, I’m just severely hung over.” Chuckling, you put your hand over his, not wanting him to question what has been on your mind ever since the morning. You were going home now, though. Away from Bokuto, You could finally get back to your normal life, without having to second guess your feelings again.
As you got home, Kuroo insisted on bringing your bag inside. Following him inside, he gave you a quick peck on the cheek, something that always brought you calmness. “Thank you, Tetsu.”
He smiles gently at you, “I’ll come over tomorrow, I just have to deal with work tonight.” He speaks so softly, gently to you. You nod at him, reassuring that you were fine to spend a night alone. And you really needed it, after having a long night, while also dealing with a hangover.
Kuroo closes your front door, leaving you alone in your cozy apartment. Taking off your shoes, you head for the bathroom door, ready to take a relaxing bath. And damn that was the best bath you’ve ever had in your life.
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“This damn tv!” You curse, throwing the remote somewhere onto the couch that will definitely be in one of the cracks later. The tv had been flickering for some time now, along with your lights. The rain outside had gotten heavier as the hours went by, there wasn’t much for you to do.
Fuck the tv. You walk into your kitchen, scanning the fridge, looking for something to eat. Though you hadn’t gone grocery shopping yet, all you had was a bologna sandwich that was- well wayyy overdue.
You debated on eating at your favorite restaurant tonight, well with how the weather is looking that looked like it wasn’t going to happen. Grabbing your phone, you dial the number of another restaurant that does take out. That was until there was a knock at your door.
Who the hell would be at your door at this hour? Kuroo was busy with work, your family was out of town at the moment, who else could this be?
Hurrying to open the door, you put your phone down. Your hand gripping the knob, the door swings open and you hear the drips and thunder coming from outside.
Bokuto stands at your door. Hoodie over his head, drenched in rain. Taken by surprise, you take a moment before asking what the hell he was doing here.
“Bokuto? What are you doing here?” Your eyes shift all over his body, not knowing how to react. Should you be happy he was here? Should you be angry as to why the hell he was here, after specifically telling him that you weren’t interested in this friendship anymore the night before?
He smiles gently at you, taking a deep breath before speaking.
“I love you.” At this point you're even more confused.
“What do you mean-”
“You know what I mean, don’t make me say it again just for you to turn me away.” He finishes your sentence with his words, words that break your heart because you don’t want to turn him away, but you have to.
“Kou-” Before you could put your foot down, he speaks again.
“Please, just let me say what I need to say-” So you do.
“I know you’re with Kuroo, and I’m happy that you are happy” A genuine smile peeks from his lips.
“But, I know if you give me the chance, I won’t let you go, and I’ll love you just as much as I did the first day I met you, Y/n.”
Frozen in your spot, you take a second to comprehend what he’s telling you. He’s loved you since the first day? The day you got hit with a ball? He’s loved you for that long? There’s no way.
“You don’t know what you’re talking about.” A blush spreads across your cheeks, making you turn away from him.
“But I do, Y/n.” He sighs lightly, sneaking his arms past your arms and wrapping his arms gently resting on your waist. And as you look into his eyes, you know he’s being serious, you can’t bring yourself to tear him away from you.
“Nobody, Absolutely nobody in the world makes me feel the way you do. You can stay not believing me, but I know what I feel when I’m with you, there’s nothing better than when I’m with you, Y/n. And I’m so sorry it took me so long to say it to you, but give me a chance-”
And as the tears escape from your lids, you can’t seem to hold yourself together anymore.
“No, Bokuto! You can’t just make your way in here and beg me to give you a chance! I’ve felt the same way for so, so long! But it’s no use, I’m with Kuroo now.” You move your hands up to wipe away the streams that burn your cheeks. Bokuto’s eyes soften, glistening as he watches you cry in front of him, A sight that he’s always hated ever since high school.
“I know you love me too..” He trails off his sentence waiting to see your reaction.
“No, I don’t! I-I love Kuroo now.” You’re angry with him. Angry with yourself. Angry at the world, because how could all this time you both felt the same but nothing had ever happened? And now years later the both of you are standing in the doorway, with the rain starting to creep inside, You can’t help but want to kiss him. But you couldn’t because you had a wonderful boyfriend, who adored you, and now with Bokuto here, There was nowhere else for you to run, there was no solution to this problem.
“Please, just leave.” Before he could open his mouth to say something, you spoke.
He shakes his head, a tear streaming down his face. A sight you had not seen in so long. “I don’t want to let you go again, Y/n! At least not until I know that I did everything I can because I’ve loved you the longest, This isn’t fair!”
You shake your head, pulling his hands off your waist. “This isn’t fair, Bokuto!” Sobbing, you don’t dare to look up at him. You silently cry into your palms, Bokuto doesn’t know what to say. Well, he does, but he knows it isn’t fair as well. He knows he’s being selfish with you, but he cannot go on without knowing if he did everything he could to get you to be his.
A silent minute goes by, with no words spoken, only the sound of rain behind the both of you. Until he grabs your hands gently, his soft hands bring you to look up at him, with red, and swollen eyes.
“You can’t tell me you don’t feel something for me too…” He whispers softly, his eyes are low, a small smile gently telling you that it’s going to be okay, no matter what. As you look at him, you can’t look away. You focus on Bokuto, and only him at the moment, because he’s here telling you everything you’ve been wanting to hear since high school, years later. You try to form words, to answer him with. To tell him that this isn’t right anymore, the time for you both has run out.
But you can’t, because he was right. Looking into his eyes, you feel nothing but love. Your heart yearns for him even after all these years. You have no answer, because he was right. No matter what, your heart will always choose him.
This was sitting in my notes for the past 3 years and I suddenly felt inspired to complete it because I have to procrastinate on my work lol. Some charas are repeated because I can see them doing both.
❥ Openly. Confidently. Smooth-ass talker. Will flirt with you any opportunity they get.
- Oikawa, Kuroo, Atsumu, Saeko, Terushima
❥ Flirt with you but not as openly as the former. They're cautious about making you uncomfortable. Lots of compliments and/or little jokes.
Not usually favouring sports, you’re in the journalism club to make use of your great eye for design and writing. After watching one of your school’s volleyball team’s official games last season, you took notice of the boring brochures they handed out with the players’ information. You hadn’t yet chosen what to do for your project this semester and decided to lend your talents to making a better representation of the team’s charms and talents. What you didn’t expect to get out of the project was a date.
You received permission from their coach and captain and set up some equipment to take your photos in a room adjacent to the gym during practice. Hopefully, you can encourage them all to pose confidently. In order to not disturb their whole practice, you ask one grade to join you at a time, starting with the first-years and ending with the third-years. Good luck!
You already know the captain of your school’s volleyball team. Sometimes you wondered if Kuroo knew everyone. The two of you have a lot of classes together and you would be lying if you said you hated hearing his charming comments and finding fun ways to quip back at him. Perhaps you even developed a little crush. So when you decided on the project for your club, you asked him with the biggest possible doe eyes to approve it and help get his players to cooperate. He was more than happy to help you and arrange everything, despite telling you that you owe him.
Fortunately, the first years were easy. Absolute sweethearts that were so excited to show off. You had almost finished with the second-years when you met your first obstacle of the day, unless you count Lev being too tall for you to photograph without a stool to stand on and Inuoka not being able to stand still so most of the pictures ended up slightly blurry. No, this was an actual problem.
Kenma was having a bad day and didn’t want to.
Nekoma’s pampered prince was really not in the mood for this today, and with every pose you didn’t approve of as good enough, he got more fussy. His facial expressions were very expressive, especially now that he was annoyed, it just wasn’t the emotion you wanted. You sighed and stomped your foot a little, looking at him with a slight frown. “Can’t you try a little harder, Kenma?”
“Does it really matter? Just use the first ones,” he complained, sounding incredibly bored.
You were trying to resist saying you would snitch on him to Kuroo like a little kid, but it was getting gradually more difficult. “This project is important to me, I want to make all of you look good.”
“Are you saying I look ugly?” Okay, now he was being childish. The two of you glared at each other for a second before Yamamoto stepped in to yell at his teammate about how a pretty girl needed their help and Kuroo told them to do everything you say and then hurry back to practice. On the contrary, that only made Kenma more apathetic. “I won’t start posing up a storm just because Kuroo has a crush on her.”
You froze, biting your lip as a blush flushed over your cheeks at the reveal. He has a crush on you? Yamamoto started waving his hands as if stressed about the information being revealed, but he only stuttered out a few syllables that didn’t turn into anything usable. You pick up your camera and look through the pictures you had taken of Kenma again, still chewing on your lip as you try to focus on the task at hand. “Can you do this again, please? Last one.” You held up the camera to show him the reference photo and he silently agreed, standing ready for you. You change the angle a bit and do your best to adjust the lighting before finally dismissing the second-years. When Kenma was about to leave, you carefully tapped his shoulder, not really meeting his eyes. “Is it true? About Kuroo…”
Kenma heard his best friend talk about you all the time. Your wit and charm matched his and he was especially obsessed with how you started doing your hair lately. The setter didn’t look so annoyed with you anymore, which made you glad. “Yes. Please date him or something so he’ll stop whining to me about it.”
You were a bit nervous when the third-years arrived, switching between avoiding Kuroo and coming on too strong. How do you act when you know someone you like likes you back?
Yaku and Kai were great, following your instructions and easily giving you several options for what photo to use of each. As Kuroo stepped up to the plate, he talked to you while you got the camera ready and fetched the little stool you used for the first years. “I hope no one gave you any trouble today,” he said, sounding like he would rather have a normal conversation right now.
“Your best friend and I got into it but we came to an agreement,” you said, gaining a bit more confidence as you went along. That made him chuckle, a fond look on his face as he didn’t doubt Kenma would fight the spotlight. You smiled at him before holding up the camera again, making sure the lens was on him when you kept talking. “I didn’t know you had a crush on me!”
Oh, the betrayal. As Yaku’s laughter burst behind you, you watched through the camera lens as Kuroo faltered and his smile fell, snapping as many photos as you could. His face suddenly matched the uniform and his shoulders were sky-high. “Huh?” he said. He was flustered, brain trying desperately to decide if he should deny it or follow the flow. Damn it, Kenma. Suddenly, Kuroo regretted how he had stolen some of Kenma’s snacks earlier. “You’re not going to use those pictures, are you?” he ended up saying, unusually awkward. It was fun, seeing Kuroo stumble.
Yaku and Kai end up throwing in a little comment about being finished anyway and leaving the area, giving the two of you some space. When he came back to the gym, Yaku threw an arm over Kenma’s shoulder and ruffled his hair, giving him a confusing mix of praise and scolding.
Meanwhile, you were smiling at Kuroo as he stepped a little closer to you. “Of course not, they’re for my special collection.” You wiggled your eyebrows and Kuroo finally felt his shoulders relax a little.
“I did say you owe me one for this project, how about I take you out this weekend?” he asked, usual charm back in place along with his crooked smirk.
“That sounds great, Tetsuro,” you agreed, taking a moment to say anything else as you stared at him up close. Your cheeks were burning at this point and you fumbled with the camera. “Now, come on. We have to show off Nekoma’s captain!”
“You got it, boss.”
/please note that Yaku calls Kenma their «pampered prince» in season 4, so that is not me making a nasty comment about Kenma. I just think it’s a very cute nickname that fit the scenario!
“i just came to drop some of your stuff off since we’re… you know?…” your voice trailed off quietly as the grip on the box you were holding faltered slightly upon the sight before you.
a shirtless and freshly showered kuroo towered over you as he leant against the front door frame, gentle smile tugged on his lips. “thank you.” he spoke gratefully, hands brushing over yours as he took the box from your trembling hands.
yourself and kuroo had broken up around two weeks ago now and you’d decided you’d waited long enough to let the initial pain settle before dropping by some things he’d left in your apartment. the breakup wasn’t bitter nor was it much of a scene, but the two of you were just at different stages of your life and insecurity got the better of you as you came to the devastating conclusion that you no longer fit anywhere in kuroo’s stable and sure life. the man begged to differ but your doubts were adamant and you forced yourself to let him go no matter how hard it was for the two of you.
“how have you been?” kuroo’s voice snapped you out of your dazed trance as his eyes locked onto yours the second you looked up. “fine!” you blurted out. “i’ve been fine thank you… yourself?” you asked meekly, finding holding eye contact to be quite the challenge. he laughed quietly at your flustered state. you’d broken his heart sure, but that didn’t change the fact he still found you both amusing and wildly attractive and the way you were clearly fighting the urge to stop yourself from looking down his exposed chest and lower told him the feeling was still mutual.
“hey” he tilted your head up with his index finger gently under your chin. “eyes up here.” he couldn’t hold back the teasing smile any longer. utter amusement twinkled in his eyes as you tried to sputter out a response for your lack of formality. “shut up.” you groaned as you softly slapped his chest.
yours eyes widened.
you were exes. you couldn’t just go around touching him so casually anymore. that was against the rules. but… he’d done it first right? he didn’t hesitate to hook his finger under your chin just now did he?
you quickly removed your hand and muttered out a quick apology which was received in a way you weren’t mad about, but most certainly wasn’t expecting. the box of his belongings were now being thrusted back in your direction, he gave you a look to indicate he was waiting for you to take it.
“it’s your stuff.” you raised an eyebrow confused as to why he was giving you back a box of his belongings. “yeah? and it’s going back to our apartment.” ‘our apartment?’ you thought as you slowly took the box back into your grasp. “you miss me.” kuroo stated the obvious as you scoffed with heated cheeks. “you miss me more.” you retorted to which kuroo could only smile. “maybe i do.”
had kuroo of had a shirt on in the first place maybe none of this would’ve happened. you wouldn’t have been so distracted and you could’ve ditched his things with him and left just like that. deep down however, you knew that it didn’t matter if he had a shirt on or not. kuroo was distracting both naked and dressed, you would’ve wound up wrapped around his finger just like that regardless and while you partially hated yourself for it, you were glad it gave you the opportunity for a second try.
turning back to face your car you stepped down the path before stopping to turn back briefly “it’s a tuesday… which is your day to cook.”. kuroo’s eyes lit up as he grinned while leaning off the front door frame before replying. “i’d cook everyday if it meant i’d get to keep you this time.” you snorted but didn’t bother to hold back the relieved smile that had been fighting it’s way onto your face. “deal.”
Y/N and Kuroo, who once shared a passionate relationship that ended in heartbreak. After their painful breakup, Y/N carries the memories of their time together, fate orchestrates a meeting where Kuroo is wearing the scarf she had given him. As Y/N watches him from a distance, emotions resurface, evoking a flood of bittersweet memories.
WC. 4.5k
A/N. Idk plot is pretty plain and mid for this one. I just like the the writing in this one
Masterlink - Songs Unwritten
The soft glow of chandeliers adorned the elegant banquet hall, illuminating the faces of corporate elites and professionals gathered for the Japan Olympic and Professional Volleyball Company's celebration. Among the attendees was Y/N, an ambitious and passionate young woman, who worked diligently on the corporate side of the organization. Her eyes sparkled with excitement as she mingled with colleagues and exchanged stories of triumphs and challenges.
Amidst the sea of strangers, her gaze was inexplicably drawn to a tall, dark-haired man, Kuroo, who stood in a conversation with fellow associates. He had an air of confidence and a warm smile that seemed to invite her in. He was a part of the Japan Volleyball Association, specifically within the Sports Promotion division.
The soft hum of conversations and the clinking of glasses filled the air at the corporate banquet. Y/N stood amidst the crowd, her eyes scanning the room for familiar faces. She felt a bit out of place, but she knew the event was essential for networking and building connections in her career.
As she sipped her drink, she noticed a group of people engaged in lively banter across the room. Her eyes were drawn to a tall figure with tousled dark hair and a mischievous glint in his eyes. It was Kuroo, and he seemed to be the center of attention.
She reminded herself that networking was her goal, and maybe striking up a conversation with someone as engaging as Kuroo could prove beneficial. Curiosity getting the best of her, Y/N found herself making her way towards him, and as their eyes met, an instant connection sparked between them. Like moths to a flame, they were drawn to each other, their magnetic attraction undeniable.
Taking a deep breath to steady her nerves, she approached the group and mustered a smile.
"Hi there, mind if I join in?" Y/N asked, trying her best to appear confident.
Kuroo's eyes flickered with surprise, but he quickly broke into a warm smile. "Not at all! The more, the merrier," he replied, his voice tinged with a hint of playfulness.
Introductions were made, and Y/N found herself drawn into the conversation effortlessly. Kuroo had a way of making people feel at ease, and his witty remarks had everyone laughing. As they talked, Y/N discovered that Kuroo shared her passion for volleyball and that they both had worked tirelessly to contribute to the sport they loved.
They exchanged stories of their experiences, the challenges they faced, and the moments of triumph that made it all worthwhile. As they spoke, Y/N realized that beneath Kuroo's charismatic exterior was a genuine love for the sport and a deep dedication to his work.
"I've seen your name in some of the promotional materials for the Japan Volleyball Association," Y/N said, a touch of admiration in her voice. "Your team is doing a fantastic job promoting the sport."
Kuroo's cheeks flushed slightly, and he scratched the back of his head in a bashful manner. "Thanks! It's a team effort, and I'm lucky to work with such passionate people. What about you? I've heard great things about the corporate side of the Olympic and Professional Volleyball Company."
Y/N blushed at the compliment. "I'm just a small part of the team, but I'm proud of the work we do to support the athletes and ensure smooth operations. Volleyball means a lot to me, so being able to contribute in any way feels incredibly rewarding."
Their eyes locked for a moment, and Y/N felt a spark of connection between them. It was as if they understood each other on a deeper level, beyond their shared love for volleyball.
The evening passed in a blur of laughter, shared anecdotes, and the thrill of discovering kindred spirits. As the night wore on, the crowd thinned, and Y/N found herself still engrossed in conversation with Kuroo.
"You know, I was a bit nervous about attending this event tonight," Y/N admitted, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment.
Kuroo chuckled softly. "You? Nervous? I find that hard to believe. You seem like a natural at navigating these social gatherings."
"I guess appearances can be deceiving," Y/N replied with a shy smile. "But I'm glad I came. Meeting you has been a highlight of the night."
Kuroo's eyes softened, and he leaned in a little closer. "The feeling is mutual. There's something about you that's refreshing and genuine. I'm glad you approached."
Kuroo's charisma was undeniable, an enigmatic magnetism that drew people to him like moths to a flame. From the moment he entered a room, he exuded a vibrant energy that seemed to light up the atmosphere around him. His mischievous grin and playful eyes hinted at a personality that was both charming and approachable.
Confidence exuded from every fiber of his being, but it was never overpowering or arrogant. Instead, it was a quiet assurance that made those around him feel at ease. He had a gift for making people feel valued and heard, as if they were the most important person in the world at that very moment.
Kuroo's humor was infectious, and his witty remarks often left people laughing, the sound of their joy filling the air like a delightful melody. He had a knack for finding common ground with almost anyone he met, effortlessly striking up conversations and building connections that felt genuine and authentic.
His passion for volleyball was palpable, and when he spoke about the sport he loved, his eyes lit up with a fervent fire. It was evident that volleyball wasn't just a job for him; it was a part of his soul. He spoke with such enthusiasm and knowledge that even those unfamiliar with the sport couldn't help but be drawn into his world.
But what truly set Kuroo apart was his ability to listen. When someone spoke, he didn't just hear their words; he listened with genuine interest, absorbing every detail and emotion. He had a way of making people feel seen and understood, as if their thoughts and feelings mattered in the grand tapestry of life.
Time seemed to fly by when in his company, and conversations with him were always filled with intellectual stimulation and heartfelt connections. He was a master of the art of conversation, effortlessly navigating various topics and keeping everyone engaged.
Yet, for all his charisma and charm, there was an air of humility about Kuroo. He never boasted about his achievements or sought attention for his accomplishments. Instead, he focused on uplifting others and celebrating their successes, making them feel like stars in their own right.
In a world where genuine connections were often hard to come by, Kuroo stood out like a beacon of warmth and authenticity. People gravitated towards him not just for his charm, but because being around him made them feel better about themselves and the world around them.
His charisma wasn't a mask he put on for show; it was an intrinsic part of who he was - a genuine, kind-hearted, and passionate soul who left a lasting impression on everyone fortunate enough to cross his path.
As the night drew to a close, Y/N found herself reluctant to part ways. But eventually, they exchanged contact information, promising to keep in touch. As Y/N walked away from the banquet, she couldn't help but feel a flutter of excitement in her chest. The connection she had felt with Kuroo was unlike anything she had experienced before, and she couldn't wait to see where it would lead them. Little did she know that their encounter was just the beginning of a passionate and tumultuous journey filled with love and volleyball, intertwining their lives in unexpected ways.
As days turned into weeks, Y/N and Kuroo's relationship blossomed. They shared moments of pure bliss, where time seemed to stand still. Their passion for each other was mirrored in their shared love for the sport of volleyball. They attended games together, cheering on the teams, and reveling in the excitement of every spike and serve.
The sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink as Y/N and Kuroo strolled hand in hand along the bustling streets of Tokyo. Y/N was ecstatic when he finally asked her out.
Kuroo's mischievous grin hadn't left his face since they started their little adventure, and Y/N couldn't help but be infected by his playful energy. He had a way of making even the simplest activities feel like grand adventures.
As they passed a street vendor selling cotton candy, Kuroo's eyes lit up with childlike excitement. "Hey, do you want some cotton candy?" he asked, his eyes twinkling with delight.
Y/N giggled and nodded, the idea of sharing cotton candy with him sounding like the perfect dose of whimsy. They approached the vendor, and Kuroo ordered two fluffy, colorful clouds of sugar.
As they walked along, each holding one end of the cotton candy, they couldn't resist stealing playful bites from each other's treat. The sweet, sugary taste mingled with their laughter, creating a perfect moment of joy and connection.
"Hey, you got some on your nose!" Kuroo teased, pointing to a smudge of pink on Y/N's nose. He leaned in and gently wiped it away with his thumb, making her heart flutter.
"Oh, really?" Y/N replied, trying to keep a straight face before retaliating with her own mischief. She playfully swiped some cotton candy and tried to smush it onto Kuroo's cheek.
He laughed and dodged her attempt, then scooped up a handful of cotton candy, lightly patting it onto her cheek. "Now we're even!" he declared with a grin.
Y/N rolled her eyes playfully but couldn't hide her amusement. Being with Kuroo felt like being carefree, like she could let go of her worries and just enjoy the present moment.
They continued their stroll, their laughter and chatter blending seamlessly with the vibrant city ambiance. Kuroo spotted a street performer juggling colorful balls and decided to join in the fun. He convinced Y/N to stand in as his audience, and he attempted his best imitation of the performer's juggling act, eliciting cheers and applause from his delighted companion.
As the evening wore on, they stumbled upon an arcade filled with flashing lights and enticing games. Kuroo's eyes sparkled with excitement, and he dragged Y/N inside, promising her an unforgettable experience.
They tried their hand at various games, laughing at each other's antics and cheering each other on. Kuroo won Y/N a stuffed animal from one of the claw machines, and she couldn't stop smiling at the thoughtful gesture.
But the highlight of the arcade visit was undoubtedly the dance-off game. Kuroo, who claimed to have some hidden dance moves, stepped up to the challenge. Y/N couldn't stop giggling as she watched him groove to the beat, his exaggerated dance moves earning him a crowd of amused onlookers.
Not one to be left out, Y/N joined him, and they danced together like no one was watching. They spun and twirled, their laughter filling the arcade as they danced to the rhythm of their hearts.
The night had been a whirlwind of laughter, shared adventures, and genuine connection. As Y/N and Kuroo reached the entrance of Y/N's apartment building, they came to a bittersweet realization that their first date was coming to an end.
They stood there for a moment, the city lights casting a warm glow on their faces, neither wanting to say goodbye just yet. Kuroo gently brushed a strand of hair behind Y/N's ear, his touch sending a shiver of anticipation down her spine.
"I had an amazing time tonight," Kuroo said softly, his eyes locked on hers. "Thank you for making it so special."
Y/N's heart skipped a beat as she replied, "I had an amazing time too. You made every moment unforgettable."
There was a brief pause, as if time stood still between them, before Kuroo leaned in slowly. His lips met hers in a tender and hesitant kiss, filled with all the emotions they had shared throughout the night - joy, excitement, and an unspoken promise of something more.
The kiss was soft and sweet, a gentle exploration of each other's feelings. It felt like the perfect culmination of their connection, a moment of vulnerability and trust shared between two souls who had found something extraordinary in each other.
As they pulled away, Y/N's cheeks flushed with a mixture of excitement and shyness. Kuroo's eyes sparkled with affection, and he cupped her cheek in his hand, his thumb brushing gently against her skin.
"I don't want this night to end," Kuroo confessed, his voice barely above a whisper.
Y/N smiled, her heart swelling with happiness. "Me neither," she replied, her fingers intertwining with his. "But I have a feeling that this is just the beginning."
Kuroo grinned, his playful charm returning. "You're right. I can't wait to see what the future holds for us."
And with that, they lingered for a few more moments, savoring the magic of their first date and the promise of a love that was yet to fully bloom. As they said their goodbyes, Y/N felt a sense of hope and excitement, knowing that she had found someone who made her heart race and brought joy to every moment they spent together.
As she walked into her apartment, she couldn't wipe the smile off her face. The night had been a whirlwind of emotions, and she couldn't wait to see where this newfound connection with Kuroo would lead them. Little did she know that their first kiss was just the beginning of a passionate and transformative journey of love and volleyball, intertwining their lives in ways they could never have imagined.
In the days that followed their first kiss, Y/N and Kuroo found themselves inseparable. Their romance blossomed quickly, fueled by a shared passion for volleyball and an unyielding desire to explore the world together. They embarked on spontaneous adventures, jetting off to different cities to attend volleyball matches and immerse themselves in new cultures.
Every moment they spent together felt like a whirlwind of emotions - laughter, excitement, and an overwhelming sense of connection. They shared tender moments under starlit skies, made beautiful memories as they wandered hand in hand through bustling streets, and dreamt of a future where they could build a life together.
Their love story seemed like a fairytale, with each passing day deepening their affection for one another. Y/N couldn't help but fall more in love with Kuroo's adventurous spirit and the way he made her feel alive. He had a way of sweeping her off her feet, making her forget about the worries of the world as they got lost in each other's company.
But as their relationship progressed, signs of trouble began to emerge. Kuroo's restless nature and frequent travels for work started to strain their connection. Long distances and irregular schedules made it challenging for them to find time for each other. Communication issues crept in, as they struggled to bridge the gap created by the demands of their respective jobs.
Y/N felt a growing sense of insecurity as Kuroo's availability became inconsistent. She cherished the moments they had together, but when he was away, doubts crept into her mind. She longed for more stability and reassurance, unsure if their love alone could sustain the growing distance between them.
However, their demanding careers often kept them apart for extended periods. Kuroo's responsibilities at the Japan Volleyball Association meant frequent travels and late-night meetings, leaving Y/N feeling lonely and uncertain about their future. Insecurities began to creep into their minds, and they found themselves questioning whether their love alone could sustain their relationship.
Misunderstandings surfaced, leading to arguments that left emotional scars. The pressure of their respective careers added weight to their love, and the rollercoaster of emotions threatened to tear them apart. Y/N couldn't help but wonder if their love was strong enough to endure the trials they faced.
Despite her reservations, Y/N clung to the belief that their love was strong enough to conquer any obstacle. She tried to be understanding and patient, hoping that their deep connection would eventually prevail over the challenges they faced.
They had their moments of bliss, but it became increasingly evident that they were both struggling to find a balance between their individual ambitions and their life as a couple. Kuroo's passion and his demanding career pulled him in different directions, and Y/N found herself yearning for a sense of stability that seemed elusive.
One evening, after a particularly difficult conversation filled with misunderstandings and frustration, Kuroo sat Y/N down with a heavy heart. He explained that the long distances and irregular schedules were taking a toll on both of them, and he didn't want their love to suffer as a result.
"It's not that I don't love you," he said, his voice filled with genuine pain. "But I can't ignore the strain this is putting on us. We deserve to be happy, and right now, I don't think we can find that happiness together."
Y/N felt her heart shatter into pieces as she listened to his words. She had hoped against hope that they could work through their challenges, but Kuroo's honesty laid bare the reality of their situation.
The air between them felt heavy with unspoken emotions as they sat facing each other, their hands intertwined one last time.
"I never wanted this to end," Y/N whispered, her voice trembling with raw vulnerability. "I thought we could overcome anything together."
Kuroo looked into her tear-filled eyes, his heart aching at the pain he was causing. "I know, Y/N," he replied softly, his voice laced with regret. "But it's been so hard, and I don't want to keep hurting you or myself."
Tears streamed down Y/N's cheeks as she fought to find the right words. "Can't we at least try to work through this? We've faced challenges before, and we've always come out stronger."
Kuroo's gaze softened, and he gently cupped her face in his hands. "I wish it were that simple," he said, his voice laced with sorrow. "But we both know that the demands of our jobs aren't going to change anytime soon. It's not fair to ask you to wait for me or to put yourself through this uncertainty."
"But I love you," Y/N whispered, her voice breaking. "Isn't that enough to make it work?"
Kuroo's eyes glistened with tears he refused to shed. "Love is a powerful thing, Y/N," he said, his voice tender. "But it's not always enough. We also need stability, trust, and a sense of being there for each other, and right now, I can't give you those things."
Y/N's heart ached at his words, but she knew he was right. Their love was strong, but it couldn't erase the challenges they faced or the doubts that had crept into their minds.
"I don't want to hold you back," she whispered, her voice barely audible. "If this is what you need to find happiness, then I won't stand in your way."
In tears, she nodded, understanding that they were both grappling with the difficult decision that lay ahead. With a heavy heart, they embraced one last time, cherishing the memories they had created together.
And just like that, their whirlwind romance came to an end. Y/N watched Kuroo walk away, knowing that they had shared something beautiful, but that life had chosen a different path for them.
In the following days, Y/N tried to focus on her work, but Kuroo's absence was a constant ache in her heart. She couldn't shake the memories of their time together, and every sight of a volleyball match reminded her of him. The pain was unbearable, and she felt like a mere rough draft in his life. Like an artist scrapping his work, she imagined crumpling herself up and throwing herself away, but she couldn't erase the memories they shared. Every word, every touch, and every smile were etched in her soul.
The aftermath of the break-up was a tumultuous time for Y/N. As days turned into weeks, she found herself trying to navigate the emotional rollercoaster that came with the end of a meaningful relationship. Waves of sadness, anger, and longing crashed over her, leaving her feeling vulnerable and lost.
At first, Y/N tried to distract herself, throwing herself into work and spending time with friends. But no matter how much she tried to keep busy, thoughts of Kuroo and their time together would creep into her mind, pulling at her heartstrings.
The plaid scarf, the one she had left at his house, became a constant reminder of the love they had shared and the pain of their parting. There were moments when she wanted to reach out to him, to hear his voice and find solace in his presence, but she knew that it was not the right path forward.
It had been a year since Y/N and Kuroo had parted ways, and the pain of their breakup had gradually eased, leaving behind a tapestry of cherished memories.
It was a cold winter evening, and Y/N found herself feeling overwhelmed with the pressures of her job and the uncertainties of her personal life. Seeking solace, she decided to clear her mind by attending a volleyball game at a local stadium.
As she settled into her seat, her gaze was momentarily fixated on a guy in the distance. He was wearing a plaid scarf, one that looked oddly familiar. Her heart skipped a beat, and a sense of nostalgia washed over her as memories of the past flooded her mind.
Her friend, noticing her distraction, nudged her with a playful grin. "Hey, where did your mind wander off to?" he asked, a hint of curiosity in their voice.
Y/N shook her head, trying to shake off the sudden surge of emotions. "Oh, it's nothing," she replied with a small smile, not wanting to delve into the memories just yet.
But her friend, being perceptive, raised an eyebrow. "Are you sure?" he prodded gently. "You seemed lost in thought for a moment there."
Taking a deep breath, Y/N decided to share her feelings. "It's just... that guy over there," she said, nodding toward the guy with the plaid scarf. "He looks like someone I used to know."
Her friend gave her a sympathetic look, understanding the complexity of her emotions. "An old flame?" they asked softly.
Y/N nodded, feeling a mix of nostalgia and uncertainty. "Yeah, he is," she admitted. "We had something special once, but life took us in different directions."
As the volleyball match continued, Y/N couldn't help but steal glances at the guy with the plaid scarf. Memories of their time together flashed before her eyes - the laughter, the inside jokes, and the moments of shared happiness.
Her heart fluttered as she recognized Kuroo, standing with his characteristic charisma and magnetic presence. He looked as charming as she remembered, and her mind couldn't help but recall the memories they had once shared.
As Y/N watched Kuroo from a distance, she couldn't help but be captivated by his natural charisma and charm. It was as if he possessed an invisible magnetism that drew people in, effortlessly making them feel at ease in his presence. Even from afar, she could see how he lit up the room with his smile and how people gravitated towards him like moths to a flame.
Y/N remembered how his laughter had once been her favorite sound, a melody that brought comfort and happiness to her heart. It reminded her of the moments they had shared, the jokes they had exchanged, and the memories they had created together.
As he interacted with others, his playful banter and easygoing nature endeared him to everyone around him. He had a way of making people feel special, as if they were the only ones in the room. Y/N couldn't help but feel a pang of nostalgia, remembering how she had once been the recipient of his charming attention.
She watched as he engaged with the team members, offering words of encouragement and support. His passion for volleyball was evident in every gesture, and Y/N couldn't help but admire his dedication and drive. It was one of the things that had initially drawn her to him - his determination and enthusiasm for the sport they both loved.
Seeing him so comfortable and confident in his element made her heart swell with both admiration and a touch of longing. She missed the connection they had shared, the way he had made her feel alive and understood. The memories of their passionate romance flooded back, and for a moment, it was as if time had folded upon itself.
But she knew that the distance between them was not just physical; it was the emotional chasm that had grown between their paths. Y/N had learned to cherish the memories they had shared, but she also knew that sometimes love, no matter how intense, couldn't overcome the challenges they faced.
As she continued to watch Kuroo, she realized that the charisma and charm she had once fallen for were still very much a part of him.
What she felt could only be described like the last page of a book you were so engrossed in; you turn it, and it's over. Just like that. No grand finale, no dramatic exit, just a silent, haunting conclusion.
And yet, what lingers are the what ifs. Those two simple words hold so much power, so much weight. What if she had said this instead of that? What if she had fought harder? What if she had been more patient, more understanding? What if they had taken a different path, a different direction? What if they had stayed together?
The what ifs seem to taunt her, playing like a broken record in our minds. They're relentless, gnawing at our hearts like a persistent ache. Revisiting the memories, the laughter, the shared dreams, and the promises that were once so tenderly exchanged. And in those moments of reflection, the what ifs become more vivid, more tantalizing, and more painful.
As Y/N turned away, her heart heavy with the weight of memories and unspoken emotions, she couldn't help but whisper to herself, "I remember it all too well." It was a love that had left an indelible mark on her soul, a love that she would always carry with her, despite the pain it had brought. And as she walked away from the sight of Kuroo, she knew that some loves were meant to leave a lasting ache, a bittersweet reminder of what once was, and what could never be again.
|| ➼ hq boys meeting you after a long time of your breakup
characters: kuroo, kita, & akaashi
warning: swearing, she/her notiably in kita's and possibly kuroo's(?), kuroo's is angst and cheating !!, kinda long
a/n: i couldn't help but make one angsty! but i hope you enjoy, they're a bit lengthy
kuroo
nerves flooded your veins as you noticed a familiar pudding-head standing against the wall. drink in hand, you nervously walk towards him, cautiously looking around for his partner in crime. while you were very excited to see all your former classmates at this high school reunion, you knew you had a couple people to face. he smiled warmly at you, nodding his head at your presence.
"hey kenma- how are you?"
"glad to see you y/n, i'm doing pretty alright."
"i heard your business took off! i've been meaning to reach out but..."
you trailed off slightly before searching the floor again for someone in particular.
you apologetically smiled at him.
"i'm sorry he did that- i don't really know what got into him back then."
"i'm sorry he did that- i don't really know what got into him back then."
you almost flinched at the memory, the repressed emotions were attempting to arise again.
"it's okay, you didn't know-"
"kenma! yaku's looking for... oh."
you froze, eyes widening. kuroo stood right next to the two of you, arm draped on kenma's shoulder. his eyes had also gone large, not expecting you.
"sorry y/n, yaku needs me but it was really nice seeing you again. please reach out you have my number."
kenma reached out his hand to squeeze your arm in sympathy before darting off, leaving you alone with your ex. kuroo straightened himself out before clearing his throat.
"so uh... how have you been?"
"fine."
the silence grew, tension getting suffocating. you swirled the contents of your drink, suddenly interested in how the ice melted. you debated taking off but your gut told you to not move.
"hey.. i'm sorry about what happened. it was a dumb mistake and i really didn't mean to hurt you about that."
you didn't know what to say. at this point, making eye contact with him was hell.
"tetsu! here's your drink!"
your eyes snapped up. right before you stood a familiar figure.
unlocking the front door, you sighed in relief. you were lucky enough to get off early from work and a warm calming bath was just calling your name.
unfortunately for you, the world had other plans.
sitting on the couch was YOUR boyfriend with his lips locked with another woman.
all you could remember was vicous sobs and overwhelming anger, ending in a broken promise.
that same woman was standing in front of you, arms entangled with kuroo's. your grip on the glass tightened.
"you have some nerve kuroo testuro. how could you cheat on me like a piece of scum and then bring her where you knew i would be? AND THEN have the audacity to try and apologize like it was solved? you know what, fuck you."
you spat out the words before running off, eyes blurred with tears. you regret coming.
akaashi
the aroma of coffee wafted into your nose, bringing a sense of warmth and rejuvenation. in a way your whole being relaxed at the sight and smell of the little coffee shop. it had easily become one of your favorite spots to spend a couple hours in a couple days a week to catch up on work or to enjoy a drink.
taking your usual spot along the edges of the cafe, you got right to work. your fingers flew at the keyboard; you had a very important writing piece to submit soon. in all of your focus, you hadn't noticed a presence in front of you.
"y/n?"
you almost jumped back in surprise, having to register who had just called your name. you hand flew to your mouth in surprise.
"keij- sorry, akaashi? that was habit."
he only laughs warmly. the last time you had seen him was years ago but you noticed his features grew out a bit more. he had been wearing a white sweater with a trench coat, messenger bag slung on his shoulder.
"it's okay, you can call me keiji. sorry if i shocked you. i wasn't even sure if it was you at first if i'm honest. i didn't know you were around here."
you could only sheepishly smile before realizing he was still standing.
"did you want to sit? i can move these papers."
he gratefully took the seat across from you before taking out his own laptop.
"have you been well? it's been a while since we last talk."
"yea.. yea! actually i'm working at that place i interned my junior year and i have an apartment nearby."
as the two of you caught up, you couldn't help the smile on your face. the sense of familiarity was all too welcoming. for a split second, you almost regretted breaking up years ago before remembering the tough situation.
as university students, balancing the study life and love life had gotten too stressful and led to too many misunderstandings and miscommunications. it wasn't too long before the two of you had amicably broken it off.
"sorry to cut this short y/n but i have to meet some friends at dinner tonight- i'd love to do this again though."
"yea, of course! uhm i'm kinda a regular here, you'll probably catch me here on tuesdays, thursdays, and sundays."
"alright."
after he had left, you were once again mildly shocked that he had paid for your drink.
it soon became routine. the two of you would take some spot on the edge of the cafe, immersed in both conversation and your work. it was all too calming- and you weren't sure if it was just the cafe atmosphere.
as he spoke, your heart ached at the thought of how much time you had lost with akaashi after all these years. he was still gentle and kind, adjusting your cup to make sure it wouldn't spill or taking his napkin to wipe off the crumbs from your pastry off the table.
"excuse me, sorry to interrupt but i just wanted to hand you guys a couple pastries! on the house of course."
the two of you looked up to the barista, each piecing in your graditude.
"it's no problem, you've both been regulars and i think you and your boyfriend are adorable!"
you grew warm, almost choking on your drink. akaashi only smiled gracefully, as he does.
"sorry we're- uhm"
"i'm so sorry! i just thought- because you guys looked cozy."
"no it's okay! please, we did date but we're exes."
as the barista apologetically walked away, you couldn't help but giggle.
"that was sweet."
akaashi only nodded, seemingly in his thought. his index finger swirled around his saucer.
"y/n? do you remember what i told you when we broke up?"
you thought carefully before shaking your head. it had been too long.
"i would date you again and again, whether it be in another life or in a million if the time was right. i know that it isn't a next life but in this life, can we try again?"
you almost want to explode at the statement, turning even more embarassed than you already were.
"y-yes! of course, i would want nothing more."
he grinned before reaching over to take your hand in his.
"i'm so lucky that you were here that day."
kita
a sweet melody tangled in the sounds of excited chatter. a sense of happiness and bubbly feelings flowed through the air. it was your best friend's wedding, and everything was going absolutely perfect. not a cloud of rain in sight, everyone was dressed glamorously, and not a bad mood in sight. you were graced as the maid of honor, happily obliging to take the spot besides your best friend.
well that was until you had to walk down the aisle with the best man. aka your EX who she had failed to mention was the best man.
"are you kidding me?!"
"pleaaaaseee don't kill me- i knew you wouldn't say yes if you knew who it was!"
you could only rubbed your temples, suddenly tensing from the stress. the bride stood in front of you, almost on her knees begging with her hands pressed together. however, you knew you would have to give in, it's her big day.
"fine. you owe me big time."
"are you sure? i could be doing you a large favor here."
"FAVOR!? yea because putting me with my ex-boyfriend to walk down the aisle is a favor."
"hey- you told me yourself that you would go back to dating him in a heartbeat."
"OKAY but there's a lot to unpack there, we both know why it went wrong."
you both flinched at the memory, suddenly reminded of the vast differences you had been experiencing that had led to the decently messy breakup. neither of you had done anything wrong, your lives had just been going in different directions.
"okay well- y/n get ready, it's time."
"fuck you, how could you tell me that milliseconds before doing it!"
you didn't have enough time to both curse her out and school your features. instead, you had met eyes with kita shinsuke, scowling.
"lovely to see you again, y/n."
"kita."
you politely nodded your head, erasing the scowl.
"sorry, but soon-to-be mrs. miya didn't tell me."
"mmm understandably so, you would've dropped out."
he offered his arm for you to slip your hand through while you rolled your eyes. you could only mutter to yourself.
"why didn't i think atsumu's best man wasn't going to be kita."
suddenly, a softer rendition of the bridal march erupted from the quartet, signaling the other bridal party couples to walk. you adopted a smile on your face, prepping to face everyone.
foot in front of the other, you cautiously made your way down the aisle. you thought you had been in clear, but a small piece chipped away from the pavement thought otherwise.
"careful."
kita steadied you easily, his arm quickly moving to hold your waist. your ears burned as you try not to swat at him in front of the crowd.
"thanks."
parting ways at the end of the aisle, you missed the way kita's eyes lingered on you.
luck was not on your side today. or rather, your best friend made it her mission to make you suffer. seated besides kita at the bridal party table, you tried to focus your attention on the other bridesmaids.
you felt a small tap on your shoulder, causing you to turn your attention to turn. a tall blonde stood behind your seat, offering his hand out.
"sorry to interrupt, i noticed you across the hall. i thought you were really pretty and if you would like to dance."
before you could even reply, another hand grabbed yours.
"sorry but they were going to dance with me."
kita got up, taking you with him towards the dance floor.
"shin! why did you do that?"
you were now swaying to the beat, arms on his shoulders, his hands on your waist.
"we both know blondes aren't your type anyway."
as the two of you danced, one song after the other without noticing, you felt the background fade away. everything was so light and easy-going. without even thinking, you move your forehead closer to lean against his. in a low voice, you bring your eyes up to his.
"you know... i kind of miss this- us."
"i can only think the same thing. how about i take you on a proper date? maybe not our first but... a new first date?"
"perfect."
his eyes glimmered, moving back slightly to place a soft kiss on your forehead.
Summary ❥ Kuroo had been dating the team’s manager, aka you, for quite some time now…or so what Kenma, Yaku, and the whole volleyball club members, thought. With the truth of your relationship status out, will Yaku finally be able to act on his feelings? Or will Kuroo finally decide to break it to you that what he’s been telling you were no jokes?
Pairing ❥ Yaku Morisuke x F!Reader x Kuroo Tetsurou
Genre ❥ SMAU, Fluff, Nekoma Manager! reader, tinsy bit of angst, best friends to lovers, love triangle, divided routes
Warning ❥ Swearing, keyboard smashing, questioning your feelings, more specified content warning will be given at the start of certain chapters, maybe a bit ooc at some parts-, flirting platonically between friends
Warnings: work relationships situationships, mentions of anxiety, overthinking, mentions of alcohol, falling too quickly, lack of communication, “it’s not cheating if we’re not together”, breakup?, pls don’t make me spoil the end…
Summary: Kuroo Tetsurou knew, from the second he first laid eyes on you. He knew that he loved you. That he could spend forever loving you. And that was terrifying.
My entry for @taintedsorrcw ‘s Somnum Exterri collab - Find the Masterlist Here!
⟢ summary: when you’re young and in love, it’s easy to forget that life can be far crueler than it should be at 18. but it’s also easy to forget that life can work in wonderful ways too. sometimes, you just have to wait a little for it.
⟢ a/n: a slightly edited repost of a fic I wrote a couple of years ago :3
The last moment you spent with Kuroo was unremarkable.
“Swap.”
“But I like this one.”
“You know the rules.” With a resigned sigh you hand him your can of lychee soda, gingerly taking his bottle of aloe vera juice. Eyeing the cloudy, slightly greenish liquid, you grimace before you reluctantly raise it to your lips. You take a sip and wrinkle your nose in disgust.
“I can’t believe you actually like this shit.”
“Don’t be dramatic, you’ve just got childish taste buds. Besides, it’s good for you”
“I do not!” you scoff, hitting his shoulder lightly.
“Uh-huh. And this is coming from the girl who drinks artificially flavoured sugary juice.”
“Give it back then if you don’t like it,” you huff, making a grab for it.
“No.” He holds the can out of reach of your outstretched hand, which is not much of a feat considering how long his arms are. “It’s mine now.”
“But you don’t even like it!” you whine.
“Don’t care,” he shrugs, taking a sip.
“Even if all your teeth fall out from the sugar, old man?” You raise an eyebrow challengingly.
“I’ll get dentures,” he grins, throwing you a teasing wink. “I’m sure I can make the fake teeth work. Anything’s possible when you look like this.”
“Oh, shut up will you.” You scowl at him, slumping back down on his bed beside him and sipping at the remainder of his drink in annoyance, pushing down the strong urge to spit it at him. It would be funny, and maybe start a gross little war between you, but you’re not really in the mood for that right now.
Silence falls between you again, an obnoxiously frequent visitor on this clear, starry night. Your head falls on Kuroo’s shoulder just as his arm finds your waist and tucks you closer into his side, fingers tracing shapes over your hip. A few months ago, he would be laughing nervously and trying his hardest to play it cool, all while a hot blush lit up his cheekbones and ears. There’s very few traces of that shy boy left. You miss him a little.
“Feels weird now that we’ve graduated,” you muse. “It’s all downhill from here.”
“Don’t be such a pessimist,” he scolds lightly. “We’ve got our whole lives ahead of us!”
“Here we go.”
You groan as he starts his rant about life and things that are too abstract and far away into the future for you to think about. Turning your head, you watch him excitedly talk about possibilities and plans and your heart weighs down in your chest.
This will be the last time.
“Tetsu,” you interrupt quietly.
“Yeah?”
“I want you to forget me after I’ve left.” You can feel how Kuroo tenses all of a sudden, the lines of his body stilling as his grip on you tightens protectively. Defiantly.
“Woah, woah, woah- why would I do that?” he asks worriedly. You sigh heavily, sitting up so that you can look at him. He knows why. You’ve had this conversation before, several times in fact.
“To make it easier. For both of us. We’ve talked about this before, and I’ve been thinking that it would be best.” you tell him gently, even though every cell in your body tells you not to.
“But I don’t want to forget you,” he says stubbornly. “And who exactly is this easier for? Don’t you even want to try making this work long distance? I think we can do it.”
“I don’t want to end up resenting you.” Kuroo’s brows pinch together. “What if I neglect you, or you neglect me? What then? What if we start hating each other?”
“You won’t! We’ll call and text everyday, it’ll be like you never left! That’s what technology is for, sweetheart.”
“But we’ll only manage to squeeze in a couple of hours each day at best because of the timezone differences and even then we might not manage that! You know it doesn’t make sense,” you point out. Your tone softens as you take his hand in yours, running your thumb soothingly over his knuckles. “You’re usually so logical, Tetsu, this isn’t like you.”
Kuroo sighs, tugging you in to rest against his chest. It’s so natural now, so effortless, how you fall into each other’s embrace. Like being there was written for you from the start.
“Not always. Love isn’t logical y’know. You taught me that,” he murmurs into your hair. “Love tells me that I should keep you here, safe in my arms, not let you go halfway across the world for university.”
“Tetsu, you know-“
“I know, I know. Believe me, I know. I’d never hold you back, no matter what. But you can’t ask me to be logical when every cell in my body refuses to let you go. You can’t ask me to forget you because I would never be able to. How could I ever forget someone I love?”
You cling to him more tightly, cursing every divine power that has decided to wedge itself between you. Why the fuck has life led you in this direction? It’s cruel. Unfair.
“Don’t be so dramatic,” you mumble.
“I’m not. And despite what you say, I know you won’t forget me either. Doing this now, or before you leave, or not at all, is going to hurt us at some point.”
“Well, what do you suggest?”
You sit up to look at him again, meeting melancholic eyes that mirror your own turmoil. Tenderly, he brushes your hair back, long fingers lingering on your cheek.
“You might be right about the long distance thing not working,” he admits quietly. “I don’t want to give up on us but… I guess it makes sense to. We’re young, we’ll be busy - how many high school couples even last a long distance?”
“Not many, I don’t think.”
“Right. Then, for tonight, I want you to pretend with me. Let’s pretend that you’re not leaving me next week, and that we’ll see each other tomorrow, and the day after, and every day after that.”
“Will that help?” you ask sadly. He smiles ruefully and shakes his head, his dark hair bouncing with the action.
“No. But I don’t wanna be sad about you going just yet.”
And you do just that. You talk and laugh, share stories and snacks, holding onto each other all the while through kisses and giggles. It’s pure bliss, this little bubble you’ve blown around yourselves in Kuroo’s bedroom.
But it’s sullied by the ticking of the clock on his wall that you can’t help but repeatedly glance at. And as thatclock nears midnight and you know it’s time to leave, your heart begins to ache desperately.
His hands rest on your hips as you stand before his closed door. When your lips meet, it’s not like your usual goodbye kisses, which are sweet and chaste. This kiss quickly becomes a deep, needy, yearning thing that you can’t pull yourself out of. You drown in the sensation of his slightly chapped lips, get lost in the taste of his still-shy tongue, melt right into the contours of his body.
You don’t even realise the two of you are crying until you pull away. You’re breathless and sobbing a little, clinging to him so tightly you’re sure it hurts him, but it doesn’t matter.
Leaving hurts more.
“I don’t wanna go,” you whisper. “I wanna stay with you.” He kisses your tears away, resting his forehead against yours and squeezing your frame.
“I’m not dying or anything, why are you crying?” he teases wetly.
“You’re crying too, dumbass.”
“So what if I am?” he sniffles, pressing tender kisses to your forehead. “My pretty girl’s leaving me forever.”
“I don’t want to, Tetsu.”
“I know, but you’ll be okay, baby. We’ll be okay,” he says, shushing you gently, but neither of you believe it for a second.
And why would you?
You’re 18. Young and stupid. Freshly graduated with the world at your feet and the whole of adulthood stretching on before you, a winding path that you can’t fully see.
And yet, this is your world, right here in your arms.
All this time, he has been by your side, naturally, but he won’t be following you into the great unknown, as much as he wishes he could. He’s seeing you off on your journey now, parting ways with you as he embarks on his own, in a different direction, even though he wants you to stay with him. He watches you from the front door as you leave, blowing you a kiss and yelling his love after your retreating figure.
This is what it means to grow up.
This is goodbye.
And you both fucking hate it.
It takes a good while to nurse your broken hearts, made more difficult by the fact that you have to adjust to new environments and new people as you heal. But you grieve and you grow and the years pass by in the blink of an eye.
Seven years have passed since that tearful night. Seven years of study, study, study and then work, work, work. You moved back to Japan a year or so after graduating university, homesick from so many years away. You visited during that time of course, but it wasn’t quite the same as living out your daily life in the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
And maybe, just maybe, a small part of you dreamed that you would bump into him. Wishful thinking perhaps, but you couldn’t quite tamp down all of your feelings towards the rooster-haired captain. There’s still a small flame flickering in the depths of your heart just for him and it’s this very flame that keeps you warm on some nights.
You wonder if that same flame burns in his own chest for you.
The convenience store is a welcome reprieve from the summer heat that bears down on you intensely. The sounds of passing cars is muffled as the doors slide shut behind you, leaving only the whir of the air conditioner and the gentle warble of a pop group playing quietly over the radio to accompany you.
You drift towards the back where the fridges are situated, absently inspecting bags of snacks as you pass and touching a box of pocky before changing your mind and continuing on. There’s a blast of cool air when you pull the fridge door open and hold it there with your hip as you scan the selection of beverages on display. There’s one in particular that catches your eye, conjuring a memory forth from the depths of your mind.
With a nostalgic smile, you reach in and grasp the can of lychee soda, only for your hand to bump into one much larger than yours.
“Ah, sorry about that,” says a smooth, deep voice. The sound sends a chill down your spine that has nothing to do with the temperature of the open fridge.
But it can’t be, can it?
Hopeful curiosity lifts your head to look for the owner of the voice, and you have to crane your neck a little just to look up at his face. Dark hair, still messy, but more tamed than it was in his youth - now it looks deliberate. Sharp jaw, elegant nose, and those eyes, warm hazel - almost amber, and strangely feline in shape. He doesn’t look the same but he doesn’t look different either. Just a taller (somehow) more handsome and mature version of his younger self. In a suit no less, only it’s paired with volleyball shoes.
You would probably laugh out loud if your mouth didn’t feel so dry, like you’ve just eaten a fistful of sand as you gape up at him with a mix of shock and wonder.
“I must be dreaming right now,” you whisper to yourself and the man sniggers, still inspecting the can in his hand.
Oh. That’s still the same.
“Are you talking to-“ he falters as his eyes flick to your face. “-me.”
His face mirrors your own and you’re not sure how long you stand there, fridge wide open, until someone mumbles an ‘excuse me’ and shakes you from your respective trances. You wait for them to leave before you dare to look at each other again.
“Tetsu?” It feels a little foreign saying his name again after so long. And yet, the weight of it sits familiar on your tongue, the roll of each syllable feels natural as it passes your lips.
He says your name and you wonder if it tastes the same to him, if it reminds him of home the way that his does for you. “Is that you?”
“Uh, yeah. Hi.” You awkwardly raise a hand in greeting.
“Hi,” he says, sounding as dazed as you feel. “Almost didn’t recognise you. You look… different.”
“So do you. It’s been a while,” you offer lamely. He was never this hard to talk to, but you suppose that time is a thief that is impossible to catch, stealing the ease that you built your relationship on.
“Yeah. It has.”
“Seven years,” you murmur with a touch of melancholy.
“Where did the time go?”
You both fall silent, there in the snack aisle of a convenience store in Tokyo, in the middle of summer, wondering what you should say next. Wondering what is appropriate after so much time has passed.
Because you’ve both grown. A lot. Physically, mentally, emotionally. You’re hardly the same people you were seven years ago. It’s stupid of you to even entertain the idea that he could fall in love with you again, but you entertain it all the same.
You’d never admit it aloud, but on some of your loneliest nights, you fantasise about what could happen if you met again. How you’d fall back together so easily, how you’d be so in love, the way that you used to be. Maybe you’d move in together, get a pet together, maybe you’d get married and have a family. Maybe you’d grow old with the only boy you’d ever loved so earnestly, so boundlessly, despite being so young.
It’s Kuroo that finally breaks the silence.
“Let’s catch up,” he says, with a crooked grin. “For old times sake.”
You pay for your drinks and head back out into the sun. It’s odd, you think. Tokyo is familiar and Kuroo is familiar, as well as the drink in your hand but it still feels strange to you. You’re in a different part of the city because of your new job and the brand of soda you like has changed their recipe.
And then there’s Kuroo.
His gait is, regrettably, longer than it used to be, as is the height at which you stand next to him. He sounds different, dresses different, he even smells different. Back then, he used to smell like far too much body spray and his grandma's honeysuckle detergent. Now? The scent coming off him is expensive and thoroughly masculine - you might even dare to say it’s incredibly sexy.
You cast him a sideways glance, belatedly noticing the can that he sips at. It’s identical to yours and you can’t help but scoff aloud.
“I thought you said that stuff was full of sugar?” Kuroo turns to look at you curiously as you both slow to a stop and point at him accusingly. “Remember? You used to nag me for drinking it.” Your lips push out in a pout at the memory of his lecture, and he laughs.
The sound transports you back to high school, to a time where you’re still boyfriend and girlfriend, two peas in a pod, no longer clad in office wear but in your school uniforms. Kuroo’s hair is horrendous, tangled hopelessly by the wind that blows through it. You’re holding hands and bickering, but still laughing. Always laughing.
“That’s cos you used to drink it every day,” he says, the corner of his mouth lifting in that goddamn smirk. “And it’s addictive.”
“Oh is that right? Well, I did tell you as much back then. How the tables have turned!” you proclaim triumphantly. He rolls his eyes, amused by your smug expression.
“I’m not addicted to it,” he says, quirking his brow challengingly. “I still don’t like it.”
“Oh really? Then why did you get it?” You narrow your eyes at him as he shakes his head, smile softening.
“It’s a secret,” he says, tapping his nose with a wink before he continues to walk. Your eyes narrow in a glare as you jog after him and attempt to fall back in step with him.
“Oi, slow down! Long legged bastard,” you grumble under your breath.
“What did you just call me?” he asks quietly. You freeze, clapping a hand over your mouth as realisation dawns on you. You can’t joke with him like that anymore. Not after you put millions of miles between you. What boundaries lie there now?
“I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean-” He cackles at the look on your face, doubling over right there in the middle of the street. You fix him with a deadpan look, arms folded over your chest, thoroughly unimpressed.
“I’m kidding, relax! God, you should see your face, baby!”
This time, you both freeze, and the illusion shatters. A soft pink stains his cheeks as his ears and brain catch up to his tongue and heart. 25, and he’s still not immune to blushing. 25, and it still makes him look hopelessly sweet. 25, and it still makes your heart swell.
“I didn’t- shit, I’m so sorry! It just slipped out,” he yelps, panic widening his eyes. You’re not quite sure what to say to him. The pet name echoes in your ears and thunders in your chest, reawakening butterflies with Kuroo’s name scrawled across the delicate wings. Your own cheeks feel warm.
“Easy mistake to make,” you say, biting back a shy smile. “Don’t worry about it. Let’s call it even.” He clears his throat nervously and sips at his drink to give himself something to do, your own fingers fiddling with the carrier bag in your hand until he finally breaks the stifling silence.
“I er, I know a pretty good ice cream place about 5 minutes away from here. We can catch up there?”
“Sounds good.”
Your walk resumes and you’re both quiet again, but this time, it’s comfortable. The little bell above the door chimes and he follows in behind you to stand at the counter, poring over the selection behind the glass.
Kuroo has brought you to a quaint little spot, tucked away between an electronics shop and a bakery. Inside, it’s cool and vibrant, the pastel palette running through the airy space brightening your mood a little. It doesn’t take either of you long to make your choices, taking your cones and finding a little booth in the back to sit at.
Perhaps it’s a little odd for two adults in their mid-twenties to be sitting in an ice cream parlour, nibbling at ice cream cones and searching for something to say that sounds half-way cool and nonchalant. But Kuroo did say this was for the sake of old times, and what better way to plunge you into the past than a quiet booth and some ice cream.
“So…” you start, but you don’t know how to finish.
“So…” he copies, drawing the word out. You raise an eyebrow at him, licking at your ice cream and he mirrors you, holding the expression before you both snort and burst into laughter.
“Fucking hell, stop making it weird!” you giggle.
“I’m not!”
“You’re making that face!”
“Speak for yourself! Look, I just didn’t expect to run into you of all people on my way home. I’m still processing it,” he says with a grin.
“Neither did I!” His eyes soften as he smiles, crinkling at the corners.
“So how have you been?”
And just like that, you feel right at home again. You talk and laugh, smile brighter and bigger than you have in years. The cones have long since been polished off and you’re still occupying the booth, any concept of time tossed out the window. It’s not long before your catch-up of the present bleeds into reminiscing on the past.
“And then Bokuto slipped and fell right into you!”
“I remember that, I would’ve fallen flat on my face if you hadn’t caught me. You never did let that go, I swear, you gloated about it for ages,” you complain, pouting in annoyance.
“You have to admit that line was pretty smooth!” He puffs his chest out a little with pride and you roll your eyes.
You mock his deep timbre. “‘Are you falling for me?’”
“It was cool!”
“It was cheesy!” you both laugh at the memory, letting the feeling of nostalgia linger over you like a warm blanket just a little while longer.
“We had some good times together,” he hums and you nod, smiling wistfully at the memories you’ve been submerging yourselves in.
“We did.”
“I miss those days.”
“Me too.”
“No, I mean when we were together. I really loved you,” he says quietly, warm eyes burning with sincerity.
“I did too.” You heart thuds heavily in your chest at the implications in his gaze but you force yourself to rein it in and squash the hope that flutters there. “But we were so young. Immature. Naive.”
“So?” He almost sounds offended. “Does that mean it didn’t count or something?”
“No, I’m not saying that.” You shake your head and sigh. “I’m just saying, I’m sure you’ve dated other people since then and fallen in love again. Real love, not the silly delusions of a teen.”
“Our love was real.”
Your breath hitches then at the fire in his eyes, a fire that you recognise, the same as the one that burns quietly in the depths of your heart. You try to shift his attention.
“Aren’t you dating anyone right now?” you ask hesitantly, shifting uncomfortably in your seat.
“No,” he says fiercely, but then he cools a bit and leans back in his seat. “No. I’m not. I’ve tried, but… Nothing ever stuck. How about you?”
“I tried too,” you murmur. “But I couldn’t love them in the right way, I guess.”
Not the way I loved you.
The air between you becomes heavy with words unsaid crowding the tips of your tongues all at once, piling against your teeth and begging to break free. Kuroo calls your name, and your belly flutters in the way that it used to.
He calls out to you again and it’s so soft, so Kuroo, that your heart aches. You watch him carefully, waiting for him to keep speaking with bated breath. “Can I tell you a secret?”
“Yeah.”
He sucks in a shaky breath and adds another secret to the pile housed deep in your heart, still kept firmly under lock and key.
“I drink them when I miss you.”
You pause, brow furrowing in confusion.
“Drink what?”
Kuroo’s expression turns exasperated as he runs a hand through his neater-than-it-used-to-be hair. The blush from before returns, tinging his ears red with embarrassment.
“The lychee soda.”
Oh.
Oh.
“So… today?”
He nods sheepishly, covering his face with his hand.
“How was I supposed to know I’d bump into you?” he mumbles again. You say nothing, marvelling at the man before you instead. Still as sweet as the day you met him. Years have passed, and so many things have changed. And yet, somehow, Kuroo remembers you the way that you remember him.
No, not remember, he misses you the way that you miss him, still finding comfort in the warmth of that flame, just like you. Still finding solace in bubbles and sugar.
“Tetsu-”
“Weird right?” he chuckles humourlessly and you shake your head no.
“No, it’s not weird. Not really,” you say, fiddling with the napkin in front of you. “You did say you wouldn’t forget me.”
“True,” he hums.
“And if it makes you feel any better, I didn’t forget you either.”
“You didn’t?” A warm flush creeps up your own cheeks this time as you nod and give in a little.
“I missed you, Tetsu. I know it’s been such a long time, and holding onto hope that I’d see you again is probably really fucking stupid, not to mention unhealthy, but-“
“I couldn’t help it,” you say simultaneously.
Slowly, identical giddy grins spread over your faces and you find yourselves giggling like teenagers all over again.
“Let me take you out tomorrow,” Kuroo says suddenly with that lopsided grin that you fell in love with all those years ago.
“On a date?”
“If you want it to be. Or even just as friends. But seeing you again, it’s just-“ you halt him with a raised hand, a teasing grin playing at your lips as your head cocks to the side.
“Tell me about it on our date, yeah?”
And he does.
The date with Kuroo is truly magical. He’s a picture perfect gentleman, coming to pick you up with a bouquet of fresh, red roses in hand and a happy grin on his face. It seems that both of you have dressed to impress, Kuroo dressed neatly in a crisp white shirt and charcoal trousers whilst you spent hours scouring your wardrobe for the perfect dress. It’s honestly a little ridiculous when you think back on it since you knew each other so well already, so why would you need to impress each other?
But that was then, and this now.
There seems to be a goal in Kuroo’s mind as he helps you out of his shiny black Jaguar, leading you into a fancy looking restaurant. It’s clear he’s spared no expenses for the occasion. You eat and drink and laugh, allowing yourselves to get pulled back together again, like magnets. The flames in your hearts burn brighter, more fiercely with each passing moment, until you can feel the warmth spread throughout your bodies, lapping gently through your veins.
As the night draws to a close and he drives you home, full, content and sleepy, you feel more whole than you’ve felt in the entirety of your adult life. You glance to the side, taking in his beautiful profile, that exquisite jawline and the curve of his lips that you want to feel on yours again.
You wonder if they taste the same as they did back in high school. If they still taste like the gum he used to chew or those ghastly health drinks he was obsessed with. Sometimes, he’d chase you around campus right after eating mackerel for lunch, threatening to kiss you with the strong flavour of fish still lingering in his mouth. Are his lips still a little chapped? Does he still grin into his kisses as his fingers rest on your cheek? Make that sweet little humming noise in the back of his throat that sounds like laughter? Does he still wear a goofy smile when he pulls away?
All thoughts of kissing him are shaken from your mind as he kills the engine and walks you all the way to the front door of your apartment. You unlock the door and turn to say goodbye, a little sad that the night has to end. Kuroo rests his arm against the door frame above his head, car keys dangling from his hand and a lazy smile sitting comfortably on his handsome features.
“I had a lot of fun tonight,” he says.
“Me too.”
“I guess I’ll see you soon?”
Those words should be followed closely with a goodbye, but Kuroo lingers, as does his gaze, flicking from your eyes to your lips and back again.
“Kiss me if I’m wrong,” he says after a beat of silence. “But you kissed me on our first ever date, didn’t you?” You hum thoughtfully, an impish grin rounding your cheeks.
“No, actually I didn't. It was the second date and it was on the cheek cos you looked like you were ready to pass out when I got close to your lips.”
“I did not!” he whines indignantly.
“Did too,” you shrug.
“That’s bullshit,” he mumbles. “Anyway, I’m wrong so now you have to kiss me.”
“Real smooth, Tetsuro.”
“I know, now if you’ll let me, I want to overwrite that first kiss.”
“How? We’ve kissed a million times before,” you argue.
“That was then, this is now. We’re restarting this whole thing,” he insists.
“We are?” You raise an eyebrow in question and he simply nods, cocksure and firm.
“We are.”
“Says who?”
“Me.” Kuroo takes a step forward and suddenly there’s very little space between you. “So? Will you let me have a redo?” he murmurs.
“You can try. The first time was pretty sweet. It’d be pretty hard to top it.”
“Challenge accepted, baby.”
With that, his hands slip around your waist and pull you flush against his firm body. When his lips slant down over yours, you still have to reach up to meet him, eyes fluttering shut as your lips meet after seven years apart.
He is all you remember and so much more, so much better than before, as if that were even possible. You learn that he tastes sweet like dessert, but he still tastes like your Tetsu. He grins against your lips as you press closer and you praise whoever the fuck convinced him to regularly use chapstick because his lips are so soft and pliant against yours. His kisses are dizzyingly good, addictive and sensual, his fingers resting against the back of your neck whilst his palm sits along the curve of it. You sigh into his mouth, one of relief, because you’re finally home.
Where you belong.
As fate intended.
When Kuroo pulls away, there’s a sparkle in his eyes and he smiles so sweetly you think that sugar will never taste the same again. He brushes a stray lock of your hair back, letting his thumb linger over the warm apple of your cheek.
“Can I say something?”
“Yeah.”
“I have to warn you, it’s a little unconventional for a rebooted first date,” he chuckles.
Then, his expression becomes a little more serious. “But I really, really fucking love you and I don’t think I ever stopped.” Your heart swells and spills over as his grip on your waist tightens.
“I love you too,” you say, and you really can’t resist so you tug him back towards your lips and kiss him again.
synopsis: You’re kinda normal. About to start your university life, having plans with your boyfriend, supporting friends and a sometimes annoying brother. Also some major issues but who doesn’t? You think of yourself as nothing special, different but not more worthy. After escaping the nightmare of your childhood you only have two goal: Find your place in life and make as many memories as possible.
genre: university!au, smau, drama, angst, fluff, crack and more. This will be a mix of smau and written parts.
pairings:
part 1: kuroo x fem reader x atsumu
part 2: secret x fem reader x secret
These are the main pairings. It doesn’t mean there couldn’t be anything happen besides them.
warnings: This story mentions parts of mental sickness, insomnia, vitiligo, bullying, sexual content (but no smut), toxic relationships and friendships, cheating and more.
status: ongoing
started 29.05.2021
taglist: open
a/n: This is my first story and I’ll se how things going to work. Thanks for coming over and accompany me here. The story is divided into two parts. They will go along the events in the manga but with much more time in between. Some major things will be changed but you’ll see. Also I’ll work with some songs and music because y/n loves to sing and dance. So the story was first inspired by the Song “This Town” by Niall Horan (Listen here)
jot's notes 🤍: alisa haiba supremacy. nekoma loving hours. got this idea from a tiktok. this turned out longer than i intended so other parts will be posted separately.
y'all let this get to almost 400 notes w me typing peace instead of piece jdhddhhs
the game against nohebi concluded in nekoma's favor. the team wanted to go out to dinner to celebrate their win.
you were sat in between kuroo and kenma, as always. you became an unlikely trio when you moved in next door to kenma's and transferred to nekoma for your first year, now on your second. you had been good friends with both boys, and the entirety of the team after they–mostly kuroo–begged you to take up the challenge of being the vbc manager. however, there were feelings which lingered around a certain tall sly captain which you acknowledged wasn't present in any of the other boys you formed a friendship with. with the way he had been acting around you, you thought the same occurred with him.
the restaurant was filled with hearty laughter and loud conversations which you thoroughly enjoyed. it was refreshing to have some of the boys' siblings, alisa and akane, along instead of it just being you among a crowd of unruly boys.
amidst the chorus of cheers and shouts, yamamoto announced, "you should cheer for us in all our games. it seems like you're our ultimate lucky charm." he rested his elbow on his sibling's head, which akane swatted away. he turned to alisa with a grin, making her giggle.
yaku smacked his teammate's arm lightly, or as lightly as yaku could manage. "you're not slick, tora! but anyway it's true though we could use the moral support," he chimed with an equally charming grin. the crowd erupted in another fit of laughter.
lev, cheeks stuffed and still reaching for a piece of meat with his chopsticks added, "you're both not slick. i don't think either of you is my sister's type anyway." he shrugged, earning the most dramatic looks from the other two. akane giggled in agreement.
fukunaga, being the chaotic neutral that he was, asked in all seriousness, "do you find anyone here attractive? someone your type?"
a panicked look flashed on her pretty features, eyes darted to you and between the two boys on either of your side as you were sat directly across from them.
"kuroo!?" lev choked on his food. alisa tried to dispute the claim but was barely noticed over the chorus of laughs and taunts coming from both lev choking and his prior accusation.
though you were amused with the discourse between you and your friends, you can't help the twisted feeling that bloomed at the pit of your stomach. against your better judgement, you snuck a glance to see kuroo's reaction and you wished you didn't. you missed the similar way kenma eyed you, a knowing smirk barely showing on his expression.
he looked away, covering half his face with his hand which did little to hide the red tint creeping up from his neck up to the tips of his ears.
oh.
maybe you were wrong all this time– the lingering glances at practice, the smirks he would flash you arrogantly whenever he scored an impressive point, the walking you home even though his house was the opposite way, the endless teasing and borderline flirting. had you read it wrong? was he like this with everyone else? you shook your head as if your own thoughts would scatter, telling yourself not to dwell on it too much, at least not until you were somewhere where you could be alone with your thoughts.
the eventful dinner soon came to it's conclusion, you walked beside kenma, falling behind most of the team. kuroo was up ahead, talking with alisa, about what– it didn't take much to put two and two together.
on the train, you opted to sit beside kenma instead of in between them, which was weird for kuroo. kenma indulged you though out of pure mischief. he even let you rest your head against his shoulder, hoping to stir up a reaction from either of you.
"you don't have to walk me home tonight, kuroo. it's been a long day, i could get home just fine by myself," you mumbled, avoiding his gaze. he frowned at your use of his last name, but was also worried by your tone. you did seem tired, and you were, but you were also hurt and you weren't going to admit that out loud. it's not like he owed anything. he wasn't obligated to reciprocate your feelings. but being away from him as much as possible would probably be the best until you were ready to face him again.
reluctantly, he finally agreed after what seemed like an eternity. "fine, but text me as soon as you get home okay?"
and so that's what you did–avoided him until it felt like you were ready to confront him, rather your unresolved feelings for him. except you were never ready, at least not after almost two excruciating weeks of dodging him like the plague until he cornered you in the club room after practice.
"you've been avoiding me," he claimed, voice low as he leaned against the doorway.
you jumped at the sound of his voice from behind. "you scared me!" you breathed, dodging the subject yet again. you busied yourself with putting away the equipment to ease the thumping of your heart, not like it actually worked.
"why have you been avoiding me?" he repeated. he took a single step forward, yet he was one step away from closing in the distance between you two.
"i haven't. i was busy," you reasoned, quickly finishing up and dusting your hands off.
he mirrored each step you took in an at attempt to exit the now all too small and stuffy club room.
"don't lie to me. what did i do? tell me so i can fix it." the seriousness in his tone and the look on his face made your resolve crumble slowly.
"you didn't do anything wrong." it was true.
"then why are you avoiding me?" there was a hint of frustration in his voice which seemed to intensify by the second. he grasped your shoulders softly, only then did you realize how close you had been standing next to each other.
"i just- i can't. i just wanted to make it easier for me," you mumbled, staring at the floor intently to hold your tears back.
"what? make what easier? you're not making any sense, kitten."
goddammit.
"there, that right there!" you shrieked, tears fell freely down your cheeks as you were no longer able to hold yourself together. his eyes widened, heart thumping in his chest. if either of you quieted down for a moment, you'd hear both your hearts clamoring. "y-you can't just go around and call me that so endearingly and say all those vague remarks and do all these stupidly sweet gestures as if they don't hold meaning, kuroo! maybe they don't to you but... it does to me."
it stilled for a moment.
"you're an idiot."
"wha–"
"where did you even get the notion that these things didn't hold any meaning to me, hm?"
he inched his face close to yours, starling you and your poor heart. you felt your cheeks burn and a whirl of emotions brewed at the pit of your stomach.
"but- but that night... with alisa you were- you talked to her after. you were blushing–"
he cut of your rambling with a deep chuckle, catching you off guard once more. he lightly flicked your forehead.
"i was blushing because i was sitting right next to the person i like and i was mere moments away from being outed to them in the middle of a damn barbecue which, by the way was not where i imagined i'd confess. neither in this stuffy club room, but here we are."
your mouth hung open in disbelief. you were were at a complete loss of words which kuroo dared to find amusing.
"i talked to her to clear things up. turned out she found you attractive, not me."
he chuckled at your dumbfounded state and grabbed a hold on your hand, gently pulling you to his chest. you welcomed this gesture and the next; he held your cheek gingerly against one hand, the other anchored on your waist. his soft lips met yours for a sweet brief kiss.
"so yeah, in case you still miss the point, i'm trying to say i like you. a lot more than i'm supposed to like a friend."
REQUEST: pspspsps i hope its okay if i drop my request here since i saw that yours are open :D can you maybe do how kuroo, iwaizumi and osamu rejects reader confession ( they are best friend ) because they have feelings for another person but later they regret it when they moved on? i love it when the boys realize it later how much the reader means to them but y/n took the chance to move on and have a sexy glow up ✋😩 yessss i wanna see them suffer at the end >:) • by anonymous
WARNINGS: dumb boys hurting your feelings and you hurting them right back :/
NOTES: i feel like i’m not too good at writing angst lol but i made these blurbs instead of hcs!
Request: “Hi! I really love you’re writing and was wondering if you could do prompt 25+29 for Kuroo Tetsuro from Haikyuu? And could it be angst to fluff? (Maybe Kuroo was ignoring the reader due to lots of work/stress so reader feels neglected?) It’s totally up to you tho! Ty so much!!”
25. “Would you notice if I was gone?”
29. “I didn’t mean it.”
↠ Pairing: Kuroo Tetsuro x F!Reader
↠ Warning: angst to fluff, mentions of pregnancy and kuroo’s sad childhood
↬ Word Count: 3.7k
↠ a/n: okay this is my longest one yet. I swear the prompt screams angst to fluff so much that I go into it.
Hi! Is it okay if I can request head cannons of the reader falling out of love with Kuroo, Osamu, Sakusa, and Matsukawa and she ends up dating someone else who really makes her happy? She had a one-sided crush on said boys but could tell they won’t return her feelings but when she does move on from them, they fall for her a bit too late.
Stuff like this satisfies me since characters realizing what they could’ve had is a nice cherry on top for me
— synopsis: haikyuu boys x y/n; one-sided crush regret vibes
— characters included: kuroo + osamu (ft. atsumu & kita)
— genre: angst, fluff + mix of aus!
— word count: 4k
— author's note: okay so I literally love this prompt so I'm actually going to split this into two bc I kind of just kept writing and its so much to fit onto one im sorry anon hehe
kuroo ft. atsumu | college! au
“it’s been over a year.” you said softly, almost instantly regretting it as the words left your mouth.
kuroo looked over at you in slight betrayal.
“what does that mean y/n?”
“you know what I mean kuroo.” you replied bitterly.
there was only so much you could handle, and at this point you were reaching the end.
“you know I loved her y/n, how could you say something like that?” kuroo said slightly irritated.
“yea and she cheated on you kuroo!” you retorted, throwing your hands in the air, “do you think someone in love would do something like that?! how are you still not over her when she literally cheated on you—?”
“you wouldn't know y/n! it’s not like you’ve ever been in love.” he snapped back, crossing his arms across his chest.
you let the rest of the words die on your tongue.
“I’ve never been in love huh?” you whispered softly to yourself, except kuroo easily heard every word.
his brows furrowed in confusion. he was your best-friend, clearly he would've known if you were in love with someone right?”
your hands tightened into fists at your side before you finally came to a resolve. you were going to do it. you were tired, exhausted and you couldn’t go on like this anymore. you were going to tell him.
lifting your head up, you met his curious eyes with your own blazing ones, “I’ve been in love for the last 10 years kuroo. in love with an idiot who only went to those who didn’t deserve him, abused him, took advantage of him and yet still continues to love them. in love with someone who was there for me all my life yet can’t see that I have been there for him either.”
kuroo froze.
“I’m in love with you kuroo.” you whispered finally.
you watched as kuroo shook his head softly before turning around and muttering a string of curse words. as every second passed, you could feel your heart shriveling up in your chest.
but that was nothing compared to what he would say next.
“y/n...I just can’t.” he breathed, “you’re my best friend. you know what you mean to me, but I just, not like that—”
“I-I got it.” you quickly interjected. not that you actually did, but you knew you wouldn’t be able to handle the rest if he kept talking.
giving him a tight smile, you got up from the edge of his bed and grabbed your bag.
“I think I’m going to go.” you whispered, choking back a sob as you ran out the door.
☁☁☁
you hadn’t talked to kuroo in a week since you had confessed. kuroo knew you needed space so he didn’t contact you for the first couple days, but after that he started to get worried. after all, you were still his best-friend and even if he wasn’t in love with you, he still cared about you a lot.
hearing a knock on your door, you got up from the couch with a groan and made your way to the front door.
opening the door, your eyes fell on a soaking kuroo who stood there with a sheepish smile on his face. without a second thought, you quickly ushered him inside before running into the house and coming back with a towel.
“you idiot.” you muttered softly, every thought of never wanting to see him again flying out the door he came in, “why didn’t you bring an umbrella?”
“it was only drizzling so I didn’t think I'd need it.” he admitted with a shrug before taking the towel from you.
you waited till he was dry before asking him with a sigh, “what are you doing here kuroo?”
frowning, he moved closer towards you before enveloping his hands into yours. his thumb rubbed the top of your hand softly, a habit he always had, a habit that you fell in love with.
but now it made you flinch as you quickly pulled your hand back to yourself, “j-just talk to me.”
surprise filled his eyes but he continued, “listen, I know last time we didn’t end things on a good note but I just want to talk things through y/n. I still care about you, a lot.”
you nodded. you knew you had to be mature about this one day or the other. when you fell in love with kuroo, you couldn’t deny that you were afraid of confessing to him for this very reason. before loving him, he was your best-friend. and you couldn’t lose that.
“okay, let’s talk then.”
☁☁☁
several years passed after you confessed your love to kuroo. while things were awkward at first, you tried your best to get over him while he tried to set some boundaries between the two of you to make sure you weren’t uncomfortable.
the both of you were at a college party when you met a certain someone that was sure to make your life a little more interesting.
reaching for the last strawberry-flavored drink, another hand beat you to it, swiping the drink up. turning around with a glare ready, you saw a blonde boy staring down at you with a soft smirk on his face.
“sorry, this is the only flavor I like.”
“that’s not my problem. I was here first.” you retorted back, motioning for him to hand it back to you.
chuckling, he said, “no problem. you can have it if you can reach it.”
just then he lifted it high above his head, which happened to be a good couple feet above you.
you raised your brow in amusement, “didn’t realize we were back in middle school. a little immature, don’t you think?”
giving you a half shrug, the smirk only grew on his face as he continued to taunt the can above your head.
rolling your eyes, you knew exactly what he wanted to see but you weren’t going to give him any of that. returning back the very shrug he gave you, you simply walked over to him before letting your hand rest on his chest.
blinking at you in surprise, the boy’s breath hitched as you lifted your head up so that you were only a couple inches away from his lips.
“hey,” you whispered, “how about instead of all this, we just share, hmm?” you drawled softly, letting your finger slowly trail up his chest.
while you were playing an act, you couldn’t help but feel your face flush especially when this said boy looked a little bit too attractive and had a nicer body than you anticipated.
but you weren’t one to back down. you let your hand fully wrap itself around his neck as you moved in closer.
“I—” he started to say when suddenly he felt his arm being pulled down and next thing he knew, his hand that once held the last can was now empty.
watching as you pulled yourself away from him, you stepped back before waving the can in his face, grinning from ear to ear.
“thanks for my drink!” you teased as you turned around and started to make your way back to your friends when—
“hey wait!” he called, catching your attention.
looking back, you cocked a brow at him, ready to send another sarcastic comment until you saw a genuine smile spread across his face. his eyes sparkled as he looked at you, causing your heart to suddenly beat faster in your chest.
“I'm atsumu, miya atsumu! ” he added before giving you what seemed like a hopeful look.
instead you replied with a soft chuckle, “nice to meet you atsumu, I'll see you around!”
☁☁☁
a couple days passed and it was finally the start of the new semester. you were sitting in your first class of the day as you pulled out your laptop, waiting for everyone to roll in and have the professor start when an all-too-familiar voice spoke up beside you.
“hey miss no name.”
jumping in slight surprise, you looked to your right just to see a familiar mop of blonde hair enter your vision.
“a-atsumu?”
dropping his backpack to the ground, he sat down beside you before shooting you a smug smile, “the one and only.”
the initial surprise on your face wore off and was slowly replaced by amusement (and also nervousness cause shit he happened to look even better than he did in the dark).
the next couple minutes went by much more smoother than you expected. despite the fact this was only the second time you saw him, you couldn’t deny feeling a certain comfort around him. whether it was the way his eyes gazed at you with every word you spoke, or the lingering smile, but you knew that this wouldn’t be the last of him anytime soon.
☁☁☁
“so, how’d that test go?” kuroo asked, almost instantly causing you to groan.
“kuroo please, I’m trying to forget that even happened.” you groaned, thinking back to the chemistry test you took yesterday that you knew for sure you bombed.
grinning, he replied, “you do know I'm a chemistry major right? you could’ve asked me for some help with studying dummy.”
"I know I know.” you said, shaking him off with your hand, “I ended up studying with a friend from class because like you, he’s surprisingly good at chemistry and equally annoying about it too.”
quirking his brow at that, he was about to ask you who that was when the both of you turned around at the sound of your name.
“Y/N!!!”
“speak of the devil.” you muttered under your breath, but Kuroo didn’t miss the way a smile tugged at the corners of your lips as you rolled your eyes at a figure that made its way towards the both of you.
“can you refrain from screaming my name across the campus, please?” you scowled at him.
atsumu grinned back before replying, “Nope, I need to let everyone know that I know the ever-so beautiful Y/N.”
eyes widening, a blush quickly filled your cheeks, “You—” as you hit his shoulder.
turning to kuroo, you motioned towards atsumu before saying, “kuroo this is atsumu. he’s in my chemistry class. atsumu, this is kuroo. he’s my best-friend from high school.”
atsumu turned his attention towards kuroo who had already been staring intently at the male since his arrival. clearing his throat, kuroo gave the blonde a nod, “it’s nice to meet you.”
smiling back, atsumu said, “you too,” before looking at you and adding with a wink, “didn’t know I was competing with a childhood best-friend.”
for the second time that day, you punched atsumu as a string of curse words left your mouth, “oh my god stop saying shit like that you idiot.”
kuroo felt his chest tighten as he watched the both of you bicker back and forth (aka flirt) in front of him. it was clear in almost every single way how the two of you felt about each other that anybody would’ve been able to tell in a matter of seconds. averting his gaze elsewhere, an odd sensation coursed through his veins, one he never felt before when it came to you.
fists tightening at his sides, he couldn’t help but think only one thing at that moment.
that used to be him.
☁☁☁
and it could have been him. if only he wasn’t such an idiot all those years back.
he watched as tears of joy streamed down your face as you covered your mouth in utter surprise.
it felt like the world slowed down for him at that moment. every single movement appeared in front of him felt like a stab to his already broken heart.
you nodding yes. atsumu slipping the ring onto your finger. you grabbing his cheeks as you pulled him into a kiss. atsumu twirling you around before. all of your friends erupting into cheers around you.
all except for him.
osamu ft. kita | soulmate! au
it was the middle of the night when you felt that sudden sting on your wrist that had you crying out to your parents. you remember them rushing to your side just to have warm smiles on their faces when they saw it appear, the mark of your soulmate.
fast forward several years later and you were now in college and while many of your friends had found their soulmates, you were in a very different position.
the most unfortunate position.
you remember the day you first saw him. you knew in that very moment that this would be a feeling you would never forget. a memory that would both fill your heart to the brim just for it to turn cold and shatter it in seconds.
"osamu! this is y/n, y/n this is my twin osamu!" atsumu introduced excitedly, a grin plastered across his face.
however the both of you were frozen.
you didn't know what made you so bold, but there you were grabbing the wrist of a stranger, no your soulmate, and flipping it to see the very mark that matched your own: a sun.
"y-you're my soulmate..." you whispered in a mix of surprise and disbelief, suddenly hitting you as the words escaped your mouth into existence. looking back up at him, your eyes twinkled with joy. you found him. you finally found him.
"holy shit." atsumu whispered in complete shock while osamu simply stared at you, lips pressed together in a tight line, his eyes void of any emotion.
almost as if he...wasn't happy.
suddenly he snatched his hand from yours, pulling his wrist close to his chest as if your touch had burned him.
“no. I'm not looking for a soulmate.”
your eyes widened in surprise until slowly the horror of his words dawned on you.
“o-osamu! what are you saying—?” you heard atsumu start to which his twin simply glared at him.
“you knew this atsumu. we’ve been over this, I don’t want a soulmate.” he said coldly before letting his eyes fall back on you.
your eyes had welled up before you could even realize, your heart that had been racing just seconds ago felt abnormally slow, almost as if it was fighting to beat, to keep you alive.
“I'm sorry.” he simply said before turning back on his heels and walking out the cafe doors, leaving you standing there with your world crumbling in a matter of simple minutes.
☼☼☼
after that day, you felt lost. you had tried talking to osamu again, and again, and again, asking for an explanation, asking for a chance, asking for anything. but much to your avail, he had rejected you each time, giving you no reason, nothing.
so in the end you proposed him one final thing.
“can we at least be friends?” you whispered tiredly.
osamu’s eyes widened in slight surprise. after weeks of you asking osamu for a variety of things, this was something he didn’t expect.
“what do you mean?”
you chuckled humorlessly. looking up at him, osamu could see that the twinkle in your eye was almost gone. all because of him.
“have you heard of platonic soulmates, osamu?” you responded softly.
he nodded slowly, still unsure where you were going with this.
you took in a shaky breath, gathering every last bit of strength in you before you finally plastered a weak smile on your face. pushing your hand out, you said, “hi. I’m y/n, and from today I’ll be your platonic soulmate, a friend.”
☼☼☼
several months passed and slowly, osamu opened up to you, as a friend. never did either of you cross that boundary. no matter how much your wrist tingled whenever you came close to him, no matter how much you could feel yourself falling harder and harder each day, for your soulmate who wanted nothing to do with love.
you had heard stories of soulmates that didn’t end up together, after all the universe wasn't perfect. while you never knew you would be one of them, it gave you slight reassurance that there was hope. that maybe one day you’d be able to move on and find someone else who would love you.
for you that day came a lot sooner than you imagined.
“I am so sorry!”
standing in there in absolute horror, you watched the coffee stain spread across your white blouse.
“I—” you started slowly when he ruffled through his book bag before suddenly thrusting some paper napkins into your hands.
“please use this, I’m so terribly sorry. I didn’t see where I was going and this is completely my fault.”
looking up slowly, your eyes grew wide as a boy with silver hair filled your vision. you didn’t know whether it was the way his warm but apologetic eyes softened when they met your gaze, or whether it was his face that seemed to slightly glow despite the deep flush in his cheeks from embarrassment, but it was something because suddenly you couldn’t look away.
you must have been staring at him for a while because he waved his hand in front of you, motioning for you take the napkins.
blinking, you nodding slowly as you dabbed the coffee from yourself as much as you could but there was no chance the stain across your shirt would go away anytime soon.
“shit, I have a presentation today...” you whispered softly as you stared down at yourself in pity, knowing you had no other choice but to go like this since there was no time for you to change and get back in time.
just then, the boy before you quickly removed the cardigan he was wearing.
“please take this!” he said, pushing the cardigan towards you.
bewildered by his sudden actions, you shook your head, “what, no! it’s fine! I know you didn’t mean to—”
“yes, but I would feel horrible having you walk around with that because of me. please wear this to cover it up.” he repeated, desperation laced in his voice.
so you took it from him, his eyes watching you as you pulled it over you. while it was slightly too big for you, it did the job, the coffee stain neatly tucked behind the blue knit fabric.
“thank you,” you finally whispered with a small smile, looking back to meet his gaze.
“no please don’t thank me, I don’t deserve that.” he shook his hands, chuckling awkwardly.
bidding each other an awkward but still warm goodbye, you had only made it a a couple feet away before you turned around, a sudden unidentifiable giddiness filling up your chest with every passing second.
“hey! what’s your name?”
turning around, his lips melted into a soft smile, “kita. kita shinsuke.”
☼☼☼
kita shinsuke. the man who came into your life like an accident started to feel more like the universe had an interesting way of playing fate. as several months passed after your encounter with him, you only came across him more. first he was in two of your classes the following semester, then he became your co-worker at the same coffee shop. before you knew it, the two of you became close and something more than friendship began to blossom between you both.
you remember the day when kita told you about his soulmate.
holding his wrist out to you, your fingers grazed softly over his mark, a full moon. except, it was fading.
a fading mark was an indication that one’s soulmate had passed away. kita told you he remembered when he first noticed it back in high school. his wrist had been hurting for weeks, sharp pains every now and then until they suddenly stopped. and it was then he saw the moon on his wrist that used to brightly gleam now began to fade.
“I-I’m so sorry.” you whispered softly, your heart breaking in your chest for the boy who sat beside you. kita deserved the world, no he deserved the universe for he was the kindest, most genuine person you had ever met in your entire life. it was unfair that this would happen to him, of all people.
shaking his head, he gently covered your hand with his, “hey, it’s okay, it’s not your fault. after all, I hope they are happy now and not in pain. that’s all that matters to me.”
it was then you told him about yourself. outside of osamu and atsumu knowing, you hadn’t confided in anyone about this. you didn’t want them to pity you, to see them look at you with those eyes as you told them that your soulmate said he would never love you.
but kita didn’t. instead, he pulled you into his arms and let you cry softly against his chest, whispering things to you that made you feel like you worth something.
days later and kita asked you to be his. he told you how he felt and that you didn’t have to reciprocate, after all you still had a soulmate and if you wanted to try to win his love he would never judge you for it. he told you to take your time and let him know, and no matter what he would still be there for you.
but you didn’t need time. the universe may have given you a soulmate, but it didn’t mean it gave you the right one. kita always felt like the right one. and now you knew it for sure.
☼☼☼
osamu watched the two of you from a distance. you were laughing at something kita said while he looked at you in complete adoration, his eyes filled with love as you spoke to him about something osamu couldn’t hear from where he was.
he felt his wrist throb.
pulling up his sleeve, he massaged the spot where his mark was, in hopes of easing the pain. but the more he did, the more it stung.
looking back up, he suddenly locked eyes with you. he watched as your brows furrowed in confusion until recognition set in. before osamu could do anything, you were already making your way towards him and pulling kita along.
“osamu! what are you doing here?” you asked casually, a wide smile resting on your face.
osamu frowned. he never saw you smile like that since he knew you. and for some reason, he felt his heart flutter in his chest as you continued to stare at him with that smile.
“osamu? hellooo, earth to osamu?” you giggled, waving your hand in his face.
clearing his throat, he quickly replied, “I-uh was just heading to my next class.”
“ohh, gotcha.” you nodded. turning to your side, you gestured towards kita, “this is kita, he’s my boyfriend.” you added softly.
as the word “boyfriend” left your mouth, you felt a sudden anxiousness fill ever inch of your body as you looked cautiously at your soulmate.
just then osamu smiled brightly at the both of you before holding his hand out to kita, “it’s nice to meet you. she’s been talking about you a lot.”
at that, you felt all the nerves ease before hitting him playfully on the shoulder, “hey you can’t just expose me like that.”
kita laughed softly in amusement, “it’s nice to meet you too, and please tell me more.”
the three of you walked together in conversation till you reached where osamu’s class, before bidding him a goodbye and making your separate ways. osamu watched as you both turned around while kita slipped his fingers through yours, pulling you close to his side as you walked away.
osamu felt the throbbing feeling return, yet this time it wasn't his wrist. pressing his hand to his chest, he felt a pain like no other in his heart. taking in a heavy breath, he tried his hardest to look away but he couldn’t, not when you were shining as bright as the sun.
In case you're short on the prompt thing, “Why are you telling me this?” for either Kuroo or Noya. Love ya ♥
a/n: hi there love!! let me tell you i struggled to get back into it at first but this actually inspired me to write something. so thank you! also i wanted to write something for noya at first too but it didn't go that well so i just went with kuroo. and ugh i love him
wc | genre: 0.8k | fluff + angst?
song recommendation: do i wanna know by arctic monkeys—yeah i listened to that writing this and damn to fall in love with a song again like this
There was a little puff of air as you sighed into the early night, embracing yourself to keep warm and your hands busy. The temperatures have dropped since you joined your friends inside the building, their cheeks and noses flushed from the liquor in their tummies, and the sun had set.
Why were you even out here, enduring the cold all by yourself—to get some fresh air?
You even forgot to bring your damn jacket.
“Oi.”
Another sigh slipped past your lips and you pursed them in an attempt to seem unbothered, seem fine. You didn’t have to turn to know who followed you outside, familiar jacket draped over his arm as he came to stand next to you.
Did it have to be him? Admittedly, you had hoped it would’ve been him. At the same time you wished no one had come after you. Not when you were feeling like this. Frustrated. Disappointed.
He was your best friend, having fun like the rest of them. Why were you being like this?
He nudged you gently with his elbow, trying to lighten up your mood.
Kuroo was good at that.
“Forget something?”
Tilting your head slightly, your mouth twitched, hinting the faintest smile you were too tired to offer as you slipped into the extra layer of clothing.
“Thank you.”
“You’re not enjoying yourself, huh,” he stated and lifted an arm to place it on your shoulder.
Yeah, he did that a lot.
Getting this close to you, oblivious to what his touch did to you, while flashing his way too confident grin that had you hold your breath for a second or two.
“Yakkun’s trying really hard to get you to notice him today—I think he likes you.”
He really had to point that out, yeah?
“I’ve known him for years. He’s a good guy.”
What was he even saying? Did he seriously try to set you up with this old teammate of his? Did he know you liked him and tried to get you off his back?
“Why are you telling me this?”
There was a silent pause. Both of you just staring ahead into the busy streets that were only starting to quiet down as time passed.
“Isn’t he your type? I thought he was.”
Right. This guy was oblivious of your feelings. Just trying to set you up with anyone because he’s your best friend and you’ve been single for a hot minute.
“He’s not.”
“Oh,” he breathed, peering down at you with a thoughtful expression, “huh.”
“What, you thought he was?”
Kuroo laughed, a nervous kind of laugh, as he rubbed the back of his neck awkwardly.
Did he really? Why?
“I’m usually really good at guessing that sort of stuff,” he confessed with a grin.
“Yeah?” you smiled, arching an eyebrow at him to ask him to elaborate.
Instead, you saw something entirely else flicker in his eyes. Something confusing. Then he moved.
Standing right in front you, had you realize just how much taller he was by the way you craned your neck, a question lingering in your eyes.
This is why he made this so difficult, blurring the lines of friendship and whatever he thought this was whenever he was in the mood.
Getting so close to you, making your heat beat so much faster, your breath hitch just a little bit but he was so close that he could hardly miss it.
When he looked down at you with those eyes, almost as though analyzing your every move, that little smile on his lips as to tease you. He always teased you so well.
“What..”
A gasp leaving your mouth as he leaned down just a fraction and cupped your chin with one, warm hand of his. Fingers cradling your skin as he tilted your head up a little more, as though he knew exactly how hard he made your heat beat.
Staring down at you, not meeting your confused, anticipating gaze but lower.. your.. mouth?
“Then.. am I your type?”
That damn smile was dangerous. And he closed in, just a teasing bit more, and there you could feel it, his breath fanning lightly over the tip of your nose. Heavy lidded eyes as he gauged your reaction that you couldn’t even control.
Had he said something?
“Hmm,” he made, your eyes almost fluttering closed as he hummed, breath warm on your skin. Tilted head, teasing smile.. he let go of you, backing away a step so nonchalantly it confused you even more.
Did he know after all?
He laughed again, softly this time, as you tried to hide your flustered expression. Patting your head with his hand as his arm reached around your shoulders, tugging you close to his chest as he always did and making your heart skip another beat, you could sob in frustration.
