TARO RADIO #17 GOING LIVE ON TARO BAKES:
── ❝ who do we have on live as our guest today? of course, it has to be the lovely mitsumi from skip & loafer!
on TARO BAKES, we feature various chefs with a knack for baking treats of all flavours. bring your own signature recipe, and come join the show! don't forget to read the rulebook though ...
THINK I LOST MY WAY ...
── GOTTA FIND MY WAY BACK TO YOU .ᐟ
TARO BAKES is an original show started in 2024 sponsored by @d1strict99
we hate and do not allow people to steal, copy or feed our works to AI.
╭ ❝ yamaguchi is your desk partner for geography. you've always seemed out of his league, hence he avoided talking to you... that is until fate brought the both of you together through a pair project. maybe you still seem out of his league...but how does he stop these blooming feelings of his?
(tldr: texts with yamaguchi who slowly starts falling in love with you)
cw: probably ooc, college au, kind of(?) slow burn, reader lowk sucks at geography, reader & yamaguchi shares only one class (geography), mentions of kms jokes, lowk open ending, avoid scrutinising the timestamps
a/n: this was pretty fun to write (it was another random idea among my messy train of thoughts) hope u enjoyed reading this, as much as I enjoyed writing it <3 lowk got lazy with the layout for this...pls don't grill me about it😭
╭ ❝ yamaguchi is your desk partner for geography. you've always seemed out of his league, hence he avoided talking to you... that is until fate brought the both of you together through a pair project. maybe you still seem out of his league...but how does he stop these blooming feelings of his?
(tldr: texts with yamaguchi who slowly starts falling in love with you)
cw: probably ooc, college au, kind of(?) slow burn, reader lowk sucks at geography, reader & yamaguchi shares only one class (geography), mentions of kms jokes, lowk open ending, avoid scrutinising the timestamps
a/n: this was pretty fun to write (it was another random idea among my messy train of thoughts) hope u enjoyed reading this, as much as I enjoyed writing it <3 lowk got lazy with the layout for this...pls don't grill me about it😭
ONLY COS' IT'S YOU
— a hinata shoyo x f!reader oneshot
╭ ❝ you're a mess, especially after your dear mother's passing. yet, he makes the effort of taking care of you and replacing that hole of yours in your heart.
cw: probably ooc, completely written fic, hurt/comfort, post-timeskip dating au, mentions of death and losing someone, non-sexual intimacy (sleeping together), wc: 1.1k
It's been for quite a while now. You would find yourself waking up, in the middle of the night, the back of your shirt completely soaked wet. Your breathing and heartbeats erratic. There almost seemed to be no way to calm yourself down, if not for his presence.
The you, who constantly shot awoke in the middle of the night, getting all shaken up by the same repeating nightmare, would always get comforted by him. His firm and steady hand, stroking your back gently, even if the soaked fabric felt disgusting to touch.
His soft whisper into your ears, repeatedly assuring you, while pressing soft kisses against your head gently, was enough to make you close your eyes once more and embrace his warm presence.
Initially, you thought he would leave your side. Tell you that you were too much for him to handle. After all, you couldn't even manage yourself when you had such terrible nightmares.
Even if the nightmare is the same one as last nights', the night one week ago, or even the night one month ago, you never managed to stop getting scared awake by it. The nightmare of seeing your own mother take her last breath, as her heartbeat slows on the heartrate monitor, before it finally forms a straight line.
Your mother has long rested soundly, yet the repeated image of seeing her for one last time—knowing you'll never get to see her soft smile, hear the soft laugh she makes every time after calling your name, and her nimble hands over the needle and thread—continues to haunt you.
It's almost like the heavens didn't want you to rest in peace, even after trying to find multiple ways to get closure over her passing. Anti-depressants, sleeping pills, deep sleeping music...any possible method someone had recommended you to use, in order to finally sleep soundly.
At least, that was until you found the comfort of your boyfriend, Hinata Shoyo.
Knowing that your mother's passing meant the house felt more emptier to you now, he immediately moved in to fill that space without complaints.
He would make all your three meals daily, even though you would sometimes make grumpy comments like, "My mother could cook better than this." Instead of taking you as ungrateful and no longer cooking for you, he never took any of those comments to heart and instead persisted in taking care of you.
He even made sure to learn all of your mother's signature recipes by heart, so that he could replicate the feeling you long for—the taste of your mother's warmth and love in your favourite dishes of hers.
Maybe it was because he knew that you were never yourself right now. You were the worst possible version of yourself. This version of you grieved daily, crying as silently as possible in the shower over your mother. This version of you never got proper sleep, causing you to get more easily grumpy than usual.
Perhaps, he also knew that it was because, even if you complained or nagged at him, you would always have a version of you that would never stop loving him. You needed him the most, right now, and he filled up the spot just perfectly.
The love you missed having, he replaced it.
And deep down, you knew that, maybe only he could replace that love.
No one would be as patient as he was to you.
Kissing you on those foul lips of yours that you just used to scold him. Making you laugh whenever you were about to cry, by purposefully doing something silly. Giving you the warmest hugs, on days when you especially needed them.
Who else would do that for you, if not for him?
Turning around slowly, you could feel his arm rested on the curve of your hip. You were immediately met with the sight of him peacefully resting next to you, his arm slung around you, and his breathing soft and steady.
You could still see the cup—still filled with leftover chamomile tea, which had now turned cold—left on the bedside counter behind his figure. He had woke up in the middle of the night to make it for you, yet you had pushed the cup hastily away from yourself then, even throwing up some of the contents.
He had probably been too tired to wash and clean the cup, especially after cleaning you up, that he had left the cup there on the bedside table.
A small feeling of remorse tugged at your heartstrings, as you reached a slow finger to brush against the curve of his eyebrows gently. You feel the soft hairs of his eyebrows tickle your fingers, making you smile slightly.
Before you could retract your finger, you watch as his eyelashes flutter once, before he opens his eyes completely. A small smile immediately meets his lips, his arm wrapping tighter around you, as he pulls you closer against his chest.
"You're up. Did you sleep well?"
He asks once, his voice still slightly thick with sleep, making you laugh softly.
"Did you sleep well?"
You ask him back, a small apologetic smile now forming across your lips. You nuzzle your head into the warmth of his chest gently, before pulling away to meet his gaze once more.
"I must have made a fuss once more, last night."
You continue, a tone of sadness attached to your words. You watch as a small furrow forms across his eyebrows, before he brings two fingers to stretch your lips upwards. You hadn't even realised they had dropped, until he had done that.
"You're never a bother to me, you know that? I wouldn't mind doing all that, because it's you."
His words only tugged at your heartstrings once more, causing your gaze to soften slightly. You couldn't help but lean in to give him a chaste kiss on his lips.
"You shouldn't be so patient to me. What if I actually hurt you, even if I don't mean it? You should call me out when I do something absolutely terrible or bothersome."
Even with your words, his smile never fades. The smile on his lips hold as the finger stretching your lips upwards, shifts to brush your cheek gently.
"Even if you hurt me, it wouldn't be enough to hurt me and make me think of giving up on you."
He says softly, letting his forehead lean against yours gently for a moment. You watch as his eyes flutter shut for a moment. He was completely in ease and peace, resting against your forehead.
You let yourself relax and close your eyes as well, a small smile slipping against your lips as you let out a soft exhale.
"Only because it's you, I hope you never think of giving up on me."
a/n: a random quick writing I did last night with an idea that's been recently stuck in my head (it was probably better in my head but um well...) lowk didn't proofread this so don't jump me... also why do I lowkey keep writing hinata shoyo...someone stop me...😭😭
ONLY COS' IT'S YOU
— a hinata shoyo x f!reader oneshot
╭ ❝ you're a mess, especially after your dear mother's passing. yet, he makes the effort of taking care of you and replacing that hole of yours in your heart.
cw: probably ooc, completely written fic, hurt/comfort, post-timeskip dating au, mentions of death and losing someone, non-sexual intimacy (sleeping together), wc: 1.1k
It's been for quite a while now. You would find yourself waking up, in the middle of the night, the back of your shirt completely soaked wet. Your breathing and heartbeats erratic. There almost seemed to be no way to calm yourself down, if not for his presence.
The you, who constantly shot awoke in the middle of the night, getting all shaken up by the same repeating nightmare, would always get comforted by him. His firm and steady hand, stroking your back gently, even if the soaked fabric felt disgusting to touch.
His soft whisper into your ears, repeatedly assuring you, while pressing soft kisses against your head gently, was enough to make you close your eyes once more and embrace his warm presence.
Initially, you thought he would leave your side. Tell you that you were too much for him to handle. After all, you couldn't even manage yourself when you had such terrible nightmares.
Even if the nightmare is the same one as last nights', the night one week ago, or even the night one month ago, you never managed to stop getting scared awake by it. The nightmare of seeing your own mother take her last breath, as her heartbeat slows on the heartrate monitor, before it finally forms a straight line.
Your mother has long rested soundly, yet the repeated image of seeing her for one last time—knowing you'll never get to see her soft smile, hear the soft laugh she makes every time after calling your name, and her nimble hands over the needle and thread—continues to haunt you.
It's almost like the heavens didn't want you to rest in peace, even after trying to find multiple ways to get closure over her passing. Anti-depressants, sleeping pills, deep sleeping music...any possible method someone had recommended you to use, in order to finally sleep soundly.
At least, that was until you found the comfort of your boyfriend, Hinata Shoyo.
Knowing that your mother's passing meant the house felt more emptier to you now, he immediately moved in to fill that space without complaints.
He would make all your three meals daily, even though you would sometimes make grumpy comments like, "My mother could cook better than this." Instead of taking you as ungrateful and no longer cooking for you, he never took any of those comments to heart and instead persisted in taking care of you.
He even made sure to learn all of your mother's signature recipes by heart, so that he could replicate the feeling you long for—the taste of your mother's warmth and love in your favourite dishes of hers.
Maybe it was because he knew that you were never yourself right now. You were the worst possible version of yourself. This version of you grieved daily, crying as silently as possible in the shower over your mother. This version of you never got proper sleep, causing you to get more easily grumpy than usual.
Perhaps, he also knew that it was because, even if you complained or nagged at him, you would always have a version of you that would never stop loving him. You needed him the most, right now, and he filled up the spot just perfectly.
The love you missed having, he replaced it.
And deep down, you knew that, maybe only he could replace that love.
No one would be as patient as he was to you.
Kissing you on those foul lips of yours that you just used to scold him. Making you laugh whenever you were about to cry, by purposefully doing something silly. Giving you the warmest hugs, on days when you especially needed them.
Who else would do that for you, if not for him?
Turning around slowly, you could feel his arm rested on the curve of your hip. You were immediately met with the sight of him peacefully resting next to you, his arm slung around you, and his breathing soft and steady.
You could still see the cup—still filled with leftover chamomile tea, which had now turned cold—left on the bedside counter behind his figure. He had woke up in the middle of the night to make it for you, yet you had pushed the cup hastily away from yourself then, even throwing up some of the contents.
He had probably been too tired to wash and clean the cup, especially after cleaning you up, that he had left the cup there on the bedside table.
A small feeling of remorse tugged at your heartstrings, as you reached a slow finger to brush against the curve of his eyebrows gently. You feel the soft hairs of his eyebrows tickle your fingers, making you smile slightly.
Before you could retract your finger, you watch as his eyelashes flutter once, before he opens his eyes completely. A small smile immediately meets his lips, his arm wrapping tighter around you, as he pulls you closer against his chest.
"You're up. Did you sleep well?"
He asks once, his voice still slightly thick with sleep, making you laugh softly.
"Did you sleep well?"
You ask him back, a small apologetic smile now forming across your lips. You nuzzle your head into the warmth of his chest gently, before pulling away to meet his gaze once more.
"I must have made a fuss once more, last night."
You continue, a tone of sadness attached to your words. You watch as a small furrow forms across his eyebrows, before he brings two fingers to stretch your lips upwards. You hadn't even realised they had dropped, until he had done that.
"You're never a bother to me, you know that? I wouldn't mind doing all that, because it's you."
His words only tugged at your heartstrings once more, causing your gaze to soften slightly. You couldn't help but lean in to give him a chaste kiss on his lips.
"You shouldn't be so patient to me. What if I actually hurt you, even if I don't mean it? You should call me out when I do something absolutely terrible or bothersome."
Even with your words, his smile never fades. The smile on his lips hold as the finger stretching your lips upwards, shifts to brush your cheek gently.
"Even if you hurt me, it wouldn't be enough to hurt me and make me think of giving up on you."
He says softly, letting his forehead lean against yours gently for a moment. You watch as his eyes flutter shut for a moment. He was completely in ease and peace, resting against your forehead.
You let yourself relax and close your eyes as well, a small smile slipping against your lips as you let out a soft exhale.
"Only because it's you, I hope you never think of giving up on me."
a/n: a random quick writing I did last night with an idea that's been recently stuck in my head (it was probably better in my head but um well...) lowk didn't proofread this so don't jump me... also why do I lowkey keep writing hinata shoyo...someone stop me...😭😭
hi <33 just wanted to say that i loveee the skip and loafer theme you've got going on 🥹 seeing mitsumi (literally anywhere) makes me go "YES THAT'S MY DAUGHTER!!" 🤍
OMG THANK YOUU🥹🥹 u have no idea how happy this makes me feel🥹🥹 i love hearing abt skip & loafer fans becos it makes me so happy when ppl know peak😝😝🔥 LITERALLY LOVE MITSUMI SO MUCHHH #ourdaughter🥹
hi guys! i will not be posting (or be as active) on tumblr until they fix the update becos it pisses me off☹️ (aka also my act of rebellion) tho i have my notifs on so i'll check this app whenever i receive notifs <3 in the meantime, mutuals feel free to ask for my other socials (discord/twitter) !!
I MISS YOU, PLEASE DON'T CALL
— a hinata shoyo x f!reader oneshot
╭ ❝ stuck in brazil, shoyo starts to realise he misses home—and very much, you. but coming to brazil meant breaking up with you. you're no longer his to call, to text and to miss.
cw: probably ooc, completely written fic, post timeskip au (brazil shoyo), angst (paired with a small side serving of hurt/comfort), layout best viewed in light mode, wc: 1.3k
Cradling his legs to his stomach, Shoyo sat on the soft sand, his gaze staring out towards the distance. He could feel the warmth of the sun radiating off his skin, leaving a slight burning sensation. Yet, despite that, he made no effort to move into a shadier area.
Brazil was beautiful. It was exactly like he imagined.
It was harder to feel cold here, even without the layers. Especially when it felt like he was baked under the sun half the time. The sight of beaches weren't rare either. In fact, it felt like more area on land was occupied by soft crumbling sand.
Though, it felt like something was amiss, like a lack of true happiness and warmth in his heart.
Sure, Brazil was lively. There was never a moment where laughter wasn't heard. In fact, it was much livelier than Japan, which had its own silent and peaceful moments. Moments where the streets would get extremely quiet and nights could get lonely, you could even hear the sound of a cat chasing a mouse among the bushes.
But, no matter where he looked, whether was it the stunning view of sunlight glistening along the surface of seawater or the sight of people gathered together to play volleyball—something Shoyo had always found exciting—it never seemed to truly lift his spirits.
Maybe it was because he knew that he was silently missing Japan. Or more specifically, you, who he had left behind in Japan in order to finally get here.
You would have loved it here.
He thought, a small solemn smile forming across his lips as he threw back his head. Lifting a small hand to shield his eyes from the bright rays of the sun, he let his eyes drift to the azure blue sky.
You had always talked about going to the beach, each time with a big smile—one that Shoyo could never forget. After all, whenever you talked about the beach—whether it was anticipating the feeling of the cold seawater reaching your ankles, or the ticklish feeling of soft sand filling between the gaps of your toes—you had always mentioned it with a smile one would give after sucessfully reaching their goals.
To you, maybe visiting the beach was one of your lifelong goals. To smell the scent of fresh saltwater in your nostrils, to wear the most prettiest and flowiest sundresses and to build beautiful sandcastles.
Yet, now here he was, sitting along the shore all alone.
There was laughter in the distance, the sound of someone yelling something unfamiliar in their native tongue and the noise of waves constantly crashing onto the shore. However, all Shoyo could think about was you.
You with your beautiful bright smile, a hand on a summer beach hat which you had made him buy from one of the stands close to the beach, as you wave him over to the seawater.
Your laughter would've drowned out all the noise around him, especially since it was one of the most radient laughs Shoyo sworn he could've heard. You always laughed like there was no tomorrow.
Even on that day when he told you he was choosing Brazil over you. He had expected your smile to drop instantly. After all, you had always told him you would break up with him, if he decided to go Brazil.
Not because you feared long distance, but because you didn't want to hold him back from his career. If Shoyo wanted to live in Brazil and further his career, you wouldn't be able to follow him. Not when you had built an entire life in Japan, one that you weren't willing to leave behind so soon. The last thing you wanted was for Shoyo to never consider becoming a permanent resident in Brazil, just for you.
Especially if becoming a permanent resident meant being better in volleyball, and gaining more opportunities and experiences than he can have in Japan.
But on that day, you had given him the biggest smile as you took the final sips of your milkshake, encouraging him to chase after his dreams. Shoyo never knew that the same smile that made his heart skip, was capable of hurting him as well.
At least until that day.
It was ironic. Shoyo would never have considered that he would be regretting his choice about coming to Brazil, because it meant leaving you behind. He had always thought volleyball meant the world to him.
Whenever someone asked him about his goals or his passions, he had always talked about volleyball. With that silly smile, as you would say. His life always seemed to revolve around volleyball, never anything else.
Yet, now as he sat on the sandy floor, all he could think about was you.
How you had slowly shaped to become part of his world. Perhaps, slowly, without the both of you realising, you had slowly became an essential to him.
It wasn't just volleyball anymore.
It was you. Your sheepish smiles whenever he caught you in the middle of something suspicious, like that time when you tried to sneak up on his sleeping figure and doodle a silly face on the right side of his cheek. Your little twirls that you would do every time he asked you to show off your outfit. Your beautiful and airy laughter whenever he made a joke, no matter whether it was funny or not.
Your every move and every expression was something he couldn't find himself to forget, just like how he couldn't forget every volleyball move.
Heaving a small sigh, Shoyo brought the back of his hand to his forehead, wiping off sweat lazily. In moments like this, you would've given him your handkerchief, nagging at him about how his hand was probably dirty and he shouldn't touch anywhere close his face with his bare hands.
Yet, you aren't here to tell him all this. You weren't here to nag at him or tell him off for the little bad habits he had. He had to find a way to keep growing and improving, even if it meant being without you.
Standing up, Shoyo dusted the back of his pants quickly, making sure sand was no longer sticking to the fabric. Forcing a small smile on his face, Shoyo tried to picture you, tugging at his hand to approach one of the people who were playing beach volleyball right now.
"Ask them! Ask them if you can join."
He imagined you saying, as you continued to tug on his hand. Slowly, he found his footsteps inching close to a group of people. They were playing beach volleyball among themselves, smiles sprawled across their lips.
Though, he could tell they were missing a player. He knew he could fill in for them.
Turning around, he looked for you—or the fragment of you that he had imagined, standing somewhere along the beach staring at him. And there you were, standing behind him, giving him a sure nod.
"Join them, Shoyo! It will be fun!"
You had told him softly, while giving him a gentle but firm push on his back. He could feel his heart skipping a beat, his hands clenched with determination as he took a sharp breath, allowing you to push him forward—closer to the group of people playing beach volleyball.
Of course you would've encouraged him. If you were truly here, you wouldn't have just pushed him to play with others. You may even start begging on his behalf to allow him to join them in their games, even if they had enough players. You would never want him to be sitting around, wishing to be back in Japan.
Finally, he turned his gaze back towards the group, his mouth parting open. His gaze finally burned with the same determination that it had when he first landed on Brazil. He had to stop missing you somehow, but learn to miss the aching feeling of his arms after volleyball.
While, you wouldn't always be his world. He could make you a part of his world, alongside with volleyball—which would be his true world.
"Can I join y'all? In beach volleyball?"
a/n: this was actually some really random idea that popped up into my head at 2am after I watched an edit on timeskip shoyo LOL... (his brazil days may forever haunt me because it's one of his saddest but proudest moments frfr🥹🥹) I'm worried this seems a bit rushed ngl but I hope y'all enjoyed !!
╭ ❝ You're not one to be a fan of making random small talks with acquaintances you know in your campus...But this silly orange head have to be one of your exceptions, right...? Especially with the way he's somehow making you laugh, even with the smallest remarks....
cw: ooc (probably), modern college au, you can consider yn to be a huge introvert, kind of open ending (feel free to interpret it however you want!), completely written fic, wc: 2.9k
note: this oneshot is inspired by "stay a while" by ejean & niko rain; layout is best viewed in light mode !
The sun was abnormally hot as you stepped out of the campus doors. Lifting a hand to shield your eyes from the merciless rays of sun shining down upon you, you drop your gaze to the ground to see your shadow reflected hard against the pavement.
In moments like this, the easy fix would be a cup of cold matcha latte. You think silently in your head, letting your thoughts run on about a nice glass of matcha latte—the green foamy top, its creamy texture and earthy taste...paired with ice cubes to cool the drink and add onto its refreshing taste.
Before you know it, you find that your footsteps have led you to the front door of your favourite cafe. While it was a cafe close to your campus, it was located deeper down in the alleyway—tucked into a hidden corner of the street—making it comfortably quiet even during peak hours.
It was one of your favourite underrated gems, a study spot that you had been gatekeeping so that you could enjoy its cozy and comfortable atmosphere all to yourself, without having to worry about bumping into one of your classmates and needing to make small talk with them.
Ding Ding!
The bell attached to the front door immediately makes it's familiar ringing noise as you push it open. The smell of freshly grounded coffee beans hits your nostrils as you take a second step. You find your senses rested by the warm environment of the cafe, making a small sigh of relief escape from your lips.
Definitely your type of comfort.
You find your gaze immediately landing on a table buried furthest into the corner of the cafe, even if you had just taken the first step in. It is somewhere far from the door but with a nice window view. Somewhere where you could settle down comfortably, without worrying about anyone intruding into your personal space.
It was your usual spot. One that you always sat at whenever you came to this cafe, unless it was taken by someone else—which rarely happens.
Yet, before you could comfortably tuck yourself into your seat, your peace is rather quickly disturbed by the sound of footsteps pacing towards your direction. Your head jolts up abruptly, eyes widening slightly as you catch the sight of a beaming orange head looking at you—almost too excitedly.
It was strange. This cafe was never one to immediately ask customers for their orders, especially if they had just settled down in their seat. Yet, based on his attire—a pristine white collared blouse, paired with a neat brown apron which had a few lighter stains speckled across it—you could tell he was one of it's staff.
"What would you like to order?"
He started, his voice bright and chirpy, a very much contrast to your surprised and flustered expression. You weren't expecting anyone to approach you so soon, his presence had clearly caught you off guard.
Yet, he seemed to take no notice of that.
Fortunately, before he could continue on, another employee soon rushes up to the both of you. Shooting you a small apologetic look, he quickly drags the orange head away from you, while whispering harshly to him about something you couldn't catch—especially with how quickly they left you.
Taking a small breath, you busy your hands by continuing to set up the table before you—bringing out your tablet and notebook—as you try to recompose yourself. You should've seen it coming. After all, there will always be someone more extroverted than you, who would attempt to intrude your personal bubble. Even if they didn't mean to.
Finally, you bring yourself to press the call button available at the seat, effectively catching the attention of one of the workers available in the cafe. A part of you breaths an audible sound of relief, when you notice it isn't the familiar orange head who was approaching you.
While, you did feel guilty for maybe getting him into a little trouble, considering the way he was hurriedly pulled aside by another one of the stuff, you weren't prepared to be overwhelmed by his bubbly personality once again.
"Can I get the tiramisu cake, along with an iced matcha latte?"
You ask, as soon as the waitress nears your table. You watch as she nods slightly, scribbling your order down quickly into her small notepad—one that each staff was probably given to remember orders made by customers.
"Anything else?"
She continues, tilting her head slightly to the side as she gazes at you gently. Even though she was gazing straight into your eyes, you could feel that her stare seemed to hold a warm and quiet calmness—one that made you feel at ease, no matter how directly she was looking down at you.
Shaking your head gently, you return her warm gaze with a small smile before she walks away. The cafe was quiet enough as per usual, enough to allow you to hear the soft sound of her heels clicking against the wooden floor of the shop as she walks away.
Before you had even noticed, the light that was peeking in through the blinds from the radient afternoon sun was slowly dimming. You could feel the sky slowly darkening as time passed, your bottom starting to get sore and numb from staying long in your seat as well.
Stretching out your hands slightly, you lifted your gaze to catch the orange head staff silently staring at you. As soon as you meet his eyes, you feel your gaze widen slightly in surprise. You hadn't realised he was staring at you, for who knows how long.
Usually, whenever someone was staring at you, you would be able to catch their gaze quickly. Especially, if you were feeling conscious about your surroundings at the current moment. Yet, possibly at this moment, you had been too carried away with the work in front of you to notice him.
You blink slightly, your hand gingerly reaching towards your almost finished cup of iced matcha latte—which was now left with one out of four quarters of the green liquid, with barely any ice visible. No matter what you did, you hadn't dared to lift your gaze off him. Even if it was for a quick moment, for who knew when he might suddenly approach you again.
Slowly, you started to realise your worst fears was coming through, as he slowly made his way towards you. Though, your feel your gaze soften slightly, when you notice the apologetic look on his face.
He didn't come empty handed. With him, he held a small plate which had a piece of strawberry shortcake on it. You couldn't help but feel your mouth water slightly, your gaze now focusing more on the piece of cake than his figure as he neared you.
"I'm sorry about scaring you before!"
He started, a note of apology clear in his voice as he placed the plate of strawberry shortcake on your table gently. He had his head bowed low, as soon as he had placed down the cake, his palms clasped together firmly.
A small laugh bubbles out of your lips before you stifle it quickly. You can't help but find the whole situation amusing. It was the first time a cafe worker had came up to you, so apologetically to apologise about a small mistake they had made. Even offering up a peace offering of some sorts.
Fortunately, or so unfortunately, he seemed to have caught your laugh, causing him to lift his head slightly to peek at your facial expressions with slight curiosity. You watch as he finally straightens up, tilting his head to the side slightly as he continues,
"I don't think I did anything really funny…did I?"
His words cause you to shake your head slightly, a small laugh escaping your lips once again, before you respond back gently. You could feel your lips lift up involuntarily, as you spoke.
"No…It's just….I thought it was kind of silly that you apologised this sincerely, over something that wasn't much of a big deal…"
You pause for a moment, a warm smile forming across your lips as you observe the curiosity that was spelt across his face slowly settle with enlightenment.
"I wasn't expecting this at all. Even the strawberry shortcake."
At the mention of the strawberry shortcake, his gaze seemed to immediately brighten, as though you had made a mention about something he really liked. You watched, with slightly raised brows as his eyes widen slightly, a large grin forming across his face.
"The strawberry shortcake! I hope you like it! I made it myself."
As soon as you heard his words, you pause to take another look at the piece of cake he had placed on your table. You had previously debated in your head before whether the cakes made in this cafe was handmade by the staff or simply bought. It took you three days, before you had finally made up your mind that it was bought.
With that in mind, you could feel another wave of surprise hit you, before you dig your fork into the slice of cake carefully. Based on the way your fork sliced through the cake neatly, you could tell the texture of it is extremely soft. That was exactly the style you liked your cakes to be.
As you lift the small piece of cake that you had cutout with your fork to your lips, you could feel him staring intently at you, with what seemed like utmost anticipation and excitement, until you finally swallowed.
"So? How is it?"
He asked you, as soon as you swallow the contents of the cake down. You don't register his question for a moment, taking the time to slowly savour the sweet aftertaste of the strawberry cake, before you look at him again.
"It's great. I wouldn't think it was handmade."
You finally respond, smiling slightly at him as you dig your fork into the cake once again, attempting to cut another small piece of the cake. Maybe you were hungry at this moment, especially after burning quite some of your braincells from revising your notes, but the cake did taste really good.
You weren't expecting much before, even if the slice of cake did look visually appealing, decorated carefully with fresh red strawberries and carefully squeezed whipped cream. After all, a visually appealing food doesn't immediately gurantee a good taste. Yet, this slice of cake seemed to meet your expectations in both aspects.
Bringing your gaze away from the slice of cake, you catch another large grin spread across his face once again. Somehow, that smile on your face seem to make your insides feel warm as well. There wasn't anything remotely special about his smile, yet you could feel a part of his warmth and joy being passed to you.
"Really? You think that way?"
He asks excitedly, as he seemed to bounce back and forth on the heel of his feet for a moment. He was practically brimming with uncontainable excitement, you can't help but let out another soft laugh watching him.
Nodding slightly, you watch as you feel his gaze twinkle back into yours. There was something about his gaze that made you feel like showering him with more compliments, until there was nothing possible left to say regarding the slice of cake he made.
Maybe it was because of how expressive he seemed to get at your every word. You hadn't met someone this expressive before, with a face that allowed you to read every single emotion of his based on his expression. It made you feel like your words was something special, something that held impact towards him.
Slowly, he scoots his way towards the seat opposite you, gesturing towards it as he asked you softly,
"Do you mind if I sit here for a while?"
You shook your head slightly at his words, smiling slightly as you gestured for him to take a seat. It almost surprised you with how fast you seemed to have responded to his question. Usually, you would hesitate for a moment before you allowed someone to share a table with you—especially if it was someone you just started talking to a few moments ago.
Yet, there was something about him that made it easy for you to warm up towards him. He seemed to make every word and smile that escaped your lips easy, something that was different from the usual conversations you had—where smiles had to be plastered on your face, so that you didn't look intimidating or cold to the other, and every word was overthought before it came out.
He nodded gently towards the notebook that you had on the table, guiding your attention towards your handwritten notes which you had neatly documented in your notebook with his head, before he asked with curiosity in his voice.
"Are you perhaps studying in the college nearby? The notebook looks like the one they gave us during the orientation package."
At his words, your heart skipped a beat. You widen your eyes slightly, before you nod slightly, closing the notebook gently to reveal the cover. There it was, on the cover, the name of your college—which potentially, was where he was studying at as well.
As soon as he caught a glimspe of the cover of your notebook, a gleam of excitement met his gaze once again. His fingers drummed on the table surface excitedly, before he continued, a smile tugging at his lips once again.
"Which major— No! Wait let me guess!"
You placed a hand over your lips to stop a soft laugh from escaping your lips once again, a part of you finding it adorable that he was stumbling over his words in excitement. You can't help but feel a slight sense of anticipation fill you, as you watch him consider over his options thoughtfully.
His brows were slightly scunched up, in deep concentration, as he studied your appearance and the items you had laid out on the table for a moment. There was something about the way he seemed to consider deeply before making a rash guess that made you almost intrigued.
"I'm guessing…"
He starts, his voice slightly trailing off as he takes a final glance at you before continuing. You could feel your heart drumming with slight anticipating as you await his next few words.
"…You're a biology major!"
Before you could even answer if he had made an accurate guess, your expression seemed to have given the answer away, as a look of pride and satisfaction was immediately brought to his face.
"I knew it! Your notes seemed content heavy, so I made a rough guess!"
He exclaimed excitedly, the small proud smile not disappearing from his lips as he clapped his hands together. You find yourself sharing sentiments of his joy and pride as you look at him, your heart swelling with happiness.
Yet, before you could ask him back what his major was, you catch the way his gaze seemed to have now drifted towards the front counter of the shop. His proud smile was now replaced with a slightly sheepish one, making you realise that he was probably about to get into trouble with his co-workers once again.
Flickering a quick glance at the front counter, you realise that your assumptions were just about right. The cafe manager seemed to be eyeing him with one raised eyebrow. You can't help but laugh softly once again, turning back to look at him with a similar expression that mimicked the one his manager had.
As he pulled his gaze away from the front counter to look at you once again, his figure slowly rising from the seat opposite you, you catch a small laugh bubble out from his lips before it was quickly stifled.
He had definitely noticed you mimicking his manager's facial expressions, and somehow, the way it had made him laugh caused you to feel a surge of warmth in your heart once again.
There was something comforting about the interactions you shared with him, it felt impossible to not long to talk to him again. As soon as you watch his figure disappear back into the kitchen, his manager pulling at his ear slightly while seeming to tell him off, you can't help but feel an indescribable sense of disappointment seep into you.
Though, it wasn't long before a smile was brought to your face once again. His figure soon quickly returned to your table, slipping you a few paper napkins. For a moment, you found yourself slightly confused, especially since you were already packing and ready to go.
At least until you flipped the first paper napkin over, revealing a messily scrawled handwriting written over the paper napkin. There he had written his name and his phone number, with a small message that seemed to say 'Let's be friends!' paired with a simple smiley face.
As you pocket the paper napkin, you turn your gaze towards Shoyo, smiling slightly as he seemed to turn back instinctively as well to catch your gaze. In that brief glance, where both your eyes meet, you can't help but feel your heart skip with excitement.
His simple interaction with you had silently changed everything you thought you knew about yourself. Perhaps, it wouldn't be too bad bumping into someone who attends the same college as you, once in a while. Even if it meant having to make conversation with them, awkward or not.
a/n: if you notice something off about my divider, IGNORE IT. It wasn't meant to be pixellated but I couldn't fix it so I lowk gave up and left it in pixels. anyways another oneshot that has sat in my drafts for who knows how long...it's finally out to see the light...
╭ ❝ You're not one to be a fan of making random small talks with acquaintances you know in your campus...But this silly orange head have to be one of your exceptions, right...? Especially with the way he's somehow making you laugh, even with the smallest remarks....
cw: ooc (probably), modern college au, you can consider yn to be a huge introvert, kind of open ending (feel free to interpret it however you want!), completely written fic, wc: 2.9k
note: this oneshot is inspired by "stay a while" by ejean & niko rain; layout is best viewed in light mode !
The sun was abnormally hot as you stepped out of the campus doors. Lifting a hand to shield your eyes from the merciless rays of sun shining down upon you, you drop your gaze to the ground to see your shadow reflected hard against the pavement.
In moments like this, the easy fix would be a cup of cold matcha latte. You think silently in your head, letting your thoughts run on about a nice glass of matcha latte—the green foamy top, its creamy texture and earthy taste...paired with ice cubes to cool the drink and add onto its refreshing taste.
Before you know it, you find that your footsteps have led you to the front door of your favourite cafe. While it was a cafe close to your campus, it was located deeper down in the alleyway—tucked into a hidden corner of the street—making it comfortably quiet even during peak hours.
It was one of your favourite underrated gems, a study spot that you had been gatekeeping so that you could enjoy its cozy and comfortable atmosphere all to yourself, without having to worry about bumping into one of your classmates and needing to make small talk with them.
Ding Ding!
The bell attached to the front door immediately makes it's familiar ringing noise as you push it open. The smell of freshly grounded coffee beans hits your nostrils as you take a second step. You find your senses rested by the warm environment of the cafe, making a small sigh of relief escape from your lips.
Definitely your type of comfort.
You find your gaze immediately landing on a table buried furthest into the corner of the cafe, even if you had just taken the first step in. It is somewhere far from the door but with a nice window view. Somewhere where you could settle down comfortably, without worrying about anyone intruding into your personal space.
It was your usual spot. One that you always sat at whenever you came to this cafe, unless it was taken by someone else—which rarely happens.
Yet, before you could comfortably tuck yourself into your seat, your peace is rather quickly disturbed by the sound of footsteps pacing towards your direction. Your head jolts up abruptly, eyes widening slightly as you catch the sight of a beaming orange head looking at you—almost too excitedly.
It was strange. This cafe was never one to immediately ask customers for their orders, especially if they had just settled down in their seat. Yet, based on his attire—a pristine white collared blouse, paired with a neat brown apron which had a few lighter stains speckled across it—you could tell he was one of it's staff.
"What would you like to order?"
He started, his voice bright and chirpy, a very much contrast to your surprised and flustered expression. You weren't expecting anyone to approach you so soon, his presence had clearly caught you off guard.
Yet, he seemed to take no notice of that.
Fortunately, before he could continue on, another employee soon rushes up to the both of you. Shooting you a small apologetic look, he quickly drags the orange head away from you, while whispering harshly to him about something you couldn't catch—especially with how quickly they left you.
Taking a small breath, you busy your hands by continuing to set up the table before you—bringing out your tablet and notebook—as you try to recompose yourself. You should've seen it coming. After all, there will always be someone more extroverted than you, who would attempt to intrude your personal bubble. Even if they didn't mean to.
Finally, you bring yourself to press the call button available at the seat, effectively catching the attention of one of the workers available in the cafe. A part of you breaths an audible sound of relief, when you notice it isn't the familiar orange head who was approaching you.
While, you did feel guilty for maybe getting him into a little trouble, considering the way he was hurriedly pulled aside by another one of the stuff, you weren't prepared to be overwhelmed by his bubbly personality once again.
"Can I get the tiramisu cake, along with an iced matcha latte?"
You ask, as soon as the waitress nears your table. You watch as she nods slightly, scribbling your order down quickly into her small notepad—one that each staff was probably given to remember orders made by customers.
"Anything else?"
She continues, tilting her head slightly to the side as she gazes at you gently. Even though she was gazing straight into your eyes, you could feel that her stare seemed to hold a warm and quiet calmness—one that made you feel at ease, no matter how directly she was looking down at you.
Shaking your head gently, you return her warm gaze with a small smile before she walks away. The cafe was quiet enough as per usual, enough to allow you to hear the soft sound of her heels clicking against the wooden floor of the shop as she walks away.
Before you had even noticed, the light that was peeking in through the blinds from the radient afternoon sun was slowly dimming. You could feel the sky slowly darkening as time passed, your bottom starting to get sore and numb from staying long in your seat as well.
Stretching out your hands slightly, you lifted your gaze to catch the orange head staff silently staring at you. As soon as you meet his eyes, you feel your gaze widen slightly in surprise. You hadn't realised he was staring at you, for who knows how long.
Usually, whenever someone was staring at you, you would be able to catch their gaze quickly. Especially, if you were feeling conscious about your surroundings at the current moment. Yet, possibly at this moment, you had been too carried away with the work in front of you to notice him.
You blink slightly, your hand gingerly reaching towards your almost finished cup of iced matcha latte—which was now left with one out of four quarters of the green liquid, with barely any ice visible. No matter what you did, you hadn't dared to lift your gaze off him. Even if it was for a quick moment, for who knew when he might suddenly approach you again.
Slowly, you started to realise your worst fears was coming through, as he slowly made his way towards you. Though, your feel your gaze soften slightly, when you notice the apologetic look on his face.
He didn't come empty handed. With him, he held a small plate which had a piece of strawberry shortcake on it. You couldn't help but feel your mouth water slightly, your gaze now focusing more on the piece of cake than his figure as he neared you.
"I'm sorry about scaring you before!"
He started, a note of apology clear in his voice as he placed the plate of strawberry shortcake on your table gently. He had his head bowed low, as soon as he had placed down the cake, his palms clasped together firmly.
A small laugh bubbles out of your lips before you stifle it quickly. You can't help but find the whole situation amusing. It was the first time a cafe worker had came up to you, so apologetically to apologise about a small mistake they had made. Even offering up a peace offering of some sorts.
Fortunately, or so unfortunately, he seemed to have caught your laugh, causing him to lift his head slightly to peek at your facial expressions with slight curiosity. You watch as he finally straightens up, tilting his head to the side slightly as he continues,
"I don't think I did anything really funny…did I?"
His words cause you to shake your head slightly, a small laugh escaping your lips once again, before you respond back gently. You could feel your lips lift up involuntarily, as you spoke.
"No…It's just….I thought it was kind of silly that you apologised this sincerely, over something that wasn't much of a big deal…"
You pause for a moment, a warm smile forming across your lips as you observe the curiosity that was spelt across his face slowly settle with enlightenment.
"I wasn't expecting this at all. Even the strawberry shortcake."
At the mention of the strawberry shortcake, his gaze seemed to immediately brighten, as though you had made a mention about something he really liked. You watched, with slightly raised brows as his eyes widen slightly, a large grin forming across his face.
"The strawberry shortcake! I hope you like it! I made it myself."
As soon as you heard his words, you pause to take another look at the piece of cake he had placed on your table. You had previously debated in your head before whether the cakes made in this cafe was handmade by the staff or simply bought. It took you three days, before you had finally made up your mind that it was bought.
With that in mind, you could feel another wave of surprise hit you, before you dig your fork into the slice of cake carefully. Based on the way your fork sliced through the cake neatly, you could tell the texture of it is extremely soft. That was exactly the style you liked your cakes to be.
As you lift the small piece of cake that you had cutout with your fork to your lips, you could feel him staring intently at you, with what seemed like utmost anticipation and excitement, until you finally swallowed.
"So? How is it?"
He asked you, as soon as you swallow the contents of the cake down. You don't register his question for a moment, taking the time to slowly savour the sweet aftertaste of the strawberry cake, before you look at him again.
"It's great. I wouldn't think it was handmade."
You finally respond, smiling slightly at him as you dig your fork into the cake once again, attempting to cut another small piece of the cake. Maybe you were hungry at this moment, especially after burning quite some of your braincells from revising your notes, but the cake did taste really good.
You weren't expecting much before, even if the slice of cake did look visually appealing, decorated carefully with fresh red strawberries and carefully squeezed whipped cream. After all, a visually appealing food doesn't immediately gurantee a good taste. Yet, this slice of cake seemed to meet your expectations in both aspects.
Bringing your gaze away from the slice of cake, you catch another large grin spread across his face once again. Somehow, that smile on your face seem to make your insides feel warm as well. There wasn't anything remotely special about his smile, yet you could feel a part of his warmth and joy being passed to you.
"Really? You think that way?"
He asks excitedly, as he seemed to bounce back and forth on the heel of his feet for a moment. He was practically brimming with uncontainable excitement, you can't help but let out another soft laugh watching him.
Nodding slightly, you watch as you feel his gaze twinkle back into yours. There was something about his gaze that made you feel like showering him with more compliments, until there was nothing possible left to say regarding the slice of cake he made.
Maybe it was because of how expressive he seemed to get at your every word. You hadn't met someone this expressive before, with a face that allowed you to read every single emotion of his based on his expression. It made you feel like your words was something special, something that held impact towards him.
Slowly, he scoots his way towards the seat opposite you, gesturing towards it as he asked you softly,
"Do you mind if I sit here for a while?"
You shook your head slightly at his words, smiling slightly as you gestured for him to take a seat. It almost surprised you with how fast you seemed to have responded to his question. Usually, you would hesitate for a moment before you allowed someone to share a table with you—especially if it was someone you just started talking to a few moments ago.
Yet, there was something about him that made it easy for you to warm up towards him. He seemed to make every word and smile that escaped your lips easy, something that was different from the usual conversations you had—where smiles had to be plastered on your face, so that you didn't look intimidating or cold to the other, and every word was overthought before it came out.
He nodded gently towards the notebook that you had on the table, guiding your attention towards your handwritten notes which you had neatly documented in your notebook with his head, before he asked with curiosity in his voice.
"Are you perhaps studying in the college nearby? The notebook looks like the one they gave us during the orientation package."
At his words, your heart skipped a beat. You widen your eyes slightly, before you nod slightly, closing the notebook gently to reveal the cover. There it was, on the cover, the name of your college—which potentially, was where he was studying at as well.
As soon as he caught a glimspe of the cover of your notebook, a gleam of excitement met his gaze once again. His fingers drummed on the table surface excitedly, before he continued, a smile tugging at his lips once again.
"Which major— No! Wait let me guess!"
You placed a hand over your lips to stop a soft laugh from escaping your lips once again, a part of you finding it adorable that he was stumbling over his words in excitement. You can't help but feel a slight sense of anticipation fill you, as you watch him consider over his options thoughtfully.
His brows were slightly scunched up, in deep concentration, as he studied your appearance and the items you had laid out on the table for a moment. There was something about the way he seemed to consider deeply before making a rash guess that made you almost intrigued.
"I'm guessing…"
He starts, his voice slightly trailing off as he takes a final glance at you before continuing. You could feel your heart drumming with slight anticipating as you await his next few words.
"…You're a biology major!"
Before you could even answer if he had made an accurate guess, your expression seemed to have given the answer away, as a look of pride and satisfaction was immediately brought to his face.
"I knew it! Your notes seemed content heavy, so I made a rough guess!"
He exclaimed excitedly, the small proud smile not disappearing from his lips as he clapped his hands together. You find yourself sharing sentiments of his joy and pride as you look at him, your heart swelling with happiness.
Yet, before you could ask him back what his major was, you catch the way his gaze seemed to have now drifted towards the front counter of the shop. His proud smile was now replaced with a slightly sheepish one, making you realise that he was probably about to get into trouble with his co-workers once again.
Flickering a quick glance at the front counter, you realise that your assumptions were just about right. The cafe manager seemed to be eyeing him with one raised eyebrow. You can't help but laugh softly once again, turning back to look at him with a similar expression that mimicked the one his manager had.
As he pulled his gaze away from the front counter to look at you once again, his figure slowly rising from the seat opposite you, you catch a small laugh bubble out from his lips before it was quickly stifled.
He had definitely noticed you mimicking his manager's facial expressions, and somehow, the way it had made him laugh caused you to feel a surge of warmth in your heart once again.
There was something comforting about the interactions you shared with him, it felt impossible to not long to talk to him again. As soon as you watch his figure disappear back into the kitchen, his manager pulling at his ear slightly while seeming to tell him off, you can't help but feel an indescribable sense of disappointment seep into you.
Though, it wasn't long before a smile was brought to your face once again. His figure soon quickly returned to your table, slipping you a few paper napkins. For a moment, you found yourself slightly confused, especially since you were already packing and ready to go.
At least until you flipped the first paper napkin over, revealing a messily scrawled handwriting written over the paper napkin. There he had written his name and his phone number, with a small message that seemed to say 'Let's be friends!' paired with a simple smiley face.
As you pocket the paper napkin, you turn your gaze towards Shoyo, smiling slightly as he seemed to turn back instinctively as well to catch your gaze. In that brief glance, where both your eyes meet, you can't help but feel your heart skip with excitement.
His simple interaction with you had silently changed everything you thought you knew about yourself. Perhaps, it wouldn't be too bad bumping into someone who attends the same college as you, once in a while. Even if it meant having to make conversation with them, awkward or not.
a/n: if you notice something off about my divider, IGNORE IT. It wasn't meant to be pixellated but I couldn't fix it so I lowk gave up and left it in pixels. anyways another oneshot that has sat in my drafts for who knows how long...it's finally out to see the light...
╭ ❝ You find yourself getting stood up by a date that you were extremely excited for. In attempt to lift your spirits, your best friend, Shoyo, insists on bringing you somewhere to hang out.
cw: hurt/comfort, half written half smau (cos I have a severe addiction to smaus...ouh...), ignore timestamps (i tried to make them time accurate but they js wldnt work), meant to be platonic but like ykw interpret it however you like I guess (heh), wc: 2.1k
a/n: I may be too haikyuu-pilled recently so... anyways this is a fic submitted under d1strict99's ongoing event (platonic prompt 3) do check out all the other works done by amazing authors in the community !!
You could feel the back of your feet start to ache as you continue to stand along the pavement, your gaze actively searching for an approaching figure—one that might look like they're in a hurry.
Yet, all the people who seemed to be approaching your direction barely even flicked their gaze towards you, passing you by without a second glance. Clearly, they weren't the one you were looking for.
It didn't even seem like whoever you were looking for was coming anytime soon. However, your stubborn mind continued to stand admist the busy street—hopelessly waiting. Even if your heart dropped each time someone new had walked past you, each time you turned on your phone to realise another minute has passed.
The feeling of your newly bought heels biting into your heel, as each second went by, wasn't helping either. You only found yourself starting to regret wearing these heels today, especially since you've never worn them anywhere else before.
After all, one would always warn another to never wear new shoes if you knew you would be standing up more than sitting. Unless, you wanted fresh cuts along the heel of your feet. But it wasn't like you knew you were going to be standing for this long anyway. What of a cafe date consisted of standing along the pavement, outside the cafe, for what seemed like hours?
Heaving a small sigh, you kick a small pebble across the street, for it to skid across the pavement before getting lost among the crowd of people walking past you. Perhaps, the person you had arranged to meet with wasn't gonna show up today—their plans with you lost, just as that pebble you had sent flying down the street.
Such a realisation, however, hurt more than to admit. Especially after you had put in extra effort to look pretty for today's date. You weren't one to usually take a shower before heading out, especially since you would definitely get sweaty from the warm sun outside again. Yet, you did exactly that.
You took a shower before heading out, making sure to shampoo your hair with a specific bottle of floral scented shampoo—one with a scent that wasn't too strong to make your head smell like a whole garden, but enough to make one know you had put in effort to groom it.
You also spent an aggrevating amount of time before the closet, mixing and matching different pieces of your best clothes together, hoping to pull off an outfit that would look simple, but beautiful enough for someone to want to take a second glance at it. It irritated you more when you remembered that you had left your room in a mess before heading out, since you were worried that now you were gonna be late.
Your clothes were still strewn everywhere in your room, not even folded and tucked somewhere into the corner of the room hastily—something you would've done usually if you were simply too lazy to get all your clothes organised neatly back into your closet.
And all because you would never want to be caught being late, with the reason lying with how you were fretting over a perfect outfit to pull together for this date. Though, look at how the tables had turned. Now, you were extremely early—early enough to find that you are now standing and waiting for your date for almost the whole afternoon now.
You thought this date might be different from the others. He seemed genuinely interested in you, from the way he responded to your texts and asked follow up questions, like he was interested in you. It was unlike those guys you had previously texted with, where they would reply with dry responses, unless you finally started talking about going on a date with them.
Additionally, your interests aligned with his too. You could stay up the full night, just staring at your phone and smiling while still exchanging texts with him. The change of the sky turning from dusk to dawn not even evident to you, until he had made a mere mention at the time.
Heaving a small sigh, you reach for your phone that you had stuck deep into your handbag previously—something that you had done in attempt to stop negative thoughts from surfacing in your mind, while you stared at the numerical digits change from 0 to 9 repeatedly.
The attempts ended up being futile anyway. Those negative thoughts are starting to consume you inside out, along with the truth that he was probably never going to show up getting inevidently clearer and clearer to you. Even if you never stared at anything that reminded you of how much time you were wasting—simply standing around, waiting for someone who clearly wasn't going to show up.
Shoyo didn't make you wait long at the beach. The sun had barely started to set when he had arrived, his signature bright smile worn across his face as he met your gaze. He parts open his lips, almost as if to say something between pants, only to hold it as you lift a hand to stop him.
"Catch a breath first, Sho."
You respond simply, a small smile tugging along your lips as you watch him lift the back of his hand to wipe the beads of sweat trickling down from his forehead. Even if the sweat droplets were from the volleyball practice he had before, you could still tell that he had ran here, just to meet you.
"Did you wait long, Yn?"
He finally starts, as his breaths slow slightly. He plops his figure down next to you on the stone bench, his gaze shifting from yours to gaze at the sight of seawater clashing with the soft white sand, before the two of you.
"Nope. Even if you did, I was too caught up with the sight before me to realise much time has passed."
You smile slightly, turning your head to gesture towards the beautiful patches of orange that was starting to paint itself over the dull blue sky with your gaze. This was the most perfect hour to be at the beach, when the sun is about to set and the air isn't freezing with a chilly night breeze.
"That's a relief. It would be a horror if I made you wait long, especially after a terrible date."
Shoyo responded, a small laugh elicited from his throat. You could feel your gaze drawn from the sky to look over towards him, a small smile forming across your lips as you meet his gaze. In usual cases, you would have pegged at him for bringing up your horrible date once again, but not this time.
Not when he was smiling so brightly, enough to wipe away all the sadness that had lingered in your heart before—still silently loathing the guy who stood you up. There was always something about Shoyo's smile that made it hard for you to get upset or mad at him.
"We both know you're not the type to make another person wait long anyway. If you took a long time to show up, I think I would be more worried about whether you got into an accident along the way."
You say, between a small laugh.
Shoyo was never the type to make you wait, even if he had an event planned before your hangouts. He would always make sure he reached the planned location at least on the dot, if not early. The only person who would make the other wait between the both of you, was yourself. Especially since you were a mess when it came to time management.
Maybe that was why you started having a habit of expecting your dates to never come late. Or even if they were late, they had to have a particularly good reason for doing so. After all, if your own guy best friend was able to show up early or on time, it wouldn't be wrong for you to expect the same from someone who's interested in you.
But that was a matter to put aside now. You thought, reaching down to your feet as you removed the heels you were wearing carefully. You could feel a slight crease form against your eyebrows as you caught a glimspe of the scrapes on your heel.
Thankfully, it wasn't too bad, but you knew that it meant you couldn't run into the seawater today—unless you wanted a stinging sensation to linger against your wound.
"Here."
Shoyo started, his voice bringing you out of your thoughts. You hadn't even realised you were staring at the scrapes against your heel so intensely before, until you brought your gaze to meet his once again.
He had stretched a hand out to you, where in between his fingers held a handiplast. He had probably noticed the scrapes on your feet, while you were staring at it. Perhaps, he could even guess that you were mildly disappointed at the fact that you couldn't run into the seawater either with such a scrape.
After all, he probably knew how much you liked the sea at the beach. It was your favourite thing about the beach, second to sunsets. You liked the feeling of its cool waters pushing past your ankle, and you would often get into the waters to find beautiful seashells too. It was where all the beautiful designs are hidden at, you once claimed, while holding a handful of wet seashells.
"Thank you."
You replied meekly, the crease between your eyebrows fading slightly as you took the handiplast from his hands.
"You should've told me earlier. I always have a bunch in my bag, because of volleyball."
He continues, a proud smile forming across his face—one that made you laugh slightly, thinking about how ridiculously proud of himself he had seemed in that moment.
"Don't be so proud silly, this isn't much of an achievement."
You responded back, stiffling short laughs as you revealed the adhesive side of the plaster, pasting it carefully against your wound. In your peripheral vision, you could see Shoyo shake his head, in a way that seemed to say 'you don't get it' even if he didn't voice it out audibly.
"It is an achievement, if you think about it. I was able to bless you with something you desperately needed. I could be considered a savior, you know."
He proceeds, the smile still sitting on his lips as he stands up from the bench. Crossing his arms over his chest, he gazed at you with a look that seemed determined to make you agree with him.
Only Shoyo would be proud of himself in moments like this, when he had items others needed but didn't have. To him, anything was worthy of being an achievement. Something commendable, something special, or even something silly.
"Alright fine. You're such a savior, Sho. I needed that plaster desperately."
You respond, heaving a small sigh of defeat as you gaze at him. You watch as the light in his eyes seem to brighten, the smile he wore stretching wider across his face. That sight was enough to cause the corner of your lips to lift, even if it's just slightly.
"Great! Let's play beach volleyball now! I'm feeling super pumped! I think I can make a hundred sucessful spikes today!"
His voice sounded chirply, above the silent atmospheric sounds around the both of you—the sound of birds cooing as they flew past the orange sky, the peaceful crashing of waves and the sound of Shoyo's footsteps against the sand as he skipped towards an open area of the beach.
Of course he would suggest playing beach volleyball. He even brought a volleyball here. You can't help but scoff slightly, standing up from the bench on your barefeet. You immediately follow after him, before his tiny figure got further into the distance.
"Go softer on me, won't you? Remember I scrapped my feet!"
You call out after him. You could feel that your heart was definitely much lighter before. Even if you scrapped your feet from the heels you were wearing. Even if you made sure to put in effort to dress nicely, only to end up getting sand all over your clothes, playing volleyball at the beach.
Even if you got stood up by your date today.
All because Shoyo bothered to show up and cheer you up. Maybe he was much like a savior than the both of you had expected. Even if he didn't bring a plaster today, that could patch up the wounds on your feet, he would've still been a savior to you.
For he had brought another plaster. One that was a little different from a physical plaster. One that managed to patch up the wounds in your heart.
additional a/n: the funniest thing behind the making of this was probably the fact that I know someone named Kenji in real life (but I couldn't think of another name) so I lowkey based their texting style off them HSHSH (hope they never find this...😭😭)
╭ ❝ You find yourself getting stood up by a date that you were extremely excited for. In attempt to lift your spirits, your best friend, Shoyo, insists on bringing you somewhere to hang out.
cw: hurt/comfort, half written half smau (cos I have a severe addiction to smaus...ouh...), ignore timestamps (i tried to make them time accurate but they js wldnt work), meant to be platonic but like ykw interpret it however you like I guess (heh), wc: 2.1k
a/n: I may be too haikyuu-pilled recently so... anyways this is a fic submitted under d1strict99's ongoing event (platonic prompt 3) do check out all the other works done by amazing authors in the community !!
You could feel the back of your feet start to ache as you continue to stand along the pavement, your gaze actively searching for an approaching figure—one that might look like they're in a hurry.
Yet, all the people who seemed to be approaching your direction barely even flicked their gaze towards you, passing you by without a second glance. Clearly, they weren't the one you were looking for.
It didn't even seem like whoever you were looking for was coming anytime soon. However, your stubborn mind continued to stand admist the busy street—hopelessly waiting. Even if your heart dropped each time someone new had walked past you, each time you turned on your phone to realise another minute has passed.
The feeling of your newly bought heels biting into your heel, as each second went by, wasn't helping either. You only found yourself starting to regret wearing these heels today, especially since you've never worn them anywhere else before.
After all, one would always warn another to never wear new shoes if you knew you would be standing up more than sitting. Unless, you wanted fresh cuts along the heel of your feet. But it wasn't like you knew you were going to be standing for this long anyway. What of a cafe date consisted of standing along the pavement, outside the cafe, for what seemed like hours?
Heaving a small sigh, you kick a small pebble across the street, for it to skid across the pavement before getting lost among the crowd of people walking past you. Perhaps, the person you had arranged to meet with wasn't gonna show up today—their plans with you lost, just as that pebble you had sent flying down the street.
Such a realisation, however, hurt more than to admit. Especially after you had put in extra effort to look pretty for today's date. You weren't one to usually take a shower before heading out, especially since you would definitely get sweaty from the warm sun outside again. Yet, you did exactly that.
You took a shower before heading out, making sure to shampoo your hair with a specific bottle of floral scented shampoo—one with a scent that wasn't too strong to make your head smell like a whole garden, but enough to make one know you had put in effort to groom it.
You also spent an aggrevating amount of time before the closet, mixing and matching different pieces of your best clothes together, hoping to pull off an outfit that would look simple, but beautiful enough for someone to want to take a second glance at it. It irritated you more when you remembered that you had left your room in a mess before heading out, since you were worried that now you were gonna be late.
Your clothes were still strewn everywhere in your room, not even folded and tucked somewhere into the corner of the room hastily—something you would've done usually if you were simply too lazy to get all your clothes organised neatly back into your closet.
And all because you would never want to be caught being late, with the reason lying with how you were fretting over a perfect outfit to pull together for this date. Though, look at how the tables had turned. Now, you were extremely early—early enough to find that you are now standing and waiting for your date for almost the whole afternoon now.
You thought this date might be different from the others. He seemed genuinely interested in you, from the way he responded to your texts and asked follow up questions, like he was interested in you. It was unlike those guys you had previously texted with, where they would reply with dry responses, unless you finally started talking about going on a date with them.
Additionally, your interests aligned with his too. You could stay up the full night, just staring at your phone and smiling while still exchanging texts with him. The change of the sky turning from dusk to dawn not even evident to you, until he had made a mere mention at the time.
Heaving a small sigh, you reach for your phone that you had stuck deep into your handbag previously—something that you had done in attempt to stop negative thoughts from surfacing in your mind, while you stared at the numerical digits change from 0 to 9 repeatedly.
The attempts ended up being futile anyway. Those negative thoughts are starting to consume you inside out, along with the truth that he was probably never going to show up getting inevidently clearer and clearer to you. Even if you never stared at anything that reminded you of how much time you were wasting—simply standing around, waiting for someone who clearly wasn't going to show up.
Shoyo didn't make you wait long at the beach. The sun had barely started to set when he had arrived, his signature bright smile worn across his face as he met your gaze. He parts open his lips, almost as if to say something between pants, only to hold it as you lift a hand to stop him.
"Catch a breath first, Sho."
You respond simply, a small smile tugging along your lips as you watch him lift the back of his hand to wipe the beads of sweat trickling down from his forehead. Even if the sweat droplets were from the volleyball practice he had before, you could still tell that he had ran here, just to meet you.
"Did you wait long, Yn?"
He finally starts, as his breaths slow slightly. He plops his figure down next to you on the stone bench, his gaze shifting from yours to gaze at the sight of seawater clashing with the soft white sand, before the two of you.
"Nope. Even if you did, I was too caught up with the sight before me to realise much time has passed."
You smile slightly, turning your head to gesture towards the beautiful patches of orange that was starting to paint itself over the dull blue sky with your gaze. This was the most perfect hour to be at the beach, when the sun is about to set and the air isn't freezing with a chilly night breeze.
"That's a relief. It would be a horror if I made you wait long, especially after a terrible date."
Shoyo responded, a small laugh elicited from his throat. You could feel your gaze drawn from the sky to look over towards him, a small smile forming across your lips as you meet his gaze. In usual cases, you would have pegged at him for bringing up your horrible date once again, but not this time.
Not when he was smiling so brightly, enough to wipe away all the sadness that had lingered in your heart before—still silently loathing the guy who stood you up. There was always something about Shoyo's smile that made it hard for you to get upset or mad at him.
"We both know you're not the type to make another person wait long anyway. If you took a long time to show up, I think I would be more worried about whether you got into an accident along the way."
You say, between a small laugh.
Shoyo was never the type to make you wait, even if he had an event planned before your hangouts. He would always make sure he reached the planned location at least on the dot, if not early. The only person who would make the other wait between the both of you, was yourself. Especially since you were a mess when it came to time management.
Maybe that was why you started having a habit of expecting your dates to never come late. Or even if they were late, they had to have a particularly good reason for doing so. After all, if your own guy best friend was able to show up early or on time, it wouldn't be wrong for you to expect the same from someone who's interested in you.
But that was a matter to put aside now. You thought, reaching down to your feet as you removed the heels you were wearing carefully. You could feel a slight crease form against your eyebrows as you caught a glimspe of the scrapes on your heel.
Thankfully, it wasn't too bad, but you knew that it meant you couldn't run into the seawater today—unless you wanted a stinging sensation to linger against your wound.
"Here."
Shoyo started, his voice bringing you out of your thoughts. You hadn't even realised you were staring at the scrapes against your heel so intensely before, until you brought your gaze to meet his once again.
He had stretched a hand out to you, where in between his fingers held a handiplast. He had probably noticed the scrapes on your feet, while you were staring at it. Perhaps, he could even guess that you were mildly disappointed at the fact that you couldn't run into the seawater either with such a scrape.
After all, he probably knew how much you liked the sea at the beach. It was your favourite thing about the beach, second to sunsets. You liked the feeling of its cool waters pushing past your ankle, and you would often get into the waters to find beautiful seashells too. It was where all the beautiful designs are hidden at, you once claimed, while holding a handful of wet seashells.
"Thank you."
You replied meekly, the crease between your eyebrows fading slightly as you took the handiplast from his hands.
"You should've told me earlier. I always have a bunch in my bag, because of volleyball."
He continues, a proud smile forming across his face—one that made you laugh slightly, thinking about how ridiculously proud of himself he had seemed in that moment.
"Don't be so proud silly, this isn't much of an achievement."
You responded back, stiffling short laughs as you revealed the adhesive side of the plaster, pasting it carefully against your wound. In your peripheral vision, you could see Shoyo shake his head, in a way that seemed to say 'you don't get it' even if he didn't voice it out audibly.
"It is an achievement, if you think about it. I was able to bless you with something you desperately needed. I could be considered a savior, you know."
He proceeds, the smile still sitting on his lips as he stands up from the bench. Crossing his arms over his chest, he gazed at you with a look that seemed determined to make you agree with him.
Only Shoyo would be proud of himself in moments like this, when he had items others needed but didn't have. To him, anything was worthy of being an achievement. Something commendable, something special, or even something silly.
"Alright fine. You're such a savior, Sho. I needed that plaster desperately."
You respond, heaving a small sigh of defeat as you gaze at him. You watch as the light in his eyes seem to brighten, the smile he wore stretching wider across his face. That sight was enough to cause the corner of your lips to lift, even if it's just slightly.
"Great! Let's play beach volleyball now! I'm feeling super pumped! I think I can make a hundred sucessful spikes today!"
His voice sounded chirply, above the silent atmospheric sounds around the both of you—the sound of birds cooing as they flew past the orange sky, the peaceful crashing of waves and the sound of Shoyo's footsteps against the sand as he skipped towards an open area of the beach.
Of course he would suggest playing beach volleyball. He even brought a volleyball here. You can't help but scoff slightly, standing up from the bench on your barefeet. You immediately follow after him, before his tiny figure got further into the distance.
"Go softer on me, won't you? Remember I scrapped my feet!"
You call out after him. You could feel that your heart was definitely much lighter before. Even if you scrapped your feet from the heels you were wearing. Even if you made sure to put in effort to dress nicely, only to end up getting sand all over your clothes, playing volleyball at the beach.
Even if you got stood up by your date today.
All because Shoyo bothered to show up and cheer you up. Maybe he was much like a savior than the both of you had expected. Even if he didn't bring a plaster today, that could patch up the wounds on your feet, he would've still been a savior to you.
For he had brought another plaster. One that was a little different from a physical plaster. One that managed to patch up the wounds in your heart.
additional a/n: the funniest thing behind the making of this was probably the fact that I know someone named Kenji in real life (but I couldn't think of another name) so I lowkey based their texting style off them HSHSH (hope they never find this...😭😭)
I MISS YOU, PLEASE DON'T CALL
— a hinata shoyo x f!reader oneshot
╭ ❝ stuck in brazil, shoyo starts to realise he misses home—and very much, you. but coming to brazil meant breaking up with you. you're no longer his to call, to text and to miss.
cw: probably ooc, completely written fic, post timeskip au (brazil shoyo), angst (paired with a small side serving of hurt/comfort), layout best viewed in light mode, wc: 1.3k
Cradling his legs to his stomach, Shoyo sat on the soft sand, his gaze staring out towards the distance. He could feel the warmth of the sun radiating off his skin, leaving a slight burning sensation. Yet, despite that, he made no effort to move into a shadier area.
Brazil was beautiful. It was exactly like he imagined.
It was harder to feel cold here, even without the layers. Especially when it felt like he was baked under the sun half the time. The sight of beaches weren't rare either. In fact, it felt like more area on land was occupied by soft crumbling sand.
Though, it felt like something was amiss, like a lack of true happiness and warmth in his heart.
Sure, Brazil was lively. There was never a moment where laughter wasn't heard. In fact, it was much livelier than Japan, which had its own silent and peaceful moments. Moments where the streets would get extremely quiet and nights could get lonely, you could even hear the sound of a cat chasing a mouse among the bushes.
But, no matter where he looked, whether was it the stunning view of sunlight glistening along the surface of seawater or the sight of people gathered together to play volleyball—something Shoyo had always found exciting—it never seemed to truly lift his spirits.
Maybe it was because he knew that he was silently missing Japan. Or more specifically, you, who he had left behind in Japan in order to finally get here.
You would have loved it here.
He thought, a small solemn smile forming across his lips as he threw back his head. Lifting a small hand to shield his eyes from the bright rays of the sun, he let his eyes drift to the azure blue sky.
You had always talked about going to the beach, each time with a big smile—one that Shoyo could never forget. After all, whenever you talked about the beach—whether it was anticipating the feeling of the cold seawater reaching your ankles, or the ticklish feeling of soft sand filling between the gaps of your toes—you had always mentioned it with a smile one would give after sucessfully reaching their goals.
To you, maybe visiting the beach was one of your lifelong goals. To smell the scent of fresh saltwater in your nostrils, to wear the most prettiest and flowiest sundresses and to build beautiful sandcastles.
Yet, now here he was, sitting along the shore all alone.
There was laughter in the distance, the sound of someone yelling something unfamiliar in their native tongue and the noise of waves constantly crashing onto the shore. However, all Shoyo could think about was you.
You with your beautiful bright smile, a hand on a summer beach hat which you had made him buy from one of the stands close to the beach, as you wave him over to the seawater.
Your laughter would've drowned out all the noise around him, especially since it was one of the most radient laughs Shoyo sworn he could've heard. You always laughed like there was no tomorrow.
Even on that day when he told you he was choosing Brazil over you. He had expected your smile to drop instantly. After all, you had always told him you would break up with him, if he decided to go Brazil.
Not because you feared long distance, but because you didn't want to hold him back from his career. If Shoyo wanted to live in Brazil and further his career, you wouldn't be able to follow him. Not when you had built an entire life in Japan, one that you weren't willing to leave behind so soon. The last thing you wanted was for Shoyo to never consider becoming a permanent resident in Brazil, just for you.
Especially if becoming a permanent resident meant being better in volleyball, and gaining more opportunities and experiences than he can have in Japan.
But on that day, you had given him the biggest smile as you took the final sips of your milkshake, encouraging him to chase after his dreams. Shoyo never knew that the same smile that made his heart skip, was capable of hurting him as well.
At least until that day.
It was ironic. Shoyo would never have considered that he would be regretting his choice about coming to Brazil, because it meant leaving you behind. He had always thought volleyball meant the world to him.
Whenever someone asked him about his goals or his passions, he had always talked about volleyball. With that silly smile, as you would say. His life always seemed to revolve around volleyball, never anything else.
Yet, now as he sat on the sandy floor, all he could think about was you.
How you had slowly shaped to become part of his world. Perhaps, slowly, without the both of you realising, you had slowly became an essential to him.
It wasn't just volleyball anymore.
It was you. Your sheepish smiles whenever he caught you in the middle of something suspicious, like that time when you tried to sneak up on his sleeping figure and doodle a silly face on the right side of his cheek. Your little twirls that you would do every time he asked you to show off your outfit. Your beautiful and airy laughter whenever he made a joke, no matter whether it was funny or not.
Your every move and every expression was something he couldn't find himself to forget, just like how he couldn't forget every volleyball move.
Heaving a small sigh, Shoyo brought the back of his hand to his forehead, wiping off sweat lazily. In moments like this, you would've given him your handkerchief, nagging at him about how his hand was probably dirty and he shouldn't touch anywhere close his face with his bare hands.
Yet, you aren't here to tell him all this. You weren't here to nag at him or tell him off for the little bad habits he had. He had to find a way to keep growing and improving, even if it meant being without you.
Standing up, Shoyo dusted the back of his pants quickly, making sure sand was no longer sticking to the fabric. Forcing a small smile on his face, Shoyo tried to picture you, tugging at his hand to approach one of the people who were playing beach volleyball right now.
"Ask them! Ask them if you can join."
He imagined you saying, as you continued to tug on his hand. Slowly, he found his footsteps inching close to a group of people. They were playing beach volleyball among themselves, smiles sprawled across their lips.
Though, he could tell they were missing a player. He knew he could fill in for them.
Turning around, he looked for you—or the fragment of you that he had imagined, standing somewhere along the beach staring at him. And there you were, standing behind him, giving him a sure nod.
"Join them, Shoyo! It will be fun!"
You had told him softly, while giving him a gentle but firm push on his back. He could feel his heart skipping a beat, his hands clenched with determination as he took a sharp breath, allowing you to push him forward—closer to the group of people playing beach volleyball.
Of course you would've encouraged him. If you were truly here, you wouldn't have just pushed him to play with others. You may even start begging on his behalf to allow him to join them in their games, even if they had enough players. You would never want him to be sitting around, wishing to be back in Japan.
Finally, he turned his gaze back towards the group, his mouth parting open. His gaze finally burned with the same determination that it had when he first landed on Brazil. He had to stop missing you somehow, but learn to miss the aching feeling of his arms after volleyball.
While, you wouldn't always be his world. He could make you a part of his world, alongside with volleyball—which would be his true world.
"Can I join y'all? In beach volleyball?"
a/n: this was actually some really random idea that popped up into my head at 2am after I watched an edit on timeskip shoyo LOL... (his brazil days may forever haunt me because it's one of his saddest but proudest moments frfr🥹🥹) I'm worried this seems a bit rushed ngl but I hope y'all enjoyed !!
╭ ❝ You've had a crush on Osamu for the longest time. After hearing that he broke up with his ex, you thought that maybe you'd score a chance now. However, your hopes are soon met with silence after silence... Is this your call to give up or seek out an answer?
cw: ooc (probably), reader is desperately(?) pining for osamu (me too /j), mentions of alcohol use, fluff (maybe with slight angst mentioned if you squint hard enough), flashbacks included, wc: 3.2k
note: one shot inspired by "call me when you break up" by selena gomez, gracie abrams & benny blanco; layout best viewed in light mode !
Blinking open your eyes, the world seems to swirl around you for a second as you try to sit up—only to realize something is holding you down tight to the bed, making your attempts to get up immediately drop.
Since when did I knock out? You wonder silently as you lift your arm to rub your eyes gently, trying to bring your eyes to concentrate on your room's ceiling.
Wait. Something isn't right.
You think softly as you turn to your left, trying to look for the familiar window pane, framed with your favourite lavender-coloured silk curtains...
But it isn't there...?
"Ya' finally up, hmm?"
A familiar voice suddenly buzzes in your right ear, making you jump slightly as you turn your head immediately to the right—only to get the shock of your life.
"Wha—Osamu?"
You exclaim, surprised, as soon as you come face to face with his sleepy face. It's the first time you've ever seen him like this...
His half-lidded eyes seem to look more tired than usual… almost like they were forcing themselves open so that he could take a good look at you.
Lifting a hand to tuck a few stray strands of your hair behind your ear gently, he looks at you warmly before a small smile cracks across his lips.
"Huh? Don't tell me 'ya forgot 'bout last night?"
His words make you pause for a moment, your eyes widening slightly as panic rises within you. You feel your heartbeat quicken instantly as you scramble nervously to retrace your memories back to last night.
But it's no use. Not when every single bit of your memories from last night was washed down smoothly to a hidden part of your brain, just like the alcohol you drank last night.
All downed in one smooth gulp.
The only thing you could find yourself doing right now was to blink helplessly at Osamu, part of you wishing him being in front of you was just a dream. Or if only he could say something...
Something to convince you nothing that bad happened last night. But the only next pair of words that spill from his lips was,
"That bad, huh?"
And that was enough to make you overthink.
You and Osamu have been childhood friends since young.
Because of how close your two families stayed in the neighbourhood, naturally your parents grew to be best friends and so did y'all.
In fact it was bound to happen.
It was almost inevitable to not talk to him.
Not when he would drop by your house doorstep from time to time delivering food made by the Miya twins' mother. Or when he would mess up your hair slightly by petting your head every time he passed by you, hoping to tease a reaction out of you.
Or when he was the one to stop Atsumu from continuously teasing you, always not failing to notice how affected you would get sometimes from his incessant mischievous remarks. One way or another, he always found a way to be part of your life— whether you liked it or not.
At first you disliked how you couldn't avoid him. Your friends would start asking how you knew someone as good-looking as him, hoping to get some tea out of your lips. Especially when your parents would suddenly put on the role of being your matchmakers, trying to stir things between the two of you.
However, as time passed, you found yourself flinching every time his name was mentioned. Or was it the subtle blush that started appearing on your cheeks every time he smiled at you that made you realise the growing feelings in your heart?
You had no idea.
What you knew though, was that you started liking how involved he would get in your life. His presence no longer felt like a weighing dread but something you constantly hoped would chase after you.
So when he introduced you to his first girlfriend, a part of you tried to be happy for him, although your world seemed to fall apart internally. You can't help but find your everyday routine revolving around a common activity which was to scroll endlessly through Osamu's Instagram page, hoping to find a potential crack in his new relationship.
Even just the slightest hints, like how his girlfriend stopped tagging him in some of her selfies, was enough to make you feel over the moon.
Though, that was three months ago.
The current Osamu was now single and happy. He was now occupied with the successes of his restaurant that he never seemed to take a second glance to look back at you. In fact, he seemed to forget you even more after his break up.
Only making a conversation with you if you were the first to text him or give him a call. He no longer wished you happy birthday or happy valentine's day, unless you posted about it on your Instagram stories. It was as though, he was trying his best to leave a distance between you and him.
So when you stumbled into his onigiri store, all drunk one day, questioning why he never even bothered to give you a call after his break up, it wasn't all too surprising to hear for your sober self.
"Why didn't you call me after your break up?"
You asked Osamu as you stumbled into his store, nudging open the glass door with the side of your hip, immediately meeting Osamu's eyes as you look towards the counter.
"Hm? Whatcha mean, yn?"
He asks you gently, his voice soft with no judgement before he glances up at you to catch a glimpse of your stare, his right hand holding a piece of cloth used to wipe down the counter.
Meeting his clueless glance and the clear confusion in his statement, you can't help but feel your heart drop slightly in disappointment. You feel your body sway from side to side as you shift closer towards him. Your feet shuffle across the floor, the bottom of your shoes barely lifted from the ground as you walk.
"You're asking what I mean?"
You respond back, your words coming out like a soft and slow drawl as you gaze up at him. A small pout forms along your lips as you cross your arms lazily over your chest. Your feet come to an abrupt stop, the movement almost causing you to stumble over, your lips nearly delivering a kiss to the counter standing before you.
For a moment, you wonder if your eyes are deceiving you as you catch a glimpse of Osamu's arms outstretched, ready to catch you before your head hits the counter—only to retract just as quickly.
"Why are you suddenly so distant from me after your break up?"
Osamu's expression seems to slightly change from your words, guilt flickers over his gaze as he releases his grasp on the cloth. He seemed to purposely avoid your gaze for a while, dropping the eye contact both of y'all held.
As soon as he looks away, you feel your fist clench slightly as you feel your eyebrows crease faintly. What did that reaction of his even mean? Was he distancing himself from you purposely all along? As that thought settled into your head, you can't help but feel a slight sting at the bridge of your nose.
You knew that there was clearly a possibility that he was avoiding you on purpose. After all, you didn't used to be that distant. Especially when the both of you had been close childhood friends since young—he wasn't one to not drop a single text to you, even if he was particularly busy.
But why?
Why would he delibrately avoid you?
Deep down, you wanted to brush away this conversation as quickly as possible, pretend you didn't even ask such a question and go back to being "normal." Especially when there was a clear chance his reason might hurt.
But would that moment of hurt matter more than truly not knowing why he was avoiding you? Your logic bites back instantly, causing your mouth to part open once again, the words spilling out of your lips instantaneously before you could hold it back.
"You haven't been initiating any calls or texts...It's always me who does something first."
You continue, a faint edge of bitterness visible in your voice as you try to search Osamu's gaze deeper. You aren't sure what you're searching for but you continue to search deeply in his gaze anyway, your eyes gazing hard into his. Perhaps it's a source of hope that he would stop whatever foolish tricks or mannerisms he's been pulling at you...
"Ya want a glass of water or somethin'?"
He responds instead, his tone a fraction quieter as he gives you a brief light smile.
You grimace slightly at his blunt attempt in trying to avoid your questions, your expression clearly not reciprocating his casual and simple smile.
"Talk to me, Osamu. Please, for goodness sake."
You insist, your fist clenching tighter as you rest it on the counter surface. You feel your gaze bore into Osamu's eyes, silently pleading him to stop steering away from the topic.
“We can have this conversation another time... You're real drunk now, yn."
He says instead—after the minuscule silence that both of y'all shared, one that made your heart drop, seeing the way he constantly shifted his gaze further from yours.
This isn't the response you're hoping for. Your brain reminds you once again before you could settle for a small reluctant nod in response—the kind of conflict avoidant response you've been giving Osamu's actions all this while. Choosing to dismiss the way he no longer texts or calls you first with a simple "he's busy" or "he's still recovering from his break up" excuse. But not today.
A small scoff escapes your lips as you look up at Osamu, your vision spinning slightly as you lift your head to gaze into his eyes too abruptly.
"You think if I am not drunk we would ever have this conversation? I can't even bring myself to confront you without liquor courage..."
You pause for a moment as he suddenly looks back to meet your gaze, startling you slightly when you notice the crease between his eyebrows, a slight vulnerability in his gaze—an expression you never expected to witness from Osamu.
"Hey..I-"
You start, reaching out slightly to brush the crease between his brows, hoping to ease that crease and maybe his pain. Yet before you could do so, he pushes your hand away—the action deliberate yet gentle.
"Don't."
You pause, your whole body stilling as you hear the seriousness in his voice. There seemed to be a hint of remorse behind his words, yet it could be just your drunk ass playing tricks at you again.
"Don't what? I can't even care about you anymore now?"
You start instead, your mouth running words you know you don't mean. Those definitely weren't the words you meant to say, yet they came out quicker than the actual words twisted deep in your throat—words that meant to show your concern, not your desperation hidden behind your mild annoyance.
"You make me feel so stupid staying up late into the night, just expecting a simple text from you. And the excuses I've made up in my head for all the times you never texted, even when I had expected something, they're all starting to run dry."
A crack in your voice was evident as you spoke, your head vividly recounting those nights where you laid sprawled in your bed waiting for a simple text from him. You would have stayed up until the face mask you had laid over your face was turning dry back then. Yet, there wouldn't be a single text bubble popping up from your screen.
All you could see was the last reply he had given you from your last message. His profile picture which was a photo of a plate of signature onigiris sold in his store. Even if his status showed that he was online.
At that moment, anyone would have given up. Wasn't it clear that you probably no longer held a place in his heart? Yet, you still held onto every bit of hope your heart could offer—excuses coming after excuses, until they got almost unbelievable.
"I hated myself for being that pathetic. To even anticipate a message from you like before."
You breathed out the words, your eyes dropping to the counter which was the only thing that set distance between the both of you. You could feel your heart drumming in your chest erratically, your emotions were baring themselves to him faster than your brain could process.
Before you could hold back your lips from saying words that you would definitely beat yourself over for saying tomorrow, your lips gave way to the last bit of liquid courage you had.
"But I hated myself more for still hopelessly loving you, even when it was clear you never cared for me anymore."
As soon as those words left your lips, you felt your gaze drop quickly from the counter to the floor. Your gaze could only land on any possible area that would be further from his gaze.
Even if your curiosity begged you to lift your head and take a quick glimpse at his face, to see what kind of reaction he would have to your words, you couldn't dare to. Your liquid courage had reached it's limits and every part of you felt that meeting his gaze now would only make you regret those words of yours.
Even before you became sober and aware of the possible consequences your words.
"Yn."
Osamu began, his voice breaking the silence that you didn't even realise had fallen between the both of you. You could feel your breath hitch, just the slightest bit, as the sound of his lips parting could be heard once again.
"I'm sorry. I know. I know I shouldn't have said that."
You start immediately, your feet taking a step back as you turn your face away from him. If your vision before was terrible, it had became worse now. The ground beneath your feet seem to swirl, ready to swallow you whole.
And maybe you would let it. If it could let you escape this remorse of yours.
Yet, before you could even take another step away, further from Osamu, his hand suddenly wrapped tightly around your forearm.His hands felt warm against your forearm, really warm in fact. Even the fabric of your shirt that separated his palm from directly meeting the skin of your forearm couldn't prevent the warm tingling feeling that he had send straight into your body.
"Geez, you won't even let me speak, huh?"
His voice echoes into the empty store once again. You hate how he immediately gains your attention just with the sound of his voice, his words cutting straight through your thoughts.
As if the situation couldn't get worse, his freehand soon rests on the bottom of your chin, tilting your head to meet his gaze gently. Even if you wanted to keep your gaze firmly turned away from him, the way his eyes stared into yours made it almost impossible.
If he knew the effect his gaze had on you, he was definitely teasing you with his gaze right now. Especially when his eyes burned with such tenderness, one that you've only seen him stare at his ex with.
Back then, even though it wasn't a gaze directed towards you, your heart immediately softened towards him. To think that he was using this gaze of his on you, it almost felt like a fever dream.
"It's not that I didn't care for you."
He said finally, his tone laced with slight guilt as he pulls away from resting his hand on your chin.
"Rather, I cared so much about you, that I felt like I would be a bother if I ever let myself be true to my feelings towards you. Especially after just ending a relationship with someone else."
A small scoff escapes your lips, your gaze boring straight into his as you make a thoughtless comment softly.
"Why would you be a bother? I sound more like the bother right now, don't I?"
You weren't even expecting much of a reaction from Osamu, yet his eyebrows seemed to quirk in annoyance as he heard your words.
"You would never be a bother to me."
His tone was sharp and clear, his words cutting through the soft awkward laugh that was about to leave your lips. You find your eyes looking into his once again, searching for that look that told you he said that only to stop you from thinking negatively. Yet, your search was futile. You found yourself realising the opposite from his gaze.
"I just meant, you mean a lot to me. I didn't realise it before but I know it's true now."
He continues, his words making your breath catch in your throat slightly. If you were planning on brushing his words away then, to play it off and make it less serious than he intended, you couldn't now.
Not when his words matched that sincere gaze of his.
"And maybe it's a lot more than just a friend…"
He added on suddenly, his words almost inaudible as he continued. You could spot the small tinge of red that lined the tips of his ears as he takes off his black cap, running a quick hand through his short black hair quickly.
"What…?"
You start softly, almost in disbelief as you blink once at Osamu.
"I love you, Yn. More than friends or whatever…"
He explains once again, a soft laugh escaping his lips as he gazes deep into your eyes. You could feel your heart skip once at his words and the way his laugh revebrates into your ears.
Before you could even let you second guess his words, his grasp on your forearm tugs you closer to his figure gently. His other hand finds the bottom of your chin easily, almost as if he memorised the position from that simple touch before, angling your face towards his. Finally, before you could even react, he leans over the counter to close the distance between your lips.
"Do you believe me now?"
He speaks against your lips, kissing you softly once again, before pulling away slowly. One brow of his was lifted slightly, seeming to await your response as you feel yourself gazing stupidly in surprise at him.
You could barely reel yourself back to the present, especially when you could still feel alcohol swirling in your stomach—reminding you once again that you weren't even sober and this could all be just a fragment of your imagination.
But when your gaze drops to meet the small smirk that now forms across his lips, to see a light shade of red stained on his bottom lip, you know it's very much real. You weren't just imagining things.
Your childhood crush had just reciprocated your feelings. The same feelings that you thought you might carry to your grave if you never managed to move on.
a/n: HI YES IM BACK !! also this sat in my drafts for so long cos my brain just wouldn't help me continue this until recently... anyways, in case it didn't feel as clear, nothing actually happened last night. Osamu just helped your drunk ass wash up and tuck you to bed comfortably (he would never do something while you're not sober or at least that's what I think)
╭ ❝ You've had a crush on Osamu for the longest time. After hearing that he broke up with his ex, you thought that maybe you'd score a chance now. However, your hopes are soon met with silence after silence... Is this your call to give up or seek out an answer?
cw: ooc (probably), reader is desperately(?) pining for osamu (me too /j), mentions of alcohol use, fluff (maybe with slight angst mentioned if you squint hard enough), flashbacks included, wc: 3.2k
note: one shot inspired by "call me when you break up" by selena gomez, gracie abrams & benny blanco; layout best viewed in light mode !
Blinking open your eyes, the world seems to swirl around you for a second as you try to sit up—only to realize something is holding you down tight to the bed, making your attempts to get up immediately drop.
Since when did I knock out? You wonder silently as you lift your arm to rub your eyes gently, trying to bring your eyes to concentrate on your room's ceiling.
Wait. Something isn't right.
You think softly as you turn to your left, trying to look for the familiar window pane, framed with your favourite lavender-coloured silk curtains...
But it isn't there...?
"Ya' finally up, hmm?"
A familiar voice suddenly buzzes in your right ear, making you jump slightly as you turn your head immediately to the right—only to get the shock of your life.
"Wha—Osamu?"
You exclaim, surprised, as soon as you come face to face with his sleepy face. It's the first time you've ever seen him like this...
His half-lidded eyes seem to look more tired than usual… almost like they were forcing themselves open so that he could take a good look at you.
Lifting a hand to tuck a few stray strands of your hair behind your ear gently, he looks at you warmly before a small smile cracks across his lips.
"Huh? Don't tell me 'ya forgot 'bout last night?"
His words make you pause for a moment, your eyes widening slightly as panic rises within you. You feel your heartbeat quicken instantly as you scramble nervously to retrace your memories back to last night.
But it's no use. Not when every single bit of your memories from last night was washed down smoothly to a hidden part of your brain, just like the alcohol you drank last night.
All downed in one smooth gulp.
The only thing you could find yourself doing right now was to blink helplessly at Osamu, part of you wishing him being in front of you was just a dream. Or if only he could say something...
Something to convince you nothing that bad happened last night. But the only next pair of words that spill from his lips was,
"That bad, huh?"
And that was enough to make you overthink.
You and Osamu have been childhood friends since young.
Because of how close your two families stayed in the neighbourhood, naturally your parents grew to be best friends and so did y'all.
In fact it was bound to happen.
It was almost inevitable to not talk to him.
Not when he would drop by your house doorstep from time to time delivering food made by the Miya twins' mother. Or when he would mess up your hair slightly by petting your head every time he passed by you, hoping to tease a reaction out of you.
Or when he was the one to stop Atsumu from continuously teasing you, always not failing to notice how affected you would get sometimes from his incessant mischievous remarks. One way or another, he always found a way to be part of your life— whether you liked it or not.
At first you disliked how you couldn't avoid him. Your friends would start asking how you knew someone as good-looking as him, hoping to get some tea out of your lips. Especially when your parents would suddenly put on the role of being your matchmakers, trying to stir things between the two of you.
However, as time passed, you found yourself flinching every time his name was mentioned. Or was it the subtle blush that started appearing on your cheeks every time he smiled at you that made you realise the growing feelings in your heart?
You had no idea.
What you knew though, was that you started liking how involved he would get in your life. His presence no longer felt like a weighing dread but something you constantly hoped would chase after you.
So when he introduced you to his first girlfriend, a part of you tried to be happy for him, although your world seemed to fall apart internally. You can't help but find your everyday routine revolving around a common activity which was to scroll endlessly through Osamu's Instagram page, hoping to find a potential crack in his new relationship.
Even just the slightest hints, like how his girlfriend stopped tagging him in some of her selfies, was enough to make you feel over the moon.
Though, that was three months ago.
The current Osamu was now single and happy. He was now occupied with the successes of his restaurant that he never seemed to take a second glance to look back at you. In fact, he seemed to forget you even more after his break up.
Only making a conversation with you if you were the first to text him or give him a call. He no longer wished you happy birthday or happy valentine's day, unless you posted about it on your Instagram stories. It was as though, he was trying his best to leave a distance between you and him.
So when you stumbled into his onigiri store, all drunk one day, questioning why he never even bothered to give you a call after his break up, it wasn't all too surprising to hear for your sober self.
"Why didn't you call me after your break up?"
You asked Osamu as you stumbled into his store, nudging open the glass door with the side of your hip, immediately meeting Osamu's eyes as you look towards the counter.
"Hm? Whatcha mean, yn?"
He asks you gently, his voice soft with no judgement before he glances up at you to catch a glimpse of your stare, his right hand holding a piece of cloth used to wipe down the counter.
Meeting his clueless glance and the clear confusion in his statement, you can't help but feel your heart drop slightly in disappointment. You feel your body sway from side to side as you shift closer towards him. Your feet shuffle across the floor, the bottom of your shoes barely lifted from the ground as you walk.
"You're asking what I mean?"
You respond back, your words coming out like a soft and slow drawl as you gaze up at him. A small pout forms along your lips as you cross your arms lazily over your chest. Your feet come to an abrupt stop, the movement almost causing you to stumble over, your lips nearly delivering a kiss to the counter standing before you.
For a moment, you wonder if your eyes are deceiving you as you catch a glimpse of Osamu's arms outstretched, ready to catch you before your head hits the counter—only to retract just as quickly.
"Why are you suddenly so distant from me after your break up?"
Osamu's expression seems to slightly change from your words, guilt flickers over his gaze as he releases his grasp on the cloth. He seemed to purposely avoid your gaze for a while, dropping the eye contact both of y'all held.
As soon as he looks away, you feel your fist clench slightly as you feel your eyebrows crease faintly. What did that reaction of his even mean? Was he distancing himself from you purposely all along? As that thought settled into your head, you can't help but feel a slight sting at the bridge of your nose.
You knew that there was clearly a possibility that he was avoiding you on purpose. After all, you didn't used to be that distant. Especially when the both of you had been close childhood friends since young—he wasn't one to not drop a single text to you, even if he was particularly busy.
But why?
Why would he delibrately avoid you?
Deep down, you wanted to brush away this conversation as quickly as possible, pretend you didn't even ask such a question and go back to being "normal." Especially when there was a clear chance his reason might hurt.
But would that moment of hurt matter more than truly not knowing why he was avoiding you? Your logic bites back instantly, causing your mouth to part open once again, the words spilling out of your lips instantaneously before you could hold it back.
"You haven't been initiating any calls or texts...It's always me who does something first."
You continue, a faint edge of bitterness visible in your voice as you try to search Osamu's gaze deeper. You aren't sure what you're searching for but you continue to search deeply in his gaze anyway, your eyes gazing hard into his. Perhaps it's a source of hope that he would stop whatever foolish tricks or mannerisms he's been pulling at you...
"Ya want a glass of water or somethin'?"
He responds instead, his tone a fraction quieter as he gives you a brief light smile.
You grimace slightly at his blunt attempt in trying to avoid your questions, your expression clearly not reciprocating his casual and simple smile.
"Talk to me, Osamu. Please, for goodness sake."
You insist, your fist clenching tighter as you rest it on the counter surface. You feel your gaze bore into Osamu's eyes, silently pleading him to stop steering away from the topic.
“We can have this conversation another time... You're real drunk now, yn."
He says instead—after the minuscule silence that both of y'all shared, one that made your heart drop, seeing the way he constantly shifted his gaze further from yours.
This isn't the response you're hoping for. Your brain reminds you once again before you could settle for a small reluctant nod in response—the kind of conflict avoidant response you've been giving Osamu's actions all this while. Choosing to dismiss the way he no longer texts or calls you first with a simple "he's busy" or "he's still recovering from his break up" excuse. But not today.
A small scoff escapes your lips as you look up at Osamu, your vision spinning slightly as you lift your head to gaze into his eyes too abruptly.
"You think if I am not drunk we would ever have this conversation? I can't even bring myself to confront you without liquor courage..."
You pause for a moment as he suddenly looks back to meet your gaze, startling you slightly when you notice the crease between his eyebrows, a slight vulnerability in his gaze—an expression you never expected to witness from Osamu.
"Hey..I-"
You start, reaching out slightly to brush the crease between his brows, hoping to ease that crease and maybe his pain. Yet before you could do so, he pushes your hand away—the action deliberate yet gentle.
"Don't."
You pause, your whole body stilling as you hear the seriousness in his voice. There seemed to be a hint of remorse behind his words, yet it could be just your drunk ass playing tricks at you again.
"Don't what? I can't even care about you anymore now?"
You start instead, your mouth running words you know you don't mean. Those definitely weren't the words you meant to say, yet they came out quicker than the actual words twisted deep in your throat—words that meant to show your concern, not your desperation hidden behind your mild annoyance.
"You make me feel so stupid staying up late into the night, just expecting a simple text from you. And the excuses I've made up in my head for all the times you never texted, even when I had expected something, they're all starting to run dry."
A crack in your voice was evident as you spoke, your head vividly recounting those nights where you laid sprawled in your bed waiting for a simple text from him. You would have stayed up until the face mask you had laid over your face was turning dry back then. Yet, there wouldn't be a single text bubble popping up from your screen.
All you could see was the last reply he had given you from your last message. His profile picture which was a photo of a plate of signature onigiris sold in his store. Even if his status showed that he was online.
At that moment, anyone would have given up. Wasn't it clear that you probably no longer held a place in his heart? Yet, you still held onto every bit of hope your heart could offer—excuses coming after excuses, until they got almost unbelievable.
"I hated myself for being that pathetic. To even anticipate a message from you like before."
You breathed out the words, your eyes dropping to the counter which was the only thing that set distance between the both of you. You could feel your heart drumming in your chest erratically, your emotions were baring themselves to him faster than your brain could process.
Before you could hold back your lips from saying words that you would definitely beat yourself over for saying tomorrow, your lips gave way to the last bit of liquid courage you had.
"But I hated myself more for still hopelessly loving you, even when it was clear you never cared for me anymore."
As soon as those words left your lips, you felt your gaze drop quickly from the counter to the floor. Your gaze could only land on any possible area that would be further from his gaze.
Even if your curiosity begged you to lift your head and take a quick glimpse at his face, to see what kind of reaction he would have to your words, you couldn't dare to. Your liquid courage had reached it's limits and every part of you felt that meeting his gaze now would only make you regret those words of yours.
Even before you became sober and aware of the possible consequences your words.
"Yn."
Osamu began, his voice breaking the silence that you didn't even realise had fallen between the both of you. You could feel your breath hitch, just the slightest bit, as the sound of his lips parting could be heard once again.
"I'm sorry. I know. I know I shouldn't have said that."
You start immediately, your feet taking a step back as you turn your face away from him. If your vision before was terrible, it had became worse now. The ground beneath your feet seem to swirl, ready to swallow you whole.
And maybe you would let it. If it could let you escape this remorse of yours.
Yet, before you could even take another step away, further from Osamu, his hand suddenly wrapped tightly around your forearm.His hands felt warm against your forearm, really warm in fact. Even the fabric of your shirt that separated his palm from directly meeting the skin of your forearm couldn't prevent the warm tingling feeling that he had send straight into your body.
"Geez, you won't even let me speak, huh?"
His voice echoes into the empty store once again. You hate how he immediately gains your attention just with the sound of his voice, his words cutting straight through your thoughts.
As if the situation couldn't get worse, his freehand soon rests on the bottom of your chin, tilting your head to meet his gaze gently. Even if you wanted to keep your gaze firmly turned away from him, the way his eyes stared into yours made it almost impossible.
If he knew the effect his gaze had on you, he was definitely teasing you with his gaze right now. Especially when his eyes burned with such tenderness, one that you've only seen him stare at his ex with.
Back then, even though it wasn't a gaze directed towards you, your heart immediately softened towards him. To think that he was using this gaze of his on you, it almost felt like a fever dream.
"It's not that I didn't care for you."
He said finally, his tone laced with slight guilt as he pulls away from resting his hand on your chin.
"Rather, I cared so much about you, that I felt like I would be a bother if I ever let myself be true to my feelings towards you. Especially after just ending a relationship with someone else."
A small scoff escapes your lips, your gaze boring straight into his as you make a thoughtless comment softly.
"Why would you be a bother? I sound more like the bother right now, don't I?"
You weren't even expecting much of a reaction from Osamu, yet his eyebrows seemed to quirk in annoyance as he heard your words.
"You would never be a bother to me."
His tone was sharp and clear, his words cutting through the soft awkward laugh that was about to leave your lips. You find your eyes looking into his once again, searching for that look that told you he said that only to stop you from thinking negatively. Yet, your search was futile. You found yourself realising the opposite from his gaze.
"I just meant, you mean a lot to me. I didn't realise it before but I know it's true now."
He continues, his words making your breath catch in your throat slightly. If you were planning on brushing his words away then, to play it off and make it less serious than he intended, you couldn't now.
Not when his words matched that sincere gaze of his.
"And maybe it's a lot more than just a friend…"
He added on suddenly, his words almost inaudible as he continued. You could spot the small tinge of red that lined the tips of his ears as he takes off his black cap, running a quick hand through his short black hair quickly.
"What…?"
You start softly, almost in disbelief as you blink once at Osamu.
"I love you, Yn. More than friends or whatever…"
He explains once again, a soft laugh escaping his lips as he gazes deep into your eyes. You could feel your heart skip once at his words and the way his laugh revebrates into your ears.
Before you could even let you second guess his words, his grasp on your forearm tugs you closer to his figure gently. His other hand finds the bottom of your chin easily, almost as if he memorised the position from that simple touch before, angling your face towards his. Finally, before you could even react, he leans over the counter to close the distance between your lips.
"Do you believe me now?"
He speaks against your lips, kissing you softly once again, before pulling away slowly. One brow of his was lifted slightly, seeming to await your response as you feel yourself gazing stupidly in surprise at him.
You could barely reel yourself back to the present, especially when you could still feel alcohol swirling in your stomach—reminding you once again that you weren't even sober and this could all be just a fragment of your imagination.
But when your gaze drops to meet the small smirk that now forms across his lips, to see a light shade of red stained on his bottom lip, you know it's very much real. You weren't just imagining things.
Your childhood crush had just reciprocated your feelings. The same feelings that you thought you might carry to your grave if you never managed to move on.
a/n: HI YES IM BACK !! also this sat in my drafts for so long cos my brain just wouldn't help me continue this until recently... anyways, in case it didn't feel as clear, nothing actually happened last night. Osamu just helped your drunk ass wash up and tuck you to bed comfortably (he would never do something while you're not sober or at least that's what I think)