Chapter 5
“Mama! Mama!” The sounds of a small and loud voice was becoming more clear and clear as you started to wake from your sleep. You had grumbled a bit as the feeling of small hands gripping on your sheets and shaking your body back and forth was felt. As you fought hard to open up your heavy eyelids, a blurry vision was all you could see for a few seconds, until you actually focused on who was in front of you.
“Mm….Yujiro?” You looked up and saw your son all dressed up with a bright smile as his accessory. “Eh? Did you dress yourself?” You sat up, feeling a bit more sober than a minute ago. Your eyes were a bit wider as well. “Such a big boy I have already.” You smiled. Yujiro in return grinned at the feeling of such a high praise.
‘He must be so excited if he attempted to dress himself like this.’ Yujiro hoped off your bed and backed up so you could get up. You pulled the covers off your body and swung your body over to the edge of the bed to where your legs would dangle a few inches from the floor. “Why don’t we go downstairs together so I can cook us up some breakfast?”
“Yes!” You giggled and took hold of Yujiro’s little hand as you stood up from the bed. Since you already had pajamas on, you didn’t have to worry about putting on a robe. You both walked side by side down the stairs, but it was a little hard to walk together since Yujiro was much shorter than you. When you got to the kitchen, you pulled back the chair for Yujiro; he climbed up and sat the table patiently until breakfast was ready. Afterwards, you immediately went to fridge and took out some ingredients to do an omelet. “Mama, aren’t you excited to go the amusement park with Oniisan! I can’t wait!”
“Mm…Neither can I.” You sweat dropped awkwardly.
*****
Right after breakfast, you went back upstairs to go choose something to put on. You were actually having a hard time deciding what to where for this. ‘Well the weather is nice out, so I guess it’s safe to go with my carpi’s with my white tank top.’ You put on your clothes and then stood in front of your dresser, where another and wider mirror was placed. Your hands were roaming your body, somewhat checking if your clothes were looking good on you. ‘But what about jewelry?’ You went to your small jewelry box that held your necklaces and bracelets in it. ‘I don’t think I should put on any bracelets on…maybe a necklace will do. This one should go with the outfit.’ You took up necklace that had only one charm on it, pretty much plain, and held it up to your neck. ‘Something simple, without trying to be too stylish, right?’
After you were thinking about it, the thought of you just thinking so hard about this whole thing caught your attention. “Ugh! Why am I thinking so hard about this? I’m acting like it’s a date with just the two of us.” You sighed dramatically with a tint of blush showing on your cheeks. Your eyes followed up to the mirror again and you saw the color of you cheeks. “It’s not even a real date; it’s just a little outing for three, so why am I getting so worked up?” You rolled your eyes and started to fix your hair. But, it was kind of obvious that you were nervous about this ‘outing’. You haven’t gone on a date since you met Renji, which was a while back. All of a sudden, your phone buzzed and played a small ringtone. You were being messaged. When you reached over to grab it, you went to messages and noticed that it was from Sugawara. When you got to the message, it said,
‘(f/n), tell me how the date went after you get back ;D.’
“Jeez…”
*****
After you finished dressing, you took Yujiro from his rooms and went downstairs where you both slipped on your shoes and went out the door. Instead of taking the car like you usually do to go somewhere; you had a plan to take the bus to the amusement park. It was a nice change of pace, plus you would be saving gas. Yujiro had no qualms about it, and held your hand the whole time until you got there.
When you both arrived, there was a man with black bed hair standing at the entrance of the park.
“Oniisan!” When you two were close enough to him, Yujiro let go off your hand and took off, running towards Kuroo. You walked the rest of the distance until you met up with them both. You couldn’t help but crack a smile at Yujiro’s excitement to see him.
“Good morning (f/n).” You said to him. After his greeting to Yujiro, he looked at you and his eyes widened up a bit. ‘Is she really a single mother?’ Kuroo blushed when he saw you. ‘Damn…She doesn’t even look like a mom. She doesn’t even look like she’s in her twenties. She looks like she’s still in high school, especially with that small body of hers.’
“Good morning to you as well.” You said to him in response. “Were you waiting long for us?” ‘Wow, he actually looks good.’ You blushed a tiny bit.
“No, I sort of just got here like…5 minutes ago…” You could see it in his eyes that he couldn’t stop staring at you. His eyes never wavering from your person, once. It was like, even though he usually saw you in casual wear, today, you were just like so different, in a good way. Was it because it wasn’t a normal school day? Was it because you guys were out together? Or was it because you were just that beautiful.
“I see, that’s good then. Shall we go in then?”
“Yeah, let’s go in.”
“Let’s go on the rides!” Yujiro started tugged on Kuroo’s hand, as he tried to make him run with him. “Lots of them!”
“Well, we can’t go on all the rides.” You started to say and made him stop in his tracks. “You have to be a certain height and age to get to some of them.”
“Oh, okay!” Even though that seemed to disappoint him a bit, Yujiro still seemed to have a smile on his face.
“Yujiro, do you want to go on the merry-go-round?” Kuroo asked from still behind him. Yujiro turned to show Kuroo his smiling face. “I guess that’s a yes then, come one.”
Yujiro balled up his fists and crouched, somewhat like a victory stance. “Yes!” This time, Kuroo was the one in lead, well sort of, since Yujiro was short, Kuroo had to adjust by having Yujiro walk beside him. You were walking behind the two, with a bit of a surprised look on your face.
‘They really do have good chemistry together.’ You thought. ‘They almost look like father and son in a way.’
“(f/n),” Kuroo stopped and turned around, along with Yujiro, to look at you. “If you don’t walk up, we’re going to end up leaving you behind.”
“Hurry mommy!” Yujiro called you over with his waving hand and his cheerful voice.
“Oh, alright.” You smiled and started to jog of to them. Once all three of you were side by side, you all started to walk to the merry-go-round. Once you got there, Yujiro couldn’t stop jumping until he actually got onto one of the statue rides. Yujiro had gotten on the ride with the blue horse.
Every time Yujiro came around, he would take one hand off the reins and wave with it over to you two. “Mama! Oniisan! Look here!”
“Keep both of your hands on the reins, it’s dangerous!” You told him, but managed to smile and wave afterwards.” Yujiro quickly paced his other hand back on the ride and continued to pass by.
When Yujiro came back around, Kuroo called to him. “Yujiro, look over here!” Kuroo had actually slipped a camera out of his back pocket and held it up to his face with a stance that signaled he was about to take a picture. Yujiro turned to look at Kuroo and then started to grin, taking his hand off the rein again. Kuroo took about 3 pictures and watched him go by once again. “(f/n), look.” Kuroo reached over to tap your shoulder. When he did, you flinched at his sudden touch and took a step back. ‘?’
Your heart started to speed up past its normal rate. When you looked to your left, you saw Kuroo with a camera in hand and a surprised look on his features. ‘He has such large hands, I thought he was…’ “Y-yes?” You turned your whole body to face him. ‘Well, he is almost the same height as Renji, and he has a really good physique.’ You sized Kuroo up and down. From top to bottom and side to side, your eyes roamed about. ‘Ugh! What am I thinking!?’ You blushed in secret.
Kuroo could actually see you trembling a bit as you faced him. ‘What was that all about? She’s probably a jumpy person when she gets touched like that, so suddenly. I guess that’s understandable, but she’s shaking.’ “Uh, look these pictures of Yujiro I just took.”
“Pictures?” You stepped closer to him and leaned the top half of your body over into his space so that you could get a look at the pictures he claimed to take. While leaned over, a certain scent was finding its way around your nose and into your nostrils. Your eyes widened up a bit. ‘I-is that him?!’
“See, doesn’t it look good. He looks like he’s smiling more in this one.” Kuroo pressed the arrow shaped button on the side of the camera, which went back to a previous picture of Yujiro, and he pointed on it.
‘He smells…so good!’ You found your cheeks turning pink at the rare scent. ‘Either he had some ridiculously nice cologne, or I haven’t noticed his scent before.’ The weird part about this whole thing was that you couldn’t help but keep sniffing him. You felt like such a creep. “Y-yeah, I like that one has well.” You agreed, trying not to be silent for too long. “Wow, the pictures really did come out good though, even though he was moving and such.”
“Yeah, this camera is really good. Even when people or objects are moving, it can still capture a great shot. I brought it along with me, because I know this day is going to be that I never ever want to forget,” Kuroo turned his head to look at you. You could feel the soft pressure of his eyes on you, and decided to return the gesture. “Especially since it’s with you.” Kuroo had told you with such sincerity, not only with his mouth, but you could see it within the look of his eyes.
“!” That light shade of pink had gotten darker, and started to expand more on your cheeks.
“And with Yujiro as well of course.” He said with a smile and directed his eyes back at the camera.
You were honestly hoping it was the ‘cologne’ that was making your heart speed up, the way it was. ‘Is he serious about what he said?’ As soon as you finished your thought, you heard Yujiro calling you from the ride. When you looked up, you saw that the ride had been stopped, and that the man was unbuckling Yujiro from the horse so that he could then again be reunited with you. When Yujiro was unbuckled, he was lifted down from the horse and onto the ground. Yujiro started to run towards you. His little arms tried to wrap around both of your legs. “Did you have fun?” You asked him while crouching down to his level.
“Mm! Let’s go on more rides! Oniisan, choose the next one!” Yujiro looked up and over to Kuroo, who was already looking down at him.
“Alright, let’s go on,” Kuroo took a moment to look around. ”That one over there.” He pointed to another ride that Yujiro could go on. Actually it was one that you all could go on.
“Let’s go, let’s go!” Yujiro’s excitement was undying.
“Come on (f/n),” Kuroo slipped his camera back into his back pocket and stretched out his right hand to you. “Let’s go.”
With a very noticeable smile on your face, took his hand. ‘I guess he’s not so bad after all. And I’m not as nervous as I was before.’ “Yeah.” You said to him, and let him lead the way.
After you went on that ride, each of you took turns choosing different rides for you all to go on, games to play and so on. Kuroo even won Yujiro a stuffed toy, which took the form of a dragon. He was really happy about that. You could honestly say it was the best fun you had ever had in a long time. Both you and Yujiro were having a great time, and it was all thanks to Kuroo, who in return was having a great time as well. But after all those rides, you guys eventually had gotten hungry and searched for a booth to get something to eat.
“Should we go get something to eat now?” Your arms went up so you could stretch and release the small built up tension in your body from the rides. When Kuroo looked over you, he saw a genuine smile on your face and couldn’t help but open his mouth to you.
“You look like you’re having fun.” He noted.
“Hm?” You turned to him while gently throwing your arms down. “Yeah, I really am.” Your smile widened. “It’s the most fun I’ve had in a while.”
Kuroo found himself catching your infectious smile. “Glad to hear it then.” ‘She really does have a pretty smile.’ Kuroo could feel the beating of his heart picking up. ‘Makes me feel good that I’m the one who’s making her do it too.’ “Why don’t I treat everyone to lunch.”
“Oh no, you don’t have to do that.” You waved your hands in front of you to tell him he needn’t bother.
“It’s fine. It’s the least I can do, since you did accept my invitation. Just let me treat you both.”
“…Fine, but I want to pay you back.”
“You don’t have to do that, (f/n).”
“But I’d feel really guilty.”
‘She’d feel guilty? Well if that’s the case…’ “Do you really want to pay me back?”
“I do!”
“Then what about a kiss?”
“Eh? A kiss!? Why? But Yujiro is- I can’t do something like that!”
“Don’t worry, I was kidding. Hopefully, we can do something like that on our next date.”
“Our next date!?” Your cheeks blew up in a light pink.
“Yeah, if you’ll allow me to take you on another one.”
“I-I don’t know. I don’t think I should…but, I then again, I think I really want to go on another date…”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
‘I can’t believe she wants to go on another date.’ “So, in exchange for paying for our food, why don’t you give me your number, so I can call you.”
“Alright. But not now.”
“Not now?”
“Yeah, we still have more fun things to do before we leave. So, why don’t we go and get that food now.” You pointed to a nearby cart that sold octopus balls.
“Sure.” Kuroo smiled and followed you over to the cart. Yujiro, with his little feet tagged along behind you two. When you got to the cart, Kuroo ordered two separate bowels. One for him and the other for you and Yujiro to share.
“Thank you Oniisan!” Yujiro exclaimed as he chewed on the octopus ball.
“No problem.” Kuroo took one of his hands from holding the bowl, and used it to reach down and ruffle Yujiro’s hair.
After you all finished eating, you went back and rode some of the rides twice again and until the sun started to set.
“Well, I think we should be getting home now.” You said, lifting Yujiro’s small and half heavy body up and into your hands. Since today was practically fun filled, Yujiro eventually had gotten weary and tired himself out. You knew you were going to have to hurry back home because Yujiro’s lead-like body wasn’t going to agree with your shoulder for much longer.
“Really? Well, I guess we can’t do much more, especially since Yujiro is K.O. Alright, how about I walk you to your car?”
“Oh no, that’s alright, I didn’t take my car with me today. I thought it was too nice of a day to use my car, plus it would have been a waste of gas.”
“I see, well why don’t I drive you to the bus stop.”
“’Drive’? You have a car?”
“Is that such a surprise?”
“Actually yes, it is.”
“Hand him over.” Without a moment’s notice, Kuroo took Yujiro out of your hand and started walking away.
“Hey!” You quickly followed up behind him.
“As a matter of fact, why don’t I just drive you home?”
“…” His suggestion to drive you home was a bit too much for you. You didn’t know whether you should tell him, or just have him drop you off at the bus stop as planned. You looked down at your feet, before looking at him again. “Fine.”
“Really?” Kuroo seemed a bit surprised at your answer.
“Yes.”
“Wow, I guess you’re really warming up to me now, huh. I promise I won’t come over uninvited, unless you want or need something from me.”
“Really?” You asked.
“Yup. I wouldn’t want to push you away like the first time, because I really like you.”
“!” You took a brief pause for a moment, and then sped up at a ridiculous rate. ‘H-he ‘likes’ me?! He likes me!? Like, likes me, likes me!?’“Y-you like me?”
“Yeah, I do. Since the first day we met. Even though you’re such a small thing, you’re amazingly strong. Being a single mom is no easy thing. But watching you, and seeing you go about it, is more interesting then you’d think. ”
“Um…I-“ The bright color of your cheeks was no way near close to dulling over.
“Listen to me; I don’t expect you to reply or feel the same way about me right away. I want you to wait until you feel the same way about me. I don’t know how long that’ll take, but I guess it doesn’t matter because I’m never going to stop feeling this way about you.”
You were completely silent. You couldn’t really think of anything to say to this. All you were worried about was him hearing the loud thumping organ that lay right behind your left ribcage.
“Alright, let’s you get you and this little one home.”
“Yes.” Kuroo continued on his way out the park, with you trailing silently behind him, until he found his car. When you looked up, your eyes widened up yet again. The pure white color that covered the car’s body, with black tinted windows and sweet tire rims. ‘Wow, such a nice car.’ “You have a really nice car.” You spoke up to say. Your eyes couldn’t help but roam over the nicely done car.
“Oh, thanks.” Kuroo said while opening the back door of the car. He stuck his whole top half through the car to place Yujiro in the car seat he had and strapped him in securely. Kuroo then backed up and closed the door. He shifted over to open up the passenger seat for you. “Here, get in.”
“Thank you.” You walked up to the door, and swung your body inside the seat. You tucked your leg in and let Kuroo close the door. Your eyes followed him as he went over to get in the car. When he opened the door, you looked away from him, and continued to look out the window. You hugged the prized stuff animal that Kuroo had won for Yujiro. As soon as the car door closed, Kuroo drove off. As Kuroo was driving, you gave him direction on where to take turns, and such until you got to your house. “So this is where you live.” Kuroo looked out the window at your house. “It’s nice.”
“Thank you.” You said, opening the car door and stepping out. You went to the back door and opened it up, went in to unbuckle Yujiro. As you reached out and scooped him up in your arms, he groaned a little bit with a bit of a shift, and fell right back to sleep. Kuroo got out of the car with you and walked you up to your door. “Thank you for today, Kuroo-san. It was really fun, for the both of us.” You took your keys out your back pocket and shoved them in the keyhole of the door.
“I’m glad you both enjoyed yourselves.”
“Well, goodnight.” You waved to him and pushed open the door.
“Goodnight, sleep tight.” The door finally closed and Kuroo walked away. When he got back to the car, he realized something. Something really important. ‘She forgot to give me her number!’ Just when he put his hand on the door handle, to get out the car again, he took a glance at a small piece of paper that had writing on it. When he moved closer to it, he picked it up and his eyes widened. The piece of paper read:
‘It’s fine if you call me anytime, I don’t mind: xxx-xxx-xxxx’
“I get the feeling she’s really warming up to me know.” Kuroo smirked and sat back in the seat. Kuroo turned the key that was in the ignition and started to back up out of the parking spot. Just when Kuroo was about to drive away, he glanced up at the rearview mirror and saw a car coming. It looked like it was slowing down to your house. When it did, Kuroo got suspicious. He saw the car door open and out stepped a man. In the man’s hand was a bouquet of flowers. He closed the car door back and then started walking up to your door. Kuroo’s eyes followed the man, trying to look closely at his profile.
“Wait, that guy…he looks like that guy who came to pick Yujiro up that day. Yujiro’s dad?” ‘What the hell is going on?’ “…I better get out of here.” Kuroo pulled out of the spot and drove off.
“Mm….Yujiro?” You looked up and saw your son all dressed up with a bright smile as his accessory. “Eh? Did you dress yourself?” You sat up, feeling a bit more sober than a minute ago. Your eyes were a bit wider as well. “Such a big boy I have already.” You smiled. Yujiro in return grinned at the feeling of such a high praise.
‘He must be so excited if he attempted to dress himself like this.’ Yujiro hoped off your bed and backed up so you could get up. You pulled the covers off your body and swung your body over to the edge of the bed to where your legs would dangle a few inches from the floor. “Why don’t we go downstairs together so I can cook us up some breakfast?”
“Yes!” You giggled and took hold of Yujiro’s little hand as you stood up from the bed. Since you already had pajamas on, you didn’t have to worry about putting on a robe. You both walked side by side down the stairs, but it was a little hard to walk together since Yujiro was much shorter than you. When you got to the kitchen, you pulled back the chair for Yujiro; he climbed up and sat the table patiently until breakfast was ready. Afterwards, you immediately went to fridge and took out some ingredients to do an omelet. “Mama, aren’t you excited to go the amusement park with Oniisan! I can’t wait!”
“Mm…Neither can I.” You sweat dropped awkwardly.
*****
Right after breakfast, you went back upstairs to go choose something to put on. You were actually having a hard time deciding what to where for this. ‘Well the weather is nice out, so I guess it’s safe to go with my carpi’s with my white tank top.’ You put on your clothes and then stood in front of your dresser, where another and wider mirror was placed. Your hands were roaming your body, somewhat checking if your clothes were looking good on you. ‘But what about jewelry?’ You went to your small jewelry box that held your necklaces and bracelets in it. ‘I don’t think I should put on any bracelets on…maybe a necklace will do. This one should go with the outfit.’ You took up necklace that had only one charm on it, pretty much plain, and held it up to your neck. ‘Something simple, without trying to be too stylish, right?’
After you were thinking about it, the thought of you just thinking so hard about this whole thing caught your attention. “Ugh! Why am I thinking so hard about this? I’m acting like it’s a date with just the two of us.” You sighed dramatically with a tint of blush showing on your cheeks. Your eyes followed up to the mirror again and you saw the color of you cheeks. “It’s not even a real date; it’s just a little outing for three, so why am I getting so worked up?” You rolled your eyes and started to fix your hair. But, it was kind of obvious that you were nervous about this ‘outing’. You haven’t gone on a date since you met Renji, which was a while back. All of a sudden, your phone buzzed and played a small ringtone. You were being messaged. When you reached over to grab it, you went to messages and noticed that it was from Sugawara. When you got to the message, it said,
‘(f/n), tell me how the date went after you get back ;D.’
“Jeez…”
*****
After you finished dressing, you took Yujiro from his rooms and went downstairs where you both slipped on your shoes and went out the door. Instead of taking the car like you usually do to go somewhere; you had a plan to take the bus to the amusement park. It was a nice change of pace, plus you would be saving gas. Yujiro had no qualms about it, and held your hand the whole time until you got there.
When you both arrived, there was a man with black bed hair standing at the entrance of the park.
“Oniisan!” When you two were close enough to him, Yujiro let go off your hand and took off, running towards Kuroo. You walked the rest of the distance until you met up with them both. You couldn’t help but crack a smile at Yujiro’s excitement to see him.
“Good morning (f/n).” You said to him. After his greeting to Yujiro, he looked at you and his eyes widened up a bit. ‘Is she really a single mother?’ Kuroo blushed when he saw you. ‘Damn…She doesn’t even look like a mom. She doesn’t even look like she’s in her twenties. She looks like she’s still in high school, especially with that small body of hers.’
“Good morning to you as well.” You said to him in response. “Were you waiting long for us?” ‘Wow, he actually looks good.’ You blushed a tiny bit.
“No, I sort of just got here like…5 minutes ago…” You could see it in his eyes that he couldn’t stop staring at you. His eyes never wavering from your person, once. It was like, even though he usually saw you in casual wear, today, you were just like so different, in a good way. Was it because it wasn’t a normal school day? Was it because you guys were out together? Or was it because you were just that beautiful.
“I see, that’s good then. Shall we go in then?”
“Yeah, let’s go in.”
“Let’s go on the rides!” Yujiro started tugged on Kuroo’s hand, as he tried to make him run with him. “Lots of them!”
“Well, we can’t go on all the rides.” You started to say and made him stop in his tracks. “You have to be a certain height and age to get to some of them.”
“Oh, okay!” Even though that seemed to disappoint him a bit, Yujiro still seemed to have a smile on his face.
“Yujiro, do you want to go on the merry-go-round?” Kuroo asked from still behind him. Yujiro turned to show Kuroo his smiling face. “I guess that’s a yes then, come one.”
Yujiro balled up his fists and crouched, somewhat like a victory stance. “Yes!” This time, Kuroo was the one in lead, well sort of, since Yujiro was short, Kuroo had to adjust by having Yujiro walk beside him. You were walking behind the two, with a bit of a surprised look on your face.
‘They really do have good chemistry together.’ You thought. ‘They almost look like father and son in a way.’
“(f/n),” Kuroo stopped and turned around, along with Yujiro, to look at you. “If you don’t walk up, we’re going to end up leaving you behind.”
“Hurry mommy!” Yujiro called you over with his waving hand and his cheerful voice.
“Oh, alright.” You smiled and started to jog of to them. Once all three of you were side by side, you all started to walk to the merry-go-round. Once you got there, Yujiro couldn’t stop jumping until he actually got onto one of the statue rides. Yujiro had gotten on the ride with the blue horse.
Every time Yujiro came around, he would take one hand off the reins and wave with it over to you two. “Mama! Oniisan! Look here!”
“Keep both of your hands on the reins, it’s dangerous!” You told him, but managed to smile and wave afterwards.” Yujiro quickly paced his other hand back on the ride and continued to pass by.
When Yujiro came back around, Kuroo called to him. “Yujiro, look over here!” Kuroo had actually slipped a camera out of his back pocket and held it up to his face with a stance that signaled he was about to take a picture. Yujiro turned to look at Kuroo and then started to grin, taking his hand off the rein again. Kuroo took about 3 pictures and watched him go by once again. “(f/n), look.” Kuroo reached over to tap your shoulder. When he did, you flinched at his sudden touch and took a step back. ‘?’
Your heart started to speed up past its normal rate. When you looked to your left, you saw Kuroo with a camera in hand and a surprised look on his features. ‘He has such large hands, I thought he was…’ “Y-yes?” You turned your whole body to face him. ‘Well, he is almost the same height as Renji, and he has a really good physique.’ You sized Kuroo up and down. From top to bottom and side to side, your eyes roamed about. ‘Ugh! What am I thinking!?’ You blushed in secret.
Kuroo could actually see you trembling a bit as you faced him. ‘What was that all about? She’s probably a jumpy person when she gets touched like that, so suddenly. I guess that’s understandable, but she’s shaking.’ “Uh, look these pictures of Yujiro I just took.”
“Pictures?” You stepped closer to him and leaned the top half of your body over into his space so that you could get a look at the pictures he claimed to take. While leaned over, a certain scent was finding its way around your nose and into your nostrils. Your eyes widened up a bit. ‘I-is that him?!’
“See, doesn’t it look good. He looks like he’s smiling more in this one.” Kuroo pressed the arrow shaped button on the side of the camera, which went back to a previous picture of Yujiro, and he pointed on it.
‘He smells…so good!’ You found your cheeks turning pink at the rare scent. ‘Either he had some ridiculously nice cologne, or I haven’t noticed his scent before.’ The weird part about this whole thing was that you couldn’t help but keep sniffing him. You felt like such a creep. “Y-yeah, I like that one has well.” You agreed, trying not to be silent for too long. “Wow, the pictures really did come out good though, even though he was moving and such.”
“Yeah, this camera is really good. Even when people or objects are moving, it can still capture a great shot. I brought it along with me, because I know this day is going to be that I never ever want to forget,” Kuroo turned his head to look at you. You could feel the soft pressure of his eyes on you, and decided to return the gesture. “Especially since it’s with you.” Kuroo had told you with such sincerity, not only with his mouth, but you could see it within the look of his eyes.
“!” That light shade of pink had gotten darker, and started to expand more on your cheeks.
“And with Yujiro as well of course.” He said with a smile and directed his eyes back at the camera.
You were honestly hoping it was the ‘cologne’ that was making your heart speed up, the way it was. ‘Is he serious about what he said?’ As soon as you finished your thought, you heard Yujiro calling you from the ride. When you looked up, you saw that the ride had been stopped, and that the man was unbuckling Yujiro from the horse so that he could then again be reunited with you. When Yujiro was unbuckled, he was lifted down from the horse and onto the ground. Yujiro started to run towards you. His little arms tried to wrap around both of your legs. “Did you have fun?” You asked him while crouching down to his level.
“Mm! Let’s go on more rides! Oniisan, choose the next one!” Yujiro looked up and over to Kuroo, who was already looking down at him.
“Alright, let’s go on,” Kuroo took a moment to look around. ”That one over there.” He pointed to another ride that Yujiro could go on. Actually it was one that you all could go on.
“Let’s go, let’s go!” Yujiro’s excitement was undying.
“Come on (f/n),” Kuroo slipped his camera back into his back pocket and stretched out his right hand to you. “Let’s go.”
With a very noticeable smile on your face, took his hand. ‘I guess he’s not so bad after all. And I’m not as nervous as I was before.’ “Yeah.” You said to him, and let him lead the way.
After you went on that ride, each of you took turns choosing different rides for you all to go on, games to play and so on. Kuroo even won Yujiro a stuffed toy, which took the form of a dragon. He was really happy about that. You could honestly say it was the best fun you had ever had in a long time. Both you and Yujiro were having a great time, and it was all thanks to Kuroo, who in return was having a great time as well. But after all those rides, you guys eventually had gotten hungry and searched for a booth to get something to eat.
“Should we go get something to eat now?” Your arms went up so you could stretch and release the small built up tension in your body from the rides. When Kuroo looked over you, he saw a genuine smile on your face and couldn’t help but open his mouth to you.
“You look like you’re having fun.” He noted.
“Hm?” You turned to him while gently throwing your arms down. “Yeah, I really am.” Your smile widened. “It’s the most fun I’ve had in a while.”
Kuroo found himself catching your infectious smile. “Glad to hear it then.” ‘She really does have a pretty smile.’ Kuroo could feel the beating of his heart picking up. ‘Makes me feel good that I’m the one who’s making her do it too.’ “Why don’t I treat everyone to lunch.”
“Oh no, you don’t have to do that.” You waved your hands in front of you to tell him he needn’t bother.
“It’s fine. It’s the least I can do, since you did accept my invitation. Just let me treat you both.”
“…Fine, but I want to pay you back.”
“You don’t have to do that, (f/n).”
“But I’d feel really guilty.”
‘She’d feel guilty? Well if that’s the case…’ “Do you really want to pay me back?”
“I do!”
“Then what about a kiss?”
“Eh? A kiss!? Why? But Yujiro is- I can’t do something like that!”
“Don’t worry, I was kidding. Hopefully, we can do something like that on our next date.”
“Our next date!?” Your cheeks blew up in a light pink.
“Yeah, if you’ll allow me to take you on another one.”
“I-I don’t know. I don’t think I should…but, I then again, I think I really want to go on another date…”
“Really?”
“Yes.”
‘I can’t believe she wants to go on another date.’ “So, in exchange for paying for our food, why don’t you give me your number, so I can call you.”
“Alright. But not now.”
“Not now?”
“Yeah, we still have more fun things to do before we leave. So, why don’t we go and get that food now.” You pointed to a nearby cart that sold octopus balls.
“Sure.” Kuroo smiled and followed you over to the cart. Yujiro, with his little feet tagged along behind you two. When you got to the cart, Kuroo ordered two separate bowels. One for him and the other for you and Yujiro to share.
“Thank you Oniisan!” Yujiro exclaimed as he chewed on the octopus ball.
“No problem.” Kuroo took one of his hands from holding the bowl, and used it to reach down and ruffle Yujiro’s hair.
After you all finished eating, you went back and rode some of the rides twice again and until the sun started to set.
“Well, I think we should be getting home now.” You said, lifting Yujiro’s small and half heavy body up and into your hands. Since today was practically fun filled, Yujiro eventually had gotten weary and tired himself out. You knew you were going to have to hurry back home because Yujiro’s lead-like body wasn’t going to agree with your shoulder for much longer.
“Really? Well, I guess we can’t do much more, especially since Yujiro is K.O. Alright, how about I walk you to your car?”
“Oh no, that’s alright, I didn’t take my car with me today. I thought it was too nice of a day to use my car, plus it would have been a waste of gas.”
“I see, well why don’t I drive you to the bus stop.”
“’Drive’? You have a car?”
“Is that such a surprise?”
“Actually yes, it is.”
“Hand him over.” Without a moment’s notice, Kuroo took Yujiro out of your hand and started walking away.
“Hey!” You quickly followed up behind him.
“As a matter of fact, why don’t I just drive you home?”
“…” His suggestion to drive you home was a bit too much for you. You didn’t know whether you should tell him, or just have him drop you off at the bus stop as planned. You looked down at your feet, before looking at him again. “Fine.”
“Really?” Kuroo seemed a bit surprised at your answer.
“Yes.”
“Wow, I guess you’re really warming up to me now, huh. I promise I won’t come over uninvited, unless you want or need something from me.”
“Really?” You asked.
“Yup. I wouldn’t want to push you away like the first time, because I really like you.”
“!” You took a brief pause for a moment, and then sped up at a ridiculous rate. ‘H-he ‘likes’ me?! He likes me!? Like, likes me, likes me!?’“Y-you like me?”
“Yeah, I do. Since the first day we met. Even though you’re such a small thing, you’re amazingly strong. Being a single mom is no easy thing. But watching you, and seeing you go about it, is more interesting then you’d think. ”
“Um…I-“ The bright color of your cheeks was no way near close to dulling over.
“Listen to me; I don’t expect you to reply or feel the same way about me right away. I want you to wait until you feel the same way about me. I don’t know how long that’ll take, but I guess it doesn’t matter because I’m never going to stop feeling this way about you.”
You were completely silent. You couldn’t really think of anything to say to this. All you were worried about was him hearing the loud thumping organ that lay right behind your left ribcage.
“Alright, let’s you get you and this little one home.”
“Yes.” Kuroo continued on his way out the park, with you trailing silently behind him, until he found his car. When you looked up, your eyes widened up yet again. The pure white color that covered the car’s body, with black tinted windows and sweet tire rims. ‘Wow, such a nice car.’ “You have a really nice car.” You spoke up to say. Your eyes couldn’t help but roam over the nicely done car.
“Oh, thanks.” Kuroo said while opening the back door of the car. He stuck his whole top half through the car to place Yujiro in the car seat he had and strapped him in securely. Kuroo then backed up and closed the door. He shifted over to open up the passenger seat for you. “Here, get in.”
“Thank you.” You walked up to the door, and swung your body inside the seat. You tucked your leg in and let Kuroo close the door. Your eyes followed him as he went over to get in the car. When he opened the door, you looked away from him, and continued to look out the window. You hugged the prized stuff animal that Kuroo had won for Yujiro. As soon as the car door closed, Kuroo drove off. As Kuroo was driving, you gave him direction on where to take turns, and such until you got to your house. “So this is where you live.” Kuroo looked out the window at your house. “It’s nice.”
“Thank you.” You said, opening the car door and stepping out. You went to the back door and opened it up, went in to unbuckle Yujiro. As you reached out and scooped him up in your arms, he groaned a little bit with a bit of a shift, and fell right back to sleep. Kuroo got out of the car with you and walked you up to your door. “Thank you for today, Kuroo-san. It was really fun, for the both of us.” You took your keys out your back pocket and shoved them in the keyhole of the door.
“I’m glad you both enjoyed yourselves.”
“Well, goodnight.” You waved to him and pushed open the door.
“Goodnight, sleep tight.” The door finally closed and Kuroo walked away. When he got back to the car, he realized something. Something really important. ‘She forgot to give me her number!’ Just when he put his hand on the door handle, to get out the car again, he took a glance at a small piece of paper that had writing on it. When he moved closer to it, he picked it up and his eyes widened. The piece of paper read:
‘It’s fine if you call me anytime, I don’t mind: xxx-xxx-xxxx’
“I get the feeling she’s really warming up to me know.” Kuroo smirked and sat back in the seat. Kuroo turned the key that was in the ignition and started to back up out of the parking spot. Just when Kuroo was about to drive away, he glanced up at the rearview mirror and saw a car coming. It looked like it was slowing down to your house. When it did, Kuroo got suspicious. He saw the car door open and out stepped a man. In the man’s hand was a bouquet of flowers. He closed the car door back and then started walking up to your door. Kuroo’s eyes followed the man, trying to look closely at his profile.
“Wait, that guy…he looks like that guy who came to pick Yujiro up that day. Yujiro’s dad?” ‘What the hell is going on?’ “…I better get out of here.” Kuroo pulled out of the spot and drove off.
Chapter 6
“Hm?” Renji turned his head around to see a car pulling out of its spot. He shrugged it off, not giving it much thought. Renji faced the door again and inhaled, then exhaled one big sigh. As he stepped up to the door, he reached over to the door bell that was dimly lighted in white. His index finger pressed the dim bell and from the outside he could hear the echo of the *Ding-dong*. You, thinking it was Kuroo for some reason, came walking over to the door and reached out to its knob. With your hand placed on the doorknob, you turned the clip with your other hand and pulled back the door. As soon as you opened it, you were faced to face with a bouquet of flower. They were white carnations, your favorite flower along with color. [Can choose different flower/color]. The only person who knew what your favorite color and flower was, was…
“Renji!” When you looked up, you saw a handsomely groomed Renji with a deep red spread across his cheeks. His eyes were averting your as well. How could you be so careless as to open the door like that without checking first? But it wasn’t really your fault. Renji hadn’t shown his face at your place in almost a month, so of course you would let your guard down. You starred up at him with terror show brightly in your eyes. ‘His cheeks are red. I-is he drunk again?’ You couldn't speak.
“Hey, (f/n)…” He scratched the back of his head with his free hand. “I-Uh…I brought you your favorite flowers. Carnations.”
“Why are you...here…? Everything was just fine…up until now.” You mumbled. You could feel the tears starting to well up in your sockets once again. The past memories of his visits started to flow up within your head. Your words stung Renji a bit, but it was completely understandable. “Please go home!” Two wet streaks started to stream down on either sides of your face. He looked so intimidating and serious and stern, it was scaring you.
“I will, but not without saying this first.”
“What are talking about? Say what?” You trembled out.
“I…I’m getting help.”
“Eh?”
“I’m getting help. I’ve been going to anger management sessions, and it’s helping me, alot.”
“Anger management? You’re lying! You just beat up on and raped me not even a month ago!” You shouted out out in trying to identify his lie.
“I know! That night was just a moment of weakness.” With his loud booming voice echoing in your ears, you flinched. When he saw you do so, he calmed himself down. “Sorry I scared you.”
“Why? Why are you doing this now? What are you trying to do? You don’t show up for about a month, and then you just pop up out of nowhere with my favorite flowers in your hands, saying that you’re getting help!? What are you up to Renji!”
“I’m trying to atone for what I’ve done in the past. I’m trying to make things better between us. I don’t want to be kept away from my son nor you for that matter.”
“’Make things better’? How are you going to ‘make thing better’ between us? Renji, there is no more ‘us’. You threw away ‘us’ the moment you attacked me. You knew what you were doing.”
“I did, you're right." Renji sighed. "I was afraid you were going to say that but I was prepared for it as well. It hurts, but this heartbreak is nothing compared to what I’ve put you through. I just don't want what I've been doing to you to be like that forever. I'm tired of treating you like crap, especially when you're far from it.”
“…Is that all? If so, I’d like you to leave now.” You mumbled while looking down at your feet. You were scared for his reply.
“It’s not all I wanted to tell you, but it is better if I go now. Here, the flowers.” Renji handed you the flowers and you hesitated in reaching out to them, but eventually ended up taking them. "I'll see you around." Renji gave a slight wave to you and backed up out of the door way. He then turned around and started walking off towards his car.
With the door still left open, you started to push it in, but then got closer to watch him leave. Through a medium crack in the door, you saw Renji get in his car and a few seconds later, drive off. As soon as you confirmed that his car was gone and out of sight, you closed the door and locked up. You turned around with your back facing the door and slumped against it. "What the hell was that all about?" You asked yourself with a slight mumble.
*****
As the weekend finished off with no problems, it was time for school again.
"(f/n)~" Sugawara came sneaking up close from behind, as soon as you slipped your apron on over your head. "How was the date?" He whispered with a grin.
"O-oh, it was fine." 'Damn it. I thought he would have forgotten about it already.'
"It was fine?"
"Mm. Fine. Yujiro had a wonderful time as well. He got to ride a lot of rides and even got a stuffed animal from Kuroo-san."
"So you went to the amusement park, huh. But, I'm more worried about if you had a good time or not. Did you?"
"....Mm. I-I did." You looked away, blushing.
"Hm~ So what happened?" With his hands on wither sides of his hips, he leaned over to get a better hear.
"W-we'll discuss it at lunch, Koushi." You pointed over to the rug that the kids were slowly gathering up on. "It's circle time." You slowly backed away from Sugawara with a nervous smile attached to your face. You had a feeling he was going to bombard you with lots of questions come lunch time.
As soon as lunch time came you were over by the teachers cubbies, taking out your lunch so that you could eat. You slipped it out of your bag and turned around to go over to the table. But right then and there, Sugawara was coming towards you at an immense speed. Before you could even have time to react, Sugawara grabbed up your arm and pulled you over to your table.
Sugawara sat you down and went around in front of you to take a seat. With his hands clasped together, and his eyes focused on you, it seemed like he didn't care about his lunch. "Alright Ms. (f/n). Spill it. What happened at the amusement park?"
"N-nothing much."
"Even though it's not that much, something still happened, so tell. I'm guessing by the blush on your cheeks that...he kissed you!"
"N-no!" 'Even though he was planning to do just that.' "I ended up giving him my number."
"You did?! Way to go (f/n)!"
"But then, right after I got home, Renji showed up. He gave me flowers and said that he wanted to make things right between us."
"Yujiro's father?" Sugawara stopped smiling. "*sigh*" He sighed. He unraveled the cloth from the lunchbox and took the top off it. "(f/n), let's not talk about him, okay. We don't need to talk about someone from the past. I just want you to focus on your new future."
"...Alright." You looked down at your un-opened lunch box.
"Hey, what's with that face? You should be happy for yourself."
"Mm."
*****
Later on after school every child had went on home with their parents already. The only ones who were left in the building were you, Yujiro and Sugawara. Being that the kids had a little too much energy today during play time, the room's floor was flooded with all sorts of toys and craft tools. Stuffed animals, cars, dollies, etc. Besides the point, both teachers were left with the job of cleaning up their messy mess.
"Wow, the kids really know how to play." You stated while bending down and picking up a long and red car toy with its little racer inside with your right hand. There was already a whole bunch of toys in your hand; toys that you had previously picked up.
"Don't they." Sugawara said, while walking over to the big toy chest they had in the back of the classroom. He went to chest to go and put down the toys that were filling his arms. But that's a good thing though. Means they're not bored with us."
You chuckled. "You're right. It would be really awkward if they just sat there practically lifeless, like zombies."
Sugawara laughed at the thought of their faces all drained of emotions. "Yeah, that would be-" Right in the middle of Sugawara's sentence, his phone that was laid inside his pocket went off with a buzz. "Hm? A message?" Sugawara looked back behind him and saw the vibration on his left cheek. Since his hands were free, Sugawara was able to reach back with his left hand and grab his phone. The sender's ID read:
大地
"Daichi?" Sugawara mumbled with a questionable look.
"Did you say something Koushi?" You called from the front of the room.
"Ah, no." His eyes widened when he opened the text and read it. Before his eyes, were words that simply stated:
"I'm coming to pick you up soon, so wait for me. "
"He's coming here? Now?! But why?!"
"Who's coming?"
"(f/n)!" You stood up right behind Sugawara. Your head was just a few centimeters from resting on his shoulder. You're eyes were peering down over his shoulder and into his text message, trying to read. Sugawara immediately moved away from you and hid his phone behind his back so that you wouldn't be able to read anything.
"N-no one is coming." Sugawara tried to laugh it off.
"Hm?" You cocked your head to your side in question of his behavior.
"It's nothing, really." Sugawara tried to smile with a small chuckle, trying to kill off your suspicion. After a little pause between you two, Sugawara turned back around and held his phone up close to his face, while his thumbs were speeding away on the keyboard to text him back. 'Don't come here!' But just as Sugawara was about to send the text, his phone buzzed once again. It was another text message.
"I'm really close to the school. I'll be there in about a minute. "
"'A minute'!?" Sugawara's eyes nearly popped out his head at the read of the knew message.
"'A minute'?" You repeated in question to his out burst.
"E-eh? I-it's nothing." Sugawara was sweating; hard. "(f/n), why don't you and Yujiro go on home. I'll finish up the cleaning here."
"Why all of a sudden? Is there something wrong? You're sweating a lot Koushi."
"Am I?" Sugawara tried to laugh off the awkwardness again, but failed. Just then the sound of the door being knocked on filled both of your ears. Sugawara's eyes opened up wider as he moved his head to the side so that he could see the person knocking on it. The door was glass, so you could see immediately who it was with just a glance. Your eyes followed Sugawara's head and in return looked behind you to see who it was. 'He's here!'
"Hm? I wonder who that is. A handsome young man with short dark hair and looked about the same age as you and Sugawara stood up at the door. He was also about the same height as Renji. 'Wow he's handsome, now that I look at him properly.' "There's no one left to pick up, so I wonder what he could be here for." You turned your body around full and started walking away to the door to open up for the person.
"(f/n), there's something I have to tell you before you open that door!" Sugawara reached his hands out is if he was trying to pull you back without actually touching you.
"What do you mean?" You asked while still walking. When you stood right in front of the door, your hand reached out to the knob and turn it, opening it and letting the handsome man in.
"Good evening." He said with a smile.
"G-good evening." You couldn't help but blush at his manners. It was natural to say something like that. It was said to you everyday by the mothers and fathers that came to the school at the end of the school day. But it was just different when he said it. 'He's practically as tall as Renji.'
"Is Sugawara Koushi still here, at work."
"Koushi?" You looked behind you at the grey haired man. "Um, yes he's right over there, behind me." You pointed. When you stepped back to actually let him in the classroom, he looked behind you and saw the saw Sugawara that he was mentioning to you. "Suga."
"D-Daichi, what are you doing here?" Sugawara started walking from the back up to the front to meet up with you two.
"I finished work early and I though it would be okay to pick you up so we could head over to my place." He replied. "I hope that's okay."
"Sorry to interrupt, but Koushi, who is this?" You asked him.
"(f/n), we need to ta-"
"(f/n)? So you're (f/n)!" The man named Daichi turned around to face you with his hand out for you to shake. "I've heard a lot about you from Suga, it's nice to finally meet you."
"You've...heard about me? But..." You were so confused, but slowly extended out your hand towards him so that your hands would meet and firmly shake.
"Suga didn't tell you?"
'Tell me what?' You just kept looking up at him.
"It's nice to meet you (f/n). I'm Sawamura Daichi, Suga's lover."
"H-hey!" Sugawara hurriedly reached up to cover his mouth before he said anything else, but it was too late. You had already heard. Blush was dusted across his face as he realized he was too late.
Everything came to a complete pause and everything was silent. "Huh?" You blinked. "Hah?!" Your eyes bulged out with slightly creased eyebrows.
'Does she hates gay's?' Daichi thought to himself while his hand was still in contact with yours. The smile wiped off from his face and he looked down at you with unease.
"I was afraid of this." Sugawara sighed.
"Why didn't you tell me you got a new boyfriend!" You let go of Daichi's hand and walked up to Sugawara. You caught him by the collar and started to shake him.
''New'?' He questioned.
"I'm sorry. Forgive me. I was trying to find a good time to tell you. I also wanted to find a good time for you both to meet, but he just ruined everything."
'There is one thing I forgot to mention about my co-worker and also best friend Sugawara. He's bisexual. I didn't find out until my 4 month of working here. When he told me he went both ways, I wasn't really shocked about it. I mean, it's not like he looked that way, but it was like a normal feeling when he told me. I actually felt a bit excited about having a friend that liked both guys and girls, since I'd never had one before, nor met one for that matter.' "I can't believe you Koushi."
"Wait, (f/n), you don't mind our relationship?" Daichi spoke up with a question.
"Huh? Why would I?" You turned your head to look at him. "The only thing I'm shocked about is that this guy kept me in the dark about your relationship." You let go of Sugawara and placed your hands on your hips.
"I'm sorry. I won't do it again."
"*Sigh* You better not. Jeez, and I here I thought we were supposed to let each other know about how were doing in our relationships." Sugawara weakly smiled. "It's very nice to meet you Daichi-san." You turned to Daichi and bowed slightly in respect.
"You as well."
"Well, the place seems to be all cleaned up now," You said while turning back to look at the whole room. "I guess that means we can go home now."
You exhaled and then took off your apron. You went over to the hooks and hung it up. Then you went over to Yujiro who was sitting and sleeping soundly at one of the tables. His little arms helped to support his head as he had it down. His left cheek was squished up against his forearms as his body moved up and down in the seat. He had already had his jacket and bag on, so all you had to do was pick him and go through the door. "Come on, let's go home. I'll see you tomorrow, Koushi." You turned partly to wave at him and Daichi both. "Please take good care of him, okay." You gave a brief smile and turned around to make your exit.
"Bye (f/n)." Koushi waved. All who were left behind in the classroom, were Sugawara himself and his beloved lover Daichi. "Come one, let's go to your place." He said walking away from Daichi to get hi things together. But little did Daichi know, there was blush powdered on Sugawara's cheeks.
"Sure." He smiled and waited until Sugawara was ready to go.
*****
The next morning when you got to school, Kuroo was outside waiting by the doors. He was leaned up against the school itself with his arms crossed and his head down, most likely due to him looking at the concrete. From afar he looked sort of like a creep, but when you got closer to him you could see that something looked like it was troubling him. It had you concerned.
"Kuroo-san?" You called him as you stopped right in front of him. When Kuroo looked up, you were a surprised; there were bags under his eyes with the shadowing of black circles under giving off a restless impression. "Are you alright? Did you even get any sleep last night?"
Kuroo just looked out of it. "No, I couldn't really get to sleep last night, or the night before; something was troubling me the whole time."
"Um--Yujiro, why don't you go inside and wait for mommy. I'll be in right after I finished talking to Kuroo-san."
"Okay! See you later Oniisan, feel better!" When Kuroo managed to give your son a smile back, Yujiro returned the gesture with an even bigger one. You opened the door for Yujiro and he walked inside to meet everyone before you.
Once Yujiro was gone, it was just you two alone. Your smile disappeared and you looked at him once again. "What's wrong?" Your tone sounding concerned. "Tell me."
Kuroo's smile had dispersed as well. "It's about the evening after our date."
'So it was supposed to be a date after all.' You thought. "Did you not see the my number? Should I write it for you again?" You asked. As you went in your bag to get out a piece of paper and pen, Kuroo reached out his hand to grab your arm and stop you.
"No, it's not about the number; I got it."
"So what's the matter?"
Kuroo let of your arm. "Before I pulled out the driveway to go home, there was this car that pulled up to your house, and do you know who was in it? Yujiro's dad."
"Renji...?" You were slightly confused, 'How does he know Renji?' Until it clicked in your head. They had met the same day that you weren't there. "But...what about him."
'Does she really not get it?' "Listen to me (f/n), I really like you and nowhere near as 'just friends', I mean what I say when I say that too." You couldn't help but find yourself blushing at his words. "And it's not just you that I like, I like Yujiro as well as if he were my own kid." Kuroo leaned off the wall and took 2 steps closer to you. "But if you are, then I want you to tell me....Are you still seeing Yujiro's father?" Kuroo was dead serious in asking you this. His face looked stern with his creased brows. But beneath that stern expression, you sense and see a bit of pain in his eyes. It was pain that, too, affected you. It was more than feeling hurt for a 'friend' or an 'acquaintance'.
'Wait, do he think-' You finally pieced what he was saying together. "No!" You reached out and grabbed onto his uniform's collar.
"!..."
"Ren- Yujiro's father and I, we're divorced." 'How come I fell so desperate...to tell him the truth?'
"If you're divorced, then why did he show up to your house with a whole big bouquet of flowers?"
"He came to my house, saying that he wanted to make things right between us and that he was getting help for the sake of me and Yujiro, but I turned him down. I don't ever want to get in a relationship with him again. 'I don't quite understand it, but I want him to believe me.'
"He's getting 'help'? What does that mean?"
"O-Oh...." You let go of Kuroo's collar and stepped back. "He has an anger problem, so he says he getting anger management for it."
'An anger problem? When I saw him for the first time ever he did looking scary looking, and did have seem to be a bit angry.' "...."
"...." It was now silent between you two. Kuroo wasn't saying anything and it was making you a bit nervous. All of a sudden your cheeks were trapped in between his large warm hands. "Eh?" When your vision was focused, you saw that his features were so close to your face. "W-wha-!" Before you knew it, Kuroo's lips had pressed against yours for a split second. oddly, you squeezed your eyes shut tight afterwards. It was only when he snickered that you opened up your former clenched eyes to witness his smirking mug. "Huh?" 'He kissed me! Just now, his lips--and mine!' You were shocked, internally.
"Thanks for letting me know." His forehead bumped with yours and his brown eyes staring deeply into yours.
"P-please...you're really close." You placed your shaking hands on his chest and tried to push him away from being to close.
"Do you hate it?"
"It's not like I 'hate it'...but....I need to go in for work now." You found it impossible to look him in the eyes anymore. His intense gaze was giving an intense reaction to your heart. The warmth of his breath was hitting your lips and was causing your chest to tighten up, all the while his scent was dancing around in your nostrils and a pink color powdered on your cheeks. His hands moved from your face and he had his arms slip themselves around your waist as he pulled you close against his body. Within every second that he immersed himself with you, the temperature of your body grew higher. Both lips were lingering near each other and wanting to meet, bad. "Kuroo-san...the kids are waiting for me..." You said in a heated, low voice.
"Alright then." Right away, Kuroo let you go and pulled himself away from you.
"...Huh?" 'W-wait a--'
"I don't want to keep you from work, plus I have to go to my job too." He stated. Kuroo started walking past you.
You whipped your head around. "H-hold o-"
"I'll text you tonight." He waved to you and started walking away with his hands shoved down his pants.
After a good minute of just standing there, you walked into the school with a bewildered face. As soon as he saw you, Sugawara came up to you. "What's wrong (f/n)? Did something happen?"
"What just happened?" You asked yourself.
"I don't know...What 'did' happen? That's what I'd like to know.
"Oh my God." You said in steady English.
"(f/n), you're starting to scare me a bit." Sugawara lifted a brow. "What hap-" When Sugawara was about to ask you what happened again, he noticed the blush that was dusted over your cheeks. "Wait, did something happen with Kuroo?" he asked in a whisper close to your ear.
When he asked that your whole face turned red. "N-no! Nothing at all!" Your laugh was nervously forced. "Koushi!" You grabbed up his shirt and apron all together.
"W-what?"
"H-he...He kissed me."
“Renji!” When you looked up, you saw a handsomely groomed Renji with a deep red spread across his cheeks. His eyes were averting your as well. How could you be so careless as to open the door like that without checking first? But it wasn’t really your fault. Renji hadn’t shown his face at your place in almost a month, so of course you would let your guard down. You starred up at him with terror show brightly in your eyes. ‘His cheeks are red. I-is he drunk again?’ You couldn't speak.
“Hey, (f/n)…” He scratched the back of his head with his free hand. “I-Uh…I brought you your favorite flowers. Carnations.”
“Why are you...here…? Everything was just fine…up until now.” You mumbled. You could feel the tears starting to well up in your sockets once again. The past memories of his visits started to flow up within your head. Your words stung Renji a bit, but it was completely understandable. “Please go home!” Two wet streaks started to stream down on either sides of your face. He looked so intimidating and serious and stern, it was scaring you.
“I will, but not without saying this first.”
“What are talking about? Say what?” You trembled out.
“I…I’m getting help.”
“Eh?”
“I’m getting help. I’ve been going to anger management sessions, and it’s helping me, alot.”
“Anger management? You’re lying! You just beat up on and raped me not even a month ago!” You shouted out out in trying to identify his lie.
“I know! That night was just a moment of weakness.” With his loud booming voice echoing in your ears, you flinched. When he saw you do so, he calmed himself down. “Sorry I scared you.”
“Why? Why are you doing this now? What are you trying to do? You don’t show up for about a month, and then you just pop up out of nowhere with my favorite flowers in your hands, saying that you’re getting help!? What are you up to Renji!”
“I’m trying to atone for what I’ve done in the past. I’m trying to make things better between us. I don’t want to be kept away from my son nor you for that matter.”
“’Make things better’? How are you going to ‘make thing better’ between us? Renji, there is no more ‘us’. You threw away ‘us’ the moment you attacked me. You knew what you were doing.”
“I did, you're right." Renji sighed. "I was afraid you were going to say that but I was prepared for it as well. It hurts, but this heartbreak is nothing compared to what I’ve put you through. I just don't want what I've been doing to you to be like that forever. I'm tired of treating you like crap, especially when you're far from it.”
“…Is that all? If so, I’d like you to leave now.” You mumbled while looking down at your feet. You were scared for his reply.
“It’s not all I wanted to tell you, but it is better if I go now. Here, the flowers.” Renji handed you the flowers and you hesitated in reaching out to them, but eventually ended up taking them. "I'll see you around." Renji gave a slight wave to you and backed up out of the door way. He then turned around and started walking off towards his car.
With the door still left open, you started to push it in, but then got closer to watch him leave. Through a medium crack in the door, you saw Renji get in his car and a few seconds later, drive off. As soon as you confirmed that his car was gone and out of sight, you closed the door and locked up. You turned around with your back facing the door and slumped against it. "What the hell was that all about?" You asked yourself with a slight mumble.
*****
As the weekend finished off with no problems, it was time for school again.
"(f/n)~" Sugawara came sneaking up close from behind, as soon as you slipped your apron on over your head. "How was the date?" He whispered with a grin.
"O-oh, it was fine." 'Damn it. I thought he would have forgotten about it already.'
"It was fine?"
"Mm. Fine. Yujiro had a wonderful time as well. He got to ride a lot of rides and even got a stuffed animal from Kuroo-san."
"So you went to the amusement park, huh. But, I'm more worried about if you had a good time or not. Did you?"
"....Mm. I-I did." You looked away, blushing.
"Hm~ So what happened?" With his hands on wither sides of his hips, he leaned over to get a better hear.
"W-we'll discuss it at lunch, Koushi." You pointed over to the rug that the kids were slowly gathering up on. "It's circle time." You slowly backed away from Sugawara with a nervous smile attached to your face. You had a feeling he was going to bombard you with lots of questions come lunch time.
As soon as lunch time came you were over by the teachers cubbies, taking out your lunch so that you could eat. You slipped it out of your bag and turned around to go over to the table. But right then and there, Sugawara was coming towards you at an immense speed. Before you could even have time to react, Sugawara grabbed up your arm and pulled you over to your table.
Sugawara sat you down and went around in front of you to take a seat. With his hands clasped together, and his eyes focused on you, it seemed like he didn't care about his lunch. "Alright Ms. (f/n). Spill it. What happened at the amusement park?"
"N-nothing much."
"Even though it's not that much, something still happened, so tell. I'm guessing by the blush on your cheeks that...he kissed you!"
"N-no!" 'Even though he was planning to do just that.' "I ended up giving him my number."
"You did?! Way to go (f/n)!"
"But then, right after I got home, Renji showed up. He gave me flowers and said that he wanted to make things right between us."
"Yujiro's father?" Sugawara stopped smiling. "*sigh*" He sighed. He unraveled the cloth from the lunchbox and took the top off it. "(f/n), let's not talk about him, okay. We don't need to talk about someone from the past. I just want you to focus on your new future."
"...Alright." You looked down at your un-opened lunch box.
"Hey, what's with that face? You should be happy for yourself."
"Mm."
*****
Later on after school every child had went on home with their parents already. The only ones who were left in the building were you, Yujiro and Sugawara. Being that the kids had a little too much energy today during play time, the room's floor was flooded with all sorts of toys and craft tools. Stuffed animals, cars, dollies, etc. Besides the point, both teachers were left with the job of cleaning up their messy mess.
"Wow, the kids really know how to play." You stated while bending down and picking up a long and red car toy with its little racer inside with your right hand. There was already a whole bunch of toys in your hand; toys that you had previously picked up.
"Don't they." Sugawara said, while walking over to the big toy chest they had in the back of the classroom. He went to chest to go and put down the toys that were filling his arms. But that's a good thing though. Means they're not bored with us."
You chuckled. "You're right. It would be really awkward if they just sat there practically lifeless, like zombies."
Sugawara laughed at the thought of their faces all drained of emotions. "Yeah, that would be-" Right in the middle of Sugawara's sentence, his phone that was laid inside his pocket went off with a buzz. "Hm? A message?" Sugawara looked back behind him and saw the vibration on his left cheek. Since his hands were free, Sugawara was able to reach back with his left hand and grab his phone. The sender's ID read:
大地
"Daichi?" Sugawara mumbled with a questionable look.
"Did you say something Koushi?" You called from the front of the room.
"Ah, no." His eyes widened when he opened the text and read it. Before his eyes, were words that simply stated:
"I'm coming to pick you up soon, so wait for me. "
"He's coming here? Now?! But why?!"
"Who's coming?"
"(f/n)!" You stood up right behind Sugawara. Your head was just a few centimeters from resting on his shoulder. You're eyes were peering down over his shoulder and into his text message, trying to read. Sugawara immediately moved away from you and hid his phone behind his back so that you wouldn't be able to read anything.
"N-no one is coming." Sugawara tried to laugh it off.
"Hm?" You cocked your head to your side in question of his behavior.
"It's nothing, really." Sugawara tried to smile with a small chuckle, trying to kill off your suspicion. After a little pause between you two, Sugawara turned back around and held his phone up close to his face, while his thumbs were speeding away on the keyboard to text him back. 'Don't come here!' But just as Sugawara was about to send the text, his phone buzzed once again. It was another text message.
"I'm really close to the school. I'll be there in about a minute. "
"'A minute'!?" Sugawara's eyes nearly popped out his head at the read of the knew message.
"'A minute'?" You repeated in question to his out burst.
"E-eh? I-it's nothing." Sugawara was sweating; hard. "(f/n), why don't you and Yujiro go on home. I'll finish up the cleaning here."
"Why all of a sudden? Is there something wrong? You're sweating a lot Koushi."
"Am I?" Sugawara tried to laugh off the awkwardness again, but failed. Just then the sound of the door being knocked on filled both of your ears. Sugawara's eyes opened up wider as he moved his head to the side so that he could see the person knocking on it. The door was glass, so you could see immediately who it was with just a glance. Your eyes followed Sugawara's head and in return looked behind you to see who it was. 'He's here!'
"Hm? I wonder who that is. A handsome young man with short dark hair and looked about the same age as you and Sugawara stood up at the door. He was also about the same height as Renji. 'Wow he's handsome, now that I look at him properly.' "There's no one left to pick up, so I wonder what he could be here for." You turned your body around full and started walking away to the door to open up for the person.
"(f/n), there's something I have to tell you before you open that door!" Sugawara reached his hands out is if he was trying to pull you back without actually touching you.
"What do you mean?" You asked while still walking. When you stood right in front of the door, your hand reached out to the knob and turn it, opening it and letting the handsome man in.
"Good evening." He said with a smile.
"G-good evening." You couldn't help but blush at his manners. It was natural to say something like that. It was said to you everyday by the mothers and fathers that came to the school at the end of the school day. But it was just different when he said it. 'He's practically as tall as Renji.'
"Is Sugawara Koushi still here, at work."
"Koushi?" You looked behind you at the grey haired man. "Um, yes he's right over there, behind me." You pointed. When you stepped back to actually let him in the classroom, he looked behind you and saw the saw Sugawara that he was mentioning to you. "Suga."
"D-Daichi, what are you doing here?" Sugawara started walking from the back up to the front to meet up with you two.
"I finished work early and I though it would be okay to pick you up so we could head over to my place." He replied. "I hope that's okay."
"Sorry to interrupt, but Koushi, who is this?" You asked him.
"(f/n), we need to ta-"
"(f/n)? So you're (f/n)!" The man named Daichi turned around to face you with his hand out for you to shake. "I've heard a lot about you from Suga, it's nice to finally meet you."
"You've...heard about me? But..." You were so confused, but slowly extended out your hand towards him so that your hands would meet and firmly shake.
"Suga didn't tell you?"
'Tell me what?' You just kept looking up at him.
"It's nice to meet you (f/n). I'm Sawamura Daichi, Suga's lover."
"H-hey!" Sugawara hurriedly reached up to cover his mouth before he said anything else, but it was too late. You had already heard. Blush was dusted across his face as he realized he was too late.
Everything came to a complete pause and everything was silent. "Huh?" You blinked. "Hah?!" Your eyes bulged out with slightly creased eyebrows.
'Does she hates gay's?' Daichi thought to himself while his hand was still in contact with yours. The smile wiped off from his face and he looked down at you with unease.
"I was afraid of this." Sugawara sighed.
"Why didn't you tell me you got a new boyfriend!" You let go of Daichi's hand and walked up to Sugawara. You caught him by the collar and started to shake him.
''New'?' He questioned.
"I'm sorry. Forgive me. I was trying to find a good time to tell you. I also wanted to find a good time for you both to meet, but he just ruined everything."
'There is one thing I forgot to mention about my co-worker and also best friend Sugawara. He's bisexual. I didn't find out until my 4 month of working here. When he told me he went both ways, I wasn't really shocked about it. I mean, it's not like he looked that way, but it was like a normal feeling when he told me. I actually felt a bit excited about having a friend that liked both guys and girls, since I'd never had one before, nor met one for that matter.' "I can't believe you Koushi."
"Wait, (f/n), you don't mind our relationship?" Daichi spoke up with a question.
"Huh? Why would I?" You turned your head to look at him. "The only thing I'm shocked about is that this guy kept me in the dark about your relationship." You let go of Sugawara and placed your hands on your hips.
"I'm sorry. I won't do it again."
"*Sigh* You better not. Jeez, and I here I thought we were supposed to let each other know about how were doing in our relationships." Sugawara weakly smiled. "It's very nice to meet you Daichi-san." You turned to Daichi and bowed slightly in respect.
"You as well."
"Well, the place seems to be all cleaned up now," You said while turning back to look at the whole room. "I guess that means we can go home now."
You exhaled and then took off your apron. You went over to the hooks and hung it up. Then you went over to Yujiro who was sitting and sleeping soundly at one of the tables. His little arms helped to support his head as he had it down. His left cheek was squished up against his forearms as his body moved up and down in the seat. He had already had his jacket and bag on, so all you had to do was pick him and go through the door. "Come on, let's go home. I'll see you tomorrow, Koushi." You turned partly to wave at him and Daichi both. "Please take good care of him, okay." You gave a brief smile and turned around to make your exit.
"Bye (f/n)." Koushi waved. All who were left behind in the classroom, were Sugawara himself and his beloved lover Daichi. "Come one, let's go to your place." He said walking away from Daichi to get hi things together. But little did Daichi know, there was blush powdered on Sugawara's cheeks.
"Sure." He smiled and waited until Sugawara was ready to go.
*****
The next morning when you got to school, Kuroo was outside waiting by the doors. He was leaned up against the school itself with his arms crossed and his head down, most likely due to him looking at the concrete. From afar he looked sort of like a creep, but when you got closer to him you could see that something looked like it was troubling him. It had you concerned.
"Kuroo-san?" You called him as you stopped right in front of him. When Kuroo looked up, you were a surprised; there were bags under his eyes with the shadowing of black circles under giving off a restless impression. "Are you alright? Did you even get any sleep last night?"
Kuroo just looked out of it. "No, I couldn't really get to sleep last night, or the night before; something was troubling me the whole time."
"Um--Yujiro, why don't you go inside and wait for mommy. I'll be in right after I finished talking to Kuroo-san."
"Okay! See you later Oniisan, feel better!" When Kuroo managed to give your son a smile back, Yujiro returned the gesture with an even bigger one. You opened the door for Yujiro and he walked inside to meet everyone before you.
Once Yujiro was gone, it was just you two alone. Your smile disappeared and you looked at him once again. "What's wrong?" Your tone sounding concerned. "Tell me."
Kuroo's smile had dispersed as well. "It's about the evening after our date."
'So it was supposed to be a date after all.' You thought. "Did you not see the my number? Should I write it for you again?" You asked. As you went in your bag to get out a piece of paper and pen, Kuroo reached out his hand to grab your arm and stop you.
"No, it's not about the number; I got it."
"So what's the matter?"
Kuroo let of your arm. "Before I pulled out the driveway to go home, there was this car that pulled up to your house, and do you know who was in it? Yujiro's dad."
"Renji...?" You were slightly confused, 'How does he know Renji?' Until it clicked in your head. They had met the same day that you weren't there. "But...what about him."
'Does she really not get it?' "Listen to me (f/n), I really like you and nowhere near as 'just friends', I mean what I say when I say that too." You couldn't help but find yourself blushing at his words. "And it's not just you that I like, I like Yujiro as well as if he were my own kid." Kuroo leaned off the wall and took 2 steps closer to you. "But if you are, then I want you to tell me....Are you still seeing Yujiro's father?" Kuroo was dead serious in asking you this. His face looked stern with his creased brows. But beneath that stern expression, you sense and see a bit of pain in his eyes. It was pain that, too, affected you. It was more than feeling hurt for a 'friend' or an 'acquaintance'.
'Wait, do he think-' You finally pieced what he was saying together. "No!" You reached out and grabbed onto his uniform's collar.
"!..."
"Ren- Yujiro's father and I, we're divorced." 'How come I fell so desperate...to tell him the truth?'
"If you're divorced, then why did he show up to your house with a whole big bouquet of flowers?"
"He came to my house, saying that he wanted to make things right between us and that he was getting help for the sake of me and Yujiro, but I turned him down. I don't ever want to get in a relationship with him again. 'I don't quite understand it, but I want him to believe me.'
"He's getting 'help'? What does that mean?"
"O-Oh...." You let go of Kuroo's collar and stepped back. "He has an anger problem, so he says he getting anger management for it."
'An anger problem? When I saw him for the first time ever he did looking scary looking, and did have seem to be a bit angry.' "...."
"...." It was now silent between you two. Kuroo wasn't saying anything and it was making you a bit nervous. All of a sudden your cheeks were trapped in between his large warm hands. "Eh?" When your vision was focused, you saw that his features were so close to your face. "W-wha-!" Before you knew it, Kuroo's lips had pressed against yours for a split second. oddly, you squeezed your eyes shut tight afterwards. It was only when he snickered that you opened up your former clenched eyes to witness his smirking mug. "Huh?" 'He kissed me! Just now, his lips--and mine!' You were shocked, internally.
"Thanks for letting me know." His forehead bumped with yours and his brown eyes staring deeply into yours.
"P-please...you're really close." You placed your shaking hands on his chest and tried to push him away from being to close.
"Do you hate it?"
"It's not like I 'hate it'...but....I need to go in for work now." You found it impossible to look him in the eyes anymore. His intense gaze was giving an intense reaction to your heart. The warmth of his breath was hitting your lips and was causing your chest to tighten up, all the while his scent was dancing around in your nostrils and a pink color powdered on your cheeks. His hands moved from your face and he had his arms slip themselves around your waist as he pulled you close against his body. Within every second that he immersed himself with you, the temperature of your body grew higher. Both lips were lingering near each other and wanting to meet, bad. "Kuroo-san...the kids are waiting for me..." You said in a heated, low voice.
"Alright then." Right away, Kuroo let you go and pulled himself away from you.
"...Huh?" 'W-wait a--'
"I don't want to keep you from work, plus I have to go to my job too." He stated. Kuroo started walking past you.
You whipped your head around. "H-hold o-"
"I'll text you tonight." He waved to you and started walking away with his hands shoved down his pants.
After a good minute of just standing there, you walked into the school with a bewildered face. As soon as he saw you, Sugawara came up to you. "What's wrong (f/n)? Did something happen?"
"What just happened?" You asked yourself.
"I don't know...What 'did' happen? That's what I'd like to know.
"Oh my God." You said in steady English.
"(f/n), you're starting to scare me a bit." Sugawara lifted a brow. "What hap-" When Sugawara was about to ask you what happened again, he noticed the blush that was dusted over your cheeks. "Wait, did something happen with Kuroo?" he asked in a whisper close to your ear.
When he asked that your whole face turned red. "N-no! Nothing at all!" Your laugh was nervously forced. "Koushi!" You grabbed up his shirt and apron all together.
"W-what?"
"H-he...He kissed me."
CHapter 7
"He kissed me."
"Huh?..." Sugawara tilted his head to the side. It took him a few seconds before he could actually process what you were saying to him. "H-he kissed you?!"
"Shh not so loud!" You covered his mouth with your hand. Your eyes went over to the kids, hoping they wouldn't get curious and come over. When you saw that they were all still playing and talking together you looked back at him and huffed out a sigh. You took your hand away from his mouth and put it down.
"S-sorry." He sweat dropped and lowered his voice so that you guys were talking in secret again. "But he kissed you? When?"
"Just now, sort of..." You tried to reclaim your composure.
"What does 'sort of' mean?" He crossed his arms.
"'Sort of' meaning the first time he pecked my lips and the second, he didn't kiss me at all. I was toyed with." You began to remember every single detail of what had happened out there and the blush wouldn't stop rising. You took your hand and started pulling on the collar of your shirt away and to you chest to fan yourself. Your body felt so hot that you had to cool yourself down bit.
"So he peaked you on the lips, huh."
"Y-yeah." You confirmed it once again.
"So...did you like it?" Sugawara had a wide smirk and moved his eyebrows up and down to most likely suggest something.
"Did I 'like' it?!" Your face turned completely rose red. "Well...there wasn't really anything to 'like' since it happened so fast." 'But I will admit that I did want the last kiss earlier. But can I even call it kiss, since it didn't even happen.'
"Well it seems you're really warming up to him if it means that you're letting go on and do something like that, and get away with it."
"What?!" 'He-he does have sort of point. I think normally I would have maybe hit him in the face or least pushed him away.'
"Don't worry, I won't make you blush anymore than this." Sugawara raised his hands up to your cheeks and pinched them. Then he proceeded in stretching them out. The silly face that he was making you do made him chuckled. "We'll talk more at lunch." He let go of both cheeks at the same time and they snapped back with a bit of a jiggle. "Haha. You're cheeks are so soft." He noted. "It's cute."
"Fine....And thank you." You puffed out your cheeks and Sugawara laughed some more. Later on when lunch came you both talked some more about it. Then at the end of the end of the day you went home and began to cook dinner. Both you and Yujiro were fed and afterwards, you took a bath with him and put him to bed. Finally you went to bed. Just beside you on the bed was your phone and you gave it good look before you pulled the covers over you. You thought about Kuroo and couldn't help but blush a bit. All of a sudden, you phone went off with a buzz. it was a text message. You popped up and grabbed it. The caller ID read: 黒尾
"Kuroo-san." You propped your self up with your elbow dug into your pillow. You went to your messages and saw his message pop up on your screen.
"(f/n), are you awake?" It read.
"He's lucky. I almost went to sleep and didn't see his text. You "Yes, Kuroo-san. I'm awake." You replied.
"That's good. I really had an urge to talk you."
"Is that so."
"Yeah. Hope I'm not keeping your from sleep though."
You smiled. 'He's so thoughtful.' "No its fine. I'm not that tired anyways. Plus, I like talking to you."
"Well, isn't that great to hear. I don't think I can stop smiling right now."
"He's smiling?" You chuckled a bit to yourself and continued to text him. You and Kuroo kept talking for a good 3 hours before you had gotten tired and went to sleep. Little did you know, when you were asleep there was a smile on your face. It most likely due to the fact that you and him had a great conversation.
The next day at school when it 10 minutes into lunchtime, the doorbell to the school rang. "I wonder who that could be." Sugawara said with a stuffed mouth and puffed out cheeks.
"I'll get it." You took the napkin that was sitting neatly on your lap and took it up. You took the napkin and put it to your mouth where you wiped your mouth of any food. You then slid out of the bench that you two were sitting on and stood up. You started walking towards the door. When your vision actually focused on the door, you could see the person. When you saw their clothes, you got a bit curious. 'Doesn't that look like Kuroo-san's uniform, from work.' You thought. And when you looked up the person's face, your eyes widened. It was Kuroo. You could a see one side of his lip tug up into a smirk. 'What is he doing here?' You go to the door and pulled the door open. "Kuroo-san, what are you doing here?" You asked him.
"Let's talk outside." He pointed with his thumb behind him.
You followed Kuroo outside and propped your body up against the school while he stood away to talk. "So, what are you doing here?" Your right hand came to your left arm and you began to rub it, as if it were cold. You had lost all contact with Kuroo's eyes when you took the option to look down to the ground.
Kuroo shrugged his shoulder. "I just wanted to see you face."
"You wanted to see my face? That's all?" You couldn't help but blush a bit.
"Not only that, but I just wanted to know if we were still on for tomorrow night."
"You couldn't ask me over the phone."
"Nope, like I said, I had to see you." He stepped closer. The size of your cheeks were getting bigger while the color was turning darker. You had averted your eyes away from his. "What's wrong?" Kuroo took a few step closer to you and placed his hand under you chin. He lifted your head up so you were no longer looking to the ground, but to his eyes. "I don't like seeing that pretty face of yours frowning."
"I don't think I can go with you after all."
"What? Why not?" He retracted his hand away from you chin and looked at you with worry.
"I don't have anyone who can watch Yujiro."
"Really? You can't ask you friend?"
"No. I don't want to ask him because he has a life of his own. I can't keep asking him to look after Yujiro while I run off somewhere."
"*Sigh* I guess I understand." Kuroo gave a big sigh and shoved his hands down his pockets. "I guess we'll have to do it another time then."
"I guess so." You looked down again.
"Don't look so upset that you can't go on a date with me."
"I'm not upset!" You shot your head to look back up at him and deny him. You puffed out your cheeks once more.
"If you're not upset then why are you puffing out your cheeks like that at me." He smiled.
"Because of what you just said obviously!"
"Fine, if you're not upset then smile for me."
"Smile? I can't just smile on the spot just because you asked for it."
"Then should I make you smile?"
"? And how do you expect to make me smile?" You crossed your arms.
"Like this." Kuroo raised his arms up and started to tickle you. Immediately you busted out into laughter from the squirming of his fingers that moved all over you stomach. "See, look at that. You have a big and bright smile on your face."
"O-okay! Hahaha! You can stop now!" Right away Kuroo stopped his tickling on you. You sighed and then chuckled a bit. When you looked up again, you saw that he was way closer than before. Like 'his face was seriously close to yours' closer. As your eyes shifted to look him directly in the eyes, you ended up getting blush all over you cheeks. 'Why is he looking at me like that?' You could sense a warm feeling coming from his eyes and it was making your heart beat way more than its normal rate. 'The looks in his eyes, it's so gentle and warm. Soft but passionate.' As you went on, your heart sped up. 'Why can't I look away from them? Why can't I-' Just as you were in mid thought, Kuroo made his move and put his lips over yours. This kiss was definitely not a peck. Kuroo took his hands and firmly placed them on your waist, bringing you closer to him. 'He-he kissing me again!' Though Kuroo's eyes were closed, yours were not. But they soon would be. 'Wow his lips feel...really nice.' Your eyelids began to lower. 'And his body...I can feel the heat. So warm.' Your eyelids came down completely and you were now getting into the kiss. 'Ah...I haven't been kissed like this...in so long.' Just as you finished that thought, Kuroo slowly pulled away. Both of your eyes opening at the same time.
"That was good," Kuroo gently rested his forehead on yours while your cheeks continued to burn. His orbs focused solely on yours without a single waver. "Wasn't it." You slowly and silently nodded. "I'd like to do that again, but I don't want to keep you from lunch any longer. Plus, I have to go back to work in about a minute or so. I'll text you later tonight."
"Yes." Was all you could say after that kiss. it wasn't as intense as you thought it would be, but it still felt breath taking because of it's meaning.
"Oh, and your lunch is good today." Kuroo said with a wave and started walking across the street.
"Eh? What is he talking about? How does he know what I..." 'W-wait! I just had lunch! So that means he tasted what I was eating just now in the kiss!' You clutched the sides of your head and started to shake your head from side to side, as if the world were ending. 'Ahh~ How embarrassing! Seriously!' As soon as you walked in, Sugawara's grinning features were the first thing you saw. "What is it?"
"What happened out there?" He asked. "Was it something urgent?"
"Oh no...it was nothing. He just wanted to ask me something."
"I didn't seem like he just wanted to 'ask' you something."
"What are you talking about?" You asked him with a question of your own. But Sugawara didn't proceed in saying anything else. You started to sweat a bit. "He really did ask me something. It wan't anything too important...really."
"Was that really all he did?" Sugawara stepped closer to you with a knowingly grin.
"'All he did'?" You were slightly confused. But Sugawara just waited for you to catch onto what he was leading on about, which you eventually did. Your whole face was overcome with a heavy shading of red. You grabbed Sugawara's arm and pulled him aside to the other side if the classroom. "Did you spy on us?!"
"I wouldn't exactly call it 'spying'; I'd rather recognize it as noticing." Sugawara grinned. "And boy did I notice some stuff. Are you sure you two aren't going out? You looked just like a lovey-dovey couple."
"We're not going out! And by the way, that kiss was all his doing. I was completely caught off guard by it."
"Didn't look that way to me." Sugawara continued to snicker in silence.
As you were still blushing red at his teasing, you tried to find a way to convince him otherwise of something else. But instead of finding something else to say your eyes laid on something even more interesting to bring up. It was a good a comeback. "Hm~ Should you really be worrying about my business, Koushi." You smirked.
Sugawara stopped snickering and looked at you, confused. "What do you mean?"
"While you're worried about my business, you're just letting yours show, aren't you. Clear. As. Day." You reached out to Sugawara's right collar and peeled it back to reveal his neck which in return showed a small red mark on the same side. It was the 'comeback' which had caught your eye earlier. Sugawara then realized what you were on about and started blushing himself. He quickly reached his hand up to cover his neck so that you wouldn't see it anymore. "I wonder who left that pretty little mark on your skin. And in such an obvious, yet particular place." You jested.
"Sh-shut up you." Sugawara looked away from your eyes.
"Could the owner of it possibly be Daichi-san?" Sugawara flinched and then had a drop of sweat run down his face. "I'm right aren't I." You're smirk gradually transformed into a grin. Sugawara blushed deeper.
"Alright, alright. I get it." He chuckled. "I won't utter not one word to anyone about this."
"Ha ha, neither will I."
The next day, in the evening, after you finished cooking and cleaning you ended up sitting at the kitchen table, doing nothing in particular; just sitting and thinking. Your back was against the chair and you had your hands clasped together lazily in your lap. Yujiro was in the next room- the living room- watching his shows; "The Color Rangers". It was one of his favorites. You could hear him singing along to the theme song, and you smiled out of amusement. But that smile soon disappeared when you thought about your missed plans for this evening. Your head went back so that you could look up at the ceiling and give a sigh. 'I was actually looking forward to our date this evening. And I'm sure Kuroo-san is just as glum right now. But as his mother, I have to take care of Yujiro. I can't but him before anyone.' You set your head straight once again and sighed once again.
Your ears perked up a bit when you heard light padding walking across the floor, and coming towards the kitchen. Your eyes moved to the right where you saw piece of a face sticking out from behind the wall at you. "Mama? Are you okay?" Yujiro stepped out into the open where you could see his whole body.
"Ah! Mama's okay." You smiled. 'Was a sighing that loud?' You unclasped your hand and used your right hand to pat on your lap. "Come over here." Yujiro perked up and ran over towards you. His hand rested on your thigh and you moved your hands over so that you scoop him up from under his arms.
"I love when you're smiling mama, 'cuz you have the prettiest smile in whooole world!"
"Yujiro." You sat Yujiro down comfortably on your lap and snuggled up against him. Your cheeks rubbed against his and you could hear his cute laughter in your ear.
"Mama you're tickling me." He laughed out.
"Ah~ What an incredibly adorable son I have. You're such a sweet talker."
"What does that mean?" He asked you in all his innocence.
"You don't have to worry about it until your older." You rubbed your nose against his sweetly.
"'Kay!" He beamed a smile in your direction. Just after his warming smile, the doorbell rang. You both looked over to the door.
"Yujiro, go back and watch t.v." You had a feeling you knew who was on the other side of that door.
"Okay mama." Yujiro jumped off your lap and ran into the living room to finish watching his show, like you said. When you were sure Yujiro had gone into the living room, you pushed back your chair and got up. You walked down the hall towards the door and stopped right in front of it when you got to it. You took a deep breath and reached out your hand to unlock the door. When you pulled the door back it revealed the exact person who you thought it was.
"Renji." There was bit of fright in your body, but you tried to be as brave as possible.
"(f/n), good evening."
"...What do you want? Why are you here?"
"I know it may sound a bit weird but," Renji rubbed the back of his neck as if it were pained. "I just wanted to see you and Yujro." He put his hand down.
You folded your arms and looked away from him. "....Yujiro." You called him over. Yujiro got up from watching t.v once again and ran over to where your voice was heard.
"Papa!" Yujiro dashed over to his father and jumped on his leg.
Renji looked down at his clinging son and smiled. "Hey, Yujiro." Renji tussled his hair and picked him up in his arms so that they could equally look each other in the eye. "You've been good for your mom?"
"Yes!"
"That's a good boy." Renji moved Yujiro's loose locks away from his forehead and leaned over to kiss it.
"Papa are you doing well?" Yujiro asked.
Renji smiled weakly as the question. "I am...I'm doing my best."
"Then that's good!" Yujiro beamed a smile to his father and Renji felt his heart melt. "Do you want to watch The Color Rangers with me?!"
"I uh...I don't know. It's up to your mother, and I'm sure she doesn't want me inside."
'What's with him? Why is he acting all innocent like this? Is trying to get me to lower my guard down or something?'
"Mama, Papa can't watch The Color Rangers with me?" Yujiro turned to look at you with a sad and pouted face.
"Uh..." You didn't know how to answer him. You really didn't want Renji in your home, but you didn't want to see Yujiro sad. "I-I don't mind." You had to give in.
"!" Renji eyes widened up, along with Yujiro at your answer. 'Seriously? I thought she'd say no.'
"Come on Papa! Let's go watch!" Renji put Yujiro down and that was when Yujiro stretched his little hand up to grab his fathers big ones. Yujiro started tugging while walking away from the door way. Renji had to kick off his shoes quickly before he stepped into the house fully. He then let himself get dragged away to the living room.
You sighed in defeat and closed your door again, locking it. When you started walking past the living room, you saw that Yujiro had sat Renji down in the middle of the floor and had climbed on top of him, now starting to watch the t.v. "I'm going to take a shower." You told them, but it seems they were too absorbed into the t.v to pay attention. You sighed again and went up the stairs.
It was when Renji heard the shower running that he snapped back to reality. At that moment, your phone buzzed and Renji heard. Since he was close and you were probably going to be long in the shower, he decided to pick it up. "Yujiro, I'll be right back." He told him and lifted Yujiro and put him off beside him. Yujiro looked like he didn't even realize what just happened. Renji stood up and followed the buzzing all the way to the kitchen. He phone your phone sitting on the table, vibrating. He walked in the kitchen and picked it up. He read the ID and creased his brows. "Who's Kuroo?" When he looked at the message his eyebrows shot up.
The message that was sent read: "Do you wanna start planning for our next date since we missed this one?"
'A date? Was she supposed to be going on a date with this Kuroo guy?' Renji's eyes lowered in a sad way, yet he felt obliged to text back.
About 7 minutes later you had stepped out the shower, changed into your pajama's. There was white towel hanging around your neck, which you were at the same time using to dry your hair. You walked down the stairs to check up on the two of them. When you reached the bottom of the stairs, you saw a blur-ish figure on your left. When looked to your left, you saw Renji standing up in the kitchen with a phone in your hand. 'Oh, he must be texting a friend or something. But why in my kitchen.'
You walked in the kitchen and he noticed you. You didn't pay him much attention, since you focused on going to the fridge. When you got to the fridge, you put your hand on the handle and pulled on the fridge door. The door opened and you went inside the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water. You closed the door back and turned around, where you back was leaned up against the fridge. You twisted the cap until you heard a snap. When it did, you kept twisting until the cap was completely off. You put the drink to your mouth and started to drink it. For a split second your eyes looked over to the table to see of your phone was still there. When you saw the space where you left your phone exactly, empty, your eyes doubled back at the phone that he was still holding in his hand and saw that it was your phone. You spit out the water that was held in your mouth. "Why the hell do you have my phone!?" You went up to him and snatch it away from him. You were pissed.
"(f/n), did you have a date with that guy?" Renji turned to you as if he didn't do anything wrong.
"What? What are you talking about?!" You looked at your phone and saw that it was in messages. Messages that were with Kuroo. "!" 'He was texting Kuroo-san!?' "W-what did you-"
"I think you should get ready. You have a date to go on."
"What?!" You looked at the text messages carefully.
"Do you wanna start planning for our next date since we missed this one?"
"Just out of curiosity, where did you plan on taking me?"
"Huh? Oh, to a restaurant. Why?"
"Excuse me, this is Renji, (f/n)'s former husband. It might be really weird that I'm the one texting you but (f/n) is in the shower, that's why I'm answering back in her stead. I'm at her house right now. If you'd still like to take her out tonight then I suggest you come now. If you're date was cancelled because of worrying about our son then it's fine. I'll be watching him for the night so you can take her out. Also, you don't need to respond back to this message."
'Why...Usually he's smash my phone against the floor and try to come choke me while raping me, wanting to dominate me and tell me I was his.' "Why did you send this?" You looked at him. "Tell me." You had to know why.
"I don't want you to miss out on your chance of real happiness. If this date gets you one stop closer to it, then you should go. I'll take care of Yujiro tonight, so go out and have fun." Renji saying what he had to say, left the kitchen with you standing in it. You were so stunned by his answer you couldn't move. "Why are you still standing there, go doll yourself up already." He said from the living room. "I'm sure he's rushing his way over to you now.
"...!" You turned around quickly and rushed upstairs quickly to get ready. About 20 minutes later, the doorbell rang, but you were still getting ready, so Renji took it upon himself to answer the door. As he left Yujiro again, he went to the door and opened it, but not before calling you and telling you he was here.
As Renji unlocked the door, he saw the man who aiming for you. Kuroo. Renji had a stern look on his face as he looked at Kuroo face to face. 'This guy is just about as tall as me.' "...(f/n)'s not ready yet, so you can come inside." 'I feel like I've seen him somewhere though.'Renji turned his back on Kuroo and left to go back to Yujiro. Right at that moment you came down the stairs in a rushed manner. When Renji turned to his left, he saw you and his eyes nearly bulged out their sockets. His cheeks were turning red, going into deeper shades. "(f-f/n)..." He couldn't believe what he was seeing right now. He took in a large gulp as you reached the bottom of the stairs.
"I-Is he here?" You looked to your right and saw Kuroo handsomely dressed. You couldn't stop yourself from blushing as you saw him. "Good evening." You told him and bowed slightly.
"Yeah....Good evening." Kuroo was practically in the same state as Renji. The reason they were looking at you like that was because of how gorgeous you looked in the long all black dress you were wearing. A long split that began from the middle of you thigh. Your black shoes, and the way you had hair had set everything off, in a good way of course. When you sweeped a few locks of your hair to the side, it made their symptoms worse. "Freakin' gorgeous." Kuroo mumbled under his breath.
You walked closer to Kuroo and you both were a blushing mess. "You look really gorgeous." Kuroo told you.
"!" Your shade got deeper. "T-Thank you Kuroo-san." You smiled shyly. "You look very handsome as well.
'Wait, not I know were I've seen this guy before. He's the guy who saved Yujiro.' "...Listen," Renji spoke up and caught the attention of both of you. "From the looks of it you look like a good guy, so I trust that you'll make her happy; way more than I ever could. But if she's not happy then I'll come and kick your ass."
"Renji, was it? You don't have to worry about (f/n)." Kuroo took your hand in his. "Her heart is in good hands."
"Good." Renji cracked a smile.
"!" Your were darting your head back and forth between the two. 'Is this seriously happening!?'
"Huh?..." Sugawara tilted his head to the side. It took him a few seconds before he could actually process what you were saying to him. "H-he kissed you?!"
"Shh not so loud!" You covered his mouth with your hand. Your eyes went over to the kids, hoping they wouldn't get curious and come over. When you saw that they were all still playing and talking together you looked back at him and huffed out a sigh. You took your hand away from his mouth and put it down.
"S-sorry." He sweat dropped and lowered his voice so that you guys were talking in secret again. "But he kissed you? When?"
"Just now, sort of..." You tried to reclaim your composure.
"What does 'sort of' mean?" He crossed his arms.
"'Sort of' meaning the first time he pecked my lips and the second, he didn't kiss me at all. I was toyed with." You began to remember every single detail of what had happened out there and the blush wouldn't stop rising. You took your hand and started pulling on the collar of your shirt away and to you chest to fan yourself. Your body felt so hot that you had to cool yourself down bit.
"So he peaked you on the lips, huh."
"Y-yeah." You confirmed it once again.
"So...did you like it?" Sugawara had a wide smirk and moved his eyebrows up and down to most likely suggest something.
"Did I 'like' it?!" Your face turned completely rose red. "Well...there wasn't really anything to 'like' since it happened so fast." 'But I will admit that I did want the last kiss earlier. But can I even call it kiss, since it didn't even happen.'
"Well it seems you're really warming up to him if it means that you're letting go on and do something like that, and get away with it."
"What?!" 'He-he does have sort of point. I think normally I would have maybe hit him in the face or least pushed him away.'
"Don't worry, I won't make you blush anymore than this." Sugawara raised his hands up to your cheeks and pinched them. Then he proceeded in stretching them out. The silly face that he was making you do made him chuckled. "We'll talk more at lunch." He let go of both cheeks at the same time and they snapped back with a bit of a jiggle. "Haha. You're cheeks are so soft." He noted. "It's cute."
"Fine....And thank you." You puffed out your cheeks and Sugawara laughed some more. Later on when lunch came you both talked some more about it. Then at the end of the end of the day you went home and began to cook dinner. Both you and Yujiro were fed and afterwards, you took a bath with him and put him to bed. Finally you went to bed. Just beside you on the bed was your phone and you gave it good look before you pulled the covers over you. You thought about Kuroo and couldn't help but blush a bit. All of a sudden, you phone went off with a buzz. it was a text message. You popped up and grabbed it. The caller ID read: 黒尾
"Kuroo-san." You propped your self up with your elbow dug into your pillow. You went to your messages and saw his message pop up on your screen.
"(f/n), are you awake?" It read.
"He's lucky. I almost went to sleep and didn't see his text. You "Yes, Kuroo-san. I'm awake." You replied.
"That's good. I really had an urge to talk you."
"Is that so."
"Yeah. Hope I'm not keeping your from sleep though."
You smiled. 'He's so thoughtful.' "No its fine. I'm not that tired anyways. Plus, I like talking to you."
"Well, isn't that great to hear. I don't think I can stop smiling right now."
"He's smiling?" You chuckled a bit to yourself and continued to text him. You and Kuroo kept talking for a good 3 hours before you had gotten tired and went to sleep. Little did you know, when you were asleep there was a smile on your face. It most likely due to the fact that you and him had a great conversation.
The next day at school when it 10 minutes into lunchtime, the doorbell to the school rang. "I wonder who that could be." Sugawara said with a stuffed mouth and puffed out cheeks.
"I'll get it." You took the napkin that was sitting neatly on your lap and took it up. You took the napkin and put it to your mouth where you wiped your mouth of any food. You then slid out of the bench that you two were sitting on and stood up. You started walking towards the door. When your vision actually focused on the door, you could see the person. When you saw their clothes, you got a bit curious. 'Doesn't that look like Kuroo-san's uniform, from work.' You thought. And when you looked up the person's face, your eyes widened. It was Kuroo. You could a see one side of his lip tug up into a smirk. 'What is he doing here?' You go to the door and pulled the door open. "Kuroo-san, what are you doing here?" You asked him.
"Let's talk outside." He pointed with his thumb behind him.
You followed Kuroo outside and propped your body up against the school while he stood away to talk. "So, what are you doing here?" Your right hand came to your left arm and you began to rub it, as if it were cold. You had lost all contact with Kuroo's eyes when you took the option to look down to the ground.
Kuroo shrugged his shoulder. "I just wanted to see you face."
"You wanted to see my face? That's all?" You couldn't help but blush a bit.
"Not only that, but I just wanted to know if we were still on for tomorrow night."
"You couldn't ask me over the phone."
"Nope, like I said, I had to see you." He stepped closer. The size of your cheeks were getting bigger while the color was turning darker. You had averted your eyes away from his. "What's wrong?" Kuroo took a few step closer to you and placed his hand under you chin. He lifted your head up so you were no longer looking to the ground, but to his eyes. "I don't like seeing that pretty face of yours frowning."
"I don't think I can go with you after all."
"What? Why not?" He retracted his hand away from you chin and looked at you with worry.
"I don't have anyone who can watch Yujiro."
"Really? You can't ask you friend?"
"No. I don't want to ask him because he has a life of his own. I can't keep asking him to look after Yujiro while I run off somewhere."
"*Sigh* I guess I understand." Kuroo gave a big sigh and shoved his hands down his pockets. "I guess we'll have to do it another time then."
"I guess so." You looked down again.
"Don't look so upset that you can't go on a date with me."
"I'm not upset!" You shot your head to look back up at him and deny him. You puffed out your cheeks once more.
"If you're not upset then why are you puffing out your cheeks like that at me." He smiled.
"Because of what you just said obviously!"
"Fine, if you're not upset then smile for me."
"Smile? I can't just smile on the spot just because you asked for it."
"Then should I make you smile?"
"? And how do you expect to make me smile?" You crossed your arms.
"Like this." Kuroo raised his arms up and started to tickle you. Immediately you busted out into laughter from the squirming of his fingers that moved all over you stomach. "See, look at that. You have a big and bright smile on your face."
"O-okay! Hahaha! You can stop now!" Right away Kuroo stopped his tickling on you. You sighed and then chuckled a bit. When you looked up again, you saw that he was way closer than before. Like 'his face was seriously close to yours' closer. As your eyes shifted to look him directly in the eyes, you ended up getting blush all over you cheeks. 'Why is he looking at me like that?' You could sense a warm feeling coming from his eyes and it was making your heart beat way more than its normal rate. 'The looks in his eyes, it's so gentle and warm. Soft but passionate.' As you went on, your heart sped up. 'Why can't I look away from them? Why can't I-' Just as you were in mid thought, Kuroo made his move and put his lips over yours. This kiss was definitely not a peck. Kuroo took his hands and firmly placed them on your waist, bringing you closer to him. 'He-he kissing me again!' Though Kuroo's eyes were closed, yours were not. But they soon would be. 'Wow his lips feel...really nice.' Your eyelids began to lower. 'And his body...I can feel the heat. So warm.' Your eyelids came down completely and you were now getting into the kiss. 'Ah...I haven't been kissed like this...in so long.' Just as you finished that thought, Kuroo slowly pulled away. Both of your eyes opening at the same time.
"That was good," Kuroo gently rested his forehead on yours while your cheeks continued to burn. His orbs focused solely on yours without a single waver. "Wasn't it." You slowly and silently nodded. "I'd like to do that again, but I don't want to keep you from lunch any longer. Plus, I have to go back to work in about a minute or so. I'll text you later tonight."
"Yes." Was all you could say after that kiss. it wasn't as intense as you thought it would be, but it still felt breath taking because of it's meaning.
"Oh, and your lunch is good today." Kuroo said with a wave and started walking across the street.
"Eh? What is he talking about? How does he know what I..." 'W-wait! I just had lunch! So that means he tasted what I was eating just now in the kiss!' You clutched the sides of your head and started to shake your head from side to side, as if the world were ending. 'Ahh~ How embarrassing! Seriously!' As soon as you walked in, Sugawara's grinning features were the first thing you saw. "What is it?"
"What happened out there?" He asked. "Was it something urgent?"
"Oh no...it was nothing. He just wanted to ask me something."
"I didn't seem like he just wanted to 'ask' you something."
"What are you talking about?" You asked him with a question of your own. But Sugawara didn't proceed in saying anything else. You started to sweat a bit. "He really did ask me something. It wan't anything too important...really."
"Was that really all he did?" Sugawara stepped closer to you with a knowingly grin.
"'All he did'?" You were slightly confused. But Sugawara just waited for you to catch onto what he was leading on about, which you eventually did. Your whole face was overcome with a heavy shading of red. You grabbed Sugawara's arm and pulled him aside to the other side if the classroom. "Did you spy on us?!"
"I wouldn't exactly call it 'spying'; I'd rather recognize it as noticing." Sugawara grinned. "And boy did I notice some stuff. Are you sure you two aren't going out? You looked just like a lovey-dovey couple."
"We're not going out! And by the way, that kiss was all his doing. I was completely caught off guard by it."
"Didn't look that way to me." Sugawara continued to snicker in silence.
As you were still blushing red at his teasing, you tried to find a way to convince him otherwise of something else. But instead of finding something else to say your eyes laid on something even more interesting to bring up. It was a good a comeback. "Hm~ Should you really be worrying about my business, Koushi." You smirked.
Sugawara stopped snickering and looked at you, confused. "What do you mean?"
"While you're worried about my business, you're just letting yours show, aren't you. Clear. As. Day." You reached out to Sugawara's right collar and peeled it back to reveal his neck which in return showed a small red mark on the same side. It was the 'comeback' which had caught your eye earlier. Sugawara then realized what you were on about and started blushing himself. He quickly reached his hand up to cover his neck so that you wouldn't see it anymore. "I wonder who left that pretty little mark on your skin. And in such an obvious, yet particular place." You jested.
"Sh-shut up you." Sugawara looked away from your eyes.
"Could the owner of it possibly be Daichi-san?" Sugawara flinched and then had a drop of sweat run down his face. "I'm right aren't I." You're smirk gradually transformed into a grin. Sugawara blushed deeper.
"Alright, alright. I get it." He chuckled. "I won't utter not one word to anyone about this."
"Ha ha, neither will I."
The next day, in the evening, after you finished cooking and cleaning you ended up sitting at the kitchen table, doing nothing in particular; just sitting and thinking. Your back was against the chair and you had your hands clasped together lazily in your lap. Yujiro was in the next room- the living room- watching his shows; "The Color Rangers". It was one of his favorites. You could hear him singing along to the theme song, and you smiled out of amusement. But that smile soon disappeared when you thought about your missed plans for this evening. Your head went back so that you could look up at the ceiling and give a sigh. 'I was actually looking forward to our date this evening. And I'm sure Kuroo-san is just as glum right now. But as his mother, I have to take care of Yujiro. I can't but him before anyone.' You set your head straight once again and sighed once again.
Your ears perked up a bit when you heard light padding walking across the floor, and coming towards the kitchen. Your eyes moved to the right where you saw piece of a face sticking out from behind the wall at you. "Mama? Are you okay?" Yujiro stepped out into the open where you could see his whole body.
"Ah! Mama's okay." You smiled. 'Was a sighing that loud?' You unclasped your hand and used your right hand to pat on your lap. "Come over here." Yujiro perked up and ran over towards you. His hand rested on your thigh and you moved your hands over so that you scoop him up from under his arms.
"I love when you're smiling mama, 'cuz you have the prettiest smile in whooole world!"
"Yujiro." You sat Yujiro down comfortably on your lap and snuggled up against him. Your cheeks rubbed against his and you could hear his cute laughter in your ear.
"Mama you're tickling me." He laughed out.
"Ah~ What an incredibly adorable son I have. You're such a sweet talker."
"What does that mean?" He asked you in all his innocence.
"You don't have to worry about it until your older." You rubbed your nose against his sweetly.
"'Kay!" He beamed a smile in your direction. Just after his warming smile, the doorbell rang. You both looked over to the door.
"Yujiro, go back and watch t.v." You had a feeling you knew who was on the other side of that door.
"Okay mama." Yujiro jumped off your lap and ran into the living room to finish watching his show, like you said. When you were sure Yujiro had gone into the living room, you pushed back your chair and got up. You walked down the hall towards the door and stopped right in front of it when you got to it. You took a deep breath and reached out your hand to unlock the door. When you pulled the door back it revealed the exact person who you thought it was.
"Renji." There was bit of fright in your body, but you tried to be as brave as possible.
"(f/n), good evening."
"...What do you want? Why are you here?"
"I know it may sound a bit weird but," Renji rubbed the back of his neck as if it were pained. "I just wanted to see you and Yujro." He put his hand down.
You folded your arms and looked away from him. "....Yujiro." You called him over. Yujiro got up from watching t.v once again and ran over to where your voice was heard.
"Papa!" Yujiro dashed over to his father and jumped on his leg.
Renji looked down at his clinging son and smiled. "Hey, Yujiro." Renji tussled his hair and picked him up in his arms so that they could equally look each other in the eye. "You've been good for your mom?"
"Yes!"
"That's a good boy." Renji moved Yujiro's loose locks away from his forehead and leaned over to kiss it.
"Papa are you doing well?" Yujiro asked.
Renji smiled weakly as the question. "I am...I'm doing my best."
"Then that's good!" Yujiro beamed a smile to his father and Renji felt his heart melt. "Do you want to watch The Color Rangers with me?!"
"I uh...I don't know. It's up to your mother, and I'm sure she doesn't want me inside."
'What's with him? Why is he acting all innocent like this? Is trying to get me to lower my guard down or something?'
"Mama, Papa can't watch The Color Rangers with me?" Yujiro turned to look at you with a sad and pouted face.
"Uh..." You didn't know how to answer him. You really didn't want Renji in your home, but you didn't want to see Yujiro sad. "I-I don't mind." You had to give in.
"!" Renji eyes widened up, along with Yujiro at your answer. 'Seriously? I thought she'd say no.'
"Come on Papa! Let's go watch!" Renji put Yujiro down and that was when Yujiro stretched his little hand up to grab his fathers big ones. Yujiro started tugging while walking away from the door way. Renji had to kick off his shoes quickly before he stepped into the house fully. He then let himself get dragged away to the living room.
You sighed in defeat and closed your door again, locking it. When you started walking past the living room, you saw that Yujiro had sat Renji down in the middle of the floor and had climbed on top of him, now starting to watch the t.v. "I'm going to take a shower." You told them, but it seems they were too absorbed into the t.v to pay attention. You sighed again and went up the stairs.
It was when Renji heard the shower running that he snapped back to reality. At that moment, your phone buzzed and Renji heard. Since he was close and you were probably going to be long in the shower, he decided to pick it up. "Yujiro, I'll be right back." He told him and lifted Yujiro and put him off beside him. Yujiro looked like he didn't even realize what just happened. Renji stood up and followed the buzzing all the way to the kitchen. He phone your phone sitting on the table, vibrating. He walked in the kitchen and picked it up. He read the ID and creased his brows. "Who's Kuroo?" When he looked at the message his eyebrows shot up.
The message that was sent read: "Do you wanna start planning for our next date since we missed this one?"
'A date? Was she supposed to be going on a date with this Kuroo guy?' Renji's eyes lowered in a sad way, yet he felt obliged to text back.
About 7 minutes later you had stepped out the shower, changed into your pajama's. There was white towel hanging around your neck, which you were at the same time using to dry your hair. You walked down the stairs to check up on the two of them. When you reached the bottom of the stairs, you saw a blur-ish figure on your left. When looked to your left, you saw Renji standing up in the kitchen with a phone in your hand. 'Oh, he must be texting a friend or something. But why in my kitchen.'
You walked in the kitchen and he noticed you. You didn't pay him much attention, since you focused on going to the fridge. When you got to the fridge, you put your hand on the handle and pulled on the fridge door. The door opened and you went inside the fridge, grabbing a bottle of water. You closed the door back and turned around, where you back was leaned up against the fridge. You twisted the cap until you heard a snap. When it did, you kept twisting until the cap was completely off. You put the drink to your mouth and started to drink it. For a split second your eyes looked over to the table to see of your phone was still there. When you saw the space where you left your phone exactly, empty, your eyes doubled back at the phone that he was still holding in his hand and saw that it was your phone. You spit out the water that was held in your mouth. "Why the hell do you have my phone!?" You went up to him and snatch it away from him. You were pissed.
"(f/n), did you have a date with that guy?" Renji turned to you as if he didn't do anything wrong.
"What? What are you talking about?!" You looked at your phone and saw that it was in messages. Messages that were with Kuroo. "!" 'He was texting Kuroo-san!?' "W-what did you-"
"I think you should get ready. You have a date to go on."
"What?!" You looked at the text messages carefully.
"Do you wanna start planning for our next date since we missed this one?"
"Just out of curiosity, where did you plan on taking me?"
"Huh? Oh, to a restaurant. Why?"
"Excuse me, this is Renji, (f/n)'s former husband. It might be really weird that I'm the one texting you but (f/n) is in the shower, that's why I'm answering back in her stead. I'm at her house right now. If you'd still like to take her out tonight then I suggest you come now. If you're date was cancelled because of worrying about our son then it's fine. I'll be watching him for the night so you can take her out. Also, you don't need to respond back to this message."
'Why...Usually he's smash my phone against the floor and try to come choke me while raping me, wanting to dominate me and tell me I was his.' "Why did you send this?" You looked at him. "Tell me." You had to know why.
"I don't want you to miss out on your chance of real happiness. If this date gets you one stop closer to it, then you should go. I'll take care of Yujiro tonight, so go out and have fun." Renji saying what he had to say, left the kitchen with you standing in it. You were so stunned by his answer you couldn't move. "Why are you still standing there, go doll yourself up already." He said from the living room. "I'm sure he's rushing his way over to you now.
"...!" You turned around quickly and rushed upstairs quickly to get ready. About 20 minutes later, the doorbell rang, but you were still getting ready, so Renji took it upon himself to answer the door. As he left Yujiro again, he went to the door and opened it, but not before calling you and telling you he was here.
As Renji unlocked the door, he saw the man who aiming for you. Kuroo. Renji had a stern look on his face as he looked at Kuroo face to face. 'This guy is just about as tall as me.' "...(f/n)'s not ready yet, so you can come inside." 'I feel like I've seen him somewhere though.'Renji turned his back on Kuroo and left to go back to Yujiro. Right at that moment you came down the stairs in a rushed manner. When Renji turned to his left, he saw you and his eyes nearly bulged out their sockets. His cheeks were turning red, going into deeper shades. "(f-f/n)..." He couldn't believe what he was seeing right now. He took in a large gulp as you reached the bottom of the stairs.
"I-Is he here?" You looked to your right and saw Kuroo handsomely dressed. You couldn't stop yourself from blushing as you saw him. "Good evening." You told him and bowed slightly.
"Yeah....Good evening." Kuroo was practically in the same state as Renji. The reason they were looking at you like that was because of how gorgeous you looked in the long all black dress you were wearing. A long split that began from the middle of you thigh. Your black shoes, and the way you had hair had set everything off, in a good way of course. When you sweeped a few locks of your hair to the side, it made their symptoms worse. "Freakin' gorgeous." Kuroo mumbled under his breath.
You walked closer to Kuroo and you both were a blushing mess. "You look really gorgeous." Kuroo told you.
"!" Your shade got deeper. "T-Thank you Kuroo-san." You smiled shyly. "You look very handsome as well.
'Wait, not I know were I've seen this guy before. He's the guy who saved Yujiro.' "...Listen," Renji spoke up and caught the attention of both of you. "From the looks of it you look like a good guy, so I trust that you'll make her happy; way more than I ever could. But if she's not happy then I'll come and kick your ass."
"Renji, was it? You don't have to worry about (f/n)." Kuroo took your hand in his. "Her heart is in good hands."
"Good." Renji cracked a smile.
"!" Your were darting your head back and forth between the two. 'Is this seriously happening!?'
Chapter 8
"...Why don't you two get going now." Renji turned his back you and Kuroo and went into the living room.
"W-wait!" You reached out towards Renji, I-I won't be out long, I promise! And please put Yujiro to bed by 8:00!"
"I got it...just go already." Renji sounded like he didn't want to talk anymore, so he kept quiet.
"I'll be back before-"
"(f/n)," Kuroo squeezed your hand in his. As you felt the squeeze, you turned your head to look at him. Kuroo gave you a somewhat stern look. He shook his head and began to speak. "Let's just go." Kuroo turned around and started pulling you along through the door. Before you were completely away from the door, you took the door knob and shoved the door back closed.
"Why'd you stop me from talking?" You asked while he continued to pull you off your property and onto the sidewalk. His car was parked right in front of your house.
"I can somewhat feel his pain."
"What?" You didn't get what he was saying.
"What? You couldn't tell?"
"Tell what?" You pulled your arm back so that you wouldn't be pulled by him any longer. You pulling away from his grip made Kuroo turn back and look at you. You both stood right on the sidewalk in front of his car.
"He's pained."
"Pained? What do you mean?"
"Even though it was completely weird yet nice of him to set up this date for us, he's still pained about the idea of his former wife going out with another guy. The after effects of a lost love is torment to the heart."
"W-wait 'going out'?! We're 'going out'!? Since when?" There was blush all over your cheeks.
"Huh?" Kuroo arched a brow. "Well yeah. We are going out somewhere right now, aren't we." Kuroo saw the red that was increasing in your cheeks then smirked when he understood the reason for it. "Oh, did you think I meant as a couple?" Kuroo got closer to you and put his hands on his hips. He leaned down towards you features to cheek you out even more. When he saw you twitch in response to his question, his smirk curled up even further. You quickly shook your head to prove him wrong. "Yes you did." Kuroo placed a kiss on your forehead.
"Kuroo-san!"
"Whether we end up a couple or not, is all up to you. The decision is in your hands but then again, I don't plan on giving up on you, ever. If necessary, I'll chase you down to the ends of the earth."
"Kuroo-san..." You couldn't stop staring at him.
"Come on, we should go." Kuroo walked a little past you to get closer to the car. Kuroo put his hand on the door handle of the passenger side and pulled the door open for you. "After you."
"...Thank you." You glanced his way for a quick second before taking your foot and stepping inside the car. Once you were inside, Kuroo closed the door and went around the other side to hope in the drivers seat. After you were strapped in, Kuroo pulled the seat belt over his chest and waist and started the car, then driving off.
"They're finally gone." Renji mumbled. Renji stood right beside the window with a small part of the curtain raked back for peeping purposes and a piece of his face sticking out the window. As he witnesses the car drive off, he closed the curtain back and put his back to the wall. His arms came up to his chest and folded while he closed his eyes for thought. A short sigh escaped his lips.
"Bed time!" Yujiro shouted.
"Huh?" Renji opened his eyes looked at Yujiro who had just finished turning off the television and putting away any toys he had out. 'I though he was going to want to stay up a bit longer than this. And putting away his toys; he's so responsible, even for his age.'
"Papa, it's bed time!"
"Oh, right bed time. Alright, let's go." Renji leaned away from the wall and stretched out his hands towards Yujiro. Yujiro ran over and took his fathers hand and they went upstairs together. "Did you already take your bath?"
"Yup! I took one before dinner."
"Alright, then I guess all that's left to do is to put you to bed." As the two got on the floor once more, they turned and entered Yujiro's room. 'My son's room. I haven't been up here once. It's rather clean for a young boys room.'
"Papa!" Yujro ran past Renji and over to a blue and wooden short shelf wear it held children's books. "Can you read me a story to put me to sleep!"
"Huh? Oh, sure. Why don't you chose what you like and I'll read it to you." Renji took a walk further inside his son's room and watched as he took a few books out from the shelf and spread them out on the small round rug right next to his bed. Yujiro kneeled down before the books and began to choose which one he'd like to have his father read to him. "Yujiro, papa has a question for you." Renji took a seat on the edge of Yujiro's bed, hunched over with his elbows on his knees and his hand clasped as he looked down at the 4-year-old.
"What is it papa?" Yujiro stopped momentarily from choosing which book to read, to look up at his father, who was overcome by a sullen look.
"Does mama talk about papa, even just a little?"
"Mm..." Yujiro put a finger to his chin and looked up to think shortly. "Nope."
"....Oh..." Renji felt hurt. "The Oniisan that came to pick mama up, are they together?"
"I don't know, but mama smiles way more when Oniisan is around!" Yujiro grinned and resumed choosing.
"I see..." Thought he felt hurt, there was a weak smile on his face. 'At least she's found some type of happiness. A happiness that doesn't involve me.' But though Renji was thinking this, his heart continued to stab him. 'It's way more than fair that I feel this way...' A tear drop ran down Renji's right cheek. 'But this unbearable grief...really is too much. All the regrets that I have are building up and are all hitting me directly in the heart. I wish that I can take them all back! I swear...if I had one more chance to make things right with you (f/n), then I'd do everything within my power to make sure you knew that you were the most beautiful, needed and important woman in this sinful world. Kiss your soft lips over and over again until they felt numb. I'd make love to you, the right way. Caress you as if you were a fragile peace of glass sitting in the palm of my hand. Leave gentle, heated kisses on every single nook and cranny of your small and petite body. A petite body that would make any man in the right mind, go crazy. But all those opportunities have passed now. She's got someone who can do that for her in my stead.'
"This one! Papa read this one to me!" Yujiro held up the book of his chose and showed Renji. He stood up and walked towards him. Renji lifted up Yujiro from under his arms and rested him down behind him on the bed. He stood up so that he could tuck Yujiro in properly. Renji then took the book from him and began to read.
Meanwhile, you and Kuroo had made it to the restaurant and had just finished ordering. "Wow, this place really is amazing." Your eyes were exploring the restaurants features and all, taking in everything. Everything looked really fancy. "Their food looks really delicious as well. I can't wait to try it." After you finished observing the place, your eyes landed right back on Kuroo. When you did, you noticed that his eyes were completely glued to you, most likely from the moment you arrived. His eyes seemed very much dazed when he looked at you. "Kuroo-san? Why are you staring at me like that?"
"I'm just taking in your beauty, hope there's nothing wrong with that." He said.
"!" You started turning red again. 'Boy, he really knows how to sweet talk.' After a good minute, you were starting to feel a bit anxious because of his staring, and also because it was so quiet between you two. 'I have to talk about something or else he's just going to keep staring until our food comes.' "S-So! Kuroo-san, how's wo-" Before anymore words came out your mouth you stopped. 'Oh shoot! I'm not supposed to talk about work! That's an absolute no-no!' You remembered from when Sugawara called you and gave you a list of do's and don't on what not to do on date's.
"Hm? What's wrong?"
"I was just wondering about what you were like as a kid." You grinned, trying to play off what you were about to say before.
"Huh? oh, well I was pretty much like any other little boy."
"O-Oh..." 'What the hell was I thinking asking him that question!? Koushi would give me a minus 30 for that stupid question.' You looked away from Kuroo. "I-I uh-"
"Your dinner is severed." The waiter that had taken your order earlier came back with both plates of food along with two empty glass cups and a bottle of white whine on a serving dish. He carefully placed them down on the mats in front of you and then the glasses next to them. he then took the whine bottle and popped the cork, pouring the the luscious white whine inside each glass, half away.
"Thank you." You both thanked him. The waiter bowed and then turned to leave for another table.
"K-Kuroo-san." You called him before he could start eating. "I-I'm sorry for asking such an irrelevant question. The truth is, is that I'm nervous right now, and since it was so quiet between us for a while, I just thought that it I should say something to lighten the mood." You confessed.
"You don't need to try or force yourself to talk. I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable earlier, I just couldn't help myself. And it wasn't an irrelevant question." Kuroo smiled and tried to make you feel less tense.
"I'm sorry." You bowed slightly.
"Like I said, don't worry about. Just relax and make yourself comfortable, okay?"
"Yes." You managed to put on a smile and from there on out you and Kuroo had an easy flow of conversation for the rest of the time. You both got to know each other more and it was fun. Though the whole time you felt a warm and light fluttery feeling spread throughout your chest. It was so calming but then again it had your heart riled up. 'It's so nostalgic, this exact feeling. It take me back; it was so long ago. Around the time when I met Renji.' Before you knew it your cheeks were hot and your eyes were completely taken in by Kuroo's very persona.
*****
"That was wonderful." You commented as you and Kuroo walked out of the restaurant. "The food, the service, everything."
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself." Kuroo smiled. You both started walking back to the car, continuing to chat. "I had a wonderful time as well."
"I'm glad I didn't bore you." You chuckled. "I was worried that we could get silent again and that I couldn't keep up the conversation. I haven't gone on a date in so long that it seems like my very first. But, spending time with you makes me realize how fun dating used to be. Ah~ I haven't fun like this in a while. I'm really, really happy I went out with you tonight Kuroo-san. Thank you."
"(f/n), you really mean that?"
"Of course I do. Every moment I spend with you make me happy." You blushed. "And if it's alright with you, then I'd like to continue feeling this way with you." You glanced up at Kuroo who had his eyes opened up wide. 'Did I sound weird just now?'
"Yeah, I don't think I can keep up with this friends stuff anymore." Kuroo took a step closer to you and held you close to his body. You could hear his heart beat pounding against your ear. It was racing, fast. His racing heart, had yours eventually ending up the same way. "(f/n)...I really did fall in love with the right girl. Everything about you is so humble. Your reactions to the things I do are sometimes weird, but that one of the cutest things about you."
You could smell his scent and it was the perfect trigger to make your heart speed up even more; so fast your were close to hyperventilating. 'He smells so good!' You shouted in your head. And just as you thought so, Kuroo pulled away from you so that he could take his hands and use them to cup your soft cheeks. 'Is he going to kiss me?' You wondered. You closed your eyes and waited; sure enough you felt a pair of lips cover yours. Your body was feeling tingly. "Kuroo-san." You called his name as you separated. "His kissed always leave me feeling this way."
"(f/n), I have something for you at my house, do you want to come by to get it."
"Eh? You have something for me at your house? 'But I've never went to his house before so how could he possibly have something for me?' "Alright." You agreed. Kuroo pressed a button on his car keys and the car responded. Kuroo then opened passenger door and let you in. You stepped in the car and waited for Kuroo to get in. Once he got in he but on his seat belt and then drove off to his house.
The drive wasn't to far, about 10 minutes long. When the car stopped you looked out the window at the house he he stopped right in front of and your eyes widened. "Wow, so this is his house." It wasn't like his house was big or anything, but the fact that you got to see house, was amazement all on it's own. Kuroo got out the car and closed the door, he went around to your side and opened your door for you. You stepped out the car and onto the pavement.
"(f/n)."
"Yes?" You looked over at him.
"Before we go inside, I need to tell you something."
"What is it?"
"I lied. I don't have anything for you at my house." He smiled.
"What?! Why did you lie to me?"
"Because I didn't want to let you go home yet. I still want to talk with you more and just be near you all in all."
"O-Oh..." You blushed. "Well, you could have just told me, I would have understood."
"Understanding is one thing, but complying is another. Plus, you have Yujiro at home."
"You right." 'I can't believe I nearly forgot about him.'
"Well, I'll drive you h-"
"I'll come in." You cut him off.
"Huh?" He hadn't heard right.
"I'll come in, but just for a while. I don't want to worry Yujiro or keep Renji from doing what he has to do."
"Right." Still amazed by your answer, Kuroo took out his house keys and started walking up the path to the door. You walked behind him while observing the neighborhood. As you got up to the stairs, Kuroo took his keys and shoved it in the key hole, turned it and opened the door. As Kuroo stepped inside, he took of his shoes and put on a pair of sippers. When he turned back, he noticed that there you were still standing in the doorway.
"Come on in, don't be nervous. I'm not going to do anything to you unless you you want to."
"! O-Okay." You took a step inside and took of you shoes. 'This is a bit nerve wrecking.'
"Here, slippers for you." Kuroo had brought over a pink pair of sippers for you and placed down at you feet.
"Thank you."
"Would you like some tea?"
"No, thank you." You shook your head as you put on the slippers and followed him upstairs.
"Let's go to my room."
"Y-Yes." You looked around at the things in his house as you climbed the stairs. Kuroo soon enough stopped in front of a door and opened it.
"This is my room." He said.
'Wow, it's so normal.' You walked in ahead of him and took everything in. 'It's really neat too. I'd never expect for him to be so 'clean'?'
"(f/n)." Kuroo called your name and hugged you from behind. His arms wrapped around your waist comfortably and his chin rested on your shoulder. Kuroo made a slight shift so that his lips would peck you on your neck.
"K-Kuroo-san..." An ever so slight moan escaped your mouth.
"I've never met a girl like you before. You're so rare in my eyes and every time I see you I can't help myself from wanting you each and every time. I want--No...I need you, now." Kuroo leaned over next to your right ear and whispered into your ear. Goosebumps scattered all over your skin as you felt the heat mainly over your ear and partly down the side of your neck. "Is it alright if I get permission to this body?" Kuroo squeezed tighter around you.
Your heart was about to leap right out your chest. You were speechless. 'Please...please don't tell me this is what he invited me for.' Your body was trembling a bit and your mouth was a bit dry. As the more you got anxious, the more your body started to feel as if it were in a furnace. As the both of you stood there outside in front of the restaurant people passed by, walking in and out of the restaurant, you got a few stares here and there. But all there looks didn't matter at the moment. This moment. You took your hands and lightly pushed Kuroo's hands away from your waist. You took a step forward and looked down towards the floor. Kuroo looked at you with a bit of surprise but then chuckled a bit. "I don't know about that." You shook your head. "I don't think I can, not now."
"It's alright." Kuroo put his hand on top of your head and gave it a brief pat. "I guess this was way too soon. *sigh* Shoot, I feel like I messed up our flow." Kuroo ran his hand through his hair.
You turned around suddenly to look at him. "No, it's not you it's just that--I don't think I'm ready for that yet. Please don't feel like I don't like you! I do it's just that-"
Kuroo's eyes shot open as he caught himself. "Wait, you like me?" He interrupted you with smirked.
"Eh?" Your whole face blew up in red. "I-I--N-not like..." Your mind was racing for something to say, but all the while, Kuroo got closer to you and cupped your cheeks.
"So you like, like me, right?" He smiled. "I hope I'm not misunderstanding anything?"
"I...Whenever I'm near you, my heart feels like it get's closer and closer to exploding each time." You began to confess. You looked downward so that you wouldn't have to see his face. "I like it when you touch me. Your touch feels so gentle yet secure and I know I want those hands to hold me; hold me so close and tightly that it feels like I might suffocate. The way you interact and care for my son it just takes my breathe away. And each time we talked over the phone or texted each other, my heart felt all tingly and warm when you would tell me different things about yourself before we met, and there was a real good feeling floating around in my chest whether I talked to you or just came withing a few inches of you. I questioned it a few times, this feeling, and somewhere deep down I probably knew that I was starting to like you. I'm not saying this is love, but it's probably getting there." 'Jeez am I even making sense right now?'
"Wow, I never expected such a confession from you. Though, I'm extremely happy to hear that you feel that way."
"Really?"
"Of course, since I'm the one who's chasing after you."
"Yeah, I guess." You gave a shy smile but then wiped it away. Kuroo found you looking around the room once again. He had lost contact with your eyes.
'She seems really tense now.' "(f/n), if you don't mind me asking, uh, how did you meet Renji?"
"Eh? Why do you want to know...?" You got a bit suspicious. 'Why the heck would he want to know about my past with Renji. Any guy who like a girl usually wouldn't ask them about their past with their last partner, right?' "
"You don't have to tell me, it's just that you seemed really tense and I wanted to say something to get your mind off any pressure."
"I-...I'll tell you." You looked down and clasped your hands lazily together. "I met Renji back when we were in our 2nd year of high school. Back then, Renji was way more nicer and gentle than he was before we divorced."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Renji was on the baseball team back then and I was the manager of it. Renji was the ace pitcher and a lot of the girls in my school were after him. Almost day after day he would get a love letter from someone. Eventually, he ended up dating a girl. They looked like they were a good and functional couple, until they broke up 3 weeks later. Renji then found himself another girlfriend, that one lasted only a week longer than the last. Then Renji found himself dating another girl. He thought she was the one, telling all his friends that he thought she was the one, but he was wrong. She broke up with him within the second week of them dating."
"All the girls who had fallen for Renji started to slowly leave him. Love letters started coming in and rumors started to spread among the 2nd year girls. 'Renji looks sweet, but he's really a wolf in sheep's clothing.' ; 'Renji beat me the other day' Said a girl in tears. 'I can't believe Renji is a woman beater, he doesn't even seem like the type.'; 'Renj-kun has a really bad temper, stay away from him!' All the girls in our year started avoiding him, except me. One day I saw Renji sitting on the benches of the baseball field, crying. I went up to him and asked him:"
"Renji, what's the matter? Why are crying? Did something happen?"
Flashback
"(f/n), all the girls keep calling me a monster. The one's I've dated keep telling me that I'm the 'worst', I'm 'not gentle' and that I'm 'too rough'. They're all treating me like I'm some devil now. Am I--Am I really a monster like they say!?"
"Renji-kun, you're no monster, from the looks of it, I'd say that you're just a big ol' puppy who just needs a hug." You smiled.
"(f/n)..."
"I don't know why those girls would go around and spread rumors around like that. They should keep things like that to themselves. To treat someone like this is just terrible. Don't worry Renji-kun, I would never dream of treating you like that, your someone precious to me after all. To be honest with you, I think the girls only wanted to be with you because you were a jock, and a really cute one at that. But, I'm not like that. If I were them, I'd only be interested in what's on the inside."
"I only saw Renji for who he really was. And who he really was, wasn't a bad person."
'How could I not notice her before. She's like a guardian angel sent from the very heavens. God, thank you.'
"(f/n), I know it's really sudden but...will you got out with me?"
"Of course. I'm so glad you asked."
"After that day, me and Renji had started dating. When people had heard, the girl in and outside my class came up to me and asked me 'what the heck was wrong with me' and 'why would I even go out with a woman beater like him', telling me that I would 'regret it' but I all answered them the same way:"
"You guys don't even know the real Renji-kun because you were too quick to dump him. The Renji-kun that 'I' know, is a very kind fellow at heart. Taking his flaw of a short temper and making it a weapon against him, you all are horrible and should be ashamed of yourselves. Have you ever thought that his anger just might be his 'Achilles heel'? All in all it's my loss and my gain."
End Flashback
"Instead of helping him out with his problem, they all left him. But they only made it worse. I won't say that our relationship was perfect, but it was a joyous one because every moment I had with him was fun. Eventually the girls were shocked about the fact that me and Renji had made a over a year, then graduated high school together as a couple. I could tell that Renji seemed very happy with our relationship as well, even more happy because I helped him out with some of his anger problems. Eventually we went to the same university and finally took our relationship to 'that' level and then a few month later Renji asked me to marry him. It was kinds fast, but I was happy with him and only him and said yes."
"Within the next month I had gotten pregnant with Yujiro. Renji was ecstatic to become a father that he suggested we find a house together and move in. After Yujiro was born, Renji had gotten himself a part-time job and everything was basically smooth sailing, until 2 years later. All of a sudden Renji snapped and started beating on me. I don't know what the reason was. Maybe it was stress over having to pay so much bills, taxes and such, and then school on top of that. Whatever is was, it had finally broken him and he had taken it out on me.
"What?!" Kuroo had gotten angry.
"I tried to get help for him, but he refused and the abuse continued. One day I had told my older brother, about this because he noticed the bruising on my skin when I went to visit him. And then a few day later...No....I won't go that far." You could feel the pain of past memories dwell up within your heart and it felt like a dagger was piercing right through your very heart. Eventually, tears ended up spilling out the corners of your eyes. "Renji promised me that he would never harm me whether it be emotionally or physically...but he ended up doing both."
"When I realized there was no way for us to fix our marriage, I got a divorce. For some odd reason he had suggested that I get full custody of Yujiro, and from there on out Renji had been stalking me and Yujiro. He broke down my doors and kept having to get both them and the locks replaced, but it was no use. I tried calling police, but he had only threatened me even more. Eventually, I realized that I was living in a pure nightmare. I started getting sensitive to even the slightest touch of people. And when I saw his face I just....I just felt so terrified. My breath always felt short and the only thing I could do was prepare for the worst. Just the thought of his next visit scared me. 'What was it going to be today?' I would say to myself. 'How long would we have to live like this?' I felt helpless and small, weak."
"But the times when I felt like pure dirt and completely weak, I thought of Yujiro. Whenever I look at his smiling face or hear him call me, I get this gentle light feeling deep with my heart and think, 'I have to be strong. No matter what he throws my way, I've got to get back on my feet and stay strong. Yujiro's counting on me. No matter how paralyzed my body will become when he comes inside my house, no matter what he may say or do to me, no matter what...I have to remember that I'm fighting for the two of us.' It was a constant battle that I fight, but I had to remember that I'm not alone. Both he and I...we're in this together. And if me, on my last breath, is what it takes for him to have a bright and safe future, then so be it."
"That's right (f/n), you're not alone."
"Huh?"
"I'm so pissed at Renji that I could pummel his face in this very second. For making you feel like that...for doing all those things to you... But you're not alone, neither of you, because you have me now." Kuroo took your hands in his and gave it a good grip. "I promise that I'll take care of you and Yujiro, from here on out. The both of you are two of the most precious people in my life right now, and I'd feel sick if I'd loose either of you. I love the both of you and if you'll let me, I'll show you what real love is supposed to feel and look like. That's all I want for you."
"Kuroo-san....Kuroo-san!" You threw your arms around him and squeezed him like no tomorrow. You started to bawl out loudly in his ear. How long have you been waiting to hear words like those. Words of reassurance. You were going to cling onto those words for the rest of your life.
"You can cry all you need to for now. I'll be here right by your side forever."
"W-wait!" You reached out towards Renji, I-I won't be out long, I promise! And please put Yujiro to bed by 8:00!"
"I got it...just go already." Renji sounded like he didn't want to talk anymore, so he kept quiet.
"I'll be back before-"
"(f/n)," Kuroo squeezed your hand in his. As you felt the squeeze, you turned your head to look at him. Kuroo gave you a somewhat stern look. He shook his head and began to speak. "Let's just go." Kuroo turned around and started pulling you along through the door. Before you were completely away from the door, you took the door knob and shoved the door back closed.
"Why'd you stop me from talking?" You asked while he continued to pull you off your property and onto the sidewalk. His car was parked right in front of your house.
"I can somewhat feel his pain."
"What?" You didn't get what he was saying.
"What? You couldn't tell?"
"Tell what?" You pulled your arm back so that you wouldn't be pulled by him any longer. You pulling away from his grip made Kuroo turn back and look at you. You both stood right on the sidewalk in front of his car.
"He's pained."
"Pained? What do you mean?"
"Even though it was completely weird yet nice of him to set up this date for us, he's still pained about the idea of his former wife going out with another guy. The after effects of a lost love is torment to the heart."
"W-wait 'going out'?! We're 'going out'!? Since when?" There was blush all over your cheeks.
"Huh?" Kuroo arched a brow. "Well yeah. We are going out somewhere right now, aren't we." Kuroo saw the red that was increasing in your cheeks then smirked when he understood the reason for it. "Oh, did you think I meant as a couple?" Kuroo got closer to you and put his hands on his hips. He leaned down towards you features to cheek you out even more. When he saw you twitch in response to his question, his smirk curled up even further. You quickly shook your head to prove him wrong. "Yes you did." Kuroo placed a kiss on your forehead.
"Kuroo-san!"
"Whether we end up a couple or not, is all up to you. The decision is in your hands but then again, I don't plan on giving up on you, ever. If necessary, I'll chase you down to the ends of the earth."
"Kuroo-san..." You couldn't stop staring at him.
"Come on, we should go." Kuroo walked a little past you to get closer to the car. Kuroo put his hand on the door handle of the passenger side and pulled the door open for you. "After you."
"...Thank you." You glanced his way for a quick second before taking your foot and stepping inside the car. Once you were inside, Kuroo closed the door and went around the other side to hope in the drivers seat. After you were strapped in, Kuroo pulled the seat belt over his chest and waist and started the car, then driving off.
"They're finally gone." Renji mumbled. Renji stood right beside the window with a small part of the curtain raked back for peeping purposes and a piece of his face sticking out the window. As he witnesses the car drive off, he closed the curtain back and put his back to the wall. His arms came up to his chest and folded while he closed his eyes for thought. A short sigh escaped his lips.
"Bed time!" Yujiro shouted.
"Huh?" Renji opened his eyes looked at Yujiro who had just finished turning off the television and putting away any toys he had out. 'I though he was going to want to stay up a bit longer than this. And putting away his toys; he's so responsible, even for his age.'
"Papa, it's bed time!"
"Oh, right bed time. Alright, let's go." Renji leaned away from the wall and stretched out his hands towards Yujiro. Yujiro ran over and took his fathers hand and they went upstairs together. "Did you already take your bath?"
"Yup! I took one before dinner."
"Alright, then I guess all that's left to do is to put you to bed." As the two got on the floor once more, they turned and entered Yujiro's room. 'My son's room. I haven't been up here once. It's rather clean for a young boys room.'
"Papa!" Yujro ran past Renji and over to a blue and wooden short shelf wear it held children's books. "Can you read me a story to put me to sleep!"
"Huh? Oh, sure. Why don't you chose what you like and I'll read it to you." Renji took a walk further inside his son's room and watched as he took a few books out from the shelf and spread them out on the small round rug right next to his bed. Yujiro kneeled down before the books and began to choose which one he'd like to have his father read to him. "Yujiro, papa has a question for you." Renji took a seat on the edge of Yujiro's bed, hunched over with his elbows on his knees and his hand clasped as he looked down at the 4-year-old.
"What is it papa?" Yujiro stopped momentarily from choosing which book to read, to look up at his father, who was overcome by a sullen look.
"Does mama talk about papa, even just a little?"
"Mm..." Yujiro put a finger to his chin and looked up to think shortly. "Nope."
"....Oh..." Renji felt hurt. "The Oniisan that came to pick mama up, are they together?"
"I don't know, but mama smiles way more when Oniisan is around!" Yujiro grinned and resumed choosing.
"I see..." Thought he felt hurt, there was a weak smile on his face. 'At least she's found some type of happiness. A happiness that doesn't involve me.' But though Renji was thinking this, his heart continued to stab him. 'It's way more than fair that I feel this way...' A tear drop ran down Renji's right cheek. 'But this unbearable grief...really is too much. All the regrets that I have are building up and are all hitting me directly in the heart. I wish that I can take them all back! I swear...if I had one more chance to make things right with you (f/n), then I'd do everything within my power to make sure you knew that you were the most beautiful, needed and important woman in this sinful world. Kiss your soft lips over and over again until they felt numb. I'd make love to you, the right way. Caress you as if you were a fragile peace of glass sitting in the palm of my hand. Leave gentle, heated kisses on every single nook and cranny of your small and petite body. A petite body that would make any man in the right mind, go crazy. But all those opportunities have passed now. She's got someone who can do that for her in my stead.'
"This one! Papa read this one to me!" Yujiro held up the book of his chose and showed Renji. He stood up and walked towards him. Renji lifted up Yujiro from under his arms and rested him down behind him on the bed. He stood up so that he could tuck Yujiro in properly. Renji then took the book from him and began to read.
Meanwhile, you and Kuroo had made it to the restaurant and had just finished ordering. "Wow, this place really is amazing." Your eyes were exploring the restaurants features and all, taking in everything. Everything looked really fancy. "Their food looks really delicious as well. I can't wait to try it." After you finished observing the place, your eyes landed right back on Kuroo. When you did, you noticed that his eyes were completely glued to you, most likely from the moment you arrived. His eyes seemed very much dazed when he looked at you. "Kuroo-san? Why are you staring at me like that?"
"I'm just taking in your beauty, hope there's nothing wrong with that." He said.
"!" You started turning red again. 'Boy, he really knows how to sweet talk.' After a good minute, you were starting to feel a bit anxious because of his staring, and also because it was so quiet between you two. 'I have to talk about something or else he's just going to keep staring until our food comes.' "S-So! Kuroo-san, how's wo-" Before anymore words came out your mouth you stopped. 'Oh shoot! I'm not supposed to talk about work! That's an absolute no-no!' You remembered from when Sugawara called you and gave you a list of do's and don't on what not to do on date's.
"Hm? What's wrong?"
"I was just wondering about what you were like as a kid." You grinned, trying to play off what you were about to say before.
"Huh? oh, well I was pretty much like any other little boy."
"O-Oh..." 'What the hell was I thinking asking him that question!? Koushi would give me a minus 30 for that stupid question.' You looked away from Kuroo. "I-I uh-"
"Your dinner is severed." The waiter that had taken your order earlier came back with both plates of food along with two empty glass cups and a bottle of white whine on a serving dish. He carefully placed them down on the mats in front of you and then the glasses next to them. he then took the whine bottle and popped the cork, pouring the the luscious white whine inside each glass, half away.
"Thank you." You both thanked him. The waiter bowed and then turned to leave for another table.
"K-Kuroo-san." You called him before he could start eating. "I-I'm sorry for asking such an irrelevant question. The truth is, is that I'm nervous right now, and since it was so quiet between us for a while, I just thought that it I should say something to lighten the mood." You confessed.
"You don't need to try or force yourself to talk. I'm sorry if I made you feel uncomfortable earlier, I just couldn't help myself. And it wasn't an irrelevant question." Kuroo smiled and tried to make you feel less tense.
"I'm sorry." You bowed slightly.
"Like I said, don't worry about. Just relax and make yourself comfortable, okay?"
"Yes." You managed to put on a smile and from there on out you and Kuroo had an easy flow of conversation for the rest of the time. You both got to know each other more and it was fun. Though the whole time you felt a warm and light fluttery feeling spread throughout your chest. It was so calming but then again it had your heart riled up. 'It's so nostalgic, this exact feeling. It take me back; it was so long ago. Around the time when I met Renji.' Before you knew it your cheeks were hot and your eyes were completely taken in by Kuroo's very persona.
*****
"That was wonderful." You commented as you and Kuroo walked out of the restaurant. "The food, the service, everything."
"I'm glad you enjoyed yourself." Kuroo smiled. You both started walking back to the car, continuing to chat. "I had a wonderful time as well."
"I'm glad I didn't bore you." You chuckled. "I was worried that we could get silent again and that I couldn't keep up the conversation. I haven't gone on a date in so long that it seems like my very first. But, spending time with you makes me realize how fun dating used to be. Ah~ I haven't fun like this in a while. I'm really, really happy I went out with you tonight Kuroo-san. Thank you."
"(f/n), you really mean that?"
"Of course I do. Every moment I spend with you make me happy." You blushed. "And if it's alright with you, then I'd like to continue feeling this way with you." You glanced up at Kuroo who had his eyes opened up wide. 'Did I sound weird just now?'
"Yeah, I don't think I can keep up with this friends stuff anymore." Kuroo took a step closer to you and held you close to his body. You could hear his heart beat pounding against your ear. It was racing, fast. His racing heart, had yours eventually ending up the same way. "(f/n)...I really did fall in love with the right girl. Everything about you is so humble. Your reactions to the things I do are sometimes weird, but that one of the cutest things about you."
You could smell his scent and it was the perfect trigger to make your heart speed up even more; so fast your were close to hyperventilating. 'He smells so good!' You shouted in your head. And just as you thought so, Kuroo pulled away from you so that he could take his hands and use them to cup your soft cheeks. 'Is he going to kiss me?' You wondered. You closed your eyes and waited; sure enough you felt a pair of lips cover yours. Your body was feeling tingly. "Kuroo-san." You called his name as you separated. "His kissed always leave me feeling this way."
"(f/n), I have something for you at my house, do you want to come by to get it."
"Eh? You have something for me at your house? 'But I've never went to his house before so how could he possibly have something for me?' "Alright." You agreed. Kuroo pressed a button on his car keys and the car responded. Kuroo then opened passenger door and let you in. You stepped in the car and waited for Kuroo to get in. Once he got in he but on his seat belt and then drove off to his house.
The drive wasn't to far, about 10 minutes long. When the car stopped you looked out the window at the house he he stopped right in front of and your eyes widened. "Wow, so this is his house." It wasn't like his house was big or anything, but the fact that you got to see house, was amazement all on it's own. Kuroo got out the car and closed the door, he went around to your side and opened your door for you. You stepped out the car and onto the pavement.
"(f/n)."
"Yes?" You looked over at him.
"Before we go inside, I need to tell you something."
"What is it?"
"I lied. I don't have anything for you at my house." He smiled.
"What?! Why did you lie to me?"
"Because I didn't want to let you go home yet. I still want to talk with you more and just be near you all in all."
"O-Oh..." You blushed. "Well, you could have just told me, I would have understood."
"Understanding is one thing, but complying is another. Plus, you have Yujiro at home."
"You right." 'I can't believe I nearly forgot about him.'
"Well, I'll drive you h-"
"I'll come in." You cut him off.
"Huh?" He hadn't heard right.
"I'll come in, but just for a while. I don't want to worry Yujiro or keep Renji from doing what he has to do."
"Right." Still amazed by your answer, Kuroo took out his house keys and started walking up the path to the door. You walked behind him while observing the neighborhood. As you got up to the stairs, Kuroo took his keys and shoved it in the key hole, turned it and opened the door. As Kuroo stepped inside, he took of his shoes and put on a pair of sippers. When he turned back, he noticed that there you were still standing in the doorway.
"Come on in, don't be nervous. I'm not going to do anything to you unless you you want to."
"! O-Okay." You took a step inside and took of you shoes. 'This is a bit nerve wrecking.'
"Here, slippers for you." Kuroo had brought over a pink pair of sippers for you and placed down at you feet.
"Thank you."
"Would you like some tea?"
"No, thank you." You shook your head as you put on the slippers and followed him upstairs.
"Let's go to my room."
"Y-Yes." You looked around at the things in his house as you climbed the stairs. Kuroo soon enough stopped in front of a door and opened it.
"This is my room." He said.
'Wow, it's so normal.' You walked in ahead of him and took everything in. 'It's really neat too. I'd never expect for him to be so 'clean'?'
"(f/n)." Kuroo called your name and hugged you from behind. His arms wrapped around your waist comfortably and his chin rested on your shoulder. Kuroo made a slight shift so that his lips would peck you on your neck.
"K-Kuroo-san..." An ever so slight moan escaped your mouth.
"I've never met a girl like you before. You're so rare in my eyes and every time I see you I can't help myself from wanting you each and every time. I want--No...I need you, now." Kuroo leaned over next to your right ear and whispered into your ear. Goosebumps scattered all over your skin as you felt the heat mainly over your ear and partly down the side of your neck. "Is it alright if I get permission to this body?" Kuroo squeezed tighter around you.
Your heart was about to leap right out your chest. You were speechless. 'Please...please don't tell me this is what he invited me for.' Your body was trembling a bit and your mouth was a bit dry. As the more you got anxious, the more your body started to feel as if it were in a furnace. As the both of you stood there outside in front of the restaurant people passed by, walking in and out of the restaurant, you got a few stares here and there. But all there looks didn't matter at the moment. This moment. You took your hands and lightly pushed Kuroo's hands away from your waist. You took a step forward and looked down towards the floor. Kuroo looked at you with a bit of surprise but then chuckled a bit. "I don't know about that." You shook your head. "I don't think I can, not now."
"It's alright." Kuroo put his hand on top of your head and gave it a brief pat. "I guess this was way too soon. *sigh* Shoot, I feel like I messed up our flow." Kuroo ran his hand through his hair.
You turned around suddenly to look at him. "No, it's not you it's just that--I don't think I'm ready for that yet. Please don't feel like I don't like you! I do it's just that-"
Kuroo's eyes shot open as he caught himself. "Wait, you like me?" He interrupted you with smirked.
"Eh?" Your whole face blew up in red. "I-I--N-not like..." Your mind was racing for something to say, but all the while, Kuroo got closer to you and cupped your cheeks.
"So you like, like me, right?" He smiled. "I hope I'm not misunderstanding anything?"
"I...Whenever I'm near you, my heart feels like it get's closer and closer to exploding each time." You began to confess. You looked downward so that you wouldn't have to see his face. "I like it when you touch me. Your touch feels so gentle yet secure and I know I want those hands to hold me; hold me so close and tightly that it feels like I might suffocate. The way you interact and care for my son it just takes my breathe away. And each time we talked over the phone or texted each other, my heart felt all tingly and warm when you would tell me different things about yourself before we met, and there was a real good feeling floating around in my chest whether I talked to you or just came withing a few inches of you. I questioned it a few times, this feeling, and somewhere deep down I probably knew that I was starting to like you. I'm not saying this is love, but it's probably getting there." 'Jeez am I even making sense right now?'
"Wow, I never expected such a confession from you. Though, I'm extremely happy to hear that you feel that way."
"Really?"
"Of course, since I'm the one who's chasing after you."
"Yeah, I guess." You gave a shy smile but then wiped it away. Kuroo found you looking around the room once again. He had lost contact with your eyes.
'She seems really tense now.' "(f/n), if you don't mind me asking, uh, how did you meet Renji?"
"Eh? Why do you want to know...?" You got a bit suspicious. 'Why the heck would he want to know about my past with Renji. Any guy who like a girl usually wouldn't ask them about their past with their last partner, right?' "
"You don't have to tell me, it's just that you seemed really tense and I wanted to say something to get your mind off any pressure."
"I-...I'll tell you." You looked down and clasped your hands lazily together. "I met Renji back when we were in our 2nd year of high school. Back then, Renji was way more nicer and gentle than he was before we divorced."
"What do you mean by that?"
"Renji was on the baseball team back then and I was the manager of it. Renji was the ace pitcher and a lot of the girls in my school were after him. Almost day after day he would get a love letter from someone. Eventually, he ended up dating a girl. They looked like they were a good and functional couple, until they broke up 3 weeks later. Renji then found himself another girlfriend, that one lasted only a week longer than the last. Then Renji found himself dating another girl. He thought she was the one, telling all his friends that he thought she was the one, but he was wrong. She broke up with him within the second week of them dating."
"All the girls who had fallen for Renji started to slowly leave him. Love letters started coming in and rumors started to spread among the 2nd year girls. 'Renji looks sweet, but he's really a wolf in sheep's clothing.' ; 'Renji beat me the other day' Said a girl in tears. 'I can't believe Renji is a woman beater, he doesn't even seem like the type.'; 'Renj-kun has a really bad temper, stay away from him!' All the girls in our year started avoiding him, except me. One day I saw Renji sitting on the benches of the baseball field, crying. I went up to him and asked him:"
"Renji, what's the matter? Why are crying? Did something happen?"
Flashback
"(f/n), all the girls keep calling me a monster. The one's I've dated keep telling me that I'm the 'worst', I'm 'not gentle' and that I'm 'too rough'. They're all treating me like I'm some devil now. Am I--Am I really a monster like they say!?"
"Renji-kun, you're no monster, from the looks of it, I'd say that you're just a big ol' puppy who just needs a hug." You smiled.
"(f/n)..."
"I don't know why those girls would go around and spread rumors around like that. They should keep things like that to themselves. To treat someone like this is just terrible. Don't worry Renji-kun, I would never dream of treating you like that, your someone precious to me after all. To be honest with you, I think the girls only wanted to be with you because you were a jock, and a really cute one at that. But, I'm not like that. If I were them, I'd only be interested in what's on the inside."
"I only saw Renji for who he really was. And who he really was, wasn't a bad person."
'How could I not notice her before. She's like a guardian angel sent from the very heavens. God, thank you.'
"(f/n), I know it's really sudden but...will you got out with me?"
"Of course. I'm so glad you asked."
"After that day, me and Renji had started dating. When people had heard, the girl in and outside my class came up to me and asked me 'what the heck was wrong with me' and 'why would I even go out with a woman beater like him', telling me that I would 'regret it' but I all answered them the same way:"
"You guys don't even know the real Renji-kun because you were too quick to dump him. The Renji-kun that 'I' know, is a very kind fellow at heart. Taking his flaw of a short temper and making it a weapon against him, you all are horrible and should be ashamed of yourselves. Have you ever thought that his anger just might be his 'Achilles heel'? All in all it's my loss and my gain."
End Flashback
"Instead of helping him out with his problem, they all left him. But they only made it worse. I won't say that our relationship was perfect, but it was a joyous one because every moment I had with him was fun. Eventually the girls were shocked about the fact that me and Renji had made a over a year, then graduated high school together as a couple. I could tell that Renji seemed very happy with our relationship as well, even more happy because I helped him out with some of his anger problems. Eventually we went to the same university and finally took our relationship to 'that' level and then a few month later Renji asked me to marry him. It was kinds fast, but I was happy with him and only him and said yes."
"Within the next month I had gotten pregnant with Yujiro. Renji was ecstatic to become a father that he suggested we find a house together and move in. After Yujiro was born, Renji had gotten himself a part-time job and everything was basically smooth sailing, until 2 years later. All of a sudden Renji snapped and started beating on me. I don't know what the reason was. Maybe it was stress over having to pay so much bills, taxes and such, and then school on top of that. Whatever is was, it had finally broken him and he had taken it out on me.
"What?!" Kuroo had gotten angry.
"I tried to get help for him, but he refused and the abuse continued. One day I had told my older brother, about this because he noticed the bruising on my skin when I went to visit him. And then a few day later...No....I won't go that far." You could feel the pain of past memories dwell up within your heart and it felt like a dagger was piercing right through your very heart. Eventually, tears ended up spilling out the corners of your eyes. "Renji promised me that he would never harm me whether it be emotionally or physically...but he ended up doing both."
"When I realized there was no way for us to fix our marriage, I got a divorce. For some odd reason he had suggested that I get full custody of Yujiro, and from there on out Renji had been stalking me and Yujiro. He broke down my doors and kept having to get both them and the locks replaced, but it was no use. I tried calling police, but he had only threatened me even more. Eventually, I realized that I was living in a pure nightmare. I started getting sensitive to even the slightest touch of people. And when I saw his face I just....I just felt so terrified. My breath always felt short and the only thing I could do was prepare for the worst. Just the thought of his next visit scared me. 'What was it going to be today?' I would say to myself. 'How long would we have to live like this?' I felt helpless and small, weak."
"But the times when I felt like pure dirt and completely weak, I thought of Yujiro. Whenever I look at his smiling face or hear him call me, I get this gentle light feeling deep with my heart and think, 'I have to be strong. No matter what he throws my way, I've got to get back on my feet and stay strong. Yujiro's counting on me. No matter how paralyzed my body will become when he comes inside my house, no matter what he may say or do to me, no matter what...I have to remember that I'm fighting for the two of us.' It was a constant battle that I fight, but I had to remember that I'm not alone. Both he and I...we're in this together. And if me, on my last breath, is what it takes for him to have a bright and safe future, then so be it."
"That's right (f/n), you're not alone."
"Huh?"
"I'm so pissed at Renji that I could pummel his face in this very second. For making you feel like that...for doing all those things to you... But you're not alone, neither of you, because you have me now." Kuroo took your hands in his and gave it a good grip. "I promise that I'll take care of you and Yujiro, from here on out. The both of you are two of the most precious people in my life right now, and I'd feel sick if I'd loose either of you. I love the both of you and if you'll let me, I'll show you what real love is supposed to feel and look like. That's all I want for you."
"Kuroo-san....Kuroo-san!" You threw your arms around him and squeezed him like no tomorrow. You started to bawl out loudly in his ear. How long have you been waiting to hear words like those. Words of reassurance. You were going to cling onto those words for the rest of your life.
"You can cry all you need to for now. I'll be here right by your side forever."