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Chapter Text

"Finally...I thought we'd never get out of the gym today..."

"Oh man...I know...I swear if Hayami-san had called for one more receiving drill I was so gonna..."

"Ugh...volleyball makes me hungry..."

"Naka-chan...where are you going?"

The sound of my shoes crunching against the gravel in the road as I started jogging across the street to the market.

"I'm just gonna run over and grab some snacks...anybody want..."

"NAKANO!! LOOK..."

The engine roar.

The squeal of the tires.

The bright lights...and everything goes white...

Nakano sat bolt upright in bed, sweat pouring off her body as she cried out in fear, gasping for breath.  The damn dream again.  

It was the third time in two weeks she'd been jarred awake by this nightmare.  And each time, it progressed further.  This time, she saw the lights.  Nakano rubbed her eyes, trying to force away the afterimage that seemed to linger even though the lights had only been in her head.

She knew what this meant.  She knew it was getting worse.  She gasped for air, trying to still her pounding heart.  Damn, she thought, why the hell is this happening now?  Barely one month into my first year of high school and already I have to deal with this crap.  She focused her attention on her breathing, trying to calm herself.  It's just the pressure of dealing with a new school, a new environment, she told herself, it will resolve itself once I've settled in.

Bullshit, she thought.

The door to her bedroom opened softly.  "Naka-chan?  Are you alright?"

Nakano sighed.  "Yeah, onee-san, I'm okay.  Just...just a bad dream."

Her sister sat beside her on the bed, her worried look obvious even in the dim light.  "The same..."

"Yes, Amalie, the same one," Nakano said, a little annoyed. "It's nothing you can do anything about, okay?  It's happened before, it will happen again.  I got this.  I'll be fine."

"Naka-chan, hey, I know this..."

"No, Ama, you don't.  You don't know.  You can't know.  So please stop, okay?"  Nakano lay back down on her bed.  "Just let me get back to sleep, alright?  I've got a long session tomorrow and I need to rest."

Amalie sighed.  Her sister was right in one way...she really couldn't understand Nakano and what she was going through sometimes.  But one thing she did know.  This wasn't just about the accident.  This was also about volleyball.  And she knew that if they couldn't find a way for Nakano to continue improving, her sister would fall apart again.

"Look, kiddo, I may not know everything, but I know when you're stuck," Amalie said, shaking her sister slightly to make her open her eyes, "I've seen it before, you know?  I know you know it too, so quit pretending there's nothing anyone can do to help!"

Nakano sat up again, her blue eyes sharp and angry.  "How are you going to help me, nee-san?  You don't play and neither does mom.  Don't get me wrong...I'm grateful for everything you guys have done...but...but..." Nakano struggled to keep herself from yelling. "It's not enough anymore!  I'm not improving!  I can't get better if I can't work with people who really know how to play!  And where am I going to find people willing to deal with me, huh?  It's not like I have anything to offer them in return."  Nakano looked away, her eyes beginning to fill with tears. Dammit, she thought, I hate this. So frigging weak. 

"That's crap, Nakano, and you know it."

"I can't ask a team to take in a person who can't actually play in a game."

"Maybe you can't, but I can."

"What?"

Amalie stood up. "I'll meet you at Karasuno after school on Monday.  I think I know someone who can help you."

Nakano looked at her older sister in confusion.  "What are you talking about?  Don't you have to be back at college on Monday?  Mom will have a fit if you ditch."

"I'm in college now, it's not ditching, it's selective class attendance," Amalie gave her a sister a sweet smile, and Nakano snorted.  "Seriously, let me see if I can set something up for Monday, and I'll introduce you to someone who might be able to help, okay?  I still know some people at Karasuno."  Amalie ruffled her sister's hair, and Nakano gently slapped her hand away. "Think you can go back to sleep?  Do you need some water?  Should I help you reposition your legs?"

Nakano sighed, "I'm good, Ama."  She looked down.  "Thanks.  I know you're trying to help."

Amalie sighed.  "Despite your best efforts, kiddo, you're really not alone.  I know you feel that way...but Mom and I...we really do try, okay?"

"I wish Dad were home."

"I know, kiddo.  We all do.  Now get some sleep, okay?"

"'Night, Ama."

"Sleep well, Nakano."

After Amalie left, Nakano sighed again.  She had no idea what her sister was up to, but whatever it was, she was pretty sure it wouldn't help.  They just didn't understand.  They never had.  But, they loved her, and she was grateful for that.  Nakano settled back down in her bed, and drifted back to sleep.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano made her way slowly down the first-year hall of Karasuno High School.  She'd really pushed it at her physical therapy session over the weekend, and then did extra personal training on Sunday.  She'd hoped that if she could feel like she'd made some progress, it would stave off another occurrence of the nightmare, and it seemed to have helped.  She'd been too exhausted to dream at all, as far as she could remember.

Unfortunately, she was now also too exhausted to trust her legs with a lot of walking.  She knew her sister had something up her sleeve for this afternoon, so she had decided to save her strength for after school.  

Which meant she was currently using her wheelchair as an actual wheelchair, instead of more like a walker as she usually did.

She'd learned early on that she had to move slowly with her wheelchair, whether she was sitting in it or not.  As far as she was aware, she was the only first year student at Karasuno with a wheelchair, and unfortunately, that made her an instant "celebrity" as her mother liked to call it.

Instant freak show was often more how it felt to Nakano.  Even a month in, she was still getting way more attention than she wanted.  She'd learned early on that if she moved too fast with the chair, there was a whole cadre of people who assumed she was "faking" and would make her life hell.  She'd dealt with that in middle school enough to know that it wasn't worth it.  Slow and steady wins the race, right?  So she moved at a reasonable pace and kept her head up, smiling.  I am plenty used to being the freak show, Nakano thought, and chuckled to herself.

The one good thing about using her wheelchair as a chair is that it meant she could drape her jacket over the braces on her legs.  She'd begged the school officials to allow her to wear a boys' uniform...or at least a full length skirt so she could keep the braces covered most of the time, but of course they gave her the same old tired lines about her needing to accept her disability and helping her classmates become more accepting and how if they made an exception for her they'd have to make one for everyone and blah blah blah.

More bullshit, Nakano thought.

At least her classmates were getting pretty accustomed to her.  Almost all of the usual chatter had died down, except for those couple of idiots who simply had to poke fun at anyone different.  She made it to the doorway of Class 1-4, just behind Tsukishima and Yamaguchi.  Spotting the freckle-faced boy ahead of her, she knew he'd turn and offer to help.

"Good morning, Ogawa-san!"

Right on cue, she thought.  She flashed him a smile.  He's a nice guy.  Shame his friend...is so...different.

"Morning, Yamaguchi-san!"

"Do you need any help?"

"Nope, I got this," Nakano replied cheerfully, wheeling herself into the room and parking her wheelchair against the back wall.  Gathering her bag and jacket, she stood up and made her way over to her seat, in front of Yamaguchi.  He remained standing, waiting, just in case she needed help.  Tsukishima had already sat at the desk by the window, to the left of Yamaguchi's chair.  Once Nakano had settled in, Yamaguchi took his seat.  Tsukishima watched this little drama play out, feigning disinterest.  He never quite understood why Tadashi seemed to be concerned with assisting her...from what he could see, she didn't need any help at all.  If it were me, he thought, the last thing I'd want is someone hovering around trying to help me all the time.  But then, she seems like the optimistic type, who sees the good in everything and everyone.  He rolled his eyes and looked out the window.  Whatever, he thought, at least she's not hyper aggressive about it like that damn shrimp Hinata.  If I had to deal with that in class and at club, I think I'd go insane.

"Morning, Tsukishima-san," Nakano said.  She always greeted him, since she greeted his friend.  Plus, his reactions were always interesting.  Today, it was a nod, his most common reply.  Some days, she got a grimace (usually if she and Yamaguchi were being particularly chatty, or something was bugging him) and sometimes he simply ignored her (those were days he was usually really upset about something).  He'd actually replied only once thus far, and Nakano still hadn't figured out what had made that day different from all the others.  Tsukishima puzzled her, and Nakano did always enjoy trying to solve puzzles.  

"You...uh...must have had a busy weekend..." Yamaguchi said.

Nakano smiled at him again.  "Oh?  How did you know that?"

Yamaguchi colored a little and rubbed the back of his neck with his hand.  "W-Well...you actually rode in your chair today...usually you walk behind it...so I figured you  must have had a lot going on this weekend and were kind of tired, you know?"  

Nakano laughed. "Excellent deduction, Yamaguchi-san, you are correct.  It was a busy weekend, and I have plans for this afternoon, so I figured I'd better take it a little easy during the first part of the day."

Yamaguchi smiled at her words of praise.  He liked Ogawa's smile, and she was quick with it.  When they'd all started class together, Yamaguchi had noticed the other students staring and whispering about the "girl with the broken legs."  He imagined she must have dealt with her fair share of bullies, and he remembered how awful that could be.  He was determined to be kind to her...though he was a little shy about just striking up a friendship with a girl.  Tsukki, of course, didn't seem to care...but he'd not actually said anything about his attempts to befriend her either, so Yamaguchi just kept trying to be kind.  As for Ogawa, she was nice, and somehow never seemed bothered by her classmates reactions to her.  She always kept her head up, and smiled...even when he knew she had to be able to hear some of her classmates' comments.  

"So are you doing something fun this afternoon...uh...i-if you don't mind my asking..."

Nakano chuckled.  "Actually, I'm not sure what I'm doing...my sister won't tell me."

"Oh!  Do you have a sister here at the school?"

"No, she graduated from Karasuno last year.  She's in college now, but she came home for the weekend and insisted on staying an extra day to do something with me this afternoon."

"Wow, that's really nice.  I hope it's a fun surprise!"

"Me too..."

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "She's missing class for whatever it is, so hopefully it's more than just some 'fun'."

Nakano turned to face the blond, it was rare for him comment on her chats with Yamaguchi.  She smiled.  "I said the same thing Tsukishima-san, but she insisted.  I guess whatever it is she has planned does indeed mean a lot to her."  I know it does, she thought, but I just don't think it will help the way she hopes.  Her smile faded a bit.  Both boys noticed.

"Ogawa-san, are you al..." Yamaguchi began.

But at that moment, their teacher entered the room.  "Good morning, class, let's prepare for the day..." she began.  All three students turned to face the front, their morning conversation finished for now.

🏐🏐🏐

With classes finally over, Nakano made her way to the front gate, to find her sister Amalie already waiting for her.

She's really determined to try to help, Nakano thought.  Well then, the least I can do is give it my best.  I'm grateful to her for trying.

"Hey, onee-san!  So...where to now?" 

"Just follow me, kiddo.  We're going to go see a friend of mine, and I think she'll be able to help you out."

Nakano and Amalie walked across the campus towards the gymnasiums, chatting about each other's day.  Amalie confessed that she 'left for college' in the morning so their mom wouldn't know she was skipping classes for this.  Nakano laughed, but then turned to her sister with a serious face.

"Ama...thanks for this.  You really didn't have to..."

"Yeah, I kinda did, kiddo.  I know it's been hard for you lately.  I know you need more than Mom and I can do.  You may not yet be ready to play full time, but you're ready to be back on the court."

Nakano only half heard her...the sounds of squeaking shoes and volleyballs hitting hard surfaces distracted her.  They'd come to a stop in front of a gym where volleyball practice was underway.  Through the half-open door, she could see several girls working...on a spiking drill maybe?  Something like that...Nakano felt a curious twitch in her stomach.  

Suddenly, her view of the practicing girls was blocked.  A pretty young woman with short brown hair came out of the gym and greeted her sister.

"Ama-kun!  So good to see you!"  The two girls hugged.

"Yui, this is my sister, Nakano.  Nakano, this is Michimiya Yui, captain of the Karasuno girls' volleyball team."

Nakano bowed.  "A pleasure to meet you, Michimiya-senpai.  Please, call me Nakano."

Michmiya smiled.  "Hi, Nakano-chan!  So nice to meet you!"

"So, Yui, my sister was a great volleyball player..."  Amalie's voice faded as Nakano's attention was once again gripped by the girls practicing in the gym.  She moved forward towards the door for a better view.  Clearly Amalie was going to tell Michimiya the whole tale, whether she wanted her life history shared or not.  Nakano didn't feel the need to hear the story again.

The girls in the gym, now without their captain, started slacking a bit.  She watched as the spikes got a little slower, a little less powerful.  Finally, one girl simply refused to take her turn, instead heading for the bench and some water.  The rest of the team took that a signal to break as well, chattering about school, boys, and how exhausting the drills were.  A pair of girls moved off to practice serving and receiving.  She's not getting good extension there, Nakano thought about the girl who was serving.  Her form is still kind of sloppy.  Nakano felt her body twitch again - she wanted to go in and show the girl how to improve her serve.  The girl receiving was really in trouble.  She needs to drop her hips, Nakano thought, her body unconsciously beginning to move into the correct position.  If I could just get in there, I could...

"We've never had a manager..." Nakano heard Yui say dimly.

Manager?  But...look at their setter...Nakano was beginning to tremble, trying to stop herself from running in and grabbing the hands of the girl lazily setting the ball to herself.  I...I can't...I can't play!  If I was well, I could be on this team, and we could really do something!  How...how can I possibly just limit myself to just being their manager?  Dammit!

She suddenly turned to face the two older girls, bowing as deeply as she could without overbalancing herself on her braced legs.

"I'm sorry, Michimiya-senpai!  I'm very sorry, but this just isn't going to be possible for me!"

"Nakano, what are you..." Amalie began.

Nakano looked up, her blue eyes sharp and piercing.  "I can't just be a manager for a girls' team.  I'd want to be on the court too much.  I just know that it would end badly.  I'd be far too critical of my teammates, because I'd want to be doing instead of just watching!  I thank you both, especially, you Amalie, for everything...but I just don't think I can bear it!" She suddenly looked down, her strawberry blonde bangs covering her eyes so the other two girls would not see the tears forming there.  "Eh-excuse me, please!  Thank you again for the opportunity, Michimiya-senpai!  I am so sorry!" Nakano moved to grab ahold of her chair.

"Nakano, wait!" Michimiya cried.  She smiled at both of the Ogawa girls as they turned to her.  "Please, don't be upset.  I think I understand why you don't feel our club would be a good fit for you right now. "  She put a hand on Nakano's shoulder.  "Will you do me a favor?"

"What is it, Michimiya-senpai?" 

"Can you come back tomorrow afternoon?  I might be able to get you connected with the right club this time.  Will you give it another chance?"

"O-of course.  But I don't want to put you to any trou..."

Michimiya smiled gently.  "It's no trouble.  I'm just going to do what your sister did and talk to a friend who I think might be better able to help you than I can.  We volleyball girls gotta help each other out, right?"  She chuckled.

"Yui, thank you so much!  I really appreciate it.  Goodness knows I can't 'selectively not attend' any more classes this week!  So thanks for looking out for my little sister."  Amalie gave the brown-haired girl another hug.

"My pleasure Ama-senpai.  Anything for you!  And Nakano - I will see you tomorrow, okay?"

"You bet, Michimiya-senpai!"

🏐🏐🏐

The next day, Nakano once again made her way to the girls' volleyball gym after classes ended.  Michimiya was waiting for her, and the two walked the short distance to another gym, where Nakano could hear the sounds of volleyball practice underway.  But this time, the voices were a lot deeper.  A handsome brown-haired young man waited outside the open gym doors.  

"Hey Michimiya!" he called and smiled as the two ladies approached.

"Hey Daichi!  Thanks for meeting us.  Ogawa Nakano, meet Sawamura Daichi, captain of Karasuno's boys' volleyball team.  I've told Daichi about your situation as your sister described it to me, more or less." She smiled at Nakano, and the girl knew instinctively that Michimiya had left out details that she felt might be too personal to share with the boy.  Amalie did tend to be an over-sharer.

She bowed slightly and greeted the captain.  "A pleasure to meet you, Sawamura-senpai.  Thank you for taking time from your practice to talk with me."

"My pleasure, Ogawa.  Michimiya tells me you want to get back into volleyball, but aren't yet ready to be on the court full time.  I'm sorry if this is a sensitive subject, but I need to ask...do you have your doctor's permission to be involved in a sport at all?"

Nakano smiled.  She'd packed a bag for yesterday with all her volleyball things, just in case things had worked out the way Amalie had hoped.  Now she was glad she'd brought it with her again.  She reached into her bag and drew out a folder, then offered it to Daichi.  "Yes, of course, Sawamura-senpai.  I have all of my doctor's information here, including my current physical therapy regimen, and his recommendations for participation in volleyball-style activities.  He knows that I was a player in the past and fully supports my return to the sport as my condition improves.  I've been in recovery from my accident for over two and a half years, with my last surgery being over a year ago.  I pay strict attention to my doctors, Sawamura-senpai.  I won't do anything that might jeopardize my overall recovery."

Daichi chuckled.  "Wow...you are definitely prepared, Ogawa.  And please, just call me Daichi.  Sawamura-senpai is a bit of a mouthful."

"Then please call me Nakano, Daichi-san."  Daichi smiled at her addition of the honorific.  She seemed quite determined to make a good impression.  He looked through the papers and exchanged a glance with Michimiya.  They both could tell how much this seemed to mean to their underclassman.  Nakano, meanwhile, couldn't help but steal a glance at the players behind Daichi.  Woah, she thought as she watched a short young man execute a flawless receive.  That's Nishinoya Yu from Chidoriyama!  I'm sure of it!  Damn, he's a great libero...

"...back to my girls.  Good luck, Nakano!" Michimiya was headed off.  Nakano waved.  "Thank you again, Michimiya-senpai!"

"Thanks, Michimiya!  See you later!"  Daichi smiled at Nakano.  "Michimiya told me about how you felt after seeing the girls team yesterday.  You can't officially play on the boys team, naturally...but I also can't allow you to just be at our practices and distract them.  If you're going to be part of the team, you need to be active and supportive of our guys.  We have a manager at this time, but she's a third year and will be graduating, so you'd..."

Nakano started losing touch with Daichi's words as she watched the boys behind him continue practice.  Several strong spikers, she noted, and...hey, that's Tsukishima...nice block.  Something orange and blurry suddenly flew above the net, slamming down an insanely quick spike.  What the hell?  The boys erupted in praise and Nakano heard an adorable voice call out "One more!"  She was shaking again.  She needed to get inside that room.  This was it.

She suddenly refocused on Daichi and bowed as low as her body could go.

"Daichi-san!  Please!  Please let me join the club!  I'll be assistant manager, ball-girl, whatever you need.  I'll get water, clean the floor, wash towels and jerseys!  I know a lot about sports medicine and always carry my own medical kit so I can help any player who gets injured.  I'll do anything.  Just please let me join you for as much as I can do!"

Daichi laughed out loud.  "Well, with a request like that, how can I say no?"

Nakano looked up and flashed him a brilliant smile.  "Thank you, Captain!"  Daichi laughed out loud again.  "Now, here's the thing.  It looks like your doctor recommends easing into this, so let's take things nice and slow, okay?  I know our current manager will be happy for the help, and I want this to be productive for both you and our team.  Ah, perfect timing!  Shimizu Kiyoko, this is Ogawa Nakano.  She's going to be joining us as assistant manager, if that's alright with you."

Nakano turned to see a beautiful third year approaching.  Wow, she thought, she almost sparkles.  Well, any worries you had about me distracting the boys are unfounded, Captain...with this girl in the room, no one will be paying attention to me.  Nakano smiled.  "I hope you'll allow me to help you, Shimizu-senpai!"

Kiyoko gave her a small smile. "It's just Kiyoko.  May I call you Nakano?"

"Of course!  Please do!"

"I'm so glad to have some help.  These boys are a handful."

Daichi laughed aloud again.  "You're right about that.  Speaking of them, I'd better get back in there before things get out of hand." There had definitely been an increase in volume from the team.  "Kiyoko, why don't you show Nakano the changing room and help her get situated.  Do you have clothes you can change into for today, Nakano?  Or would you prefer to just watch?"

"Oh no, Captain, I came prepared.  I want to do whatever I can, starting today."

"Alright then.  Why don't you change and warm up a bit and then join us in the gym when you're ready."

"Hai!"

Daichi headed back into the gym.  Kiyoko turned to Nakano with a small frown.  "Ummm...Nakano?  I'm sorry to seem insensitive..." She glanced at the stairs leading up to the club rooms.  Nakano chuckled.  "Don't worry, Kiyoko, I can handle stairs.  Jumping, not so much, unless I take the braces off."  The two girls started towards the changing room, Nakano folding her wheelchair as she went.  Once folded, it served as a pretty decent cane for negotiating the stairs.

"You can take them off?"  Kiyoko looked amazed.

"Sure.  That's why I'm here.  Someday, they'll come off for good." Kiyoko noted the change in Nakano's blue eyes...they became sharper, more focused.  "And when they do, I'm going to be ready."  Kiyoko smiled gently, seemingly knowing those words were not really meant for her.

"Come on, let's get changed."

🏐🏐🏐

Twenty minutes later, dressed in sweatpants and a white tee shirt and with her strawberry blonde hair in a braid down her back, Nakano stepped into the boys' volleyball gym behind Kiyoko.  She saw Daichi making his way over to join them, along with a sweet-looking silver-haired boy.  

"Oh, I probably should warn you about..." Kiyoko began.

"KIYOKO!  YOU LOOK...woah.  Noya!  Look!  T-t-t-two!!!" A bald-headed fellow was running towards Kiyoko but suddenly stopped when he noticed Nakano.  He was soon joined by Nishinoya.

"Wha-what?  Kiyoko, did you find us another pretty manager?"  Nishinoya exclaimed.

Suddenly all eyes were on the new girl in the room.  Daichi tried to get everyone's attention, but to no avail.

"Oh wow, she is pretty."

"Daichi, is this a new..."

"Hey, Tsukki, isn't that Ogawa from our class?"

"Hey!  A girl!  Wow...she's tall for a girl!  How tall are you?"

"Nakano?"

Nakano looked up as someone called her name.  That voice...she looked up to see a familiar face capped by short raven-black hair.  "Kageyama!"  Nakano made her way towards the setter, and Kageyama jogged over to meet her.  The two smiled at each other, fist bumping and then grasping hands to pull each other into a one-arm hug.  It seemed like a ritual they had performed many times.  

"Hey, Kageyama, how do you..."

"Well well well, what's this?  Does the King have himself a Queen?" Tsukishima smirked as he called out Kageyama loudly.  Kageyama growled at the use of his hated nickname.  "Look, you jerkwad..."  He stopped as he heard Nakano chuckle deep in her throat.

"Ah...now that's a name I haven't heard in a long while." Nakano looked up, and Kageyama stepped back.  Her eyes were sharp.  She turned to look at Tsukishima.  I had no idea he'd recognized me, she thought.  I wonder why he never said anything until now.  "Yeah," she replied staring at Tsukishima, "I was the Queen.  I can't quite claim that name again yet, but just you wait."

What was that all about, thought Tsukishima.  I was just trying to piss off the King...she was the Queen?  Does that mean they used to date?  She can't claim that name again...yet?  Is she here to try to win him back or something?  What the hell?  Tsukishima was puzzled...and what puzzled him even more is why he cared.  He clicked his tongue and turned away.

Meanwhile Daichi had approached Nakano and Kageyama.  "So, I guess you two know each other?"

"Yes, sir," Kageyama answered.  "She went to middle school with me."

Daichi smiled.  He felt it was good that Nakano would already have someone she knew on the team to help her get adjusted.  "Gather 'round, everyone!" The rest of the boys jogged over and formed a semi-circle around Daichi and Nakano.  "Guys, this is Ogawa Nakano.  She's going to be joining us as an assistant to Kiyoko."  Kageyama looked at Nakano with surprise.  Why is she joining us, he thought.  Why isn't she on the girls team?

Daichi stepped aside and invited Nakano to speak.  "As the Captain said, my name is Ogawa Nakano, but please, call me Nakano.  Some of you already know this, but for those who do not, I want you to be aware of something." She looked to Kiyoko, who brought the wheelchair over. "You'll sometimes see me in this wheelchair." Kageyama's eyes went wide.  "And I also wear braces on my legs.  I was in an accident a number of years ago, and I'm still learning to use my legs again.  I was a volleyball player in middle school before that, and I want to be again.  So I'm here to help out the team as much as I can, but I'm also here to train with you to help get my legs back to where they need to be.  So...thank you for helping me!  Please take care of me!" Nakano bowed low.

Nishinoya and the bald-headed fellow were crying.  "Beautiful and strong!  And so kind!  The gods have blessed Karasuno!"  Nakano looked at Daichi, who just shook his head and sighed.  

"Tanaka, Nishinoya...you're gonna creep her out." The silver-haired fellow offered Nakano his hand.  "Don't mind them, they really are harmless.  I'm Sugawara Koshi, Vice-Captain.  Just call me Suga."  Nakano shook his hand as he proceeded to introduce the other boys.

"Wait a second...hold on here." A blond gentleman walked up.  Suga turned to him and said "...and this is Coach Ukai."  

"Ukai?" Nakano said with awe.

"He's the grandson of the famous Crazy Crow Coach."

"Thank you for allowing me to join the team, Coach!" Nakano bowed low again.

"Look here...you said your name is Ogawa Nakano, right?" Coach Ukai asked.  Nakano nodded.  "And you went to Kitagawa First, right?" Nakano nodded again.  "Well I'll be damned!" Ukai muttered.

"You're the Queen of the Court!"

Chapter Text

Yamaguchi smiled at Nakano.  "I still can't believe it...I'm friends with the Queen of the Court!  You are so amazing Ogawa-san!"

The pair were seated in Class 1-4 along with Tsukishima, who rolled his eyes at his best friend's enthusiasm for the strawberry-blond girl.  "It's been almost a week and you're still saying that.  Enough already, Yamaguchi."  Tsukishima turned to Tadashi with a smirk, "Or are you maybe hoping to ask Nakano out on a date...are you trying to butter her up?"

Tadashi turned a deep shade of red, and Nakano blushed lightly.  "Cut it out, Tsukishima," she said.  The blonde clicked his tongue in response.  "But, really Yamaguchi, he's right.  I'm not the Queen of the Court right now, not by a long shot." Nakano's eyes gleamed a sharp bright blue and her smile faded for just a moment.  Before either boy could say anything, she continued. "And for crying out loud, please call me Nakano!  We're teammates now, there's no reason for you to be so formal."

The blush that had started to fade on Yamaguchi's face brightened again, and he looked down at his hands.  "Well...I...uh...I don't want to seem rude..."

This time Nakano rolled her eyes.  "It's not rude to use my first name if I've asked you to...which I have, about a dozen times."  She laughed, and Yamaguchi chuckled too.  "What if I called you by a nickname?"

"Like what?" the freckled boy asked.

"Well..." Nakano gazed off into space.  "I usually call you Yamaguchi...I could call you Gucchi..." Tadashi gave her a strange look. She chuckled. "No.  How about Yama?"  No response.  "Mmmm...Yam-yam?"

"Definitely not." said Tsukishima, as Yamaguchi rolled his eyes.

Nakano laughed out loud.  "How about just Yams, then?" 

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "That settles it," Nakano said with a broad smile.  "From now on, I'm gonna call you Yams, and you can call me Naka-chan."

Tadashi choked on his own spit, and turned bright red for the third time that morning. "N-n-n-naka-chan!?!" Yamaguchi spluttered, beginning to cough. Tsukishima's eyes widened and he frowned at the girl.  Why does she want him to be so familiar with her, he thought.  I thought she and Kageyama were a thing?  She'd better not be messing around with Tadashi's feelings.  He stared at Nakano, feeling irritated.

Nakano got up and patted Yamaguchi on the back, laughing aloud.  "I'm sorry Yams, I couldn't resist.  But please do call me Nakano, okay?  We're friends now, and I'd really like it if you'd call me by my first name."  She blushed a tiny bit.  "I confess I've never really liked my last name much, and hearing people say Ogawa-san or Ogawa-kun always makes me think of my mom or my sister.  So it really will make me very happy to have friends and teammates who call me Nakano again." 

Yamaguchi looked at Nakano and smiled.  She looks so sincere, he thought.  I think it really will make her happy.  I guess her old team must have called her Nakano too. Hey...I did what I set out to do...I've made friends with her for real.  "Okay, Nakano.  Thanks!"

As the blue-eyed girl made her way back to her seat, Tsukishima just watched her, confused.  He saw the look in her eyes as she'd spoken to Tadashi, and it wasn't a calculating one.  What is she doing?  She just patted Yamaguchi on the back, and he didn't become a blushing mess, he thought.  It's like she knew just what to do to get him to relax and make him feel comfortable.  Maybe she does like him.  But what about Kageyama?  I don't understand what she's up to.

Tsukishima clicked his tongue again.  "Ugh...the way you two are carrying on...why don't you just kiss and get it over with." He smirked at Nakano this time.  "You do seem to have a thing for volleyball boys, don't you?"

Nakano stopped on her way over to her desk and turned to lean over Tsukishima's instead.  "What's the matter, Tsukki?" She asked with a smirk of her own. "Are you hoping to be my next volleyball boy?"

Tsukishima's ears turned pink while Yamaguchi chuckled.  "Nice one, Nakano."

"Don't call me that."  Tsukishima growled.

"Okay," said Nakano, returning to her seat.  "But clearly you are jealous because I gave Yams a nickname.  So...I guess now I need one for you."

"Tsukishima works just fine, thank you."

"Hmmm...not Tsukki...Saltyshima?"  Nakano pondered. "No, too obvious.  Shittyshima?"  Tsukishima rolled his eyes.  "Hmmm...clearly not original enough." Yamaguchi chuckled again.  "Stingyshima?  No, no....Hinata calls you that," Nakano mused.  Tsukishima rolled his eyes again and Yamaguchi was getting close to outright laughing.  "Tsukishitma?"  Tsukishima cocked an eyebrow at that one, and Nakano chuckled.  "Clearly a more original choice, but a little too vulgar for every day use."  She flashed Tsukishima an over exaggerated smile.  "I've got it!  Tsukki-poo!"  Nakano said in an over-the-top ditzy girl voice and batted her eyelashes at the blonde.

Yamaguchi burst out laughing, and Tsukishima groaned.

"Tsukki-dude?"  She continued to use the squeaky voice and her big blue eyes to her best advantage.  She was clearly enjoying herself.

Yamaguchi grabbed his sides.

"Tsukki-dear?"

Tsukishima smacked his head onto his desk.

"Tsukki-babe?"

Yamaguchi collapsed in giggles on his desk.  

"Tsukki..."

"For the love of whatever gods might be listening...if I let you call me Tsukki will you please stop this!?!" Tsukishima practically snarled at the girl.  

Nakano gave him a genuine smile. "Yes," she replied in her normal voice. "Yes, I will."

"Fine," he said, completely exasperated. 

"Thank you, Tsukki," she said.  "That's really kind of you.  And I promise to use it sparingly, okay?"  Tsukishima looked up to see Nakano with a genuinely kind look on her face.  It's like she really just wants to make us comfortable with her, he thought.  Like she's trying to be...accepted.  Of course, she just went about it in the most annoying way possible.  He suppressed a chuckle.  But damn, he realized, it kinda worked.  He managed to keep his flat expression up.

"Whatever."

Their teacher arrived at last, and the trio began to prepare for the day.

"She got you pretty good, Tsukki," Yamaguchi whispered to his friend.

"Shut up, Yamaguchi."

"Sorry, Tsukki."

🏐🏐🏐

Afternoon practice was about to start.  The team was waiting for Nakano, who was now regularly joining them for their warm-ups.  The boys were chatting amongst themselves as she came in to the gym followed by Kiyoko.  She parked her wheelchair and Kiyoko placed her braces on its seat.  

"Sorry for the delay, Captain," Nakano said, making her way over to the boys.

"Not a problem, Nakano," Daichi replied, "Let's get started!"

Kageyama walked over to Nakano.  "Do you need help?" he asked, holding out a hand to her.

The girl laughed.  "Kags, you ask that every time.  I've got this, really.  I do physical therapy without my braces three times a week.  Daichi has all the information from my doctors.  I promise I'm not doing anything they don't approve of.  If I don't take the braces off, I can't properly work the muscles and strengthen them.  Now stop worrying so much." She looked at his face, a mix of concern and embarrassment showing on it. She playfully punched his arm.  "Come on, be my warm up partner."

"Kags?" Ennoshita asked, an amused look on his face.  Kageyama blushed a bit more.

Nakano laughed again.  "Well, we're older now, and 'Kageyama-kun' feels a little too middle-school to me.  So...Kags.  Do I need a nickname for you too Ennoshita-senpai?"  She gave him a teasing smile.  

He waved his hands at her.  "Oh no...I've heard the tales of you devising nicknames for people...I'm good!"  He looked at Yamaguchi and Tsukishima.  Yamaguchi chuckled and Tsukishima just clicked his tongue and looked away.

"What about us!?!?" Tanaka and Noya yelled in unison.  "Don't we get special nicknames?" Noya finished.  

She turned her bright blue eyes to the pair.  "You are my Noya-senpai and my Tanaka-senpai.  Did you need better nicknames than that?"

The two fainted away...or at least pretended to.  "She called us her senpais..." Noya said in a dreamy voice.  "I've died and gone to heaven," Tanaka agreed.  Nakano laughed at them while several of the other boys groaned.  "You two are so ridiculously extra," Nakano said with her eyes sparkling.

Tsukishima rolled his eyes.  It's like she's already got the whole team wrapped around her fingers, he thought.  How did she do that so fast?  And why?  What is she getting out of all this?  Does she really miss being part of a team that badly?  I don't get it...

"Alright already, you guys, let's get on with it!" Daichi got everyone focused on the warm-ups again.

"Hey, I need a partner!" Hinata looked around, clearly feeling left out.

Nakano laughed again.  "Come on over here, Shoyo...you, me and Kags will make a trio."

"Thanks, Nakano!"

🏐🏐🏐

Warm-ups concluded and Daichi called for a run, earning a groan from the boys.  Nakano accepted Kageyama's hand and he helped her to her feet.  "Say, Captain?  How far do you guys go on your runs?"

Daichi looked over to the girl.  "Well, about 4 or so miles total..."

"It's actually almost 5 miles," Suga chimed in.  

"Hmmm..." Nakano frowned, "I think I'd better sit this one out.  The best I've been able to do before my legs get shaky is a little over 3 miles.  I'll start focusing on endurance so I can join you as soon as possible."

"Hey...it's great that you can do 3 miles," Kageyama said.

"And I appreciate that you're not trying to push yourself too far too fast," Daichi added.  "I'm sure Kiyoko will need the help, because when we get back, we're playing a game, guys!  Let's head out!"

The boys began to follow Daichi out of the gym.  Kageyama patted Nakano's shoulder.  "You'll be running with us in no time.  Thanks for setting up for us."  He turned to follow the team.

"Yeah, you make a great ball girl, Nakano," Tsukishima smirked as he walked past her.  "And please make sure the water bottles are nice and cold...I hate it when my sports drinks are lukewarm.  Such a good servant."  He took off at a jog.  Kageyama clenched his hands into fists. "You damn..." 

"Hey," Nakano put a hand on his shoulder this time.  "It's okay.  He's not wrong...that's my job right now.  Besides, if he's trying to get under my skin, he'll have to do a lot better than that.  I got this.  You have a good run okay, Kags?  Now go catch up." She gave him a little push.  But as he turned to go, Kageyama caught the look in Nakano's eyes.  A mix of hurt and anger.  He ran to catch up to the team, an idea forming in his mind.

🏐🏐🏐

Their run concluded, the team took a quick break to rehydrate before splitting up into two teams to play against each other.  Kiyoko was keeping score and taking notes while Nakano was refilling the drink bottles and refreshing the towels.  Having missed out on the run, she wanted to keep her legs moving as much as possible.  She watched as the boys worked hard on the court, mentally noting places where each of them could improve to share with Kiyoko later.  

Tsukishima caught her eye from the far side of the court and smirked as he looked at the pile of bottles in her arms.  Yes, yes, you lanky freak, she thought, I know, you like your drinks cold.  Ugh, I better get this done or I'll have to hear more of his sass...and in this case I can't really do anything about it.  He's got me.  Damn.  She dropped her eyes to the ground and went back to her work.  Tsukishima wondered why she suddenly seemed to look so defeated.  

"Kageyama, nice serve!" Nakano heard Ennoshita call as she returned with the refilled bottles.

"Woah!  Heads up!" Suga cried.

"Sorry!" yelled Kageyama.

Nakano looked up to see the ball headed right her way.  Her stomach tightened.  All the sounds around her faded, and time seemed to slow for her.  She looked at the players on the near side of the court, analyzing positions.  She looked at the blockers and receivers on the far side of the court, searching for the best opening.  The water bottles fell from her hands.  She moved into position, jumping up to meet the ball with her setter's hands at the ready.  "ASAHI!!!!" she shouted as she tossed the ball across the court at a height and distance from the net she'd noticed the ace was fond of.  Asahi smashed a beautiful spike down on the other side of the net, Kinoshita and Tsukishima too shocked to attempt the block, just staring at the strawberry blonde girl on the other side of the gym.  

Nakano landed on her feet, and promptly fell to the floor.

Silence held the room for a moment as Nakano sat up.  Then, all hell broke loose.

"From there?  How did she set that from there?"

"You really are the Queen of the Court!"

"Oh my gosh...that was AMAZING!!!"

"Did you see that?  She was like PWAH and the ball went FWOOM!  She's better than you, Kageyama!"

"Just incredible!  How was that possible?"

"Nakano, are you alright?"  Kiyoko had run over to the girl.  At her words, the boys finally realized that Nakano was on the floor, and began to run over to her.

Nakano rubbed at her legs and smiled up at Kiyoko.  "Yeah, I'm okay.  Jumping is not really a thing for me yet.  My legs kind of gave out on impact."  She rubbed the back of her neck, looking a bit embarrassed.  Kageyama offered her his hand.  "I'm really sorry about that," he said, looking sheepish.  Nakano gave him a knowing look back, and he blushed.  "It's okay," she said in a tone of voice that made everyone sure she'd be talking to him about this later.  Nakano turned to Daichi as she got back on her feet with Kageyama's help.  "I'm sorry to have interrupted the game, Captain.  Force of habit."  She tried to bow, but her legs wobbled and she pitched forward.  Daichi and Kageyama both reached out to catch her.  "Woah there, don't worry about our game...are you okay?" Daichi asked.  "Maybe we'd better get you to the nurse..."

Nakano steadied herself and shook her head.  "No...no need.  I will need to sit for a bit, and then treat my legs.  I've got everything I need in my medical bag.  Can someone bring my wheelchair..."

Tsukishima walked up pushing her chair.  "Here," he said simply.  "Looks to me like you need to be done for today."

She gave him a lopsided smile.  "Thanks, Tsukishima.  Sorry about the water bottles.  They might not be quite as cold as you were hoping anymore."  He colored a bit and looked away.  

"Should I push..." Kageyama began.

"Nope," Nakano smiled.  "You guys need to get back to your game.  Kiyoko, I'll take over scoring, and I've got some notes to add to yours.  If you don't mind finishing up the bottles and towels, that would be great.  When you can, relieve me and I'll take care of my legs.  Captain, I might need to stay in the changing room for a few extra minutes before heading home."

"That's fine.  Let's get back to the game guys."  Daichi leaned over to Nakano.  "One of us will make sure you get home safely." Nakano opened her mouth, but Daichi cut her off.  "Don't even try it.  One of us will make sure you get all the way home."  Nakano closed her mouth, knowing that this was not an argument she would win.  He smiled at her and returned to the court.  

Asahi hung back, waiting until the others had headed back on to the court.  "That set was amazing," he said.  "Thanks, Ace," Nakano replied, "but you made the kill, not even knowing that set was coming.  You're pretty awesome, Asahi."  She headed over towards the scoreboard, leaving Asahi blushing as he jogged back into position.

🏐🏐🏐

In the end, it was determined that Tsukishima would make sure Nakano got all the way to her house, as she lived one street over from him.  Daichi insisted on pushing Nakano's wheelchair until they parted, at which point Yamaguchi insisted on taking over.

"Yams, you really don't have to..."

"Nakano, please let me help.  You fell down, you should take it a little easy."

Tsukishima had his headphones on.  He had some mixed feelings about the whole water bottle incident.  He felt bad for teasing her about it...she seemed like she was genuinely sorry that they might not be cold enough.  But by the same token, he'd already learned enough about Nakano to know that she might just be messing with him.   And he was still trying to understand her need to bond with the team.  He'd not really understood the whole "Queen of the Court" thing, but given her ability to pull off the set she did, she'd obviously been one hell of a volleyball player before her accident.  How did she manage to keep her skills up all this time, he wondered.  All of the thoughts and emotions swirling in his head made him tired.  He decided to just let the music help push them aside for now and deal with it later.

Yamaguchi parted ways with the pair, wishing them both a safe journey home.  Nakano took over, moving herself quickly forward.  Tsukishima had to increase his pace to keep up with her.  

"Tsukishima?"

"Hmm?"

"You don't have to stay with me.  I can get home just fine."

"Daichi said I need to see you actually get into your house.  So that's what I will do.  I've got no intention of getting in trouble with the captain and being made to do laps or something on your account."  Telling her she was actually moving faster than he might ordinarily walk was definitely out of the question.

Silence fell between them for a while.  Nakano finally broke it.

"What are you listening to?"

"Babymetal, at the moment."

"Hmmm.  Ever listen to Metallica?"

Tsukishima pulled the headphones off, and Nakano caught a little of the music blaring out of them.  "Isn't that a little...well...kinda old?"

Nakano scoffed.  "Old school, maybe, and awesome.  You should give it a try.  I'm sure your English is good enough to enjoy them."

"I'm surprised you listen to metal."

"Oh?" She smirked up at him. "And just what sort of music did you think I'd listen to?"

He returned the smirk.  "J-pop, or maybe some Disney tunes.  Something fluffy and girly and mindless...you know, kinda like you."

She laughed out loud, and Tsukishima stared at her.  That was not the reaction he was expecting.  "Well, you're not wrong.  I listen to all of that, and a whole lot more.  I like most kinds of music, to be honest.  If that makes me fluffy and girly and mindless...well...guilty as charged then."  Her face changed, her eyes softening and dimming as she stared straight ahead.  Her voice dropped down, as if she'd forgotten there was someone listening to her.  "Sometimes, mindless music is the only way to make it through the day, you know?  Sometimes, you just don't have the energy for anything more than that.  And other times...well...you need something that lets out the feelings trapped inside.  Metal can be really good for that."  Tsukishima listened to her, surprised.  This doesn't seem like the optimistic Nakano who so quickly befriended the team, he thought.  What's going on in her mind right now?

She seemed to snap out of her mood.  "Well, this is mine.  Thanks for walking me home, Tsukishima."  

"You can use it, you know."

"Huh?"

"I said you can call me Tsukki.  You did before."

"Yeah, but I also said I'd use it sparingly.  You only agreed to get me to shut up, after all."

She made her way up to her front door, getting out her keys and standing up.

"So what Metallica song do you recommend I start with?"

She turned back to him and thought a moment.  A small smile crept up on to her face.  "Try 'Enter Sandman'."  She opened her front door. "Goodnight, Tsukki.  Get home safe...and sweet dreams," she said with an odd lilt to her voice.

"Goodnight."  He watched her go in and close the door.  Sweet dreams? What was that about?

🏐🏐🏐

Later that night, as Tsukishima was getting ready for bed, he pulled up 'Enter Sandman' by Metallica.  He lay on his bed, listening to the lyrics.

Something's wrong, shut the light, heavy thoughts tonight
And they aren't Snow White
Dreams of war, dreams of liars, dreams of dragon's fire
And of things that will bite, yeah

He chuckled, remembering Nakano telling him to have sweet dreams.  And then he remembered what she'd said about music like this.  

And other times...well...you need something that lets out the feelings trapped inside. Metal can be really good for that.

What feelings inside you make you want this music?  When do you turn to this kind of song?  

Tsukishima drifted into sleep wondering about the girl who'd suggested this music for him.

Chapter Text

Afternoon practice was proceeding normally, when Daichi called Nakano over to the side of the gym.  She was running laps indoors, working on her stamina while still being available should Kiyoko need any assistance.  She jogged over to Daichi.  "What can I do for you, Cap?" she said breathlessly.

Daichi handed her a towel and a water bottle.  Nakano chuckled.  "That's my job, ya know."  Daichi smiled.  "Have a seat, Nakano.  I'd like to talk with you a little."

Her smiled faded and she took a long pull from the water bottle, draping the towel around her neck and sitting down as asked.  "Did I do something wrong, sir?"

Daichi waved his hands.  "No, no, of course not.  I just wanted to ask you about something, if that's okay."

"Of course.  Please, ask away."

"Well...training camp begins tomorrow..."

"I know!  I'm very excited!  And please don't worry - I've already talked to my doctors and I'll be sure to include enough exercises for myself to make up for the physical therapy sessions I'll be missing.  I should be able to complete my regimen during your practice times and still be available to help Kiyoko with anything she will need me to do.  If needed, I can always do my exercises after training is done for the day..."

Daichi laughed.  "Woah, there, slow down!  I'm sure you'll get plenty of exercise dealing with this lot...I'm not worried about that!  What I am worried about is making sure you'll be safe and comfortable during the camp...especially at night."

"What do you mean, Cap?"

Daichi rubbed the back of his neck, and colored just ever so slightly.  "Well...Kiyoko doesn't plan to stay overnight with us, so I was wondering if..."

Nakano looked at Daichi, her blue eyes sharp.  "Please don't make me go home too, Cap.  I want to be with the team.  I need to give it everything I've got and if I go home, I can't do that.  Please, Daichi-san...I would miss so much time if I had to go back and forth every day.  I'll do whatever needs to be done, but please, don't make me miss this!"

A chuckle sounded behind the captain.  "You've lost this one, Daichi.  She's going to be staying no matter what you say."  Suga put a hand on Daichi's shoulder and smiled.  "You might as well start working under that assumption.  I'm sure she'll be fine."

Daichi sighed.  "I just don't know how I feel about her sleeping in a room all by herself."  He looked at Nakano.  "I mean, don't get me wrong, I know you're strong but...well...I'm not sure I'd be comfortable sleeping in a room all by myself!  It can get a little creepy here at night!"  

Nakano smiled fondly at her captain.  "Is that what you're worried about?"  She laughed out loud.  "Cap, I'll be fine.  I'm not afraid of the dark..."

"Nor will she be alone!  Her Tanaka-senpai will be there to protect her!" Tanaka came up and put an arm around Nakano's shoulders.  "I will ensure that the lady is perfectly safe."

Daichi glared at him.  "And who will make sure she's perfectly safe from you?"  Tanaka made a face as if to say 'how could you think such a thing of me?'

Suga laughed.  "Daichi, why don't you just have Nakano sleep in the big room with all of us?  We'll be there to make sure none of the other boys try anything funny, and Nakano won't have to be alone.  She can change in the restrooms, and we can do the same when necessary.  Seriously, I think it'll be fine."  Suga looked at Nakano.  "If that's okay with you, Nakano?"

Nakano smiled.  "Yes, I'd be fine with that, as long as the team is okay with it.  I want everyone to be comfortable."

Tanaka yanked off his shirt and twirled it around.  "ALL RIGHT!!! SLEEPOVER WITH NAKANO!!!"

"WHAAAAAAAAT??!!!" Nishinoya yelled from across the gym.

Tsukishima was on the court, not too far from where the four players were talking, working on receiving.  He clicked his tongue and diverted his attention to the group.  "Well, how unusual.  The servant being allowed to bunk in the master's quarters.  This must be a banner event for you, ball girl," Tsukishima said loudly enough for everyone to hear.

Suga, Daichi and Tanaka immediately began to take Tsukishima to task for his words.  Nakano seemed to be focused elsewhere.  She suddenly jumped up and hip-checked Tsukishima to the side, and then received the volleyball that would have caught Tsukishima in the head had she not moved him out of the way.  The ball flew back across the net, landing in the hands of the person who'd sent it over in the first place - Kageyama.  Her bright blue eyes caught his dark blue ones for a moment, and Kageyama looked away.

"It's a good thing I'll be quartered with you, Tsukishima," Nakano said, turning to smirk at the blonde who was lying on the gym floor.  "Otherwise, I'd worry that I wouldn't be there to save you from dangers like this."  She offered him her hand to help him up.  He took her hand, but didn't allow her to apply much leverage to assist him.  "Sorry about the hip check," she said.

Yamaguchi jogged up while chuckling.  "She got you again, Tsukki."

"Shut up, Yamaguchi."

"Sorry, Tsukki."  He chuckled again.

"Woah...nice receive, Nakano!  That was killer! You are the Queen of the Court for sure!"  Nishinoya offered her a high ten, and she slapped and grabbed his hands, swinging them down.  

"Thanks, Noya-senpai!"

"How did you get that nickname, anyway?  Did you treat your team like dirt just like the King?" Tsukishima asked with a sneer.

Kageyama glared at the blonde as he ran up. "No, you four-eyed jackass!  She got that name because she's the best!  She was a true leader for her team and they were well on their way to being national champions before her accident, so just QUIT TREATING HER LIKE A DAMN SLAVE YOU BASTARD!!" He grabbed the front of Tsukishima's shirt and started shaking him.

"KAGEYAMA!  STOP IT!!!" Nakano grabbed hold of his arm as Daichi and Tanaka moved in to help while Suga and Yamaguchi pulled Tsukishima back. 

Nakano leaned in to whisper in Kageyama's ear.  "Please, Kags, don't do this.  I need this team.  Please.  Don't ruin this for me.  I got this."  Kageyama let out a shaky breath and let go of Tsukishima's shirt.

The tall blonde gave the raven-haired setter his signature smirk.  "Is the King defending his Queen?  How romantic.  I had no idea you were capable of such feelings, Your Majesty.  But then again, she's not your usual peasant teammate, is she?  Even you said she was the best.  Going soft on us, are you?"  

Kageyama scowled at him.  "You're just damn lucky she's a better person than you or I, you jackass.  Or I'd deck you into next week." 

Daichi laid a hand on both boys' shoulders.  "I think that's quite enough," he said in a voice that made everyone in the room shiver.  Nakano bowed.  "I'm sorry about this Captain," she said.

"You have absolutely nothing to be sorry for, Nakano," Daichi growled.  "You two, however, will give me 50 penalty laps around the gym.  NOW."  Both boys groaned.  "Wanna make it 100?" Daichi countered.  Both boys shuddered and started running.

Nakano drew a shaky breath and turned to Daichi again.  "Cap, I'm a little shaky after that, so I'm going to go treat my legs, okay?  I'll come back down to clean up when I'm done. " She turned to the boys running their penalty laps.  "Kageyama!" she yelled, "you're walking me home, got it?!"

Suga chuckled as the girl walked off.  "Should be an interesting camp week..."

🏐🏐🏐

When Nakano returned to the gym, she was once again wearing her braces, which slowed her movements.  By the time she finished all the cleaning chores, everyone was gone except for Kageyama.  And that was just how she'd planned it.

The two locked the gym doors, and started walking.  Kageyama wouldn't even look at the girl.  Nakano let the silence stay for a bit, until they were finally off the school campus.  

"All right, Tobio-chan, are you going to explain to me what the heck you think you're doing?"

The raven-haired setter started at the use of his name.

"N-naka-chan...what do you mean?"

She smiled at him. "Well, at least you still remember what you used to call me when we were alone back in middle school."  

"How could I forget?  We were best friends that first year."

"Only the first year?"

"No...but you know what I mean."

"Yeah...it was hard to stay connected with me being out for so much medical stuff for so long."

Silence fell between them again.  Kageyama felt his face heating up.

"Look...I...I didn't mean to lose touch with you...but I..."

"That's not what we need to talk about, Tobio-chan."  She gave him a sharp look.  "Just what were you thinking?  First the set, and now a receive?  What are you trying to do?"

"I...uh...those...those were acciden..."

She snorted.  "Kageyama Tobio, you have never missed a serve that badly since your first year of middle school.  You knew exactly where you were aiming and what you wanted to me do.  Both times.  What if I hadn't had the mobility?  You could have really hurt Tsukishima today...he wasn't looking."

"Would've served that four-eyed bastard right then," Kageyama muttered.

"Tobio-chan!"

"Look, I knew you'd watch the ball!  I knew you wouldn't let him get hurt, okay?  Once you did that set, I knew you'd somehow managed to keep up your skills and there was no way you'd let a ball hit a teammate.  How did you do it?  Where have you been playing volleyb..."

"We are not talking about me right now," she said with a hard voice.  "We are talking about why the heck you would do this at all.  You know I can't play yet.  If I could, I'd be on the girls' team.  So why, Tobio-chan?  I'm trying to be useful to the team, doing what I can for them right now.  I'm not the Queen of the Court anymore.  Why are you trying to show off my skills to them?"

"Dammit Naka-chan!  He keeps belittling you!  You are the Queen of the Court!  You're not some ball girl like that asshole keeps calling you!  He needs to know that you are so much better than he is!  So much better than all of us!"

"Woah, there, no way.  I am not better than all of you.  I'll give you that I'm a good setter..."

"The best setter."

"...but all of you have amazing skills.  Even Hinata!  His talent is raw and untrained but it's there!  I'm telling you, Tobio-chan, you guys are gonna go far."

"That doesn't give Shittyshima the right to treat you like that."

"No, it doesn't.  But damn if he isn't a salty ass."  She chuckled. "If that's the game he wants to play, then I'll play.  But dammit, I'm not above being a ball girl and taking some shit from him if it gets me back on the court!  I need this, Tobio-chan.  I can't work with the girls, because I can't deal with the fact that I can't be a proper member of the team.  For the boys, I'm not allowed to play in your games.  So all I can do is support you.  Daichi is letting me do that.  I told him I'd do whatever the team needs, including being a ball girl if that's what helps!"

"But you can do so much more for us..."

"I know!  And I want to!  But two things have to happen first.  One, I've got to be physically capable of doing it.  I'm working on that part as hard as I can.  Two...they've got to trust me.  And that trust has to be earned over time!  Tobio-chan, it's only been like a week!  I promise, I'm okay doing what I have to do to earn the team's trust...including Tsukishima's trust.  Pushing me in front of them by making them not trust you is not what is best for this team!  You've got to stop, okay?  Please!"  She stopped walking and grabbed his shoulders.  "I'm excited to be part of a team with you.  And I'm even more excited to see you become part of a team yourself.  But if you can't learn to control your temper, I'm gonna have to leave the team...because they need you more than they need me."

"Naka-chan..."

"Promise me, Tobio-chan!  Let me do this!"

He sighed.  "Okay, Naka-chan.  I promise.  No more deliberate set ups."

"And...?"

He sighed again. "And I'll let you deal with Shittyshima's crappy-ass attitude towards you," he growled out through gritted teeth.

She laughed and pulled him into a hug. "Thanks, Tobio-chan."

The raven-haired boy's face turned bright red as he hugged his friend back.  

"All right," she said, breaking them out of the hug. "Time for you to head home."

"But..."

"I will be fine!  Training camp starts tomorrow, and my house is way out of your way.  So please..."

"No way.  I'm not letting you walk home alone at this time..."

"She won't be alone, Your Majesty.  I'll see her home."  Tsukishima walked over to the pair.

Kageyama glared at him.  "What the hell are you..."

Tsukishima glanced over towards the store across the road.  "I stopped in to grab a couple things, and saw you when I came out.  So go on home.  Nakano lives close to my place so it's easier for me to walk her there."

Nakano gave Kageyama a look, and he knew what it meant.  He sighed again.  "All right.  Fine.  But text me when you get home, okay, Nakano?  And if he says so much as one unkind word..."

"...I'll be sure to kick him in the ass,"  Nakano chuckled.  "Get home safe, Kags.  Goodnight!"

"Goodnight, Nakano."  Kageyama headed off for home.

Tsukishima and Nakano began walking towards their neighborhood.  

"I don't think you can kick my ass with those braces on, can you?" Tsukishima smirked at her.

"Want to test that assumption, Tsukki?" She glared at him.  "Eavesdropping is a pretty dick move, don't you think?  How long were you behind us?  I know you heard me make him promise to let me deal with your salty self.  Don't think for one second that gives you license to torment him, got it?"

Tsukishima's eyes went wide.  Damn, he thought, how the hell did she know?  Judging by the look on her face, there was no point in denying it.  It was obvious she'd wanted to talk to Kageyama alone, and his curiosity got the better of him.  I never thought she'd be able to spot me.  Seems I'm making a habit of underestimating her.  

He spread his hands wide.  "Fine, I admit I did hear a little of your conversation.  And saw that adorable hug you shared.  How sweet...a royal romance."

She smirked at him again.  "Your jealousy is showing, Tsukishima.  I'm sure you're just aching to have me wrap my arms around you."  Nice redirect, Tsukki, she thought.  You heard more than just a little, and you don't want me to know how much.  Fine by me.

His cheeks flushed ever so slightly pink. "Don't flatter yourself!"

"I can say the same to you."

They walked in silence a little longer.  Tsukishima watched her face out of the corner of his eye.  "You made a hell of a receive today," he suddenly said.

"Thanks, Tsukki.  I'm sorry I knocked you aside - my body just moved on instinct."

"No problem.  I'd rather hit the floor than take the King's serve to the head, thank you very much."  He looked at her directly.  "You have good instincts."

Nakano let out a small chuckle.  She turned away.  "Well, you should get home.  I can go the last block myself."

"I said I would see you..."

"It's late, and we have a big week starting tomorrow.  Go on home - this is your street, right?  Mine is just one block up.  It's a safe neighborhood.  I got this, okay?"

He rolled his eyes.  "Fine.  I'll see you tomorrow."

"Goodnight, Tsukki."  She headed onward.  Tsukishima watched her go.  She knows, he thought.  She knows I heard nearly every word they said.  She could have called me out, but didn't.  Maybe she wanted me to hear?  She's...something else.  Dammit, what the hell is that supposed to mean?  He headed down his street, his thoughts once again full of the strawberry blonde haired girl.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano made it to her room and flopped on her bed.  Ugh, stupid Tsukki, she thought.  I hope you got what you wanted.  Maybe you'll be a little less of a jerk now.  She knew he'd heard almost everything she and Kageyama had talked about.  "So help me," she muttered under her breath, "if he calls him Tobio-chan in my hearing I will break him." 

She grabbed her phone and texted Kageyama.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey, I'm home.  No problems.  He was almost a gentleman.  😏

Milky Boy 🥛
Must be your influence.  Glad you're home safe.  See ya tomorrow.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Night, Kags. 😴

Tossing her phone on the nightstand, Nakano began to do her night routine.  She was really tired, but she knew if she didn't take care of her legs, she'd regret it tomorrow.  As she began to massage the medicated cream into her legs, her phone dinged.

Salty Ass 🧂
I assume you made it home alright?

Tsukishima is checking on me?  What the heck?  Nakano thought.

Queen Setter 🏐
I did indeed.  Thanks for checking in.

Salty Ass 🧂
Goodnight, Nakano.

Queen Setter 🏐
Night, Tsukki.  Sweet dreams. 😏

Salty Ass 🧂
I listened to that song, by the way.  It was pretty good.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Glad you liked it.  Metallica's pretty awesome, I hope you'll listen to more of them.

Well this is unexpected, she thought.  I never thought I'd be chatting with Tsukki tonight.  I wonder if he feels just a little guilty...nah.  She chuckled.

Salty Ass 🧂
I will.  See you tomorrow.

Queen Setter 🏐
Bright and early. 🍊

Salty Ass 🧂
Lol is that supposed to be the shrimp?

Holy crap, did he just say lol?  What is he on?

Queen Setter 🏐
Heh heh yeah - he's the definition of bright eyed and bushy tailed.

Salty Ass 🧂
You're not wrong.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Get to bed, Tsukki.  

Salty Ass 🧂
Wishing you were here so you could join me? 😏

Queen Setter 🏐
I'm sure you are wishing that. 😏

Salty Ass 🧂
Night, Nakano.

Queen Setter 🏐
Goodnight, Tsukki.

Well that just happened, Nakano thought as she returned to massaging her legs.  Maybe he's not so much of a jerk after all.

Nah...

🏐🏐🏐

Hinata was racing around through the building where they would be staying on the school campus, amazed by everything.  Nakano couldn't help but laugh.  He was such a ball of sunshine, she almost couldn't take it.

"Shoyo, I gotta say, I love that even the bathroom impresses you," Nakano said, laughing aloud.

"Did you see it, Nakano?  It's got a really big bath!  It's awesome!"

"I hope there's a girls' room with a similar set up..." she said smiling.

After everyone had bathed and changed they began to settle down in the big sleeping room for the evening.  Well, nearly everyone had changed.  Nakano was studiously avoiding looking at the handful of boys who were still shirtless.  Asahi was particularly distracting...but fortunately also rather shy as he quickly yanked a tee shirt over his head.  Nishinoya on the other hand, seemed determined to go without a shirt for as long as possible.  Narita finally slapped the back of his head and whispered something at him.  Nakano chuckled as he grabbed a tee shirt and walked over to her.

"Hey Nakano!" the libero called out to her, "Does it bother you if I don't have a shirt on?"

Nakano smiled at him.  He looked cute with his hair down, too. "No, Noya-senpai.  I don't mind at all.  You're very handsome," Nakano said with a sexy lilt to her voice.  The room stopped.

Noya turned to face the other guys.  "See?  She doesn't mind, she even said I-I-I'm..." Noya.exe suddenly stopped working as he processed the second half of her statement.  He fell to the ground.  "S-s-s-s-sheeee...uhhhhhh...wow..."  

Nakano burst out laughing.  "I'm sorry, Noya-senpai," she gasped out between laughs.  "I just couldn't resist."  The other boys began to chuckle and things seemed to go back to normal.

Noya dropped his dramatic act and sat up.  "So, you don't think I'm handsome?"  He looked at her with puppy dog eyes.

She smiled at him.  "Of course you are, silly.  Now put your shirt on."

He tugged the tee over his head.  "Dang, Nakano," he smiled, "Why you gotta do me like that?"

She reached over and ruffled his hair.  "'Cause I'm your favorite kohai."  He laughed.  "You're not wrong!" he replied.  She giggled.

Yamaguchi came over and joined the two as Nakano draped a blanket over her legs.  "Hey, Nakano?"

"Yes, Yams?" She removed one of her braces from under the blanket, setting it aside.

"Ummm..." Tadashi rubbed the back of his neck and looked at the floor.  She's hiding her legs, he thought.  Maybe I shouldn't say anything.  But...I want to know more about her...  "I...I don't want to seem rude...or insensitive..."

Nakano smiled up at her freckled friend.  "...but you're curious about what I'm doing, right?  Or maybe you've wanted to ask me some questions in general about my condition, hmmm?"

Tsukishima began to take an interest in the conversation happening in the corner with the blue-eyed girl.  He started to slowly make his way over.  

Daichi got there first, however.  "Now, guys, let's not pry.  If Nakano wants to..."  

"It's okay, Cap," Nakano interrupted Daichi with a smile.  "I don't mind answering some questions.  I know you guys must be kind of curious." She colored just a bit, the only evidence that she was feeling a little nervous.  But I need to show that I trust them, if I want them to trust me, she thought. 

Daichi smiled and sat down next to Tadashi.  "Okay then, whatever you feel comfortable with, Nakano.  But please feel free to tell us if you've had enough or feel like it's gotten too personal."

Nakano smiled again.  "So...Yams, you had a question?"

"Well...I was really surprised the first time I saw you without the braces on.  I figured you had to wear them all the time!"

"Well, at first, I did.  Actually, even before that, I was completely confined to a wheelchair - a larger one than the simple folding one I use now.  Back then, my legs were basically useless.  But now, I've had surgeries to reconstruct them, and I do a lot of physical therapy to try to get my legs back to full function.  I keep the chair and the braces to support myself when the muscles in my legs have had enough.  But the goal is eventually to not need any support any more."  She removed the second brace and set it next to the first one.

"How many surgeries did you have?" Hinata chimed in, joining the little group at Nakano's corner of the room.  

Kageyama walked up and smacked the back of Hinata's head.  "Why are you asking about something like that, dumbass?"

"Hey!  She said we could..."

Nakano chuckled.  "It's okay, Kags, really."  He sat down next to Nakano, watching her face.  If she gets upset, he thought, I'm putting a stop to this.  Nakano went on.  "Well...if you count the surgery on the day of my accident, I've had four surgeries total.  All four were pretty major.  There was a chance I'd need another, more minor surgery, but it's been a year since my doctor mentioned it last, so I'm hopeful I managed to dodge that one."  

Suga chimed in from the center of the room.  "Hey Nakano...if you don't mind telling us...what happened to you?"

A pained look crossed Nakano's face briefly.  Kageyama caught it, and placed a hand on her shoulder.  "You don't have to say," he whispered to her.  She smiled at him and patted his hand.  

"I was walking home from volleyball practice...long about the middle of my first year of middle school.  I was hit by a drunk driver as I was crossing the street,"  Nakano said in a rush.  She stopped and took a deep breath.

Suga looked up at her.  "Oh wow...I am so sorry...I shouldn't have asked."

"No, Suga, it's okay.  It's...just not easy to think about."  Kageyama squeezed her shoulder.

Asahi spoke up.  "Well, I'm really glad we can be part of your recovery."  

Nakano shot him a winning smile.  "Thanks, Ace!"  Asahi blushed.  Nakano grabbed her medication and began massaging it into her legs under the blanket.

"What's that?" Yamaguchi asked.

"Medication," Nakano replied.  "I have to massage it into my legs at least twice a day.  More if I overdo it with the exercise," Nakano smiled sheepishly.

"Now, please don't do that this week, okay?" Narita called from across the room.

"You'd better not!" Suga said.

"You...you're feeling okay, right?  You're not doing that because we overworked you?" Asahi looked upset.

Nakano laughed.  "No, no...I do this every night before bed.  I'll also do it in the morning.  But please don't worry if I have to take a break to massage my legs during these training days.  Four massages a day is about my average."

"Four?  Is your doctor okay with that?" Ennoshita asked.  

"Well, considering it's his fault that I have to do it..." Nakano chuckled.  "The biggest strain on my legs most weeks is my physical therapy, which I do three days a week, sometimes four if they call me in on a weekend day.  Those are almost always four-massage days.  I've been able to get away with three on the other days, sometimes even just the two!"  Nakano decided not to tell the group that with addition of daily volleyball practice, she occasionally had to massage her legs five times a day, and never less than three.

"What were the odds?"

The group looked up, surprised that Tsukishima joined in the conversation.

Nakano tensed up, and Kageyama felt it.  He glared at Tsukishima.

"What do you mean?" Nakano asked, trying to keep her voice level.

"What chance did they give you to ever walk again?"

Nakano looked down and breathed in deep.  Kageyama started to get up. "Dammit..."  Nakano put a hand on his leg and stopped him.  She looked up at Tsukishima, and her eyes were so bright they almost seemed to burn from within.  Tsukishima's eyes widened.  He'd seen her look determined before, but this was on a whole different level.

"Twenty percent."

The room was silent.  All eyes were on Nakano.  But Tsukishima noticed that her eyes seemed to see right through him as she spoke again.

"But I was damned if they were gonna keep me off the court."

The silence in the room was deafening.  Until a small sound was heard, building in intensity as it reached a crescendo.

"aaaaaaaaAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWW WOW!!! NAKANO IS SO COOL!!!" Hinata exploded from his spot and tackled Nakano into a hug, flattening her to the ground with him on top of her.  "You were right Noya!" Shoyo continued, "She is killer!  She used to be Kitagawa First's Queen of the Court, but now she's Karasuno's Killer Queen!"

"HINATA YOU DUMBASS!! GET OFF HER!!!" Kageyama grabbed hold of Hinata as Nakano laughed beneath Shoyo's body. The pair began to squabble.  As if a spell had broken, Noya and Tanaka went nuts cheering for Nakano, and Suga and Daichi began to try to restore order.  

Tsukishima walked slowly over to his own futon.  Twenty percent, he thought.  Damn.  How many people would even bother trying?  And how the hell did she go from a twenty percent chance of walking again to playing volleyball in three years?  There was so much more he wanted to know about her story.  But as he settled down on his futon to wait for the rest of the team to calm down, all Tsukishima could think about was the intense passion he'd seen behind Nakano's eyes as she'd spoken her last sentence.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano walked down a long hallway, headed back to the big sleeping room to massage her legs.  It had been an intense couple of days.  Between practice, keeping up with the duties of assistant manager, and cooking with Kiyoko and Takeda-sensei, she was feeling both happy and exhausted.  Daichi had even let her set for some spiking drills...as long as she promised to take it easy and not jump.  The boys were fun to toss to, and it felt good to be on the court again.

As she approached the end of the hallway, she saw Daichi and Asahi standing flat against the edge of the wall.  "Hey guys, wha..."

Daichi motioned for her to be quiet and join them.  She flattened herself against the wall too, and caught the sound of Suga's voice.  He was talking to the Coach...about the setter position.  As she listened to the words of the silver-haired setter, Nakano had to cover her mouth and bite her own hand to keep from sobbing aloud.  Tears rolled gently down her cheeks as she listened.  Suga was entirely willing to put the needs of the team before his own desire to play.  He's so brave, she thought.  Braver than I could ever be.  

Later that night, Nakano looked over at Suga in the big sleeping room.  He was still awake, working on schoolwork by the light of his phone as the rest of the team slept.  He's just amazing, she thought.  I wonder if he knows that.  Nakano made a decision.  She got up, and softly walked over to sit in front of the third-year's futon.

"Nakano," Suga whispered, "I'm so sorry, did the light of my phone wake you up?"  He looked into Nakano's face, unable to read the emotions there.  He sat up, setting his phone aside.  "Are you alright, Nakano?"

"Sugawara Koshi," Nakano grabbed him into a tight hug, "you are one of the bravest, most amazing people I've ever known." She whispered in his ear.  "I'm so proud to be your teammate."

Suga was astonished.  "What...what's this all about?"  His phone dimmed and the two were suddenly in the dark.  

"I heard you talking to Coach today."  She steadfastly refused to stop hugging her fellow setter.

"Oh," Suga gave up, relaxing and embracing the girl.  "Well, coming from you, this is high praise.  I can't imagine anyone braver than you after all you've..."

"No, Suga," she suddenly said, leaning back out of the hug.  "Everything I've done, I've done so I can be on the court again.  I've done it selfishly, for me, so I can play.  What you did today, you did for the team.  You were willing to sacrifice your time on the court so that the team can move forward.  I can't think of anything braver than that."  She gave her senpai a kiss on the cheek.  "I just wanted you to know that I know just how awesome you are.  Goodnight, Suga."

Suga was grateful for the darkness so the girl couldn't see the deep blush on his face.  He hadn't known anyone was listening, and he certainly hadn't thought of himself as brave. "Goodnight, Nakano."

So she thinks she's selfish, Tsukishima thought.  And she admires people who put the team ahead of themselves.  Pfft, then how the heck does she tolerate the King?  I just don't understand her sometimes. Why all this passion over a game?  He rolled over, trying to ignore the questions tumbling about in his mind.  As he slowly sank into sleep, a stray thought wandered through his head.  Suga is so lucky...

Chapter Text

Nakano awoke early and quietly slipped out of the big sleeping room.  Today was the day of the practice game against Nekoma, and she'd decided she wanted to make sure the boys had a perfect breakfast.  She walked down to the bathrooms to get ready.

The training camp had been a greater success than she had hoped.  She felt like she was really getting closer to the boys and building a good rapport with them.  And best of all, she hadn't had a recurrence of her nightmare since joining the team.  Not even on the first night of the camp, which frankly surprised her.  She'd fully expected to experience the accident over again after talking about it with the team that evening, even if it was only briefly.  Talking about that wasn't something she usually did, but she knew she wouldn't be able to avoid it forever.  Fortunately, things hadn't gotten too deep.  Thank goodness for Hinata and his wild enthusiasm.  His crazy outburst had almost certainly saved her from having to go into detail about things she preferred to simply no longer think about.  Luckily none of the boys directly commented on the fact that she'd kept her legs covered at all times, although she knew Yams had noticed it for sure.  And Tsukishima, of course.  She knew he would be aware.  Probably several of the others did too, but they were all kind enough not to mention it.  

Physically, this camp was really helping her.  Her stamina was increasing, that much she was sure of.  Soon she'd be able to join the boys on their 5 mile runs.  And it felt amazing to be able to handle a volleyball again in the company of real players, and not just her mom and her sister.  I can't believe it, she thought, this is actually working.  I think this might really be exactly what I needed.  I owe these guys so much already.  She quickly cleaned herself up and got dressed.  Time to show them just how much I appreciate what they've done for me.  She'd gotten Coach's permission to slip out to a nearby market and pick up some mackerel for today's breakfast.  Grilled mackerel, miso soup, and rice is like the perfect breakfast, she thought.  I hope the boys enjoy it.  

Nakano set to work with a will.  Cooking for 12 hungry boys, plus herself, Kiyoko, Coach and Takeda-sensei was no mean feat.  But she was ready.  She'd watched her sensei and her senpai carefully over the past several days and was pretty sure she had a good handle on just how much food she would need to make.  She paid extra attention to the grilled mackerel, making sure it was perfectly seasoned and prepared.  Soon, the whole place was filled with the delicious smell of breakfast.  I'll prepare eggs too, she thought, in several different ways, as I know some of the boys will really like that. Especially Tobio-chan.

Nishinoya was the first to stick his head in the kitchen.  "Nakano?  What smells so good?"

"Breakfast!" Nakano said with a big smile.  "Go tell the rest of the team to get in here.  They'd better be hungry!"  She didn't have to tell him twice.  Noya ran off, yelling at the rest of the team that Nakano had made them breakfast all by herself.

Coach Ukai was the first person to come in for a plate full.  "What's this?  You cooked all of this by yourself?  You should have let us know...we'd have come in early to help."

Nakano smiled.  "It's my pleasure, Coach.  I wanted to thank you guys for letting me be a part of the team.  And I want to make sure these boys are properly fueled up for today's match!"  The boys were filing in to get food, and Tanaka and Noya exploded into tears at her words.  "She's an angel!" Noya cried.  "We're so lucky!  We have a goddess and an angel attending us now!"  Tanaka agreed.  Nakano laughed  as she served them food.  "Just eat, my two favorite senpais.  There's plenty more too, so don't be shy."

Kiyoko grabbed an apron as she came in to the kitchen.  "I'll help with serving..." she started, but Nakano stopped her.  "I've got this, Kiyoko-senpai.  You've done so much for me and made me feel so welcome...let me serve you today, okay?"  Nakano handed her a full plate and took the apron back from her.  

Kageyama came in to get his food.  "Hey Nakano, are there any..." She handed him a fully prepared plate, but his had a soft boiled egg cut up on top.  "Just how you like it, correct?" He blushed as he accepted the plate from her.  "You remembered?" he asked.  Nakano chuckled.  "Of course, silly.  Now go eat."  She handed him a bowl full of rice. "And give this to Hinata please, I know he'll want extra rice."  Kageyama gave her small smile.  

Tsukishima was the last to come in for food.  She offered him a small curtsy as she extended a plate to him. "Your breakfast, m'lord, as prepared by your humble servant."  After a beat, she looked up at him with a smirk and sparkling eyes.  His face was passive, as always.  "Mhmm," he said taking the plate.  "What?!" Nakano gasped, "No stinging comment about how I finally managed to keep my place?  You disappoint me, Tsukki."  He clicked his tongue and turned to go.  "Just a moment!" Nakano called.  He turned back to see her with a sunny side up egg on a spatula.  She slipped it on to his plate.  "Sunny side up, right?  I hope you like it!"  

He stared at the plate.  She must have noticed I had them as often as I could in the morning, he thought.   Wow...she went through a lot of trouble.  He looked her straight in the eye.  "Thanks," he said, with the smallest of smiles.  Her blue eyes sparkled even more.  "You're quite welcome, it's my pleasure.  Oh!"  She handed him a plate with a poached egg on it.  "Would you give this to Yams?  I thought he mentioned liking poached eggs, and I forgot to put this on his plate."  He nodded and headed out to sit with Yamaguchi.  

A few minutes later Nakano came out of the kitchen with a plate of her own.  As one, the team stood and bowed to her.  "Thank you for the food!" they cried with enthusiasm.  She started and almost dropped her plate.  She bowed in return.  "Thank you for welcoming me!  Now, I'm going to eat too!  There's plenty more food all set out on the counter, so please help yourself to seconds!"  Kageyama, Hinata, Tanaka and Nishinoya immediately rushed to the kitchen as Nakano chuckled and sat down next to Yamaguchi.  

"Ugh, those four eat more food in a day than I could stomach in a month," Tsukishima grumbled.  "How is it that they don't throw up all over the court?"

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "Well, Hinata did throw up all over Tanaka..."

Nakano did a classic spit-take with her juice.  "HE WHAT?  When?"

"It was before you joined us," Yamaguchi explained.  "It was our very first practice match.  Hinata was so nervous he got sick all over Tanaka on the bus on the way over."

"It was hilarious," Tsukishima deadpanned, "and disgusting.  But even better was when he hit the King in the back of the head with his serve."

Nakano's jaw dropped.  "He hit Kags in the head...oh my goodness."  She completely cracked up laughing.  "That must have been quite the moment."

Yamaguchi laughed out loud as well.  "Yeah...Hinata was so panicked about playing against Seijioh that..."

"WAIT," Nakano said, in the most intense voice the boys had ever heard her use.  "You played against Aoba Johsai?"

Yamaguchi rubbed the back of his neck, unnerved by Nakano's reaction. "Uh...y-yeah, we did."

"Did you beat them?"

"W-w-what?"

Nakano's eyes seemed to bore into Yamaguchi's face.  "Did you beat them?  Did you kick Shittykawa's flat ass?"

"Uh...I d-d-don't...who..."

"I assume you mean their team captain, Oikawa?"  Tsukishima asked.  "I gather you're not a fangirl of his..." he smirked.

Nakano smacked the table with her hand.  "Don't.  Even. Say. His Name.  Did you beat him?"

"We did.  But he didn't play until the very last few minutes.  If he'd been on the court from the beginning, I don't think we could have won against them."  Tsukishima said.  "Why do you care so much about beating him?"

Nakano looked up at Tsukishima, and her blue eyes were once again on fire.  "It's nothing.  I'm glad you won.  Excuse me, I'm going to go start cleaning up."  Nakano left the table, her hands clenched into fists.  

"Now what was that all about..." Tsukishima mused aloud.

"I guess she really doesn't like Seijoh's captain," Yamaguchi replied.  He gestured to her plate.  "Man, after all her hard work, she barely ate."

"He went to Kitagawa First as well...she must have known him..."  Tsukishima stood up and picked up both his plate and Nakano's.  "I'm going to get some more food, I think."  He headed for the kitchen.

"But Tsukki, you've..." Yamaguchi started as he watched his friend walk away.  "...still got food on your plate."  I don't think I've ever seen Tsukki take this much interest in anyone else, he thought.  I wonder what's going on with him?

Tsukishima walked into the kitchen to find Nakano furiously scrubbing the pots she'd used to prepare the food.  Her face was bright red and she was muttering angrily.  Wow, he thought, she is really upset.  I don't understand what's going on in her head.  And for some reason, I really want to.  What is going on here?

"Hey," Tsukishima began, "you didn't eat anything."

"I'm not hungry."  Nakano scrubbed furiously.

"Stop that."

"No."

Tsukishima set the two plates down on the side.  He walked over to Nakano and grabbed her wrists.

"Hey, what the hell..."

"Look, I don't know what your problem with Oi..."

"DON'T!" Tsukishima started at how loudly Nakano yelled.  His reaction caused her to jump as well.  "Sorry.  I'm sorry.  Give me a moment."  She took several deep breaths, and seemed to regain some measure of control.  "May I have my hands back, please?"

"If I let go, will you eat?"

"I'm fine, I..."

"Nakano, you work your body harder than any of us.  You need to eat.  If you don't, you'll collapse on the court during the practice match and interrupt everything.  Today will be exhausting enough without having to deal with that too."

She looked into his eyes.  They're pretty, she thought.  Like toasted honey.  She chuckled.  I do believe this is his salty ass way of showing some concern.  She let out a sigh.  "Alright.  Give me the plate.  But you have to eat too."

"Deal."  He released her hands and grabbed the plates he'd brought in.  They both began to eat in silence.  "So," Tsukishima began after watching her eat about half her food, "do you want to talk about it?"

She sighed again.  "Honestly?  Not right now.  Maybe someday.  He's not coming here today and we should focus on who is."  She chuckled. "Let's just say your assessment earlier was correct.  I am most definitely not one of his stupid fangirls."  She smiled at the blonde.  "Thanks, Tsukki.  I'm sorry I lost my temper."

Tsukishima finished his food.  "Whatever," he said in a monotone.  "I just didn't want to have to deal with your sorry ass later today when we play against Nekoma."  He set his plate in the sink and walked out of the kitchen.

She looked down at her empty plate.  I'll be damned, she thought.  He waited until I'd finished everything I had before he finished his.  Well, well.  Looks like the salty ass has just the tiniest little soft side to him.  

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano chuckled to herself as she watched the Karasuno boys and the Nekoma boys size each other up.  Of course, Tanaka had to start something.  What a goofball.  Naturally, Suga worked on smoothing everything over, along with one of the other Nekoma players.  Does every team have a 'mom' like that? she wondered.  Oh my, she thought as she watched Daichi and the Nekoma captain interact. Those two are far too similar.  I hope they don't try to hurt each other's hands...

"Hey, Nakano?"  Kiyoko brought her back to the moment.

"Yes, Kiyoko?"

"Nekoma doesn't have a manager, so I thought..."

"Oh!  Really?  Well, I can get drinks and towels for them!  Not a problem."  Nakano looked around to see a pile of water bottles next to the bench that the Nekoma coaches were using.

"I'll help you..."

"No, no, Kiyoko!  You stay with our boys and take down notes and keep score.  I won't be on the court today, so I need to keep up my physical exercise to match the previous few days anyway.  It'll be good for me!  Really, I got this." Nakano turned away with an evil smirk on her face.  And it gives me the perfect opportunity to be in enemy territory during time outs and such, she thought gleefully.  She headed over to gather up Nekoma's water bottles.

"Uh...okay?"  Kiyoko said.  Kageyama was approaching them as Nakano turned away.  He caught the look on her face.  "Oh man," he said, "That's not good."

"What do you mean?" Kiyoko asked.

"She is definitely up to something ," Kageyama replied.

"She...she wouldn't...tamper with their sports drinks or something...would she?"

"Oh no, nothing like that," Kageyama replied.  "Why is she getting them drinks though?"

"They don't have a manager."

"Ah," Kageyama said, with a wicked grin that matched Nakano's.  "Then I'm sure we're going to learn a lot about Nekoma today."  Kiyoko looked at him quizzically as he walked off to warm up.

Nakano was very busy as the boys began to play their first set.  This is perfect, she thought, I have the perfect excuse to be around on their side of the court and observe.  And observe she did.  Nekoma turned out to be a fascinating team.

As they called for their first time out, Nakano moved quietly among them, handing out sports drinks and towels.  She tried to remain as unobtrusive as possible.  Only their player with the blond mohawk noticed her as he stammered out a thanks.  She smiled shyly at him and looked away.  Don't mind me, she thought, I'm just a girl with towels and water.  She listened carefully before moving back over to Karasuno's side of the court.

She whispered urgently as she passed by Coach Ukai, handing a water bottle and a towel to Tsukishima.  "They are going to be marking Hinata, trying to shut him down completely."  Ukai's eyes widened, as did Tsukishima's.  "So you're a spy?" the blonde middle blocker asked, "And here I thought you were a defector."

She snorted. "As if," Nakano replied as she dropped a towel on Hinata's head. "Watch their setter.  He makes no unnecessary moves.  And trust me, he'll be watching you carefully."

Daichi chuckled. "And here I thought you were just a nice girl, Nakano, helping out a team without a manager."

She flashed Daichi a sly grin. "I am helping out a team, Cap.  My team.  Now go take down those pussycats."

Nakano continued to relay whatever she could to Coach Ukai and her teammates as the day went on.  Through seven full sets, Karasuno was unable to close the deal.  They might get close, but Nekoma always managed to get to 25 first.  The boys were now playing their 8th set, and all of them looked exhausted.  Nakano was getting pretty wiped out too.  But they would want full bottles at the end of this set.  She got up from the Karasuno bench to get ready to bring around drinks and towels again.

"Before you go, Nakano, how would you assess the teams playing today?" Takeda-sensei asked her.  He'd been impressed by her commentary on the competition as the day had progressed.

"Well," she began thoughtfully, "we've got some good weapons.  And we are starting to learn how to use them effectively.  But Nekoma's receiving is on point.  Their setter is completely supported by the rest of the team, making their attacks seem almost effortless." She paused for a moment, choosing her words carefully. "But I'd say the biggest difference between us and Nekoma...the thing that's kept us from taking a set from them today...is that we are a group of individuals playing volleyball together."  The whistle blew, signaling another win for Nekoma.  "Nekoma is a team."  She moved off to begin offering the Karasuno boys water and towels.

"She's not wrong," Ukai said.

"Actually, I find her observations to be very astute." Takeda replied.  "She's really got a good eye for this kind of thing."  He smiled.  "I guess being a volleyball player herself makes it a bit easier for her to notice these things."

"It's more than that," Ukai replied, "she's an analyzer.  Watch her watch a game sometime.  You can see it in her face.  She's always thinking.  She's going to be as great an asset to this team as any one of those boys, I'm pretty sure of that."

The boys received their critiques from both coaches while Nakano moved among them, making sure everyone had plenty to drink and a clean towel.  Soon, the boys were breaking down the equipment and spending a few last moments bonding with one another before Nekoma had to depart.  This was great, she thought, we've made friends and rivals today.  That can only make us stronger.  She smiled as she watched Shoyo interact with the Nekoma setter.  Soon, he was waving at her.  "Nakano!  Over here!" She smiled and went to join the boys.  

"What's up, Shoyo?"  she asked.

"Kenma, this is Nakano!  She's amazing!"  Shoyo jumped up and down and Nakano chuckled.

"Nice to meet you, Kenma-san."  Nakano bowed gently to him.

"Hi," the two-tone haired boy said softly, "thanks for bringing us water and stuff."

She smiled brightly at him.  "My pleasure."

"Nakano's an awesome setter, Kenma!  Watch this!  Toss to me, Nakano!"

"What?  After all that?  Now, Shoyo?"

"PLEEEEASE!!  Just one toss!  Come on, please?"

Nakano laughed.  She looked over to see Yamaguchi and Tsukishima near the ball cart.  "Hey Yams!  Send one over here, please!"

"Yeah!"  Shoyo moved on to the court in anticipation.

"What's she up to?" Tsukishima asked.

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "I think Hinata wants another toss," he said as he threw a ball to Nakano.

"What's your cute little manager doing, guys?" The Nekoma captain asked as he strolled over to place a volleyball in the cart.  His eyes widened as he watched the girl position herself and deliver a beautiful set to the ginger spiker.  "Well damn, I guess she's more than just a cute little manager.  What's her story?"  The bedhead looked appreciatively at the strawberry blond girl.

Tsukishima glared at him.  "What do you mean?  She's just a girl."  His hands began to tighten into fists.

"Not just any girl..." the captain of Nekoma trotted over to pick up the volleyball Hinata had just spiked.

"See Kenma?  She's awesome!"  Hinata was bouncing around again as Nakano blushed.

"Yeah," Kenma replied, glancing up at Nakano, "that was a really nice set."

"Hey, pretty lady!  Toss one my way!"  Nakano looked up to see Nekoma's captain throw the ball to her again.  She scrolled through her memories of watching him spike, quickly moving to set the ball a bit higher and closer to the net than Shoyo usually hit.  He watched her toss the ball and then sprang into the air to slam it down across the net.  

He walked over to the girl with a smile on his face.  "Nice set," he purred, "if a little high for my taste."  

"Well, since you asked me for a toss, I assumed you wanted to watch my form, so I set it a bit higher than you needed so you could do your delayed spike.  Otherwise, you wouldn't have been able to watch me toss it."  Nakano smiled at him.

His eyes widened, as well as his smile.  He offered the girl his hand.  "Kuroo Tetsuro, captain of Nekoma."

"Ogawa Nakano, Karasuno's assistant manager.  It's a pleasure to meet you, Kuroo-san."  Nakano took his hand to shake it, but he immediately flipped her hand and brought it to his lips to kiss it.  She colored gently.  Well, well, aren't we the player, she thought.

"You're quite a setter.  How is you're not playing on the girls' team here?"  Kuroo asked.

"Well, I..."

"Nakano is recovering from an accident.  She'll be playing again in no time, though!"  Shoyo chimed in.  Nakano smiled at him.

"Well, my best wishes for your speedy recovery, then," Kuroo said, still holding Nakano's hand.  He turned her hand over to examine her palm.  "Tell me, Ogawa-chan, are you made of copper and tellurium?"  She looked at him, a bit puzzled.  "Because you are so CuTe."

Did he really just go there? A chemistry-based pick-up line?  He is beyond nerdy, she thought, offering the Nekoma captain a grin.  "Did you just work chemistry into a pick up line, Kuroo-san?" She gently removed her hand from his.

"Is he hitting on her?  He's hitting on her, isn't he?" Hinata asked Kenma.

Kenma rolled his eyes.  "Yeah, he does that."

Across the room Tsukishima's hands were now tightly clenched.  He stared intently at the captain of Nekoma's team, grimacing as he kissed Nakano's hand.  When he didn't let her hand go, but continued to play with it, he started to move forward.

"Tsukki, what are you doing?" Yamaguchi's question snapped him to reality.  

Tsukishima stopped himself, composing his face to his usual bland expression.  "Nothing," he said, "but he's being awfully forward with a girl he doesn't know."  His fists remained clenched.

"Looks like Kageyama agrees with you," Yamaguchi chuckled.  He pointed at the raven-haired setter, who's hands were also clenched into fists as he walked over to Nakano.

"I might have," Kuroo responded to Nakano's question, stepping slightly closer to her.  "Did it impress you?"

She chuckled.  "Well, it certain..."  Nakano's legs suddenly buckled.  Kuroo started and moved to steady her, but not before another arm caught her around her waist.  "Hey," Kuroo's voice held only concern now, "are you alright?"

Kageyama scooped Nakano up in his arms, carrying her bridal-style.  He glared at Kuroo.  "She'll be fine now.  She's run herself to her limit taking care of both her own team and yours.  So we'll be taking care of her now."  Nakano grabbed Kageyama around the neck.  She was only a couple of inches shorter than he was, and she felt a little precarious in his grasp.

"Kags, I can walk, you can..."

"I don't think so, Nakano," Kageyama growled as he carried her over to her wheelchair.  "I'm taking care of you now, so be quiet."  What is this feeling in my chest?  Kageyama thought to himself.  Why do I feel so...protective of her?  Watching him kiss her hand...it made me feel so...angry...like I wanted to punch him in the face for touching her.

Tsukishima called out from across the gym.  "Well, well, the royal romance continues.  Has the King rescued his darling Queen from a knave bent on sullying her reputation? " He walked over toward the pair.  "How precious.  I may vomit."  

Kageyama snarled at him, but Nakano just laughed.  "Don't mind him, Kags.  He's just sad that this fair maiden doesn't seem interested in pursuing a knight that occasionally needs rescuing himself."  She smirked at the blonde.  "Isn't that right, Tsukishima?"  He clicked his tongue and stalked off.

"Did he just call me a knave?" Kuroo asked, unsure whether or not he should feel insulted.

"Just stop it.  You're so creepy sometimes."  Kenma headed off to collect his bag and get out his phone.

Kuroo followed behind him.  "Hey...I am not creepy..."

🏐🏐🏐

Kageyama did not leave Nakano's side after he carried her to her chair, and he insisted that he would take her all the way home this time.  Coach Ukai insisted that Nakano let him, and that they leave as soon as the team meeting was over.  And so, Tsukishima and Yamaguchi found themselves walking home alone from the camp.  Tsukishima was wearing his headphones, hoping Yamaguchi wouldn't bring up his odd reaction to Kuroo's attempt to flirt with Nakano.

"Hey...uh...Tsukki?"

And there it was.  Tsukishima sighed and took off the headphones.  "What?"

"Can I...uh...ask you something?"

"Just get on with it, Yamaguchi."

"What's going on with you?"

"What do you mean?"

"Well...you've seemed...really distracted the past week or two.  Especially whenever Nakano is around.  Do you...perhaps...have..."

"Don't even think that, Yamaguchi.  I don't have any particular feelings for her, other than confusion.  She confuses me." Yamaguchi looked at his friend's face.  He looked confused, all right, but there was something more to it than that.  An intensity lay behind his eyes that Yamaguchi didn't expect to see.  "She's so...odd.  She's so intent on becoming part of our team.  Why?  What is she getting out of it?  She seems to value team players, and yet she's obviously very close to the King, who is like the poster child for completely lacking the ability to work with a team.  She's sassy one minute and then kind the next." Tsukishima was full-on rambling now, voicing all the confusion he'd been feeling about the blue-eyed girl over the past few days.  "She's obviously amazingly talented.  She's overcome incredible challenges, yet seems to take no pride her accomplishments.  In fact, she sometimes acts like she thinks she's being a burden to others.  Her dedication to volleyball is ridiculous.  Who goes through all that just to be able to play a stupid sport again?  And why bother going through all this with us anyway?  If she wants to be back on the court, why doesn't she just finish her therapy and join the girls' team?  What is she getting from all this?"  Tsukishima was almost ranting.

"Well..." Tadashi's voice completely startled Tsukishima, as if he'd forgotten his friend was there, "...maybe she just needs to be with people who understand.  People who get her love for volleyball.  Maybe...she just needs some friends."

Tsukishima stared at Tadashi.  Could that really be it?  he wondered.  Was she...lonely...before she joined us?

Yamaguchi smiled at him.  "Why don't you try asking her sometime, if you're so curious, Tsukki?"

Tsukishima scoffed.  "Go home, Tadashi.  It's been a long couple of days."

So unwilling to admit that maybe you need a friend too, Tadashi thought.  "Goodnight, Tsukki."  He headed off towards home.

"Night, Yamaguchi."

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano lay in bed, half asleep.  She'd finished with her night routine, all that remained was actually climbing under the covers and properly turning in.  But her brain was still pinging after the events of the day.  Her team could be extraordinary, she knew it.  But they still had a long way to go.

Her phone chimed, signaling a message on the Crow VB group chat.  She smiled.  What a chaotic group it was.  She loved diving into the group chat, it was always fun.  She grabbed her phone.

Captain
Hey Nakano, you feeling better?  I'm pretty sure we all want to know.

Killer Queen
Never better, Cap, thanks for asking.  Seriously, it was no big deal.

King
Uh...it kinda was a big deal, you almost collapsed.

Killer Queen
Drama much, Kags?  I was just a little worn out.

Goddess
Well, you did cook breakfast for everyone on your own, then run water and towels for two teams through 8 full sets, then set for two people.

Rolling Thunder
That's our Nakano!  She's such an angel! 👼

Rolling Thunder changed Killer Queen's name to Angel

Shrimp
I think she just went weak in the knees because Kuroo was hitting on her. 😏

Angel
SHOYO! 😊

Rolling Thunder
WHAAAAAT!???

Baldy
WHAAAAAT!!!!?  Who hit on her?  Who do I need to kill?

Angel
Calm down, boys.  Kuroo, Nekoma's captain, tried out a very nerdy pick up line.

Living Salt
Nerdy?  In what way?

Angel
Well, if you must know, he asked me if I was made of copper and tellurium.

Living Salt
Seriously?  OMG that is stupidly nerdy.

Angel
LOL ikr?

Shrimp
What did that mean anyways?

Living Salt
You're such an idiot.

Angel
Hey!  Not everyone is good at chemistry.  The chemical symbols for those two elements are Cu and Te.  Put them together and you get...

Shrimp
CUTE!  That's why he said you were cute!  I get it now!

Baldy
Well, he wasn't wrong.  BUT I'M STILL GONNA KILL HIM!  Stupid city boy!

Angel
Awww, Tanaka, you're adorably extra.  Now stop that.  

Angel changed Baldy's name to City Boy

City Boy
Hey!  I am not a city boy!  I am a proper gentleman.

Sugar
Nakano, I'm glad you're feeling better.  Tanaka, just calm down, okay?  Nakano seems very capable of handling herself.  

Sugar
Hey...why is my name Sugar now?

Angel
'Cause you're so sweet! 😘

Living Salt
Now who's using nerdy pick up lines?

Yams
Awwww!  Nakano and Suga, sitting in a tree...

Angel
YAMS!  STOP THAT!

Yams
...K-I-S-S-I-N-G!

Living Salt
Ugh, what are we, like five?

Yams
Sorry, Tsukki.

Sugar
All right, you guys.  I think that's enough chaos on here for one day.

Captain
Suga's right.  It's been a long training camp, and everybody needs some rest.

Angel
Yes, Cap.  Goodnight you guys!  Thanks for a fun couple of days!

The group chat buzzed with a chorus of goodnights for a minute or two.  Nakano settled more properly in her bed, ready for sleep at last.  Suddenly, her phone made a slightly different sound, the one that indicated she'd gotten a private text from someone.  She checked.

Salty Ass 🧂
You sure you're alright?  You really did a lot today.

What in the hell is going on?  Nakano thought.  That's twice in one day he's been oddly concerned about me.  Good heavens...is this boy a total tsundere?  Who knew?

Queen Setter 🏐
Yes, really, I'm fine.  I'm sorry if I worried you, Tsukki.

Salty Ass 🧂
You didn't.  I just don't want to hear the King whining about you tomorrow.  He's so protective of his Queen.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Well, we've known each other a long time.  Been through a lot.

Salty Ass 🧂
So did you guys date in middle school or something?

Queen Setter 🏐
No, Kags and I have never dated.  Nor am I trying to date Suga, since you seemed to think I was using pick-up lines on him.

No response.  Well, isn't this a strange turn of events, Nakano thought.  Is he bothered by the idea of my dating someone on the team?  Does he think I'll cause problems between the team members?

Salty Ass 🧂
I've been listening to more of Metallica, btw.  Do you know a song called Nothing Else Matters?

Guess we're done with the topic of my love life, she thought.  She chuckled.

Queen Setter 🏐
Yes, it's a really beautiful song.  I wouldn't have thought you'd like such a romantic one of theirs.

Salty Ass 🧂
You think it's a romantic song?

Queen Setter 🏐
Check out the lyrics apart from the song - just read them.  Honestly that song is one of my favorites.  Maybe someday I'll be lucky enough to have someone with whom I can share those words.

Why the hell did I send him that?  Nakano groaned as she looked at the message she just sent Tsukishima.  That's a little more personal than I needed to be with his salty self.  She braced herself for a full-on sarcastic reply.

Salty Ass 🧂
Goodnight, Nakano.

Queen Setter 🏐
Night, Tsukki.

Wow, she thought.  This day could not get any stranger.

Chapter Text

The midday bell sounded at last, prompting most of the students in Class 1-4 to rise from their seats and make their way somewhere more pleasant to enjoy lunch.  Tsukishima and Yamaguchi stood up, intending to go up to the roof to enjoy their food and the pleasantly warm spring breezes.

"Hey Nakano, why don't you join us for lunch today?" Tadashi asked.  "It's really nice out, and we're gonna go up to the roof to eat!"  Tsukishima internally facepalmed.  Doesn't he realize that she might not be able to get up to the roof very well?  There's no elevator going up there, and she'd have to do at least the last 2 flights of stairs on foot.  He knew Nakano could negotiate stairs with her braces on, but she moved rather slowly with them.  She might not feel too comfortable trying to go up there.  He was preparing to talk Tadashi out of going to the roof, when he noticed the girl was already halfway out of the classroom.

"Oh!  Sorry, Yams, but I'm kinda busy for lunch.  Enjoy the sunshine, though!  I'll see ya later!  Bye, Tsukishima!"  Nakano pushed her wheelchair out of the room, keeping a steady but moderate pace up as she walked down the hallway.

"I wonder where she goes for lunchtime every day..." Yamaguchi mused, voicing Tsukishima's inner thoughts.  "Before she joined the team, she always seemed to eat lunch in the classroom.  Now she leaves every day.  I wish she'd join us sometimes."

Tsukishima smirked and looked at his friend.  "Oh really, Tadashi?  Are you pining for the Queen?  You might have to battle the King for her hand."

Yamaguchi scoffed. "It's not like that, Tsukki.  Nakano is my friend.  I like spending time with her, sure, but I'm not pining for her."  No, Tsukki, Tadashi thought, I think that might be you.  Even though I don't think you're ready to admit that, even to yourself.

Since the Golden Week training camp, Yamaguchi had paid attention to Tsukishima's face and body language whenever Nakano was around.  Something was definitely different about his old friend.  He watched the strawberry blonde girl with eager eyes.  And the expression on his face when he did so ranged from total confusion to something that could almost...almost...be classified as tenderness.  Yamaguchi knew he'd never admit it, but he was pretty sure that Tsukki might actually be taking an interest in Nakano beyond friends and teammates.  And he wanted to encourage that.  He'd been Tsukishima's best friend for a long time, and always would be.  But he also wanted to see Tsukki open up more, and let more people into his world.  Nakano was the first person he'd ever seen Tsukki show this much interest in, and he'd made up his mind to encourage that interest as much as he could.

The two boys made it up to the rooftop and set themselves up in a warm and breezy spot.  It was quiet up on the roof, other than the hum of machinery.  But even that sound became only gentle background noise as the boys lounged in the sunshine, enjoying their food.

"See?  This is what I mean.  I think Nakano would like it up here, don't you, Tsukki?"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Tadashi, why do you keep bringing her up?  Are you sure you don't want to ask her out or something?"

"Sorry, Tsukki."

"I mean, it's not that I don't want her to join us or anything...honestly, I really couldn't care less..."  Tsukishima began to ramble a little about how much he didn't care if Nakano joined them for lunch.  Yamaguchi chuckled gently.  A quiet spot where no one can hear you but me, and her name coming up in conversation...and off you go, Tadashi thought.  He'd moved on to wondering about Nakano's internal thought processes again.  By this time, Tsukishima was once again in that headspace where he would almost forget he was talking to someone.  This is the fourth time I've been able to get him rambling about her like this.  I don't care what you say out loud, Tsukki, that girl is stuck in your head.  Tadashi listened patiently as his friend finally began to wind down, now simply thinking to himself.  He let the silence settle for a bit, as he came up with an idea.

"Oh, hey Tsukki?"

"Mmmm?"  

"I almost forgot to tell you...I...uh...won't be able to have lunch with you tomorrow."

"Oh?  Why not?"

"Uh...well...Sensei asked to speak to me tomorrow at the lunch break.  I don't know how long it will take, so please don't wait on me to have lunch, okay?"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "You haven't done something bad without telling me, have you Tadashi?" He smirked at his friend.

Yamaguchi blushed a bit.  He kinda was doing something bad, but in this case he felt the lie was justified.  "N-n-no!  Of course not!  I-I-I don't know why I'm being called in..."

Tsukishima chuckled.  "Probably for some kind of special request or something.  Represent our class in this or that competition.  I'm sure it will be something like that."

Yamaguchi rubbed the back of his neck.  "Yeah, you're probably right Tsukki.  I'm sorry to leave you all alone at lunch though."  Sorry not sorry, actually, thought Tadashi.  Because if I'm reading you right, you're going to follow Nakano and find out what she's doing at lunchtime every day.  

Tsukishima's eyes got a little distant as he considered what he might do during lunch tomorrow.  "Don't worry about it.  One day is no big deal."

Tadashi smiled.  Go get her, Tsukki.

🏐🏐🏐

Since the Golden Week training camp, Kageyama had been texting with Nakano every evening.  Most of the time, they chatted about schoolwork, or what the team had gotten up to that day, or the latest ridiculous thing Hinata had done or said.  So when Nakano's phone dinged a little before 10pm that night, she was not at all surprised.

Milky Boy 🥛
Hey Naka-chan!

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio-chan!  What's up?

Milky Boy 🥛
Not a whole lot.  How about you?

Queen Setter 🏐
Just doing the usual night routine and taking care of my legs.  Hoping to get a bit more sleep tonight than last night!  Morning practice is not fun when I'm sleepy.  😴

Milky Boy 🥛
Oh am I keeping you up?

Queen Setter 🏐
No of course not.  Don't be silly.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Actually, can I ask you something Tobio?

Milky Boy 🥛
Sure.

Queen Setter 🏐
Not that I'm not enjoying our evening chats, but, is everything okay?  You've never really been the chatty type.  But we've literally spent like a solid 30 minutes texting each other every night for the past week or so.  Something up?

No response.  Uh oh, Nakano thought.  Something is up.  I hope everything is okay.  Come on, Tobio-chan, talk to me.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey, you know you can talk to me right?  We're best friends, for crying out loud.  Come on, Tobio, don't shut me out here.

Milky Boy 🥛
I'm not.  I mean, yes.  I mean...wait.

Milky Boy 🥛
Okay, what I meant was yes, something is kinda up. And yes, I want to talk to you.  And no, I'm not gonna shut you out.  Sorry, I couldn't figure out what question to answer first.

Oh my gosh that is so Tobio, Nakano chuckled to herself. 

Queen Setter 🏐
Want me to call?  It'll be easier than typing everything.

No response again.  Maybe he's gonna call me when he's ready?  Come on, Tobio, I'm getting a little worried here, she thought.  What could be so bad?

Milky Boy 🥛
Come over to your window.

What the hell?

Nakano's room was on the first floor of her home.  Her mother had insisted on moving her room downstairs after the accident.  She had a large window with a wide sill that opened out on to her backyard, where her volleyball court was.  She walked over to that window and saw Kageyama leaning against one of the trees in her yard, waving at her.

Holy crap, what the hell is he doing here?

Nakano held up a finger to tell him 'one minute' and yanked on a pair of sweatpants over her sleep shorts.  Putting on her slippers, she turned out the light in her room and quietly slid open the window.  As she prepared to gently slip the short distance down to the ground, she found Tobio had walked over to the window to help her.

"Dude!" she whisper-shouted "What the heck?  What are you doing here at this time of night?  Are you okay?"

"Yeah," Kageyama whispered back as he helped her down to the ground, "I'm sorry for just showing up.  I just really felt like I needed to talk to you."

"Lucky you got here after my mom went to bed."

Kageyama blushed.  "Actually, I've been out here for a while...I waited until her bedroom light went out before telling you to come to the window."

Nakano looked at him incredulously, then started to chuckle.  "So you've been texting me from outside my own window?  Not every night, I hope!"

He glared at her.  "I'm not that much of a weirdo."

"I question that at this particular moment."  They both chuckled.  She led him over to a bench and the two sat down facing one another.  "Alright," she said, "out with it.  What's got you so upset that you came all the way over here on a school night without asking my family...or yours I imagine!  You better hope you don't get in trouble for this!"

He looked down at his hands.  "I know, I took a big chance here.  But...well...something's been bugging me and I needed to say something to you.  And I needed to do it in person...and not with a whole lot of people around."  Okay, Kageyama thought to himself.  Deep breath.  You need to talk about this anyway, and maybe this will help you get a better sense of how you feel about...all this.  Just say it.

Nakano looked at him with concern.  What could be going on in his... A realization suddenly hit her.  Holy crap!  Something to say in person with no one else around?  Is he gonna...con...?

"Nakano I've been a really crappy best friend to you and I'm really sorry!  You were hurt and I didn't know what to say or do and I kinda hid away from you because I just never knew what to say and I should have been there for you and I really suck at this and I'm sorry."  Kageyama paused to gasp for air.

"Hey, woah!  Tobio-chan..."

"Don't tell me it's okay!  It wasn't okay.  You...you're my best friend.  But after your accident, I...well...I wasn't very good at being a friend in the first place.  And after that, I really wasn't good at it, because everything I thought of to try to do or say seemed...not enough.  Or too much.  So..."

"You're not the only one who hid away, Tobio-chan.  I didn't exactly make myself available for any friendships either.  I hid just as much as you, heck...probably way more."

"But I should have been there.  I should have let you know you weren't alone.  Especially after what he..."

"No.  Don't bring him into this now.  Nothing he did was your fault, and what you did was nothing like what he did.  Tobio, you know I wasn't ever mad at you, right?"

"You should have been.  You should be now.  I was a crappy best friend."

"No, you weren't.  Look, it wasn't easy!  Who knows how to deal with that kind of crap at 12 years old?  I sure didn't!  But we did the best we could.  Please Tobio, don't blame yourself for anything.  I know what happened to me hurt you, and I'm so sorry..."

"GAH!  Nakano, do you even hear yourself?  How the hell are you sorry because a damn drunk driver nearly killed you?  How are you not super pissed at me for distancing myself from you because I didn't know how to handle that?  How can you possibly say it didn't hurt you?"  A sob from Nakano brought him up short, and he looked into her blue eyes to see tears running out of them.  "Aw...damn...I..."

"Okay.  It did.  It hurt that you went away.  It hurt that I went away.  But dammit, Tobio, I don't blame you.  And in your case, at least I understand it.  And you didn't go away entirely.  And...honestly...all I want now is for you to be back.  Please.  I don't wanna rehash everything that went wrong in middle school.  I wanna be best friends again."

Kageyama took hold of her shoulders.  "Naka-chan," he looked straight into her tear-filled blue eyes, blushing heavily, "I am so, so very sorry.  Can you please forgive me?"

"Tobio, there's..."

"Please, Naka-chan.  I need to know if you can forgive me.  Not just brush it off like it didn't happen.  But really accept it, forgive it, and move on from it.  Can you do that?  Please?"

Nakano was silent for a moment.  When he'd become distant from her, it had really hurt.  But there was so much drama happening, and not all of it was connected to her accident.  She'd come to understand why he'd kept his distance from her.  But could she really accept that?  Accept it, forgive it, and let it go, like Tobio asked?  His eyes, she thought, his eyes are so full of emotion right now.  She'd never seen Kageyama's eyes look so full.  She saw a lot of fear and pain there, but also a lot of affection.  And hope.  He wasn't the only one to pull away, she thought.  I closed myself in and refused to come out.  We both deserve a second chance at this.

"Of course I can forgive you, Tobio-chan.  You're my best friend," she said as she watched the tears begin to slide out of Kageyama's eyes, "Can you forgive me too?  For pulling away?  For not coming to you when I needed someone?"

Kageyama pulled Nakano into a tight hug.  "Hell yeah I can forgive you.  You're my best friend too, dammit."  Nakano wrapped her arms around him, and they both cried on each other's shoulders.  Kageyama breathed in the scent of her hair.  She smelled like roses.  This...this feels so warm, he thought.  My chest feels warm and full.  I want to feel like this for longer.  I want to hold her, and keep her safe.  Oh man...is this...love?  Am I falling in love with her?

Nakano buried her face in the crook of Kageyama's neck.  She smiled at his familiar scent.  He's so kind, she thought, even if he can't express it well.  He's so...warm.  He makes me feel warm inside.  I wish he could stay here with me...wait what?  What am I...oh man, am I falling for Tobio?

"Um...Nakano, I...oh shit."

Nakano looked into Kageyama's face.  "What?"

"Your mom..."

Nakano looked up to see her mother's bedroom light on again.

"Crap!  GO!  I'll see you at school tomorrow, Tobio!"  The pair jumped up off the bench and started to move.

"Can you get in okay?"

"I got this!  Go home!"  Nakano was already halfway through the window as she saw Tobio hop over the fence around her home and take off at a hard run.

Nakano slipped into bed and waited...but her mom never came in.  She must have gone to the kitchen for a snack, she thought.  Oh man, I hope Tobio gets home okay.  She grabbed her phone.

Queen Setter 🏐
Text me as soon as you are home safe okay?  I'm worried about you!

She knew it might be a bit before he answered.  He lived kinda far away.  She thought back to sitting on the bench, hugging Tobio tightly in the cool night air.  She could feel the echo of the warm, soft feeling she'd had while holding him.  What does it mean?  Could I really be falling in love with Kageyama Tobio, after all these years?  How is that possible?  Do I even want a boyfriend now?  Heaven knows the last time I had a 'boyfriend' - that was a complete disaster.  But Tobio...Tobio would never be like that...

Nakano lay on her bed, her thoughts a tangled mess.  When her phone finally sounded, she squeaked in alarm.

Milky Boy 🥛
Home safe and in my room without getting caught.  Sorry for all the drama.  But that had really been weighing on my mind.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Man, I am so glad you are okay.  And I'm glad we talked.  I never stopped thinking of you as my best friend, you know.  🤗

Milky Boy 🥛
Good.  I will always be your best friend, Naka-chan.  Goodnight, and sleep well.  🤗

Queen Setter 🏐
YOU JUST SENT ME A HUG EMOJI!!  

Milky Boy 🥛
OMG Nakano go to bed.

Queen Setter 🏐
I am in bed.  Hug me again.

Milky Boy 🥛
🤗

Queen Setter 🏐
😊 Goodnight Tobio-chan!

Milky Boy 🥛
Night, Nakano.

Kageyama smiled at his phone.  She wanted another hug, he thought.  I wonder if she wanted another real one.  I...want to give her another one.  Does that mean I'm in love with her?  He wasn't quite sure what to think about it all.  But one thing he did know.  I don't want to toy with her, he told himself.  She doesn't deserve that, not after what happened in middle school.  I need to figure this out.  But how?  Kageyama fell asleep wondering how to figure out his feelings.

🏐🏐🏐

When the midday bell rang the next day, Tadashi fairly bolted out of the classroom.  "See you Tsukki!  Bye Nakano!" he called out as he disappeared out the door and almost ran down to Class 1-1.  Ducking inside the door, he peeked out to see Nakano headed down the hall at her usual pace.  Come on, Tsukki, he thought, follow her.  Don't just let this chance slip by.  Just as Nakano was reaching the end of the corridor, Tsukki slipped out of Class 1-4 in time to see which way she went.  He moved quickly down the hall.  Tadashi silently cheered.

"Yamaguchi?  What are you doing?"  Tadashi jumped at the sound of Hinata's voice.

"Oh, h-hey, Hinata.  Wanna have lunch together?"

Tsukishima had battled with himself for several minutes.  It really wasn't any of his business where the girl went every day.  But it didn't make sense.  All that time chatting up Yamaguchi trying to make friends, he thought, and now that they are friends and teammates, she runs off every lunch hour.  Why?  He needed to find out.  So he slipped on his headphones and casually walked out the door, just in time to see her turn the corner at the far end of the hall.

Tsukishima followed her discreetly, keeping as far back as he could while still keeping her in sight.  He recognized the route she was taking.  Unless she made a turn soon, she'd end up at the gym where the team practiced every day.  Sure enough, he hung back and watched her enter their gym.  After all this, is she just like working on club activities or something?  Getting water bottles prepared for the afternoon?  How boring.  He almost turned to head back to the classroom, but something told him to go on.  Something about the whole thing wasn't right.  He walked over and slipped into the gym.  

It was semi-dark, the only light coming in from the windows.  He paused for a moment and let his eyes adjust.  Looking around, he saw no sign of Nakano anywhere.  Where could she have gone?  I don't think she spotted me.  So whatever she's up to, she's in here somewhere.  It took him a moment to realize there was a slim line of light under the door to the equipment room.  He moved quietly closer.  He could hear...grunting?  What the hell is she doing?  Is she in there with...  His hand paused at the door, not sure if he wanted the answer to his half-formed question.  But his curiosity got the better of him and he yanked the door open.

Nakano was lying on a mat on the floor...wearing short shorts...with some kind of weight draped over her legs.  She was doing leg lifts.  

"WOAH!" She yanked out her earbuds and grabbed her jacket and threw it over her legs.  "What the hell, Tsukki?"

Tsukishima came all the way into the room and shut the door.  "Is this what you do every day at lunch?  You come in here and work out?"

Nakano looked mildly embarrassed as color began to rise in her cheeks.  "Well, yeah.  Why not?" 

He looked around and spotted her untouched bento on the floor of the room.  "Don't you eat?"

She followed his gaze. "Yeah...most days.  I've got plenty of time to get in some good work on my legs and still grab at least a little something."

Tsukishima glared at her.  "Does your doctor know you do this?"

"What the hell is this, the inquisition?  I've told you guys, I take care of myself and I..."

"Answer the question.  Does your doctor know?"

"Look, he knows I'm doing volleyball..."

"ANSWER ME!  Don't make me ask again."  Nakano paled under his now angry gaze.  

"No, he doesn't know that I specifically do these leg exercises every day at lunch."

"Then you're not doing them anymore."

"WHAT?  Who put you in charge of my therapy?  These are exercises I am supposed to do..."

He yanked the jacket off her legs and lifted the weight.  "..with, what, an added 25 pounds or so on your legs?"

"HEY!" Nakano screamed and scrambled to cover her legs again.  "WHO THE HELL DO YOU THINK YOU ARE!"

"You've got two choices.  Quit doing this and have lunch with me and Yamaguchi every day or I'm texting Daichi right now."

Nakano stared at him, completely confused.  "What the actual fuck is happening right now, Tsukishima?  Why are you so damned upset?!  What difference does it make to you if I do some extra workouts to up my stamina so I can be more helpful to you guys?"

Tsukishima stared at her.  Why did he care?  What business was it of his?  What the hell was he even doing here?  He sighed heavily and sat down on the floor.

"Look, this all started because Yamaguchi wondered where you went every day.  He really wants you to join us for lunch.  I guess...when I saw you doing exercises and not eating...I thought you were overdoing it."

"Like when you worried I didn't eat at the training camp."

"Yeah, I guess so."

Yep.  Total tsundere, she thought.  How do I get out of this one?  He's not wrong, I'm kinda pushing it, and that's why I've been so tired lately.  Maybe...I can make a deal.

Tsukishima got up and grabbed Nakano's bento, and took his out of his jacket.  

"Eat," he said, handing her her food.

"Look, Tsukki..."

"Why do you do this?" Nakano looked at him as the question seemed to be torn from Tsukishima's throat.  "I don't understand.  You push yourself to your limit and beyond - for what?  For a game?  For a sport you may never play again?  To help a bunch of boys you've known only a couple weeks?  Why the hell would you even do that?"  His eyes were lit from within by emotions she couldn't fully read.

She looked away.  "Because I'm a selfish bitch."

Tsukishima's mouth hung open.  

"Everything I've done, I've done for me.  Because I want to be on the court again.  Whatever the cost.  Yes, I've pushed myself.  And I've hurt people, and for that, I am truly sorry.  But the passion I feel for the game drives me.  I want to be on that court.  And I will be.  At the end of all this, I want to be able to say that this is what I did for love."

"I...I don't understand."  He looked in her eyes and saw the fire there again, her eyes shining like sapphires catching the sunlight.  I want that, he thought.

"You will. "

"What?"

"We're not so different, Tsukishima.  I know you've got passion in you.  You're just afraid to let it guide you, you're afraid to let others see it.  You're afraid of what it might do.  But one day, it'll break out, and you won't have a choice.  You'll do things you never thought you could or would do in a million years.  Then you'll know.  And I hope I'll be there to see it, because it's going to be amazing when it happens."

Tsukishima just stared at her.  How did she do that?

"Come on, let's eat."  She opened her bento.

They ate in silence for several minutes.  He looked at her jacket.  "Why do you hide them?"

"They aren't worth looking at."

"You wear a skirt every day.  I've seen your legs before."

"You've seen my braces.  You haven't really seen my legs.  Trust me.  No one looks at my legs when the braces are on."

"Scars?"

"Yeah."

"So what?  You've..."

"Please.  Do not tell me I should be proud of the scars that show how much I've overcome.  Someday, I'll have no choice but to show them.  Maybe I'll be ready by then.  Maybe not.  Maybe, I'll only show them to people I feel like I can truly trust."

"You're not a selfish bitch."

Nakano gave out a joyless laugh.  "So sure of that, are you?"

"Yep.  I've never seen you at the club meetings."

It took Nakano a beat to process that one, and when she did, she looked up to see Tsukishima smirking at her.  She laughed again, genuinely this time.  "That...that was a very, very good one."  She offered him her hand.  "I salute you, sir."

He took her hand, flipped it, and kissed the back of it, smirking at her the whole time.  "You like that kind of thing, don't you?"

She rolled her eyes.  "If you try some kind of corny science pick up line, I will smack you."

He released her hand.  "Just eat."

They finished their bentos in silence.  When he'd packed his up, Tsukishima spoke again.  "So, about my ultimatum..."

"Oh?  Is that still a thing?"

"Yes.  Your choices remain the same.  Lunch every day with Tadashi and I, or I call Daichi right now."

"May I make a counteroffer?"

"I'll entertain it."

"Lunch two days a week with you and Yams, and the other three I come here for my work out."

"Too much.  You can do the work out two days a week..."

"Deal."

"...BUT, only if Tadashi and I come with you to ensure you actually eat all of your lunch."

"Three people in here?  There won't be enough room for me to work out!  Plus...uh..."

"You're going to have to trust somebody to see your legs some time.  Why not Tadashi and I?"

Her face turned redder than he'd ever seen it.  He knew she simply wasn't going to be able to go along with that, and he didn't really want to make her uncomfortable.  "Tsukki...I..."

"I'll withdraw that last.  I didn't mean to push too hard.  How about you eat with us and then go do your work out.  Will that do?  Or we can eat outside in the yard here by the gym with you, when the weather's nice."

She laughed.  "That's sounds great."

"Then we have a deal?"  He offered her his hand.

"We have a deal."  She grabbed his hand, flipped it, and kissed the back of it.  It was his turn to become redder than she'd ever seen him.  She laughed.

"I cannot believe you did that!"

"Turnabout is fair play, my good sir," said Nakano, still laughing.

🏐🏐🏐

Kageyama had to wait, and it was killing him.  Now that he knew what he wanted to do, having to wait to do it was just plain damn frustrating.  But he wanted to talk to his senpais alone, and the best way to do that was after practice.

He made it through a long day of classes.  He made it through practice, telling Hinata early on that he wouldn't be able to walk with him afterwards and that he should just leave when he was ready.  He watched his upperclassmen weep as Kiyoko showed off the team banner and give them words of encouragement.  I don't get why they are crying, he thought, but if it slows them down a little and lets the other first years leave before they do, then I owe Kiyoko one.  For once, he was even thankful that Tsukishima wanted to walk Nakano home early, as she did seem tired.  And that led to him finally being alone with his senpais in the club room.  

He approached Suga, thinking the kind-hearted young man was his best bet for a meaningful answer to his question.  "Uh, excuse me, senpai?"

"What's up, Kageyama?  You okay?" Suga asked, wiping his eyes again.  He was still feeling pretty emotional after Kiyoko's amazing gift to the team.

"Can I ask you something?  I need some advice."

"Giving advice is what your senpais are here for, my man," Tanaka chimed in, coming over to stand next to Suga.  "Now, what's on your mind, bro?"

"How...how do you know if you like someone?  Like, as in wanting to date them."  Kageyama looked directly at Suga, trying to ignore Tanaka.

Noya popped up immediately with a grin, "Ah...you got a girl in your sights, Kageyama?  Who's the lucky lady?  Anyone we know?" Noya wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

"I...I would rather not say, as I don't know if I'm going to ask her out or not."  Kageyama continued to focus on Suga, really hoping Noya and Tanaka would go somewhere else.  Maybe I should have waited until they were gone, he thought.

"Does she make your heart flutter in your chest? Do you feel weak in the knees when she's around?  Does the mere mention of her name make you wanna run around in circles until you're about to puke because you're filled with so much nervous energy?" Noya flailed around dramatically, trying to demonstrate these torrid emotions while not body slamming everyone else in the room.

"Uh..." Kageyama's eyes were now pleading with Suga, who stood there smiling.  What Noya describes sounds more like a disease than love, he thought, or maybe...Hinata on most days, especially the running around and puking part.

Tanaka paused in the process of changing his shirt.  "Who cares how she makes you feel?  If you're asking the question, there's something happening!  Give it a shot and see how she feels!  Maybe it'll be true love, or maybe it'll just be a summer crush.  But whatever it is - go for it, my man!"  Tanaka looked like he might cry again. "I can't believe my kohai is already coming to me for love advice.  I'm so proud!"

Kageyama rolled his eyes and adjusted his bag on his back.  Maybe this wasn't such a great idea after all.

Sugawara chuckled.  "Tanaka does have a point, Kageyama," he said, smiling at his fellow setter and clapping him on the shoulder.  "If you've got an interest in this girl, maybe you should just ask her out and see what happens."

"Well...I'm not sure I can do that, Suga-senpai.  See, I don't want to mislead her, if what I'm feeling isn't really...I mean...I know she's been hurt before, and I don't want to hurt her again," Kageyama was grateful that Tanaka and Noya were now caught up in dramatic roleplay about summer romances and bothering the heck out of the other second-years so he could just talk to Suga.  "I was hoping I could figure out my feelings before I asked her out, if that's what I decide to do."

Suga looked at him kindly.  "That's really very thoughtful of you, to be so concerned about her feelings.  But I'll be honest, Kageyama, I'm not sure you'll be able to figure all this out unless you interact with her."

"He's right, you know," Daichi joined in, "maybe what you feel now will grow into something more if you share those feelings with her.  But opening yourself up to this kind of thing always comes with some risk.  For both you and her."

"So you're saying there's no way I can figure out what I'm feeling without possibly hurting her in the process?" Kageyama didn't like the sound of that.

"Trust yourself, Kageyama.  And her.  Talk to her.  See how she feels too.  Maybe the two of you can figure it out together.  But whatever you decide to do, always be true to yourself.  If you do that, no matter what happens, you'll know you did the best you could."  Suga gave him another sweet smile.  "I'm sorry if that wasn't as helpful as you hoped it would be."

"No, that was helpful, thank you, sen..."

Tanaka suddenly flung himself on Kageyama's back, making kissy faces and batting pretend long eyelashes.  "Or you could just kiss me and see if fireworks go off in your head!" he trilled in an overly girly voice.

"And I'm really sorry you have to deal with him," Suga said as he and Daichi headed out of the club room.

Chapter Text

It's been a couple of days since I talked to Sugawara about how I was feeling.  I've decided I'm going to try to talk to Nakano today after practice.  It's Friday, so if we need lots of time to talk, or maybe if we decide that we want to date we can go out tonight?  I don't know.  I'm gonna talk to her, and I'm gonna do it today.

I guess Suga was right.  I can't do this without risking hurting her.  And maybe me.  I just got my best friend back, I'd really hate to lose her again.  But spending all my time wondering about the feeling I get every time I think about hugging her or whatever is driving me nuts.  It's starting to distract me during practice.  I think maybe Nakano is feeling something too.  I've noticed her looking at me during games, more than she did before.  We also do our best friend hug a lot more.  The four eyed jerkwad comments on it. Every. Single. Time.  Jackass.

Speaking of four eyes, I told him I'd be taking Nakano home after practice today.  He started in on his King and Queen shit again and I tuned him out and walked away.  I don't know how she manages to talk to him, but she does.  She just teased him right back about being jealous.  Looks like she got him pretty good too, he got all flustered.  Even Yamaguchi laughed at him.  He'd better not like her or something!  I'd have to kill him.  She's way too good for him.  Hell, she's way too good for me.  But, I've gotta know.  I've gotta know what these feelings mean.

I think...I might have to take some of Tanaka-san's advice too.  Well, it wasn't really advice.  He was just being an idiot.  But he might be right.  I always hear people talk about the whole fireworks-when-I-kissed-her thing.  Maybe, if I kiss Nakano, then I'll know.  If she'll let me.  I'm not gonna just grab her lips or something crazy.  That's the kind of shit he would pull, and I am not gonna do her like that.  

Okay, I'm kinda getting nervous.  But it's not even lunchtime yet.  I gotta make it through the whole day, and all of practice.  Somehow.

Classes were awful.  I couldn't focus on anything.  Now it's time to practice, I'm hoping that will go better.  Of course, Nakano will be there, but since I know I'm going to talk her afterwards, I'm hoping I can keep my mind clear.  

Okay, practice was good.  I feel good.  My stomach and head both feel really calm.  I think I'm ready for this.  Nakano has gone to change, I asked her to meet back here in the gym.  The only other person left around is Shittyshima, of course.  I refuse to let him piss me off.  

"Oi, Your Majesty!  Don't forget you're walking Nakano home."  He yells at me from the door.

"I'm the one who told you that, jerkwad.  I haven't forgotten.  Now go away."

"Oh, of course Your Majesty.  Far be it from me to interrupt your royal love affair."  I can hear Yamaguchi laughing as they walk away.  As long as they go, I don't care what they say.  But I swear, if Nakano and I do start dating, the first thing I'm going to do at the next practice is kiss her right in front of that jackass.  Maybe then he'll shut up.  Just to be sure, I wait a few moments, then check around outside the gym.  That bastard would be the type to hang around to find out what was going on.  But I don't see him or Yamaguchi anywhere.  Good.  I sit back down on the bench to wait for Nakano.

She comes in, moving kinda slowly.  I know the braces slow her down.  I stand up to go help her.

"Sit down, Tobio-chan.  I got this."

I can't help but smile a little.  She ought to have 'I got this' on a tee shirt.  I sit back down, and after a few moments she sits next to me.

"Okay, what's up?"

"Does something have to be up?  Maybe I just want to walk you home today."

She gives me a look that screams 'you are so full of it'.  I can feel a little heat rising in my cheeks.  "Okay, yeah, something's up."

She chuckles.  Oh man, now that I'm here...I don't know how to start.

"Tobio, just start okay?  Whatever it is, we'll figure it out."

She's really good at that.  She always seems to know what you're thinking.  I think she uses that on the court too.  It's like she can read your mind by looking in your face.  I take a deep breath.  "Nakano, remember the other night when I came by your house?"

"Well of course!  That was some evening...I was so sure you were gonna get caught trying to get back in your house."  She smiles and laughs.

"When we...hugged...did you...um...feel...anything?"

Her face changes, becoming more serious, and almost...shy.  "Well, sure.  I was really glad we talked.  I missed having you around, Tobio.  I missed being close with you.  So...I felt really glad that..."

"No.  I mean...did you feel...something...like...in your chest?"

"Did you?"

"I...yeah.  I felt...warm.  And my chest felt...full...somehow.  Did...did you feel that too?" The question kind of fell out of my mouth finally.  Her eyes are wide open.  I don't think I've ever seen her eyes look this big.

"Yeah.  Yeah, I felt that too."

Holy shit.  She felt it too?  But I'm still not sure what it is.  Another deep breath.  And now I'm just gonna say it.

"Nakano, I don't know for sure, but maybe that feeling was love, and if you felt it too, then maybe we both feel the same thing and we can keep sharing that feeling because I really liked it and I want to keep feeling it.  But if it isn't, or you don't, then I really don't want to hurt you because I know you've been hurt before and I'm your best friend and I always will be and I don't want to mess that up again."  Okay, that came out as a total word vomit.  I'm an idiot.  Wait, she's smiling at me?

"Take a deep breath, Tobio-chan."  I follow her advice.  "I've...kinda been wondering the same thing, after that night.  I gotta say, I'm not sure I'm ready for another boyfriend experience...but I also know you'd never hurt me on purpose.  So...should we try?"

"Um...try what?"  Has she been thinking what I've been thinking?

"I don't know...going out on a date maybe?  Should we try being a couple?"

I close my eyes and breathe deeply again.  I am going to try REALLY hard not to word vomit this one. "Nakano...if you'll let me...I'd like to try to...uh..."  I can't say it.  She's looking at me.  I look down and see her hands in her lap.  I take another deep breath and I take her hand at the same time.  Okay, eyes up, say the words.

"I'd like to give you a kiss."

Oh hell, my face is hot.  Like really hot.  The only thing saving me at the moment is that her cheeks are bright pink too, so at least I'm not alone.  She's got this little smile on her face...wait, she's nodding.  She just squeezed my hand!   I reach up with my other hand and cup her cheek.  She really is so very pretty.  I lean a little closer, looking at her bright blue eyes.  Her eyes have always been the most amazing thing about her face.

"So kiss me, Tobio."

I don't want to smash her lips or bump noses or something stupid like that.  Deep, slow breath.  Move forward, close my eyes, don't think, just feel...

Her lips are soft.

I don't think we will ever figure out which one of us started it.  But one of us must have.  Either way, after a few moments, we were both beginning to giggle against each others lips.  Pretty soon, our hands moved to each other's shoulders, and we were laughing right out loud, our foreheads pressed up against each other.  

"Oh...oh Tobio," Nakano was trying to talk between gasps for air and laughter, "Oh my goodness...oh Tobio...I'm...I'm sorry..."

I took a deep breath to stop laughing.  "That was like...kissing my sister!"

Nakano lost it.  She laughed so hard, she got me laughing all over again.  We collapsed against each other, hugging sloppily.  We almost fell over, but caught ourselves.  We laughed so hard we both had tears coming down our cheeks.  I feel that full, warm feeling in my chest again, but this time, I know what it is.

"Well, I guess we got our answer, didn't we?" Nakano laughs and wipes her eyes.

"Yep," I wipe mine too.  "It was love after all."

She looks at me a little confused.  "Not the I-wanna-date-you kind," I pull her back into a warm hug, "the you're-like-my-twin-sister kind.  I do love you, Naka-chan.  Now I know why my chest feels warm and full when I hug you."  All the awkwardness is gone.  I can look in her eyes and say anything now.  "When we drifted apart in middle school, there was a hole in my heart.  I didn't even know that space was empty until you came back and filled it again.  I'm glad you're back."

"Me too."  Tears are still falling from her eyes.  Oh crap, did I get this wrong after all?

"Naka-chan, why are you..." I wipe her tears with my fingers.  She laughs...okay, maybe we're okay?  I'm getting confused again.  

"I'm sorry Tobio, I don't mean to confuse you.  I'm not sad.  I'm happy.  And really touched.  And kinda amazed that you can be so sensitive."

"Hey!  I'm a nice guy!" Did she just insult me?  Woah, now she's hugging me again.  Still feels good.

"I'm so very glad we're best friends, Tobio-chan." She chuckles in my ear.  "This also explains your reaction to Kuroo-san's attempts at flirting..."

"As your only brother, it is my job to protect you from assholes like that."

"Dude, are you really planning to take this twin idea that seriously?"

"I know what I feel, Naka-chan."

Uh-oh, I also know that look.  "You do realize that makes me the older twin?"  She said what now?

"How is that true?"

"I was born first!"

"We're not really brother and sister!  So I get to be the older brother if I say so!"

"That is not how this works, Tobio-chan..."  

Woah, I just thought of something.  I pull Nakano back into another hug.

"Well, whatever else happens to us, I just realized something that makes me kinda happy."

"What, Tobio?"

"I get to say that you were my first kiss."

"Awww...Tobio..." Oh man, not again.  I think she's crying on my shoulder a little.  

"I wish you had been mine."  I pat her back and stroke her hair a little.  I know that makes her sad, but I wanted her to know how much this means to me.  We sit a little while, until her tears stop.  I get the feeling she doesn't want to talk about all that right now.  We've already been through a lot of feelings today.  When she finally looks up, her eyes are dry and she's smiling.

"Come on, let's go to my house.  Wanna stay for dinner?"

"What's your mom making?"

"Pork curry."  She knows I won't say no to that.  "I'll have her put an egg on top."

"Let's go, little sis."  OW, she kicked me.  Yup, just like brother and sister.

Chapter Text

"Tobio-chan, it's so nice to see you again.  Thank you for making sure Naka-chan got home safely."

"I'm happy to do it, Ogawa-san.  Nakano is a like a sister to me."  Kageyama smiled at Nakano.  The pair were seated at the dinner table, both working on their second helping of pork curry.  Nakano stuck her tongue out at Kageyama, and he snorted at her.

"Nakano!" Her mother laughed.  "Goodness, you two are like brother and sister." She got up and began to clean up from the evening meal.

"Thank you so much for having me to dinner," Kageyama said around a mouthful of food.

"Dude, that's so gross," Nakano said, her own mouth pretty full.  Her mother just laughed again.  "Wanna play some video games after this?"

"Sure.  I've been dying to kick your butt at MarioKart again."

"You're on."

Two hours later, Kageyama had indeed established himself as the undisputed MarioKart champion, at least between the two of them.  Nakano was about to challenge him one more time when both of their phones went off simultaneously.

"Group chat!"  they both said, opening the app.

Dad
Hey guys.  Coach Ukai asked me to pass along that we're moving up the start of practice tomorrow.  Be at the gym no later than 10am.  Interhighs are in a week so we're going to really be working it.  Respond so I know you know.

Pretty Setter
Got it!

NOT Baldy
Got it!

King
I'll be there.

Queen
10am

Pretty Setter
Who changed my name this time?  

The group chat continued to ping with everyone checking in.  Kageyama checked the time.  "Oh man, it's already 10pm.  I'd better get going.  I've got a long walk home, and then I need to get some sleep if I'm going to get to the gym at 10am tomorrow and actually be good for anything."

"You wanna stay here?  I'm sure my mom would let you.  Amalie's at college, so you could use her room."

"You sure that would be okay?"

"Why not?"  Nakano opened her door and yelled for her mom. 

Forty minutes later, Kageyama was all settled in.  Nakano sat next to him on her sister's bed.  Amalie's room was much girlier than Nakano's, in shades of pink and purple, with posters of popular boy bands still lining the walls of the room as they did when Amalie was attending Karasuno.  Random stuffed animals were littered around the room as well.  The only piece of furniture completely cleaned out was Amalie's makeup table.  Nakano chuckled.

"You gonna be okay sleeping in the girl cave?"  she asked Kageyama.

Kageyama looked around.  "You and Amalie are pretty different."  He thought about Nakano's room, done in shades of blue and decorated with volleyball items and weights.  Her one 'girly' thing was her huge collection of stuffed pandas.  They covered one whole wall of her room, with the largest ones being down on the floor.  "I can't imagine you ever having boys plastered all over your walls, or setting yourself up a makeup table."

"Yeah, I've never really been the girly girl type.  I can't see the point of spending time putting makeup on when it's not gonna help.  Plus it'll just come off when I work out anyway."

"What do you mean, 'not gonna help'?"

"Makeup is supposed to make you look all beautiful and whatever, right?  Well, given the state of things, I don't think it will do any good.  No one's gonna look at my face when the braces are in front of them."

"What are you talking about?  Everyone looks at your face.  You're really pretty, Nakano.  Why do you think I worry about creeps like that guy Kuroo?"

"He wasn't so bad.  Just cheesy.  Besides, I bet he does that to every girl he sees.  I'm sure it had nothing to do with me."

Kageyama was getting a little upset.  What the hell, he thought, she's so good looking.  Why doesn't she know that?  "Hey, quit that.  The only reason I can't see you bothering with a makeup table is that you don't need one.  You're already beautiful.  So quit being down on yourself.  Did you see that Kuroo guy trying pick up lines on Kiyoko?  He went after you."

Nakano laughed.  "Noya and Tanaka would've killed him."

"Quit changing the subject.  You do know you're pretty, right?"

Nakano laughed again and hugged him.  "Get some sleep, Tobio."

He broke the hug and held her at arms length.  "Nope, not until you stop this.  Naka-chan, I worry about what's gonna happen when you finally decide to let yourself think about boyfriends again.  Because you're gonna have all kinds of guys lining up to try to date you.  And as your only brother, I'm going to be working overtime checking them all out, and making sure they are worthy of you.  Because I'm sure as hell not gonna let any of them hurt you."

"Tobio...are you serious about this?"  She searched his face and it did not seem like he was teasing.  He looked genuinely concerned.

"You're damn right I am.  I bet any one of the guys on the team would date you in a heartbeat, if you showed any interest in them.  I would have.  You're really beautiful, inside and out."  I've never been able to say these things to her before.  But she really needs to hear them.  I'm glad we worked everything out today, he thought.  I hope she believes me.

Nakano blushed a deep red.  She couldn't believe what Kageyama was saying.  Beautiful?  She grimaced internally.  He doesn't see what I really am.  How selfish I've been.  How much I've hurt the people around me.  I know he means well, she thought, but he doesn't know what's really happened in the past three years.  If he knew, he'd never call me beautiful.

"I don't know what to say, Tobio," she said, looking down at her hands in her lap.

"You don't believe me, do you?"  She didn't look up.  "It's okay," he said, hugging her again.  "I get it.  It's probably gonna take some time.  Well, we've got all the time you want.  I'm your best friend, and I'm never leaving you again.  So, little sis, we can keep having this conversation as often as you need it, until you believe me."  She chuckled as he called her 'little sis' again.

"I love you, big brother."

"Finally accepted the truth of it, hunh?"

"It's only fair for me to let you win sometimes."  He could hear the smirk on her face.  He pushed her over.

"Hey!  Who won every game of MarioKart today?"

🏐🏐🏐

Kageyama and Nakano continued to 'discuss' whether or not Nakano had let him win at MarioKart last night as they approached the volleyball gym at Karasuno.

"Face it, Tobio, you can't prove I didn't deliberately throw every game we played last night."

"You face it, Naka-chan, I know you are too competitive to do that for Two. Straight. Hours.  I beat you.  So just accept it."

"Accept what?"

"Accept that I am better than you."

She gave a him a look that made him shudder.  "A-at MarioKart," he hastily added.  She laughed and tossed an arm around his shoulders, carefully controlling her wheelchair with the other.  "And that," she said smiling, "is the only reason I'll let you have the honor of being the big brother."  He gently elbowed her off him and laughed.

Suddenly an orange blur came barreling past them.  "Noooottt ggoooonnnaaaa loooooosssse!" it shouted, the words seemingly stretched out from the Doppler effect of it speeding by.  Kageyama took off like a shot. "DUMBASS!!" he shouted as he sped after Hinata.  Nakano just laughed and shook her head.

"Ugh, I swear, they share one brain cell between them," came a familiar salty voice.  Nakano turned to see Tsukishima and Yamaguchi walking up behind her.

"Good morning, Yams, Tsukki!"  She called.

"Morning, Nakano!"  Yams replied with a wave.  Tsukishima just nodded.  Looks like she walked here with the King, he thought.  He furrowed his brow.  He lives on the other side of town from her...was that what yesterday was all about?  Did Kageyama make a move on her?  Are they dating now for real?  I'm pretty sure I saw her with her arm around his shoulders...maybe she just needed support?  But she's got her wheelchair, why would she...

"Everything okay, Tsukishima?"  Nakano asked.  He was startled to discover her walking next to him.  "You look a little...upset."

"What?  No.  Ugh, just exhausted already watching the King and the Shrimp acting like such total morons.  We've been called in for an extra long practice and they start off by wasting all their energy trying to be first to smack into the gym doors."

Nakano laughed as she spotted the two boys lying on the ground in front of the gym.  She stopped and stood over them, looking at their upside down faces as they both gasped for air.  "So...who won?" she asked.

"Tie," Kageyama breathed out, trying to calm his heart rate.  Shoyo looked like a fish out of water, sucking in as much air as he could with each breath.  Nakano laughed again.

"Oh my gosh, you are such idiots," Tsukishima said with a smirk.  Both boys sat up and glared at him.  

"Yes," Nakano said, ruffling both boys' hair with her hands, "but they are both adorable idiots." She walked up to the gym doors to unlock them as Noya and Tanaka arrived and beamed at the two first years sitting on the ground.

"The angel called you both adorable!  You've been blessed!" Nishinoya sang out.

"That's almost as amazing as being hit by Kiyoko!" Tanaka gushed.

Tsukishima stepped around the four and sighed.  "And our senpais are apparently also using that same brain cell..."  Yamaguchi just chuckled and followed the blonde into the gym.

🏐🏐🏐

It was a long, hard day of practice.  Coach Ukai kindly provided lunch for the team, but he made them work for it.  When he finally dismissed them after outlining the plans for the remaining week of training before the Interhigh Prelims, everyone was thoroughly exhausted, including Nakano and Kiyoko.  The boys all stayed in the gym to help clean up, however, as they could see both of their managers were pretty wiped out.

"So I suppose the King will be walking you home again today," Tsukishima said as Nakano walked past him, pushing the ball basket.  She looked at him quizzically.  "No," she said, "he lives the other way.  Besides, it's still light out, so it doesn't really matter anyway.  Why?  Are you and Yams not walking home today?"

A brief look of surprise crossed Tsukishima's face before he settled his features back to their usual bored look.  "No, I'll walk you home.  I just didn't want to have to walk with the King.  I don't have the energy to deal with his stupidity right now."

Nakano rolled her eyes.  "Well, you don't need to.  In fact, if you'd prefer to avoid my stupidity as well, I can leave you in peace today."

He clicked his tongue in annoyance.  "I said I'd walk you home."

"As you wish, m'lord..." she dropped him a mock curtsy when her legs wavered and she began to fall.  Tsukishima caught her quickly and steadied her.  

"Definitely walking you all the way to your door again.  What have I said about you overdoing it?"

She colored slightly.  "It was a long practice.  It was fun setting for you guys, though!"  Ukai had asked Nakano to run a spiking drill while he and Kiyoko prepared lunch. 

He rolled his eyes.  "Let's go get changed."

"Right," she replied.

Twenty minutes later, the team headed out from Karasuno.  In pairs or singles, they each peeled off, headed for their own homes, calling out goodbyes.  Finally, Tsukishima and Nakano waved goodbye to Yamaguchi and headed towards their own neighborhood.  It was a pleasant early evening, with the Sun headed down towards sunset.  The pair walked slowly, both rather exhausted.

"Are you sure you should be walking at this point?" the blonde asked.

Nakano smiled at him.  "I got this."

He rolled his eyes.  "You say that all the time, even when you clearly don't 'got this.'  Why don't you let me push you for awhile."

She turned away, facing forward.  "Because if I don't keep it up, I'll never get better.  I'm hoping to go on a run with you guys later this week.  If I can't handle walking home from practice, I certainly won't be able to convince Daichi to let me run with you."

What's so great about going for a run with us, he thought.  Why do you do this to yourself?  Tsukishima looked at the strawberry blonde girl in confusion.  It's only going to hurt you in the end.  And...I think maybe you've been hurt enough.  Dammit, what the hell is wrong with me?  Why do I care if she chooses to do stuff that is just gonna bring her more pain?  It's her damn choice.  His features became hard.  I should just quit worrying about it.  I'm going to stop at my own street and not even bother about getting her to her home.  She's right, it's daylight, and she's made it clear that she can handle it all herself just fine...

"Thanks for walking me home again, Tsukishima."  He looked up in surprise.  They were standing in front of Nakano's gate.  She chuckled.  "Guess we both kind of zoned out there, huh?"  

"Yeah," he said softly.  Nakano looked at his face.  He looks worn out, she thought.  "Hey, you got a couple minutes?" she asked.

"Uh...sure?"  He sounded kind of dazed.

She opened the gate and pointed down a small garden pathway.  "Follow that around to the back, you'll see a couple benches.  Have a seat and I'll come join you in a minute."

"Why?"

She smiled at him.  "You look kinda tired.  You went out of your way to walk me here, so the least I can do is offer you a chance to rest a couple minutes before you finish your walk.  Besides, the sunset is pretty, and our backyard faces that way.  It's nice out here, so let's enjoy it."  She opened her door.  "You like strawberry soda?"

"Yeah, sure."

"I'll bring a couple out then.  Go sit."

He walked along the path she'd indicated.  I spent that whole time irritated with myself and with her, he thought, because I don't understand her.  And she responds by worrying about the fact that I look a little tired.  And she thinks she's a selfish bitch?  He sat down on a bench and looked at the sunset-colored sky.  I don't think she knows what those words mean.  He sighed softly, watching the gently changing pinks, purples and oranges among the clouds.  And she's with Kageyama now?  I just really can't understand how that's possible.

"Here ya go," Nakano handed him a strawberry soda as she sat down on the bench beside him.  

"Thanks," he said, sipping on the drink.  It tasted good.  He looked around the yard a little.  "Is that a volleyball court over there?"

She laughed.  "Yep, my own personal training zone.  My dad had it put in for me when I started physical therapy."

"No wonder your volleyball skills are still so great."

She looked at him.  "Thanks, Tsukki."

"I guess you and Kageyama must use that court all the time."

"Kags?  Nope, he's never even been on that court."

"Really?  Well, I guess that will be changing in the future, right?"

She looked him full in the face.  "Tsukishima, what are you talking about?"

"Aren't you and the King finally officially dating now?  He insisted on walking you home yesterday, and then you both arrived together this morning.  I assumed he confessed to you.  The King and Queen of the Court, together at last."  He swallowed a big mouthful of the soda and stared off into the slowly darkening sky, not looking at Nakano.  He took her silence as confirmation of his assumptions.

Suddenly, Nakano exploded in laughter.  

"What the..." Tsukishima looked over at the girl to find her almost doubled over, tears running down her cheeks as she laughed and gasped for air.  He was completely perplexed.  He just sat there, staring, not having a clue what was happening.  She slowly got her breath back and clapped him on the shoulder.

"What...what is it with you and your concern over my love life?"  she gasped out.  She took a deep breath to steady herself and drank some of her soda. "Look, I told you before.  Kags and I have never dated.  Kags and I will not be dating in the future.  He's like the brother I never had.  I can't imagine dating him - ever."  She thought back to their adorably awkward kiss of the night before and started chuckling again.  "Honestly, Tsukishima, since it seems to concern you so much, I'm not really thinking about dating anyone right now.  But if I were, Kags would not be on the list of potential love interests.  Are we good on that point now?  Have I made it clear?  Me and Kageyama - not a thing."  She smiled at him, her blue eyes sparkling.

He couldn't help but let out a small smile at her amused face. "Got it.  It just seemed like...well...such a classic confession scenario."

She laughed again.  "Okay, I admit you're right about that."  She smirked at him.  "Maybe that's how you'll do it when you finally work up the courage, hmmm?  You seem to spend a lot of time worrying about whether or not I'm available.  Could it be that you want to confess to me yourself?"

He glared at her.  "Oh, don't you wish, Queen."

"I don't know..." she said, her eyes still sparkling as she looked around the yard, "we're sitting together, watching the sunset, sharing a soda...this also seems like a pretty classic set up..." She leaned over with her head turned up toward him and batted her eyelashes, giving him an over the top lovelorn look.  "Don't you have something you want to say to me, Tsukki?" she asked in a squeaky, sappy, intensely girly voice.

He tried hard to stay serious.  He really did.  But she was just too funny looking at that  moment.  His mouth quirked into a wry smile.  "Yes, I do."  She started making kissy motions with her lips. He sipped his soda one more time, then poured the rest of it on her lips.  The sticky sweet liquid ran over her face, into her hair and down her shirt as she spluttered and jumped up.  He laughed aloud.

"Oh really?  Take this!"  His eyes widened as she put her thumb over the opening of her soda and started to shake it.  He stood up, backing away.  "Nakano you wouldn't I still have to walk...AAAH!" he yelled as a spray of strawberry soda caught him in the face.  "You..." he reached over to the girl, trying to grab the soda.  She tried to run, laughing, but the braces slowed her movements.  She knew she was doomed.  He caught up to her easily and wrestled the bottle out of her grasp.  Fortunately for her, the rest of the soda had already spilled out in the process of the struggle.  He frowned.  

"Well that's unfair.  How am I supposed to get my revenge now?"  He looked at her and chuckled.

"Your revenge?  Which one of us has more soda on them?" She pointed at her stained tee shirt.

"Yeah, but you got my glasses.  Everything is all...smeary."

She laughed.  "All right.  Truce.  Come on inside and wash off your glasses before you head home.  I'm not having Daichi mad at me because you couldn't see and tripped over your own two feet trying to walk a block."

🏐🏐🏐

The midday bell sounded on another lovely Monday.  Students started leaving Class 1-4, most of them headed outside.  Tsukishima, Yamaguchi and Nakano headed for the rooftop, Nakano keeping her promise to only work out during lunch on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  Today, she would be joining the boys for a relaxing meal.

"You sure you don't mind going up to the roof?" Tsukishima asked, carrying Nakano's bento as she folded her wheelchair while they walked.

"I'm looking forward to it.  It's really nice out today, and if I'd had to spend another minute in that stuffy classroom, I'd have been sound asleep.  Fresh air and sunshine sounds ideal.  Don't worry, Tsukishima..."

"...she's got this." Tadashi finished for Nakano with a smile.

Nakano fixed the freckled boy with a mock glare.  "Don't you start getting sassy on me too, Yams.  I get all the sass I can handle from this one."  She jerked her thumb at Tsukishima.  

"Please," the tall blonde retorted, "look who's talking about sass."

The trio stepped out on to the roof, and made their way to a quiet and sunny spot to eat.  Nakano settled into place, draping her jacket over her legs.  Still hiding them I see, Tsukishima thought.  

"Are you calling me sassy?  Me?  I was not the one who started the great soda war."  Nakano complained to the blonde as she opened her bento.

"Excuse me?  You were making ridiculous kissy faces at me."  Tsukishima shot back.

"Kissy faces!?" Yamaguchi exclaimed, "When did all this happen?"  Tsukishima blushed ever so slightly.  Wow, Yamaguchi thought, Tsukki is blushing.  He didn't tell me anything at all about spending time with Nakano away from practice.  I can't believe this is happening...

"You mean he didn't regale you with the story of our battle in the backyard?"  Nakano laughed.

"No..." Yams looked at her with interest.  "Please, do tell me."  He glanced over at Tsukki, who was studiously eating his lunch.

Nakano told the whole story.  "...so then, he got the bottle from me, but all the rest of the soda had spilled out.  He had the nerve to complain that he couldn't get his revenge!"

"Well, I couldn't.  You deserved to be punished, spraying soda all over my glasses like that."  Tsukishima smirked at the girl.

"I deserved...dude!  You poured soda ON MY FACE!  It soaked into my hair...my shirt...my BRA!"  She chuckled as both boys colored as she yelled out about her undergarments.  "I had to shower after you left and put all of my clothes in the wash!  What did you have to do?  Wash your face?"

"So you admit that I got the better of you?" Tsukishima smirked at her again, leaning in towards her face.

She leaned fractionally closer to him.  "They sell soda in the vending machines by the gym.  Do not make me go buy one."

Tsukishima snorted.  "You'd never get there and back before lunch was over."  And then he mentally facepalmed.  Did I just say that?  I am such an ass!

Nakano's eyes flashed sharp for a moment, then she smirked.  "Then I guess I'd have to send my faithful friend Yamaguchi to get a soda for me."  She looked over to Yams, who was watching the two spar with a smile on his face.  "What do you say, Yams?  Wanna help me put this smart aleck in his place?"  She poked Tsukishima in the chest.

Tsukishima scoffed.  Yamaguchi laughed aloud.  "Sure, Nakano!"  "WHAT?" Tsukishima stared at his best friend as Tadashi stood up and trotted over to the door of the roof.  "Oh don't worry, Tsukki," Yams turned back with a devilish little smile, "I'll buy a soda for you, too."  He disappeared through the door.

Tsukishima and Nakano just looked at one another, confused.

Yamaguchi grinned from ear to ear as he made his way towards the vending machine.  This couldn't be going any better if I had deliberately planned it, he thought.  I am so glad Tsukki got Nakano to start joining us for lunch.  You're going to start coming out from behind those walls you've built Tsukki, whether you like it or not.

🏐🏐🏐

It was at Tuesday afternoon's practice that Daichi called for a run after their usual warm ups.  The boys groaned as always, but Nakano silently exulted.  She'd been waiting for the captain to call for a run, and today was finally the day.  She got up from stretching and started heading towards the door with the others.  

Daichi came over to her.  "Nakano?  Where are you going?"

"I'm going to run with you today, Cap.  I'm ready."

He looked at her.  "What are you talking about?"

"Five miles, right?  I can do it now.  Let me come along with you and show you."  He looked at her skeptically, and she leaned in towards him, whispering.  "Please don't tell the boys, but I've been doing six miles on my own to make sure I'd be ready when you called for a run.  I got this, Cap."

He fixed her with a stare that made her a little uncomfortable.  "And why don't you want me to tell the boys, Nakano?"

She rubbed the back of her neck.  "Well, some of them think I push myself too much."  Namely Tobio and Tsukki, she thought.  

"Really," Daichi said, leaning closer to her, "Were you somehow not aware that I am one of them?"  Nakano's eyes widened at his somewhat intimidating aura.

"Uh...please, Cap?  I...uh...I've trained hard for this..." Nakano wasn't sure if she was making her case or digging her own grave.

"Hey Captain, are we heading out?" Hinata called from the door of the gym.  He was bouncing up and down, ready to run.

"Yep," Daichi called, "But first, I have a request from Nakano.  She wants to join us on our run today."

"YEAH!" called Noya, Tanaka and Hinata.

"Absolutely not," said Kageyama and Tsukishima simultaneously, and then glared at each other.

Narita chuckled to Ennoshita and Kinoshita.  "Well, that was predictable."

Nakano threw Daichi an irritated look.  "Guys, I've been working on endurance.  I've successfully completed several six mile runs on my own..."  Nakano faltered when she caught Kageyama's wide eyed glare, "...and I think I'm ready to come along this time.  Please let me join you!"  Nakano bowed.

Noya and Tanaka burst into tears.  "Daichi!" they exclaimed, "Let her run with us!"

Daichi shook his head at the pair.  "We'll put it to a vote.  All those who think Nakano should join us..."  Noya, Tanaka, Hinata, Suga, Kinoshita, Asahi, Kiyoko and Nakano all raised their hands.  "All right, Nakano," he said with a sigh, "looks like you pulled a slim majority."

"YES!"  The girl smiled brightly at her supporters.

"However," Daichi continued, "here's how this will work.  Asahi and Suga, you'll be her running buddies.  If anything happens to her, it's your job to make sure she gets back safely."  Daichi's smile turned a bit...evil.  "And Tsukishima and Kageyama...if indeed Asahi and Suga have to help her back here...you'll be allowed to decide what her penalty should be."

Both boys turned a wicked grin on to Nakano.  "Oh heck no.  Not happening.  Asahi, Suga, I promise you, I got this.  Daichi, you really know how to motivate a girl.  Let's get it started, boys!" 

Daichi laughed and headed out the door at a jog, Nakano on his heels.  The rest of the team followed suit.  

Daichi set a brisk pace for the boys.  Nakano stayed towards the back of the pack, trying to take it a little easy on herself.  She really did not want to run the risk of paying whatever insane penalty Tsukishima and Kageyama were bound to try to impose on her should she falter.  Asahi and Suga stayed near her, and encouraged her.  She looked ahead to see Kageyama and Tsukishima actually talking with one another.  I'll be damned, she thought.  Daichi, I did not give you enough credit.  I bet you knew those two would so love the idea of devising some kind of hideous penalty for me to pay that they'd even work with each other in order to get to do it.  She chuckled.  Well played, Cap, well played. 

Yamaguchi dropped back to join her.  "Hey Nakano!  How are you doing?"

"Just fine, Yams!  Thanks!"

She flashed him a smile, and he looked down at his feet, blushing a little.  "I...I'm sorry I didn't vote for you..."

"Hey, don't be silly!  I know you guys worry about me, and I really appreciate that.  I can't be mad at you guys for caring, now can I?  Plus, I'd imagine you were a little worried about something like that happening..." She gestured up ahead with her chin, where Kageyama was calling Hinata a dumbass and whacking him on the head.  She laughed.  "Tsukishima probably wouldn't hit you, but dealing with him giving you the cold shoulder would be kinda tough on you, wouldn't it?"

Yamaguchi's eyes widened.  He really did hate it when Tsukki shut him out, and that was at least part of why he hadn't raised his hand in favor of Nakano.  He blushed a little.  "How do you know me so well after such a short time?"

It was her turn to color a little.  "I'm a pretty good observer, Yams.  You and Tsukishima have been friends a long time.  I can see the dynamic you've built up."  She smiled.  "Don't give it another thought, okay?  I'm just glad to be out here with you guys."

A little later in the run, Nishinoya dropped back to chat with Nakano as well.  "What's up, Noya-senpai?" she asked with a smile.

"I gotta ask...if you can run like this without your braces, why do you still need them at all?"

"Well, it's a question of endurance and training.  I'll make it through this run, but after it, I'm going to need to treat my legs, and I'll need to wear my braces for the rest of practice.  I could try going longer without them, but the chance of my legs giving out on me will go way up.  Also, you've seen how jumping kinda doesn't work well for me, right?  Well, my doctor has had me working on jogging for longer distances to get my legs used to impacts again.  I'm not at the point where I can spike or serve yet, though.  Those jumps are too intense - I can't land them.  But...soon, I hope."  

"Wow," Noya looked at her with sparkling eyes, "you're really amazing, Nakano.  I don't know how you do it!"

She blushed and stared down at her feet.  "It's nothing special, Noya-senpai. I'm not amazing... "

"Hey," Suga chimed in, "sure you are!  In the space of a couple of months, you've been able to get to the point where you can run with us!  I think that's pretty amazing indeed."

"Please Suga...I'm just trying to get back on the court.  You...you know that I'm not anywhere near as amazing as you."  She slowed her pace to put herself at the very back of the group, her cheeks red.

"Did I say something wrong?" Noya asked the silver-haired setter.

"No, I don't think so, Noya."

Asahi looked back at the girl.  "What did she mean Suga?  I mean, not that you're not amazing, but...do you know something about her we don't?"

Suga thought back to the night at the training camp.  "We talked once about...her approach to her recovery.  We're helping her with her physical recovery for sure," Suga said, lowering his voice and glancing back at the strawberry blonde girl, "but I think she's got some emotional recovering to do too.  That can be a lot harder."

Asahi looked sad, but then set his face in a determined grin.  "Well, then we'll just have to do our best to help her with that too."

Noya smiled.  "Yeah!'

Soon enough, Daichi led the team back to the gym.  "Get some water, and then get ready for serving and receiving drills.  Fifty of each!"  The groans from the boys were impressive.  Nakano was the last to enter the gym.  "Nice work, Nakano," Daichi said, "you avoided the penalty.  I'm sure it would have been awful, too."  He chuckled.

Nakano smiled a tired smile at her captain.  "Cap, I'm going to treat my legs and keep my braces on for the rest of the day.  I can still set if you need me to."

He placed a fatherly hand on her shoulder.  "Take it easy for the rest of today.  It's going to be a hard week on all of us, and I'm going to need everyone at their best.  Including our managers."

He wasn't wrong.

🏐🏐🏐

By the time Friday rolled around, everyone on the team was exhausted.  Afternoon practice had been short, with everyone being sent home to get a good night's rest before the start of the Interhigh Prelims.  Nakano had completed her night routine and was lounging in bed, checking out the group chat.

Tangerine
I'm so excited for tomorrow!  This is gonna be so amazing!

Dadchi
Hinata, don't stay up too late.  I want you well rested for tomorrow. 

Yams
And please don't eat too much in the morning.  I don't think Tanaka's pants can take it.

Queen
Nice one Yams!  I'm so sorry I missed that first bus ride...

Dadchi
Wait a minute...who changed my name to Dadchi?  What the heck is that even supposed to mean?

Nakano laughed.  Her phone chimed again, this time with a private message.

My Big Bro 🤗
Hey, little sis.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey Tobio!  How's my big bro tonight?

My Big Bro 🤗
I don't wanna upset you but you know he's gonna be there, right?

Queen Setter 🏐
Yeah, I know.  He'd better stay the hell away from me.

My Big Bro 🤗
He hasn't changed.  If he sees you...

Queen Setter 🏐
Then I'll deal with him.

My Big Bro 🤗
You gonna be okay?  If we're in the middle of a game I may not be able to help.

Queen Setter 🏐
I got this.  I can take care of things myself.

My Big Bro 🤗
Promise me you'll be careful.

Queen Setter 🏐
Promise me you'll kick ass on the court.  😁

My Big Bro 🤗
Deal. 🤗

Queen Setter 🏐
Goodnight, Tobio-chan.  Sleep well okay?  Tomorrow we're gonna fly!  Love you big bro! 💕

My Big Bro 🤗
Back atcha little sis!  See ya tomorrow! 💕

Queen Setter 🏐
YOU SENT ME HEARTS!!!

My Big Bro 🤗
Go to sleep you weirdo.

Nakano smiled and settled down to sleep.  She was nervous about tomorrow, and not just for her team.  She knew that whatever happened tomorrow, things were going to change.

Chapter Text

The Karasuno Boys' Volleyball Team entered Sendai City Gymnasium.  Almost immediately, they could hear the talk.  The phrases "flightless crows" and "fallen powerhouse" were spoken more than once.  Tanaka and Noya got in trouble with Daichi and Kiyoko for their vigorous defense of their school's honor (and Kiyoko's honor too, of course).  Nakano held her head high and said nothing, but cheered for Tanaka and Noya's efforts in her mind.  All in all, she thought, the usual smack talk.  Nothing too bad.  Nothing we can't handle...and nothing the boys won't completely dispel once they take the court.

It wasn't until she began to hear whispers about the Ace that Nakano became upset.  Had it been almost anyone else, she would have shrugged it off as more smack talk and thought little of it.  But Asahi was the most gentle and sensitive of the team.  She knew that he would let those words in...and when she looked over at him after hearing a boy claim the kind-hearted third-year was a drug dealer, she saw the hurt on his face.  She started glaring daggers at anyone who dared speak unkindly about him.  Several boys shrank from her icy blue eyes.  She stuck close to Asahi, and when the team settled down to begin stretching, she moved to help him.

"Hey," she said as she leaned on Asahi's back, helping him stretch out, "you know those guys only say those things because you're such a badass on the court, right?  They figure if you're a badass on the court, you gotta be a badass off the court too."

"I know," he said, clearly trying to keep a positive attitude. "I won't let it bother me."

Nakano chuckled.  "It's okay if it bothers you."

"Huh?" Asahi looked up at her.  That wasn't what he was expecting to hear.

She smiled at him.  "It bothers me when I hear people whispering about me, too."

"People whisper about you?"

"Sure.  They see a girl with a wheelchair and braces on her legs...well, they assume a lot of things.  Some assume that I must be sick with something and they avoid me.  Sometimes it's that if my body is broken, then my mind must be too.  They assume I'm stupid.  That bothers me a lot.  The worst is when they assume that someone I care about must have done this to me, and they say things about my family, or my friends.  Those are the ones that really upset me."

Asahi's face became concerned.  "Nakano, I had no idea..."

She shook her head.  "This isn't about me, Ace.  I just told you those things so that you know that I really do understand.  It's okay if the whispers bother you.  What matters is what you do with that feeling.  The people who really care about you, your team, we know none of that nonsense is true.  We know the real you.  We got you.  The only thing you need to do when you hear those idiots whisper is show them the real you...the badass Ace that rules the court.  Okay?  Hold your head up high, smile, and when you hear the whispers, vow to show them how stupid they are on the court."

Asahi smiled at her.  "Thanks, Nakano.  I won't let you down."

She laughed.  "You can't, Ace.  I'm too proud of you already."  She pulled him into a side hug, and as she did, her lips just barely grazed along his hair on the top of his head.  If you'd asked either one about it, neither would have even known what you were talking about.

However, it was enough to set off Tanaka and Nishinoya's ultra sensitive kiss sensors.

The pair suddenly popped up in front of Nakano.  "DID YOU JUST K-"

Nakano jumped up and slapped her hands over their mouths.  "Yes, I just hugged Asahi.  Do we need to yell that fact across the entire sports complex?"

Both boys tried to talk against Nakano's hands, causing her to shudder and yank her hands back.  "Ewwwww, guys!  No licking."

Kageyama was suddenly standing next to Nakano, his dark blue eyes boring into Tanaka and Nishinoya.  "Who did what now?  Did she say you licked her?"

"We didn't!  We just saw her kiss Asahi and..." began Noya.

"What!?" Kageyama looked at Nakano in shock.

She rolled her eyes. "Ugh, no, I hugged him.  Encouraging side hug.  Like this."  She side hugged Kageyama, squeezing his shoulders like she had done to Asahi.  "Nothing more exciting than that, boys."

Tanaka peered at her.  "I think your lips touched Asahi's head."

"Yeah," Noya agreed, "I'm pretty positive there was some lip contact involved there."

"No,"  Kageyama said with finality.  "There wasn't.  So get over it."

"Awww, but we just want an encouraging kiss too!"  Tanaka said.

"Yeah, if the ace gets encouragement, I think the libero should get some!" Noya added.

"I'm telling you guys, forget it. Nakano is not about to..." Kageyama started telling the boys off.   The three began to argue about the necessity and efficacy of pre-game encouragement kisses.  

Asahi had slowly moved away from the argument.  Daichi was about to intervene, but Suga stopped him.  "Give it another second.  Look at Nakano's face," he said, with a devilish smile on his lips.

Nakano looked at the three boys arguing with a face that clearly showed how fed up she was with the lot of them.  She glanced to the side to see Tsukishima smirking at her.  She gave him a questioning look.  He made a kissy face at her and mouthed 'I dare you.'  Her return smirk did not go unnoticed by Suga and Daichi.

"Uh oh," Daichi said.

"Here it comes," said Suga.

Nakano quickly leaned in towards each boy and gave them each a small peck, catching Kageyama and Tanaka on the cheek, and Noya on the forehead.  The three boys suddenly stopped arguing and stared at her.  "There.  Now you've all been encouraged.  So cut it out and get ready already!"  She smacked all three boys on the head.  Nakano tossed a victorious 'dare completed' smile at Tsukishima and walked over to the captain.  "Sorry about that, Cap.  I'm gonna go help Kiyoko get everything set up before I head up to the stands."  The strawberry blonde walked over to where her senpai was preparing the materials for the match.

Neither Kageyama, Tanaka or Noya had yet moved.  Tsukishima looked amused, but also slightly annoyed.  "I can't believe she actually did that," he breathed.

"Well, you did dare her, Tsukki."

"Shut up, Yamaguchi."

"Sorry, Tsukki."  He chuckled.  You brought that one on yourself, he thought.

"I think that's the calmest I've ever seen those three," Suga commented.

"Hey," Daichi said softly, sounding a little aggrieved, "How come the captain doesn't get a pre-game encouragement kiss?"

Suga laughed at him as the team all went back to getting prepared without another word.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano helped Kiyoko finish tying off the team's banner.  "I'm sorry you can't stay on the court with us, Nakano," Kiyoko said, "but only one manager is allowed."

"It's okay, Kiyoko-senpai," the girl said, albeit a little sadly.  Before heading up to hang the banner, she'd given high fives to the entire team.  Even Tsukishima had grudgingly slapped her hand gently.  "I'm sorry I won't be there to help.  But I'll have a different perspective on the match from up here, and I'll take plenty of notes."  She leaned against the railing, looking down on her teammates.  "And I promise to be the loudest cheerleader you've ever heard!"  

Kiyoko gave her a small smile.  "Okay, I guess I'll see you after the match."  Nakano waved to the raven-haired girl and settled into a seat close to the railing, her wheelchair folded up nearby.

Nakano kept her entire attention on the boys down below her.  When Nishinoya executed his 'Rolling Thunder...Again' move, she cupped her hands around her mouth and shouted "GOOOOOOO NISHINOYA!!!!"  Noya gave her a thumbs up and a wave. 

"Woah.  Nakano is...loud," said Narita.

Kageyama snorted.  "Just wait."

"What do you mean, Kageyama?" Hinata asked.

"Trust me, Nakano takes games very seriously.  Even when she isn't playing in them.  Since she can't be on the court, I have no doubt she will make herself heard from up there.  Frequently.  Especially as things get more...intense."  Kageyama smiled up at the girl.  

Nakano saw the boys huddle up.  She was already on the edge of her seat, excited for the game to begin.  She heard Daichi yell "Karasunoooo...FIGHT!"

"FIGHT!!" yelled the entire team in response.

"FIIIIIGHT!!!" yelled Nakano, startling several of the boys.

Kageyama smiled a wicked smile.  "See?  I told ya."

And so the game between Karasuno and Tokonami finally got underway.  Nakano was completely absorbed in the game and paid no attention to anything else going on around her.  She shouted encouragement to the boys and cheered whenever they scored a point.  Fortunately, she'd remembered to bring several full water bottles to keep her throat from drying out.

Unfortunately, she was so focused on the game, she paid no attention when several boys in white and turquoise made their way into the stands.  

The boys from Aoba Johsai settled in, commenting on the game.  They were waiting for Karasuno's freak quick duo to bust out their special move.  

"NICE ONE, TSUKISHIMA!" 

Iwaizumi turned to see who was calling out to Karasuno's players.  His eyes widened.  "Hey...is that...?"  He suddenly stopped himself, realizing that he'd likely already done something he was gonna regret.  He looked over at Oikawa and saw that he too, had recognized the girl cheering Karasuno on.  He was getting up, a self-satisfied smirk on his face.

"Look, Loserkawa, just don't..."

"Iwa-chan, I'm just gonna greet her.  For old time's sake."

Iwaizumi shook his head.  This wasn't gonna end well.

Karasuno had taken the first set.  As the boys changed sides, Nakano called out to them.  "NICE GOING GUYS! YOU GOT THIS!"  Kageyama looked up to see Oikawa approaching her.  Oh shit, he thought, this is going to be bad.

"Well, well, what have we here?"

Nakano stiffened.  She knew it was likely she'd run into him here, but she'd somehow hoped it wouldn't happen.  Or at least, not so soon.

"Go. Away." she said, not looking at the boy who was now standing next to her.

"Oh come now, Your Royal Majesty, surely the Queen of the Court can spare a moment for an old friend?"

Nakano snorted.

"And look at you in a Karasuno uniform...are you their manager now?" Oikawa clasped his hands together like one of his fangirls.  "Oh...so perfect...a fallen queen for a fallen powerhouse!  I am so happy for you Naka-chan..."

Nakano suddenly stood up, her hand flying towards Oikawa's face.

CRACK!  The sound of her slapping him resounded in the gym.  

She glared at him with her ice blue eyes on fire.  "You have no right to call me that.  NEVER CALL ME THAT AGAIN!"  She pointed down at her team.  "You see those boys in the orange and black?  ANY ONE OF THEM can call me Naka-chan, because they actually care.  But you?  You're lucky I'll let you call me Ogawa.  Get the hell away from me, Shittykawa!"

Down on the floor, several of the boys looked up at the sound.  

"Wooaaahh," Hinata gasped, "Nakano just slapped the Great King!"

Kageyama sighed.  "Yeah, that's not surprising.  I hope it stops there."

"What do you mean?" asked Tsukishima.

"Well, he is her ex-boyfriend," Kageyama replied.

Oikawa scowled at her.  "A beautiful relationship for almost 5 months and this is how you treat me?"

"Nothing about our relationship was beautiful," Nakano spat, "you used me and when I was no longer useful to you, you dumped me."  She looked down and saw several of the boys staring up at them.  "Beat it, you loser, I don't have any more time to waste on you."

Oikawa's eyes were cold as he looked her up and down.  "Same old Nakano, no time for me then, no time for me now.  No wonder you've been all alone since I left you."

Nakano gritted her teeth together, trying hard not to scream at him.  "I...was lying in a hospital bed, you pathetic excuse for a human being.  I couldn't spend time with you because I was literally fighting to stay alive.  Maybe you should ask yourself what kind of...boyfriend..." she flung the word at him, "dumps a girl by text while she's recovering from a car accident.  You've tried so damn hard to knock me down, Kusokawa, but guess what?  I'm still standing.  Go back to your fangirls, asshole.  Maybe one of them will give a damn about you."  Nakano turned her attention back to the team.

Oikawa smirked at her again.  "And yet, you're still alone, aren't you, my queen?  No one's been willing to...OW!!!"  Iwaizumi smacked Oikawa hard on the top of the head, then grabbed the collar of his shirt.  "That's enough, Jerkykawa.  Time for you to be somewhere else."  He glanced at the girl.  "Sorry, Ogawa."

"Next time put a muzzle on him Iwaizumi-san," Nakano said, not looking up at them.  She started breathing deeply and regularly, trying to clear her mind of the aggravation.  

Hinata stared up at Nakano.  "She dated the Great King?  I guess it didn't go so well..."

Kageyama nodded.  "At least she kept it to one slap.  I was afraid she'd really let him have it."

Tsukishima stared up at the girl.  He swore he could almost see her blue eyes glowing with anger.  He'd tried to hear as much as he could, but the room wasn't really designed for that kind of thing.  Except for her yelling, of course.  That part he'd been able to hear just fine.  But it didn't make a whole lot of sense.  He obviously called her something she didn't like hearing, he thought.  But then, she pointed down at us and yelled something about any one of us.  Maybe that she'd rather be with any one of us than him?  He focused in on her face again, and saw that she was smiling down at him.

"KEEP YOUR HEADS IN THE GAME GUYS! LET'S TAKE THE SECOND SET!"  She locked eyes with Tsukishima and extended her hand down towards him, like she was reaching for a handshake.  He looked at her like she was crazy.  She shook the hand at him, and he slowly reached his hand up like he was going to shake hers.

She then turned her hand as if she'd grabbed his, and mock kissed the back of it.

He blushed lightly and turned away to rejoin the team.  He heard her laughing as he went.

"YOU GOT THIS, TSUKISHIMA!"

Yamaguchi noticed that Tsukki had the smallest of smiles on his face as he jogged up.

🏐🏐🏐

Karasuno took the second set from Tokonami, and Nakano had gone back down to congratulate her team and join them for some food.  No one said a word about her confrontation with Oikawa (although Kageyama had literally had to put his hand over Hinata's mouth to stop him), and she gave them no indication that anything at all might be bothering her.  Now she was back in the bleachers, with several fresh bottles of water at the ready.  Karasuno now had a small cheering section going, thanks to the arrival of Shimada, Takinoue, and the girls' team.  Their first set with Date Tech was underway, and it was clear this one was going to be a much tighter game.

When Hinata and Kageyama finally brought out the freak quick, Nakano got to her feet and cheered.

"HINATA!!  KAGEYAMA!!!  WAY TO GO, GUYS!!!"

Michimiya smiled at the girl, who had barely taken notice of the presence of other people around her supporting the team.  She's really devoted to them, Michimiya thought.  I'm so glad this seems to be working out for her.  She saw Numbers 9 and 10 look up at the girl and wave.  And I guess its working out for them, too.

Karasuno took the first set, 25 to 19.  Nakano cheered at the top of her lungs.  Michimiya tapped her on the shoulder, and the girl jumped, flinging her notebook.

"Michimiya-senpai!  I'm sorry, were you trying to get my attention?"  Michimiya laughed and retrieved the notebook for her.  "I just wanted to say how glad I am that you seem to be happy with the boys' team.  Looks like you've really found yourself a home, Nakano-chan."

Nakano flashed her a brilliant smile and bowed.  "And I have you to thank for that, Michimiya-senpai.  You were right, this was where I needed to be."  She spotted the Ace out of the corner of her eye, and leaned over the railing to yell at him.  "ASAHI!!  YOU DID IT!!  SHOW THEM WHO YOU ARE, ACE!!!"  Asahi gave her a shy smile and a wave.  

Date Tech's supporters started up their cheer again.  "Ugh, I'm really starting to hate them," Nakano growled.  As the second set began, Date Tech's cheer had fallen into its typical rhythm.  Nakano listened carefully, and then decided to try something.

"Go, go, Date Tech, Date Tech, here we go!"

"GO GO DATE TECH DATE TECH HERE WE GO!"

"Go, go, Date Tech, Date Tech, here we go!"

"GO GO DATE TECH DATE TECH HERE WE GO!"

"KARASUNO FIGHT!" Nakano yelled in the gap.

"Go, go, Date Tech, Date Tech, here we go!"

"GO GO DATE TECH DATE TECH HERE WE GO!"

"KARASUNO FIGHT!"

"Go, go, Date Tech, Date Tech, here we go!"

"GO GO DATE TECH DATE TECH HERE WE GO!"

"KARASUNO FIGHT!" This time she was joined by several of the other girls.

"Go, go, Date Tech, Date Tech, here we go!"

"GO GO DATE TECH DATE TECH HERE WE GO!"

"KARASUNO FIGHT!" Now everyone on the Karasuno side was yelling as loud as they could.

"Did Nakano just start a countercheer?" Ennoshita asked Yamaguchi.

The freckle-faced boy laughed. "Yep, I'm pretty sure she did."

The second set was even more tense than the first, with the score staying pretty even.  Nakano knew the boys were getting tired.  A third set against Date Tech was not something she wanted them to have to endure.  She watched as the ball sped towards the floor on Karasuno's side...and Nishinoya seemed frozen.  Her hands flew to her mouth.

And then suddenly, Noya's leg shot out.  The ball bounced off his foot.

"THAT'S MY NOYA SENPAI!!!!!"  Nakano bellowed, standing up and leaning over the railing.

Shimada reached out to her again automatically.  He sighed at Takinoue.  "Every time she does that I'm sure she's gonna go right over that railing..."  Takinoue just chuckled.

They'd finally made it to match point.  Twice thus far, Asahi had tried to close the deal, to no avail.  Nakano was on her feet, eyes glued to Kageyama.  Come on, she thought, give him one more set.  Asahi called for the ball.  "AAAAASSAAAAAAAAHHIIIIIII!" The ace's name seem to come from somewhere down deep in Nakano's gut.  

He flew.  And connected.  And the ball fell on the other side of the court.

"THAT'S OUR ACE!!!"  Nakano screamed.

Karasuno had defeated Date Tech.  

🏐🏐🏐

Later that night, despite the high levels of exhaustion, the Crow VB group chat was quite lively.

NOT Baldy
You did it, my man!  You broke through that Iron Wall!

Man Bun
Yeah, but it took a lot of help from you guys.  It's not like I did it alone.

Queen
YOU ROCKED IT ACE!!

Man Bun
LOL You are not gonna have any voice left for tomorrow, Nakano.  When you yelled out for me on that last hit - well I really appreciated that.

Queen
Awwww, anything for our Ace!

Rolling Thunder Again changed Queen's name to Encouragement Kisser

King
The hell?

King changed Encouragement Kisser's name to LITTLE SISTER

LITTLE SISTER
Kags! Really?

NOT Baldy changed LITTLE SISTER's name to Encouragement Kisser

Stingyshima
You might as well let them have it for awhile, King.  She did give the three of you encouragement kisses.

Encouragement Kisser
Because someone dared me to...

King
WHAT?

Yams
You three looked so funny...all that build up and then when she actually gave you kisses you just stood there!  It was classic.

Encouragement Kisser
Who knew a little peck on the cheek from me could be so powerful? 😘

Rolling Thunder Again
Mine was on my forehead, thank you very much.  I may not wash for days.

Stingyshima
Please take a shower tonight, senpai.

Suga
So I think the captain would like one of those encouragement kisses tomorrow, Nakano. 😘

Daichi
SUGA!  Don't mind him Nakano, he's being a smart aleck.

Tangerine
Me too!  I want an encouragement kiss! 😘

Encouragement Kisser
Awww, so you don't want a kiss from me, Cap?  😏

Daichi changed Suga's name to Penalty Laps Coming Soon

King
Okay, no one is getting encouragement kisses tomorrow!  Let's change the subject.

Tangerine
No fair, Bakayama!  You got one, it's my turn!

King changed Encouragement Kisser's name to Best Cheerleader

Tangerine changed King's name to Bakayama

Best Cheerleader
Oh please!  I am so not a cheerleader!

Stingyshima
I don't know, Nakano, you did pretty well at cheerleading today.  Weren't you the one who started clapping back at Date Tech's crowd?

Penalty Laps Coming Soon
She was.  Asahi's right, are you going to be able to talk tomorrow?

Best Cheerleader
LOL of course.  Yelling is an art form.  I know how to prepare for it.  And how to treat my throat afterwards.  This is not my first rodeo, boys.

Rolling Thunder Again
I do love a gal with experience.

Bakayama
WHAT?!!  Take that back!

Yams
Um, Nishinoya-senpai...

Lucky 7
Really, Noya?  That's a bit overdone, don't you think?

Stingyshima
Well, she kind of did set herself up for it.

Best Cheerleader
BWAHAHAHAHA!  Fair point, oh Salty One.

Rolling Thunder Again
Sorry, Nakano.  I was just joking around.

Best Cheerleader
I know, Noya-senpai.  😘

Rolling Thunder Again
HA HA!  I GOT ANOTHER ENCOURAGEMENT KISS!

Tangerine
No fair!

Man Bun
How did we come back around to this again?  

Daichi
Asahi's got a point guys.  Let's call it a night.  We've got to be back on the court tomorrow, and everyone needs some rest.  Goodnight team!

Best Cheerleader
CONGRATULATIONS GUYS!!!  I'm gonna cheer twice as loud for you tomorrow!  Goodnight!

Tangerine
I'm still gonna get my encouragement kiss, right Nakano?

Bakayama
GO TO SLEEP DUMBASS!

Nakano chuckled as the group chat wound down with final goodnights.  If I know Tobio...she thought.

DING!

Right on time.

My Big Bro 🤗
DID THAT ASSHOLE DARE YOU TO KISS THOSE GUYS?

Queen Setter 🏐
Yes but I was thinking of doing it anyway.  You guys were being ridiculous.  And you need to dial it back BIG BRO.  I can't believe you named me LITTLE SISTER in the group chat!

My Big Bro 🤗
I'd rather they thought of you as a little sister than as the team's Encouragement Kisser!  

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio-chan, stop worrying.  Seeing Shittykawa today reminded me why I've not been anxious to get another boyfriend any time soon.

My Big Bro 🤗
You okay?  That slap was something else.

Queen Setter 🏐
He had the nerve to call me Naka-chan.

My Big Bro 🤗
I am in awe of your restraint.  

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL.  Actually it felt good to let a little of that out.  But if he tries it again tomorrow, I'm gonna kill him.  Thanks for letting the team know not to ask - that helped a lot.

My Big Bro 🤗
I didn't.  They kinda figured that out for themselves.  Well, all except that dumbass Hinata.

Queen Setter 🏐
Shoyo is all kinds of adorable, but not always the first to correctly read the room.

My Big Bro 🤗
You're not actually gonna give him a kiss tomorrow, are you?

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL Tobio, if I do, it will be purely to drive you nuts.  💕 Get some sleep, big bro.  I want you to be ready to kick Seijoh's flat ass tomorrow.

My Big Bro 🤗
Gonna do it for you, little sis.  Night. 💕

Nakano put her phone down to charge, turned off her light, and settled into bed.

DING!

What did you forget Tobio?  she thought.  Holy crap.  It's Tsukki.

Salty Ass 🧂
Hey.  Can I ask you something?

Queen Setter 🏐
Sure.  What's on your mind?

Salty Ass 🧂
Are you okay?  It looked like you had quite a run in with Oikawa.

She stared at his text.  

Salty Ass 🧂
Nevermind.  Guess you've got this, as always.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey, wait.  I'm sorry.  It's just kinda crappy ya know.

Queen Setter 🏐
He was my boyfriend for a while when I started middle school.  Before the accident.  Let's just say things ended badly.  Today was the first time I've actually spoken to him since then.

She sighed.  Why am I telling him this shit?  She moved to put her phone back down again when...

Salty Ass 🧂
Wow, that must have sucked.  You delivered a hell of a slap though.  That must have felt good.

Queen Setter 🏐
He had it coming for sure.  And yeah - it did feel good.

Salty Ass 🧂
Did he call you something bad?

Queen Setter 🏐
He called me Naka-chan.  Like he did when we were dating.  I told him all of you guys on the team had more right to call me Naka-chan than he did.  

Salty Ass 🧂
OMG Imagine the look on the King's face if I were to call you Naka-chan tomorrow.

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL He would probably explode.  Maybe save that for a day you guys are not playing a match.

Salty Ass 🧂
Where's the fun in that? 😏

Queen Setter 🏐
Thanks, Tsukki.

Salty Ass 🧂
What for?

Queen Setter 🏐
Just thanks.  You'd better get some rest.  Goodnight Tsukki.

Salty Ass 🧂
Night Nakano.

Tsukishima set his phone down.  I hope we can kick his ass tomorrow, he thought.  For her.

Chapter Text

Nakano woke early the next morning, and grabbed her phone immediately.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey you awake?

My Big Bro 🤗
Mostly.  What's up?

Queen Setter 🏐
Can you come to Karasuno a little early?  I wanna talk before everything starts happening.

My Big Bro 🤗
What's wrong? You okay?

Queen Setter 🏐
Yep.  I just figured you might need a little extra something something from the team's official encouragement kisser. 😘

My Big Bro 🤗
Do not start this again.

Queen Setter 🏐
Just meet me there okay?

My Big Bro 🤗
I'll be there by 7:45

Nakano smiled and hurried to prepare.  After yesterday's yelling, she needed a strong cup of tea with plenty of honey to start the day.  

Nakano and Kageyama met up on their way to the gym.  The girl pulled him over to a bench not far from the vending machines.

"So what's this all about Naka-chan?"

She smiled at him and pulled him into a tight hug.  Kageyama started, but soon returned it, feeling the warm, full feeling in his chest that hugging Nakano always gave him.  This is good, he thought, but what's on her mind?  He stayed put for a few moments, just enjoying the pleasant feeling, before voicing his concerns.

"Naka-chan?  Not that I don't appreciate this, but..."

She let him go and smiled at him again.  "Yesterday, you supported me through my confrontation with Flattykawa.  Today, I want you to know that I will support you through yours."

His eyes widened and he looked at her.  My first real game against him, he thought.  I guess I shouldn't be surprised that she knows how important this is to me.  

"I won't lose," Kageyama said, giving the girl a fierce grin.

"Wrong," she replied.  "We won't lose.  Dammit Tobio, don't fall into his trap again.  You are not facing him alone.  You've got a team on your side.  We face him together, okay?  Don't let him get inside your head."  Kageyama nodded, his eyes still wide as he processed her words.  "I know it will be hard.  He's really good at messing with people...and he knows he's got ways into our heads especially.  He won't hesitate to use those weapons on the court.  Just remember the team will have your back.  And I'll be cheering you on the whole time."

"Thanks, Naka-chan."  Kageyama noticed Tsukishima and Yamaguchi approaching.  He stood up and held out his fist, offering her their traditional best-friend hug.  She laughed and enthusiastically participated in their little ritual.  

"Oh," she said, as they parted from their hug, "be ready to change your signals too.  I'll bet you anything Jerkykawa went over our game with Date Tech with a fine tooth comb.  If he hasn't figured out the signals from watching that, you can bet he'll catch on pretty early into the game today."  Kageyama agreed.

"Morning, Nakano, Kageyama," Yamaguchi called out with a wave.

"Yes, good morning, Your Highness," Tsukishima smirked at Kageyama, who just glowered at him.  "And good morning to you, Naka-chan," he said with a wicked smile, "Giving some encouragement to the King, I see?"  Yamaguchi looked at Tsukishima.  Did he just call her Naka-chan?  When did that become a thing?

Kageyama started to turn to the blonde with a murderous look, but stopped when Nakano held up a hand in front of his face.  "Remember what I said yesterday?" she whispered to him.  Kageyama let out his breath in an explosive sigh.  "Yeah, yeah," he breathed out.

"Good morning, Yams!  Morning Tsukki!" Nakano sang out cheerfully.  Suddenly, the girl grabbed the blonde middle blockers' arm and yanked down, forcing him to stoop a little.  She planted a kiss on his cheek.  "Encouragement kiss!" she yelled. 

"Ugh!  Quit it," Tsukishima said, turning pink and stalking off towards the gym.  Yamaguchi chuckled, and Nakano joined him.  Kageyama rolled his eyes.  "If you're starting this again, I'm going inside."  He made his way over to the gym.  Nakano laughed even harder.  "They are so serious, aren't they?  They both need to loosen up and have a little fun."

Yamaguchi looked at Nakano.  Tsukki said she considers Kageyama like her brother, he thought, but I wonder, what does she consider Tsukki?  She didn't even seem to react when he called her Naka-chan.  He cleared his throat.  "Hey Nakano," he nervously rubbed the back of his neck, "umm...I was wondering...do you..."

"Awww, do you want some encouragement too?  You bet, Yams!"  She gave the shocked young man a big hug and a peck on the cheek.  "I know you guys are gonna do great today!  Let's go catch up with the other two."  She headed towards the gym.

"HEY!!!" Hinata came running up behind Nakano.  "Was that an encouragement kiss you just gave Yamaguchi?  I want one too!'  She laughed and got him to stop bouncing so she could give him a peck on the cheek, which started him bouncing again.  "YAY!!!  I GOT AN ENCOURAGEMENT KISS!"  Nakano laughed again.

"DUMBASS!  SHUT UP!  AND QUIT KISSING PEOPLE NAKANO!!" Kageyama yelled.

Yamaguchi smiled and gently touched his cheek where Nakano had kissed it.  Well, that wasn't what I was going to ask about, he thought, but I guess it was nice to get some encouragement.  He started walking toward the gym, a realization hitting him.  She and I are kind of in the same position right now.  All we can really do is encourage our teammates.  At least I get to be down on the floor with them.  He smiled.  She really is the best cheerleader.

🏐🏐🏐

In the end, Nakano had given each of them an 'encouragement kiss', including Kiyoko, which nearly put Noya and Tanaka in the hospital.  As she turned to head up to the bleachers to watch the game and cheer the team on, Daichi called her over.

"What's up, Cap?  Did I forget something?"

"Nope," Daichi said to her with a smile, "we just think you should be here when we do this.  Huddle up, team!"

Nakano felt tears prick her eyes as Yamaguchi put an arm around her on one side, and Tsukishima did the same on the other.  Kageyama looked over at her with a small, sweet smile.  Daichi was saying words of encouragement, but she could barely hear.  The rest of the boys smiled as she caught their eyes.  They pulled me into the team huddle, she thought.  What did I ever do to deserve these guys?  Soon enough, Daichi called out "Karasuno, FIGHT!"

"FIGHT!!" Nakano yelled with her team, as loud as she could.

Tsukishima grimaced.  "I see yesterday's yelling did nothing to diminish your voice today."

She smiled at him as the huddle broke up.  "Nope! I plan to make sure you can hear me loud and clear from up there."  She patted his shoulder.  "You got this, Tsukki."  He gave her a small smile and headed over to join his teammates.

Kageyama stuck out his fist again at Nakano.  "One more time?"  

"You bet," she replied, once again doing their best-friend hug.  From the far side of the court, she heard a familiar voice. "Iwa-chan, look, they still do that.  How adorably pitiful."  Nakano felt Kageyama stiffen as they one-arm hugged.  She held him in place and whispered in his ear.  "I plan to completely tune out his stupid voice today.  You do the same, okay?"  As they parted, they heard another familiar voice, along with the sound of something hitting someone on the head. "Shut up, Loserkawa."  The two best friends just snickered.

"Alright, blondie, as much as we all might want you down here, it's time for you go."  Coach Ukai said.

"Yes, sir."  Nakano turned to head out, whispering as she moved slowly past.  "Hey Coach, thanks for giving me this chance.  Kageyama too."  

🏐🏐🏐

And so Nakano found herself settled in once again above her team.  It wasn't going well.  The boys looked stiff and tense, and Aoba Johsai was running away with the first set.  There had been moments where she could see their skills, like Nishinoya's first receive, but overall, the team was stressing out.  And most of it was coming from Tobio.

"KAGEYAMA!! WE GOT THIS!!!" Nakano shouted, trying to give her best friend some help.  He was too inside his own head, and she knew Oikawa and the others were getting in there as well, feeding those fears.  How do I break him out of it? She tried desperately to figure out what she could say to get him to remember the team had his back.

Tanaka was also under some pressure, as Aoba Johsai deliberately tried to close him down.  It's too quiet down there, Nakano thought, why am I not hearing them like I did yesterday? Everyone is too closed in!  "COME ON GUYS!!  LET ME HEAR YOU!!!"

"Wow, I feel kinda bad for the bald guy," one of Oikawa's fangirls gushed.  Ugh, Nakano thought, feel bad for that pathetic excuse of a man you're so damn fond of.  Tanaka can handle this kind of thing.  Moments later, Tanaka completed a wicked line shot.  "YEAH!!!!  THAT'S MY TANAKA-SENPAI!!!"  

But the point gap wasn't closing.  Soon, Aoba Johsai widened it further.

Before long, she saw Suga standing by the edge of the court.

Holding up a number 9 card.

Damn, she thought, but Coach is right.  Tobio needs to calm down, and he can't do that on the court.  Maybe Suga can change the flow here.  They won't be expecting him as a setter, and if I know Suga, he'll immediately get some positive energy going on our side of the court.

Still, Kageyama's face as he swapped with Suga broke Nakano's heart.  She watched as the silver-haired setter paused and said something to his kohai, making him start.  Once Kageyama was properly off the court, Nakano leaned over the railing and summoned her loudest voice.  "KAGEYAAAAAMMAAAAAAA!!" He looked up at the girl.  She smiled brightly, and exaggeratedly pantomimed taking a deep breath.  She then held her fist out towards him, waiting for him to do the same.  When he did, she blew it up and laughed.

"What is she doing?" one of Oikawa's fangirls asked.

"Giving me a heart attack," muttered Shimada, who was trying again to stop himself from grabbing the girl and pulling her back from the railing.

Takinoue laughed.  "She's supporting her team, ladies.  She's their manager."

Suga's presence on the court almost immediately changed Karasuno's mood.  He had an almost magical (and...just a little bit painful) way of lifting the spirits of his teammates, and with the change of setter, Karasuno's attack pattern changed too.  But the change came too late to affect the outcome.  Aoba Johsai took the first set, beating Karasuno by a full 10 points.  "DON'T MIND!!!  WE GOT THE NEXT ONE!!" Nakano called to her team.  But to win it, she worried, this is going to have to be a three-set match.  

Coach kept the line up the same for the second set, and Nakano had her eyes bouncing between the two setters.  Tobio seems to be watching carefully, she thought, and he doesn't look upset anymore.  Good!  Suga's great...he can learn a lot from watching him deal with an actual game.  The team was obviously settling into a good groove now.  The point gap was much smaller, and both Karasuno's attacks and defense were working a lot better.

But Sugawara would be the first to tell you he's not as technically gifted a setter as Kageyama.  Soon, Aoba Johsai learned Suga's patterns and began to successfully predict where he would be sending the ball.  Kageyama was headed back onto the court.  "SUGAWARA-SENPAI!!!!  GREAT JOB!!"  Nakano yelled.  "KAGEYAMA!!!  YOU GOT THIS!!"  As soon as he stepped on the court, Kageyama looked up at Nakano and held out his fist.  She laughed as they blew them up again.  She could tell almost at once that Kageyama had paid close attention to Suga's performance as setter.  He was talking to his teammates more, even Tsukishima.  Karasuno's performance continued to improve as Kageyama meshed with his team.  They took the second set, 25 to 23.

"THAT'S IT GUYS!! ONE MORE!!  WE CAN DO THIS!!!"

The third set was just as close, and even more brutal.  Halfway along, both teams were showing signs of incredible exhaustion.  Nakano drained bottle after bottle of water, trying to keep her voice strong as she shouted encouragement to her team.  Hinata flew like a madman around the court.  Kageyama pushed himself to the limit.  Nishinoya lived up to his name as the Guardian Deity of Karasuno.  But when Yamaguchi got called in as pinch server, Nakano's breath caught.  She looked at Shimada, who was crouched down, hiding, and terrified.

She leaned over the railing again.  "YAMAGUUUUCHI!!  NICE SERVE!!!"

Yamaguchi looked up at her.  I can't do this, he thought.  I'm not ready.  I'm just supposed to be here for encouragement.  I should be up there with Nakano!

His teammates on the sidelines caught his attention.

They were doing...some kind of kick line?

Encouraging him.  

They all did that for me, Yamaguchi thought.  Well, then I gotta do this for them.

Nakano watched as the boys on the sidelines formed a kick line of sorts and gave Yams a big cheer.  Her smile could barely be contained on her face.  "WOOHOOO!!!  AWESOME GUYS!!! GO YAMS!!!"

He gave it his best shot.

And hit the net.  Much too low, the ball fell on Karasuno's side.

His one shot resulted in a service error.  But somehow, Yamaguchi's effort brought new life to the tired boys still on the court.  They fought on.  They fought to a deuce.  They fought past 30 points.  But finally, Aoba Johsai scored twice in a row.  

Karasuno lost the third set 33 - 31.

Nakano felt hot tears begin to roll down her cheeks.  She dashed them away, heading downstairs to be with her team, and help Kiyoko get everything ready for them to go home.

The interhigh preliminaries were over for them.

🏐🏐🏐

It took a while, but finally, everything was packed up.  Coach Ukai declared he would take the team to dinner.  As they headed for the bus, Nakano realized the bag with the team's water bottles was missing.  Too deep in her own thoughts to realize what might happen, she simply turned around and headed back into the building, quite sure she knew where the bag was. 

It took her only a few moments to retrieve it.  Heading back towards the bus, she walked along the front of the building.  As she passed by the corner, a hand reached out and pulled her around the side of the building, pushing her against the wall.  Her wheelchair and bags were left behind as Oikawa slapped his hand to the wall, keeping Nakano in place.

"Ah my lovely little fallen queen.  You must be soooo disappointed in your little crows...having their wings clipped like this.  Soooo sad."  Oikawa smirked at her.

"You beat us today," Nakano said in a calm voice, "but it took you everything you had, didn't it?  It was no easy win.  And next time, we will take your team down, Oikawa.  Mark my words.  We're not finished yet."  She moved opposite his arm, trying to get away from him.  He slammed his other hand to the wall, trapping her.

"But oh, the humiliation you've suffered today," he tossed his hair, his eyes sparkling.  "Your first attempt at being involved in volleyball again gone so wrong.  How will you live with yourself?  You've managed to destroy another team, haven't you?  And your poor dear Tobio...defeated utterly.  What will you say to him now?  I crushed him just as I always said I would.  And you..." Oikawa leaned in towards her. "You helped me along the way, didn't you, little queen.  Poor, poor little Naka-chan..."

At Karasuno's bus, Tsukishima was the first to notice something was wrong.  "Hey," he said as he boarded the bus, last of the players to do so. "Where's Nakano?"

"WHAT?" Kageyama jumped up from his seat.  

A quick look around the area confirmed it - she was not in the vicinity of the bus.  "The water bottle bag is missing...maybe she went to get it," Kiyoko offered.

"Let's check around for her," Coach Ukai said.  "Ginger, go back inside to the court area and retrace our steps to here.  Take Kageyama with you.  Tanaka, you and Nishinoya go around the outside of the building in case she got turned around.  Ennoshita, take Kiyoko and have her check the ladies' rooms.  The rest of us will wait here in case she shows up."

"If you find her, hit the group chat," Kageyama said as he left the bus with Hinata.

The other four followed the first-year pair towards the building.  Ennoshita and Kiyoko headed inside along with Kageyama and Hinata, while Tanaka and Noya started making their way around the building.  

"Hey!" Noya pointed to the far edge of the wall, "is that Nakano's wheelchair on the ground there?"  The two ran over to the object.  As Tanaka picked up the wheelchair and placed the scattered bags on the seat, they both heard a familiar sound.

CRACK!

They rushed around the corner to see Nakano pinned to the wall by Oikawa, his face turned to the side thanks to the stinging slap she'd clearly just given him.

"That's for calling me Naka-chan again!" she yelled. "And this..." Nakano punched Oikawa in the stomach.  The brown-haired setter crumpled to the ground.  "...is for what you did to Tobio."  Her voice was now a low growl.  "My team are my family.  Only they can call me Naka-chan.  And don't you ever dare threaten my family again."  She turned to retrieve her things, only to be stopped short by Tanaka and Noya grabbing her into a huge hug.  "Naka-chan!" they both yelled.  

"Boy am I glad you're safe!" Noya cried.

Tanaka looked down at Oikawa.  "Also, remind me never to piss you off."

Nakano looked down at Oikawa as well.  "Goodbye, Crappykawa.  I look forward to seeing Shiratorizawa defeat you...again."

The trio walked away from the groaning captain of Seijoh.  "Yeah, never pissing you off," said Tanaka.

🏐🏐🏐

The story of Nakano's second encounter with Oikawa was quickly shared on the bus.  Everyone was still in too much shock from the loss to really react.  Only Takeda-sensei spoke up.

"While I can't condone such violence in general, it certainly seems you were justified in defending yourself in this case," he said to her.  In a much quieter tone, he said, "He didn't...take any liberties, did he?"

Nakano raised her eyes to Takeda, they were filled with a mix of sadness and anger.  "No, sir.  If he had, I'd've hit him a bit lower down on his body."  Takeda blushed and resumed his seat.

"Nope, never ever pissing her off," Noya whispered.

After a very quiet bus ride, the team all settled in at a restaurant, sharing a long table which was piled high with excellent looking food.  Coach Ukai encouraged them all to eat.  Nakano found herself sitting between Noya and Tsukishima, and across from Daichi and Suga.  As the boys began to slowly eat, she simply stared at the food in front of her.  I did nothing, she thought.  I have no right to any of this.  They're the ones who worked so hard, who came so close.  He was right, I've brought them nothing of any value.   She looked at her team and saw most of them beginning to cry.   Her eyes closed and she dropped her head down, trying to hide the fact that tears were also beginning to form in her eyes. Dammit, she thought, so weak.  I will not cry.  

"Naka-chan," Tsukki said softly.  

Nakano looked up to see Noya, Suga, Daichi, and Tsukki all putting food onto the plate in front of her.  "Eat," said Suga, his voice barely above a whisper.  "Please," added Noya, his voice breaking a little.  

Nakano dashed her hand across her eyes and picked up her chopsticks.  Slowly, she lifted her head and began to eat.  She held back the tears.  She would be strong for her team.  It was the only thing left that she could do.

🏐🏐🏐

At long last, the day was over.  Nakano, Tsukishima, and Yamaguchi were walking home in silence.  Tsukishima had his headphones on.  They stopped at the crossroads where Yamaguchi would turn to leave them.

"Goodnight, guys," Yams whispered as he turned to go.

Nakano stopped him, placing a hand on his shoulder.  "You did great out there today."

Tears quickly sprang to Yamaguchi's eyes.  "Nakano, I did nothing besides embarrass myself."

"Wrong, Yams," Nakano said, "You gave it your best shot under almost impossible circumstances.  Your serve might not have cleared the net, but your courage gave new life to your team when they really needed it.  You did exactly what you needed to do."  The two locked eyes.  "And next time, you won't miss."

Yamaguchi froze for a moment, then suddenly pulled his friend into a hug.  "Thanks, Naka-chan," he whispered.  "You're welcome, Tadashi," she replied.  

"Hey," Tsukishima said, placing his hand on his friend's shoulder when he turned away yet again. "See you tomorrow."  Tadashi nodded firmly. "Mhmm," was all he said, with a small smile.  He headed off, leaving the other two to complete their journey home.

They walked slowly, in silence, for some time.  Tsukishima took off his headphones.

"You're really good at that," Tsukishima said.

"Hmmm?" Nakano asked vaguely.

"Encouraging people.  You really are good at it."

"Thanks," she replied, her tone flat.

Tsukishima stared at the girl.  Something is very not right here, he thought.  After a moment, he had a chilling thought.  He stopped in his tracks, but the girl didn't notice and kept walking.

"Nakano!"  His voice was sharp.

"Huh?" She turned around to look at him.

"Did he touch you?  Did he hurt you?"  She looked confused.  "Oikawa!"

She sighed and lowered her eyes.  She shook her head no.  He closed the gap between them.  "Tell me.  Tell me what he did."

She sighed again.  "Nothing like what you're thinking Tsukishima. The wounds are old, and mental, not physical.  All he did was bring them all back up again.  It's nothing I haven't dealt with before."  She continued walking.

He followed, brow furrowed with concern.  She is really upset, he thought, much more upset than she is letting on.  I've got a really bad feeling about this.

They got to his street, and Nakano turned to cross over the opposite way from Tsukishima's house.  "I'll see you tomorrow," she said, her voice thick, "thanks for walking with me."

"Wait, where are you going?  Your house is that way," he said, pointing up the street.

She kept her face turned away.  "There's a park a couple of blocks over.  I'm going to go there for a while.  You go home and get some rest."

"But it's late.  I can't let you go to a park alone."

"Yes you can.  I'll be fine."

"Why won't you go home?  You can always sit outside in your yard, if you want."

"I can't.  My mother...doesn't handle it well when I'm upset."  Her voice cracked.  He could hear her grind her teeth together.  She headed towards the park, moving as quickly as she could.  "Goodnight, Tsukki," she said roughly.

He watched her go for a few moments.  Then he followed her, keeping her in sight, but giving her space.

She made her way to the park, settling down on a swing.  He approached slowly, not sure what to do.  I think she's crying.  He sat down on the swing next to her.

"Please, Tsukki.  Go home."  At the sound of her voice, he knew she was crying, and desperately trying to hold it back.  

"No."

"Please," her voice was a shaky whisper now, "Please, just go home."

"Why?"

"B-b-because I...d-d-don't want you...t-t-to see me...like this,"  He could see the tears dripping from her face, and she was no longer able to keep control of her voice.  If she were alone, he thought, she'd be a complete blubbering mess.  Maybe I should just go.  But he didn't move.

"There's no shame in crying.  Most of the team lost it over dinner.  I mean, it's just a game.  We lost.  It happens.  If you need to cry it out, just go ahead.  But I'm not going to leave you alone in a park where anything could happen to you, especially if you're not very aware of your surroundings."

"So...w-w-weak.  Swore I'd never...be weak again,"  She was breaking down now into great sobs.  She turned away as far as she could, covering her face.  She broke down completely, muffling her sobs with her hands and shaking uncontrollably.  He watched over her and let her cry.  I am not the best person for this, he thought.  But even if I tried to comfort her right now, I'd don't think she'd let me.  He waited for the worst of her sobs to subside before speaking again.

"What's really going on here?  This is more than being upset that we lost.  What happened between you and Oikawa?"

She took a deep breath.  "You don't like Tobio," she said softly.

"That's no secret.  I hate arrogant assholes who think they know better than everyone else."

"He's not really like that.  He became like that because Oikawa manipulated him.  And Oikawa used me to get to him.  If I had been stronger..." Her voice, which had been soft, suddenly tore from her throat, "IF I HADN'T BEEN SO DAMN WEAK, TOBIO WOULDN'T HAVE BEEN SUCH AN EASY TARGET!" She broke down in sobs again.  "He would never have become the King of the Court," she said when she could speak again, "He might even have been able to bring the team to victory today."

"What do you mean, Oikawa used you?"

"Tobio and I became fast friends thanks to being in the same boat - first year 'genius' setters.  Oikawa was jealous.  We took the spotlight from him.  So he vowed to get even by breaking us both."

"Wait a minute...he didn't...cause your accident, did he?"

"No.  He was much more subtle.  Within a month of my arrival at Kitagawa First, my team dubbed me the Queen of the Court.  He swooped in and became my King.  I was all of 12.  And here was this handsome, older boy, telling me how beautiful and perfect I was, how we were the perfect couple, and making me feel like a queen indeed.  I was so easy to ensnare.  Pathetically weak.  I fell for everything he said," she snarled out, clenching her hands into fists. "Tobio and I were best friends.  Oikawa told me he wanted to take Tobio under his wing, teach him everything he knew.  I believed him.  So whenever he asked me anything about Tobio, I told him.  I wasn't about to keep anything secret from my own boyfriend," her voice was a sneer.  The words were now tumbling out of her, almost as if they had a life of their own.  Tsukishima wondered if she even realized he was still listening.  "I gave him everything.  All of Tobio's weaknesses, faults, and fears.  I gave him all the weapons he needed.  And then, when the accident..."  She suddenly sucked in a sharp breath, eyes widened with pain, as if she was experiencing it all over again.  She looked at Tsukishima.  Why am I even telling him this?  I'm sure he'll enjoy using this as fodder for more teasing.  The great Queen breaking down and sobbing like a baby.  I'm such a pathetic bitch.

There's more, he thought, but that's as far as she can go right now.  I need to snap her out of this headspace she's trapped in.  "You really are a selfish bitch after all."

She stared at him, eyes wider than he'd ever seen them.  She fell off the swing on to the ground.

"Do you honestly think Kageyama would blame you for any of this?  Oikawa sounds like one of hell of a manipulative bastard.  Like you said, you were 12.  Of course you told your boyfriend everything.  Quit blaming yourself for things that weren't totally in your control."

She continued to stare.  The pain and fear and self-loathing Tsukishima saw in her eyes made him nervous.  How do I get her to see the truth here?  Her eyes right now...they scare me.  They look like she'd be capable of doing...anything.  To herself.

"Look, the King may not be my favorite person, but one thing I can see is how much you mean to him.  When he says you're like his sister, he means it.  He would never blame you for any of that stuff, especially since he knows what Oikawa is like.  Whatever happened in middle school, happened.  But it has no meaning to the here and now.  What happened today is that we went up against a strong opponent, and we got close, but in the end they beat us.  End of story.  So quit being so selfish and let it go.  It isn't your fault.  And you've got a responsibility to the team.  We need you.  Tomorrow, we start over again.  And I should hope by now you realize that we want you to be part of that.  All of us." Even me, he thought.  

Her eyes filled with tears again.  She let them fall, crying quietly this time.  He watched as the tears seemed to carry away some of the negative emotions from her.  I think maybe the worst is over, he thought.  She's held this in for a long time, and I get the feeling this is only a part of it.  What really happened to her?  he wondered.  Well, that's for another time.  She's had more than enough for today.  And so have I.  I think maybe...she might let me now...

Tsukishima rummaged in his bag, finally pulling out a handkerchief.  He handed it to the crying girl on the ground.  "Here.  Dry your eyes, and blow your nose."

She complied.  "I'm sorry," she said, her throat sounding raw.  "I don't know why I dumped all that on you."

"Blow your nose again."

She did as she was told.  "Why?"

He offered her his hand and helped her up.  "Because I don't want to get your snot all over me."

"What?"

Once she was on her feet, he gently pulled her into a hug.  "How long has it been since you cried like this?  Since you let any of it out?"

Her voice, when it finally came, was very quiet.  "A long time."  He stopped talking and just held her.  She was cold all over, as if her outburst had drained the heat from her body.  Slowly, she relaxed, taking in his warmth.  She was tall for a girl, 5' 7"...almost 5'8".  But that still put him a good 6 inches taller.  She rested her head against his chest, hearing his heartbeat, strong and steady.  He let his head tip down to her hair.  She smells like roses, he thought.  He held her like that, until she finally let out a long sigh.  Then, he kissed the top of her head.

"Encouragement kiss," he said, and she could hear the smile in his voice.  She chuckled.

"Feel ready to go home now?" he asked.

"Yeah, I think so."

They walked toward her house, silence once again filling the space around them.  About halfway there, she asked him.  "Tsukishima?  Why?"

He shrugged.  "Honestly, I don't know.  I'm usually not this nice."  She chuckled again.  "Seriously," he said, "I just...couldn't leave you like that.  I wasn't kidding when I said we need you."

"Thanks.  If I'd gone home in that state...things would have been bad.  My mom just doesn't know what to do when I'm like that."

They arrived at Nakano's gate.  "You'll be okay?"

"Yeah.  Get home safe, alright?  And...thanks again."

"Don't mention it.  Seriously, you tell anyone I was nice to you and I'll deny it."

She chuckled again.  "Goodnight, Tsukki."

"Goodnight, Nakano."

Tsukishima walked home, his mind in turmoil.  Questions filled him, each one more difficult to ponder than the last.  But one thought kept intruding itself over and over again as he replayed what happened in his mind. 

It's not just that the team needs her, he thought.  I think maybe...it's that I need her.

Chapter Text

Nakano woke up the next morning and groaned.  Ugh, she thought, this must be what it feels like to wake up with a hangover.  Except I didn't get to have the fun part of enjoying myself with my inhibitions down.  Her head was pounding thanks to all the crying she had done the night before.  Crying.  In front of Tsukishima.  Pouring out way too much of her internal troubles.

I guess my inhibitions were down, she realized.  Why?  What the heck happened there?  Was it just that it had gotten too bad and I couldn't hold back anymore?  My intention had been to just loop around to the park after Tsukki and I parted ways, though.  Why did I even mention it to him?  Did...did some part of me want him to be there?

She thought about what he'd said to her after her spill about Oikawa's manipulations.  He's right, I was being selfish.  I've made a commitment to this team, and I intend to see it through.  And I neither make nor break this team...otherwise it wouldn't be much of a team.  I wish things had been different in middle school, but they weren't.  And he's probably right about Tobio too.  I should talk to him about it.  She chuckled.  Tsukki and Tobio are actually a lot alike.  I think maybe that's why they don't get along so well most of the time.

Her thoughts drifted to what he did afterwards.  He was so warm.  And surprisingly gentle.  Not at all what she expected from the young man whose contact name in her phone was 'Salty Ass'.  He seemed to know just what to say and do, and when to say and do them.  Thinking back on it, she could feel the lingering sensation of his arms, just quietly holding her.  And his little 'encouragement kiss' on the top of her head.  She found herself wishing she could feel those sensations again.  What the heck is happening?  She sighed.  Maybe I need a good hot shower.  

Nakano began to get ready for school, trying to think about something other than Tsukishima and the events of last night.  She'd had a disturbing realization upon arriving home and talking with her mother.  She thought back through that conversation.  

Thanks to her time in the park with Tsukki, she'd been able to go home and face talking to her mom.  She'd still been sad, of course, but the overwhelming sense of failure and despair she'd been carrying was gone.  She knew if her mom had seen that, there would have been a disaster...probably involving a trip to the hospital, Amalie and maybe even her Dad being forced to come home to deal with her.  If nothing else, I owe Tsukishima for helping me avoid all that.  Her mom had guessed the most basic part as soon as she'd walked in the door.

"Oh, Naka-chan...your team lost, didn't they?"

"Yeah."

"I'm so sorry, honey,"  her mom caught her into a hug.  Nakano waited patiently for her mom to release her.  She'd never felt very close to her mom.  It had always been Mom and Amalie, Dad and Nakano.  She loved her mom of course, but, she never felt like her mom really understood her the way her dad did.  After a while, her mom asked, "Does this mean your season is over already?"

"No, there's another tournament in the Spring that we will participate in..."

And then she'd realized it.  The third years often left their clubs before the spring season to focus on their college entrance exams.  The team going on without Kiyoko, Asahi, Daichi and Suga?  She had this knot in the pit of her stomach when she thought about it.  Coach Ukai had given them the entire day off today.  So it might well be tomorrow before she would find out what the third years planned to do.

She showered, dressed, and ate.  It all seemed odd.  Usually there was morning practice, and often before that she'd get up early to exercise or run.  It felt weird to be leaving her house so late.  Maybe I'll run into Tsukki on the way in, she thought.  I'm feeling like I could use another hug.  She packed her things and headed out.

Tsukishima was deeply grateful that there was no morning practice today.  He needed the extra time in bed, as he'd not been able to fall asleep for quite some time last night.  His mind had been filled with questions.  Questions...and random thoughts.  He tried pushing them all away using music, but every song he played somehow brought her back to his mind.  In the end, he'd lain in bed for almost 3 hours before he finally fell asleep from sheer exhaustion.  

And as he awakened to the sound of his alarm, his first thought was of her.  Roses, he thought sleepily, she smelled like roses.  I like roses.  The thoughts registered on his waking mind, and he groaned.  Shower.  I need a shower, and I need to get some perspective.

As he went about his morning routine, Tsukishima considered the events of yesterday.  The loss to Aoba Johsai was crappy, sure, but it was just another game.  Honestly, he thought, who really had believed we could beat Seijoh.  They're a powerhouse.  Frankly, it was surprising we took a set from them, and forced the third set into the thirties.  

Nakano believed it.  The thought wandered through his mind unbidden.  Right up until that last ball hit on our side of the court.  He shook his head.  Ugh, shut up.  This is becoming some kind of obsession.  He cleared his mind and tried to focus on getting ready for the day.

His mind wandered to her again, seeing her sob so desperately.  She's carrying a lot of pain inside her, he thought.  I'm pretty sure last night only scratched the surface.  His body recalled the feeling of holding her, feeling her finally relax into his embrace.  Her hair was so soft when he'd kissed the top of her head.  He stared into his face in the mirror, seeing way more depth behind his eyes than he usually did.  Stop it, he thought, quit romanticizing this.  Nakano is a friend and teammate.  She was having a really bad time yesterday, so I helped her out and made sure she was safe.  Nothing more.  She'd do the same for me if she saw that I was having a bad time.  That's it.  Done.  Put it out of your mind and focus on what's ahead.

He finished his morning routine and gathered his things together.  As he packed his bento, he noticed the strawberry shortcake his mom had gotten, hoping to celebrate his team's victory.  Well, he thought, since we can't celebrate our victory, we might as well console ourselves instead.  He packed three pieces of the cake to share with Nakano and Yamaguchi. 

Once he had everything together, he slipped his headphones on and walked briskly to the corner.  He paused there, looking up and down the street.  I wonder why I don't ever see her on her way in to school, he mused.  Does she take a different route?  Damn, he thought, gritting his teeth, enough.  I'm just going to walk to...

Motion caught his eye.  She was walking towards him.  She waved.  He waited, taking off his headphones.

"Morning, Tsukki," she said as she approached.  

"Hey, Nakano," he said as he fell in step beside her, "everything go okay with your mom?"

She blushed.  "Yes, thank you," she reached into her jacket pocket and pulled out his handkerchief.  "Here you go, all clean again."  

"Thanks."  They walked in silence for a time.  Tsukishima looked at the girl beside him.  She still seemed troubled, but not in the same way as she'd been last night.  What's on her mind now?  He grimaced, and made a decision.  The hell with it, he thought, for once, I'm just going to go ahead and ask.  "All right, let's hear it."

"What?"

"What's on your mind?  It's written all over your face that something is bothering you."

"Sorry.  I'm just worried about the third years, you know?  What if they choose to leave the club?  I mean, they've got college entrance exams to worry about.  And what if they feel like it's time for them to move on and leave the club to the younger members?  I...I don't want to lose anyone from this team.  And there's no practice today, so we won't see them, and I don't know how to stop worrying about this."  I'm babbling, she thought, why am I babbling?  It's just Tsukishima.  Why do I feel like I need to spill all the thoughts in my head at him?

He sighed.  "You're doing it again."

"What?"

"Worrying about things you don't control."

She started, staring at him for a moment.  Then she softly chucked.  "You're right.  I guess I am."

"You're just going to have to find a way to set it aside.  There's no point in letting yourself get all worked up about it.  It's just a club.  Whatever happens, we'll deal with it, and it will be fine,"  he glanced at her, a small smirk forming on his lips.  "Or are you just fishing for another hug?"

She gave him a small smile.  "Not gonna lie, that hug was the best I've felt in the last twelve hours or so."  His eyes widened slightly.  Should I hug her again?  Wait, what?  What am I thinking here?  Do I want to hug her again?  How does she do this to me?  Why did I even say that?  His racing thoughts stopped as she let out a long sigh.  "Thanks, Tsukki.  I owe you one after all this."

"Really?  I'll start considering what I want in return then."

She chuckled.  "Well, now I'm nervous."

He smiled softly to himself.  

🏐🏐🏐

The three friends sat on the rooftop, leaning against the sun-warmed half wall around the perimeter of the roof.  The day seemed to drag, and when lunchtime finally came they couldn't wait to get out of their classroom.  Lunch had been shared mostly in silence, each of the three of them lost in their own thoughts.  

Finally Nakano gave a loud groan and fell sideways, her head landing on Tsukishima's arm.  "I can't take this!  I feel stuck, and I absolutely hate feeling stuck."  

Yamaguchi looked at the pair, feeling a small tickle of happiness that his normally salty friend was simply allowing the girl to rest against him.  "What do you mean by stuck?" he asked.

"Stuck.  I feel like I can't move forward.  We lost, and it sucks, but you were right, Tsukki.  It happened, it's over, and now we have to figure out what to do next.  But there's no practice today.  So nothing will happen at least until tomorrow.  And what if the third years don't decide right away?  How long are we gonna be stuck like this, waiting?  If I've got to go through this for another whole day, I'm gonna go nuts.  I hate feeling like this, it makes me..."

"Oh my gosh do you always babble like this when you're 'stuck'?"  Tsukishima complained.

Nakano stopped and stared up at him.  "Actually, no," she whispered, sounding shocked. "Usually, when I feel stuck, I withdraw and don't say much of anything to anybody."  Tsukishima looked down at her with a smirk.  That's twice today I've just starting pouring my thoughts out at him, Nakano thought.  What the hell?  

"Sit up."  Tsukishima ordered.  Nakano complied, and the blonde reached into his bag and pulled out three small containers.  "Here," he said, "eat this instead of talking."

Yamaguchi opened his first.  "Hey, strawberry shortcake!  Thanks, Tsukki."

Nakano's blue eyes, which had been duller than the boys had ever seen them, began to sparkle a little.  "Ooooh, really?  I love strawberry shortcake!"  She eagerly opened the container and quickly took a bite.  "Mmmmmmmmmm," Nakano scrunched her face up with pleasure at the taste of the cake.  Tsukishima was making an almost identical face next to her. Yamaguchi laughed aloud.

"What?" the pair said simultaneously, causing Yamaguchi to laugh even more.  Tsukishima and Nakano looked at each other in confusion.

"Well," Yamaguchi said chuckling, "that's something else the two of you definitely have in common.  You both absolutely love strawberry shortcake.  You both make the same face when you eat it."  Yamaguchi stood up.  "I don't know about you guys, but I like milk with my cake.  I'm going to get some from the vending machine - you guys want any?"  Both his friends had their mouths full of cake again and just shook their heads no.  "Okay," he said, chuckling at them again, "be right back."  He headed down at a jog.

Tsukishima and Nakano sat in silence, both concentrating on their cake.  When they had both finished, Nakano smiled at Tsukishima.  "Thanks, that was really delicious.  And I'm sorry about babbling."

He put the containers back in his bag and smirked at her again.  "If you want another hug that badly, you could just ask for one."

She laughed.  "And have to owe you twice?  I don't think so."  

She looked into his face to find his expression unreadable.  Suddenly, his arm was around her shoulders, gently pulling her in to lean on him again.  "This one's on me," he said softly, putting his chin on her head.  There it is, he thought as he took in a breath.  Roses. 

The two sat up properly again at the sound of the rooftop door opening.  Yamaguchi stepped out, almost certain he'd seen Tsukki remove his arm from around Nakano.  Certainly both of them seemed to have a little pink across their faces.   Perfect, he thought, exactly what I'd hoped would happen when I left them alone.  If I know Tsukki, we're going to be having a little talk in the near future.  He smiled as he walked over to his friends.  "Finished your cakes already?  I guess that's no surprise."  He sat down again to enjoy his cake.  "You know, I was thinking...I know there's no practice today, but why don't we just go to the gym after school anyway?  We can...I don't know...just play volleyball.  I bet some of the others will show up too.  Maybe that will help you feel better, Nakano."

She laughed.  "I'll bet anything Shoyo and Kags will show up."

"Ugh, wonderful," Tsukishima rolled his eyes, "that will be so much fun."

Nakano pushed him sideways.  "Shut up, it's better than going home and moping around for the whole evening.  I'm in, Yams."

"Tsukki?" Yamaguchi asked.

He clicked his tongue.  "Whatever.  I've got nothing else to do today."

Yamaguchi and Nakano looked at each other and laughed at Tsukishima's ringing endorsement of the idea.  

🏐🏐🏐

In the end, the entire team showed up at the gym, even Coach Ukai.  Nakano thought her heart would burst as the third years entered the gym.  They'd chosen to stay.  All of them.  They would go on together, with the goal of making it to Nationals.  Nakano felt as if a great weight had been lifted off her chest.  It felt good to have a goal to focus on again.  The day had wound down to an end, and now she was lying in bed, opening up the group chat.

Badass Setter
Okay I'm just gonna say it.  I AM SO GLAD THE THIRD YEARS ARE STAYING!!!

Sunshine
ME TOO!

Badass Setter
Woah, where did this name come from?

Guardian Deity
You. Are. BADASS.  Just sayin Naka-chan.

Suga
No way we could leave now.  We're just getting started.

Beanpole
Noya-senpai, what makes you think Nakano is such a badass?

Guardian Deity
You didn't see the way she laid out Oikawa.

Tanaka
Seriously dude.  Don't piss her off.

Bakayama
Okay I was originally gonna rename her again but you guys are right.  Don't piss her off.  Treat her like your little sister.

Badass Setter
Suga, save me from these lunatics.

Suga
Sorry, Nakano, you're on your own.  Apparently you've manage to flip your reputation like 180 degrees in one day.

Badass Setter
What do you mean?

Suga
Well, as I recall, prior to this they named you Encouragement Kisser and everyone on the team was hoping to get a kiss from you.  Kind of like the team sweetheart.

Bakayama
WHAT?

Suga
Relax Kageyama.  I meant that in the nicest way possible.  A sweet, not at all naughty kind of way.  Really.

Guardian Deity
Nakano is our team sweetheart!  And she's also a badass.

Guardian Deity changed Badass Setter's name to Badass Sweetheart

Badass Sweetheart changed Suga's name to Team Sweetheart

Badass Sweetheart
Sorry Suga, I think you fit the role of Team Sweetheart better than I do.

Ace
Why is it that every time I read this thing I get both confused and embarrassed?

Badass Sweetheart
Because you Ace are the team Teddy Bear.

Badass Sweetheart changed Ace's name to Teddy Bear

Team Sweetheart
Aaaaaannnnd Asahi is blushing again, if I know him.

Sunshine
So what did Nakano do to the Great King again?

Tanaka
Slapped him!  And punched him right in the gut!  Laid the man OUT.  TOTAL. BADASS.

Sunshine
Wow.  I hope you didn't really hurt him, Nakano.

Badass Sweetheart
Don't worry, Shoyo.  I'm not as much of a badass as Noya-senpai and Tanaka-senpai think.  Oikawa's a drama queen.  Besides, Shiratorizawa hurt him far worse than I did.  AGAIN.  Heh heh heh.

Bakayama
He got what he deserved.  

Team Sweetheart
Well, from what I've heard, a whole lot of girls would pay cash money to have Oikawa kabedon them like he did to you, Nakano.

Badass Sweetheart
They can have him.  Hell, I'll pay them to take him.  

Captain
Okay guys, I think that's enough.

Badass Sweetheart
O CAPTAIN! MY CAPTAIN!

Bakayama
What?

Captain
Nakano?  Oh wait...that's a poem, isn't it?

Badass Sweetheart
Yes.  But I am also really glad you're still our captain.  

Team Sweetheart
Hear hear!

Teddy Bear
I'll agree with that one.

Sunshine
I was so worried you guys wouldn't stay!  It wouldn't be the same without you!

Nakano muted the group chat, hoping to avoid further discussion of Oikawa.  All she wanted to do right now was put all of that behind her and look ahead.  But there was one thing she felt like she needed to do to put all of that to rest.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey Tobio-chan!

My Big Bro 🤗
Hey.  You okay?

Queen Setter 🏐
Well, I am now that I know the third years are staying.  

My Big Bro 🤗
I meant about what happened in the group chat.  Did they upset you?

Queen Setter 🏐
Not really.  I know they mean well.  It's fine. 

My Big Bro 🤗
So are you you telling me or convincing yourself?

Queen Setter 🏐
Not saying.  Look, I wanted to ask - wanna hang out on Sunday?  There's no practice and I'd like to get to spend a little time with my best friend.

My Big Bro 🤗
Depends.  Will you tell me the truth about what you're feeling about Oikawa and all that?  I'm pretty sure you're upset by it.

Queen Setter 🏐
Yes okay.  Telling you something about all of that is kinda why I want to get together.  Plus I do like spending time with you.  

My Big Bro 🤗
Okay then.  Sunday it is.  You gonna be okay until then?

Queen Setter 🏐
You bet.  Thanks Tobio-chan. 💕

My Big Bro 🤗
🤗💕

Nakano unmuted the group chat and caught up.  They had moved on to talking about how the team was like a family, and everyone's name had been changed to reflect their place in it.  She chuckled and was about to set her phone aside when another notification popped up.

Salty Ass 🧂
Still awake?

Queen Setter 🏐
Yep.  Have you decided how I shall repay your kindness to me?

Salty Ass 🧂
Not yet.  But there is something you can do for me right now.

Queen Setter 🏐
Oh? That's not sketchy.  😏  What is it?

Salty Ass 🧂
Can you come outside to your backyard?

What the hell?  Nakano yanked a pair of sweatpants on and looked out her window.  Sure enough, there was Tsukishima, sitting on the same bench they'd shared during the great soda war.  Unbelievable.  What is it with boys and backyards at night?  She slid her window open and slipped out into the yard.

"Hey," he said.

She sat down next to him.  "You're in my backyard in the middle of the night and all I get is a 'hey'?" She looked at him with amusement.

"I didn't realize it would be so easy for you to get out here."

"Yeah.  My bedroom is on the first floor so I don't have deal with the stairs."

He looked at her quizzically.  He knew full well she could handle stairs.  She sighed.  "My mom...worries about me a lot."

He nodded.  She looked into his eyes.  Thanks to the Full Moon, she could see their lovely golden honey-brown color.  Dang, they really are so pretty.  But what's this all about?

"Tsukki, what's the matter?  Are you okay?"

He looked at her.  He really didn't know.  It was like his body just started moving on its own, taking him where it wanted to go.  His brain was still involved somewhat though, because it had been at least clever enough to come up with a cover story.

"Well, I thought a small celebration might be in order.  Now that you know the third years will be staying with us."  He opened up his bag and took out two small containers and two strawberry sodas.

Her eyes lit up, guessing what was in the containers.  But then she fixed him with a stare.

"You came here just to share strawberry shortcake and soda with me?  Come on Tsukki, are you sure everything is okay?"

He clicked his tongue and stood up.  "If you don't want it, I'll just take it home again."

She grabbed his arm and pulled him gently.  "No, I didn't mean it like that.  I'd love to share it with you - and thank you.  Please stay."

Please stay.  Why am I so happy she said that?  He sat back down and offered her the shortcake.   They both turned their attention to their favorite dessert.  "Mmmmmmm," Nakano hummed with pleasure for the second time that day, "this is so good...and so bad.  Two slices of strawberry shortcake in one day?  I'll have to run an extra mile tomorrow morning to make up for it."  She chuckled.

"Please.  With as hard as you push yourself, I don't think a second slice of cake is going make a difference." He paused and looked at her.  "Wait a minute...is that why I never see you on your way to school?  Do you run before school every day?"

She swallowed and deliberately did not meet his eyes.  "Uh...yeah?  Well, either a run, a therapy session, or a workout, pretty much every morning."

He closed his eyes and sighed.  "I give up.  Next time, I'm just going to bring you two slices of cake."  She laughed softly.

"This really is great.  Did your mom make it?"

"No, she usually gets them from this bakery near her work.  It's my favorite."

"Well, thank you for sharing it with me...again!  It's one of the better ones I've tasted."

"Have you ever had one you like better than this?"

She colored a little.  "Well, there is one that is my all time favorite."

"Oh?  Where from?"

Her blushed deepened.  "Um...actually...it's my grandmother's recipe.  I generally make it myself."

"Really?  Hmmm...maybe that will have to be part of your repayment to me."  He smirked at her.  "I think I'd like to try your homemade strawberry shortcake." 

"So you can make fun of my baking skills, I'm sure."  She chuckled.

"I'll be an honest and impartial judge.  I'm sure your baking skills are only moderately suckish."

She shoulder checked him as he laughed lightly, gathering up the two containers into his bag.  He opened the sodas and handed one to her.  She hesitated before taking it.

"No soda wars this time, right?"

He chuckled.  "Nope.  Full Moon truce."  She took the offered soda and he clinked their bottles together before sipping from his.

"Tsukki?"

"Yeah?"

"This is really nice.  But I'm a bit confused."

"Why?  What's so confusing about me wanting to share dessert with a friend?"

"A friend?"  She took a pull from her soda and looked him in the eyes.  "You consider us friends?"

"Yes.  Don't you?"

"Absolutely!  But...I know that's not a word you use a whole lot.  I mean...Yamaguchi is the only person I'd ever imagine you'd call a friend."

"Well, you're wrong.  I'd call you one too."

She colored again.  "I...uh...wow."

Now it was his turn to blush.  "It's not that big a deal."

"You're wrong this time, Tsukki.  I know you well enough to know you're not the kind who lets people in easily.  For you to call me your friend...well, I consider that something rather special indeed.  Thanks." 

He shoulder checked her this time.  "You're such an idiot sometimes," he said, smirking.

"Only sometimes?" she shot back.  "Damn, Noya's right, I am a badass.  First Tsukki calls me a friend, and then says I'm only an idiot sometimes.  I don't think I can handle this much praise from you in one day."  She chuckled at him.  He rolled his eyes and finished his soda.  She took the empty bottle from him.  "I'll take care of these.  It's getting late, and we both need some sleep.  Thanks for sharing this with me, Tsukki.  Get home safe, okay?"  They both stood.

He slung his bag on his shoulder, and looked down at the girl.  Nakano couldn't read the emotions she saw in his eyes, but he gave her a small smile.  "See you tomorrow, Naka-chan."  

Nakano climbed back into her window, and went to bed.  Well, she thought, this turned out to be a pretty amazing day.

🏐🏐🏐

Later that week, Tsukishima and Yamaguchi found themselves walking home alone, as Nakano had an afternoon medical appointment.  I'm guessing, thought Tadashi, that this walk home is going to take a little longer than usual.

"Hey Tadashi?"

"Yeah, Tsukki?"

"What do you think of Nakano?"  Yep, Yamaguchi thought, there it is.

"I think she's great, Tsukki.  She's smart, and kind, and fun, and really good at volleyball.  She's even sassy enough to deal with you," Yamaguchi chuckled.  "What do you think of her Tsukki?"

"Nothing."

"Tsukki, I know that's not true.  You think about her a lot.  So why don't you just tell me what you think of her?  That's why you brought this up, isn't it?"

"She's a good teammate."

Tadashi sighed.  You bring it up, he thought, and now I have to drag it out of you.  Okay, here we go.  "And?  I think she's more than just a teammate to you, Tsukki."

"Well, I guess I...consider her...a friend."

"Have you ever told her that?"

"Yeah.  The other night."

Tadashi looked at the blonde in total amazement.  "You did?"

"Yeah.  I...went to her house late one evening.  We talked in her backyard again."

"Tsukki...that's pretty cool."

They'd reached the street where they would normally separate.  Tsukishima looked at his best friend.  "Can you...spare a little more time?  I think I'd like to tell you about something."  Tadashi nodded, and the pair walked to the same park where Nakano had sobbed on him after the Seijoh match.  Sitting on a bench not far from those same swings, Tsukishima told Tadashi the basics of what happened that night.

"Wow...it sounds like she was really devastated.  I'm glad you stayed with her, Tsukki.  Anything might have happened if she'd been alone."

"Yeah.  Well...when she finally calmed down some...I...I...kinda...held...her..."

Yamaguchi cheered internally.

"...for a while."

"Well, that's good, Tsukki.  I bet she really needed that."

"I kissed the top of her head."

Yamaguchi fought the urge to pump his fist in the air.

"She smelled...like roses.  I like the smell of roses, you know."  Yamaguchi looked as his friends' face.  He seemed to be lost in the memory of that moment, a small smile on his lips.  

"Tsukki?"

"She was so tense.  But then...she kinda...slowly relaxed.  Like she sank into me a little.  It was...nice."

Oh wow, Yamaguchi thought.  He's really got it bad.  I wonder if he realizes it.  I wonder if he's ready to realize it.  

"It...uh...sounds like you were a really good friend to her."

"Yeah...friends."

"Do you think...maybe...you...uh...might feel like there's more to it than that?"

Tsukishima suddenly started out of his reverie.  "What?  No.  I don't know why I even brought this all up..."

"Tsukki!  What would be so bad if maybe you liked her?"

"Don't be an idiot Yamaguchi.  Why would I like her as anything other than a friend?  Ugh, why am I even talking about this with you."

"But you did, Tsukki.  You brought me here to talk about it.  So my guess is this all means something to you and you're trying to figure it out!  What's so bad about that?"

"You don't know what you're talking about.  I'm going home.  Nakano and I are friends and there's nothing else to it.  Goodnight, Tadashi."  He stood up and headed for his house.

"Promise me you'll at least think about it?"

"Shut up Yamaguchi."

"Sorry Tsukki."  Well, that could have gone better, he thought as he started off home.  At least he told her they are friends.  She's gotten inside those walls of yours, Tsukki.  And those feelings are not gonna go away.  You're gonna have to figure out what to do with them.

🏐🏐🏐

Sunday came around at last, and Kageyama invited Nakano to his house for lunch.  Afterwards, the two went outside to toss around a volleyball for awhile when Hinata came wandering by.  Tobio tried hiding but it was too late, Shoyo had seen the volleyball in the air.

"Hey Kageyama!" the ginger shouted out as he ran into the yard. "Oh, hey Nakano!  I didn't know you'd be visiting Kageyama today!  Cool!"

"What do you want, dumbass?" Kageyama growled.  Nakano just chuckled.

"Same as you.  Pass to me next!"

And so the three passed the volleyball around and chatted until Hinata got too jumpy.  After all, he had two setters in front of him and desperately needed to move around.

"Hey!  Toss to me guys!  I wanna spike!"  

"Dumbass, we don't even have a net." Kageyama said.  Nakano made a mental note never to tell Hinata she had a volleyball court in her backyard.  He'd be the next boy showing up randomly in her backyard in the middle of the night, texting her to come outside and toss for him.  She laughed aloud at the thought.

"What?" asked Kageyama. 

"Uh...here Shoyo, I'll toss one for you,"  Kageyama gave her a look.  "What?" she said, "why not?"  She set the ball for Hinata and he flew, slamming the ball back down.

"WOOOAAAH!"  He gushed, looking at his hand.  "Now you, Kageyama!"

They continued setting the ball for him, with Nakano even setting Kageyama up a time or two.  Suddenly, Hinata had another idea.

"Hey!  Set the ball for Nakano, Kageyama!  I bet she's a great spiker!"

Nakano chuckled.  "I can't, Shoyo.  I'm just not able to do that yet.  Plus I've got my braces on...I can't really jump in them."

"Awwwwww man!  But I bet you're so cool when you spike!  I really wanna see you do it!"

"Shut up, dumbass!  You're gonna make her feel bad!"  Kageyama threw the ball at Hinata's head, earning a yelp from the eager boy.

"Stop it, Kags,"  she was clearly giving the idea some thought.  "I have been doing a lot of jump training in therapy..."

"Naka-chan..." Kageyama almost growled, "don't you even think about getting yourself hurt just to make this lunatic happy."

She smiled and went into the house.  "Be right back!"

Hinata looked at Kageyama with sparkles in his eyes.  "Do you think she'd going to try to spike?"

Kageyama sighed.  "She might.  And if she gets hurt, I'm gonna throw you back to your house, understand?"

"Come on, Bakayama, Naka-chan is amazing!  I'm sure she's gonna do great!"

Kageyama rolled his eyes, and profoundly wished Nakano had never told the team they could call her Naka-chan.  

Nakano came back outside, moving a lot more freely.

"Naka-chan...are you sure about this?  Where did you leave your braces?"  Kageyama looked every bit the concerned older brother as he moved to grab her arm to help her walk.

"Deep breath, Kags.  I got this.  My braces are in your room.  If I can't land this, I promise, no more attempts.  I'll treat my legs and put my braces back on and be a good little sister, okay?"  She gave him her best smile, knowing he'd never be able to resist it.

He sighed, looking from her smile to Hinata's eager puppy face.  I'm doomed, he thought.  

"Fine.  One set.  And you don't need to use your full strength on this, okay?"  

"I wasn't going to...we are in your backyard, after all."

Hinata looked at the two of them.  "This is gonna be so awesome!"

Kageyama gave Nakano a moment to prepare, and then set the ball for her.  He and Hinata both watched as she made her approach and sprang into the air.  Her form is off, Kageyama thought, she's not done this in a long time.  His whole body tensed as he watched her landing, ready to move forward and grab her if she faltered.

Nakano readied herself, letting her mind go and allowing her body to take over.  There were no opponents or teammates to analyze, so she just gave herself the freedom to move.  As she began the approach, she could feel it wasn't right.  Too soon, she thought, this is gonna suck.  But she was already in motion.  

Hinata just watched as his pretty friend flew into the air and hit the volleyball.  She connected, but not with the strength he was expecting.  It was a hit, but a much softer one than he thought she'd do.  Still, it was fun to watch her fly.

She landed well, and smiled at Hinata.  And promptly started to fall.  Kageyama darted forward and caught her before she could fully hit the ground.  She looked at him with an apologetic face.  "Oops?" she said.  He glared at her.

"I'M SORRY!!" Hinata rushed over to grab Nakano's hand.  "I'm so sorry!  Are you hurt?  Should we take you to the hospital?  I never should have asked you to do this!  I'm a terrible friend!  Please forgive me Naka-chan!"

"SHOYO!"  Nakano yelled.  He yelped and looked at her with teary eyes.  "I'm fine.  It was just too soon.  My form was a mess, and I guess my legs still can't support me when I land from something like that.  There's nothing to forgive - it was my choice to try."  She blushed a little.  "I'm actually more embarrassed at the terrible quality of that hit.  Please don't tell the rest of the team, okay?"

"Oh he's not gonna say anything," Kageyama fixed Hinata with a terrifying smile. "Not a single word.  Right Hinata?  You're not gonna be able to say anything.  BECAUSE YOU'RE GONNA BE IN TRACTION AFTER I THROW YOU BACK TO YOUR HOUSE!"

Hinata shivered all over. "Aaaahhh...look at the time!  I gotta go place and do thing!  Bye!"  Shoyo took off running faster than Nakano had ever seen him go, even when he was racing Kageyama.

She looked at Tobio, who was still holding her.  "Why did you scare him, Tobio-chan?  It wasn't his fault."  The look he gave Nakano was only slightly less terrifying than the one he'd given Hinata.  "Uhhhh...you can let me go now, ya know."

"I don't think so." He scooped her up and carried her into the house, heading for his bedroom.

"Awww, Tobio-chan, I thought we'd already decided we weren't dating.  And here you are carrying me into your bedroom like a bride..."

"Nice try, Naka-chan.  You're still in trouble."

"Aw, crap."  

Kageyama snorted, trying to stop his laughter.  Nakano gave one more desperate try.  She deliberately tickled his sides.  He squirmed and started to laugh.

"HEY!  Don't...I'm gonna drop you!"

"That's okay, I won't break."  He dropped her on his bed and jumped away from her fingers.  He tried to look upset, but he knew he'd pretty much lost when she'd gotten him to laugh.  

"I should be really mad at you," he said.  "You sure you're alright?"

She chuckled.  "It's a good thing none of you guys come to my physical therapy sessions," she replied, "You'd either be holding me every 10 seconds, or beating the crap out of my therapists for hurting me.  Trust me Tobio, I deal with much worse almost every day.  Now give me my bag and a blanket."

He handed her the bag.  "Why a blanket?"

She gave him an 'are you that dumb' look.

He rolled his eyes.  "Come on, Naka-chan.  We're best friends.  I'm not gonna make fun of your legs.  I don't care what your scars look like."

She closed her eyes, sighed, and then looked Tobio in the eye.  "That might be true, Tobio, but big brother or not, I'm not too keen on letting you see me in my panties."

Kageyama turned as red as a tomato and pulled a soft blanket out of his closet.  "Here ya go," he whispered.  "I'm...gonna...go...uh..." he pointed at his door.  She laughed.  "I'd love something cold to drink, if you don't mind."  Kageyama sprinted from the room, setting Nakano to laughing again.

By the time Kageyama returned, his face was back to its normal color, and Nakano's lower body was safely under the blanket as she treated her legs.  Kageyama handed her some cherry apple juice and sat down on the bed as well.

"Sorry about Hinata busting in on our best friend day," he said, sipping his own juice.

"Don't be.  Shoyo's fun.  Sorry about scaring you."  She took a long drink of juice and handed him the glass so she could return to working on her legs.

He snorted.  "I'm used to that from you," he smiled at her.  "So...didn't you say you wanted to talk about something?  Seems like a good time."

"Yeah," she looked down, trying to work up the courage.  "Hey," he said, bending down to look at her face, "best friends, remember?  Brother and sister.  No reason to hide from me, got it?  Now, what's on your mind?"

"Look, Tobio.  I...I'm really sorry.  So much of what you've had to deal with was...was my fault.  At least partially."

"What are you talking about?"

"Oikawa.  He...I...when we were dating, he used me to get information on you.  I was too stupid to see it at the time.  He had me convinced he was gonna mentor you.  He got me to tell him everything about you.  I was so weak...I gave him exactly what he needed so he could turn you and your team against one another..." her voice began to quaver.  "I made it possible for him to turn you into their King of the Court and I am so so sorry..."

Kageyama grabbed her into a hug.  "Do you honestly think I would blame you for any of that? Oikawa is the king of manipulation. And he was your first boyfriend!  He told you he loved you!  Not to mention that I am way more responsible for what happened to me than you could ever be.  Quit blaming yourself for things you didn't do."  

Nakano couldn't help but laugh against Kageyama's shoulder.  "He was right...you said almost exactly what he thought you'd say..."

Kageyama pulled back and looked at her.  "He who?"

"I...uh...let me finish this up and I'll tell you."  Her cheeks were dusted with pink.  She went back to working on her legs as Kageyama looked at her.  She confided in someone else about this?  Who else is she this close to?  If they try to date her I'll kill them, Kageyama thought.

At last finished with her legs, braces and sweats back in place, Nakano gave the blanket back to Kageyama.  He set it aside and looked into her face.  "So...someone was able to predict my reaction to this?"

"Uh...yeah.  Well, remember after the Seijoh game?  We were all pretty upset..."

"I'll say.  Most of us sobbed our eyes out at dinner.  Actually, I think all of us did except you and Shittyshima."

"Yeah.  Well..."

"Nakano.  Not him."

"I kinda lost it on the way home.  He followed me to the park and saw me break down completely.  A sobbing disaster area."

"WHAT DID HE DO TO YOU?"

"Tobio - stop it.  He listened...when I really needed someone..."

"YOU SHOULD HAVE CALLED ME!  WHY WOULD YOU GO TO THAT ASSHOLE..."

"ENOUGH!!"  Kageyama looked at her and saw the anger blazing in her icy blue eyes.  She took a deep shaky breath.  "I don't know why I talked to him, Tobio.  But I wouldn't be able to talk to you now if I hadn't.  I was...drowning in despair.  I was convinced everything was my fault...that if I hadn't been so easy to manipulate in middle school that you'd never have had to go through what you did and we'd have beaten Seijoh that day."  Kageyama started to talk, but Nakano held up a hand. "Let me get it out."  She took another deep breath and plunged on.  "Tsukki listened, and then told me that while you and he might not get along, one thing he did know for sure was how much you care for me...and that you would never, ever blame me for any of this.  He made me see that I should tell you how I felt, so that we could talk it out and I could get rid of it at last."

Kageyama's jaw worked.  "I hate to say it...but he was right." He looked into her blue eyes again, seeing only sorrow.  "Please stop beating yourself up.  Please, Naka-chan.  I love you like my own sister and I could never be mad at you for something like this."  He gathered her into a warm hug again, both of them sharing in the full feeling of their special relationship.

"Thanks, Tobio.  I love you too.  I'm sorry for all this."  They sat, just hugging, for a little while.

"Better?" he asked.  "Better," she said with a giggle.

"Now," he sat back and gave her a glare. "What the hell is up with you and that blonde jerk?"  She blushed.  "Dammit, Naka-chan!  Are you seriously telling me you like him?"  He looked at her incredulously.  

"I don't know, Tobio," she sighed.  "After I'd cried myself out that night, he gave me a hug.  A really, nice, warm, long hug.  It felt...good.  But then, I'd been super upset, and really needed some comfort.  So maybe... it was just that?"

"Did he touch you anywhere?"

"TOBIO!  Look, knock it off!  You know he's not that type of guy!"  She chuckled.  "Actually, I think the two of you are a lot alike."

"Well that's damn insulting."

She snorted.  "Stop being an ass and think about it.  You'll see I'm right."

"Whatever.  Look, what are you gonna do about this?"

"I don't know that there's anything to do about it.  I mean, I was crazy upset, he gave me a hug and a kiss on the head..."

"HE WHAT?"

"TOBIO IF YOU YELL AT ME ONE MORE TIME I WILL SMACK YOU!"

He shivered at her words and looked at her.  "I'm sorry," he said, "I just don't want to see you hurt.  He's a loudmouth, salty asshole.  Why would you even think about him as a boyfriend?"

She sighed.  "If you'd seen how kind he was to me that night, you wouldn't say that.  He was really...sweet.  I don't yet know what that means.  I don't know if I want a boyfriend right now, and I don't know if he is even thinking that way.  But I do know one thing - Tsukki himself said we're friends.  And he took exceptional care of me at a moment when I really, really needed it.  So you, Kageyama Tobio, are going to do your best to not be a jackass around him, got it?" Her eyes bored deep into his soul.

"If he hurts you..."

"Got? It?" She punctuated each word and leaned forward into his face.  "I mean it, Tobio.  You do anything to try to stop him from being my friend or prevent us from figuring out where this might go and I will make you wish you'd never been born.  You might be my self-declared big brother but you don't get to mess with the people I care about any more than Oikawa does."  Her eyes flashed, clearly she meant every word she said.  He looked down and sighed, realizing that once again she would get her way.  He looked up at her again.

"I would never do anything to hurt you.  Clearly, telling Tsukishima to stay away from you would hurt you.  So I'll leave him alone...at least when it comes to you.  But Naka-chan...if he ever does hurt you..."

"I will turn you loose on his ass myself," she finished for him, smiling.  "Thank you, Tobio-chan.  I know you are only trying to keep me safe."

"I only want what's best for you, little sis." He hugged her again.  And if Tsukishima's what's best for you, I guess I will have to learn to live with that.  Please, Nakano, be sure before you give him your heart, okay?

Chapter Text

Something was definitely up with Tsukishima.  Nakano hadn't been sure at first.  He still seemed the same most of the time - sassy and generally sort of teasing her a lot.  But sometimes, he'd just kind of shut down and disappear for awhile.  She'd finally decided something really was going on and tried asking him about it.  She basically got told that (1) she was an idiot, (2) nothing was going on, and (3) even if something was going on, it certainly wouldn't have anything to do with her and (4) mind her own business.

It was point three that had her pretty sure that something was on his mind, and she was part of it.  Methinks that Tsukki doth protest too much, she thought.  She'd spent the last couple of days trying desperately to figure out what she might have said or done to make him act so strangely around her.  Nothing came to mind.  It was starting to irritate her, and she really didn't like it.  Today, she thought, I'm going to try to talk to Yams.

Morning practice had been canceled, so Nakano got ready and headed towards Karasuno, timing things so she'd be most likely to run into Tsukki.  Sure enough, she saw him walking ahead of her as she turned off of her street.  She hurried up to him, and noticed his headphones were on.  She moved ahead of him a little to catch his attention.

"Good morning, Tsukki!" She said, trying hard to be cheerful.

He nodded, not looking at her or removing the headphones.  He had the music up so loud she could hear it leaking through.  Okay, she thought, gonna be one of those mornings.  Well, that works for me.  If he keeps the music that loud, I can talk with Yams behind him and he really won't hear a thing.  

She fell back a few paces and let him have some space, putting her own headphones in and trying to enjoy the morning until Yams came into view.

"Morning, Tsukki!  Morning, Nakano!"  Yams said cheerfully as they met up.  Tsukishima just nodded at him as well and kept walking.  Nakano gestured to Yamaguchi with her head and the two fell into step, putting a little more distance between themselves and Tsukki.

"Guess he's not feeling talkative this morning," Yamaguchi said with an apologetic smile.

"Okay, Yams, work with me here."

"Huh?"

"What did I do?"

"What are you talking about?"

Nakano rolled her eyes.  "Come on, Tadashi, I know you've noticed if I have.  He's been getting like this for a while now - every so often he'll just withdraw from me.  What did I do?  I've been wracking my brain and I can't figure out what I might have done to cause this, so I've no idea how to fix it.  He won't talk to me about it at all.  Has he talked to you?"

Yamaguchi rubbed the back of his neck.  Tsukki had talked to him - several times.  His confusion over his feelings about the girl had been getting worse, just as Tadashi had predicted.  He was deep in denial over how he was feeling about Nakano, and every so often he'd get so lost in thinking about it he'd just tune out from the world.  But Yamaguchi knew he couldn't tell Nakano any of that - he'd never break Tsukki's trust in him.  Besides, the two of them were going to have work this out for themselves, in the end.

"Tadashi?  Is it that bad?"  Yamaguchi looked up to see Nakano staring at him with something akin to fear in her bright blue eyes.

"No!  I'm sorry...I got lost in thought.  Look Nakano, I don't think you've done anything wrong."  Yamaguchi tried to find a way to push Nakano in the right direction without saying anything directly about Tsukki's feelings.  He sighed.  "Naka-chan, how do you feel about Tsukki?"

She colored lightly.  "Well...he told me we're friends.  I know he's not one to just say something like that, so it meant a lot to me.  I'm...really glad to be his friend."  She paused, thinking about why he might have asked this question. "Was it like this when you guys became friends?  Did it take him time to adjust to having someone get closer to him?"

Yamaguchi smiled.  "Well, you might say that, but I think it's a little different with you."

"Really?  Why?"

Oh my goodness, Yamaguchi thought, so alike in so many ways.  Am I going to have to walk you through this as well?  "Well, we were a lot younger when we met.  And, you and Tsukki have a...uh...different dynamic than he and I do."

"Okay?  Can you be a little more specific?"

"Just think about it, Nakano.  I think you'll start to see it if you consider how you and I are different people."

Tsukishima took off his headphones and turned to glare at the two of them.  "Are you guys just gonna ignore me today?"

Yamaguchi moved up to join the blonde.  "Sorry, Tsukki.  You just looked like you were really into your music."

The two boys struck up a conversation, but Nakano remained a few paces behind, considering what Tadashi had said.  "What about you, Naka-chan?" Tsukishima asked.  "Planning on ignoring me all day?"  

She looked up and caught his eyes.  He was smirking at her now, his eyes filled with warmth and sassy humor.  Damn, she thought, I love those eyes.  She felt a curious sensation in the pit of her stomach as she caught up with the boys and teased Tsukishima about people who leave their headphones on but then complain that no one talks to them.

🏐🏐🏐

Tsukishima was having a bad day.

Actually, he was having another bad day in a series of bad days, but this one was really starting to irk him.

Nakano had come cheerfully walking up to him on his way in.  He'd been hoping she'd be elsewhere.  She'd been on his mind all the previous day, preventing him from concentrating and robbing him of sleep.  He didn't understand why he couldn't shake her loose from his thoughts, and it irritated him.  So, he buried himself in music and ignored her.

And then, as they walked along, he realized she was leaving him alone.  And that irritated him even more.  Why didn't she pay attention to him?  And then when Yamaguchi showed up, she had all kinds of words for him.  Part of him knew he was being ridiculous - he was the one with the headphones on and the music turned up.  So he tried...he really tried...to just set it all aside and engage with his friends a little.  And it worked.  He felt a little better, just talking and teasing with his friends as they always did.

Until Nakano tripped as she walked to her seat in the classroom.

She'd parked her wheelchair in the back, as always, and was headed for her seat.  Yamaguchi had asked her something, and she turned to him to answer.  She didn't see that the long strap from her messenger bag was right under her own foot.  As she started to fall, Tsukishima was already in motion, grabbing her around her waist and pulling her in towards his chest.

It felt so good to hold her again.  He breathed in gently to take in her scent.  She was saying something, looking embarrassed, but he could barely hear her.  It was like his brain was foggy and all he really knew was that he didn't want to let her go.

Registering that thought, he let her go.  He was pretty sure she had said some form of thank you.  He patted her shoulder and sat down without another word.  He couldn't understand what the hell was happening to him.  He couldn't wait for moments like that to come, and then couldn't stand himself for feeling that way.  It was all so damn confusing.  He tried desperately to come up with an explanation for what was happening to him...all while completely refusing to believe what was happening to him.

Distracted by these thoughts, he completely missed that their teacher was calling on him to do recitation for English Literature.  He hated recitation, and having the entire class laugh at him because he was completely spaced out didn't help.  He struggled through the rest of the morning, earning a stern warning from sensei that if he didn't pay attention, he'd be staying after class.

Lunch was equally disastrous.  It was raining, so they'd stayed in the classroom along with a few other students.  And he'd discovered that in his distracted state that morning, he'd forgotten his bento on the kitchen counter.

Nakano cheerfully offered to share hers, especially since he'd saved her from a nasty fall earlier.  She held out her half-eaten lunch, along with the chopsticks she'd used to eat it.

As he reached for them, about to mutter a small thanks, his brain tossed the following thought at him: using her chopsticks is like an indirect kiss!

He froze.  He fought with his own mind, trying to convince it such things were ridiculous and simply didn't matter.  His mind countered with the memory of her making kissy faces at him before he'd poured soda on her, as if his own brain were daring him to kiss the girl.

Nakano, having no idea about the war happening in his head, smirked at him.  She took the chopsticks and picked up a bit of chicken from her bento.  "Shall I feed you, m'lord?" she asked teasingly.

Tsukishima couldn't take any more.  He got up and walked out of the classroom.

When he returned Nakano was deeply engrossed in studying.  She didn't look up.  Her bento was still on his desk, with a fresh pair of chopsticks from the canteen on top.  Tucked under the bento was a little note reading 'Sorry if I upset you!  Please eat!' in her neat handwriting.  He felt like an ogre.  She was only being a good friend.  He quickly wrote 'You didn't and thank you' and slipped the note under the edge of her book, sitting down to eat before class resumed again.  She took the note and read it, then turned to smile at him, slipping the note in her pocket.  Yamaguchi seemed about to say something to him when the bell rang  signaling an end to lunch.  Tsukishima crammed as much food into his mouth as he could stand and hoped the rest of the day would be better.

It wasn't.

He broke his favorite pen, he got paired with the most annoying student in class for an activity, and sensei chose him to demonstrate a math problem on the board, which he hated doing only slightly less than recitation.  It didn't help that all he could think about was what a jerk he'd been to his best friends, who were both trying their hardest to smile and support him whenever they could.  

When the bell finally sounded for the end of the day, Tsukishima had never been so grateful to go to practice.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano insisted upon taking on Heartbreak Hill.  Daichi tried his best, but she wasn't having it.  She'd been insisting on participating in a lot of things lately, to the point where Daichi insisted back that he'd need information from her doctor on what was safe for her and what was not.  She'd dutifully returned the next day with a letter from her doctor telling him that no form of exercise she wished to try was off limits, provided that if her legs would at any point not support her, she immediately stop and treat them.  He knew there was no longer any point in trying to stop her from doing what she thought she could.  So when Nakano insisted on joining them, Daichi sighed and told the girl to go ahead and start with Ennoshita and Tanaka.

"Alright!  Gonna beat us to the top, Naka-chan?" Tanaka teased.

"It's not a race, Tanaka," said Ennoshita.

"Nope, it's not a race," Nakano agreed, "but I'm still gonna beat you."  She gave her senpais a sneaky smile.  And then proceeded to beat them to the top, by only a few steps perhaps, but beat them nonetheless.  

"Wow," Ennoshita said, impressed, "Somebody has clearly been training."

Tanaka laughed and slapped Nakano on the back.  "Somebody is clearly a badass!"

"Oh, stop that Tanaka-senpai," Nakano said, beginning to stretch out as they waited for the other runners.  "Hmmm...did I forget to mention I sometimes run this hill on the weekends?  Must have slipped my mind..."  Tanaka burst out laughing and Ennoshita just smiled and shook his head.

Suddenly, two blurs came charging past them, yelling at top volume.

"Was that..." Ennoshita began

"...Hinata and Kageyama?" Tanaka finished.

"HEY!" Nakano yelled at them, "GET BACK HERE!  YOU'RE GOING TOO FAR!"  She started to follow, but Ennoshita grabbed her arm.  "Oh no," he said, "I don't care how many times you've run this hill, we are not losing three people to brain dead impulsiveness."

"Ennoshita-senpai, somebody has to follow them..."

In the end, Nakano lost that battle, and Daichi insisted that everyone return to the gym.  He put Suga in charge of making sure the girl actually stayed with them.  "Don't worry," the silver-haired boy said, giving her a warm smile, "they'll be fine.  I'm sure they'll figure it out soon and catch up with us.  You'll see.  Besides, think of how much fun it will be to tease them when they get back."  Tsukishima watched as she tried to smile at Suga's words, but he could see in her eyes that she was worried about the two idiots.  I am so gonna torment the King and the Shrimp for making her worry, he thought.  That would just perfectly suit his mood.  The thought that he wished it were him she were focusing on was summarily quashed as soon as it floated by.

Practice resumed once the team returned to the gym, and Nakano tried hard to stay focused on her work.  But her eyes wandered more and more often to the doors as the time ticked by.  Daichi was growing more and more furious with his wayward first years.  Nakano knew that the boys were in deep trouble when they got back.  Tsukishima began to relish the thought of taking his frustrations out on the King.

Forty-five minutes had passed, and there was still no sign of Hinata or Kageyama.  Nakano gathered the water bottles and headed outside to refill them.  Tsukishima made his way over to the gym doors.  He noticed only moments after Nakano did that the two boys were jogging up.  He stayed inside, listening, as Nakano moved to intercept them.

"Where have you two been?  Are you alright?"  Nakano called out to them.

Hinata was exhausted, but also excited.  "We ran to Wakano, and met Ushiwaka, and went to Shiratorizawa!"  

"WHAT?" Nakano looked at them incredulously.

"We got lost," Kageyama said.

"But then when we met Ushiwaka, Kageyama told him we wanted to come spy on him, and he let us!"  Shoyo cried enthusiastically.  Nakano just stared at the two.

"Shut up, dumbass!  You're the one who said you were gonna kick Ushiwaka's ass!"  Kageyama yelled back.

Nakano grabbed each boy's shirt with a fist. "Do you have ANY idea how worried I was!?" she growled at them, trying desperately to control her voice.  "You," she shook Kageyama, "can tell me all about this later.  Right now, you'd better not say anything to Daichi about Ushiwaka or Shiratorizawa.  He's furious enough with you as it is.  Get inside, you idiots."  She let them go, moving to pick up the water bottles again.

"We're fine, Nakano.  Why are you so upset?"  Kageyama looked at her, confused.  Tsukishima heard Nakano say in that same strained voice, "I will explain just how much of a moron you are later.  Go!"  She pointed at the gym doors, and Tsukishima moved deeper inside the gym.

When Nakano returned to the gym with the full bottles, things were not going well.  Daichi looked about ready to kill someone, and Suga was trying to calm him down.  The rest of the team were just watching, some amused, some concerned, as Kageyama and Tsukishima were clearly in the middle of an argument.  Kageyama looked furious.  Tsukishima looked like he was enjoying himself.

"Look, what is your damn problem, four eyes?"

"My damn problem is people like you, Your Majesty.  People who seem to think that the rest of us little peons don't really matter."

"We apologized, alright?  We got lost.  We were fine.  Why the hell is this of so much concern to you, you jackass?"

"I wasn't concerned, Your Majesty, but maybe you want to spare a little thought for people who might have been, hmm?"  Tsukishima's eyes flickered to Nakano.  Kageyama caught the glance, and looked down, clearly chastened.  "But then again, that's never really been your thing, has it?  Worrying about what anyone else thinks is so tiring for a King."

"Hey, Saltyshima, that's..." Hinata began.

"Oh, and now the King's new favorite will speak up for him.  It must be so nice for you to have a little servant like him now...willing to accept anything you dish out and he still fawns over you.  Someone who will always be there to hit those tosses of yours...until one day you push him away from you too, just like everyone else."  Kageyama's fists were clenched and he was beginning to shake with anger.

"Tsukishima, that's enough," Nakano said sharply.

"Oh really?  You think so?  After the way he upset you today?"  Tsukishima turned his smirk to the girl.  

"Look, he knows he was wrong.  But you need to stop it now.  You've made your point, now let it go."  Nakano stared at him, an almost pleading look in her eyes. But Tsukishima wasn't ready to let it be.  All the frustration of the past many days was pouring out of him.

"Why should I?  He's the one who doesn't consider the feelings of others."

"And now you're just taking your frustrations out on him.  So I'm telling you that you need to shut up."

"Oh really?" his smirk became downright devious. "And exactly how are you going to make me do that?"

She walked up to him, looking him full in the face.  He looked frustrated, yes, but also amused.  Like he was daring her to try to get him to shut up.  In a flash, it hit her.  His strange behavior.  Yamaguchi's suggestions of what might be happening.  Her own curious feelings whenever they hugged or touched.  It clicked.  She smirked back at him.

"I don't think you've got any way of getting me..." Tsukishima began.  Nakano grabbed him by the collar of his shirt and pulled him into a kiss, right smack on his slightly open mouth.

Tsukishima's whole being froze.  He couldn't think.  He couldn't move.  No sound reached him.  His entire self was cognizant of only one thing - her lips on his.  

She kissed him, her stomach erupting in warmth.  She kissed him, but felt nothing from him in return.  He was completely frozen.  She knew only one thing - she had no intention of letting him go until she got some kind of response from him.  She pressed into him, pushing their warm lips slightly closer.  Nothing.  She hadn't intended it, but she'd caught him with his mouth just a little bit open.  She was no longer aware of the room around her.  All she knew was Tsukishima's lips, and the warmth spreading from her stomach down lower on her body.  She slipped her tongue gently in between his parted lips, swiping across his mouth, feeling his tongue hot against hers.  He moaned ever so softly.  

He felt her tongue slip into his mouth.  He felt heat rise through him, concentrating in his groin.  He moaned, just barely, against her tongue, and his hands began to move to hold her.

She stopped, breaking the kiss, and bringing her mouth to his ear.  "For someone so salty, Tsukki, you taste remarkably...sweet."

🏐🏐🏐

It took Daichi and Suga over an hour to calm the chaos that erupted, and get everyone safely on their way home.  Daichi had made it clear that there was to be no chatter about this overnight.  Go home, calm down, and we'll be settling all of this tomorrow at morning practice, he told the team.  Some of them even paid attention to his words.  At least the group chat remained silent.  Private messages, however, flew like mad.  Daichi texted each member of the team, talking briefly with them and reminding them not to make things worse the next day.

The team was in remarkably good spirits the next morning, with the exceptions of Kageyama, Hinata, Tsukishima, and Nakano.  Kageyama and Hinata apologized to the team, and were given flying laps to perform as a penalty during warm up as their teammates looked on and ribbed them good-naturedly.  Once those were done, Daichi set the team working on various drills according to their needs, and pulled Kageyama and Tsukishima aside.

"Gentlemen," he began, "I don't think I have to tell you the importance of our being able to work together as a team.  You've always rubbed each other the wrong way, I know.  But I need to know that the two of you can work this out and learn to trust each other as teammates."  Daichi gave them the stern look that meant he would brook no nonsense from them.

Kageyama spoke up first.  "Tsukishima," he was working to keep his face neutral, "you were...ab-absolutely right.  I...I apologize.  I got caught up in the moment and didn't consider how my actions might...uh...affect the team.  I've already apologized to Nakano, and she accepted it."  He turned to Daichi.  "I'll try to be more aware in the future, sir."   

Daichi nodded at him, and turned his attention to Tsukishima.  "Fine," said the blonde.  Daichi's stern look started to become a glare.  Tsukishima sighed and continued. "I...may have vented some frustrations at you that had nothing to do with your little adventure.  I shouldn't have done that."  Daichi's eyes grew slightly harder, and Tsukishima shivered.  "I...apologize." he finally said.  

"Well that's a start," Daichi said, easing the tension a bit.  "I know trust takes time, but I expect you both to be working on it.  Now, I also know you may have some matters of a more...personal nature...to discuss.  Please remember those also impact the team dynamic and act accordingly.  I'll see you inside shortly."  Daichi left the two alone and went back into the gym.

Tsukishima was about to mouth off to Kageyama when the latter spoke up.  "Hear me out," he began. "You were right about me.  Nakano told me what happened after the Seijoh match, and what you said.  I care about her way too much to ever blame her for anything like that.  Even though I hurt her too, she never blamed for me for any of it.  You were there for her when she really needed someone, and for that...I...I'm..." he grimaced and looked down to the side, "...grateful."  Tsukishima smirked, and Kageyama looked up into his face, clenching his fists.  "I don't know why she chose you, you arrogant ass, but she did!" Tsukishima's eyes widened, his smirk disappearing.  She chose me?  Did she tell him that?  Kageyama stormed on. "So listen up.  She told me not to do anything to mess up whatever your...relationship..." he growled the word out, "...might become, and I promised I wouldn't."  Tsukishima was staring wide-eyed now.  She called what we have a relationship?  Does this mean that kiss wasn't just a smart-ass way to shut me up?  Kageyama had taken a couple steps closer to him, and lowered his voice.  "But let me tell you this.  She's been hurt.  A lot.  And yeah, she's like a sister to me.  I know you can't negotiate something like this without taking the chance of someone getting hurt."  He stared right into Tsukishima's eyes.  "But if you hurt her on purpose, so help me, I'll make sure you regret it."  

Tsukishima just stared.  Kageyama finally scoffed, and turned away.  "Oi, King," he finally said, Kageyama turning back to him, "I know she's been hurt - and more than just by Oikawa.  I could see it.  And...I don't want to hurt her any more.  So, I'm not going to rush into anything.  I can't promise what will happen...but I can say that I won't do something to hurt her on purpose."  Kageyama nodded and went back in the gym. 

Tsukishima stood alone for a few moments.  Why do I get the feeling I'm just going to end up out here again anyway?  Sure enough, minutes later, Nakano and Suga came out of the gym.

Suga smiled at the two and said, "Daichi and I thought you might need a few minutes to...talk some things out.  Please just come back in whenever you're ready.  And remember - we're all teammates here, okay?"  He went back inside the gym.

Nakano looked at Tsukishima with a light blush on her cheeks but unwavering eyes.  "Tsukki, I'm sorry.  I shouldn't have..."

"Did you mean it?"

"What?" she sounded lost, her train of thought gone.

"Did you mean to kiss me like that?  Or was it just your way of shutting me up?"  

Her eyes never wavered from his, and there was no hesitation in her voice.  "I meant it.  I wouldn't have done it if I hadn't."  Tsukishima's hand moved up to cover his mouth.  He was caught between shock, happiness, and fear.   "It did shut you up pretty effectively, though," she said, a sassy twinkle in her eye.  She noted that Tsukishima's expression didn't change.  Nakano sighed, and looked down a moment.  When she looked up again, she was serious.  "I'm sorry, again.  Clearly, it's not something you're in the mood to joke about.  I shouldn't have done that, right in front of everyone."

"Nakano...I...I need some time to figure things out."

"Take all the time you need." She chuckled, a little sadly.  "One of us should think before acting, I guess.  I looked into your face, suddenly realized what I felt, and then acted.  I guess I can be a little too impulsive, sometimes."  She rubbed the back of her neck.  She fixed her eyes on him again.  "Tsukki, may I tell you one thing?"

"What is it?"

"Whatever happens...being your friend means the world to me.  I realize that...well, it's kind of up to you where things go from here.  But...I hope...that regardless, we will always be friends."

Damn, he thought, she's worried about that right now?  After everything, that's what most concerns her in this moment?  She's...amazing.  He looked at her, and managed a small smile.  "I want that too."  He held out his hand.  She took it, gingerly.  He gripped her hand, flipped it, and kissed the back of it.  She laughed softly.  

"Ready to go back inside?" she asked.

"I'll be in shortly."

She nodded and returned to the gym.  All he had wanted to do was gather her in his arms, but he couldn't.  Fear prickled the palms of his hands, while a pleasant heat had started in him from merely touching her hand.  He found he was shaking slightly.  Tsukishima gave a small groan and buried his face in his hands.  How did this happen?  How is it possible that I could be in this situation?  What am I supposed to do now?

"How did she do this to me with just one kiss?"

Chapter Text

She's so beautiful.  Her eyes are like sapphires sparkling in the light of the Full Moon.  They look at me with such intensity, such love.  Her strawberry blonde hair shimmers, falling all around her shoulders as I undo the ties she uses to bind it up.

Her skin is so soft on my hands.  I cup her lovely face, pulling it towards my own, bringing our lips together.  She smells like roses.

Now our tongues are tangling as the kiss becomes more passionate.  She tastes both sweet and spicy...a curious mix of honey and hot peppers.  Her hands slip up under my shirt to stroke the skin of my back.  My hands wander down her jawline, her neck, and then begin to undo the buttons of her white shirt.  My mouth follows the path my hands took, kissing, licking, teasing, tasting. She moans my name softly, so seductive.

As I kiss gently into the décolletage created by her bra as I remove her shirt, her hands slide down under the waistbands of my pants and shorts.  She grabs my ass firmly with both hands and pushes our hips together, grinding herself against the bulge in my pants.  I moan and crush my lips against hers again as I...

I sit bolt upright in bed, panting, sweating, my body shaking as it finishes its release.  

Ugh, I can't believe this.  Not that I haven't had this kind of dream before.  I mean, it's not an unusual thing for guys my age.  It's not the fact that it was that kind of dream that upsets me.

It's that for the first time, I've had that kind of dream about someone I actually know.

I've just had a wet dream about Ogawa Nakano.

Well, I can't deny it to myself anymore.  My body has just let me know in no uncertain terms that I am very much attracted to her.  I guess I already knew that...I just didn't really want to admit it to myself.  The thought of being in love with someone terrifies me.  I know I've been in denial about this for a while now.  But I can't ignore it anymore.

Mostly because, even after all that, my body isn't finished.

Running my hands through my hair and groaning, I get up and make my way to the shower to finish off what my dreams started.  

🏐🏐🏐

It's Thursday today, and Nakano works out in the storage room on Thursdays.  She ate very quickly today, and left Yamaguchi and I to go do her exercises.  I think she's been working out more in the days since the kissing incident.  I wonder if that's how she's dealing with frustration.  Frustration over me, because I haven't been able to give her any kind of answer. 

"Yamaguchi, what am I gonna do?" Tadashi and I are sitting under a tree not too far from the gym, eating our lunches.  I can't take it anymore, I need to talk to someone about this.  And I am so not ready to talk to Nakano.

"Tsukki, I don't think I'm the one you should be talking to."

"I can't talk to her yet, Tadashi.  Every time I think I might try...I...I can't."

"Why not?  You're friends.  Just tell her how you feel."

"You say that like it's so damn simple."

"Well...because...it kind of...is?"  He's looking at me like I'm an idiot.  Pfft, maybe I am.

"Have you ever been in love with someone, Tadashi?"  He's turned into a tomato.  All he can do is shake his head no.  "Then maybe you shouldn't be telling me how simple it is."

"Are you in love with Nakano, then?" 

"I don't know!  Maybe?"  I'm lying.  I am.  I know I am.  The problem is not that I don't know.  The problem is that I do know, and it terrifies me.

"Tsukki, I don't think you're being honest with yourself."  I turn to stare at him.  How the hell does he know that?  

"What makes you say that?"

"Because I know you.  I've known you for a long time.  I've seen the way you act around all different kinds of people.  Most of them don't have too much of an impact on you.  The team does, but that's different.  The impact Nakano has on you...it's not like anything else.  You're different for her.  Different in a way I've never seen you be for anyone else."

"And that makes you so sure that I love her?"

"Well, based on how you act, yeah.  I mean, I don't know if it's true love and all that, but I definitely think you like her a lot.  Maybe it will be love in time."

"How I act?  What do you mean?"

Yamaguchi sighs, and gives me that 'you're such an idiot' look again.  "You don't even realize it, do you Tsukki?  I guess that makes sense.  You're doing it unconsciously."

"Doing what?"

"When we sit in class, your hands will reach towards her sometimes.  Little gestures, small.  If she's anywhere nearby, your eyes can hardly look away from her.  You'll glance, over and over again, like you want to make sure she's still there.  When you hear her voice, you smile.  Oh, it's not a big smile, but it's there.  I can see it.  Maybe she can too, I don't know.  And if she comes close to you...well..." He's blushing.  Why is he blushing?  What the heck do I do when she comes close to me?

"Spit it out, Tadashi.  What do I do?"

"You...very gently, mind you, I don't know that anyone else can tell but me...you kinda...breathe in.  Like you want to...uh..."

Damn.  "...catch her scent?"  Roses.  I love how she smells like roses.  Damn.

"Yeah. Kinda."

Great, just great.  "So...the whole school must think I'm a pervert."

"No, Tsukki, I don't even think anyone on the team has noticed it.  Heck, I don't even think Naka-chan has noticed it.  But...I've known you longer than any of them!  So yeah, I can tell that she's really affected you.  She's on your mind all the time, isn't she?"

I can't even answer that.  I just look at him.  I feel...like a complete weakling.  Soft.  Stupid.  

He smiles.  "I'll take that as a yes.  Tsukki, what's really bothering you?  What's really holding you back?"

How can I tell him?  He'll think I'm a complete loser.  I can't tell him that I'm afraid that a girl might break my heart.  What the hell kind of man admits to that?  "Well...what if things don't work out right?  What if I hurt her?  I know there's a whole lot about her past that I don't know, and that a lot of it wasn't pleasant.  I know Oikawa hurt her pretty badly.  I don't want to add to any of that."

"Tsukki, you like Nakano, right?  And please, just say yes or no already and stop trying to convince yourself you don't yet really know."

Well, fine dammit, if you're going to put it that way.  Rolling my eyes, I answer, "Yes."

"Okay, so given that, I think you'd agree that your intention is not to hurt her, right?  You wouldn't deliberately try to cause her pain.  At the end of the day, even if you two don't fall in love, you're still friends, right?"

"Well, yeah, but even with the best of intentions, what if it goes badly?  What if I hurt her without meaning to?"

Yamaguchi sighs again.  Am I really that dense in his eyes?  "Look, Tsukki, caring about someone always involves a certain level of risk.  To really care for someone, you have to be willing to let them in, to let your guard down and let them see you for who you really are.  Nakano knows that.  I think she knows more about risk taking than any of the rest of us.  Twenty percent, remember?"

"Huh?"

"You asked what chance she was given to ever walk again, and she answered twenty percent.  That's a pretty low chance.  But she did it anyway.  And I'm sure that meant taking a lot of additional risks along the way.  She had three more surgeries.  And she's done so much physical therapy.  I bet there were a lot of setbacks along the way.  And yet she kept taking the risk.  She's willing to accept those risks, even when the chance of something good happening is low."

Damn, Tadashi.  Sometimes I forget just how smart you really are.  I really shouldn't do that.

"Tsukki, I don't know what the chances are that you and Naka-chan will have a good relationship, or that it will last.  But she obviously likes you enough to accept that risk.  I think she's very aware of the risk she's taking, because I think almost everything that's happened to her in the past couple of years has involved a lot of risk."

He's looking toward...oh, there she is, coming back to join us.  I love the way the sunlight makes her hair kinda sparkle.

"Ask yourself this one thing, Tsukki.  Are you worried because you are afraid she might get hurt...or are you afraid of taking that risk yourself?"

🏐🏐🏐

Well, Tadashi hit the nail right on the head today.  He's right.  While I don't want to hurt her, that's not what's stopping me from taking the next step.  It's me.  My fear of someone I care for hurting me...again.  

Walking home alone feels so strange.  Yamaguchi has already headed his way, and Nakano had an afternoon medical appointment and left practice early.  She's had a few of those lately.  I hope there's nothing wrong.

She's been pretty much her usual self, as far as I can tell.  She's not asked me about my feelings, not even once.  I'm not sure how I feel about that.  But she did say to take all the time I need.  I guess it's really only been a few days...it feels like an eternity.  Tadashi is right...she's used to taking risks, and used to having to work for what she wants.  Damn, that girl is so much braver than I am.  If it were reversed, if I had confessed and was waiting for her answer, could I be this patient?  Could I carry on waiting for her to decide?  Or would I just give up and forget about it?  

Yeah, well, I think I know the answer to that, and it isn't exactly complimentary.  

I want to spend time with her again, but I'm afraid if we spend time alone, it might get awkward.  Or maybe I'm afraid of what might happen.  

I've got an idea, though.  The King and the Shrimp came begging today, asking me to tutor them.  I hate tutoring idiots.  But Nakano still owes me a favor, and maybe I can make tutoring the single-brain-celled organism that is Kageyama and Hinata a little more fun.  I'm going to get her to help me.  I bet she will.  She's fond of those two, especially Kageyama, and she's the type who actually likes helping people.  We can spend some time together, but not be alone.  I guess, I kinda want to see if we can really still be friends, even after what happened.  

Or maybe I'm just stalling for time.  Of course, I don't need to stall.  She already said I can have it.

Okay, a shower, something to eat, and then I'm going to text her.

Kei
Hey Naka-chan, you awake?

Roses
Tsukki!  What's up?

Kei
You still owe me one, right?

Roses
Oh my goodness...have you finally chosen how I shall repay you?

Kei
Yep.  I want you to help me tutor the King and the Shrimp.

Roses
One, you are tutoring them?  What?  Why?
Two, OMG you are trying to kill me aren't you?

Kei
What?

Roses
Explain the first part.

Kei
They want to be able to go to Tokyo in July.  They need to actually pass their classes to do that.

Roses
Yeah, I get that part.  What I am wondering is how they managed to convince you to tutor them. 😏

Kei
It's Tadashi's fault.

Roses
LOL I should have known.

Kei
Alright, now you explain the second part.

Roses
Ugh...I hate tutoring.  I've tried to tutor Kags before.  It was...painful.  I'm not the teaching type.

Kei
I really have to say that's not the answer I expected from you.  

Roses
Oh?

Kei
I figured you'd be all about helping your teammates and whatever.

Roses
Well, I am happy to help my teammates...I just wish it wasn't tutoring.  But, I do owe you one.  So I guess I'm in.  When and where are we doing this?

Kei
How about this Saturday?  Your place.

Roses
OMG WTF?  You really are trying to kill me.

Kei
What now?

Roses
You realize I have a volleyball court in my backyard.  Shoyo will be able to sense that from like a mile away.  Are you sure you want them to come to my house?

Kei
Well I sure as hell don't want them in mine.

Roses
Okay, but just know this - if Shoyo starts texting me from my backyard in the middle of the night to come out and toss to him, I'm blaming you.

Kei
WHAT?  He'd better not be randomly showing up in your backyard at night!

Roses
Oh?  So you're the only one allowed to do that?  😏

Oops.  She's got me there.  

Roses
Sorry, Tsukki.  I didn't mean to push.

Kei
What?  Don't apologize.  That wasn't pushing.  You got me fair and square.  Besides, you've got every right to push.

Roses
No I don't.  I said you could take all the time you wanted, and I meant it.

Kei
Can I ask you something?

Roses
Of course.  Fire away.

Kei
How are you not mad at me right now?

Roses
What?  Why would I be mad?

Kei
I've not given you an answer yet.

Roses
And you might never.  And we will still be friends and teammates.  I dropped this whole thing on you, out of the blue, in front of our team.  If anything, I'm amazed you're not mad at me.

Kei
I'm not, you know.  

Roses
Good, I'm glad.  

I want to say something.  I want to tell her I like her.  But dammit, I can't do that by text.

Kei
So...Saturday after practice?  

Roses
I guess it's a plan!  At least, when we get too frustrated with them, we can take them outside and play volleyball for a while.  Maybe that will keep Shoyo a little more focused.

Kei
I'll let the two volleyball idiots know.

Roses
And I'll be sure to have the second part of this ready as well.

Kei
Second part?

Roses
LOL I see you've forgotten.  Good, it'll be a nice surprise then.

Kei
What second part?  Tell me!

Roses
Nope.  Goodnight Tsukki.

Kei
Wait a minute!

Roses
I'm going to sleep now.

Kei
Naka-chan!  Tell me.

Roses
Adorable nicknames will not help you now.  Get some sleep.

Kei
Fine.  Goodnight. 🤗

Roses
Not even adorable emojis will drag it out of me. 😘

I am both excited and terrified.  Okay, more excited than terrified.  Hey, is that progress?  I think I'm going to take it as progress.  I've got to take my victories where I can get them at this point.

🏐🏐🏐

Morning practice.  I'm actually feeling reasonably awake today.  I slept well last night.  First time in a while that I've haven't woken up feeling exhausted or...well...overstimulated.

Everybody's just kind of stretching out and getting ready when Suga suddenly yells out, "Woah, good morning, beautiful!  Looking good!"

I look in the direction he's looking.  It's Nakano.

She cut her hair.

Her hair has always been long.  She would braid it for practice.  The braid would reach about halfway down her back, maybe a little longer.

Now her strawberry blonde hair is about shoulder-length, maybe a little less.  She could still pull it up, I guess.  But at the moment, she's just standing and posing, tossing her now-short hair and letting it swirl around her face.

It's got to be the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.

I want to go over and grab her and plunge my hands into that gorgeous hair and kiss her.  I know the rest of the guys on the team are complimenting her, flirting with her, telling her how beautiful she is.  They're not wrong.  I want to go over and wrap my arms around her and tell everyone else to back off, because she's mine.

If only I were brave enough to do that.  But there's only one place that's true.  Only in my dreams.

The King is trying to get everyone to back off of his 'little sister'.  She just hit him.  I love it.

Suga has walked over to me.  "She's a lovely girl," he says.  "It won't be long before someone takes an interest in her.  Whoever she chooses will be a very lucky guy."  He pats my shoulder and walks away.

I think he's trying to tell me I'd better not wait too long.  He's right, she could have her pick of anyone.  Why would she wait for me?

Chapter Text

Friday afternoon practice was going well.  Daichi was grateful for the seeming lack of drama - there had been plenty enough of that for his taste over the past week or so.  He knew that exams were looming on the horizon, and that was more than enough to have to deal with at the moment.  Hopefully all four of the 'numbskull squad' as he often called them (but only to Suga) would pass all of their exams.  This trip to Tokyo was an opportunity he did not want to waste.  Having made the decision to stay in the club until the very end, Daichi's need to play at Nationals was intensifying daily.  He wasn't too worried about Nishinoya and Tanaka - he knew they could pull it out.  Kageyama and Hinata on the other hand...those two he worried about.

At the moment, the team was running a spiking drill.  Nakano was setting balls thrown to her by Coach Ukai, allowing both Suga and Kageyama to practice hitting.  Nishinoya was receiving, of course, and doing a rather impressive job.  Actually, pretty much everyone was doing an amazing job.  There were only two things he'd noticed that gave him pause.  Tsukishima was doing fine, but not much more than that.  Nothing too new there.  He also seemed to spend an inordinate amount of time looking at Nakano, but that too was not entirely unusual for him.  No, what bothered Daichi was the amount of whispered chatter going on between Suga and Asahi.  Asahi was, of course, not the issue.  Suga was up to something.  Daichi was almost sure of it.  

At last Kiyoko declared that everyone had completed the required number of successful hits.  The team took a break as Kiyoko and Yachi handed out water bottles and towels.  Nakano moved to help, but was stopped by Kiyoko.  "Here," she said, handing the girl a water bottle and towel.  "Yachi can help me do this.  You should catch your breath.  It's great that we have so many people to help out now."

"Thanks," Nakano panted, gratefully sinking down and taking a long pull off the water bottle.  Someone sat next to her, doing the same.  It was Asahi.

"Well, hi there, Ace!" Nakano smiled at him, "Nice spikes!"

"Nice sets!" he responded with a shy smile of his own.  "I just wanted to say...uh...I like your new hairstyle."  Nakano had chosen to pull her hair up into a ponytail for afternoon practice.

"Thanks!  I haven't had my hair this short in a long time.  It feels really good."  

"I'm curious about something...would you mind taking your hair down for a minute?"

She smiled and undid her ponytail, as Asahi also unbound his hair.  She chuckled.  "Asahi, are you trying to find out which one of us is longer?  Isn't that the kind of thing boys are supposed to do with..."

Asahi turned a bright shade of pink and waved his hands.  "No...no...I was just..."

Nakano laughed out loud, shoulder checking the ace.  "I'm just teasing.  Come on, let's see who's got longer hair."  They sat shoulder to shoulder, Asahi bending down so the top of his head was level with Nakano's.  

"Wow," Asahi said, holding a little of his hair and her hair in his fingers, "I think I win.  Hmmm...maybe I should get my hair cut..."

"Nope," Nakano said, turning to face him. "Don't you dare.  I like your hair just the way it is, Ace."  She pulled her hair up again, and downed some more water.  

The two continued to chat about the team, the upcoming Tokyo trip, exams, and whatever else came into their heads.  Tsukishima watched them, clenching his water bottle rather tightly.  Since when did Asahi want to spend his break time with her?  What the hell is this all about?  He stared at the pair for the entire break, a fact that did not go unnoticed by several other people in the room.

Practice continued.  Tsukishima watched the ace carefully.  He didn't seem to be particularly watching Nakano, as far as he could tell.  Tsukishima did, however.  He was so focused on the girl, that he didn't notice Asahi walk up to him as things began to wind down.

"Do you like being a middle blocker, Tsukishima?" the ace asked him.

Tsukishima jumped, not realizing that Asahi was so close.  "It's fine.  I'm tall, so it makes sense that I play that position."

"Do you ever feel like, sometimes, you just don't want to jump?"

"Well, sure.  But that's what I'm there to do."

"I bet it's hard to keep jumping when you're faced with an opponent who keeps getting past you, huh?"

"Sometimes."  Where is he going with this?

"I find it hard sometimes to keep calling for the ball when I have trouble getting past guys like you,"  Asahi smiled and put a hand on Tsukishima's shoulder, "But then again, if I don't try, then I'll never know if I can win."  He patted Tsukishima's shoulder and walked away.

Tsukishima stared after his senpai.  Why do I get the feeling that little exchange actually had nothing to do with volleyball?   Tsukishima was feeling thoroughly irritated.  The last thing he needed was for the team to be taking an interest in his love life.  

Asahi walked over to Suga, looking somewhat sickly.  "Am I done now?" he whispered to his friend.

"What's wrong? You did great." Suga patted him on the back.  "It wasn't that bad, was it?"

"I just don't want Nakano to get the wrong idea."

"You didn't say or do anything that untoward, Asahi.  All you did was make some friendly conversation, just like you've done with her many times before."  Suga smiled.  "Plus, it seemed to have the desired effect on Tsukishima."  Suga nodded in the blonde's direction - he was currently getting Nakano to be his cool down partner for stretches.

"You know, maybe you should just let them figure this out on their own, Suga," Asahi said as the two began their own cool down.

"Oh come on, Asahi, I'm just trying to help my kohais!  Seems to me like they need a little encouragement!  Well, at least Tsukishima does.  I just don't want to see him miss out on a great chance for happiness.  I think he could use some."

"If Daichi finds out, he's gonna be mad."

"Well, you're not gonna tell him, because if you do, he'll be mad at you too for going along with me."

The ace broke out in a sweat and shut his mouth.  Suga just laughed.

"Listen up, everyone!" Coach Ukai yelled.  "I just got a call - I've got to head home.  Family business.  I'm also gonna need to cancel practice tomorrow.  Plan to be here on Sunday same time instead.  Everybody okay with that?"

"Yes, sir!" the team sang out.

"Alright!  Nice work today, everyone!  Daichi, Kiyoko has some notes from me for you to go over before you leave today.  Enjoy your day off tomorrow and I'll see you all Sunday!"  He jogged quickly out of the gym.

"Hey," Nakano said to Tsukishima, "how about we move up tutoring tomorrow?  Would you be okay to start at 10AM?  Folding in breaks for lunch and volleyball will give us the best chance to try to keep Kags and Shoyo focused.  And the more time we have to work with, the better I think it will go."

"That's fine by me.  Are you sure your mom won't mind suddenly needing to make lunch for three additional people?"

"I'm sure she won't," Nakano scoffed, "you have no idea how happy she was when I said I wanted to have some company over that wasn't just Kags.  If I asked her to provide each of you with a car she'd probably do it."

He looked at her, curious, as they continued to stretch.  "Is it so unusual for you to have company over?"

"Yeah, kinda."  She looked rather sad for a moment, but quickly held her head up and smiled.  

How strange, he thought.  She's so upbeat, I just assumed she had tons of friends.  Now that he thought about it, he'd never seen her talking at school with anyone who wasn't on the volleyball team.  Even before she'd joined, the only people she'd ever talked to in class beyond what sensei required of her had been him and Yamaguchi.  

"Better tell the volleyball idiots about the change of time," he said as he helped her up.

She chuckled, catching up with Kageyama and Hinata as the team gathered around for Daichi's closeout.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano had been correct, her mom was all too happy to make lunch for her friends.  After practice ended, she'd cleaned her room, had dinner, finished up the special surprise for Tsukki for tomorrow, and even checked out her volleyball court and gear.  Everything was ready.

The days were long now, and the sky was still light.  Sunset would be coming on soon, but she was pretty sure there was still time enough for her to go for a nice run.  She dressed in workout gear, grabbed her phone, told her mom she'd be back soon, and started out to run through her neighborhood.

Not far along she realized she'd forgotten her headphones.  I guess I could go back, she thought, ugh, I just don't feel like it.  Music isn't helping much these days anyway.  It all reminds me of him.

Nakano had taken to exercising more in the days since she'd so abruptly let Tsukishima know how she felt.  When she was exhausted, she slept better, and thought less.  Well, one good thing about all this, she thought, I'm really making good progress on conditioning my legs.  She chuckled to herself.  Her doc had been pretty amazed at how quickly she'd begun progressing.  Volleyball clearly agrees with you, he'd said.  

Well, he's not wrong.  I'm so glad to be back on the court, at least somewhat.

Her thoughts wandered back to Tsukki, as they did so often these days.  She'd meant what she'd said - he could take as much time as he wanted to give her an answer.  But the wait was torture.  It had been at least a week now.  She forced herself to stop counting days early on - it would drive her mad.  But she was sure it had been at least a week.  Longer maybe?  It felt longer.

They continued to interact as friends, for which she was both deeply grateful and terribly sad.  She wanted to be more, but she really didn't want to be less.  So she did what she had been doing so well for more than three years - held her head up, smiled, and kept going.  She was really good at it by now.   She didn't think anyone would be able to tell just how much she was really feeling inside - not even Tobio-chan.  Part of her wanted to share what she was feeling with him, but that was just too risky.  Tobio and Tsukki already didn't get along very well, and if Tobio thought that Tsukki was hurting her in some way, well, he'd likely go ballistic.  

Besides, Tsukki wasn't hurting her - not deliberately anyway.  She knew he had to be pretty confused.  He's not one to let people in easily, she thought, and I basically went ahead and pushed my way in, literally.  She recalled the sweet taste of his mouth.  She felt a pleasant heat start to flow through her.  Dammit, girl, think about something else.

As if in response to this thought, her eyes focused on the word 'Tsukishima' written on the house in front of her.  She stopped, staring in confusion.  Wait, she thought, I must have run down his street without even thinking.  This must be his house.  

She stood in the growing twilight, looking at his house.  It seemed to match his personality, somehow.  Neat, and orderly.  The garden was clearly well tended.  She could hear guitar music coming from an open window.  She looked up, walking along to see if she could spot the musician.

Her eyes widened when she saw him.  It was Tsukki, sitting next to the open window in what she assumed was his room, playing guitar.  She dropped down beside the hedges, trying to watch him without being seen.  He was playing something familiar...

"On a dark desert highway, cool wind in my hair..."

Her mouth dropped open as she heard his warm, vibrant tenor voice.  It was raw, untrained, and stunning.

"Warm smell of colitas, rising up through the air"

Hotel California, huh Tsukki?  An excellent choice.  I knew you had to like old school music.  How do you know the Eagles but not Metallica?  She smiled to herself.  

"Up ahead in the distance, I saw a shimmering light
My head grew heavy and my sight grew dim
I had to stop for the night
There she stood in the doorway;
I heard the mission bell
And I was thinking to myself,
'This could be Heaven or this could be Hell'
Then she lit up a candle and she showed me the way
There were voices down the corridor,
I thought I heard them say...Welcome to the Hotel California
Such a lovely place
Such a lovely face
Plenty of room at the Hotel California
Any time of year
You can find it here"

She was completely entranced.  Unconsciously, she began to hum along with his beautiful music.

"Her mind is Tiffany-twisted, she got the Mercedes bends
She got a lot of pretty, pretty boys she calls friends
How they dance in the courtyard, sweet summer sweat.
Some dance to remember, some dance to forget
So I called up the Captain,
'Please bring me my wine'
He said, 'We haven't had that spirit here since nineteen sixty nine'"

It was one of her favorite songs, she listened to it all the time.  Without even thinking about it, she harmonized with him on the next line.

"And still those voices are calling from far away,"

It sounded wonderful to her.  Her eyes closed and she allowed the music to carry her along.

"Wake you up in the middle of the night
Just to hear them say..."

She sang with him again on the chorus, harmonizing and taking the echo part.

"Welcome to the Hotel California
Such a lovely place (Such a lovely place)
Such a lovely face
They livin' it up at the Hotel California
What a nice surprise (what a nice surprise)
Bring your alibis"

Her eyes flew open as she realized that if she could hear him, he might be able to hear her.  She looked up, but he seemed oblivious.  His eyes were closed, feeling his music.  I should go, she thought, but she couldn't tear herself away from the private concert.

"Mirrors on the ceiling,
The pink champagne on ice
And she said 'We are all just prisoners here, of our own device'
And in the master's chambers,
They gathered for the feast
They stab it with their steely knives,
But they just can't kill the beast
Last thing I remember, I was
Running for the door
I had to find the passage back
To the place I was before
'Relax,' said the night man,
'We are programmed to receive.
You can check-out any time you like,
But you can never leave!'

He gently improvised some closing chords.  Nakano suddenly realized she was holding her breath, and let it out slowly.  Her legs were aching from being in an awkward position for so long.  She looked down at them, trying to shift herself to be more comfortable.  When she looked up again, the window was closed, and Tsukki was gone.

She got up, stretching a bit.  Her legs were shaky now, she'd have to walk back to her house.  Fortunately, it was only a block away.  Twilight was ending, soon the sky would be fully dark.  She took one last glance at Tsukki's window before starting off.  Damn, she thought, he may not be so good at sorting out his feelings, but boy, could he play guitar.

Another realization hit her.  Crap, she thought, I think I just fell for him even more.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano's mother had words for her when she got back, but she mostly shrugged it off.  She was fine.  Her mother always worried too much, and about the wrong things.  She apologized for worrying her and gave her a hug.  That seemed to appease her.  She went to her room to care for her legs, and try to get some sleep.

Her phone went off just as she was settling down.

My Big Bro 🤗
We're still on for 10AM tomorrow, right?

Queen Setter 🏐
You bet.  I'm all ready for you guys.

My Big Bro 🤗
You sure?

Queen Setter 🏐
What's that supposed to mean? 😏

My Big Bro 🤗
Well, I seem to recall the last time you tried to tutor me in something we almost killed each other.

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL It wasn't that bad.

My Big Bro 🤗
I remember you yelling I am so gonna kill you at one point...

Queen Setter 🏐
But this time Tsukki and Shoyo will be there!  I'm sure that will make everything better!

My Big Bro 🤗
Was that sarcasm or are you just delusional?

Queen Setter 🏐
Dude, your enthusiasm for this event is just infectious.

My Big Bro 🤗
Seriously though are you gonna be okay?

Queen Setter 🏐
Why wouldn't I be?

My Big Bro 🤗
He still hasn't answered you, has he?

Queen Setter 🏐
Not something you need to worry about Tobio-chan.  He can take as long as he wants.

My Big Bro 🤗
Are you okay?  If he's hurting you, tell me and he's dead.

Queen Setter 🏐
TOBIO!  He's not hurting me.  It's not his fault.  I dropped this on him in front of everyone with no warning.  He deserves all the time he wants to sort it all out.  

My Big Bro 🤗
Yeah, I thought that was a rather Oikawa move on your part.

Queen Setter 🏐
OW!  Now that hurt me.

My Big Bro 🤗
Sorry.  But you know I'm not wrong.

Queen Setter 🏐
Well, there was one major difference.  Shittykawa would do that kind of thing but have absolutely no real emotion behind it.  He'd do that just to get to someone.  I'd never do that.  I meant it, dammit.  Tobio, he makes me feel happy.  I feel like he understands me somehow.  I don't even know why I feel like that.  I just do.  I really, really like him Tobio.  

My Big Bro 🤗
Dang I think that's the longest text I've ever seen.

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL Sorry.

My Big Bro 🤗
Don't be.  It's about time you let out some real emotion regarding this. Don't feel like you need to keep it all in, okay?  I'm here if you need someone - even if you need to talk about Shittyshima.

Queen Setter 🏐
I know.  Thanks Tobio-chan.

My Big Bro 🤗
That's what big brothers are for. 🤗

Queen Setter 🏐
LOL Goodnight Tobio-chan.  See ya tomorrow.

My Big Bro 🤗
Night Naka-chan.

She smiled.  Tobio really does love me like his very own sister.  No matter how things go with Tsukki, Tobio will be there.  That's a very comforting thought.  

She hadn't felt that kind of comfort in long time.

Chapter Text

The doorbell at the Ogawa house sounded at precisely 10AM.

Well that's kinda crazy, Nakano thought.  I figured Tsukki would be early, and Tobio and Shoyo would be late.  I wonder who it is?  She smiled as she opened the door to find all three boys on her doorstep.  Yep, she thought, crazy.

"Hey guys!" she chuckled as she welcomed them in.  "Did you wait on the doorstep until precisely 10AM or what?"

Tsukki scoffed.  "I don't think Hinata would be able to stand still for something like that."

The boys changed into house slippers and quietly asked for pardon at the intrusion...except for Hinata who yelled it out at the top of his lungs.  Nakano's mother came in at the young man's cheerful voice.  

"Welcome, boys!  Tobio-chan, it's so good to see you again," Nakano's mom gave the raven-haired boy a hug as he blushed.  She turned her attention to the two newcomers, looking at her daughter expectantly.  

"Mom, these are two of my friends and volleyball teammates, Hinata Shoyo and Tsukishima Kei."  Nakano indicated her friends, and desperately hoped her mother wouldn't say or do anything else too embarrassing.

"It's a pleasure to meet you, Ogawa-san," both boys said, bowing.  

"It's so wonderful to have you all to visit!  I am so glad Naka-chan is making some new friends!  You boys are always welcome.  Now let me see..." she looked at the two boys carefully, then pointed at Hinata.  "You're Shoyo-chan, right?"  He nodded vigorously with a smile.  Nakano's mom turned to Tsukishima.  Nakano opened her mouth...

"...and that means you're Kei-chan!" her mother trilled.   Nakano facepalmed.  

"Yes, ma'am." Tsukishima replied politely, "Thank you very much for allowing us to hold our tutoring session here today." 

"It's absolutely my pleasure, Kei-chan.  I hope to get to meet the rest of the team sometime soon.  Why don't you all go ahead to Nakano's room and I'll bring you some drinks and snacks?"

"Thanks Mom!"  Nakano led the boys away as they echoed her thanks.  

"Sorry about her," Nakano said as the boys entered her room.  

"She seemed really nice!" Shoyo said.  Nakano looked at Tsukishima and rolled her eyes.  He chuckled back.

"UWAH!" cried Hinata, "Look at all the pandas!"

Tsukishima looked around Nakano's room.  If not for the giant wall of pandas, he thought, I could easily believe this room might belong to any of us.  He'd figured her room would be all full of pink and girly things.  Nakano's blue volleyball-filled room rather amazed him.  

"Alright boys, let's get down to business.  Tsukki, who do you want to work with first?"  Nakano asked.

Tsukishima looked over at the other two boys.  Hinata looked terrified, and Kageyama looked annoyed.  I think I'll start by irritating the King a little more, he thought.  "What do you need to work on most, Your Majesty?" he asked, smirking at Kageyama.

Nakano glared at him.  "Could we do without that for one day, please?"

"Probably not," Tsukishima replied.

Tobio gave her a 'him, really?' look.  He sighed.  "I'd say probably English, but also Japanese Vocabulary."

"Does that mean you're going to help me, Nakano?" Shoyo asked, "I need help in English too, but we should probably also work on History."

The four settled down to start, Tsukishima working with Kageyama and Nakano working with Hinata.  Nakano's mom arrived with snacks and drinks, and Tsukishima and Nakano agreed that if either of them started to get frustrated, they would signal for a switch.

They made it 30 minutes before Tsukishima grabbed Nakano's shoulder and almost threw her at Kageyama.  "Wow, not bad," she joked, "you made it an entire half an hour!"

"How did I wind up doing this again?" he growled.

"Blame Tadashi," she said, patting him on the shoulder, "Don't worry...I've got a surprise for you later than will make it all worth it."

"Ooooooh," Shoyo called, "I bet it's gonna be anoth - "  Kageyama reached over and slapped his hand over Hinata's mouth.  "SHUT UP, DUMBASS!"

Nakano laughed.  "It's something we can all enjoy," she said with a gleam in her blue eyes, "but that's for later.  For right now - let's get back to it."

They ended up swapping partners 3 more times before lunch was announced.  It was a good thing it came when it did, as Nakano and Kageyama were about to come to blows.  

"Aren't they supposed to be best friends?" Hinata asked Tsukishima.

"Yeah, well, apparently that doesn't extend to the teaching of English," he replied.

"Come on," Nakano said, glaring at Kageyama, "let's go eat." She stood up.  Kageyama stood as well, and stopped her by pulling her into a hug from behind. Tsukishima's eyes almost popped out of his head, and Hinata just looked confused.

"Sorry," Kageyama said.  He felt Nakano stiffen, but then relax and wrap her arms around his arms.  They both felt the warm, full feeling in their chest they had come to appreciate so much.  "Me too," Nakano replied softly.  

"Ummm...are you guys..." Shoyo began.

The two friends stopped hugging, but Kageyama kept his arm around Nakano's shoulders.  He pointed at her.  "Little sister.  Nothing more.  I just don't like fighting with her."

She laughed, and elbowed him off of her.  "Come on you guys!  It's time for a break and some food!  I hope you all like katsudon!"

Lunch was spent pleasantly chatting about anything but school work.  Even Tsukishima seemed to relax into the conversation, and managed to get through the entire meal without insulting Kageyama once.  Nakano smiled at him whenever he spoke up, which led to him speaking up more than usual.  Even Hinata noticed.

"Wow, you're being a lot less of a jerk today, Saltyshima!" the ginger boy gushed.  Tsukishima threw him a look.  "Thanks for encouraging me to change that, Shrimp," Tsukishima clapped back, smacking the boy on the head.   "OWWW!"

Nakano laughed.  "Sorry, Shoyo, you earned that one.  That was a very backhanded compliment."

"Say Naka-chan, do you want me to bring out the..." Nakano's mother began.

"NO!" Nakano yelled.  "They need to earn that by doing some more work first."

"Earn what?" asked Tsukishima.

"That special surprise I mentioned," she responded, "At least another hour's worth of work, maybe more, before I let you in on the secret."

In the end, they made it another 80 minutes before Kageyama let his head fall and smack into the table he was working at.  "I can't do anymore.  My brain is full."

"Well that's not surprising," Tsukishima drawled, "in fact, I'm shocked it could hold this much."

Kageyama looked up at him with a glare.

Nakano moved to lean over the blonde.  He shivered a little.  Roses, he thought, as he caught her scent.  "Naughty boys don't get any dessert," she whispered in his ear.  Tsukishima colored rapidly and looked at her.  She stood up and headed towards the door.  "Don't you remember what I promised you?"  She laughed at his almost terrified wide-eyed stare.  "Come on boys, it's break time.  I made you something special."

Tsukishima finally recalled their conversation before the great soda war.  What a time for the filthy side of my brain to assert itself, he thought, the blush on his cheeks deepening a little.  Of course, knowing her, she might well have done that on purpose, just to play with me.  And I'd be lying if I said it wasn't fun.  He caught up to the girl and gave her a smirk.  "Is this what I think it is?"  he asked her, his voice deliberately making the question seem suggestive.

"Finally remembered, did you?" she replied in the same tone, hip-checking him slightly.

Hinata leaned over to Kageyama.  "What are they talking about?"

The setter blushed and replied, "I'm not sure I want to know."

They returned to the kitchen, where Nakano took a big cake container out of the refrigerator.  "Gentlemen, I give you..." she took the top off the container with a flourish, "my grandmother's strawberry shortcake recipe, as made by yours truly.  I hope you like it."

"WOAH!" Hinata gasped, "That looks amazing!"

Tsukishima silently agreed.  He couldn't wait to try it.  Nakano served each of them up a slice and got them some milk to wash it down with.

Hinata took a big bite of his cake, and his face lit up.  "This is sooo good, Naka-chan!"  He set to working on the rest of it with a will.

Kageyama looked around furtively.  "Kags?  Is something wrong?" asked Nakano.

"No," he replied quietly, "I just wanted to tell you I think you make this cake even better than your mom."  She smiled at him.  "Aww, thanks!  I'd forgotten you'd had it before."

Nakano looked expectantly at Tsukishima as he slowly ate his cake.

He had to admit, the cake was extraordinary.  Sweet, but not oppressively so.  And much more strawberry than many shortcakes.  It seemed like there were strawberries cut up into the batter of the cake as well as being in the cream and on the top.  All fresh strawberries too, he was quite certain of that.  He ate the entire thing in silence, savoring every bite.  And still Nakano waited.

"What?"  he asked, his honey-brown eyes sparkling.

"I await your review, oh connoisseur of shortcakes," she replied, her own eyes also twinkling.

He thought a moment.  "My assessment is as I expected.  Your baking skills are only moderately suckish."  He smirked at her.

Kageyama looked daggers at him, and Hinata began to yell.  Nakano held up her hands to stop them.  She fixed Tsukishima with a serious look, and leaned over the table towards him.  "I see," she said, with no hint of a smile.  "Then I guess I will never, ever, make another one of these cakes for you."  She held her serious expression.  "EVER."

He looked into her face, seeking some trace of a joke.  Anything.  A hint of a smirk.  A twinkle in her eye.  Nothing.  His own smirk began to falter as she simply continued to stare at him.  His eyes finally fell to his empty plate.  "But...but...uh..."

"Yes?" she asked.  "Is there something about your assessment you care to change?"  He looked up into her eyes again.  Her face remained serious, but her eyes showed the sparkle he'd come to associate with her sassy sense of humor.  She knows how much I loved it, he thought.  This whole time, she's just been playing with me.  I've never met anyone who could hold their own against me in the smartass department the way she can.  This...this is way too damn much fun.  

He laughed out loud.  Kageyama and Hinata looked completely terrified.  Hinata even backed away from the table and appeared to be preparing to do battle.

"That really was excellent.  I loved it.  It must have taken a long time to make, what with all the strawberries you had to chop up..." Tsukishima and Nakano were suddenly having a friendly and detailed conversation about the making of strawberry shortcakes, like the tension of the last few moments never happened.  Hinata walked over to Kageyama.

"I really don't understand what is happening today," Hinata said.  "Do they like each other, or hate each other?"

Kageyama cocked his head at the pair, who were completely lost in their talk about baking.  "I'm not sure.  Maybe some of each?"

"Should we leave them alone?" Hinata asked.

Kageyama looked uneasy at the idea.  He wasn't sure if they would end up fighting or kissing, and neither prospect pleased him.  "Um...well...I really don't want to study anymore..."

"Me either!  I think we're done for today, right guys?"  Shoyo called out to Tsukishima and Nakano.

Nakano smiled at her orange-haired friend.  "Hey Shoyo...did I mention that I have a volleyball court in my backyard?"

Hinata was practically glowing.  He shook slightly as he said "Nakano...you wouldn't lie to me would you?"

"Nope," she replied, "I've got one.  And we can use it..."

"YEAH!!!"

"...after at least another hour of studying."  Hinata's eyes burned brightly as he said "BRING IT ON!"  He ran towards Nakano's room, with Kageyama following him, yelling at him to be more quiet.

Nakano looked at Tsukki.  "Well that worked,"  she laughed.

Tsukishima gave her a small smile.  "Thanks a lot for making that cake.  It really is the best one I've ever tasted.  I...uh...I hope you'll make it again..."  His voice dropped as he whispered "...for me."  

She smiled fondly at him.  His heart skipped a beat as he took in the look on her face.  "I'm really glad you liked it.  And of course I will.  Anytime."  She stood up.  "Come on, we'd better make sure those two haven't torn my room apart."

The four resumed their work, but Hinata was on edge.  He'd worked hard all day, and knowing there was a volleyball court so close by was a little too much for him.  To his credit, he made it a full 60 minutes before he lost it.

"Please, Nakano!  Can't we play volleyball now?  I don't think I can learn any more today!"  Hinata begged the girl currently quizzing him in History.  

Tsukishima looked over at Nakano, also looking rather haggard.  "I never thought I'd say this, but I agree with the Shrimp.  And the King isn't exactly looking too regal at this point either."  

Kageyama was dead-eye staring at the work in front of him, his hands in his hair, muttering something about being willing to sell his soul if it meant he didn't have to study for exams anymore.  Nakano placed her hands on either side of his head and turned his face to look at her.  "Kags...go to the bathroom and splash some cold water on your face.  We're done.  Let's play a two on two, okay?  You and Shoyo against me and Tsukishima.  How does that sound?"

"Yeah..." Kageyama walked in a daze into the bathroom off of Nakano's room.  "Two on two...sounds like fun..."

"Wait...why are you letting him pair with the Shrimp?  You expect me to block their freak attacks after all these hours of studying?"  Tsukishima looked annoyed.

"Oh, so you'd rather hit Kageyama's sets, would you?"  Nakano raised her eyebrow at him.

"Fair point," Tsukishima replied.

"Kageyama and I are not gonna lose!"  Hinata cried as Kageyama returned from the bathroom, his hair wet.  

"Kags, why don't you show the guys out to the backyard.  I need to change and take the braces off before I can play.  I'll bring some waters with me and meet you guys out there."

Nakano soon joined the boys, carrying four bottles of water.  They were passing the ball among themselves, waiting and warming up.  

"Alright!  Come on, let's play!" Shoyo cried, moving over to the other side of the court.

"How will we keep score?" asked Tsukishima.

"Sorry, no scoreboard.  We keep count in our heads, or we just play until we don't feel like it anymore." Nakano said.  

Tsukishima looked at the girl.  "Do you have any idea how long that could be with those two on the court?  We could be here until next weekend."

"I did tell you what might happen if we did this at my place," she replied.  "Come on, Kags, serve it up."

Kageyama and Hinata dominated at first, but Tsukishima and Nakano soon found a rhythm that worked well for them.  With only two players on each side, strategy soon became more important than hard spikes and powerful blocks.  The two blondes had the advantage of both being clever observers and seemed to have an almost innate sense of communication with one another.  They soon began to be able to both score points on the freak duo as well as prevent them from scoring quite so often.  Kageyama and Hinata took the first set, but Tsukishima and Nakano took the second.  The third set would decide it.

"Where are we, Shoyo?" Nakano called out as she prepared to serve.

"Match point for you!  24 to 23."

First full game I've played in...well...forever, she thought.  I'm enjoying it, but I'm also about done.  I wonder if I can put this away right here.  She prepared for the serve as Tsukki looked at her.  She caught his eye and made a subtle flat smacking motion with her right hand directly in front of herself.  He raised an eyebrow at her.  She nodded.  They were ready.

She served the ball.  Kageyama received and went straight into a setup for Hinata, who took the shot cross court.  Tsukki was ready and received, but instead of just passing it to Nakano, he set her up for the kill.  She flew into the air, and this time, it felt right.  

Kageyama yelled out, and started to move toward Nakano as she spiked the ball down.  Maybe not as powerful as I once was, she thought, but that will come in time.  She watched as Hinata tried to receive but couldn't control it.  And then, she focused on her landing.  She felt her feet hit the surface of the court, and she let her legs move on instinct to absorb the force of the impact.  

She landed, and stayed upright on her feet.

"YEAH!!!" Nakano threw her fist into the air.  She then started to laugh and cheer.  "OH MAN, THAT FELT AMAZING!!"

"You did it, Naka-chan!"  Shoyo cheered, "You spiked it like FWOOM!  And it went POW! And...hey wait a minute, we lost, Kageyama!  Awww, man!  Let's play again!"

Kageyama walked over to Nakano.  His face was an odd mix of excitement and concern.  "Did you just try that out of the blue?  Have you been able to spike before?"

Nakano gave him the  most dazzling smile.  "Nope!  First time!  I've been training jumps forever but this was the first honest-to-gosh real spike!"  She offered him her fist, and they did their best-friend hug, squeezing each other crazy tight.  

"Tsukki!" She sang out as she ran over to him, offering him a high ten.  "Thanks for trusting in me to take that hit!"  Her smile seemed to add more light to the already brilliant day.  He could look at that smile forever.

"Nice kill," he said, completing the high ten and giving her a smile in return.  It was then he noticed that she was beginning to tremble.  "Woah," he said, putting an arm around her shoulders and holding her hand, "I think you'd better sit down, Nakano."  He led her over to one of the benches.

"Are you alright?" Kageyama asked following the two.  Shoyo came running along behind.

"Yeah, adrenaline rush, mostly," she said.  "Sorry, Shoyo.  I'd love to play again, but I think I'm done for today."  Tsukishima settled her on the bench and sat next to her.  

"Make yourself useful, King, and grab those water bottles," Tsukishima said.

"Right," Kageyama ran to get the waters, handing them out, starting with Nakano.

Nakano murmured a thanks and downed some water.  Kageyama and Hinata plopped themselves on the grass and the four sat together, drinking water and chatting about the game they had played, until Nakano declared that she was feeling much better.  

"I guess we should probably be heading out," Kageyama said.  "Thanks a lot for today, Nakano."

"Yeah," Shoyo chimed in, "this was awesome!"

"You're welcome!  I hope it helped!  And..."  She prompted.

"What?" Kageyama asked.

"Shouldn't you be thanking Tsukishima too?"   She gave them both a look that told them this was not really a question.  The blonde middle blocker smirked at them.

Kageyama and Hinata looked at each other and shrugged.  They bowed in Tsukishima's direction.  "Thank you for helping us," they both intoned with limited enthusiasm.  

"Well that was less than impressive," Nakano complained at them.  "Tsukki worked hard too, and he also deserves proper thanks.  You thanked me very nicely, so I'll let you off the hook.  But Tsukki...what if they were to each take a turn at buying you meat buns after practice?"  She looked at him, her eyes twinkling.

He fought the urge to laugh.  "I guess that would be acceptable.  Though I reserve the right to choose some other snack at the time - I might not always be in the mood for a meat bun."

Kageyama was giving Nakano a look that spoke volumes.  "A small price to pay for expert tutoring help, I'd say."  She smiled at him.  

"Fine," Kageyama growled.

"Yeah, I guess it's only fair," Hinata said, "Stingyshima was actually pretty helpful today."

"Come on, dumbass, let's get our stuff,"  Kageyama headed back towards the house with Hinata in tow, "Next time we're getting someone else to help us," he complained.

Tsukishima and Nakano both chuckled as they walked behind them.  "Hey," she whispered to him, "don't leave just yet, okay?"  He glanced at her and nodded.

Kageyama and Hinata gathered their things and prepared to leave.  Nakano gave both boys a hug and thanked them for a great day.  "I can't believe you betrayed your own brother like that," Kageyama whispered to her with a crooked smile.  "I can't believe you can't behave better," she teased him back.  

"Thank you both!" Shoyo called as they headed out.

"See you tomorrow at practice!" Nakano said as she closed the door.

"So what's up?" Tsukishima asked.

"Come on, I think we've earned another treat." She led him to the kitchen, where they quickly grabbed two more slices of strawberry shortcake and two strawberry sodas.  They were soon in the backyard again, lying on the grass in the sunshine.

"This is becoming a habit," Tsukishima said, digging in to his cake.

"Approved," the girl responded, "Let's make this a habit indeed."

The two enjoyed their favorite cake in silence.  Once they'd finished, Nakano rolled onto her side to look at the middle blocker.

"So, are you feeling better?"

"Huh?" 

"When you came in today, I could tell you were feeling nervous.  It was all over your face.  Not to mention the way you moved.  If I had to guess, I'd say you were worried about how things would be today.  If we could still be friends like before."

He looked at her in shock.  How can she read me so well? And if she can, he thought, how come she hasn't said anything?  

She gave him an embarrassed smile.  "I've always been good at reading people.  Tobio says it's part of why I'm such a good setter.  I can read what my opponent is doing, but I myself give nothing away."  Her smile turned sad, and she looked down.

"Nakano?"  She turned back to him at the sound of her name, once again smiling.

"Tsukki, I promised I wouldn't push, and yet I seem to keep doing so.  I'm sorry."

"No...you...you're not.  You really have nothing to apologize for.  If anything....I should probably be apologizing to you."

"If you're worrying that you're going to hurt me, put it out of your mind.  I will be just fine, whatever you decide.  We're friends, and that is not going to change."

He stared into her blue eyes.  "How are you so brave?"  The question just slipped out of him, and after it did, he covered his mouth with his hand.

She laughed.  "Tsukki, it's not bravery.  It's selfishness."

"I don't understand how you can think anything you've said is selfish."

"Oh?  You asked me if it was odd for me to have friends round.  It's more than odd.  It doesn't happen.  I don't really have any friends to speak of, beyond the team.  Tobio has been the only friend I've had to visit in years.  I don't really make friends very easily.  And so...when I do make one...like you...I'm not really very willing to give them up."  She rolled on to her back, looking up at the sky.  "I...acted way too impulsively that day.  Way too selfishly.  I didn't think about how you might feel.  Suddenly in that moment, I understood what I was feeling, and all I could think of was that I wanted to show you how I felt.  I know there may be a price to pay for that, and I'll pay it, if that's what has to happen.  But I won't give up on having you as a friend Tsukki.  I'm sorry, but I'm just too selfish to give up on a close friend once I've made one."  She sighed.

He sat up, looking at her.  He opened his mouth, but words wouldn't come.  She's been so hurt, that's obvious, he thought, but she still takes the risk.  And somehow thinks that's a flaw.  What the hell is wrong with me?  Why can't I do the same for her?  He shut his mouth again, unable to voice his feelings to her. 

"So, I hope you feel a little better, after today.  It was awfully fun for me, I hope it was for you too."

"Yeah, actually.  It kinda was.  Especially the strawberry shortcake parts."

She laughed.  "Would you like to take some home?  I shouldn't keep it all here...I'll end up eating it."

"Well...how about you keep it here and I come get some every now and then?"  He smiled at her.

She returned the smile.  "Sounds like a plan."

🏐🏐🏐

It had a been a great day.  Tsukishima had gone home after helping Nakano tidy up her room, leaving her alone to think back on how much fun it had all been.  Even spending time alone with Tsukki had been fun, as well as a mix of sad and frustrating.  My own fault, she thought, that's what I get for letting my emotions run away with me.  As more time continued to pass, she tried to prepare herself for the possibility that Tsukki simply was not able to accept her feelings.  She hoped, given his reactions today, that he'd still be willing to be good friends with her.

It was near sunset again, and despite having played a full game of volleyball that afternoon, Nakano was feeling restless.  She got ready for a run, this time being sure her mom knew she was leaving and how long she planned to be gone.  She grabbed her phone, but once again left the headphones behind...this time deliberately.

I shouldn't assume he'll be playing guitar again just because it's about the same time of day, she thought as she jogged along, but man do I want him to be.

She took a loop through the neighborhood, trying not to rush, remembering that it was near to twilight when she'd happened upon the Tsukishima residence last time.  

As she finally allowed her steps to take her towards his house, she strained her ears, trying to catch the sound of his playing or his warm, rich voice.

And then she did.  Sure enough, there was Tsukki, once again in front of his open bedroom window, strumming on his guitar.  He looked like he was recently out of the shower, as his hair seemed to shimmer and was clearly wet.  She stopped, staring, her breath caught in her throat.  

He was about to look down.

She dropped to her knees, trying to blend in with the bushes around his yard.  He started playing something that once again sounded familiar.

"What'll you do when you get lonely?
And nobody's waiting by your side?
You've been running and hiding much too long
You know it's just your foolish pride"

His voice sounded husky, as if he'd been using it too much.  Or perhaps, because it was full of emotion.  Nakano's mouth dropped open.

"Layla
You've got me on my knees, Layla
I'm begging, darling please, Layla
Darling won't you ease my worried mind"

Does he know the origin of this song?  She wondered.  He has to know.  The Eagles, Eric Clapton, he's clearly got a thing for great guitar players.  He's got to know.

"I tried to give you consolation
When your old man had let you down
Like a fool, I fell in love with you
You've turned my whole world upside down"

"Layla
You've got me on my knees, Layla
I'm begging, darling please, Layla
Darling won't you ease my worried mind"

"Let's make the best of the situation
Before I finally go insane
Please don't say, we'll never find a way
And tell me all my love's in vain"

"Layla
You've got me on my knees, Layla
I'm begging, darling please, Layla
Darling won't you ease my worried mind"

"Layla
You've got me on my knees, Layla
I'm begging, darling please, Layla
Darling won't you ease my worried mind"

"Layla
You've got me on my knees, Layla
I'm begging, darling please, Layla
Darling won't you ease my worried mind"

She stayed there as the sky darkened, staring up at him as he closed the window and went away.  Tears slid down her face.  You've got me on my knees too, Tsukki, she thought, please let me be your Layla.  You don't even have to win me away from some other man.  I'm ready to be yours.  I just hope that song is telling me how you feel.  

She shook her head to clear it, and got back on her feet.  She knew she couldn't take that as a confession.  He most likely had no idea she was here.  And it was entirely possible he was simply a fan of Eric Clapton.  She jogged her way home, still hoping in her heart that he had sung the song about her.

Chapter Text

Over the next few days, Tsukishima and Nakano continued their new habit of strawberry shortcake and soda in the backyard.  Some evenings Tsukki would come over early enough to visit properly, sometimes the two would text late and meet up outside, Nakano slipping out her bedroom window with their evening snack.  They spent several pleasant hours just talking and sharing their favorite treat.  Nakano learned Tsukishima lived with his mom and also had an older brother named Akiteru that for some reason he didn't want to talk about much.  Tsukishima learned that Nakano's older sister Amalie was attending Tohoku University but still came home to visit every so often, and her dad was a naval captain serving on a deployed ship.  She very much missed her dad, but she wasn't too willing to talk about her mother or sister.  He told her the story of how he first met Tadashi.  She told him the tale of her dating and breaking up with Oikawa.  They talked about their favorite things, things that bugged them, things they wanted to do in the future, their teammates, school, music, and all the other things two teenagers might focus on. 

Finally, one evening, Nakano texted Tsukishima around 10pm.

Queen Setter  🏐
Still awake?

Sassyshima 😏
Yeah.

Queen Setter 🏐
Last two pieces of the cake are waiting. 🍰 Wanna meet in the yard?

Sassyshima 😏
OMW

Nakano smiled and gathered the cakes and sodas, heading out her window to the bench they usually sat on when they met up late at night.  Tsukki sat down next to her a few minutes later and accepted a slice of cake with a smile.

"Last two slices, huh?"  He asked, taking a small bite of his cake.

She sighed.  "Yep.  Guess this is the end of our habit, at least for a little while."

The two enjoyed their cake in silence for a few moments.  Then Tsukishima spoke up.  "So, should I get my mom to buy one from the bakery, or do you want to bake another one?"  

Nakano laughed.  "Do you enjoy this that much?"

He dropped his eyes, color rising to his cheeks.  "Actually, I kinda do."

She put a hand on his shoulder.  "We don't have to eat cake to meet up, you know," she chuckled, "in fact, it would probably be better for us if we didn't."

He gave her his signature smirk.  "Yeah...but where's the fun in that?"  

The pair laughed and proceeded to chat about recent events - the tutoring sessions for Kageyama, Hinata, Nishinoya and Tanaka, practice, things happening with the team, the upcoming exams and the Tokyo trip.  As they finished their cakes and started in on their sodas, silence fell between them again.  Somehow, the silence between them never felt uncomfortable.  

"Nakano?"

"Yes, Tsukki?"

"Can I ask you something?"

She smiled at him. "You don't have to ask me if you can ask me things anymore, Tsukki.  We're friends.  You can ask me anything you like, any time.  What's on your mind?"

"Why me?"

She met his eyes.  She knew what he was asking, and she answered without hesitation. "I feel a connection with you I've never felt with anyone else.  You get me, somehow.  I mean, don't get me wrong, there's a physical attraction, of course, but that's not the most compelling part for me."  Suddenly, she looked away, feeling almost shy.  Her voice became soft.  "I know you're aware that there's...a lot...I don't share with anyone.  I've got a feeling like...maybe...I could share those things with you someday, if you'd let me.  I don't know why, and believe me, it won't be easy.  But you're the first person I've ever met who made me think I might like to try."  Her cheeks were hot, and it took all her concentration to stop the tears that were forming in her eyes.  Dammit, I will not be so weak, she thought, I want this to work out between us, but I won't let his decision be swayed by tears and crap like that.  I want it to be his choice, not something he does out of pity.

"Hey," he said, "Look at me."  She took a deep breath, smiled, and looked up. "I'm sorry I've made you wait this long," he said, struggling a little to keep his eyes focused on her.  "Can I ask you to wait just a little bit longer?" He sighed.  "I know that's not very fair of me.  I just..."

"Tsukki, you don't have to ask.  I will wait as long as you need me to."  She fixed him with a sassy smile.  "Hold on a second...did you just apologize to me?"

He downed the rest of his soda and smirked back at her.  "Couldn't be.  You must be hearing things.  Better get your ears checked."  

She shoulder-checked him.  "Salty jackass,"  she chuckled.

"Yep," he replied, standing up, "Guess I'd better get home...you need some rest too."

She gathered up the leavings from their evening snack.  "See you tomorrow, Tsukki.  Thanks for these evenings - I've really enjoyed them."

"Me too.  Goodnight, Nakano."  He headed off home.  As he did, he thought, one more thing.  I need to ask the King one more question.  Once I hear his answer, I'm going to tell her, one way or the other.

🏐🏐🏐

Afternoon practice was in full swing.  Individual practice time was underway, and Daichi observed his team with a critical eye.  Well, he was observing one member of the team more often than the others, and not because of volleyball.

Today, Sugawara was in a quiet conversation with Nishinoya.  Yesterday, it had been Hinata, and right afterward Hinata had thrown himself all over Nakano and demanded that she toss to him for the better part of the next hour.  The day before, Suga had spent an inordinate amount of time talking to Kinoshita, who then turned around and engaged Tsukishima in conversation as much as he could for the latter half of practice.  And of course, Asahi had been Suga's first victim.  Daichi watched in irritation as Nishinoya ran over to Nakano and practically pounced on the girl, begging her to set for Asahi, Tanaka, and Hinata who agreed to spike for him so he could do some receives.  Daichi glanced at Tsukishima, whose hands were now clenched into fists.  He looked back over to Nakano and saw that Noya had his arm around the girl's waist.

"I'm gonna buy you some ice cream after today's practice - because I'm an awesome senpai!"  Noya beamed at her.

She chuckled.  "Thanks, Noya-senpai," she said, "but you don't have to do that."  She disengaged herself from his arm and headed over to grab a volleyball.  He chased after her, declaring that buying ice cream was a good senpai's job.  Daichi turned again and watched Tsukishima shake his head and forcibly relax his hands.

Daichi walked over to Sugawara, who turned a brilliant smile on him.

"Hey Daichi!  What's up?"

He put an arm around Suga's shoulders.  "Suga, let's have a little chat, shall we?"

"Is there a problem, Captain?"

"I'd really like you to stop messing with our first years, okay?"

"Messing with them?" Suga gave Daichi his best innocent look, "I'm not messing with anyone at all!  Why on Earth would you think that of me?"

Daichi lowered his voice and fixed Suga with a stern stare.  "Because I know you all too well, Sugawara Koshi.  You're doing your best to try to get Tsukishima and Nakano together, aren't you?"

"Not at all.  I'm just trying to help Tsukishima make a decision.  Nakano has already made her feelings known.  I'm not trying to force them together in any way."

"Suga, can't you just let them work this out on their own?  Do you have to make trouble in the team...and drag half of the rest of them into it to boot?"

"Daichi, are you saying that team members dating each other is prohibited?"

"No, Suga, that is not what I am saying.  But I do wish you'd use practice time to focus on practice and less on matchmaking!" Daichi whisper-yelled.

Suga chuckled, and then directed Daichi to look at Tsukishima.  "Look at him, Daichi.  We both know he can play a lot better than he does right now.  He doesn't give it his all.  Nakano is passionate about volleyball.  I think she can help Tsukishima find his own passion for the game.  I know you think I'm just trying to play Cupid here, but honestly, I think she can help him become a better player, which is better for the team.  So, really, everything I'm doing, I'm doing to help us win at Nationals."  

Daichi looked at the silver-haired setter.  "Suga," he said seriously, "I think that is the most..." He tried to stay serious.  He really did.  He failed.  "...ridiculous attempt to justify being all up in other people's business that I've ever heard!"  He completely cracked up.

Suga laughed as well.  "Didn't fool you for a second, huh?"

"Nope," Daichi wiped the tears from his eyes, "I've known you for too long.  Look..."

"Don't worry, Daichi, I'm done.  I think I've done everything I can.  The next move is gonna have to be Tsukishima's."

🏐🏐🏐

Daichi called for a 15 minute break.  Tsukishima walked over to Kageyama.  "Oi, King," he said, catching the setter's eye, "got a minute?"  He tossed Kageyama a water bottle and started walking out of the gym.  Kageyama followed.

"What do you want, four eyes?"

"I need to ask you something."

"It better be about Nakano.  When are you going stop stalling and answer her?"

"It is.  Look...you said she didn't blame you for things you did even though you hurt her.  Can you tell me what that was about?"

Kageyama sighed.  "Fine.  After her accident...I distanced myself from her.  I was stupid.  I listened to Oikawa who said she needed to be alone, which of course was complete bullshit.  But that was just an excuse.  I... I didn't know how to talk to her after something like that, and it was easier for me to stay away.  So I did.  I was a jerk.  She never once blamed me for that, even though she had every right to.  I don't know everything that happened when she and Oikawa broke up, but I get the feeling he told her what he was doing to me...how he was messing with all the relationships I had, including hers and mine.  But even if she never knew that, I know she never would have blamed me.  She never blames anyone else...unless they give her a damn good reason to."

Tsukishima looked at the raven-haired boy in shock.  "What?" Kageyama asked, "You asked, I told you.  Why are you looking at me like that?"

"I...I honestly didn't think you would answer me, or at the very least, that you'd give me a hard time about it."

"Look, you ass," Kageyama glared at him, "I don't know why, but out of the 11 other guys on this team, Nakano decided she wants to be with you.  So I am doing my best to support her.  She cares about your crappy self, don't even ask me why.  But she does.  And she deserves happiness.  So if you can make her happy, I will support that.  But if you can't, for crying out loud tell her so and let her move on to someone who can."

"Why isn't she with you?  You're obviously very close.  What's keeping you from dating her?"

"That's not how we feel about one another."

"How do you know?"

"We talked it all out."  Kageyama felt absolutely no need to share the story of their kiss with Tsukishima.  If Nakano felt he needed to know, she would tell him.

"How...how did you do that?  Weren't you afraid you might lose her?  What if you had both felt different ways?  What if she had hurt you?"

"Yeah...that was all possible," Kageyama thought back to the days leading up to his talk with Nakano.  He looked Tsukishima over.  Maybe, he thought, this guy's been hurt before.  It would explain a lot of things.  Doesn't give him the right to keep hurting her, though.  "You can't deal with stuff like this without taking the risk of someone getting hurt.  But ask yourself this, Shittyshima," Kageyama stared at him right in the eyes.  "What's worse?  Taking the chance that maybe, someday, you might get hurt?  Or taking no chance, and missing out on what could be the best thing to ever happen to you?  Ask yourself how you'd feel if you saw her happy in Ennoshita's arms."  

Tsukishima's eyes widened, and his hands clenched.  "Does he..."

"No, I just picked someone to force the visual on you.  Judging by your reaction..."

Tsukishima looked away.  Kageyama scoffed, and started walking back to the gym.  He stopped just past the blonde, calling back to him.

"I've kept out of this as best I can, because Nakano asked me not to interfere.  But if you don't do something, and soon, I'm gonna do everything I can to make sure she forgets about you and moves on.  You don't deserve her.  Hell, neither do I.  But I'm not gonna make the same mistake twice and distance myself from her again.  You're supposed to be so damn smart...let's see if you can manage to avoid my mistake."

He walked back into the gym, leaving Tsukishima to his thoughts.  Standing there in the afternoon sunlight, he came to a decision at last.

🏐🏐🏐

It was approaching sunset again when Nakano set out for an evening run.

She'd done this every day since she first stumbled upon the Tsukishima residence and heard Tsukki playing guitar.  She'd not heard him play since his cover of Eric Clapton, and that was quite a few days ago.  Nevertheless, she set out every evening, hoping she'd be lucky enough to get a private concert once again.

She kept telling herself the run was good for her.  Maybe it even was.  But what she really wanted was to hear him sing.  His voice was downright amazing.

I can't keep on this way, she thought as she ran, it's been at least two weeks now, in fact, I think it's been more.  Tobio hasn't said anything yet...but he will.  I can see it in his face.  He's going to start telling me I should move on and forget about Tsukki...at least, as anything more than a friend and teammate.

Maybe...maybe he's right.  It's been a while since I let him know how I feel, and he still hasn't been able to give me an answer.  Maybe I should just accept that he's willing to be friends but not any more than that.  We still get along great.  I can learn to be happy with just being friends.  

But Tobio didn't hear him singing 'Layla,' her mind supplied, Tobio hasn't seen the way he is when we are alone together in the backyard, eating strawberry shortcake.  He's almost...tender... in those moments.  Like he wants to reach out to me, but something inside holds him back.

He asked me to wait just a little longer, she decided.  I promised him he could take all the time he needed.  If Tobio starts complaining about it...well, I'll deal with that when it comes.  It's not really that hard to wait.  I've waited for things for far longer than this.

Guitar music.

Lost in her thoughts, she'd almost jogged right past Tsukishima's house.  The soft strains of his guitar snapped her out of her head, and she looked up to see him once again by his open window.  She quietly hid herself in the bushes and listened.  Slowly, his playing increased in volume as he began a song.

"I'm not a perfect person"

Hoobastank's 'The Reason', she thought.  Moving up to something a little more modern.  It suits him.

"There's many things I wish I didn't do
But I continue learning
I never meant to do those things to you
And so, I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know"

His voice sounded thick with emotion, as if he were singing these words just to her.  

"I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
And the reason is you"

I wish I were the reason, Tsukki, she thought.  I wish you knew I could hear you.  

"I'm sorry that I hurt you
It's something I must live with everyday
And all the pain I put you through
I wish that I could take it all away
And be the one who catches all your tears
That's why I need you to hear"

Nakano was surprised to discover she had tears rolling down her cheeks.  She covered her mouth, trying to make sure she made no sound.

"I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
And the reason is you
I'm not a perfect person
I never meant to do those things to you
And so I have to say before I go
That I just want you to know
I've found a reason for me
To change who I used to be
A reason to start over new
And the reason is you
I've found a reason to show
A side of me you didn't know
A reason for all that I do
And the reason is you"

As the last chords of the song faded away, Nakano tried to pull herself together.  She hadn't expected to become so emotional.  Taking a deep breath, she watched him move away from the window.  Suddenly, a piece of paper came fluttering down out of the window he'd just vacated.  She stared at it, surprised.  Did it just get swept out with a gust of air, she wondered, or did he drop it deliberately?  Part of her wanted to know, and part of her didn't.  In the end, the temptation was just too much.  She got up and walked over to pick up the fallen paper.

Turning it over, she read in Tsukki's neat handwriting:

'I hope you liked it.  I learned it over the last couple of days, so I could sing it for you.

Stay behind after practice with me tomorrow afternoon.

I think we've got a lot to talk about.'

She looked up to his window, tears falling down once again.  The window was closed, and he was gone.  Nakano walked slowly home, a hopeful smile coming across her face. 

Chapter Text

My alarm wakes me up from a rather lovely dream.  A dream that maybe, later today, I might be able to make a reality.  

After my decision to talk to Nakano today, I've felt surprisingly calm.  I had assumed that upon deciding to take the chance and ask Nakano to go out with me, I'd be all kinds of crazy nervous and worried.  It seems to have had the opposite effect.  It's like having finally decided to move forward, all the tension has left.  I'm...excited?  Anticipatory.  That's a better word.  I'm eager to talk to her, now that I've made the decision.  I have to make it through the day with her right nearby, and then through practice.  I want this day to get done so we can talk it all over.

The usual morning routine.  A shower, dress, gather the things I need for school today, eat breakfast.  Well, such as it is.  I'm generally not much of a breakfast person.  But I do try to eat something, or I get really hungry long before lunch, and that just makes me irritated.  I don't want to be irritated today.  Despite what people seem to think, I don't enjoy being irritated.  That's why it's called being irritated.  No one likes that.

I've been thinking since yesterday about what to say, and how to say it.  I think I've got a plan, of sorts, but some of it is going to depend on Nakano.  After all, this is about both of us.  I want to hear how she's feeling.  I want to tell her how I'm feeling.  I know she heard me sing 'Layla' and 'The Reason.'  But now, I want the the chance to talk with her about what those feelings mean.

Damn, this is crazy.  What the hell is happening to me?  And why the hell do I kinda like it?  

The one thing that makes me feel like maybe this all isn't so bad is the fact that she can be just as salty as I am.  I don't think I could deal with a girl who didn't have the backbone to stand up to me once in a while.  I mean, I know I can be...direct.  Okay, I can be a real jackass.  Sometimes on purpose, and sometimes not.  But I know myself well enough to know it's true.  And yet, she doesn't seem to be bothered by that.  In fact, I think sometimes she actually enjoys the sparring as much as I do.  And she's not afraid to call me on it when it gets out of hand or isn't the right time.  I think that's one of the things I like most about her.

I don't see her on the way in to Karasuno, but that's not entirely unusual.  I know she often has early physical therapy, or sometimes she goes for a morning run.  I still wonder why she pushes herself so hard.  Well, I know why...I just don't understand the motivation.  Part of why I'm eager to talk to her is because...well, she hinted at the idea that if we got together, she'd be able to share more of her story with me.  I know it will likely take some time, but I want to know all about her.  I want to understand her.  And I think that, more than anything, finally decided it for me.  If this was all just physical, I'd see no point in that.  Don't get me wrong, Nakano is beautiful, and I'm sure the physical side of our relationship will be...amazing.  But she even said it herself.  That's not the most compelling thing to me, either.

Tadashi is up ahead.  My guess is we are going to have a discussion, based on the look on his face.  I've haven't told him about my intentions yet.  I bet he's gonna be amazed when I tell him.

"Hey Tsukki!"

"Morning, Tadashi."

He falls in step next to me.  I'm not saying anything until he asks.

"Uh...Tsukki?"

"Yeah?"

"Um...well...I was...uh..."

"Spit it out, Tadashi."

"Well, I heard Kageyama talking to Hinata yesterday..."

"Oh?  Did the King have anything interesting to say?"

"He was saying that he's gonna talk to Nakano soon...about...uh..."

"About me?"

"Yeah.  He's gonna tell her that she..."

"I'm going to talk to her today."

His face just brightened up.  "Really?  You're finally going to ask her out, huh?"

Wait a minute...how did he know I would decide to ask her out?  "What makes you think I'm going to ask her out?"

He stopped.  He's staring at me.  What the heck?  He's giving me this don't-be-such-an-ass face.

"Tsukki, be serious.  You've been obsessing about her for weeks now.  I've been trying to convince you to just go ahead and ask her out for almost that long!  I hope you're asking her out today, or I'm going to be really upset."

Well, damn Tadashi.  He actually looks somewhat upset with me.    How surprising.  "Well, I was thinking of asking her out...but now maybe I should rethink that plan..."

"WHAT!?"

Gotcha, Tadashi.  I smirk at him.  He sees my face and chuckles.  

"You had me going there, Tsukki.  So, when are you gonna talk to her?"

"After practice today."

"Cool." 

Why does Tadashi seem so happy about this?  He seems...satisfied somehow.  I'm not sure how I feel about this.  Ugh, whatever.  I'm not going to worry about it.  I don't want to have other things on my mind later today.  

I was expecting to see her when we got to the classroom but she isn't in her seat.  I don't see any of her things either.  Okay, Nakano, what the heck.  Don't make me nervous.  Not today, of all days.

Yamaguchi is nervous too.  We're both watching the door, but Nakano doesn't come in.  Our sensei arrives and begins class - still no Nakano.  Tadashi gives me a worried look, but we have to concentrate on class.

Twenty minutes into class, the door at the front of the classroom opens.  It's her.  She's walking behind her chair, but she is moving really slowly.  Like she's hurting.  It's taking every ounce of my will to not jump up and rush over to her.  What the hell happened?

She bows as she approaches our teacher.  "I apologize for my tardiness, sensei."  She hands her a piece of paper, which she reads.

"Oh, of course, Ogawa-san.  Yamaguchi-san, would you please assist Ogawa to her seat?  Thank you."  Our teacher calls on Yamaguchi, and he jumps up and heads to Nakano.  I can't take it, I stand up too, waiting at her seat.  I can see Tadashi whispering to Nakano as they walk.  As soon as she is close, I move to take her chair away so Tadashi can help her sit. "Are you alright?"

"Yeah," she whispers back, "Rough session this morning.  Tell ya all about it at lunch."

Now that I can see her closer, she's moving like she's sore all over, but I don't think she's in any real significant pain.  Lunchtime can't come soon enough though.  For now,  I've got to pay attention.  Today would not be a good day to end up with detention.

🏐🏐🏐

When the bell sounds for lunch, Nakano stands up, like we're going to go to the gym.  "Oh no," I say, "I don't care if it is Thursday.  You're not doing a workout today, Nakano."

She gives me a half-amused, half-serious glare.  But before she can say anything, Tadashi speaks up.  "I've got to agree with Tsukki on this one.  Why don't we just have lunch here?"

She shakes her head.  "Boys, I am not made of glass.  I got this.  But, you are right about one thing - I don't plan to work out today.  But I would like to stretch and treat my legs.  I'd much rather do that somewhere private than here in the classroom, if you don't mind."  She starts walking over to her chair, but I stop her.

"Nakano - not today.  I mean it."

She stares right into my eyes.  Damn, her eyes are so blue.  "Tsukishima, have I ever lied to you?  Ever broken a promise?  I swear it - no workout.  You and Yams can even come in the storage room with me.  But I really do need to stretch and treat my legs, or things will only hurt worse later today.  Besides, it's nice out and I'd like to spend a little time in the Sun."

I sigh.  I guess I can't very well not trust her and then ask her out later.  "Okay," I say, "but at least let me help you get your chair."

She chuckles as I bring her the chair and Yamaguchi grabs her things.  "You guys...thanks.  Come on, let's go eat."

"Should I push you?" I ask.  Why do I get the feeling she will absolutely not let me push her?

She gives me a mischievous smile.  "Why?  Do you think you can get us there faster than I can walk?"

"Is that a challenge?" I smirk at her.  Oh, it's going to be that kind of day, is it?

"Do it," she says, sitting in the chair and giving me back a smirk that matches my own.  

"Uh guys...how would we even..."  But now we can't hear Tadashi as I'm running and pushing Nakano down the hall.  He's chasing us, she's laughing, and this is just about the stupidest thing I've ever done.  I bring us to a skidding stop at the exit to the gym path as the vice principal comes in through the doors we are about to go out.

"Excuse us, sir," I bow to the vice principal as he holds open the door for us.  Nakano looks like she is going to explode, but somehow manages to keep it together.  

"Headed outside for some fresh air at lunch, I see, excellent."  His toupee is dangerously close to slipping off his head.  Tadashi comes dashing up, gasping for air.  "Young man!  Slow down!" the vice principal barks at Yamaguchi, "Have some decorum like your friends here." He indicates Nakano and I.  That's almost it for me...I have to bite the inside of my cheek to keep from laughing out loud.  I think Nakano has tears in her eyes.  

"S-s-sorry, sir...I was trying to catch up to them."  Yamaguchi bows as the vice principal heads inside.  The three of us manage to take about 6 more steps before we completely crack up.

"What were you guys thinking?" Tadashi asks, laughing along with us.  

"That it's a good day to have a little fun!" Nakano says.  "Come on, let's go eat!  I'm starving!"

Over lunch, Nakano tells us about the intense physical therapy session she had in the morning.  It sounds like her therapists are trying to kill her, I swear.  She assured us that it's all part of her doctor's orders and that she'll be fine.  Maybe one of these days she'll let me come with her to a therapy session.  The way she describes it, it sounds like part medical exam, part sports training, and part medieval torture.  One thing I'm glad to see...Nakano has a pretty big lunch with her today.  I get the feeling she knew today's session might be a rough one.  

"Alright boys, I meant what I said.  Do you want to join me in the storage room, or would you rather stay out here in the sunshine?"

I want to go with her.  But maybe she'd rather be alone.  I don't want to seem like I'm...I dunno...following her around like a puppy.  That would be entirely lame.

"Let's all go together," Yams says, standing up.  I look at his face, and he's smiling.  At me.  Tadashi, why do I get the feeling you knew what I was thinking?  

We all head inside the gym.  "Hey...do you have to be in the storage room?  Couldn't you just use the gym?  At least, there's more space," I suggest.

"I guess that's true - hit the lights Tadashi."  Nakano sits herself down with her bag, drapes her jacket over her legs and begins to remove her braces as Tadashi turns on some lights.  I sit down nearby.  

"Hey Naka-chan?"  Tadashi sits down next to her.

"Yeah, Yams?"

"How come you still won't let us see your legs?"  He asks her.  

She gives him a sad smile.  "I'm sorry, Yams.  It's not that I don't trust you guys.  I'm just not ready for you to see them yet."

I've looked at her legs in class.  She's right, it really is hard to see anything of them past the braces.  But from what I can tell, her scars are not that bad.  I don't think it's physical scars she's trying to keep us from seeing.  "It's not really about scars, is it?"  Damn.  That just literally fell out of my mouth.  What is she, like some kind of truth drug?

Her face registers a little shock, then returns to that sad smile.  "You're right, Tsukki, it really isn't about the scars.  I..."  She takes a deep breath and looks down.  When she looks up again, she's got that smile on her face that she uses to hide her feelings.  I'm already learning that when that smile shows up, her defenses are active.  I'm going to break that smile one day.  I don't want her to hide from me anymore.  "I don't want you guys to see my legs as weak.  I don't want you to see them as broken.  When I show them to you at last, I want you to see them as strong."

"Nakano, I don't think any of us could ever see anything about you as weak or broken," Tadashi says.

"I know, Yams." She's stretching as best she can, trying to keep her legs hidden.  

"Would it be easier for you if Yamaguchi and I turned away for a few minutes?"  I want her to know I respect how she feels, even if I plan to do my best to change it.

Her smile becomes warm, her genuine one.  "No, you're fine.  I'm going to start massaging them in a minute anyway.  The medication will probably help more than the stretching."

We chat a little while longer as Nakano treats her legs.  Just pleasant conversation among friends - nothing of real consequence.  Mostly about the practice match against Ougi West this afternoon.  When she's done, we walk calmly back to class.  Half the day over.  A few more hours of class, a practice match, and then, she and I will finally have a chance to really talk.

🏐🏐🏐

Practice went really well.  I thought I might be distracted, but I wasn't.  If anything, I feel less distracted now than I did when I was still trying to figure out what to do.  Interesting.

The game against Ougi West was good.  Nothing too out of the ordinary.  Well, just one thing, really, and it had nothing to do with the game.  One of things I like about Nakano is that she's not overly...girly.  But apparently get a sufficient critical mass of girl in one place and any girl succumbs.  That critical mass appears to be three.

At one point, a burst of giggling distracted several of us, including me.  I looked over to see Nakano, Kiyoko and Yachi in a little knot, with Nakano clearly embarrassed.  To her credit, she seemed to brush them off and get back to what she was doing...but she did giggle.  A lot.  I guess it was kinda cute.  But I hope this doesn't become a regular thing.  Not to mention Daichi had to physically restrain Tanaka and Noya from running over and mauling all three of the girls.  Why are there so many lunatics on our team?

Anyway, things are winding down now.  Kiyoko and Yachi made a big show of heading out early, leaving Nakano to finish the bulk of the clean up.  Why do I suspect this has to do with the massive amounts of giggling earlier?  One good thing - once everyone goes up to change, Nakano will likely be the last one in the gym, and she and I can be alone to talk.  I think she might have deliberately planned this, as she's now shooing all of us out of the gym to go change, telling us, naturally, that she's got this.  

Fortunately no one seems to have taken any interest in the girls' somewhat odd behavior.  Yamaguchi knows, of course, he pats my arm and whispers "Good luck," before he takes his leave to go practice jump floats with Shimada-san.  I'm deliberately dawdling a bit as I'd really prefer to be the last one out so I can be sure no one is going to try to come back to the gym.  

Daichi calls out to me. "Tsukishima, are you walking Nakano home?"

"Yes, sir.  I'll see that she gets home safely."

The King is glaring at me.  

Looks like he's dawdling as well.  One by one all the others leave.  The Shrimp tells the King to meet him over at the bike rack so they can walk together part of the way.  He calls out a goodnight to me and I just nod.

"What is it, Your Majesty?"

"You're talking to her today, right?"

"What makes you say that?"

"I heard the girls giggling over something and glancing at you.  I figured something had to be up."

"Fine.  Yes, I plan to talk with her right now."

"About damn time.  If you make her cry..."

"That's not my intention." Ugh, this guy isn't even really her brother.  But I know she cares for him, and I don't want to do anything that's going make things tougher for Nakano and I.

We head to the door of the club room at the same time.  The King fixes me with a stare, then shakes his head.  "I will never understand what she sees in you," he says, then gives me a curiously...soft look. "Take good care of her, okay?"

Oh my gosh, this is so cliché.  "You're not dying.  I'm sure she'll still be confiding in you.  I expect I will have to continue dealing with you being involved in my love life for some time to come.  So quit acting like this is some sort of television melodrama.  I'm sure you'll be texting her later tonight demanding way too many details about our conversation."

Kageyama scoffed, then gave me a wicked grin.  "You know what?  You're absolutely right."  He heads down the steps.  "Good luck, four eyes!" he calls.   Great.  I've just been wished good luck in matters of romance by the King.  My world is complete.

Deep breath.  None of this other crap matters now.  All that matters is I'm finally going to take this chance and talk to Nakano about how I feel.  I head back into the gym, closing the door.  No one else is around...not even Nakano.  I'm about to call out when I see the storage room door open, and hear what sounds like...grunting?  What is she doing?  I don't know why, but I feel uneasy all of a sudden.  I break into a run.

I get to the storage room in time to see she's trying to push the box of practice jerseys up on to a shelf too high for her to reach.  The box is falling back down on top of her.  She tries to turn and move...I lunge forward and grab her around the waist and pull her towards me.  The box slams to the floor where she had been standing just a moment ago.

I'm breathing hard.  So is she.  She's trembling a bit in my arms.  In my arms.  I'm holding her in my arms, they're wrapped around her waist.  Her hands pressed against my chest.  Her face mere inches from mine.  Oh my...roses.  I can smell roses.  I can't think.  All I can see is her beautiful eyes, and all I can feel is her warmth and her trembling.  "Tsukki..."  I think she breathed out my name, her voice barely a whisper.  My right hand comes up and gently takes her chin.  "Kei," I whisper, "Call me Kei." I close the distance between us.

So soft.  Her lips are crazy soft.  And she tastes faintly sweet and spicy.  

My left arm pulls her tighter to me while my right hand plunges into her hair, bringing her lips in deeper to mine.  She moans slightly against me, her lips parting the smallest amount.

I lose all control.

My tongue is in her mouth, teasing, tasting.  She tastes so good.  I pull my glasses off and toss them aside, putting my left hand into her hair as well.  The scent of roses is everywhere.  Everything about her feels so good.  Her tongue is demanding entrance, I let her in.  Our kiss becomes sloppy.  Wet.  Amazing.  Feels so amazing.

Her hand is in my hair.  The other is touching me...my jaw, my shoulder, my back.  Anywhere she touches tingles with heat.  Moaning...I don't know if it's her or me.  Maybe both.  She tears her mouth away from mine and kisses my cheek and down my jawline to my throat.  Dear god...she's...she's sucking on my Adam's apple.

Okay, I'm pretty sure that's me moaning.  

If I wasn't already getting hard from all this, well, I'm damn hard now.  God, I want this girl.  She's so fucking sexy.  I want to kiss her again...need her level with me.  I grab her under her thighs to pick her up.  She wraps her arms around my neck and her legs around my waist.

Grinding against my crotch as I lift her.  The world goes white, explosions in my head.  Want her so bad.  Need her.

Wet kissing sounds and moaning.

"Hey..."

Tasting her again, tongues tangling.  Licking her skin, so hot.

"Hey..."

Something cold touches my wrist, dragging my brain back into the moment.

"...Kei, how far are we gonna take this, right here, right now?"

I'm stunned. I don't remember putting her up on the pile of mats, but I must have, because that's where she's sitting.  She's holding my left wrist, because my left hand is up underneath the edge of her shirt, touching the bare skin of her stomach, reaching towards her bra.  I don't remember doing that.  I barely remember anything from the last few minutes.  I can't believe...what might have happened...I yank my hands away from her, covering my mouth.

She's smiling at first, but soon looks worried when I pull away my hands.

"Kei?  Hey...come on...it's alright."

Alright?  I did things to her without even knowing what...dear god...if this had gone on...I might have raped her.  What have I done?  She must see it in my eyes.  I try to move away, but she grabs me and holds me in place.

"Kei!  Stop it."  She places her hands on either side of my face.  "Nothing that just happened was against my will, or something I didn't want.  It's alright, Kei."

"But...but I..."

"You didn't do a single thing I didn't want.  And when things began to get carried away...you stopped the moment I asked you about what we wanted to have happen here.  Now stop this.  Deep breath."  I follow her instructions, taking several deep breaths.

"I...I didn't hurt you, did I?"  I have to ask.  I can't remember what exactly I did after picking her up.

"Kei," she pulls me into a gentle hug.  "No, of course you didn't.  I told you.  Everything that happened was what we wanted...and you stopped as soon as I expressed any question at all.  I promise you.  You are not the kind of man who would do something like that."  

She's chuckling.  What?  Why?  I look at her smile, and can't help but smile a little myself.  

"I guess you found it, didn't you?"

"What?"

"Your passion.  I said I wanted to be there when you found your passion, because it was going to be amazing.  Tell you what, I wasn't wrong."  She's looking at me with such a sassy smile, I can't help but laugh too.  I hold her again, softly.  

"Well, I'm very glad you were here too."

"Are you okay now?"

"I...I don't know what happened to me.  I felt so..."

"Ssshhh.  Don't worry about it.  Consider it...a momentary lapse of reason."

"When I think of what might have happened..."

"But didn't.  I told you.  I wouldn't lie to you, especially not about something like this.  You're not that kind of man...not even in your most passion-filled moments.  And...uh...some of those moments there were pretty passion-filled."  So sassy.  Even at time like this.  She's awesome.

"You inspire it in me, apparently."  I gave her sass right back.  

"Lucky me."  She kisses my forehead gently.

"Um...where are my glasses?" 

She laughs.  "Probably on the floor over there somewhere.  I seem to recall you tossing them off your face pretty early on...I hope you didn't break them."

I spot them on the floor across the room and go get them and put them on.  She looks wonderfully disheveled.  I should probably be embarrassed, but I find I'm not.  I'm...happy?  Actually, I think I am.  Like, really happy.  This whole thing is crazy.  It makes no sense.  I guess I should have expected that.

"Well, this is isn't quite the way I had planned for this to go..."  

She laughs.  "Really?  This wasn't in the master plan?"  She looks at the box that almost fell on her.  "I'm glad you got here when you did, or this might have been a very different kind of evening."

I scoff at her.  "Next time, please try not to kill yourself before I get the chance to confess to you."  I grab the box and put it up on the shelf.

"Was that what this was?  A confession?"  She is mocking me here.  "Best confession ever."  Is that what I look like when I smirk too?  I want to kiss it off her face.

"Yes, Naka-chan.  A confession.  I guess, in the end, we both went about it the same way, didn't we?"  I cup her pretty face in my right hand.  "So...are you my girlfriend now?"

"Girlfriend?" she scoffs, "You haven't even asked me out on a date yet.  How can I possibly be your girlfriend?"  Her blue eyes are sparkling, but there's a hint of steel in that voice.  I guess I'd better be arranging a date, or I think I'll be in trouble.

"Alright.  Nakano, will you go out with me tomorrow night?"

"I...oh...Tsukki..."  She's blushing.  What the heck?  "Please don't take this the wrong way..."  Holy shit...after all that...is she turning me down?  "I have a medical appointment tomorrow evening.  I'll be leaving practice early, and I'll likely be exhausted afterwards.  Can we please make it Saturday after practice?  Please?"

Okay, heart beating again.  Must try to salvage this.  I swallow and take a deep breath.  "Sure.  Saturday sounds great."

She looks at me.  "I scared you, didn't I?"

"What?  No."

"Don't lie to me, it doesn't work.  I saw it in your face, Kei.  You thought I was turning you down...for a least a moment there..."

I can see this is going to be an interesting relationship.  I kiss her lips to shut her up.  It seems to work.  When I pull away, she looks a little...contrite.  "Sorry, Kei.  I didn't mean to worry you."

I chuckle and lift her down off the mats, gathering her into my arms.  "It's fine," I take a deep breath in, enjoying her scent. "Roses," I whisper.

She looks at me, chuckling.  "Did you just call me Roses?"

I color a little.  "I...well...you...always smell like roses."  I gather her in again, inhaling deeply.  "I like it...a lot."

I can feel her smile even though I can't see it.  "Note to self, buy lifetime supply of rose-scented body products," she says.  We chuckle.

"So now that I've asked you on a date...and you've accepted...are you my girlfriend now?"

"Well, that depends.  Are you my boyfriend?"

"I'd better be, after all this."

"Approved.  You, sir, are now my boyfriend."  She kisses me again.  

"What the hell have I gotten myself into?"  I'm smiling.  Like almost too much.  But I can't seem to stop.  She just called me her boyfriend.  I am no kidding happy, and I am no kidding smiling.  Shit.  What do I do now?

She laughs.  "You are in so much trouble, Tsukki.  If you keep smiling like that, the team is not going to know who you are."

"I'll get it under control before tomorrow.  Besides, do we really have to announce it all over the world?  The team doesn't need to know this instant, do they?"

"Well, let's consider what's likely to happen tonight.  I'll bet anything Yamaguchi knows you were planning to talk to me today..."

"And I'll bet you told Yachi and Kiyoko something was up based on the amount of giggling that occurred..."

"And I'd also be willing to bet that Tobio talked to you before he left today.  So that makes at least four people on the group chat who know something is happening."

"Yeah, but they are not the four most likely to yell about it all over the group chat.  So...we might be safe."

"Were you planning to hide it from them?"

"No, but you're right.  I am happy, and that's not normal for me."  She laughs.  "So I'm hoping I'll get the chance to learn how to manage all this before having to deal with the team teasing the heck out of us."

"Fair enough.  I'm okay with not bringing it up.  But I've no intentions of hiding it.  I mean, practice time is practice time, we don't need to get all lovey-dovey all over the gym..."

"Yeah...apparently we do that in the storage room." Ow.  She just hit me.  Oh yeah, this relationship is gonna be fun.

"...however, I also don't intend to sneak around and pretend like we aren't dating.  So if you don't think you can handle a little PDA now and then, you'd better speak up."

"I'm willing to deal with it if I must."  Ow.  "Are you going to hit me all the time now?"

"Depends, are you gonna be salty all the time?"

"Probably."

"Then I do hope you enjoy punishment games."

I raise an eyebrow at her and she laughs.  There's something I think I need to say.  I take her hands in mine.

"Nakano, I really did intend to talk with you tonight.  I...uh...wasn't expecting this to turn into a desperate make out session in the storage room.  But since it did...there's at least two things I want to make sure I say."  She looks at me.  She looks happy.  I can feel that smile creeping across my face again.  This girl is completely messing with me, and I like it.  What the hell is that about?  "First of all, I'm really sorry it took so long for me to answer your feelings for me.  I...uh..."

She squeezes my hands.  "It's okay.  You're like me, you don't let people in easily.  I expect there's more to it than that, and you don't have to explain it all tonight.  We're both used to keeping our feelings to ourselves.  Something tells me neither one of us will get over that immediately."

"I...I want to share things with you.  I just...I'm not sure..."

"Kei, you don't have to apologize anymore.  I'm really happy you decided to accept my feelings for you and share yours for me.  All the other things will come in time.  Okay?"

She's right.  There's no rush.  I take a deep breath.  "Okay.  But I do want you to know...despite how my confession ended up, this isn't about the physical for me.  You're beautiful...so very beautiful...and I think I could kiss you all day given the chance..." Oooh, got a nice blush for that one.  Why do I feel like I just scored a point in a game?  Feels good, though.  "...but in the end, that's not what made me want to go out with you.  You fascinate me, Nakano.  And I want to learn everything about you, and...and share about myself with you."  Dammit, now I'm blushing.  Point for her, even though she didn't really do anything to make me blush.  I can't believe I just said those words to her.  But they are so damn true.  I've never wanted to understand someone else so much.  And I've never wanted someone else to understand me.  Until now.

She hugs me again.  It feels so good, being in her arms.  "Kei, the feeling is very mutual.  I haven't felt this happy in a long time."  

"Shall I walk you home, Roses?"

"Are you seriously gonna call me that?"

I open up my phone and show her the entry in my contacts.   She's in my phone as Roses.  She laughs out loud.  "Oh my gosh, you're such a dork."  I give her a dark look.  "But you're my dork."  She takes out her phone, and I watch as she changes my name in her contacts from Sassyshima to My Kei.  I guess I should be grateful it didn't become My Dork.

We lock up the storage room and the gym, and head out, walking slowly and talking.  We hold hands as we go.  It feels incredible to me.  I know I could still end up hurt - but dammit, the King was right.  If I had never taken this chance, I would never have known the feeling I've got in my chest right now.  And it's worth it.

I'm going to walk Nakano all the way home, and when we get to her house, I'm going to kiss my girlfriend goodnight.

Chapter Text

I am dating Tsukishima Kei.  I keep saying that in my head.  I'm not sure I believe it yet.  It's...exciting.  And scary.  The last time I had a boyfriend...

Nope. Not approved, Nakano.  Not going there.  Kei is not Oikawa, not by a long shot.  He's a very, very different person.  Hell, I'm a different person than I was in middle school.  So this is going to be a very, very different relationship.  

I can't remember feeling this happy in a very long time.  

After we had walked home on Thursday, Kei texted me to find out if I was going on a run or anything in the morning.  He then declared that he would be meeting me at my house to walk me to school, because that's what boyfriends do.

Oh my gosh he is such an adorably cliché tsundere.  Can't say I mind it, though.

Most of the day Friday was pretty normal.  I mean, we did the usual things.  We were the usual way we are.  We joked, talked, laughed, teased each other.  Tsukki was a salty ass, and I gave him maximal sass right back.  We had classes, lunch with Tadashi, practice with the team.  All perfectly normal.  Like...nothing was different.

Except everything was different.  The world feels different when there's someone in it who you makes you feel like you're walking a foot or so above the ground.  That's how Kei makes me feel.  It feels wonderful.

Okay, some things are different.  Yams practically pounced on us on Friday morning, dying to know what had happened.  Tobio hadn't waited that long - he texted me Thursday evening, demanding a word-for-word replay of what Tsukki said to me.  He didn't get one, as Tobio-chan does not need to know that much about my love life.  But I did tell him roughly what happened and that yes, Tsukki and I are dating.  He's trying so hard to be supportive, and I love him for that.  It was so funny to watch Tobio watching Kei and I during practice to see if he could spot us being cutesy.  Kiyoko and Yachi did the same.  This is all way more fun than I thought it would be.  

The biggest difference, though, is Kei.  I knew he would not be the type who would want to be all lovey-dovey around people.  But I never thought he'd be so...touchy-feely when we're alone.  He's almost needy.  It's kinda sweet.  Anytime we were alone yesterday, he'd be touching me in some way.  Usually holding my hand.  We'd had lunch on the rooftop as we usually do.  Tadashi had gone off to get a soda (I think he just wanted to give us a few moments alone - he's such a sweetheart!), and Kei was holding my hand while we talked.  I pulled my hand away from his to eat, and he scowled at me.  He then took my hand back, kissed it, and whispered "Mine."  My heart melted right then and there.  It was the most adorable thing I'd ever seen.

And yes, I let him hold my hand until Yams came back and then I went back to eating.

How is someone so salty also so damn sweet?  

It got even better late last night.  We didn't walk home, because Mom had to pick me up and take me to see the doc.  I guess Kei felt he hadn't gotten quite enough touchy-feely time, because he showed up at my window around 10pm with a couple of strawberry sodas.  We sat in the yard and he held me in his arms for almost an hour.  Just looking up at the sky.   We didn't even really talk much.  Whenever we'd sat in the yard in the evenings before, I'd sometimes catch this look on his face...like maybe he wanted to hold me.  I think he decided he wanted to make up for all the times we'd sat out there before, and he hadn't been able to bring himself to do that.  Best evening in the yard ever.

And today...today we go on our first date.  But before that, I have a little surprise for my volleyball family.

Mom is insisting on driving me to the school today, because I told her I planned to be out really late on my date with Kei.  She was all surprised when I told her.  "Kei-chan asked you out?  You're not going to be dating Tobio-chan?"  I've told her a dozen times that Tobio and I are like brother and sister.  She was happy about it though, once she got over her surprise.  She's all excited for me - dating boys, that's something she can understand.  She and Ama-nee bonded over all that kind of stuff - makeup, fashion, boys, yadda yadda yadda.  Well, it isn't really me.  Mom was not happy that I would not be coming home to 'prepare' for my date.  Sorry, Mom, I don't think Kei would care if I spent 10 minutes or 10 hours getting ready.  Or at least, he'd better not.  If you don't think a girl looks good with no makeup on, why the heck would you date her?

Anyway, I'm feeling pretty nervous.  I plan on making a grand entrance, because this is a red-letter day for me.  This is something I've been waiting for.  A long time.  And I'm really happy to have this amazing team to share it with.  

We pull up outside the gates of the school.  We're a little late.  I did that deliberately.  

"Bye Mom!  Thanks for the ride!"

"What time are you planning to be home tonight after your date?"  She says 'date' all smarmy like.  Ugh, Mom, please.

"Probably around 11pm.  Don't wait up, okay?" I really have no desire to tell you all about my time with Kei.

"So late?"

"Well, it's not a school night, and we won't even get to head out until like 1pm because practice will go at least until noon, and then clean up, changing..."

"I'm not sure I like the idea of you being out so late..."

"Mom, Kei will be with me!  I'm sure he'll take good care of me."

She smiles.  I knew she would like the idea of a boy taking care of me.  Don't get me wrong, I'm excited to go out with Kei, but needing a boy to take care of me?  Weak.  I won't ever be weak again.

"I guess you're right.  Kei-chan seems like a lovely young man, and he's so tall and handsome!  I'm sure he'll be able to protect you just fine.  Have a great time!  I'll want to hear all abou..."

"Thanks Mom!  Bye!"  I grab my stuff, wave, and leave.  Sorry Mom, I love you, but...no.

Okay, Mom is on her way.  I jog over to the gym.  I'm getting so nervous.  I can't wait for them to see.  Well, okay, I'm kinda scared for them to see, but also crazy excited.

The doors are shut.  Perfect.  I text the group chat, hopefully someone's got their phone nearby.

Little Sister
Hey, can someone come open up the doors for me?  I need a little help here.

I can hear some commotion inside, then Ennoshita's voice near the door.

"I've got it!"

Ennoshita opens the doors, and I come leaping inside.

I'm wearing a white tee shirt, and black workout shorts.  

And my brand new black fabric leg supports.

No wheelchair, no braces.

Ennoshita is just staring.  Oh wait, more than half the team is staring.  They were all headed this way, Ennoshita just got there first.  LOL, I guess I did say I needed help.

I'm posing, showing off the new look, as it were.  Tobio breaks the silence first.

"L-l-legs..." is all he manages to stammer out.  He's got this really dopey grin on his face.  

I make a show of looking down at myself.  "Hey, you're right, Kags!  I do have legs!  Whaddaya know about that?"

Daichi recovers first.  He jogs over to me and gives me a hug.  "Congratulations, Nakano!  Are you out of the braces for good?"

Now everyone is coming over, giving me hugs, clapping me on the back, talking all at once. 

"You look amazing!"

"Woah, her legs are so long!"

"Congratulations!"

"How did this happen?"  That was Nishinoya.  "Are you...cured?  All better?"

I laugh.  "Well, in one sense, yes, Noya-senpai.  My doctors say that I no longer need the metal braces.  These fabric ones will help me make the transition...but yes.  I'll still be in physical therapy for a while longer...but within a year, maybe less, I should be...well...as normal as I ever was, I guess."

"That's...that's...AMAZING!!!"  Noya runs over and leaps into my arms for a hug.  Woah, this boy is crazy!  I half expect Kei to come up and smack him, but actually, Tobio beats him to it.  Well, he doesn't really smack him...but he does kinda pull him off me a bit.

"My turn, Nishinoya-senpai," Tobio says, pulling me in for a hug.  "I'm so happy for you," he says softly in my ear.

"I'll be right back!  I gotta get something!" I hear Noya yell, and then the door slamming.

"Oi!  King!"  Uh-oh, I know that voice.  "Do you mind?"

Tobio scoffs a little, but steps away.  Kei walks up to me.  "Congratulations," he says, offering me his hand, with a little bit of a smirk.  I take his hand with a smile of my own.  As expected, he flips my hand, kisses it, and then pulls me into a warm hug.

"Hey!  That's just what the Captain of Nekoma did!  Is Tsukishima hitting on Nakano?" Shoyo is yelling.  "He's hitting on her, and she's hugging him!  Doesn't she know what he's doing?"  I can hear several people giggling.  

"Hinata, you dumbass!  They're dating."  Tobio growls at him.

That statement brings a chorus of reactions again.  "Oops," Kei whispers in my ear, "I guess they found out."

I chuckle.  "Idiot."

He chuckles too.  "Yeah, but I'm your idiot."  His gives me a kiss on my nose.  Suga is clapping his hands and looks near to tears.  I had no idea he was rooting for Tsukki and I.  

"Nakano!" Noya comes bursting back in the gym, holding something in his hands.

"What is it, Noya-senpai?"  I step away from Kei.  

"I want you to have this!"  He places the thing in my hands.  It's one of his tee shirts...the one with the kanji for 'Mighty Warrior' on the back.  "You should wear it!  You're such a total badass...and your name means 'warrior', right?  You are a Mighty Warrior!  You beat all the odds and you can walk again!"

Aw, hell.  I've got tears in my eyes.  This...this is the coolest thing ever.  This is what I wanted it to be like when people finally saw my legs.   And he's right, the kanji for my name can translate to 'warrior.'  But still... "Noya-senpai...I can't take this..."

"Sure you can!  I've got two of them!  Go try it on!"  He's right, he's wearing the same shirt I'm holding.  I hesitate...

Yamaguchi comes up to me.  "Go on, Naka-chan.  You are the warrior of our team.  Strong and brave.  Please, go put it on."  He gives me a hug.  Well, heck, how do I say no to that?  

"Okay...gimme a sec."  I run into the storage room.

I quickly change shirts.  I love it.  I love what it says.  There's only one problem...

I'm about 5 inches taller than Nishinoya-senpai.  And my...uh...chest is significantly...curvier.  It's like I'm wearing a crop top almost.  I mean, it does come to the waistband of my shorts...but just barely.  And it's a little bit clingy on...uh...everything.  I try raising my arms up to set the ball...ummm....

Aw, what the hell.  I'm wearing a sports bra.  Besides, I love it so much.  And it will be more than worth it to see how Kei and Tobio react.  This ought to be fun.  I bounce out of the storage room.

"Whaddaya think?"  I say, turning to show the back of the shirt.

They are cheering.  Cheering!  Shoyo is jumping around yelling "Hooray for the Warrior Queen!"

I'm starting to get overwhelmed again.  "Guys!"  They quiet down.  "Look, I've gotta tell you...this wouldn't have been possible without all of you.  My doc has been amazed at how much progress I've been able to make since I joined the team.  And its all because you guys have made me feel like I really belong here...you've helped and supported me in more ways than I can tell you.  So thank you all so much!  And Noya-senpai - thank you for the shirt!  I love it!"  I bow to them all.  Man, do I love these guys.

Asahi gently says, "Hey, uh, Daichi..."

The Captain seems to know what Asahi has in mind.  "Huddle up, team!"  The boys all come together, folding me into the group along with Kiyoko, Yachi and even Coach Ukai.  It's perfect.  We just stand in a circle, arms around one another, for a long moment.  Okay, so I am not the only one with tears in their eyes.  Have I mentioned how much I love these guys?

Daichi finally yells, "Karasuno...FIGHT!"

"FIGHT!!!"  We all yell as the huddle breaks.

"Alright!"  Coach Ukai says.  "Now I don't know about you guys, but there's something I wanna see.  Hey Legs!"  I can only assume he means me.

"Yeah, Coach?"

"I'm guessing this means you're clear to do some spiking, right?"

"I can give it a shot, Coach."

Ukai tosses a ball to Tobio.  "Kageyama, set her up!"

My eyes are fixed on the ball.  Tobio gives me a beautiful toss.  I let my mind go blank and let my body move on its own.

It feels perfect.

Before I know what's happening, I'm landing on my feet.  The ball has rebounded off the floor on the other side of the court and smacks into the far wall.  I turn to look at Coach.

"All right!  That's what I'm talking about!" Coach Ukai shouts with a fist pump.

"Go change your shirt!" Tobio and Kei yell simultaneously.

I laugh hysterically.  This is gonna be a great practice.

🏐🏐🏐

Practice was great indeed.  And I wore my new shirt the entire time.  Tobio was mad.  Kei was...mad and happy, I think.  He seemed to have a lot of trouble hitting my sets today, as he kept watching the setter and not the ball.

It is very fun to play volleyball with your boyfriend in a top that's a little too small.

Now I'm trying to get cleaned up and ready for my first date with Kei.  Kiyoko and Yachi are quick to notice that I've taken the time to use the shower and brought a proper outfit with me.  Nothing super fancy, just skinny jeans and a top that I've always loved.  Kei promised me we weren't going to do anything too elaborate, and I want to be comfortable.  The nice thing about my shorter hair is I can wash it, towel it, and leave it wet.  And it still looks nice.

And just to be sure, I brought the rose water body spray I've been using.  And applied it liberally.

Okay, I know.  I said I wasn't into this kind of thing.  But hey, it's my first date with Kei.  I want it to be nice.  Ugh, am I being too girly?  Kei would not enjoy that.

Kiyoko looks at me.  "Didn't you say you're going on a date with Tsukishima?"

"Yeah," I say, "What? Did I overdo it?"

"Y-You're not going to wear a d-dress or a skirt?" Yachi asks.

"I've never been really fond of dresses and skirts.  I...uh...don't really want to show my legs."

"But we all saw your legs today.  They look great!"  Kiyoko looks confused.

"Yeah, that's you guys.  Plus, I don't know where we are going, but Tsukki did say it would be best to be casual and comfortable.  So, I stuck with clothes I know I'll feel good in."  Not too girly, check.  Guess I was worried for nothing.

"Well, that makes sense.  Do you want to borrow a hair dryer?" Kiyoko asks with a small smile.

"Nah, I'm good.  My hair dries quickly now that it's shorter."  I think I'm about ready.  I grab my bag and toss it over my shoulder.  "Bye girls!"

"Bye, Nakano!  Have a great time!"  Kiyoko calls.

"G-g-good luck!"  Yachi stammers out.  She's so cute, but still pretty nervous around us all.

I step out of the girls changing area.  Tanaka, Nishinoya, Daichi, Suga, and Asahi are all standing there.

"Woah," I wasn't expecting half the team to be out here.  "Hey guys...everything okay?"

"You look great, Nakano," Daichi begins.

"Thanks, Cap," I reply.

Tanaka looks at me with tears in his eyes.  "If my kohai doesn't treat you right, you tell me right away and I will take care of it."

"Tanaka-senpai..."

Asahi looks me over.  "Do you need a jacket?  It might get cold later...do you want to borrow mine?"

"Ace...it's early July..."  What is this?  They're all looking at me like I'm in trouble or something.

Noya looks into my face.  "You guys will use protection, right?"

Daichi loses it, cracking up.  Suga follows immediately afterward.  And then all five of them are laughing out loud.

"Alright, you guys, so you obviously know I'm going out with Tsukki today...thank you so much for your kind concern."  My voice drips with sarcasm.  Oh my...if I've got these five out here, what are the other six doing in the clubroom with Tsukki?

Asahi finally stops laughing and puts a hand on my shoulder.  "Sorry, Nakano, but we couldn't resist."

"You guys are like the five weirdest dads I've ever seen."  I can't help but laugh at them.  

"I expect full details on the group chat tonight!" Noya winks at me.

Suga gives me a quick hug.  "I'm sure you guys will have a great time."

The door to the boys changing room opens and Tsukki slips out, rapidly slamming it shut again. I can hear several things hit the door, and a lot of laughter.  The door rattles - Tsukki is still holding it, trying to keep it shut.  He looks...upset.  He takes a deep breath.  "Are you ready, Nakano?"  He is laboring to keep his voice steady.  I look at the five boys, all starting to glare at Tsukki.  I hold up my hand.

"Nope.  Just stop.  I think the other six have done enough at this point.  Don't even think about any more teasing - got it?"  I give them my own glare.  They back off.

Daichi smiles.  "Have a good time, guys." 

I look at Tsukki, and then cast my eyes down the stairs.  He nods, and gestures with his chin.  Okay, I go first.

I jump onto the stairs, grabbing the railings with my hands and sliding down.  I move quickly aside once I'm at the bottom, because Kei follows right after me.  I can hear the clubroom door bang open and a lot of laughing and yelling.

"Behave yourself, Tsukishima!"

"Don't you dare use any of those..." That's Tobio.  What the heck is he talking about?

"Oh my gosh, guys, what did you do in here?" Suga.  This can't be good.

"Clean this up RIGHT NOW!"  That was Daichi.  Some boys are in trouble.  

"Bye, guys!  Have a great time!"  I look up to see Shoyo waving us goodbye with a big smile on his face.  He's soon joined by Yamaguchi.  "Bye!  Don't do anything I wouldn't do Tsukki!' Yams says, smiling mischievously.  Now that I would never have expected.

Kei grabs my hand and starts walking...angrily and fast.

"Hey...calm down, Kei.  You knew they were going to do something like this."

"I'm going to kill Tadashi later."

"No you won't.  That wouldn't be any fun at all.  Just wait until it's his turn, and then exact your revenge."

He stops, and looks at me.  His grimace slowly changes into a smirk.  "You make a good point."  He's wearing a really nice button down shirt.  But that's not what's caught my attention.  The top couple of buttons are undone, and there's something stuck there.  

"Planning something for later this evening, are we?"  I smirk at him and pull out the condom that's stuck in his shirt.  

"Ugh...I thought I found them all..."  He starts checking all over himself.

"Did they throw them at you?"

"Yes.  By the dozens.  And several other products which we are not going to discuss."

I am trying very hard not to laugh.  "Even Tobio did this?  I'm shocked."

"No, the King actually tried to get them all away from me.  He spent a great deal of time yelling about how he would kill me if I tried to use any of them."

I can't help it.  I start laughing.  He's giving me a very angry glare.

"I don't really find any of this funny."

"Kei, let it go.  They had their fun, and if the tone of Daichi's voice was any indication, they're going to pay for it.  Plus heaven help them when any of them start dating anyone.  I'm sure between the two of us we can come up with something far more embarrassing than this."  I hand him the condom, and he tucks it into his pants pocket.  "Still keeping that I see?" I raise my eyebrow at him, and take his arm.

I can feel the anger drain off him.  He takes a deep breath, and gives me a small smile...that slowly turns into a smirk.  He leans over to me.  "Who knows?  Might come in handy someday..."  he whispers.  I give him a kiss on the cheek.  

"Come on, Roses," he whispers to me, "let's go get some lunch."

🏐🏐🏐

We decided to grab some food at the yakisoba place near the school, mostly because we were both hungry and I wanted Kei to explain exactly what happened in the clubroom so he could get over it.  We actually were able to laugh about it eventually.  I can't believe Yamaguchi would set something up like that - he had to know Tsukki would hate it.  But apparently he was the one who told everyone we'd be going on a date today after practice.  I think the condom-throwing idea was Noya and Tanaka, however, and they just stayed away from it to throw suspicion off themselves.  Clever, boys, but not clever enough.  I'm sure we'll find some way to 'thank' them for the lovely send off.  At least they didn't do anything too bad to me.  But then again, the dynamic is very different.  The team is now essentially my boyfriend...and my 11 older brothers.  I did try to explain that the fact that the team was willing to do that to him just showed that they really do consider him a good friend.  I think he gets that.  And if not, at least he was willing to forget about it and enjoy our time together.

Once we'd eaten we headed to the train station.  And yes, Kei held my hand the entire way...even when there started to be a lot more people around.  Maybe people we don't know and probably won't see again don't count?  Whatever, I like it.  Before I knew it, we'd made the journey to Tohoku University and its Museum of Natural History.  

And that is how I find myself standing in front of a huge dinosaur skeleton, listening to Kei tell me everything there is to know about it.   His eyes are sparkling, he's smiling, and basically looks like a kid in a candy store.

In short, my boyfriend is a total dinosaur geek.  And it is absolutely adorable.

I've gotta say, the fact that he was willing to share this with me on our very first date really makes me happy.  He's acting like a little kid and doesn't even care, which is not something I would ever have expected to say about Tsukishima Kei.  This is a side of him I wasn't expecting, and...well...let's just say the smile on my face couldn't get any wider if I tried.  

"...oh, look...here's the Fukuiraptor!  Almost all known fossils of this dinosaur come from the Kitadani quarry.  And it's believed that none of the skeletons are fully mature - they all seem to be juveniles."  Kei is examining the small skeleton in great detail.  "So cool..."

"Didn't they also find Fukuiraptor in the Sebayashi Formation?  I thought I remembered reading about that..."

"Well, they've tentatively identified some of the fossils from there as being..." Kei suddenly stops and looks at me, his eyes almost aglow.  "You...know about stuff like this?"

"Well, yeah, paleontology is fascinating!  I actually really love archeology too.  When we're done with the dinosaurs, do you mind if we go through the Humanity and Archaeology gallery?  Oh!  And the Rocks and Minerals too!"

He takes my hand again, giving it a squeeze.  "Yeah, that'd be great," he says with a very genuine smile on his face.  

We end up spending hours at the museum, wandering through every gallery, talking about all kinds of things from dinosaurs to meteorites.  I knew Kei was intelligent, of course, but he's also got a real passion for this kind of thing.  I learned a lot from him today.  I probably knew more about the rocks and minerals than he did, so I got to teach him something new as well.  Plus, the cafeteria had strawberry shortcake.  Could this day get any better?

We're in the little gift shop now, with not much time before they close.  I've spotted Fukuiraptor skeleton keychains and I really want to get us matching ones.  But how do I do that without Kei noticing?  Heck, he's still holding my hand!  Not that I want him to stop that...but still.

He's kissing my hand.  I look at him, feeling a little blush on my cheeks.  "Hey," he says, "will you be okay here for a few minutes?  I need to use the restroom."

I chuckle.  "Of course!  I'll probably wind up by the bookshelves, so look for me over there."  Yes!  Perfect timing.  And the bookshelves are as far from the register as you can get, so it'll buy me some time if I need it.  He heads off in the direction of the bathrooms, and I wait until he's out of the store to pick up two of the keychains and pay for them.  I tuck the little package into my bag, and make my way over to the books.

I'm completely absorbed in looking at a beautiful book on geology when a feel a chin hit my shoulder and a pair of arms around my waist.  "Ready, Roses?" 

I lean my head against his.  "You are surprisingly...cuddly," I giggle.

"Am I not allowed to cuddle my girlfriend if I want?" he says as he squeezes me.

"Oh, please.  Approved.  Absolutely approved.  Cuddle your girlfriend any time you like."

"Mmmmmm. I'm going to remember you said that," he whispers in my ear.  I giggle again, mostly because his breath is tickling me.  "Come on, they're closing up, and we should probably get to the train station."  I put the book back and link my hand with his as we head out.

"Thanks for exploring the museum with me today," Kei says as we ride back towards home.

"Thank you!  That was the most fun I think I've ever had at a museum.  It was so cool to share it with someone who enjoys it as much as I do."

He looks a little shy, sorta.  "I was...uh...worried you'd think I was a complete dork."

I smirk at him.  "And even if I did, we've already established that you're my dork.  So it's all good."

He rolls his eyes at me.  "Had you been there before?"

"Mhmm.  Once, a long time ago, with my family.  Dad and I dragged Mom and Amalie to it.  I was still pretty small, but even then, I enjoyed stuff like that.  Dad and I explored every inch of the place.  I think Mom and Ama wound up in the cafeteria after like an hour and gave us so much grief afterwards,"  I scoffed.  "They wouldn't go back again, no matter how many times I asked."

Kei smiled softly.  "Sounds like your dad is pretty cool.  I hope I get to meet him soon."

"One date and you already want to meet my father?" I smirked again, leaning in to whisper at him, "And I know you have a condom in your pocket.  What are your intentions towards me, sir?"

He laughs and kisses my cheek.  "Right now, my intentions have to do with dinner.  What should we do?  It's still pretty early."

Okay, I know what I wanna do, but will he think it's too crazy?  Well, he's got to get used to my craziness sometime...might as well start now.  "Okay, I have an idea, but it's a little crazy.  I kinda wanna do something physical and stretch my legs, you know?"

He looks at me with a mix of skepticism and curiosity.  "What do you want to do?"

Deep breath.  "Roller skating and pizza?"

He laughs.  "Let's do it."

🏐🏐🏐

And so here we are some thirty odd minutes later, lacing up rented skates.  This place has the best pizza in town, surprisingly, and I really do want to do something physical right now.  Music is playing, we've ordered a pizza, and I'm excited to roller skate again for the first time in years.

In fact, I think I'm trembling a little.

"Hey...are you doing okay?  Are you sure you're ready for this?"  Yep, he noticed it too.  I'm definitely shaking a bit.

"I'm kinda super excited.  This my first time back on roller skates since my accident."

He looks at me, concern showing on his handsome face.  "Are you sure we should be doing this?"

"Well..."  I smile at him.  "You'll hold on to me at first, won't you?"

He shoulder checks me.  "Idiot.  I'll hold you the entire time if that's what you want."

"That's a tempting offer.  I might just have to take you up on that."

"Ready?  Here, let me check your skates."  He kneels down in front of me, checking the fit of my skates.  He's also rather slyly running his long-fingered hands up and down my calves, which is delightful.  I might have to teach him how to massage my legs at some point.

I lean forward, whispering, "If you keep that up, I definitely won't stop shaking."

He blushes delicately, it's so sweet.  He offers me a hand and we make our way out onto the rink.  He keeps an arm around my waist at first, but soon we switch to holding hands, as the motion comes back to me readily.  Gosh, this feels so good!  

We skate around for a while, laughing and chatting.  I'm soon feeling comfortable enough to turn around and face him, skating backwards.  He raises an eyebrow at me and I laugh.  He places his hands on my hips and we sway to the song playing...some pop song I'm only half familiar with.  But it's fun to dance to.  If his skating is any indication, I bet Kei is a pretty darn good dancer.  The DJ breaks in and announces a couple skate, and then busts out the 80s music - Salt 'n' Pepa's Push It.  Kei looks at me as the bass line starts thumping.  "Wanna dance?" he asks.

"Let's do it," I say.  

I was right, he is a good dancer, even on skates.  We don't do anything too fancy, but he does turn me a few times and we get some nice hip action going.  You almost have to with that song.  The best part comes at the lines  'Yeah, you come here, gimme a kiss/Better make it fast or else I'm gonna get pissed' - Kei pulls me in close to him and kisses my cheek quickly.  We dance to the entire song, then make our way off the floor as the music changes.  I'm a little breathless, honestly.  

"That was so much fun!"  Can't help myself, I'm excited.

He laughs.  "Our pizza should be ready - let's eat."

"Sounds great!"

We find a relatively quiet corner as far from the skating rink as possible.  We can hear the music but also hear each other, and not many other people are around.  We laugh and talk some more.

"Hey, do you mind me asking about your leg supports?"

I chuckle.  "Of course not, silly, what do you wanna know?"

"So you said you no longer have the metal braces and the wheelchair..."

"Well, technically, they are in my closet, but I don't plan to ever use them again."

"...but you used to take the braces off.  Do you have to wear the leg wraps all the time?"

"At first, yeah.  The metal braces restricted my movements a lot more than these things.  And they gave my legs a lot more support.  I'm actually working my legs much harder now than before - I use the muscles pretty much all the time.  But that's what I need to do to progress further.  Eventually, I won't even need these all the time - I'll start wearing them only for exercise, or when I feel like I need the extra support.  And one day, I'll put these away for good as well."

"So...can you play volleyball full time again?"

I look at his honey-brown eyes, they look a little sad.  "I'm not leaving the team, Kei.  And no, not yet.  But I can do more for you guys now!  And I'm really happy about that."

He smiles.  "I'm glad you'll still be staying with us for awhile."

"Me too.  I owe you guys a lot.  I want to see this team get to Nationals just as much as any of you."

He scoffs.  "We've got a long way to go before we get there, I think."

"You don't think we can get there this year, do you?"

He shrugs.  "It's just a game.  I don't even want to think about it that hard."  I can see his whole body go tense.  What happened?  I know you're a passionate guy.  Why do you bury your feelings for volleyball?  I know you love it, because if you didn't, you wouldn't be playing at all.  Something must have happened to make him hide away his feelings like this.  Maybe when he's ready...I turn the conversation to other things and help him relax again.    We finish our pizza and chat for a bit before I pull Kei out onto to the rink once more.

We skate for what seems like forever - even I'm starting to get tired.  We finally agree we're both ready to stop for the evening and head off to remove our skates.  I look up and who do I see walking by with skates in his hands...

"Suga?"  I call out to the silver-haired boy.

He turns, sure enough, it's him.  And Daichi.  "Nakano!  Tsukishima!  Hey, you guys are still out on the town, huh?" Suga says.

"Hello, senpai." Tsukki says.  I think he's still a little miffed about what happened earlier.

Daichi looks at my slightly cranky blonde boyfriend. "Hey, Tsukishima, I'm sorry about what happened earlier.  They told us they were going to tease you a little, not throw...uh...stuff all over the place.  All six of them will be doing penalty laps at next practice, plus I made them clean the clubroom today and Monday they'll be cleaning the gym."

I chuckle.  "You should include Noya-senpai and Tanaka-senpai in that punishment.  I'm almost positive the throwing things idea came from them."

Daichi's grin becomes downright...sinister.  "Oh don't worry.  I've got a special punishment that I'm arranging just for them.  Don't say anything...I want it to be a surprise."  I look at Kei, he's got a sly little smile on his face.

"Thanks, Captain.  I appreciate that," Tsukki looks at the skates the two are holding.  "Are you just arriving?"

Suga chuckles nervously.  "Uh...yeah.  You see, late night Saturdays here are..."

The lights in the rink suddenly change, the room getting darker and lights getting flashier.  The DJ blasts out over the room "WELCOME TO DISCO NIGHT!!  IT'S TIME TO BOOGIE DOWN!"  Disco music starts blaring everywhere.

Kei and I look at Suga's blushing face.  We can't help but laugh.  "I had no idea you were a closet disco fan, Suga!"  

He laughs.  "Well, neither Daichi nor I had a date for this evening, so we decided to come down here and enjoy the throwback to the 70s."

"Plus they have the best pizza here, for some reason." Daichi adds.

"I know, right!  Well, have fun you guys!" I stand up.

"We'll see you on Monday,"  Tsukki says, taking my hand and leading me to return the skates.  Daichi and Suga wave us goodbye and take over our bench to put their skates on.

We make our way out of the roller rink, our ears adjusting to the quiet of the evening.  Kei looks at me.  "What time did you need to be home?" he asks.

"Well, I told my mom 11pm, but I also told her not to wait up..."

He chuckles.  "But she will.  So I'll be sure to have you home by 11.  But it's only 9:30 now...mind if we make one more stop before we call it a night?"

"I'd love it."

We walk in silence, hand in hand, stopping by a convenience store to pick up a couple of drinks.  Soon, we're approaching the park not far from our neighborhood.  Kei walks along like he's got a particular destination in mind.  

"Oh my gosh!"  This is amazing.  Fireflies.  He's brought us to a tree in the park that is absolutely alive with fireflies.  I can't help myself, I run forward to the tree, pulling Kei along by the hand.  "This is so beautiful!"

He pulls my hand to slow us down a little ways from the tree where it's still nice and grassy.  He opens his bag and pulls out a blanket, spreading it on the ground.  He sits, smiling up at me and offering me his hand.  Moments later we're lying together on the blanket, snuggled up, watching the fireflies dance. It's warm in his arms.  This feels so...wonderful.  "Every time I think this day can't get any better, it does." I whisper.  I feel his fingers touch my face...he's up on his elbow, looking down at me.  And then he kisses me.  It's a soft, warm, kiss.  Gentle and slow.  He tastes sweet.  "There it goes again," I say when he leans back, "this day just keeps getting better."  We settle into each other's arms, kissing lips, faces, necks, jawlines.  Before things can get too heated, Kei sits up and takes out the sodas we bought, offering me one.  

"How did you know there would be so many fireflies?"  I ask, sipping the refreshing drink.

"It's the right time of year for them.  Plus I've seen them in this park many times before.  I hoped it would be a good night for them."

"It's a wonderful night."

"Hey Roses?"

"Mmmm?"

"Thanks for a perfect first date."

I chuckle.  "Perfect?  Even the start of the day?"

He laughs.  "I can even forgive those idiots, yes.  I wouldn't change a thing about this day.  And I can't wait to see what Daichi does to Noya and Tanaka."

I laugh too.  "Kei?  May I ask you..."

"Yes.  The answer is always yes, you can ask me anything.  Just like you told me."

"Well, I don't want to ruin the feel of this first date..."

"You can't.  Ask away."

"Have you ever had a girlfriend before?"

He gives me a sly look.  "Jealous already, Nakano?"

I shoulder-check him.  "No, idiot, I'm just curious."

"Well...I guess I sort of had a girlfriend in my first year of middle school."

"Sort of?" I chuckle.

"She used to come to our volleyball games.  One time, after our team won, she ran up to me and kissed me.  I figured that meant we were boyfriend and girlfriend."

"How long did you guys date?"

He laughs.  "We didn't really.  I tried asking her to go out and do things together, but all she ever wanted to do was kiss me.  She was boring, and just interested in sucking face, so I stopped talking to her after a week. "

"Pfft."  I couldn't help it, that's my Tsukki.  Right to the point.

"Why do you ask?"  Uh-oh, I thought he might want to know why I asked.  Well, it won't be much of a relationship if we aren't truthful with one another.  So here goes.

"Well, I wondered if...maybe...you'd had a girlfriend before who'd hurt you."  He looked at me, a little wide eyed.  "I...it seemed to me like you were hesitant to start a relationship with me, and I thought maybe you were worried about being hurt again."

"How do you do that?" he breathed.

"You don't have to tell me.  Or at least, tell me when you feel ready, okay?  I just...I want you to know that...I really care about you Kei.  And if someone or something has hurt you in the past, well, I want to help heal that hurt, if I can."

He stares at me with those golden eyes for a long moment, then pulls me into a tight embrace.  "Thanks," he whispers, his voice seems thick with emotion. "I think...you've already started, you know?"

I chuckle gently, he smiles softly at me.  "What about you?  How does this compare to your first date with Oikawa?" he asks.

"Hmmm...looking back, I don't really think Oikawa and I ever went on a real date."

"What do you mean?  Weren't you together for like five months?"

"Yes...and I've told you how that started and how it ended...but in the middle, we didn't really date.  It was more like...being an actor in a movie.  He would take me places where lots of other people would see us, and then tell me how to act.  'Stand here,' 'look at me like this,' 'kiss me now,' that kind of thing.  He got people to take pictures of us all the time.  But never once did we have a day even remotely like this.  We never shared anything about each other, and I swear all we ever talked about was Tobio.  Heck, I only know his favorite food is milk bread because I read it in a magazine."  

"Wow...what an asshole."

I can't help it, I laugh out loud.  "Yup.  So if you're concerned my dear, you are 10,000 times the boyfriend he ever was after just one official date.  Something tells me it will only get better from here."  I snuggle against him.  Suddenly I remember the keychains.  "Hey, wait a second!  I almost forgot!"  I grab my bag and pull out the little package from the museum.  "I got us both something to share."

"What is it?" he asks, very curious.

I pull out one of the two keychains and dangle it in front of him.  His eyes light up.  "Hey, that's a Fukuiraptor!"  He takes the keychain from my hand, and I pull out the other one.

"Yep, and I've got one too, so we can remember we bonded over this dinosaur."  He pulls out his keys and adds the keychain to it, I do the same.  

"I love that.  Thanks, Roses."  He cuddles me close and kisses my cheek.  "Now, I've got something for you, too."  He pulls a similar little gift shop package out of his bag.  "Would you please close your eyes for me?"

"You're making me nervous."  I say, closing my eyes.  I hear him take something out of the bag, and then he's fussing a bit at my neck.  Did he get me a necklace?

"Okay, take a look," he says finally.

I open my eyes and look down towards my chest.  It's a beautiful pendant...a bismuth crystal framed into a crescent moon.  I'd gushed over the giant bismuth crystals in the Rocks and Minerals gallery at the museum.  I can't believe he got me this!

"Kei!" I gasp.  

"Do you like it?"

"Like it?  Oh my gosh, Kei, I love it!  It's so beautiful!"

"Like you," he whispers, playing with my hair.

I look again at the lightning bugs all around us.  "Fireflies like your first name, and the Moon like your last name.  This really has been the most amazing day ever."  He kisses me again, long and sweet and loving.  I wish we could stay here like this forever.  But soon enough, we part and he stands, offering me his hand.  

"I'd better get you home.  I don't want your mom mad at me for bringing you home late from our first date."  We gather everything together and begin the short walk to my house.  It's cooler than I thought it would be, and I shiver as we walk.  Kei puts his arm around my shoulders, and I slip mine around his waist.

"Oh, approved, " I say, snuggling into him a bit, "I think we should walk like this all the time."

"Your wish is my command, my lady," he says, a teasing smirk on his face.  Within a few minutes, we're at my door.  The lights are still on in the living room.  "See, I told you she'd wait up for you."

I sigh.  "I guess I can't avoid it.  She's going to want a dang play-by-play of this event."

"Be sure to tell her the part about what an incredible kisser I am," he says, so smug.

"Well, you're not wrong."  I smirk at him.

He kisses my lips gently.  "Mmmm...thank you."  He gives me one last warm hug.  "Goodnight, Roses."

"Goodnight, Kei.  See you Monday."  He steps back, but watches until I'm inside with the door shut behind me.  I lean against the door, and breath deeply.  That was the most incredible day I've ever had.  How did I get so lucky?

By mutual agreement, we'd both silenced our phones before heading out.  I decide to look.  Oh my word...162 messages on the group chat alone.  3 messages from Tobio.  Oh boy.  And now I can hear my mom squealing and telling me to come in the living room and tell her all about my date.  I'm doomed.

But I don't care.  It was worth it.  I am crazy stupid happy right now.

Chapter Text

The week following their first date turned out to be an extremely busy one for Nakano and Tsukishima.  Not only was it exam week, there was also a great deal going on with the team as they prepared to go to their away camp with the Fukurodani Academy Group.  The week began with Daichi calling the two over to talk with him at break time during Monday's practice.

"What's up, Cap?" Nakano asked.  

"I just wanted to have a quick word with the two of you."  He paused, looking a little unsure of how to proceed.  "I'm not trying to get too deep into anyone's personal lives here, but..."  

Tsukishima and Nakano exchanged a glance, the girl nodded.

"Sir, if you're concerned that us dating each other will affect the team, well, we've already decided it's not going to."  Tsukishima said.

Daichi gave him a confused look.

"What we mean Cap, is that the needs of the team come first.  We were teammates before we started dating.  If anything happens between the two of us that looks like it might impact our ability to continue working as teammates, well, the good of the team has to come before any other consideration.  We talked about this, and we've both agreed.  We will do what needs to be done to make sure the team has what it needs to continue."  Nakano declared.

"That's...uh...that's some pretty intense assertions there, Nakano."  Daichi said, looking a little embarrassed.  "I was just going to ask that we keep the PDA down to a minimum during practices, but I guess you both have thought about this more seriously than that."

"That isn't something you'll need to worry about, Captain.  Nakano and I both agree that practice is not the time for that sort of thing."  Tsukishima stated.

"At least, not very much," Nakano said with a twinkle in her eyes, "I reserve the right to mess with people as needed."  Both Tsukishima and Daichi gave the girl a stern look.  "What?" she said, "You both know I'm right.  Sometimes you just need to mess with people.  It breaks the tension."  Tsukishima rolled his eyes, and Daichi just laughed.

"All right, I think I can safely say I was worried about nothing.  You guys seem to understand that practice still needs to be practice and not date night.  Thanks for the chat, you two."  Daichi headed back into the gym, leaving them alone.

"Planning to mess with someone, are you?"  Tsukishima smirked at his girlfriend.

"Maybe," Nakano put her arms around Tsukki's neck.  

He held on to her waist, drawing her closer.  "I thought we agreed none of this during practices,"  he teased, his lips almost touching hers.

"This isn't practice, it's a break."  She kissed him, he happily joined in.

"Didn't we just discuss this?" Daichi called from the gym doors, laughter clear in his voice.

The two laughed.  "Yes, Captain!" They called out, heading back into practice.

For the most part, practices continued as they always had.  Nakano was able to take an even more active role in drills and exercises, and she and Tsukishima did indeed keep their promise to Daichi and keep their romance out of the gym, mostly.  No one seemed to mind an occasional quick kiss between the two, and even Kageyama seemed to get used to the idea.

Exams were a different problem.  Most of the team did well.  Tsukishima and Nakano were at the top of their class.  Even Nishinoya and Tanaka managed to pass their exams.  And then, there was Kageyama and Hinata.  They'd each managed to pass all of their exams - except one.  Meaning they were stuck with a retest on Saturday, and possibly supplementary lessons if they couldn't pass that.  Nakano couldn't believe it.  Tsukishima could.  Kageyama and Hinata seemed to be making plans to get to Tokyo by any means necessary.  While Nakano tried to talk the two out of attempting to bike to the city, Suga pulled Tsukishima aside.

"What is it, Suga-senpai?"

"Tomorrow morning, you might want to get here a little early.  You and Nakano will want to be in the second-year hall when Nishinoya and Tanaka get into their lockers before class," Suga whispered.  

"Oh?"

"Trust me, you'll want to be there.  Don't let all of our hard work go to waste, okay? " Suga's smile was downright devilish.  "And be sure to thank Takeda-sensei afterwards."  He patted Tsukishima's shoulder and moved away.

And so early the next morning, Tsukishima and Nakano made their way up into the second year hall, looking for Tanaka and Noya.  Tsukishima spotted the two just as Nishinoya opened his locker.

And a massive flood of condoms spilled out all over the floor.

Along with bottles of lube.  And a few other interesting items.

Noya yelped and tried to stem the tide, which just resulted in him slipping on a pile of condoms and landing on his butt on the floor.  Tanaka was cracking up, along with all the other students in the hallway, until he opened his locker.

Only to have the same thing happen.

Tanaka was trying desperately to scoop everything back into his locker with absolutely no success.  Tsukishima and Nakano were doubled over with laughter.

"Gentlemen, what is the meaning of this?!"

That was Takeda-sensei.  He was standing over the two second-years, looking as angry as they'd ever seen him.  Both boys paled.

"Sensei...we..." Noya started.

"This is disgraceful!  Am I to allow boys like you to represent our school at a prestigious training camp with other volleyball teams?  Perhaps you both should remain here and clean this hallway top to bottom!"  Takeda, despite his small stature, seemed to loom over the boys.

Nakano looked at Tsukki.  "You don't think he'd really forbid them to go, do you?"

Tsukishima shook his head.  "Suga said to thank Takeda-sensei after this, remember?  I think he and Daichi arranged this to scare the heck out of them without them actually getting in trouble."  

Noya and Tanaka were on their knees in a pile of prophylactics, begging Takeda-sensei to have mercy on them.  

Takeda pulled a large trash can out of a nearby classroom.  "Get everything picked up and thrown into this trash can.  And then report to me immediately in my office!"  He leaned over and whispered something to the boys, who shivered and began scooping up condoms frantically.  "The rest of you, go on about your business, please."  Takeda began walking down the hall, stopping to talk to Tsukishima and Nakano.  "Don't you two be late for class," he said to them, "I'll make sure your senpais think very carefully before deciding to pull a stunt like that again."  He smiled at the two first years.

"Thank you, Takeda-sensei."  Tsukishima said with a small smile.

"Oh, and don't worry.  The Vice-Principal is off campus for a meeting this morning.  I'll make sure everything is long gone before he returns."

"You're the best, Takeda-sensei.  See you at practice!"  Nakano said as the two headed back to their own classroom, still laughing.

🏐🏐🏐

At last exams were over, Nishinoya and Tanaka had apologized profusely to the entire team (and Nakano and Tsukishima separately), and the team was arriving at Nekoma High School in Tokyo, short a couple of first years.  Tanaka's older sister had agreed to get them there as soon as she could after they passed their retests.

Lingering on the bus, Tsukishima held Nakano's hand, pulling her gently back into her seat when she tried to stand up.  "What's the matter, Kei?"

"Be careful of that guy Kuroo, okay?"

Nakano laughed.  "Don't worry, I think between the two of us, we can handle Kuroo-san.  Come on, we're last off the bus, you know what the team will say."

He smirked, running his long fingers along her sides.  "If they're going to say it anyway..."

She shoved him, laughing, and made her way off the bus, with Tsukki following close behind.  

The two went over to where Takeda and Ukai were unloading the bags.  Tsukishima's hands clenched into fists at the sound of a voice calling out.  

"Ogawa-chan!  There's Karasuno's pretty setter!"  Kuroo approached the girl, followed by Kenma, who was busily playing on his phone.

"Kuroo-san, Kenma-san!  How nice to see you both again," Nakano greeted the pair.

"Hi, Ogawa.  Please just call me Kenma, okay?  Shoyo talks about you a lot, so I feel like I know you."

"Thanks, Kenma.  Please call me Nakano."

"And that goes for me too," Kuroo said, smiling at the girl.  "Something looks different...I hope your recovery is going well."

"Yeah, congratulations on getting out of your wheelchair for good."  Kenma said.

"Thanks!  I guess Shoyo told you, huh?"  Nakano smiled, and Kenma returned it.

"Wow, that's great!" Kuroo gushed.  He took Nakano's hand.  "I hope this means you'll let me take you on a tour of our lovely campus one evening this week."  Still a shameless flirt, Nakano thought.  Tsukishima looked daggers at the captain of Nekoma, but was then distracted by the movement of his girlfriend's other hand, signaling him to follow her lead.  He controlled his temper and waited.

Nakano turned to where Tanaka and Yamamoto were yelling about something.  "Uh-oh...what are those boys up to already?" she said with a small pout.

Kuroo's head whipped around, and he yelled "OI!  YAMAMOTO!  KNOCK IT OFF ALREADY YOU DUMBASS!!!"  

And in that brief moment, Nakano got Tsukishima to swap positions with her, putting his hand into Kuroo's.

"Sorry about that," Kuroo purred as he turned back, bringing the hand he was holding up towards his lips.  As his eyes turned back to his original conversation, he started, finding himself staring into angry golden eyes rather than pretty blue ones.  "GAAHH!  Woah, sorry, wrong blonde," he said, dropping Tsukishima's hand.

"Kuroo-san," Tsukishima deadpanned, "I'd really appreciate it if you stopped hitting on my girlfriend."

"Oh yeah, congratulations on that too, Nakano.  Shoyo was amazed you decided to start dating Tsukishima-kun."  Kenma said, not looking up from his game.

Kuroo turned to his setter, his face red.  "What!?  You knew she had a boyfriend and you didn't tell me?"

"You didn't ask," he replied with a shrug.

"So you just let me make an idiot of myself?"  Kuroo growled.

"You do that all the time anyway,"  Kenma walked off.

Kuroo followed after him.  "From now on, I want to know everything that Karasuno's Number 10 tells you..."

Nakano and Tsukishima couldn't help but laugh. "Nice one, Roses," Tsukishima whispered to his girlfriend.  

She smiled at him. "See, I told you there was nothing to worry about.  He's a flirt, but I don't think he's a bad guy.  Although I think we might have to have a little talk with Shoyo when he gets here."  Tsukishima chuckled.  The pair grabbed their bags and started making their way inside.

"There's the third one!  The one who gave us water and towels.  She's so kind and pretty...like an angel..."  Yamamoto was on his knees, sobbing, as Tanaka extolled the virtues and power of Karasuno.  Tsukishima just looked at the two as he and Nakano walked past.

"This is going to be tougher than I thought,"  the blond middle-blocker muttered to himself.  He looked at his beautiful girl.  I guess this is just something I'll have to get used to, he mused.  She glanced at him, shoulder-checking him and smiling.  So worth it, he thought.

🏐🏐🏐

The teams paired against each other for sets, rotating after each one.  Kiyoko, Nakano, and Yachi decided to split up the work as well, with Kiyoko observing the other teams, Nakano observing Karasuno, and Yachi taking care of towels and water for the team.  Nakano tried to stay as active as possible, helping her teammates prepare, observing their play from all angles and taking volumes of notes.  When they lost their first set to Fukurodani, Nakano immediately joined the boys for the flying lap they had to do as penalty.

"Nakano, you don't have do these, you know." Yamaguchi told her as she joined the line of Karasuno players.

"I know, Yams.  But, first of all, the exercise is good for me.  And second, I'm standing...well, okay, flying receiving...with my team." 

Tanaka and Noya burst into tears. "That's Karasuno's angel!  She's always by our side!"  Tanaka called out.

"Don't worry, Nakano!" Noya said, "You won't have to do any more of these!"

Oh, how wrong he was.  Karasuno lost, set after set, not really even coming all that close.

By the sixth loss, everyone on the team was starting to feel little annoyed.  

Nakano was frustrated for her team, but by the same token, she knew this was necessary.  They were playing against some of the most powerful teams in Tokyo, and it was clear they had a lot to learn.  This was just the place to do it too.  Still, it would be nice to take at least one set.  But she knew this kind of thing was going to happen.  This is all part of the process of learning to fly, she thought.

So lost was Nakano in her thoughts, she failed to notice a volleyball, spiked by Fukurodani's ace, headed right towards Tsukishima until it was almost too late.  She immediately started running towards the blonde.  "TSUKKI!" she cried out.

He managed  to bring a hand up to stop the ball from taking him in the face.  She reached him seconds later, grabbing his hand.  "Does it hurt?  Are you okay?" She turned, crying out, "Yachi!  Bring me my bag!"

Tsukishima looked more annoyed than injured.  "It's fine," he growled trying to pull his hand away. 

"Not approved, Tsukki." Nakano said with steel in her voice.  "I'm going to check this out, so stay still."  Yachi brought her medical bag to her.  "Thanks, Yachi.  I'm sorry to keep you running, but can you bring a bottle of cold water here too?"  The girl nodded vigorously and ran off.

Nakano started carefully moving Tsukki's hand and fingers, checking for signs of pain.

Tsukishima relaxed a little.  "Hey, Roses," he whispered, "I really am okay.  Just...frustrated.  And annoyed."

"Me too," she whispered back.  "Take this as a chance to catch your breath.  Bokuto-san's spikes are nothing to sneeze at."

"You know him?" Tsukishima asked.

"Only by reputation.  He's one of the top five aces in the country." 

Yachi ran up and handed the water bottle to Tsukishima.  "Thanks," he said quietly.

"Your hand seems fine," Nakano said, "I'm sorry I didn't see that coming quicker."  He looked at her, seeing pain and frustration, as well as tenderness, in her eyes.  She really is upset that she didn't stop that ball, he thought.  She's...very protective of the people she cares about.  Doubly so for me, as I am now her teammate and her boyfriend.  I hope she doesn't overdo this - she can't save me from everything.

Daichi walked over and clapped Tsukishima on the shoulder.  "Hand alright, Tsukishima?"

"Yes, sir.  Nakano gave it a thorough check."  He sipped some water.

"He's fine, Cap.  Just wanted to be sure.  I'll go get ready for our next set."  Nakano jogged off, medical bag in hand.

Daichi smiled.  "She's something else, our Nakano."

Tsukishima watched her go.  "I couldn't agree more, Captain."  

It took until the ninth set, and Kageyama and Hinata's arrival, for Karasuno to finally avoid the penalty lap.  Nakano sighed in relief.  

"Man, I am so happy to not have to do another flying lap.  My chest is getting downright sore!"  she said, stretching out her chest and arms.

Tsukishima leaned over and whispered in her ear.  "Oh?  Anything I can do to help it feel better?"  He smirked devilishly.

She gave him a smirk of her own.  "Actually, there just might be...later this evening, after things settle down," she whispered, "I'll text you, okay?"  Without waiting for an answer, she walked off towards Daichi.

He shivered, wondering just what she had in mind.  He watched as she led the Captain over to talk to Kuroo.  Just what exactly was she up to?  Well whatever it is, he thought, I won't mind it one bit if it means we get to spend a little time alone together.

🏐🏐🏐

At last the teams called it quits for the day, and everyone gratefully enjoyed a good dinner. Now, as the boys set themselves up for sleep, the girls did the same in a separate room.  Nakano was dressed in sweats and a tee shirt, preparing her futon and getting everything ready.  She had plans for the evening, and was just waiting for the right time to implement them.

The managers were a lively bunch.  Nakano smiled as Yachi seemed to be a little more engaged now that she wasn't surrounded by giant boys.  Even Kiyoko appeared to be a bit more outgoing in these circumstances.  Funny, she thought, I've always felt more comfortable in the company of boys than other girls...except for maybe my teammates when I was on the girls' team in middle school.  I guess I've just never understood the whole girly-girl thing.

Kiyoko was laying back on her futon, watching something on her phone.  "What are you watching, Kiyoko-senpai?" called Nakano.

Kiyoko sat up, a light blush dusting her cheeks, "Snow White with the Red Hair," she replied.

"Oooooh, I love that show!" Kaori, one of Fukurodani's managers, gushed.  She gave Kiyoko a wicked grin.  "Zen or Mitsuhide?"

Kiyoko chuckled, "Zen, of course."

Ubugawa's manager, Eri, scoffed.  "Mitsuhide, all the way!"

Nakano laughed.  "I'm with Kiyoko on this one, I'd smash Zen."

Mako, Shinzen's manager, clapped her hands.  "Excellent idea, Nakano!  It's time for Smash or Pass, ladies!"

Kaori smiled.  "Alright, I'll suggest the next one."  She paused a moment, thinking, then grinned.  "Katsuki Yuri!  I'd smash!"

All the girls chimed in with the same answer, except for Yachi.

"You don't think Yuri is a cutie, Yachi?" Mako asked.

"N-no...I mean, I do...b-but...isn't he...gay?"  the little blonde stammered out, looking nervous.

Yukie, Fukurodani's other manager, laughed. "Sure, but that doesn't matter for this game.  After all, it's not like we can actually date these boys anyway!"

Yachi chuckled.  "I guess you're right about that," she said relaxing a little.  "I...I'd smash, then."

"My turn!" called Mako.  "I so would smash Armin!"

"Oh yeah," Eri agreed, "those blue eyes...smash!"  Once again, Yachi was the only one who disagreed.

"Pass," she said, "Everything about Attack on Titan scares me!"

"Me next!" Yukie sang out.  "Senku!  Smash!"

All the girls laughed, calling out "Pass!" except for Nakano, who said "Yeah, I'd smash Senku."

Yachi looked at her with a smile.  "What?" Nakano said, "I like guys who a have a brain."

Kaori grinned.  "Kuroo did seem to take an interest in you right off the bat, Nakano..." she said teasingly.

"Oh stop it," Nakano scoffed, "he's just a huge flirt.  Anyway...my turn.  What about Karma?  It's a pass for me."

"Awww, poor Karma!  Well I'd smash for sure!"  Yukie cried out.  Eri agreed with her, while the others all decided to pass.

"How about Sebastian!  I'd smash!" Kaori declared.

"Who?" asked Yachi.

"From Black Butler.  The demon.  I'd smash," Yukie replied, "He's all kinds of delicious."

The rest of the girls all agreed.  "What about Ootori Kyoya?" asked Nakano.  "I'd smash."

"You and your nerdy boys!" Kaori laughed, as the rest of the girls all agreed they'd pass.

"Ummm..." Yachi began, "I...uh...I'd smash Tachibana Makoto..."

"Oh yes!"  Kaori yelled, "I love Free!  I don't think there's a single boy from that show I wouldn't smash."

Nakano laughed.  "Even Momo?"

Yachi laughed too.  "Momo is so adorable!  I'd smash him too!"

"We haven't even talked about My Hero Academia yet!  I'd smash Deku!"  Mako called out.

Yukie laughed.  "Bakugo!"

"Oh yeah, he's amazing.  I'd smash Bakugo." Eri agreed.

"All-Might."  said Yukie, in her best All-Might voice.  The other girls laughed.  "What?  He's extraordinary.  If you're gonna go, go big, I always say."  Yukie declared.

"That is so wrong, Yukie," Kaori said, laughing.

"Todoroki," said Kiyoko.  "Yeah!" agreed Yachi and Nakano.

Mako laughed.  "Well, Karasuno has a united front there."

Eri gave the girls a wicked grin. "Speaking of Karasuno...what about their captain?  I'd smash him for sure.  He's dreamy."

Kiyoko looked at her.  "Daichi?"  She'd never really thought about most of her teammates that way.

Eri nodded.  "Mhhmmm.  Ooooh...or maybe that setter of yours...number 9...what's his name?"

"Nope," Nakano said, grabbing her bag, "Sorry ladies, but I cannot play Smash or Pass with our teammates."  She laughed and headed for the door.

"Where are you going?" Kiyoko asked.

"Kuroo said there's an empty room nearby I can use for my exercises and leg treatment.  Don't worry, I'll be fine.  I need to do some extra exercises because I didn't work out much today.  Don't wait up for me." Nakano headed out.

"Party pooper!" Kaori called jokingly.  

Nakano paused just outside the door and laughed.  "Please, feel free to continue.  I just don't think I can deal with you guys talking about wanting to smash my team, especially Kags.  Besides, you already know which one I want to smash."  She winked and left.

"What did she mean by that?" Mako asked.

"She's dating our number 11, Tsukishima." Yachi said.

Yukie practically fangirled.  "Oooooh, lucky lady!  He's totally smash-worthy."

Mako threw her pillow at Yukie.  "Yukie!" she laughed, "Don't say that about another girl's boyfriend!  No wonder Nakano wanted out of here!"

The room quickly dissolved into a proper pillow fight.

🏐🏐🏐

Indeed, Nakano was thinking just that as she walked down the hall towards the room Kuroo had told her about.  The last thing I need to hear is how many of them would love to smash Kei, she thought.  It was weird enough that one of them thought that about Tobio-chan. 

The room Kuroo had directed her to appeared to be a teacher's lounge of some sort.  A couple of couches, a table and some chairs, a coffee setup, and plenty of floor space.  Perfect, thought Nakano, I think this will work out just fine.  She grabbed her phone and texted Tsukishima.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey you!  When you can, come join me.  I'm in a room Kuroo said would be okay for me to use for leg exercises and treatment.  Third door past the vending machines on the left.  I need to do some extra exercises, so no rush.

My Kei 💖
No overdoing it Roses.  Be there as soon as I can.  Daichi is trying to get everyone to settle down and get some sleep.  Hoping I can get away soon.

Queen Setter 🏐
Good.  I miss you. 😘

Nakano took off her sweatpants, leaving her in just her black exercise shorts and her tee shirt.  She began doing her workout routine, hoping to get as much exercise in as possible before Tsukki showed up, since she knew he would want her to take it easy.  Knowing how long it could take to get the boys settled down, she figured she should have at least twenty minutes.

It ended up being a full forty-five minutes before the door gently creaked open and Kei walked in.  

"Ugh, I'm sorry that took so long.  Hinata and Inuoka would not shut up."

"Inuoka is staying with you guys?"

"No, he was hanging out with the Shrimp and would not go away.  Daichi finally had to get Kuroo to come drag him out."  Nakano chuckled.  "Have you been working out this whole time?" Tsukki asked her.

"Yep," she replied, "Got in a nice workout tonight."

"Don't you think you should stop now?  It's been a long day."

"For you, maybe!  Remember, I didn't play in any of those sets today.  Believe me, I needed this."  Nakano finished up the exercise she was currently doing and went into stretches.  "Wanna stretch with me?"

Tsukishima smiled and helped her stretch out, doing some himself as well.  "So," he asked, smirking at the girl, "need me to massage your chest after all those flying laps today?"

She leaned forward and kissed him sweetly.  When she tried to pull away, however, he ran a hand into her hair, keeping her in place.  The kiss became more passionate as his tongue asked for, and received, permission to enter.  The smallest of moans escaped Nakano's mouth just as the door to the lounge opened.

"Hey, Nakano, did you...whoops!"  Kuroo stopped halfway into the room as Tsukishima and Nakano stopped kissing and turned to look at him.  "Uh...sorry about that.  Just wanted to make sure this was working for ya...I guess it is."  He smirked at the two.

Nakano blushed a little but smiled at the captain.  "Thank you, Kuroo, yes, this is perfect."

"And...uh...sorry about earlier too..." Kuroo rubbed the back of his neck.  "I'm not in the habit of asking out other guys' girlfriends, just so you know."

Nakano chuckled while Tsukishima just rolled his eyes.  "I didn't think you were Kuroo.  Don't worry about it.  Since Kenma didn't think to tell you, there's no way you could have known,"  Nakano said.

"No hard feelings then?" the bedhead asked.

"No, of course not," Nakano replied.

Kuroo smiled.  "Well then, I'll...uh...let you get back to it,"  he turned his gaze to Tsukishima and smirked as he started to close the door.  "Don't do anything I wouldn't do, Tsukishima-kun."

"I think that leaves me a pretty clear playing field, Kuroo-san." Tsukki replied in a monotone.  They heard Kuroo's hyena-like laugh as he shut the door.

After a beat, the two laughed.  Tsukishima ran his hand into Nakano's hair again.  "Good thing he came in when he did, or he might have interrupted your massage," he said, looking at Nakano suggestively.

"Speaking of," Nakano began, "would you be willing to let me teach you how to massage my legs?"

Tsukishima blinked.  He'd thought she was kidding about the whole massage business.  The thought of actually getting to massage Nakano's legs sent a pleasant thrill through him.  "Uh...well...I'd like that...but do you think it's a good idea to do here?"

She chuckled.  "Well, even if you don't want to learn, I'd have to do it anyway.  Do you think watching me massage my legs will be any less of a turn-on?" She leered at him.

"Fair point," he said, shuddering a bit.  Dammit, why am I getting turned on just because she said turn-on, he thought.  He took a deep breath.  "I'd really like to be able to help you with your therapy, if I can."

She smiled sweetly at him.  "Okay, then," she said, getting her bag and pulling out her medication.  "Let me show you how to massage this in properly."  

She slowly and carefully showed Tsukishima the proper technique for massaging her legs, first without the cream, and then with it.  As she expected, Tsukishima's long fingers and strong hands were well suited to this sort of thing.  Soon, Nakano was able to simply sit back and let Tsukki take care of her legs.  She found the entire process to be incredibly sensual, once he'd gotten the hang of it.  Oh my gosh, she thought, I'd like him to be able to do this for me every single time, it feels so much better when he does it.  She watched his face as he worked his way up towards her left thigh.  He seemed to be concentrating deeply on her skin.  Good god he is so sexy, she thought, this is way more of a turn-on than I thought it would be.

Tsukishima's thoughts were running along the same lines.  As he worked the muscles of her legs the way she'd shown him, he watched her body carefully.  She's so beautiful, he thought.  His hands were moving up her legs, getting dangerously close to the top of her left thigh.  He was trying to remember that this was therapy, that she needed this to make sure her legs would be strong for tomorrow, but all he could think of was how close his hands were getting to her private area.  Thank goodness I'm in loose shorts, he thought, or she'd be getting quite a view right about now.  As it was, his boxers felt uncomfortably tight.

His hands worked a tense muscle in her thigh, and Nakano gave voice to a grunt and then a soft, pleasurable sigh as the muscle relaxed.  Tsukishima couldn't take any more.  With a small groan of his own, he pushed forward, forcing Nakano to lie back further as he captured her lips aggressively.  In doing so, he pressed himself against her, allowing Nakano to feel just how excited he was.  She let him continue, but once he moved to kiss down her jaw and neck, she spoke up.

"Mmmmm...not that I don't love this, but you'd better wash your hands," she said, gently sitting more forward and trying to get him to disengage.  "Remember, that cream is medicated.  Focus for a second and I bet you're already feeling it in your palms."

Tsukishima pulled himself back with an effort.  She was right, he could feel a strange itchy tingle starting in the palms of both his hands.  He sighed in frustration.  "You're right, I can feel it," he stood up, heading over to the sink.  "Is it dangerous if this stuff gets on anything other than my hands?"

She chuckled, giving him a wicked smile.  "Let's just say I wouldn't...ah...adjust yourself until you've washed it off.  It's pretty similar to over-the-counter muscle creams, but it's stronger, with a longer activation time and total duration.  You don't want to get it on sensitive areas."

He threw her a look that spoke volumes about his current situation.  "Good to know," he deadpanned.  She laughed, pulling on her sweatpants.

She came up and hugged him from behind, carefully keeping her hands high on his body.  "Will you be okay?" she asked softly.

He chuckled as he finished washing his hands, turning around to face her and return the embrace.  "Yes, of course I will."  Even if I have to take care of things in the men's room before going to bed, he thought wryly.  "I hope you'll let me do that again for you," he said, kissing her forehead gently.

"Mhmm, I'd like that too," she replied.  "I know it's late, but can we just cuddle a bit?"

He smiled at her, taking her hand and leading her to one of the couches.  He sat down first, inviting her to sit in front of him and lean on him.  She snuggled into him as he wrapped his arms around her, taking in her scent and playing with her hair.

She sighed.  "You sure you're okay?  I'm sorry I was so selfish...I didn't consider the effect this might have on you before I asked you to do it."

"I'm fine," he kissed the top of her head, "Better than fine, actually.  This is a very nice way to end a long day.  Besides...did it not feel good for you too?"

"You bet it did.  Best massage ever." She chuckled. "There's a reason I pulled my sweatpants back on before sitting on this couch, you know."  She looked up at him with a mischievous grin.  

"Oh really?" he smirked at her in return.  "Well then, if we both enjoyed it so much, there wasn't anything selfish about it."  He placed quick kisses all up and down the right side of her face as she giggled and squirmed.  "Why do you always think of yourself as selfish, Nakano?" he asked. 

He felt her tense up a little, he gently rubbed her arms to soothe her.  She sighed again.  "I've had to do some pretty terrible things to get to this point, Kei.  I've been awful to so many people.  All so I could have what I wanted."

"Your mom and Amalie?"

"Yeah...and my dad...Tobio...heck, even Oikawa..."

"He deserved anything he got, from what I've heard."

She chuckled sadly.  "Maybe, but it doesn't mean I'm proud of it.  Even the team has been the victim of my selfishness."

"Nakano, I just don't understand.  How on Earth can you say the team has been your victim?  You've helped our team in so many ways."

"But you've spent time and effort on me and my physical training.  Time that might have better been spent preparing yourselves for these matches."

"Bullshit.  Yes, we've helped you, but you've also helped us.  That's not selfishness.  That's called a relationship, idiot." He flicked the top of her head and she grunted.

"But are you getting enough in return for all that you're giving me?"

He cuddled her close.  "Let me answer that two ways.  I, personally, feel like I've gotten way more in return than you've gotten from me."

"But how can you say..."

"Ssshhhh," he put a finger over her lips, stopping her.  "You asked, I'm telling you.  No contradicting.  And speaking for the team, you do know that every single one of those guys thinks you're amazing, right?  The King isn't the only one who feels like you're his little sister.  So quit thinking like this.  Trust me, you just are not the selfish type.  I know, because I am."

Nakano scoffed.  They sat in silence for awhile as Tsukishima gently petted Nakano's hair.  She's tensed up again, he thought, there's more to this than she's saying, and I'm pretty sure it has to do with her family.  He waited until he could feel the tension in her body lessen before continuing.  "What happened between you and your mom and sister?" he asked softly.  

She sighed, her head dropping against his chest.  She took a deep breath.  "When my accident happened, I was in the hospital for a long time.  My doctor gave me a twenty percent chance of ever walking again.  He explained that even that small chance would come with a high price - several more painful surgeries, physical therapy for years, and even then - no guarantee I'd ever walk, let alone play volleyball.  He worked very hard to convince my family that it would be for the best if I just learned to accept what had happened.  Learned to live with the fact that I would be in a wheelchair for the rest of my life."

"But you couldn't do that."

"I tried, at first.  Well, sort of.  It was really more shock.  I was so overwhelmed, I couldn't process it.  I was twelve years old, and I had no clue what to do.  My parents did as the doctors said, and tried to convince me to accept what had happened.  Amalie did too.  My dad stayed at home as long he could, but then he had to go back to sea."

"Leaving you with just your mom and sister."

"Yeah.  Mom and Amalie were always a pair, you know?  They understood each other.  Me, not so much.  After a little time went by, I began to realize that I just couldn't do what they were asking.  I couldn't just give up and accept that I would have to spend the rest of my life in a wheelchair.  Not when there was a chance I could play volleyball again - even a slim chance.  At that time, volleyball was my whole life.  Everyone I called a friend played volleyball.  My best friend was a 'genius' setter just like me.  My ex-boyfriend played volleyball.  I couldn't imagine living without playing volleyball."

Tsukishima noticed his arm was slightly wet.  Tears were running down Nakano's face, and dripping onto his arm.  He hugged her a little tighter as she continued.

"So...I told my mom how I felt.  She said I just needed more time to adjust.  I told Amalie.  She told me I would learn how to move on in time.  They wouldn't listen.  I kept telling them that I couldn't adjust.  I had to try - even with only a twenty percent chance.  I had do whatever I could to get back on the court." Nakano's voice was beginning to break.  "We fought...oh god...I screamed, threw fits...it got so bad, Kei.  I was a nightmare to them.  I tormented them every day.  They had me in therapy, and I was awful to my therapist.  But inside, I felt like I was fighting for my life."  She broke down in tears.  He held her, stroking her hair.  Letting her cry it out.  

When she finally was able to continue, her voice was small.  "It...it got so bad, my mom had me hospitalized again.  She had to get my dad to come home on emergency leave.  No one else could deal with me.  I demanded new doctors who would stop telling me I had to accept the unacceptable.  I refused to go to therapy any longer.  My mother and my sister kept trying to convince me to stop acting like a child.  To grow up and accept my disability.  I refused to do it."

"What happened when your dad got home?"

She took several deep breaths before continuing, her voice becoming a little steadier.

"He listened.  He listened to me, he listened to Mom and Amalie, he listened to the doctors.  And then...he sided with me.  When my dad makes a decision, you don't cross him.  He told everyone we would be seeking new treatment options and that was it.  That's what we did."

"I'm glad he did.  It's your body, and your life.  It was about time somebody listened to you.  No one else had any right to make that decision for you."

Nakano chuckled softly.  "That's almost exactly what Dad said when he told my mom to stop pressuring me to accept what I couldn't."

"Wise man.  I really am looking forward to meeting him."  Nakano chuckled again.  "Nakano, you weren't being selfish.  You really were fighting for your life...this life.  The life you have now.  Don't you believe it was worth fighting for?"

"Yes, of course I do.  But I was so awful to them...and that was just the beginning.  My dad had to take a leave of absence from his post to deal with it all - my mom couldn't handle it.  And the cost...my gosh, Kei, I can't even fathom how much money my family has spent on my surgeries, my treatments..."

"Nakano.  Please.  I am very sure your family considers all of that money well spent.  I've met your mom - she doesn't seem like she's holding a grudge.  Why do you always blame yourself for things you don't control?"

"Kei, you didn't hear the things that were said.  The shouting matches.  The screaming.  The fights my parents had over money that they didn't think I could hear.  The times my mother and sister cried in frustration because they didn't know how to handle me while my dad was away....again, when they thought I couldn't hear.  All so I could be a volleyball player again.  Did I really have to make so many people so miserable so I could be happy?  Who am I to believe that my happiness is worth more than theirs?"  Tears were running down her face again.

"Look at me," he commanded.  She turned to face him, and he took her face in his hands.  His honey golden eyes stared straight into her blue ones, rich with emotion.  "This is about way more than volleyball.  This is about you.  You were the one who was hurt.  You were the one whose future was almost taken away.  You were the one who had to fight to regain her life.  All because of a drunk driver.  If you want to blame someone, blame them.  They made you suffer, they made your parents suffer, they made your sister suffer.  Naka-chan, no matter how much pain the people around you have had to go through, I guarantee you they would all say it was worth it to see you as you are now - healthy, strong, almost able to be a volleyball player again.  Who are you to believe your happiness is worth something?  I'll tell you.  You are Ogawa Nakano, and you damn well better believe you're worth it.  Do you not see the positive influence you've had on so many people's lives?  Do you need proof?  I'm sitting right here in front of you." He wiped her rapidly falling tears with his thumbs, and his own voice began to quaver.  "I never thought I'd...well...I didn't think I'd ever find anyone like you.  So...I don't care how many people you think you've hurt.  It brought you here, to me, and that means it was all worth it.  And if that makes me selfish, well, then I don't care about that either.  I'm happy to be selfish if it means you're here in my life."

She stared at him, crying, seemingly in shock at his words.  He smiled at her, reaching over to the table for the box of tissues sitting there.  He handed it to her.  "Go on, blow your nose.  I've got to sleep in this tee shirt, so you can't be getting your snot all over it."

She stared at him a long moment, then laughed.  She grabbed some tissues and cleaned herself up a bit, blowing her nose twice.  "Better?"  she asked him.

"Yep," he replied.  She buried herself in his chest, still laughing and crying, but only slightly.  He held her tightly, rubbing gentle circles on her back.

"Did...did you really mean what you..." she began.

"One thing I will never do is lie to you, Roses.  Never ever.  If I said it, I meant it.  Believe in that."

They sat quietly as Nakano's tears subsided, and all the tension seemed to drain out of her.  When her breathing became regular, Tsukishima spoke again.

"Are you feeling better?" he asked her.

"I...I am.  I don't understand how you do this to me.  It's like I can't keep myself from telling you everything that's inside me.  You're like...truth serum or something."

He chuckled.  "Well, you've done the same to me, so it only seems fair."

She laughed.  "Thank you, Kei.  It feels...good to be able to share this stuff with someone, even if it does make me cry."

"Good.  I'm glad it helps."  He cupped her face in his hand and kissed her, a soft, warm, long, sweet kiss.  As he finally pulled away, she chased after him, giving him several small kisses.

"Ugh...it's late, isn't it?" she said.

"Yep.  We'd really better get some sleep.  They won't let us sleep in tomorrow, no matter how late we stay up."

She grumbled.  "I wish we could just sleep here."

He smirked at her.  "Dating barely more than a week and you already want to sleep with me?"

"Says the guy who had a condom in his pocket on our first date," she teased him.  They gathered their things and Tsukki walked her back to the girls' room.  He gave her a lingering kiss on her forehead.  

"Goodnight, Roses," he whispered.

"Goodnight , Kei," she whispered before slipping into the darkened room where the girls were sleeping.

Has it really only been a little more than a week? It seemed hard to believe.  He felt like she'd been a part of him forever.  I got to understand a little more about her tonight, he thought.  The thought that he was the one she chose to share her innermost self with allowed him to fall asleep with a small smile on his lips.

Chapter Text

Karasuno worked hard.  The boys pushed themselves, but quickly realized they were definitely the weakest team at the camp, losing set after set.  As the penalty laps mounted, it became a struggle to keep their optimism.  But as Takeda-sensei kept reminding them, being at the bottom meant they had only one direction to go.

The three girls worked equally hard, taking good care of the boys and making sure they had what they needed, as well as recording everything the boys could do to improve, and what the other teams were doing that Karasuno might need to try.  Nakano managed to get in occasional practice with some of the Karasuno boys, usually when they needed to work on something individually.  Despite the insistence of her team, and pressure from the other managers, Nakano continued to take the penalty laps with her boys.  Any time someone told her it wasn't necessary, she replied with the same sentence.

"I stand with my team."

This did not fail to register on the boys of the other teams as well.  By the second day of the camp, the story of the Queen of the Court and her struggle to return to volleyball had gotten around, despite Nakano's pleas to her team to not talk about it.  But the team found it hard to do that when boys from other teams started making up their own reasons why one of Karasuno's managers would keep taking the penalty laps.  Tanaka, Nishinoya, and surprisingly Daichi, were the most ardent defenders of the girl, who with the best of intentions, probably shared more than they should have.  Tanaka and Noya naturally felt an obligation to defend their team's 'angel', while Daichi simply did not want rumors flying around that might make Nakano uncomfortable.  If there has to be talk, Daichi thought, at least let it be the truth of the matter.  

And so it happened one evening that as Karasuno was taking their final penalty lap of the day, the ace of Fukurodani wandered over to talk to the captain of Nekoma.

"So you're telling me that little girl is actually a great setter, Kuroo?" The spike-haired ace leaned on his friend's shoulder and jutted his chin at the girl on the end of the Karasuno line.  "I dunno if I can believe that..."

"Trust me, she can set with the best of them." Kuroo laughed.

"But she's just a little girl!"

"Bokuto, she's actually kind of tall for a girl, ya know?"

"She's shorter than me."

"Bro, most girls are shorter than you!  What's that got to do with it?"

"I just don't think she could set for me like Akaashi does, ya know?"

"Well, I'm sure she doesn't set like Akaashi, but she's still a good setter, right Kenma?"  Kuroo threw a glance at his setter, who was on his phone, naturally.

"Yeah," Kenma said, not looking up.  "She's a good setter."

"I just don't think I can believe it unless I see it," Bokuto said, shaking his head.

"Well, that should be easy to arrange," Kuroo said with a smile.  "Hey, Nakano!"  He waved the girl over.

Nakano came up to them, drinking from a water bottle.  "Hey Kuroo.  What can I do for you?"  Tsukishima followed behind her, not entirely trusting the look on the Nekoma captain's face.

"Toss for us, will ya?" Kuroo smiled.

"You and Bokuto-san want to hit my sets?"  She looked at the two boys curiously.

"Yeah," Bokuto said, "Kuroo says your sets are great, but I need to see for myself."  He gestured at himself with his thumb.  

"Alright," the girl replied.  She looked at her boyfriend.  "You want in on this, Tsukki?"

Tsukishima sighed.  He didn't really, it had been a long day, and he was tired.  But he wasn't about to leave his girlfriend with these two characters.  "Sure, I'll hit a few."

"It'll be easier if someone returns them across the net...hey Ken..." Kuroo began.

"No," Kenma said, not looking up from his game.

"I'll do some receives," Akaashi said, wandering up.  

"Me too," said Kageyama, also coming up to the group.  "And I'll hit a few of your sets, if that's okay, Nakano."  

"Let me handle those receives, guys," Nishinoya said, joining in.  "I'll send it right back to you, Nakano."

"All right, I'll hit a few as well then," Akaashi said.

"Hey, hey, hey! Sounds like the making of a great spiking drill!  Let's do it!"  Bokuto shouted, looking very pumped up.

Asahi ran up to Nishinoya's side of the net.  "I'd like in, too.  I'll start over here, for a receive, okay?  Then rotate around."

"Perfect,"  Kuroo looked at Nakano, who had set her water down and was flexing her fingers.  "Ready, Nakano?"

"Let's do it, Kuroo." She said.  

The boys began a rotation, hitting a toss from Nakano, then crossing around to the other side of the net to attempt a receive before returning to the back of the line to spike again.  Nishinoya made sure the ball got back across the net to Nakano so everything could keep moving.  It wasn't long before Hinata jumped on the back of the line, eager to take a few shots as well.  It went surprisingly smoothly through several rotations, the ball rarely touching the ground.

"See," Kuroo said to his owlish buddy, "I told you she was a good setter."

"Yeah, she's great!  This is awesome, bro!"  Bokuto was really excited by this time, he was up to hit next, after Tsukishima.

Tsukki took a strong shot directly at Kageyama, who was on the other side to receive after his hit.  Kageyama managed to get it, but it went high and long, very out of control.

"Sorry!" Kageyama called.

Bokuto chuckled, "I'll go get..."

Kuroo stopped him.  "Watch," he said, pointing at Nakano, "and then get ready to take your shot.  Something tells me she won't let a crazy receive stop her."

Nakano was already in motion, intent on getting to the ball.  She leaped in the air, hands coming up to set.  "BOKUTO-SAN!!!!" she yelled, sending a toss across the court to the ace.  He slammed the ball down on the other side of the net, neither Nishinoya nor Tsukishima able to get to it.

"HEY, HEY, HEY!!" Bokuto cheered, "That was an awesome set! You were right Kuroo, she's great at this!"  Nakano laughed as she jogged back over to the net.  

"Thanks, Bokuto-san."  She smiled at the crazy guy, who was now bouncing around her.  

"That really was quite a set," Akaashi said.  "Where did you play in middle school?"

"I was at Kitagawa First,"  the girl replied, "But I was in a car accident my first year and haven't been able to play since.  I'm just now getting to the point where I can play full games again."

"Well, I hope you'll be able to return to a team soon," Akaashi said, "You're really very talented."

"Thank you, Akaashi-san."  Nakano said with a smile.

Kageyama came up and slung an arm around his best friend.  "She's the best," he said.

Tsukishima came up behind the two.  "Boyfriend trumps best friend," he said, moving Kageyama's arm and wrapping his arms around the girl.  "Mine," he whispered in her ear, so only she could hear.  She chuckled. Kageyama glared at the blonde, but seeing the smile on Nakano's face, he just rolled his eyes and moved to the side.  The other Karasuno boys came and stood by their teammates.  

"She already is part of a team," Asahi said, "and we're lucky to have her."  

"Yeah!" Nishinoya spoke up, "She's our angel!"

"Guys," Nakano said, "Stop it, you're too much."

"Akaashiiiii!" Bokuto whined, "We should get an angel for our team!  That would be so cool!"  Akaashi just looked at his ace.  And where exactly do you propose we get an 'angel' from, Bokuto-san, he thought.

"Well you can't have ours!" Shoyo spoke up, "Nakano's a crow, not an owl!"

Kuroo broke into his hyena laugh.  "Come on, are we talking, or are we playing?" he asked.

Just then, Eri popped her head into the gym.  "Hey, if you guys don't hurry up, you're not getting any dinner..."

The room cleared amazingly fast, the boys hurrying to get food.  Tsukki walked slowly with Nakano, keeping an arm around her shoulders.  She slipped hers around his waist.

"See?  What did I tell you?  Everyone on our team will stand up for you, just like you do for them.  Do you think any of them would say you've been selfish?  Taken more than you've given?"

"Okay, okay, I get it," the girl said, blushing.  "Boy, you're irritating when you're right."

He smirked at her.  "I must be irritating a lot then."

"You said it, I didn't," she laughed as they headed into the dining hall to join the others.

🏐🏐🏐

By the final day, irritating was a good word to describe what most of Karasuno was thinking about the penalty laps.  Everyone felt edgy, like something was about to break.  The entire team knew that if they were going to make it to Nationals, change needed to come, and come soon.  They could each feel it, like a strange itching under their skin.  None of them were able to voice it...it was just something they could all feel.  An itch they couldn't scratch.

And then Hinata collided with the ace.

Eager to develop his own abilities, Shoyo was so focused on the ball, he didn't even realize it was meant for Asahi.  He couldn't hear the calls of his teammates, all he knew was the ball.  Asahi never thought the little middle blocker would take a shot meant for him.  And so, a mid-air collision.

And everything happened at once.

Two players hit the ground.  Nakano grabbed her medical bag and ran to them.  They each started to apologize to one another.  She tried to stop them from moving.  Several players yelled at Hinata.  Then Coach yelled at Hinata.  Nakano lost it.

"SHUT UP!!!!" she cried.  "You can all yell AFTER I've checked them out and made sure no one is injured.  And you two," she turned her piercing blue eyes on Asahi and Hinata, "DO NOT MOVE!  You got that?!"

Asahi and Hinata both froze, afraid to move at all.  The rest of the team felt largely the same way.

"Well damn," Tanaka said quietly, "and just like that, the badass is back.  Do not piss her off, boys, she'll eat you for breakfast."

Yamaguchi walked over to Tsukishima.  "Um...Tsukki?  Nakano seems really upset..."

Tsukishima nodded.  "She takes this kind of thing very seriously, for obvious reasons.  I'm just going to stay out of her way unless she needs something.  I suggest you do the same."

Nakano checked over both players carefully, her eyes and voice soft and caring.  Fortunately, there had been no head contact, and other than a bruise or two where they impacted each other and the ground, neither player was the worse for wear.  She called for two bottles of water, and asked both Hinata and Asahi to stand and walk around a bit to make sure there were no lingering effects.  Once both boys had some water in them and seemed able to walk around with no problems, Nakano moved off the court with her bag.  She approached Coach Ukai and bowed.

"I'm sorry I interrupted the game, Coach," she began, "but a mid-air collision like that could have been really bad.  I wasn't about to let it go unchecked, no matter how 'fine' the players said they felt."

"Don't apologize, Legs," Coach said, "You had it exactly right.  None of us should ever take anything like that less than seriously.  You got that, guys!?  Pay attention!  Now get back to it!"  Ukai looked at the girl, who was still bowing.  "Hey," he said softly, "you okay, Legs?"

Nakano stood up.  "Yeah, I'll be alright.  I'm sorry again Coach."  She moved off to the far side of gym, sitting on the floor with her back against the wall.   Ukai caught Sugawara's eye and jerked his head toward the girl.  Suga jogged over and sat down next to her.

"Nakano?  You okay?" the boy asked in a gentle voice.

"Yeah, Suga-senpai, I'll be fine."

"You don't look it."

She sighed.  "It's just...that was a symptom, Suga.  You feel it, don't you?  It's like...tension that won't ease.  And that collision - Hinata going for a ball meant for the ace - it's just turned that tension up another couple of notches."

"Yeah, I know what you mean.  We're on the edge of something, and breaking out into what we're going to become isn't necessarily going to be easy.  But...if we're the team I think we are, we'll make it through."  He put a hand on her shoulder.  "You'll be there to help us, won't you?"

She looked up at his face for the first time, and saw his sweet smile.  She couldn't help but return it.  "Of course I will, Suga-senpai.  You guys are my family.  I just have this awful feeling that somehow, it's going to get worse before it gets better."

He chuckled.  "Well, it might.  Your instincts are usually pretty good.  But whatever happens, as long as we come through it stronger on the other side, it will have been worth it."  He stood up and offered her his hand, which she took, letting him help her up.  "I'd give you a hug right now, but I think both Tsukishima and Kageyama might be able to physically injure me with their eyes," he laughed.

She turned her gaze to the boys in question, who each started and returned their focus to the game.  "I'll take that hug now, Suga-senpai."  He gave her a quick hug, laughing, and the two walked back over to their team.

🏐🏐🏐

At last it was time to head back to Karasuno.  The team was loading their gear, and taking some time to say goodbye to their friends and rivals.  

Nakano was bringing the team bags to be loaded up, as well as her own.  As she brought the last two bags over to Coach Ukai, Kenma walked over to her.  

"It was nice to see you again, Nakano.  I'm glad you were here to set for Kuroo and those guys...they always want me to do it, and I get too tired."  Kenma said with a small smile.

Nakano laughed.  "I was happy to set for them, Kenma, and it was really nice to see you too.  We'll be back soon, and I hope maybe we can play a set or two together."

"Now that's a great idea," said Kuroo, coming up behind Kenma.  Kenma just sighed.  "Oh no...now he's going to definitely want to play extra just to make sure that happens," Kenma looked defeated.

"Hey, Kuroo-bro!" Bokuto yelled out, running up behind Kuroo and slinging an arm over his shoulders.

"What's up, Boku-bro?" Kuroo asked, making Kenma roll his eyes and walk away.  Nakano just chuckled.

"I don't think we can let her leave us!  Don't you think she should stay here and help us practice?  I think we need her!"  Bokuto smiled widely at the girl.

"Now wait a minute, bro, do you mean she should stay with Fukurodani, or with Nekoma?"  Kuroo said, looking at his friend with a cheeky smile.

"We could share her, right?  She could go back and forth between the schools and help us both!"  Bokuto's face lit up, excited at the idea.

Nakano laughed.  "You two are crazy.  We'll be back in two weeks, and Kuroo has already said we need to play some games together.  I'll be looking forward to it.  But I can't stay here in Tokyo, Bokuto-san.  I've got my own team to take care of."

Bokuto suddenly went from excited and happy to sad and pouty.  "Awwww, come on!  You could stay and catch up with your team in two weeks right?"  He suddenly grabbed Nakano into a hug, lifting her off the ground.  "Please stay with us, Naka-chan!"

The temperature in the vicinity seemed to drop precipitously as twelve pairs of eyes turned to stare intently at Bokuto.  The Fukurodani ace was oblivious, but Kuroo was not.  "Uh...bro?  I think you'd better put Nakano down.  Like right now, dude."  

"Huh?" Bokuto placed the girl back on the ground, and looked up to see Nishinoya, Kageyama, Tsukishima, and Ennoshita all standing before him, looking slightly murderous.  As soon as Nakano's feet were on the ground, Tsukishima pulled her close to him, and Kageyama stood in front of her.

"Hey, guys, it's okay...Bokuto didn't mean any harm..." Nakano started.

Ennoshita stepped forward.  "Did Nakano tell you that you could call her by that nickname, Bokuto-san?"  The boy's voice was calm, but there was an edge to it that was very clear.  He wasn't at all happy.  

"We can call her that, because we're her team," Nishinoya said, "so unless she told you you're allowed to call her that, you'd better watch it.  She's been known to slap the heck out of people who call her that when they're not supposed to."

Bokuto now looked close to tears.  "I'm sorry!  I'm sorry Nakano!  I didn't know that was a special thing for you and your team!  I won't do it anymore!"

Nakano laughed aloud.  "Why are all you boys so crazy extra?  Bokuto-san, I forgive you.  But yes, that nickname is kind of special to me and my team.  But it was wonderful meeting you, and I'm really looking forward to playing some games with you in two weeks.  You too, Kuroo." 

"We'll see you then, guys.  I'd tell you to take care of this little lady, but it looks like you've already got that well in hand," Kuroo chuckled and led his overenthusiastic friend off.  

"Bye guys!  Bye Nakano!  See ya in two weeks!  Woot!"  Bokuto cheered.

Nakano looked at her teammates.  "You guys...you've got to dial it back a little, okay?  I mean, Oikawa's one thing, but most people aren't like him."

Ennoshita gave her a smile.  "Sorry, Naka-chan, but no one gets to use that nickname except us."

"Only the guys in the orange and black, remember?" Noya said.  

She smiled.  "I remember, Noya-senpai."  Ennoshita and Noya headed towards the bus.

Kageyama glared at her.  "What were you thinking, letting him pick you up like that?"

"Hey, Kags, it wasn't something I asked him to do!  He just did it!  He's like a big friendly puppy dog, okay?  Truly, I don't think he meant a thing by it."

"And you!" Kageyama rounded on Tsukishima, "You're her boyfriend!  Where were you when that guy decided to lift her off the ground?"

Tsukishima clenched his fists and glared at the setter. "Look, Your Majesty, don't think you can start telling me..."

"NOPE!" Nakano pushed in between the two boys.  "Not approved, boys.  I'm not having this.  I am not a fragile flower that needs constant protection.  I appreciate that you guys care for me, but I can also take care of myself.  So don't even start this, got it?"  She gave each boy a look that showed she would brook no nonsense.

Kageyama took a deep breath and seemed to deflate, all the rage in him dissipating.  "Sorry," he said looking at Tsukishima.  The blonde rolled his eyes.  "Whatever," Tsukishima said, "it doesn't matter."  He turned and walked to the bus.

Nakano sighed.  "I'm sorry, Naka-chan," Kageyama said.  

"It's not entirely your fault, Tobio-chan," she replied, "I know things are super tense right now, for a lot of reasons."  She patted his shoulder.  "Try to get some rest on the bus, okay?  And please don't try to tell Tsukki how to be a good boyfriend, got it?"

He gave her a small smile.  "Got it."  Nakano ran up to the bus to catch up with Kei.

She found him sitting in the middle of the bench seat at the very back of the bus, his eyes closed.  She settled in to his left.  "Kei?" she said softly, "what's wrong?"

"I'm fine,"  he said, neither moving nor opening his eyes.

"A lie of omission is still a lie, and you said you'd never do that."

His eyes opened, and he turned to look at the girl.  I know that voice.  She's not going to let this drop, he thought.  I can see it in those beautiful blue eyes of hers.  She doesn't care that we're on a bus with other people around.  

She spoke softly, almost whispering.  "I'm not spending several hours on this bus with you not talking to me because of something like this.  So let's have it.  Tell me what you're feeling."

Damn, he thought, if I don't tell her the truth, this will just become a bigger mess.  But what kind of man admits this sort of thing?  He looked at her eyes.  They were full of emotion - caring, concern, and just a hint of steel.  She wasn't about to back down.  I love that about her, he thought, she's not some simpering little princess who can't survive without a man to care for her.  A sudden thought struck him.  It isn't that she needs me in her life...it's that she wants me in it.  That's...that's a huge difference.  You can't do this kind of thing without risking getting hurt.  So...here we go.

A small sigh escaped the blonde boy.  "I...I'm sorry I wasn't there when you needed me," he said, his voice barely audible.

"Ah, so that's it," she said.  "Idiot, you were there when I needed you.  You've always been there when I needed you - even when I didn't know it was you I needed.  I wasn't in mortal peril today, Kei.  I wasn't even close to it.  And would you really want that kind of girl?  The kind who collapses when anything even slightly bad happens and waits for someone else to rescue her?  Or do you want a partner?  Someone who you can stand with...and who you know will stand with you?"

There she goes again, he thought, it's like she sees into my very soul sometimes.  How does she get me so well already?  He laced his hand together with hers, and dropped his head on top of her hair.  Her scent reached him.  "Roses..." he breathed, "you amaze me."

She squeezed his hand.  "And you are the best thing that's happened to me in a very long time."

He looked at her, startled.  Did she really just say that?  

She continued.  "So you should know that it's going to take a lot more than a dude that, in all fairness, looks like an owl and acts like an overgrown puppy to keep me from being with you," Tsukishima snickered.  "Oh, and I made sure Kags knows that his opinion on the definition of a boyfriend's job is most definitely not needed."  Tsukishima was now chuckling as he looked over at the raven-haired boy, who was already sound asleep.  "Don't be too hard on either of them, okay?" she said, "They both mean well, in their own way."  She rested her head against his shoulder.

"This has been exhausting," Tsukishima sighed, once again leaning his head on his girlfriend's.

"No argument from me on that one," she replied.

The rest of the team slowly got on the bus.  Yamaguchi came over and sat to Tsukki's right.  "H-hey guys.  Is it okay if I sit with you?"

Nakano chuckled.  "You don't have to ask that, Yams.  Of course it is."

The freckle-faced boy smiled.  "What a crazy camp, huh?"

"That's for sure.  How are you feeling, Yams?" Nakano asked.

"What do you mean?"  Yamaguchi leaned over Tsukki a little, towards Nakano as the bus pulled away, headed back to Miyagi.

"Come on now, I know you feel the same tension that I do.  There's this feeling like...we're on the edge of something.  And crossing over into it is going to be rough...but it's really necessary.  Do you feel it?"  

Tsukishima listened to his girlfriend with a small scowl.  It's so stupid, he thought.  What do we think we're going to be able to become?  I mean, she's not wrong, I feel that tension too.  I just don't understand what difference it's going to make.  Even if we do become this better team they want to be, there's always going to be another better one.  Do they really think we'll beat Aoba Johsai next time?  Or Shiratorizawa?  Yamaguchi and Nakano were continuing to talk about evolving into the team they would become, both of them leaning across Tsukki's body.  It was starting to irritate him.  Ugh, he thought, I don't want to listen to this anymore.  All I want to do is sleep.

"Enough already," Tsukishima said, pulling on Nakano's arm, "Switch with me."

"What the..."  Nakano started as Tsukki got her up and slid across into the spot she'd been in, helping her step over his legs.  She chuckled as he pushed her down next to Yamaguchi, and proceeded to settle himself in with his head on her shoulder, once again interlacing his hand with hers.  He continued to push and prod at her, changing her position until he felt comfortable, as if she were a pillow.

"Are we comfy now, m'lord?" she asked with a laugh.

"Yes," he replied, closing his eyes.  "Now the two of you can chatter away, and I can get some sleep.  Don't move, Naka-chan, I've finally got you settled just the way I want you," he smirked.

"Sorry, Tsukki," Yamaguchi and Nakano said simultaneously.

They laughed and resumed their conversation.  The two friends talked about volleyball, school, and whatever else came into their heads.  Nakano noticed that Yamaguchi glanced at Tsukki from time to time.  After a little while, Tsukki was softly snoring.  Yamaguchi caught the small sound, and looked him over intently.

"What is it, Yams?"

"I think he's finally really asleep," the boy whispered.  "Tsukki is a light sleeper usually...and...uh..."

"Is there something you need to talk to me about without Tsukki hearing?  What's wrong, Tadashi?  You know that you're Tsukki's best friend, and my friend too...if there's something wrong..."

Tadashi waved his hands gently at her.  "Slow down, Naka-chan.  I..." he rubbed the back of his neck, embarrassed, "I just wanted to ask you how things are going between you and Tsukki.  I've not had much chance to talk to you the last couple of weeks."

Nakano colored slightly.  "I'm sorry, Tadashi.  I guess I've been a little...uh..."

Tadashi nudged her gently.  "Preoccupied with love?" he asked, smiling at her teasingly.

"Tadashi!" Nakano whisper-yelled.  She colored even more.

"It's okay, Nakano.  You and Tsukki are in a new relationship.  You're supposed to be preoccupied with each other, right?"

"I...I guess.  But I don't want you to feel neglected.  You're my friend, and I care about you, too."

"I know.  And I care about you.  Both of you, very much."  He paused and looked over at Tsukki, who was still gently snoring.  "Speaking of that...I wonder if you know just how much he cares for you, Naka-chan."

Nakano looked at her friend, startled.  "What do you mean?"

Yamaguchi smiled.  "I've known Tsukki a long time.  Over the years, I've seen more than a few girls confess to him.  Heck, I've carried a few of their messages myself.  He's never been interested.  In fact, he's complained to me on many occasions about how annoying those girls are.  I think at least part of why he keeps up his salty exterior is to fend off the girls who only like him for his looks - as soon as they get a taste of that personality, they run off."  He looked at Nakano with eyes full of emotion.  "But you were different, Nakano, almost right from the very start.  I've never seen any girl capture his interest the way you did.  I...I want you to know how glad I am that the two of you are together.  He really is crazy about you, you know."  He colored a little and looked down.  "I hope that one day, I'll meet someone who makes me act the way you made Tsukki act when he first started to like you."

Nakano patted her friend's shoulder.  "Oh, Tadashi, I'm sure you will.  And that person will be so very lucky to have captured your heart."  She paused, looking intently at her friend. "Wait a minute...Tadashi...did you encourage Tsukki to go out with me?  How long was that going on?"

"Uh..." Yamaguchi was now a definite shade of pink, "well...maybe a little?"  Nakano gave him a look.  He sighed.  "Okay, maybe a lot.  Like...maybe...even a fair bit before that whole thing with you kissing him..."

Nakano chuckled lightly, careful not to disturb her sleeping boyfriend.  "Well, dang, I guess I owe you, Tadashi.  I had a wingman and didn't even know it.  Just wait until someone catches your eye, my friend."  She gave him a wink, and he laughed.

"I hope it doesn't bother you, that Tsukki talks to me about you."

"Of course it doesn't!  You're his best friend, I would expect him to talk to you about everything.  Heck, I'd be more worried if he didn't."

"So I guess you've talked to Kageyama about Tsukki a lot lately then, huh?"

"I..." Nakano froze.  She hadn't really talked to Tobio much at all in the past two weeks, and her most recent words to him were to chide him for yelling at her boyfriend.  "Oh...Tobio-chan..." she breathed, looking at her best friend, who was lolling over Hinata's shoulder, apparently drooling just a little.  She turned back to Yamaguchi.  "I've been a lousy best friend to him lately, Yams.  I've not talked to him at all really."

Yamaguchi smiled gently at her again.  "I guessed as much."

Nakano started.  "How?"

"Well, I'm Tsukki's best friend, and everybody knows that.  Kageyama's your best friend, and everyone knows that too.  So...we both get asked a lot about how things are going between the two of you.  Neither one of us actually says much about it...but I've seen the look on Kageyama's face lately when people ask him.  I think he's feeling a little..."

"...abandoned?"  Nakano finished for him, sadly.

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "Let's call it left out.  I think abandoned might be a little too strong a word at this stage."

She smiled.  "But I don't want it to get that far.  Thanks for this, Yams.  I'll be sure to talk to Kags once we get home."  She leaned over to side hug her friend, causing Tsukki to slide down her side.  The blonde boy groaned and laid his head in her lap, tucking his long legs up onto the bench seat.

"No moving, pillow..." he mumbled, his breathing quickly settling back down into a calm, sleepy pattern.  She chuckled, running her fingers gently through his soft blonde hair.

"Hey, Tadashi?"

"Yeah, Nakano?"

"Do you know why Tsukki holds back in volleyball?  I know he's got the talent.  He just...doesn't seem to want to make the effort.  But he doesn't quit either.  I've been trying to figure out what happened, and how to help."

Yamaguchi sighed.  "I...I can guess why.  We've never really talked about it in depth.  But...I don't think it's my place to tell you anything about that, Nakano.  I'm sorry."

"It's okay, Yams, I totally understand.  Maybe he'll talk about it when he's ready.  But...the team needs to move forward.  And that includes Tsukki.  One of us is going to have find a way to bust through the wall he's put up around his love of volleyball, or he's going to be left behind.  And I don't want to see that happen.  We need him."

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "Maybe this is a job for a girlfriend and her wingman."  Nakano flashed Tadashi a confident smile.

🏐🏐🏐

"Oh my...they look so cute," Yachi whispered.

"Should we wake them up?" Tanaka asked.

"Not until I get at least a dozen more pictures of this," Nishinoya said, working his phone camera.

"Man...they are really out of it.  How has all this not woken them up yet?" Kageyama asked as he, too, snapped several more pictures.

Tsukishima was still curled up on half of the back bench, with his head in Nakano's lap.  And one of her hands was still tangled in his blonde locks.  However, after her conversation with Yamaguchi, she too had fallen asleep, slowly slumping down along Tsukki's body, her other arm draped over him as if holding him in place.  Somehow, he'd managed to get his hand into her hair as well.  To cap the scene off, Yamaguchi had also fallen asleep, and had simply faceplanted into Nakano's side at some point.  The three of them made a curious pile on the back bench, and all three were sleeping remarkably soundly.

"The two lovebirds are delightful, but Yamaguchi just flopped into the side of them is absolutely priceless," chuckled Sugawara, deftly using his phone's panoramic mode to capture the whole scene.

Tsukishima was the first to awaken.  His eyes popped open, catching his teammates with their phones out.  He groaned and shut his eyes again as his teammates tried to hide the fact that they'd been taking pictures of them.

"Don't bother hiding, I already saw all three of you with your phones out," he grumbled. It took the boy a long moment to figure out exactly what the situation was.  He suppressed a chuckle as he took note of his and Nakano's positions.  We're wrapped together like some kind of strange blonde yin-yang symbol, he thought, realizing that they somehow each had a hand in the other's hair.  And guessing by the looks on the other's faces, Yamaguchi must have fallen asleep on Nakano's side as well.  He sighed.  We are never going to live this down.

He began to slowly disentangle himself from his girlfriend.  "Naka-chan, wake up," he said aloud.  She muttered softly in her sleep.  Tsukishima suppressed a smile at how adorable she was.  "Oi, Yamaguchi!"  he said, rather loudly.

"Unnhhh...huh?"  Yamaguchi began to sit up.  It was then that he realized he'd been drooling on his friend's side.  "Oh no...ugh, I'm sorry, Nakano..."

Sugawara laughed.  "Yamaguchi, you drool almost as much as Kageyama!"  

"HEY!" Kageyama complained as everyone began making their way off the bus now that the show was over.

Nakano also sat up, chuckling.  "You do drool a lot when you sleep, Kags."

When the setter scoffed and turned to go, Nakano stood quickly and grabbed his hand.  "Hey, I know we'll be busy here right now, but text me later, okay?  I'm sorry if I've been kind of neglecting you lately."

Kageyama ruffled Nakano's already messy hair.  "It's okay.  New boyfriend, right?  You deserve some time to settle in to that.  But yeah, we can text tonight."  He headed off the bus, following Yamaguchi.

"Last on the bus again," Tsukishima said, wrapping his arms around Nakano.  "What was all that with the King?"

Nakano yawned and stretched in Tsukishima's arms.  "Yamaguchi pointed out to me that I've been a pretty crappy best friend to him the last couple of weeks.  Someone else has been occupying all my time," she said suggestively, kissing her boyfriend's nose.  He scrunched it up.  "Apparently we are a popular topic of conversation, and Yams and Kags get bugged for information a lot."

Tsukki scoffed.  "Come on, Roses, let's get done so I can walk you home and kiss you goodbye."

"So eager to be rid of me?"

"Nope, eager for the kissing part." 

And so it was that a couple of hours later, Tsukishima and Nakano were outside of her house, kissing each other goodbye.  For the third time.

"Ugh, it's going to be miserable having to do my own legs tonight," Nakano complained, still holding on to Tsukki's hand. 

"You'll survive," he said, kissing her forehead.  "I really should be getting home."

She pulled him in for a hug.  "I wish you could stay," she whispered in his ear.  

Oh my gosh Roses, don't say things like that, he thought to himself, you're going to get me all riled up here.  His hand took hold of her chin, and he kissed her lips again.  Things were just beginning to get a little heated when they heard a voice behind them.

"Goodnight, Kei-chan," sang Nakano's mother, standing at the door.

Tsukki colored and bowed slightly.  "Sorry, Ogawa-san.  Goodnight, Nakano."

"Goodnight, Kei," Nakano said softly to him.

Her mom chuckled.  "Get home safe, Kei-chan.  See you soon!"

"Goodnight, Ogawa-san,"  Tsukishima waved back at the two ladies as he headed towards his own house.

"Mom," Nakano complained as her mother shut the door behind them.

"Don't 'mom' me, young lady," her mother said with mock impatience.  "That was quite a kiss you two shared.  I think we'd better have Kei-chan round to dinner soon.  We might need to have a little talk."

"Mom, we're boyfriend and girlfriend.  Aren't we supposed to be kissing?"

Her mother laughed.  "Yes, I suppose so.  But we're still going to need to have that talk if this is moving in that direction so quickly."

Oh my gosh, she is going to kill me.  Not yet dating a month officially and she already wants to have a 'talk' with us.  "Whatever Mom,"  Nakano said, trying to get away.  Her mom pulled her into a hug.

"I'm glad you're home, sweetie.  It's been lonely here without you."

Huh, Nakano thought, I guess it has been lonely for her.  Not that I'm such great company for her most of the time.  But I guess I'm better than nothing.  She thought about what Kei had said to her during their talk on the first night of the camp.  She might not always understand, but she does care.  She hugged her mom back.  "I missed you too, Mom."

"You must be exhausted.  You can tell me all about the camp tomorrow.  For now, why don't you get settled and relax.  I'll bring you something to eat in a little bit."

"Thanks, Mom."

A shower, unpacking, dinner (which ended up involving talking about the training camp after all), and her nightly exercise and massage routine completed, Nakano lay in bed, waiting for Tobio to text her.  It was getting rather late, and she was beginning to worry.  Finally, just as she was thinking she might need to actually call her best friend, her phone went off.

My Big Bro 🤗
Naka-chan, you awake?  I need to talk.

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio, you okay?  You wanna call?

My Big Bro 🤗
No text is better.  My family is asleep and if I talk I might yell.

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio-chan what's wrong?

My Big Bro 🤗
I fought with Hinata.

Queen Setter 🏐
Well you guys fight all the time.  

My Big Bro 🤗
No I mean really fought.  Physically.

Queen Setter 🏐
WHAT?  Did you actually hit each other?  Are you hurt?

My Big Bro 🤗
Well Tanaka-senpai did the actual hitting.  Hinata and I more wrestled each other kinda.

Queen Setter 🏐
ARE YOU HURT!?

My Big Bro 🤗
No not really.  Just upset.

Queen Setter 🏐
Alright.  Explain this please.  You fought with Hinata and Tanaka-senpai?

My Big Bro 🤗
Hinata wanted to hit some tosses but he kept wanting to do it with his eyes open and fight for himself in the air or whatever which of course he can't do and after a whole ton of them I told him I wasn't doing it any more and that coach agreed with me that he has to stop this crap and then he got mad and tackled me and I threw him off and I guess Yachi freaked out and went and got Tanaka-senpai who had to punch us both to pull us off each other.  So yeah.

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio!  What the heck!  You apologized, didn't you?

My Big Bro 🤗
NO!  I'm not wrong here.  He's got to stop thinking he can do whatever he wants on the court.  I'm not gonna set to someone who's gonna screw up.

Queen Setter 🏐
But Tobio it wasn't a game.  It was practice.  How can Hinata get better if you won't let him practice with you.

My Big Bro 🤗
Look Nakano he can't do this.  He's being a stubborn dumbass.  Even Suga-senpai and Coach agree with me.  

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio he's right.  He has to evolve.  He's got more talent than you realize.  If he doesn't move forward, you and the team will leave him behind!  Can't you see that?  There were teams at camp that were able to adapt to your freak quick almost immediately.  What will you do when that's not enough anymore?

My Big Bro 🤗
Why are you taking his side?  I thought you were my best friend!

Queen Setter 🏐
TOBIO!  Don't even pull that crap.  I am your best friend.  But you need to look at this from Hinata's point of view.  What will he do when you're no longer his setter?

My Big Bro 🤗
What?

Queen Setter 🏐
You're basically saying that he's got no hope of getting any better.  That without your incredible ability to set directly to his hand he's virtually useless.  So what happens in three years when we all graduate?  What if you and Shoyo don't end up in the same place?  Does his volleyball career end because you're not his setter any more?  Is that what you want for him?

My Big Bro 🤗
That's not what I'm saying at all.

Queen Setter 🏐
But that's what Hinata is hearing.  And feeling when he's on the court getting blocked or dug up even when you do the freak quick.

My Big Bro 🤗
Dammit I am not the one who is the problem here!

Queen Setter 🏐
Tobio I love you like a brother.  And I want to help.  But the only way forward that I see starts with you understanding that Hinata actually does have a point.  Maybe he's not making it well, but don't just ignore him.

My Big Bro 🤗
I can't even talk about this anymore.  I need some sleep.

Queen Setter 🏐
I'm sorry Tobio-chan.  I know I'm not saying what you want to hear.  But I love you too much to just kiss your ass and tell you you're right.  Because in the end that won't help.  Maybe you need to talk to someone other than me.  Maybe we're too close for this.

My Big Bro 🤗
Maybe you're right.  Goodnight Naka-chan.

Queen Setter 🏐
Night Tobio-chan.  I'll always be here to talk if you need me.

Nakano set her phone aside, knowing she wouldn't hear from Tobio again for a while.  This is what I feared, she thought.  The pressure on the team has brought us to a breaking point.  If Tobio and Shoyo can work this out, we can move forward.  If not...I don't think we have a prayer.

Chapter Text

I was really hoping that after the training camp we could calm down a little.  I wanted to spend time with Nakano off the volleyball court.    But instead, everyone seemed to go into overdrive.  Summer break started, and all that tension Nakano had been talking about seemed to fuel everyone's volleyball drive to insane levels.

Everyone but me, that is.  

I just don't see the point.  I mean, why kill yourself over stuff like this?  But Nakano is at least partially a volleyball idiot too, I suppose, so she's gotten really into all the extra practice and perfecting new weapons and whatever.

When she told me about the fight between the shrimp and the King, I almost laughed out loud.  Almost, because I could see it was really bothering her.  Well okay, I did kind of laugh, but not as much as I really wanted to.  That earned me a smack from my girlfriend, which I probably deserved.  But it's just too hysterical to me.  Those two morons, at each other's throats over something so ridiculous.  The two of them still aren't really talking to each other, which has made practice somewhat more enjoyable, actually.  

Nakano's been working really hard, trying to help people develop new skills.  I end up staying late at practice a lot, because I don't want her walking home alone.  Plus, that walk home is time we can spend together.  I wish we were spending more of this break with each other, and not just with the team.  

Of course, I've not particularly asked her for time together.  In fact, we've not been on an official date since our first one.  Maybe I need to fix that.

At the moment, I'm watching Nakano work on jump serves with Asahi.  A couple days ago, we were here late as I watched her working with Nishinoya on setting.  That leaping set technique is crazy.  I'm amazed she was able to teach anything to Noya, he's always so insanely energetic.  I didn't think he'd have the ability to focus on something so complicated.  But he's really very serious when it comes to being a libero, and he seems to have decided he needs this technique to be an effective one.  Nakano really seemed to be in her element as well.  She may not be the best tutor around, but she's pretty incredible when it comes to teaching volleyball techniques.

Yesterday, we all were here extra late working on the synchronized attack.  It was exhausting in the extreme.  Nakano took over for His Majesty at one point so he could go continue working on this new setting technique of his.  We've actually started using the girls' volleyball gym so we can have all these different things going at once.

And now, here I am, sitting against the wall, watching Nakano teach Asahi jump serve techniques.  Apparently, since the braces came off, Nakano's been working her jump serves at home a lot.  She says they don't quite have the power they used to yet, but I've got to say, I'd rather not be on the receiving end of one of them.  Her serve is at least as powerful as the King's, and if she really can improve it, she might even give her asshole ex-boyfriend a run for his money.  I guess it stands to reason, since they all learned from one another.  I can't help but worry about her.  Sometimes I get exhausted just watching her.  Her passion for volleyball both amazes and upsets me.  I want to feel like that - the way she must feel when her eyes almost seem to be lit from within.  And I want her to feel like that...but about me.  I want to be the focus of her passion.

Oh god, listen to me.  I'm jealous of fucking volleyball.  I am so screwed.  What the hell has this girl done to me?  

Wait a minute...something isn't right.  Asahi is yelling.  I'm on my feet, rushing to Nakano.  She's just collapsed against Asahi.

"Nakano?  Nakano, can you hear me?  Asahi, get some water!"  He rushes off to grab a bottle.  I'm holding her head in my lap as she lies on the floor.  She opens her eyes.

"Woah, sorry Kei.  I just got so dizzy there..."

"Dammit, you've been working way too hard!  You can't keep this up.  It's too much."

"I got this.  Just give me a minute."

"Now who's lying?"  She looks properly chastened.  Wait a minute, I've just realized something.  "When's the last time you had something to eat?"

"Uh...lunch?"  Her voice tells me everything.  I sigh, too grateful that this is likely nothing worse than low blood sugar to be angry.  Asahi comes back with the water bottle.  "Senpai, could you please get an energy bar or something from the vending machine?  She hasn't eaten since lunchtime, nor has she had a break."

"What!?  Nakano, you can't work your body like this and not eat!  I-I'll be right back."  He runs off toward the door.

"Once you've eaten the energy bar, I'm taking you to get some real food.  Then I'm taking you home."  She's giving me a look, and is about to open her mouth.  "Roses, don't even try.  I'm not in the mood.  You're going to do what I say, idiot, and that's final."

She's smiling at me.  Dammit, she could convince me to commit murder with that smile.  "You're right, Kei.  This was pretty stupid of me.  I should know better.  I guess...I've just been feeling so stressed about all this...I wanted to help so badly..."

"How does fainting on the court help?"

She looks really unhappy now.  "I'm sorry."  Her voice is so small.  "I promise you, this will not happen again."

"Damn right it won't.  And I hope you're prepared to be punished."  God, I can't bear to see her sad, even when she's been this stupid.

Asahi returns with an energy bar and some juice.  "Nakano, I'm sorry.  If I had known, I would have insisted you get something to eat before working with me.  Tsukishima, I'll take care of cleaning up here.  Can you take her to get some real food?"

"That was my plan Asahi-san.  Thank you."  I help Nakano sit up, and get her started eating.

"Take good care of her, okay?"

"Yes, senpai."

"Thanks, Asahi. I'm sorry I've been so much trouble."  Nakano looks at the ace.  

He chuckles.  "You're not trouble.  You just don't know when to quit.  Thanks a lot for your help, and do us all a favor and listen to Tsukishima."  He heads off to clean up the gym.  

"Tsukki, I'm feeling a lot better..."

"Finish the food and the juice."

"But I..."

"Your punishment has started, Nakano.  You will do exactly as I say until I get you home safely tonight, is that clear?  You will not argue, complain or negotiate with me.  If you try to, I will extend your punishment by 24 hours each time.  So what's it going to be, hmmm?  I would love to have you at my mercy for several days, so please, feel free to act out."  I give her a leer.  She's looking at me wide-eyed.  I do believe the girl has figured out that I'm quite serious.  

She finishes the food and juice without another word.  

Once she's done, I pick her up in my arms like a bride.  "Woah!" she calls out.

"Is that a complaint?" I ask.

"Nope," she sounds almost panicked.  "No complaints here.  Just surprised, that's all.  I think I'm still allowed to be surprised, right?"

I carry her up to the girls' changing room.  "Do you need my help?  I don't think any of the other girls will be coming in any time soon."

"No, I'm pretty sure I can manage.  I really do feel a lot better.  I got this."

"Very well.  You get 10 minutes.  If you're not back in 10 minutes, I'm coming in to get you."

She's back out in 5 minutes.  I think that might be a record.  

"Now, Roses, I want you to tell me honestly how you feel.  Do you think you can make it to the yakisoba place, or do I need to carry you there?"

Her eyes widen again.  She looks at me a moment, then takes a deep breath.  "My head is clear.  I don't feel dizzy or weak.  I do feel hungry, and I know I need a proper meal.  I think I should be able to walk there just fine."  She looks at me, her cheeks a little pink.  "But I would very much appreciate it if you'd put an arm around me, just in case?"  I give her a look.  "You said to be honest!  I'm not negotiating, I swear!"  

I chuckle, taking her things and putting my arm around her.  She puts hers around my waist, and I can feel the tension drain off of her as we start walking.  "I'm not angry with you, dumbass.  I should be, though.  You of all people should know better.  And I'm holding you to your promise that this won't be happening again."

"It won't, believe me."  She pauses.  "Am I still being punished?"

"Oh hell yes.  Until I get you home tonight.  Now let's go eat."

Nakano ate an impressive meal, including a good deal of protein.  By unspoken agreement, we didn't talk about volleyball or the team the entire time.  It was really quite nice.  I watched over her carefully, and it truly did seem like low blood sugar was the only thing wrong.  Besides the meal, she drank plenty of water.  When we were finished, Nakano gently insisted on paying for dinner.  I let her - after all, this was her fault.  Well, mostly.  I feel like I should have been paying closer attention, knowing what she can get like.  You'd better believe I'll be watching her eating habits from here on out, especially when training gets intense like this.  

We're walking home now, at a slower pace than normal.  I don't want to push her at this point.  We've got our arms around each other again.  It's becoming our favorite way of walking.  I never thought I'd want to show this much affection out in the world like this, but feeling her so close to me as we walk...it's perfect.  About a block or so from her house, I stop us.

"Kei?  What is it?"

"Kiss me."

She smiles, and does as she's told.  A lovely little peck on my cheek.

"Not good enough.  Kiss me again."

She kisses my lips this time, but only briefly.  Her smile is getting a bit more sassy.

"Kiss me like you actually mean it, Roses."

Her arms go around my neck, and she tugs me down, capturing my lips with hers again.  But this time, she lingers.  Her lips taste of the dinner we had.  I slide my tongue along them, and they part.  The spicy-sweet taste of her mouth is like an addiction.  My hand slides into her hair, the other one around her waist, holding her close.  These moments are heaven.  I don't want to stop, but I know we can't stay here kissing all night.  I finally break the kiss and pull her into a hug.

"Go out with me again.  Tuesday after practice.  No staying late."

She giggles.  "I guess I have no choice.  I have to do as you say, since you've not gotten me to my home yet."

"Smart girl, Roses."

I walk her the rest of the way home, giving her a proper goodnight kiss at the door.  I'm already looking forward to Tuesday.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano's been upset the past couple of days.  She's tried to hide it, and frankly, she does a pretty a good job of it.  I get the feeling she's gotten really good at keeping things locked inside over the past couple of years.  I don't like that at all, but I know it's going to take time to unlock those things.  

This one, though, is recent, and probably not quite as bad as the other things she has hidden away.  What's bothering her right now is the King.

They've not really spoken much since we've returned from the camp.  They used to do that bizarre hug thing at least once a day, especially at practice, which we're at all the time now.  I can't remember the last time I saw them do that.  Nakano told me what happened between them, how she basically had to tell His Majesty he was being an ass again.  He still is being an ass.  I mean, I guess no one really likes to be told that, but after all his loud insisting that Nakano is like his sister, he's basically shut her out entirely.  It's kind of pissing me off a little bit.  He was so insistent to me that he would never make the same mistake again...and here he is doing just that.  

She's trying to give him some space, but it's getting to her.  I suggested just letting me shake some sense into the idiot, but Nakano didn't take too kindly to that idea.  We're at practice again, and the King has been off in his own little world.  Coach just called for a break, and Nakano is coming over to me.

"Hey, will you do something for me?"  She's whispering.

"What?"

"Kags is gonna go to the vending machine any second I'll bet.  I want to see if he will talk to me...but I want you to be nearby."

"You want me to come with you?"

"No...just kinda...be out of sight close enough to hear us."

"So...you want me to spy on you?"

"Ugh...I want you to be nearby in case...in case I lose my temper."  Well, that's interesting.  I'm kind of surprised she thinks that might be likely.  She sees my face and sighs.  "Kags is like my brother...and just like my actual sister, he can piss me off like no one else.  I don't want to end up making things worse by yelling at him, but this silent treatment crap is driving me crazy.  Just do it for me, please?"

I chuckle.  I can't help it, even though she gives me a look.  "He's headed outside, Roses.  Don't worry, I'll be there."

Sure enough, the King is headed for the vending machine.  Nakano follows him, and I wander outside.  She shoots a rapid glance to a bench nearby.  I gather that's her destination if she can get him to talk.  I head that way.  There's another bench on the other side of some bushes.  I lay myself out on that and wait.  They shouldn't be able to see me, but I'm pretty sure I'll be able to hear them well enough.

And indeed, I can hear them just fine.  I know they've both walked up and sat down, and I'm pretty sure they are both drinking something.  Now we just have to see if words start being used.

"Look, I..."  "I just want..."  They're talking over each other.  

"Go ahead," Nakano says, "you first."

"I'm...uh...I'm sorry...I've been kinda...you see..."

"You talked to him, didn't you?"

The King's grunt of surprise is delightful.  I can actually picture his wide-eyed stupid face.

"How...how did you know?"

She chuckles.  "Who else would you talk to about something like this?"

"I...I didn't go looking for him or anything!  I happened to run into him at the park, and I...well..."  The King sounds downright sheepish.  What the hell?  Who did he talk to?  "Are you mad?"

"Tobio, why would I be mad that you talked to Oikawa?  For good and bad, he was effectively your mentor for awhile."  Oh shit.  That's why he's so submissive.  He's expecting to be in the doghouse.  How delightful.

"Well, I thought..." The King's voice is almost shaky.

"Plus it had to be easier to hear coming from Oikawa, who you know will treat you like shit, than coming from me, who you expected to simply agree with you."

And there's another surprised noise from the King.  I'm literally biting my cheek to keep from laughing out loud.  He's known her all these years, how does he not yet understand her reactions to things like this?  Wait a minute...is this...is this what it means to be meant for someone?  When it feels like you've known them forever even when you haven't?  

"...he would say the same thing?"  Damn, that was the King.  I missed something there, lost in my own thoughts.

"Because, Tobio, in this case, I know I'm right.  Oikawa may be a useless lump of a human being, but he's one hell of a setter.  Plus, I know he'd revel in the chance to tell you how you've not changed at all.  How you're still being the tyrant he worked so hard to turn you into.  Except he's wrong."

"Is he?"  Wow, that actually sounds like regret in the King's voice.

"Yes, he is.  This isn't about you wanting to be in control, Tobio.  This is about you being afraid you'll be left alone again."  Holy crap.  I wish I could see them, because the King's face has got to be priceless at this point.  She is damn good at that, my Nakano.  She'll slice right through whatever protective bullshit you've put in the way and get straight to the heart of the matter.  Now I just wish I could learn to do that to her.  Wait...I just thought of her as 'my' Nakano.  How is this happening to me so fast?

"...partner.  But you can't let that partnership stagnate, okay?  You both need to grow.  Have you talked with him at all yet?"  Dammit, I did it again.  That's Nakano, and I've missed something.  Well, it doesn't sound like they're going to fight anyway, so I guess it doesn't matter.  If I get up though, they'll see me, and the King will pitch a fit.  So, I guess I'll just wait here until they finish their chat.  By the sound of things, there's a hug happening.  I'm pretty sure they are talking still, but I can't make out what they are saying.  From the soft tones, I'm guessing there's some apologizing going on.  Hopefully the King is apologizing for acting like an ass and not talking to her for so long.  I wonder why he did that.  Was it just because he thought she'd be upset that he talked to Oikawa?

"So, how are things going with the blonde...uh...middle blocker?"  Oh the look she must have given you, Your Majesty.  I'm pretty sure you weren't about to call me by my volleyball position originally.

She chuckles.  She says nothing for a moment.  Oh shit, do I...  "Tobio, do you remember what I was like after the accident?"  Her voice is thick with emotion.  What is happening?

"Yeah." He sounds sad. "You were...so different.  So sad and walled off.  I didn't know what to do.  It was like...you'd encased yourself in layers of protection that no one could get through.  I thought I'd never see you smile again."  Wow.  I can't imagine Nakano that way.  

"A good description.  Well, that's all still in here.  Buried under so many layers.  I've learned to live with it.  I thought I would always have to.  That there would be no way I could ever share any of it with anyone else, because...well...it hurts so bad.  But now...Kei is starting to peel those layers away.  I've told him things I've never been able to say to anyone, Tobio...not even you.  I mean, he's only scratched the surface, but...I think there might be a chance for me now.  I don't know how, or why, but he makes it possible for me to let these things out.  I've begun to think that maybe...maybe I can be like I was before the accident again...someday."

My heart is pounding.  She knows I'm here.  She knows I'm listening.  She has to know, she asked me to.  Did she want me to hear this?  Can I really mean so much to her already?  We've only known each other a few months.  How is this possible?

"This...this is good, right?  It makes you happy?  These are happy tears, right?  Or is it hurting you?  Do I need to..."

She laughs.  It's almost musical.  "Yes, these are happy tears, Tobio-chan.  I'm happy.  It won't be easy, I'm quite sure of that.  But this is the happiest I've been in a long, long time."

That's another hug, I'm quite sure of it.  "Good.  I'm really glad, Naka-chan.  You ready to head back inside?"

"You go on ahead, okay?  I'll be in soon."  

I hear the King make his way back towards the gym.

"You can stand up now, he's gone back inside."

I make my way over and sit next to her.  She still has tears on her cheeks.  I brush them away with my thumbs, cupping her face in my hands.

"Did you really mean..."  I start.

"I won't lie to you either, Kei.  You heard what I said.  I meant it.  I also said it won't be easy, and believe me when I tell you that's no lie either.  I wanted you to know that you've given me real hope for the first time in a long time.  Real hope that someday, I won't feel broken anymore."

My heart feels like it will burst.  I wrap my arms around her tightly, hugging her for all I'm worth.  I want to do that.  I want to peel away all the layers.  I want to know everything about her - all the good, all the bad, all the parts and pieces that make her what she is.  I want to say these words to her, but my mouth won't open.  I hope she can feel them in the way I'm holding her.  That's all I can do for now. 

I let her go, and she's looking at me in surprise.  She's smiling too.  I take her face in my hands again, and kiss her just as desperately as I hugged her a moment ago.  How is it me?  How on Earth did she choose me?  How can I possibly be worthy of this much trust from someone?  From someone like her?

"HEY!  LOVEBIRDS!  LET'S GO!"  Coach Ukai calls out from the gym doors.  

I guess break is over.  Surprisingly, we don't talk.  We just walk back to the gym, hand in hand.

🏐🏐🏐

It's finally Tuesday.  I feel like it's taken a whole month for it to get here.  It's only been a few days, of course, but they've been exhausting days.  I checked with Nakano last night by text and she assured me that she will not allow herself to be dragged into staying late at practice, no matter what.  We've agreed to head out from Karasuno again, just like last time.  Well, hopefully not just like last time.  If anyone throws condoms at me, I'm going to kill them.

Practice officially runs until 2pm today.  At precisely that time, Coach wraps up his talk with us, and dismisses the team.  We begin breaking up, everyone talking about what they'd like to do for individual practice.  Nakano and I start gathering our things.

"Nakano!  Tsukishima!" Sugawara calls out to us.  "Want to work on the synchronized attack?"

"Sorry, Suga-senpai, but we're not staying today."  I grab Nakano's hand and start leading her towards the door.

"Ooooh, are you guys headed out on a date?" Tanaka sing-songs at us.

Nakano flashes him a smile.  "As a matter of fact, we are, Tanaka-senpai.  We've been working really hard, and it's time to take a little mental health break."

"Don't forget to use protection!" Nishinoya yells at us as we head out the door.  Nakano stops and sticks her head back in the gym.

"Of course, Noya-senpai!  We always wear our helmets.  Safety first!"  She gives them a wave and we duck to the side of the doors, both holding our mouths to stifle the laughter.

"Did she say helmets?"

"I think she did."

"What do they do on these dates?"

We can hear Nishinoya cracking up.  

"You know, I think those two might have the right idea.  Maybe we should all take a little break today..." Sugawara begins.  That's our cue, we run for the changing rooms before everyone else ends up in there.

Twenty minutes later we are away from Karasuno, and headed towards the movie theater in town.  We walk together in our favorite way - my arm around her shoulders, her arm around my waist.  As we start to encounter more people, Nakano looks at me curiously.  I squeeze her shoulders.  She smiles and squeezes my waist.  We've not said much as we walk, but it feels comfortable.  We can communicate with each other just fine without using words.  

I let her choose the movie, and steel myself to have to sit through some kind of romantic comedy thing.  To my surprise, she immediately requests two tickets to an action adventure film.  I should have known she'd be unlikely to go for the girly-girl option.  We get snacks and sodas and settle in for some simple escapism.  

Two hours later we head back out onto the street, discussing the movie and laughing.  She complains that the plot was a little thin, I argue back that escapism doesn't really require a plot.  She says the special effects were amazing, I complain that the filmmakers really did rely on them too much.  She says the lead actor was hot, I make a comment about the sexiness of the leading lady.  We laugh, knowing that neither one of us really cares about the quality of the film.  It just feels good to be out together, enjoying ourselves.

"So where are we headed now?"  she asks me.

"Hmmm, good question.  We've got a bit less than two hours before our dinner reservation..."

"Reservation?" She looks at me, concerned.  "I'm in jeans and a t-shirt!  I'm not dressed to go someplace that takes reservations!"

"You'll notice I'm in jeans and a t-shirt too, so I wouldn't worry."

"Fair point.  Okay, so...what should we do until this dinner reservation?"

I spot an arcade up ahead...and we are only a couple of blocks from our dinner location.  "Wanna hit the arcade?"

Her eyes light up.  "Let's do it!"

The arcade is the ultimate time waster.  We play more games than I can count.  She's really good at skee-ball, but not so good at first-person shooters.  We both love old style arcade games like Pac-Man and Centipede.  She dragged me into playing Dance Dance Revolution with her.  I dragged her into a recording booth and made her sing 'Hotel California' with me, which made her blush as she realized I did hear her singing under my window.  Before we knew it, we needed to leave, or we would miss our reservation.  While she used the ladies' room, I traded in our tickets from the games for a little panda hair clip.  

When she returns, I show it to her, and place it in her hair.

"Kei!  It's adorable!  Thank you!"  She almost squeaks.  Pandas appear to be her one girly-girl weakness.  It should irritate me, but I find it sweet.  If you'd told me six months ago that I'd be putting a cute little panda clip in a girl's hair while out on a date with her...I'd have told you I'd sooner die than do something so ridiculous.  And yet, here I am.

We head towards our dinner location.  As we enter what appears to be an office building, Nakano looks at me suspiciously.

"Are you taking me to a maid café?" she asks as we enter the elevator.

"You'll see."

As soon as we arrive and our reservation is confirmed, we are whisked apart by the staff.  It's time for the fun to begin.  This cosplay café treats their diners as lord and lady of a traditional Japanese manor, including dressing them up.

Soon we are each brought separately to our table.  I'm now wearing a dark blue yukata with light blue pin striping.  Nakano looks incredible.  She is in a black and white yukata, covered in cherry blossoms.  I can see the necklace I got her at the museum.  She wears it almost all the time, but it's often hidden under her shirt.  Now the necklace lies along the neckline of the yukata, and I love it.  They've even done her hair, sweeping it up and to the side, holding it in place with elaborate combs and pins.  But the little panda clip is still in her hair and I chuckle.  She smiles at me, a blush across her beautiful face.  Once the servants have seated us, they show me a menu.  I nod, approving the meal that I'd already chosen when I made the reservation, and the table service begins. I am 'master' and she is 'mistress'.  It's all kind of funny, especially since everyone who works there is older than we are, but it's also rather enjoyable.  I take her hand, kissing it.

"Kei!  This is so amazing!  You look incredible!"

"And you are absolutely stunning, m'lady."  She laughs.

"What gave you the idea to come to a place like this?"

"I wanted to do something special for our second date.  You are the Queen of the Court, right?  You should be treated like a queen, then."

The entire experience is perfect.  The food, the service, the conversation, everything.  We talk and laugh and hold hands and enjoy ourselves completely.  Musicians play from time to time to entertain us.  The staff encourages us to get into the roles, but we end up laughing through the whole thing.  I don't think the staff minds, as they all smile at us whenever we lose our composure.  

At last, we finish dinner, and the time comes to go back to the real world.

"Kei, do I even want to know what that cost you?  You shouldn't have spent so much money today!  If I had known that you'd made such expensive dinner plans, I would have insisted..."

"You would have insisted on paying for things.  Well, next time, you ask me on a date and plan it then.  I asked you, and I planned this.  Now stop complaining."

She gives me a look.  "Very well.  I accept that challenge."  Her smile is...both intriguing and terrifying.  I get the feeling our third date is going to be very interesting.

The walk back to her house is long but pleasant.  The sunset colors are beautiful and we watch them as we walk along, sometimes stopping to stare at a particularly lovely view.  At such times, I frequently end up looking at her.  I'm still struck at times by the idea that this is all real.  That I'm not dreaming, or making it up.  That I'm dating this beautiful girl at my side.  That she chose me, for some crazy reason I can't figure out.

Arriving at her place, she gestures towards the garden, and quietly slips in the house.  I go to the yard, knowing that in a moment she'll return with a couple of strawberry sodas.  Sure enough, she's soon at my side again.

"This was a fantastic idea.  We needed a break from training," she says, smiling up at the Moon.

I sigh.  "Yeah, tomorrow, it's back to it, I guess."

"Don't sound so sad!  We'll be together.  And I'm looking forward to seeing how these new things we're working on play out against the teams in Tokyo."

"How do you have so much enthusiasm for all this?  I'd like to spend my summer break doing something other than a ton of hard work."

"But this is time to do it.  We need to have all of our weapons as sharp as possible to get to Nationals.  You know that."

I scoff.  "I'm getting so tired of hearing about Nationals.  Do you really think we can beat Aoba Johsai?  They're not standing still either, you know.  They're working too, becoming better than they were when they beat us last time.  And even if we can beat them, that just leads to Shiratorizawa.  What do we do about them?"  Ugh, why are we talking about this?  It's been such a perfect evening, and this is starting to piss me off.

"We have to defeat them too.  That's the path to Nationals."

"And we're just suddenly supposed to be able do that, are we?  You've seen Ushiwaka play.  Do you honestly think I can block his spikes?"  My voice is strained.  I'm getting angry.  Dammit, shut up.  We both need to shut up about this already.

"Yes, I do.  I know you can.  I've seen it in your eyes, in moments when you stop feeling like you're not good enough and just let your passion for the game come through."  I freeze.  What did she just say?  How the hell does she see into my soul like this?  She's still talking, but the words are rolling over me and I can't bring myself to respond.  I don't think she's noticed, her gaze looks far away.  "You won't block them all, no one could, but there are other ways.  You're clever, Kei.  You're the brain of our team.  You can narrow his options, force him to take shots that place the ball where we want it, and not where he wants it.  You can deceive the other players.  I've seen you do it.  When we played against Tobio and Shoyo, I watched you.  They should have wiped the court with us, but you and I worked together to use strategy to defeat them.  And when they started to strategize against us...we adapted.  That's our strength.  We can adapt on the fly.  I believe in you, Kei.  I know you can do it, if you just let yourself."  

She finally refocuses and looks at me. "Kei, what happened?  Why don't you think you're good enough?" 

She catches my eyes.  I can only imagine what she sees there, as suddenly her eyes go wide and she looks upset.  My hands are clenched.  Why did she have to do this?  Everything was fine, why did she have to start this damn conversation?  I can't do this right now.  I'm done.

"Kei, I'm sor..."

I stand, putting the soda on the bench.  "I need to go home, it's late."  My voice is flat.  I feel the walls close around me again.  I bend over and kiss the top of her head.  "Goodnight, Nakano," I whisper.  I need to get out of here.  

"Goodnight, Kei."  Her voice is small and broken.  I walk away.  I turn back only briefly at the gate.  She is still looking at me.  I can see the moonlight shining off the tears on her cheeks.  

I walk home, feeling angry and empty all at the same time.  Why did she have to go there?  Our perfect day, ruined, because she has to be a volleyball idiot.

A small voice in my head asks why I think this is her fault, when everything she said was true.

I get into my room and collapse in my bed.  She's just as stupid as the rest of them.  She's just setting herself up to be hurt.  Who does that?  Why would I want to do that?

Because she believes in you, answers that little voice.  Or at least, she did.

I fall asleep with those words ringing in my head.

🏐🏐🏐

I see her, walking towards Karasuno.  She had already left when I'd gotten to her house.  I'm running, trying to catch up to her.

I call her name.

She doesn't stop.  She doesn't even turn back.

I call her again, louder, almost shouting.  I run, overtaking her, stopping her.  Making her look at me.

Her eyes are dead.  They are flat, emotionless.  I feel a terrifying chill run down my spine.  I've never seen her beautiful blue eyes look so dead, not even after we lost to Aoba Johsai.  I want to speak to her, but no words come out.

"Kei, this is pointless.  I thought you were the one, but I guess you're not.  I had hope, but it's gone now.  So you can stop.  Why go through all this if we're just going to be hurt in the end?"  Her voice is as dead as her eyes.  There's no emotion.  No sign of the affection we share for one another.

I find my voice at last.  "No!  That's not what I meant!  You said there was a chance!  That I could..."

"That was when I believed in you.  But why should I believe in you if you don't believe in yourself?"

She walks past me.  I cry out, a strangled noise of pain.  I reach for her, but it's like she's already a thousand miles away.  

I sit bolt upright in bed, reaching my hand out.  Sweating, shaking, the nightmare leaving me a mess inside.  

My god, what have I done?

My face is wet with tears.  I dash them away and look at the clock.  2AM.

My body moves without my brain really being involved.  All I know is I can't leave things as they are.  And I know I won't be able to sleep again until I talk to her.  I text several times, but she doesn't answer.  Not surprising.

Why did I do that?  Why did I shut down and walk away?  I'm such an idiot.  Did I think she would share her innermost self with me but not expect me to do the same in return?  That's not how a relationship works, moron.  Relationships have to work both ways.  

Dammit, I am such a jackass.  I've got to fix this, before I lose my shot at actually being happy with my life.  Everything that has made me happy in the last few months has involved her.  I might have just thrown it all away because of my own stupid fears.  I can't let that happen.

I'm halfway to her house before I even realize what is going on.  I start jogging, trying to get there as soon as I can.  Her window is shut, of course.  I'm going to have to be careful, or I'm likely to be arrested as a pervert.

Small price to pay for fixing this damn mess I've made.  I just pray she'll talk to me.

I can see her in her bed through the part in the curtains.  Her strawberry blonde hair scattered across the pillow, her face buried.  I feel the tears forming in my eyes again.  I tap on the window, gently, but insistently.  

Damn, I know from the bus ride home from Tokyo just how heavy a sleeper she can be.

I keep tapping, changing rhythms, trying to tap louder without tapping too loud.  She's moving! She sits up, looking towards the window.  Thank the gods!  

She opens the window, hair a mess from sleep, eyes squinty, clothes twisted.  She's the most beautiful thing I've ever seen.  I hop up on the windowsill and clamber into her room.

"Kei?" Her voice is music, even rough from sleep.  "What's wron..."

I grasp her into a hug so tight I hear the breath leave her.  I breathe in deep, her fragrance calming me, helping me settle down.  She holds me tight.  I feel like I can breathe normally again.  She's not pushing me away.

"Roses," I breathe out, "I'm sorry.  I'm so so sorry.  Please, please forgive me."

Oh god, she is pushing me...no, no she just wants to see my face.  "Kei, have you been crying?  Please, tell me what's wrong!  Are you okay?"  Her voice is an urgent whisper, and she looks scared.

I hug her tight again.  I can't let her go.  "I'm sorry I walked away from you.  I was so stupid."

"Hey, come on, look at me."  I move back a little, still holding her in my arms.  "I'm the one who should be sorry for that, Kei."  I'm sorry, what?  I can't even process that statement.  How in the hell is my being an asshole her fault?  "I should have paid better attention to you.  Seen how you were feeling about what I was saying.  Instead, I just let myself ramble on, not even considering how my words might affect you.  So I hope you can forgive me.  I promise I'll pay more attention from now on."

I want to laugh out loud, but I am very aware I'm standing in her bedroom in the middle of the night having climbed in the window.  I stifle myself by laughing as softly as I can into her hair.  "Roses, stop apologizing for things that are not your fault.  I was the one who shut down.  I was the one who went away.  I am the one who needs to apologize.  You've been open with me about so much, and the first time you try to get me to be open with you, I..."

"That's the whole point, Kei.  I tried to get you to talk to me about things when you weren't ready.  And that was wrong.  And that's why I need to apologize too.  If I push you too hard, too fast, please tell me.  Please stop me.  But always know that I'll be here when you're ready."

All the tension I've been carrying suddenly fades.  I feel exhausted, like I might just drop.  She guides me to the windowsill and we sit down, feeling the cool night air.  

"Kei, what happened?  I mean, I get that you felt badly about just walking away from me tonight, but surely there has to have been more than that to bring you to my window at 2:30AM?"

I hold both her hands.  Her touch grounds me at the moment.  "I...I had a nightmare.  You broke up with me.  You told me there was no point in believing in me anymore, since I couldn't believe in myself."

She chuckles, taking one hand and lifting my face to look at her.  "Oh my goodness, drama much?"  Her eyes are warm and full of affection, and more than a little mischief.  "Kei, I need to teach your subconscious what I'm really like, because clearly it doesn't know."  Her eyes and face become more serious, but no less loving.  "I believe in you Kei.  I will always believe in you.  And I will believe in you for you, until you can believe in yourself.  You'd have to do something a lot more awful than walk away from a conversation for me to turn my back on you.  Please know that.  You're my boyfriend, yes, but you were my friend and teammate first.  I don't take any of those things lightly.  You mean the world to me."

I hold her again.  Tears in my eyes that I try hard not to let fall.  "Dammit, how do you do this to me?  You make me so...so soft...so weak..."

She chuckles again.  "You think you're weak?  On the contrary, it takes great strength and courage to be willing to share who you really are with someone.  Believe me, I know.  And we've got a long way to go together."

I sigh.  "I...I want...t-to share with you...why I feel...like..."  

"Shhh."  She runs her fingers through my hair.  It's so soothing.  "I know.  But I don't think you're really ready.  Especially not at coming up on three in the morning when you've been awoken by a nightmare and run to my house to wake me up to comfort you."  I can't help but chuckle.  She's right, as always.  "When you're really ready, you'll know."

I look at her face.  She's smiling, and I can't help but smile back.  "I'm sorry I ruined our perfect evening."

She scoffs.  "First of all, I already told you, I am least as responsible for it as you, probably more so.  But beyond that, forget about perfect.  Nothing's perfect.  This is real.  I want us to always be real, whatever happens between us."

"What do you mean?"

"I've seen so-called perfect couples.  Hell, Oikawa said he and I were the 'perfect' couple.  Perfect is overrated.  Every perfect couple I ever saw were perfect because what they had barely went skin deep.  As soon as anything happened that required them to really invest in the relationship, they didn't.  They walked away, parting as 'friends' because they were so 'perfect' they didn't even fight when they broke up.  Because it had never meant anything to them in the first place.  Stupid.  Real life is messy.  Real life hurts.  The real test of a relationship is how you fight, how you deal with pain, how you get through the crappy things that come and still manage to find joy in each other.  I want a relationship that's real, Kei.  Not one that's perfect."

I kind of let that soak in a little.  She makes a lot of sense.  Real life is never perfect.  I want this to be real too.  But this conversation is getting pretty heavy for 3AM.  I smirk at her.  "So...was this our first fight?"

"Do you want it to be?" Her look back to me is equally sassy.  "I get the feeling you do...so that we can make up."  She leans forward.  I cup her face in my hand and kiss her.  It's absolutely...real.  For the first time since I woke up, I feel normal.  Like everything is okay.

I break the kiss, resting my forehead against hers.  "Roses..." I whisper.  I don't know what else to say.  I want to stay.  I want to carry her to the bed and climb in with her and snuggle up warm and cozy and never leave her side.

"I know," she says.  "I wish you could stay too." Dammit, how the hell does she do that?  She giggles.  "Could you imagine my mother's face in the morning?"

"Could you imagine how fast I'd be thrown out and told to keep the hell away from you?  She'd probably chuck me right out this window."

We both chuckle.  It's time for me to go.

"Will you be able to get back to sleep?" I ask.

"I'll manage.  You?"  

"Yeah, I'm fine now.  Good thing you live so close by."  I put both my legs out the window, ready to leave.  I kiss her forehead.  "Goodnight, Roses."

"Be careful going home, okay?  And text me when you get back in bed."  I hop down.  "Goodnight, Kei.  I'll see you tomorrow."

I head out, looking back every so often.  Every time I look, she's still in the window, watching me, until I can no longer see her clearly.  I text her as soon as I get into bed, as promised.  Her reply is immediate, glad that I'm home safe.  

My own fear had gotten the best of me.  The reality was that all of that crap was in my own head.  She said I gave her hope that she could one day feel like she's no longer broken.  Well, I think I've got the same hope now.  

Maybe we can heal each other.

🏐🏐🏐

It's been another busy couple of days, full of practice and precious little time for just the two of us.  I probably shouldn't complain about that, as I've been taking a lot of teasing from her about being 'overly dramatic'.  Okay, I'll admit, showing up at your girlfriend's window in the middle of the night is pretty dramatic.  However, I think I'm finally going to get some revenge.  

Roses
ARGH!!!  My mother wants to know if you can come to dinner tomorrow night.  Amalie is coming home, and she insists she wants to have you to dinner before we go to Tokyo again.  She wants to 'have a talk' with us.  I AM GOING TO DIE!!

Kei
Now who's being overly dramatic?

Roses
If she starts actually having a sex talk with us, I will simply dissolve on the spot.

Kei
I am going to change your name in my contacts to Drama Queen.

Roses
No you won't.  You love calling me Roses too much.

Kei
Guilty as charged.

Roses
So...does tomorrow night work?

Kei
Should be fine.  What time?

Roses
Dinner will be at six.  So you might want to come a little before that.

Kei
I'll be there at half past five then.

And that is how I find myself, dressed like a proper, well-mannered boyfriend, standing in front of Nakano's door.  I bought a bouquet of lavender roses to bring to her mother.  They remind me of Nakano.  Pretty cheesy, I guess, but I am trying to impress her mom.  And I also want to see how Nakano reacts to them.  I get the feeling this might well be an interesting evening.

I ring the bell, and Nakano opens the door.  She sees the roses and giggles softly.  "Pardon the intrusion," I say as I enter and change into house slippers.  Her mother and sister are standing nearby, just waiting.  Nakano looks beautiful.  I've rarely seen her in a skirt apart from her school uniform.  She's wearing a white collared shirt with a V-neck vest on top, with the necklace I gave her visible on the white shirt.  I smile, knowing she planned that deliberately.  "They want me to formally introduce you," she whispers.  I give her a scant nod.  This seems strange, but okay, whatever.

She leads me over to her mother.  "Mother, this is Tsukishima Kei, my boyfriend.  Kei, this is Ogawa Emiko, my mother."  I bow and greet her formally, then offer the flowers.  She greets me formally as well, with a small distant smile.  I think I might be in some trouble here.  She isn't acting like the same kind woman who welcomed her daughter's friends for a tutoring session.  I guess being the official boyfriend makes a difference.

Nakano leads me over to her sister.  "Tsukishima Kei, my sister, Ogawa Amalie.  Ama-nee, my boyfriend, Tsukishima Kei."  I bow to her sister.  They look very different.  I've not seen a picture of her father, but I'm guessing Nakano takes after him.  Her mother and sister do look similar to each other, and both have the same wavy brown hair.  Nakano has her mother's blue eyes, though.  Amalie frowns at me, looking very severe.  Okay, this is not good.  How do I fix this?

Nakano's mother and sister turn to one another and almost seem to be communicating telepathically.  I look at Nakano.  She looks...kind of a mix of irritated and scared.  There's a sick feeling in the pit of my stomach.  Am I going to be thrown out before dinner?  Suddenly, the two older women turn towards me, their eyes piercing.  I've got no clue what to do here, but I've got to do something to salvage this.

I bow a full 90 degrees.  "Th-Thank you for having me to dinner.  I...I promise to take excellent care of your daughter.  She means a great deal to me.  Please allow me to continue to see her."  I don't know what else to do.  I hope this helps.

The two ladies burst into laughter.

I sort of half stand up and look at Nakano.  She now looks murderous.

Amalie holds her phone out towards me and says, "So how was that for you, Dad?"

"DAD!??!" Nakano shouts, grabbing at the phone.  The two sisters start jumping around, Nakano trying to grab the phone away from her slightly taller older sister.

I can hear laughter coming from the phone now too.  "Woah, hey, you're gonna make me sick over here.  Give the phone to the boy, would you, Ama?"

Nakano stops fighting for the phone, but I can see she's desperate.  I take the phone gingerly from her sister, standing up properly.  "Hajimemashite, Ogawa-san," I say.  Yep, Nakano is the spitting image of her father.  His eyes are green, but they hold the same light as his daughter's.  

"So, you are the remarkable Kei-chan my wife has told me about," he says.  His voice holds a great deal of humor.  "I've got only a few minutes, but I wanted to meet you tonight too.  I'm Ogawa Tanjiro, Nakano's father.  I won't be able to meet you properly for another couple of months, young man, but your little speech just now has earned you my permission to continue seeing my Naka-chan until then.  Well, that, and Emiko's flattering description of you."

"Thank you, sir.  I'm looking forward to meeting you in person.  Nakano has told me a lot about you."

Nakano's mom comes around so she's in frame with me.  "Look at the beautiful roses he brought me, dear," she says, holding them up to the camera.

He laughs.  "Well done, young man.  You can't go wrong with roses."

"Yes, sir," I say, smiling at Nakano.  She rolls her eyes at me.

"Alright, I'm nearly out of time.  Give the phone to Naka-chan, would you, please?  And keep your word and watch over her while I'm gone, okay?"

"I will, sir.  That's a promise.  It was a pleasure speaking to you, sir.  Stay safe."

"Thanks, young man."  I hand Nakano the phone.  I can see tears in her eyes as she takes it.

"Dad," she says, "I miss you!"

"Miss you too, Naka-chan.  I hope you're not mad at me."  He sounds almost contrite, but a little more amused than actually sorry.

"Dad!  Was this all your idea?  I swear, Mom and Ama scared us half to death!"

He laughs again.  "Yup.  You didn't seriously think I'd miss this chance, did you?  I had to see what would happen.  Now, show me your legs."  Nakano laughs and pans the phone down herself.  "Look at you!  No wonder that young man of yours fell for you.  And how is volleyball going?"

"Great, Dad.  Kei plays on the Karasuno boys' team and..."

"..and you're their manager, I know.  Working hard, I assume?  Doing right by those boys?"

"Yes, sir.  I take good care of them.  And you don't have to worry about me...between Kei and the other 11 boys on the team, I am very well protected at all times."  They laugh together.  "Not that I need all that much protection," she says in a sassy tone.

"There's my Little Warrior." The affection between the two is so clear.  "Ugh, that's it, my time is about up.  Love you, my Naka-chan!  Love you all, my beautiful ladies!"  All three of them sing out goodbyes until the phone disconnects.  Nakano's mother plants a kiss on my cheek.

"Oh, Kei-chan, I'm sorry, but we simply couldn't resist that, especially not when Tanjiro was able to get a line arranged.  Well, now that you've met the real Ogawa-san of the family, why don't you call me Emiko-san.  Come on, you three, let's go get ready for dinner."  She heads towards the kitchen.  Amalie turns to me.  "Might as well call me Amalie.  Do you mind if I call you Kei?"

"Not at all, please do," I say as I take Nakano's hand and we walk towards the dinner table.  

Dinner is quite nice.  Nakano's mom is a very good cook.  There are the usual questions that I kind of expected to be asked - are my grades good, what are my future plans, all the usual is-this-boy-good-enough-for-my-daughter sort of things.  But they are all now a little tongue-in-cheek, more to try to ruffle my feathers than anything else.  I keep my answers to Emiko-san very polite, but as things go on Nakano and I get a little sassy with one another, and her sister seems to appreciate that.  

In fact, it's Amalie, not Emiko-san, that causes my girlfriend to almost dissolve on the spot, as she put it.  At one point, Emiko-san tries to delicately indicate that she hopes we will choose not to engage in a physical relationship at our age.  And that's when Amalie lets all this drop.

"Oh Mom, please - they're high schoolers!  High schoolers are just walking piles of hormones!  Of course, they're going to get physical with one another.  That's what you do when you're in high school and you've got a significant other!  But it's not like you need to worry about it Mom, Nakano's been on the pill since she was 12.  So there's no danger of her becoming a teenage mom or something."

I was already blushing a bit just from the topic, as was Nakano.  At this statement, Nakano groaned and buried her face in her hands, the tips of her ears bright red.  Emiko-san was also a little taken aback, and rubbed her forehead with her hand.

"Amalie!"  she cried, sounding a bit exasperated.

"What?" Nakano's sister asked.  "Really, you should have been more worried about me at this age than you should be about Nakano."

Her mother glares at her, and Amalie finally realized she'd said too much and blushed.

"Please forgive my older daughter, Kei-chan," Emiko-san said, "She has a little trouble figuring out where personal boundaries are."

Nakano looked up, having taken several deep breaths.  "Mom, could we please just have dessert now?"

And that is how I find myself currently enjoying Nakano's delicious strawberry shortcake again...while admittedly wondering exactly how I should feel about the knowledge that my girlfriend is on the pill.

We finish our desserts over a little more conversation that strictly avoids anything to do with my relationship with Nakano.  After that, I stand up to help clear things away and clean up from dinner, but Amalie stops me before I can pick up anything.

"Please, Kei, you and Nakano go spend some time together.  I'll help Mom with all of this."

I smile at her, then look at Emiko-san.  "Are you sure?  I'd be glad to help clean up."

Nakano's mom gives me a knowing smile.  "Go on.  I think we've tormented my daughter enough for one day."  Nakano's face is caught somewhere between desperation and frustration.  It's actually pretty amusing.  

"Thanks, Mom, Ama.  Come on, Kei."  She takes my hand, grabbing two strawberry sodas before we head to her room and shut the door.

"Oh my gosh that was insane!" Nakano laughs and flops on to her bed, holding the sodas up to me.  I put them on the table and settle on the bed next to her.

"It certainly wasn't what I was expecting.  Meeting your dad was pretty cool, though."

"He's something else, that's for sure.  I never expected he'd go through all the trouble of getting a line home just for this."  She smiles at me.  "You must be very special."

"Thank you," I say, kissing her cheek.  "Your sister..."

"...has turned the concept of oversharing into an art form," she groans.

"Roses..."

"You want to know if what she said is true?  And why, right?"

"Well...I mean, I am curious.  Surely, you and Oikawa..."

"Oh good gosh no.  We barely even kissed.  Little pecks on cheeks and noses, that sort of thing.  He kissed my lips once...maybe twice."

"Hmmm.  No tongue?"

"Uh, no.  And frankly, ewww.  Even then, I probably would have said ewww."  She chuckles.

I smirk at her.  "Good."  She arches an eyebrow at me.  "I like the fact that I'm the only one who has ever tasted you."  I kiss her lips, they part at once, inviting me in.  She lets me explore her mouth a bit, tasting her spicy sweetness, and just a little strawberry.

"So what do I taste like?"

"Spicy and sweet.  Delicious."  I kiss her again, softly.  "So...do you mind telling me..."

"Oh, right.  Well, I had my accident when I was twelve.  And then, a few months later, I started my period.  A few months after that, the decision was made to start the surgeries to repair my legs.  I was undergoing a lot of medical treatment, and taking lots of medications.  The doctors decided to put me on the pill to regulate when I would have my periods and control my hormones so I didn't have to worry about that while dealing with the surgeries.  And I've just never stopped."

"Makes sense."

"I've heard girls talking about how awful their periods are.  I'm kind of grateful I've really never had to deal with that.  Mine are very regular and predictable, and fairly easy to manage  - that was the whole point."  She looks thoughtful.  "I guess I've not really thought about it before.  I'll have to stop taking them someday, if I want to have kids.  But obviously, not now."  She looks at me intently.  "Does it bother you, knowing I'm taking them?"

"What?  No, of course not.  I was just curious why you started them so young, you know?"

"Mmmm."  The look on her face becomes almost shy.  "Does it excite you?" she asks softly.  Woah, not the question I was expecting.

Well, I'm feeling a little excited now, thanks to that.  She's lying on her back in bed, her head on her pillows, looking up at me, while I'm lying on my side next to her propped up on my elbow, playing with her hair.  Talking about the fact that she's on the pill.  And she asks me if I'm excited. "Idiot.  I'd be lying if I said it didn't, at least a little."  I kiss her again, her hand cupping my face.

"Kei, you're 15, right?"

I look at her intently.  "Roses, I didn't ask you about this because I want to get into your pants."  She snorts and laughs, and I chuckle at her reaction.  "Do I want a physical relationship with you?  Yes, of course I do.  But there's a lot of ground to cover between making out and making love, Nakano.  And we've got all the time in the world to explore it."

She smiles sweetly at me, and I can see just a little bit of relief in her eyes.  I can understand that...having your older sister announce to your boyfriend in front of your mother that it's okay if he has sex with you had to have been pretty nerve wracking.  Her smile shifts just a little, becoming coy.

"So...wanna make out?"  she asks.

I laugh and lean in towards her.  "Good plan, Roses."

"Oooh, wait!"  She jumps up off the bed.  Ouch.

"Geez, way to tease me, Nakano," I say with a bit of a pout.  She shoots me a look and I laugh.  "What are you doing?"  She's messing with her phone.  After a few moments, music starts playing through a couple of speakers.  She chuckles as she gets back on the bed with me.  "What?" I ask.  Her face is almost gleeful.

"When Ama was at Karasuno, she always used to tell me not to come in her room if I could hear music playing through the door.  Well, every time she had a boy over to the house, the music would be on."

I chuckle.  "And did you figure out why the music was on?"

"Well, duh.  You've already heard how she overshares.  Let's just say she's not exactly quiet in general."  

I can't help it, I bust out laughing.  Nakano joins me.  After we settle a bit, I ask, "I wonder if you can be more discreet?"

"Try me," she whispers, just before our lips connect again.

Things progress as they did that day in the storage room, only this time it's slower, more deliberate.  I'm aware of everything - every touch, every kiss, every sensation.  I don't want to lose control again like I did then.  I pull away to remove my glasses, she takes off the vest she's wearing.  It's comfortable on her bed, and the music sets the mood perfectly.  Everything feels so good.  I fumble with the buttons on her shirt, kissing down her neck.  I open one, then another, finally a third before her hand moves up and stops me.  I smirk, kissing the top of her chest where that third button sits and then moving back up.  Before long, she's undoing the top three buttons on my shirt, copying my movements.  When she kisses my chest at that third button, she runs her tongue all the way up and starts sucking on my Adam's apple.

I gasp aloud at the feeling of her tongue, and groan as she latches on to my neck.

"Now who can't be discreet," she mumbles around me, still giving all her attention to the lump on my neck.  Oh god, it feels so damn good.  She's gonna drive me insane.

"Hnng...Nakano...hah...you...you'd better stop," I put my hand in her hair, gently pulling her away from my neck.  "Seriously...or I'm gonna need to use your bathroom."

She smirks at me.  "I guess you like that, hunh?"

"You have no idea."

"Oh, I think I have a pretty good idea, actually," she says, glancing down at the bulge in my pants.  I can't help but blush a bit.  She chuckles and sits herself up, using her pillows as a backrest, inviting me to lay my head on her chest.  I do, and she gently runs her fingers through my hair.  We just lay together, her playing with my hair, me tracing my fingers on her stomach and legs, listening to the music.  The song changes...a gentle guitar plays, soon joined by a recorder, I think.  It's beautiful.

"What song is this?" I ask.  

She looks down at me, incredulous.  "You seriously don't know this song?"  I shake my head no.  "How are you a guitar player and you don't know 'Stairway to Heaven'?  It's Led Zeppelin, for crying out loud."  I look at her blankly.  "Just listen," she says.

We listen to the entire song, it's incredible.  

"So, you said this is Led Zeppelin?"

"Yes, Kei.  Led Zeppelin.  Start listening to them - everything you can find.  How is it you know Eric Clapton but not Jimmy Page?"

"Don't blame me.  I just stumble across things and then try to learn to play them.  Guess I've never come across this band before."

"So you've never taken lessons?"

"Nope.  It's just something I've messed around with for a long time.  Everything I've learned I've picked up from internet tutorials."

"That's pretty impressive, given how well you play.  Have you ever played for an audience?"

"Never.  You are the only audience I've ever played for."

"Not even your family?"

"No.  It's not really something I've ever wanted to share with them."

She kisses the top of my head.  "Well, I hope someday I can convince you to share your talent with other people.  You're not only a good guitarist, your voice is wonderful."

"Yours is pretty nice too, you know.  Do you sing for your family?"

"Alright, alright.  Maybe we'll have to make our debut as a duo then."

"I think I'd like that."

"Oh my goodness...do I hear music playing in there?" Amalie's voice sounds from the other side of the door.  Nakano quickly does up the buttons on her shirt, I do the same.  She doesn't move though, so I also stay put.  The door opens a crack, I can see Amalie peeking in.  "Is it safe?"

"Amalie, quit that and just come in." Nakano says in irritation.  Amalie opens the door properly, leaning on the frame.

"Aw, you guys look comfy.  I hate to tell you this, but Mom says Kei-chan should probably be heading home.  It's almost 10 o'clock."

I sit up.  "She's right, tomorrow's our last day before we head to Tokyo again, there's a lot to do."

"Mom is in the kitchen, she says to stop by there before you go.  It was nice meeting you, Kei.  I'm sure we'll be seeing a lot more of you."

"Thanks, Amalie, it was nice meeting you, too."  She smiles and shuts the door again.

Nakano sighs.  "Let me look at your neck."  She uses her hand to gently tilt my head back.

"Why?"

"Well," she says, blushing, "I didn't think I left a mark, but I wanted to make sure."

My eyes widen.  I guess she was sucking on my Adam's apple pretty intently.  I smirk, I kinda like the idea of having a girlfriend who's not afraid to leave her mark on me.  Of course, I'd never hear the end of it from the guys.  "I'm not going to need makeup, am I?"

She chuckles.  "No, you're good.  Did you leave any on me?"  She lifts her chin.

"You're good too."  We stand up, and I stretch, then wrap my arms around her again.  "Well, this was quite an evening, Roses."  I kiss her forehead.

"That's for sure.  Come on, I'll walk you out."

We go to the kitchen, where Emiko-san has a small package wrapped up for me.  "Three pieces of strawberry shortcake.  Please share them with your family, Kei-chan."

"Thank you, Emiko-san, I will.  And thank you again for having me to dinner."

"The first of many, I hope, Kei-chan.  Goodnight."

"Goodnight, Emiko-san."

Nakano walks me back to the door, and I put my shoes on.  I give her a gentle kiss and whisper "Goodnight, Roses."

"Goodnight, Kei.  Text me when you get home, okay?  I'll see you tomorrow."

I walk home, feeling warm inside.  I think her family kinda likes me.  We've cleared one of those first big relationship milestones - the boyfriend officially meeting the parents.  I wonder what the next one will be?

Chapter Text

It was still dark outside as the team gathered together, giving their bags to Takeda-sensei and Coach Ukai to load on the bus.  Nakano walked up, carrying several of the team's bags from the gym, just in time to hear her blonde boyfriend mocking Kageyama and Hinata for being able to sleep anywhere.

Dropping off the bags, she sidled up to Tsukki.  "Big talk coming from a man who is likely to be asleep with his head in my lap within the next 15 minutes," she said with a smirk, gently hip-checking her boyfriend.

As the middle blocker prepared to clap back at his girlfriend, his best friend walked by with his own bags.  "She's got you there, Tsukki," Tadashi said, high-fiving Nakano as he walked past.

"Shut up, Yamaguchi."

"Sorry, Tsukki."  Yamaguchi and Nakano both laughed, as Tsukki tried to look stern but couldn't quite keep the corners of his mouth from turning up just a little. 

The three friends boarded the team bus, eyes moving around, trying to choose where to sit.

"We made sure to leave the bench in the back for you guys," Kinoshita said with a big smile.

"Yes, please, make yourselves comfortable," Ennoshita followed up, laughing.

Nakano and Tadashi laughed good-naturedly, remembering the last bus ride they took together.  Tsukishima clicked his tongue and grabbed Nakano's hand, pulling her to a pair of seats near the back.  "Not this time," he muttered under his breath.  Yamaguchi took the single seat across the aisle from them.

Both Nakano and Yamaguchi had noticed Tsukki's mood of late.  He was tense, off and on, and getting more tense as this week-long camp approached.  I'm sure our little dust up the other night has only made it worse, Nakano thought as she and Tsukki settled into their seats.  He's still not ready to talk to me about it yet, but things are going to come to a head at this camp.  Surrounded by players all striving to move forward as much as possible, he's not going to be able to ignore it.  She looked across the aisle at Tadashi, they shared a smile which told the other 'It's Tsukki, what else can we do?'  

Refocusing her gaze to Tsukki, Nakano found him staring at her.  Her eyes widened, and he leaned in to whisper in her ear.

"Say, Roses, could you please stop making eyes at Tadashi?  I'd appreciate it if my girlfriend kept her eyes on me."  His look was a mix of smirk and glare, and Nakano didn't fail to notice that.

"Hey, you know better than that," she whispered back.  "I wasn't making eyes at Yams.  I just feel bad that he ended up sitting alone."

"He's a big boy, he can find someone else to sit with if he wants," Tsukishima's voice softened a bit, "and I can't help it, I just like having you all to myself."  He delicately nibbled on the edge of her ear, she stifled a gasp.

"Kei!" she whisper-yelled.

"Whispering sweet nothings to each other?  How adorable!" Tanaka yelled from behind them, popping his head up over their seats.  Both blondes jumped, Nakano chuckling and Tsukishima groaning.

Nakano reached up and pushed Tanaka's face back away from their seats.  "Go take a nap, Tanaka-senpai," she said.

Instead, Noya joined Tanaka in leaning over the pair's seats, acting out their own version of the conversation they'd just interrupted.

"Oh, Naka-chan, I love you so much.  Kiss me!"  Noya said in his best manly Tsukishima voice, leaning over making kissy faces at Ryu.

"Oh!  Not here Kei, everyone will see!" replied Tanaka in his squeaky girly voice, fluttering his eyelashes and trying to keep away from Noya.

Nakano sighed and turned to Tsukki.  Mimicking Tanaka's girly voice, she clasped her hands together and batted her eyes at him.  "Oh Kei, there are two older boys bothering me!  Can you please crush their heads with your strong middle blocker hands?"

"Of course, darling," Tsukki replied gruffly and started turning around in his seat, hands reaching for his senpai's heads.

"That's enough!  Settle down all of you!  We've got a long bus ride and I'm too tired to deal with this crap right off the bat."  Coach Ukai called out from the front.  

Tanaka and Noya collapsed in stifled laughter on the back bench, while Tsukishima settled properly in his seat and encouraged Nakano to snuggle against him.  She did so, letting him guide her into the position he wanted.  As the bus finally pulled away, Tsukishima smirked at his girlfriend.  "Guess my head won't be in your lap on this trip after all."

"Hmmm...and you're happy about that?"  She looked up at him, eyes sparkling.

Tsukishima started, then chuckled.  "Fair point."

She snuggled against him a little more.  "See?  It might be worth allowing there to be a few more pictures of us sleeping out there in the world if it means you get to have me run my fingers through those soft blonde locks of yours for a few hours."

He rested his head on hers.  "Mmmmm.  I do like it when you do that.  Something to look forward to at the end of the week."  He took a deep breath, and Nakano knew he was trying deliberately to catch her scent.  She did the same, nuzzling in to him a little.  He smelled of pine trees and musk.  He chuckled.  "This isn't so bad, either, as far as sleeping positions go."  He laced his hand with one of hers.  "I'm sorry I've been out of sorts a bit, Roses," he whispered, making sure only she could hear.

"Don't be stupid.  That's why I'm here.  You wanna talk about it?"

He sighed.  After a moment he said, "Honestly, no.  I'm too sleepy right now to want to talk about something in any depth.  And on the team bus is not the ideal location for it, either."

At that moment, Nishinoya gave out a giant snore behind them, followed almost immediately by incoherent babbling from Tanaka and a soft smack sound.  Nakano and Tsukki chuckled.

"Did Tanaka just slap Noya in his sleep?" Nakano asked.

"Yep, I'm pretty sure that's what we just heard," Tsukki replied, "Two bodies, one brain cell."

"Wish I had a video of that," she said, "Anyway, you know I'm here whenever you need to talk, hmmm?"

"Thanks, Roses," he mumbled softly, his breathing beginning to deepen.  Nakano didn't need to look at him to know his eyes were closed.  She snuggled in and let her own eyes close as well.  Soon enough, the two fell into sleep cuddled against one another.

🏐🏐🏐

At last they arrived at Shinzen High, all the usual unloading and greetings happening.  Nakano admonished Tsukki as they made their way up towards the school.  "Please don't get all upset and bothered by Bokuto and Kuroo.  You know they are gonna be over the top, especially Bokuto."

To her surprise, Tsukishima chuckled, putting his arm around her as they walked.  "I know.  I expect you will handle them with your usual skill.  But I still reserve the right to smack them if they touch you."

"Bokuto's gonna go for the hug, Kei.  Just sayin'.  You know it, and I know it."

Sure enough, as they approached the gyms, they soon ran into Bokuto, Kuroo, Akaashi, and Kenma.

"Well well, if it isn't Skinny Jeans and the Pretty Setter!  Welcome back!" Kuroo called out, waving as he caught sight of the pair.  Bokuto immediately began to jog up to them.  

"Nakano!  Hey hey hey!  Glad you're back with us!"  He looked like he wanted to sweep the girl up in a hug, but stopped as he got close and saw Tsukishima's arm around her.  He cocked his head and looked at the pair.  "Man, your team really worries about you, huh?  They've assigned you a bodyguard!"

Nakano laughed.  "This is my boyfriend, Bokuto.  Tsukishima.  He's on the team."

"Right, right.  So, bodyguard, can a fella at least get a welcome back hug from the girl?"  Bokuto threw his arms open wide.  Akaashi walked up and put a hand on Tsukishima's shoulder.  "Let me apologize for Bokuto-san's behavior this week in advance.  It'll save time."  Tsukishima facepalmed and let Nakano go.  "Good luck," he said to the girl.

"No lifting," she said to the owlish ace.  He laughed and gave a her a relatively calm hug.  "Can't wait to hit some of your sets, girlie!  Woohoo!" Bokuto jumped up and headed off towards the gym.  

"Wow, that was amazingly calm for Bokuto.  I'm impressed he listened,"  Kuroo said.  "Come on, we'll show you where everything is around here."

Before long, things were well underway.  Gear was stowed, and the first sets were beginning.  The managers decided that, with so many meals to be worked on, they would work in groups of three to handle the days.  Yachi, Mako and Eri were assigned to food detail for the first day, leaving the other four managers, including Kiyoko and Nakano, to handle things for the boys.  Kiyoko stayed with Karasuno, taking voluminous notes, while Nakano ran water and towels for not only her team, but Nekoma and Shinzen as well, mentally noting as much as she could about each team to share with Kiyoko whenever she had the chance.

"Hey, Karasuno manager girl," Lev asked her as she came by with more towels.  "Are you going to be doing the penalty laps with your team again?  I think it's really funny that you do that.  OW!"

Kuroo had hit Lev in the head with a ball.  "First of all, be nice, she's helping us out.  Second, her name is Ogawa Nakano, not Hey Karasuno manager girl.  And third..."

"I stand with my team, Lev.  I'm a volleyball player too, so if my team takes a penalty, you'd better believe I'll be right there with them."  Nakano finished, Kuroo giving her a wide grin.

"You play?  What position?"  Lev asked.

"I'm a setter," Nakano replied.

"And not just any setter, but the Queen of the Court from Kitagawa First," Kuroo supplied.

"Wow, Queen of the Court, hunh?  What does that mean?"  Lev looked both impressed and confused.

Nakano laughed.  "Don't worry about that, Lev.  Just call me Nakano, okay?  I hope that later you can join us to play some sets during individual training."  Nakano left the towels on the bench and headed back over to Karasuno.

Once again, it looked like Karasuno was the weakest out of the teams.  Well, I didn't really think that would change in the short two weeks we've had to practice our new techniques, she thought.  Trying them out in practice and trying them in a real match against a real opponent are two different things.  All of the things they'd worked on so hard on were still new and raw, and didn't quite go as planned.  Noya's libero set, Asahi's jump serve, the new synchronized attack, and toughest of all, Kageyama and Hinata's new quick were all attempted but none of them worked properly just yet.  It doesn't help that Tobio and Shoyo still aren't really speaking to one another, she thought.  I wish I could do something to help them out.  And then there was Tsukishima.  He was just...playing.  The way he always did.  Giving enough, but nothing extra.  Damn, Nakano thought, I wish I knew what to say to him, too.  I really hope something gives in him this week.  Or he might well run the risk of being taken out of the starting lineup.  I know Coach has got to be thinking along those lines.  His height won't be enough to keep him in if that's the only thing he brings to the team.  He can do so much more!  How do I get him to see that?

It didn't take long for Karasuno's first set to end in defeat, with an absolutely huge point gap.  Nakano set down the bottles and towels she was carrying, and jogged over to join her team as they headed outside to take the penalty run.  

"Ugh," Tsukishima said as she walked up to him at the bottom of the hill.  "I think I'd prefer flying laps to this hill in this heat."  

"Well," she replied, "given how that first set went, I think you'd better prepare yourself.  We are likely going to become very good friends with this hill."

"GO!" yelled Daichi, clapping his hands, and Nakano took off, tearing up the hill with her team.

🏐🏐🏐

At last the formal matches ended for the day, and people began breaking off for individual training.  Nakano made a final run on water bottles and towels, making sure that each gym where players were working had a supply available.  It was in Gym #3 that she found Kuroo, Bokuto, Akaashi, Tsukki and Lev working on spiking and blocking.

"Hey hey hey!  It's Nakano! Come join us, little lady!"  Bokuto sang out as Nakano set down the towels and water bottles.

"Perfect timing.  Now we can play a 3 on 3." Kuroo said, smiling at the girl.

"Hey guys!  That sounds..." Nakano caught Tsukki giving her a 'please don't' kind of look, "...great!"  He grimaced at her.  She ran over and gave him a hug, whispering in his ear.  "You've gotten to be all over the court today.  I want to play too."

"I'm gonna get you for this later, Roses," he whispered back.

"Alright, alright, keep the PDA to a minimum, please," teased Kuroo, "How about me, Glasses and Akaashi against Owl-Boy, Lev and the Pretty Setter?"

"WOOT!! NAKANO'S GONNA SET FOR ME, YEAH!" Bokuto cheered.

Nakano fixed Kuroo with a glare.  "I'm thinking this is a bit of a mismatch here, Kuroo."

He slung an arm around each of his teammates.  "Whatever do you mean, Nakano?" he said, smiling at the girl.  

"Brains versus brawn, hunh?  And you took most of the brains to your side of the court."  Nakano said, her hands on her hips.  "Well, let's just see how that works out for ya."  She looked at Tsukishima with a wicked smile.  "Ready for this?"

"Bring it on, Naka-chan."  He replied, returning her look.

"Here, Nakano," Kuroo smiled, chucking the ball to the girl, "it's only fair that we let the lady serve first."

"Uh, Kuroo, I don't think you want to do that," Tsukishima said.

"Why not?  Surely we can give her that much, right?  Don't tell me it's gonna bother you to beat your girlfriend in a friendly little 3-on-3?  Are you that whipped already?"  he smirked at the blonde.

Tsukishima just gave him a small smile, and prepared himself for the receive.  I've watched her work with Asahi for the past two weeks, he thought.  This ought to scare the crap outta this bedhead.

"Gentlemen, let's begin."  Nakano said with a smile.  Moments later, she tossed the ball high in the air, took her run, and slammed it down to the far left corner of the court.  The rebound took the ball hard against the back wall, returning it to the middle of court, where Tsukishima picked it up.

He gave a Kuroo a knowing smirk.

"I'll be damned," Kuroo said softly.  He then broke into his hyena laugh.  

"Nice goin', Nakano!" Bokuto said as Tsukishima tossed the ball back to her.  "Let's see that again!"

Nakano scored two more service aces before Kuroo was finally able to receive one.  Akaashi set up Tsukishima, who took the shot, only to be blocked.  Akaashi was there to pick it up, however, going straight into a setup for Kuroo.  He powered past Bokuto and Lev's block, and Nakano was unable to receive it, the ball flying off her arms to the back of the gym.  

"Oh this is gonna be fun," Kuroo said with a smile.

Soon the score was Brains 3, Brawn 4. 

"One more and we've caught up," Kuroo said with a smirk, "Let's get 'em guys."

It was Lev's serve, and Tsukishima picked it up easily, passing to Akaashi, who set up Kuroo.  Bokuto, Nakano and Lev went for the three-man block, but Kuroo sliced a sharp cut shot right by them.

Nakano grimaced at him.  "Didn't take too long to catch up from your service aces, girlie,"  Nekoma's captain gloated.  "I think we've got this one in the bag."

"Set me a good one, Nakano!" Bokuto groused.  "I'll show that cat what's in the bag he thinks he's got us in!"  Nakano looked at him in confusion.

"Don't try to figure it out, Nakano," Akaashi said, "It will only make your head hurt."

Nakano worked hard to try to keep Bokuto from getting too frustrated, and adjust to Lev's height and power.  Even so new to the sport, his raw talent and height and strength made him formidable.  But his lack of knowledge of the finer points of the game made for some strange errors.  After a few more volleys, the score had become Brains 7, Brawn 5.  After a strong three-man block shut Bokuto down, Nakano pulled her teammates to the back of the court for a conference.

"Man, I hate being shut down," Bokuto pouted.

"Boys, listen up,"  Nakano said, "the problem here is that they always know who's getting the set.  It's obvious.  And then they do a three-man block, which is never easy to overcome.  We need to trick them - make them unsure who will be taking the next shot."

"Yeah!" Lev said, "What does that mean?"

"Let's borrow a little strategy from my team," Nakano said with a smirk.  "Every time you can, I want you to go all out.  Both of you at once.  Charge in like you know you're gonna get the set, and trust me to get it to you, okay?"

"But you're gonna set it to me, right Nakano?"  Bokuto asked, looking like an anxious puppy.

"Trust me, boys, you're each going to get sets.  And no one will know which until the ball gets there.  I got this.  Don't say anything about this, okay?  Just do it, and we might be able to rack up a few points before they catch on."

"Okay!" Lev said.  "But what do I do if I jump and the ball doesn't come to me?"

She looked at him and clapped him on the shoulder.  "Land on your feet, don't touch the net, and get ready to jump again."

Lev appeared to consider this idea.  "I can do that."

"Are you playing volleyball or hosting tea over there?" Tsukishima called.

Nakano looked at him with her eyebrow cocked.  "Really?  That's the best you can do?"  He clicked his tongue at her, looking irritated.  She chuckled.  "Serve it up, Bokuto."

Bokuto put the ball in play.  Tsukishima got the set, but Bokuto was able to receive, giving Nakano a high pass.  Lev went into motion in front, Bokuto began to move as well.  The opposing boys focused on Lev, so Nakano gave Bokuto the back attack, scoring the point.

"HEY HEY HEY!" Bokuto exulted, "I AM THE MAN!!"  

Nakano high fived him.  "You certainly are, Bokuto-san."

The Brawn team continued to employ this strategy with some success, Nakano even using a back-toss to set up Lev while seeming to stay focused on Bokuto in front of her.  Soon, they had the score even at 10 each.

Kuroo called a time out.  "Damn, she's good," he complained.

Tsukishima suppressed a smile.  "She's using our own strategies against us.  She's got them doing a two-man synchronized attack, using one as a decoy."

"Yes, but to pull it off, she has to keep her intention with the set completely hidden," Akaashi said, "I don't know how she does it.  I've been watching her carefully and I cannot find a tell.  It's like she gives away nothing at all."

Tsukishima recalled something Nakano herself had said a while ago.  'Tobio says it's part of why I'm such a good setter. I can read what my opponent is doing, but I myself give nothing away.'  That's a real asset on the court, he thought, but I wonder if you do that with more than just volleyball.  He looked over at her, as she conferred with Bokuto and Lev.  "Yeah," he said out loud to his teammates, "she's really good at that."

"Let's keep someone in the back to receive for now, and try to read block with two blockers.  We've got to break their streak or we could be in trouble here."  Kuroo said, also looking at the blonde girl across the court.  She's good, he thought, way too good to just be a manager for a boys' team.  She needs to be back on the court again herself.

"Alright, boys, let's go!" Nakano held the ball.  "Service!" she called out before putting the ball in play.

Sure enough, the Brains team was able to stop the effectiveness of the decoy strategy by picking up receives, and using a few decoy tactics of their own.  Before long, the score was Brains 16, Brawn 14.  

Dammit, Nakano thought to herself, what do I do now?  I don't know these guys as well as I know my own boys.  Bokuto is a giant man-child who isn't going to really go in for a whole lot of deep strategy.  And Lev is just too new at this - he's got no sense of strategy for the game either.  But I don't know if we can power through on just brawn!  The decoy strategy works because both of these boys just want the ball.  I wonder...can I convince them to follow me in blocking?  I gotta try - it may be our last hope.

Nakano began to pay extremely close attention to every move the other team was making, watching for the little details that would give away what might be coming.  She watched as Akaashi moved to set up...she caught his eyes as he focused in front of him...Damn!  she thought, moving to the front, he's gonna dump it!

Sure enough, Akaashi tipped the ball over the net.  Nakano slid in to save it, keeping the ball in the air and jumping back up to her feet.  Lev followed up, passing the ball to Nakano.

"NO WAY!  She can't set it...it's last hit!"  Bokuto cried at the lanky boy.

"You told me to just keep passing it to her so she can set it up!"  he yelled back.

"Not when she gets first touch!"  Bokuto groaned.

Nakano meanwhile, moved to take the shot, gearing up for a powerful hit.  Knowing what was coming, all three boys on the other side jumped to block her.

And Nakano lightly popped the ball right over their heads.  Point for Brawn.

"A FEINT!  Man, I LOVE this girl!"  Bokuto yelled, giving Nakano a high-ten.

"Bokuto-san, could you please not say that about my girlfriend," Tsukishima deadpanned at him.  Nakano and Kuroo both laughed.

Play continued, rallying back and forth, the teams pretty evenly matched.  Eventually the score reached Brains 21, Brawn 19.  We beat them to 20, Kuroo thought, we should be able to clinch this.  Tsukishima was in motion, about to take the shot.  Kuroo watched Nakano grab both her teammates' shirts.  "Wait for it," she growled, "NOW!"  The three shot into the air, and Tsukishima's hit was deflected back down by Nakano's hand.

Or maybe not, thought Kuroo wryly.

Nakano caught Tsukishima's eyes as they landed.  She smirked at him, and he shot her a look of frustration.  That's it, Kei, she thought, get back at me.  Don't let me win against you so easily.

The Brains team seemed to gain new life, as Tsukishima began to focus directly on Nakano, countering any move of hers that he could.  The final points moved swiftly, with the score reaching Brains 24, Brawn 22.  Bokuto had just received Kuroo's serve, passing the ball to Nakano.  She moved up to make the set.  Tsukishima watched her.  Suddenly, he knew what she would do.  She's gonna take the shot herself.  She's not gonna dump, she's gonna go for the spike.  He watched and waited.  Nakano sprang up.  So did Tsukishima.

He blocked her, the ball waterfalling down in front of her.

Brains took it, 25 to 22.

"Damn!" Nakano swore as she landed, looking up to meet her boyfriends' mocking eyes.  "How'd you know?" she asked him.

Honestly, he really didn't know himself.  There hadn't been anything in her movements that suggested it.  He simply knew her, knew the way she thought.  He shrugged.  "I just knew."  

"Hmmph," she pouted, "New rule, never play against you in volleyball."  She ducked under the net to grab him into a hug.  He chuckled, leading her over to the bleachers to get some water.

Kuroo smirked as he handed water around.  "Guess brains wins out over brawn after all, eh, guys?"  The group laughed.

Nakano sat down, chugging the water.  "Thanks for the game, guys," she said, stopping to breathe, "that was really fun."  The group chatted a little, complimenting each other on particularly good plays, before the boys returned to the spiking drill they had been working on earlier.  Nakano sat watching them, gently stretching and rubbing her legs.

Lev walked with his captain back to the court.  "Man, I bet we could have beaten you if we'd had another guy to play with us instead of a little girl," he said softly.

Kuroo smacked him in the head. "That little girl is ten times the player you are, Lev.  You didn't lose because of her.  You got to 22 points because of her.  So watch it or I'll have you doing penalty laps all day tomorrow."  He smacked him again, the silver-haired beanpole complaining loudly.  

Nakano chuckled, wondering what Lev was saying to upset Kuroo so much.  She watched as the boys resumed their drill, and saw Tsukishima return to his lax ways.  For a few minutes during our little match, he really gave it his all, because he didn't want to lose to me, she thought.  I wish he could find that fire on the court with the team.

Kuroo was baiting him, telling Tsukishima that he'd get surpassed by Hinata if he didn't watch out.  Tsukki's response floored her.  As several other Nekoma players joined them, Tsukishima left.  He's really upset, she thought, he completely forgot I was here.

She got up, debating whether or not she should try to follow him.  Kuroo stepped over to her.  "Hey, I'm sorry about that.  I think I really upset your boyfriend there."

She looked up at the tall captain.  "Good.  He needs to be pushed, Kuroo, and he's not listening to me.  I think he needs to hear this from someone other than his girlfriend.  Do me a favor, will you?  Don't ease up on him.  You see what I see, don't you?"

Kuroo nodded, smiling at the girl.  "He's got the skill and the brains.  He just doesn't give enough of a damn."

"Help him find a reason to give a damn, will you?  We need him."  She slapped him on the back.  "Thanks again for a great game.  I'll see you later, Kuroo."  She headed for the door, knowing what she needed to do now.

She needed to find Tadashi.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano spent twenty minutes checking around, looking for Yamaguchi.  She had given up and was headed back to the dorm areas when she spotted him, also heading for the dorms.

"Hey!  Tadashi!"  She ran to catch up with him.

"Hey Nakano!" he sang out, looking behind him.  He stopped and waited for her to catch up.  "What's going on?"

"I know you're probably beat, and headed for a shower," she said as she came up and slung an arm around his shoulders, "but can we chat for a few minutes?  There's a vending machine over there...how about a soda?"

He smiled. "Sure, that sounds great."

The two friends made their way to a small bench under a tree, sodas in hand.  They chatted for a while about the camp, and the work they'd done during individual training.  Nakano told Tadashi all about the three-on-three game she'd participated in.

"Woah, that sounds awesome!  I want to see your jump serve sometime!  So where is Tsukki now?  Still practicing?"

"No, I'm afraid not.  That's why I wanted to talk with you..."  Nakano told him the rest of the story, and what Tsukki said when Kuroo started teasing him.  "...I tried to talk to him about this before we came on this trip, Yams.  It...didn't go so well.  In fact, it kinda resulted in our first fight."

"Naka-chan, I'm sorry!  Is everything okay between you two?"  Yamaguchi looked genuinely worried, making Nakano laugh aloud.

"Tadashi, calm down.  As fights go, this was about as not-a-fight as you can get.  Everything is just fine between me and Tsukki." She smiled softly, remembering how needy Kei had been that night, how badly he had wanted reassurance that he wasn't going to lose her.  "But it's become clear to me that I'm not going to be able to talk to him about this topic until he's ready to dive a lot deeper.  I think his feelings about volleyball are also kinda tangled up with his feelings about relationships.  So if I try to talk to him about it, he starts getting lost in all of that."

"Mmmmm, I see.  So, what do you want me to do?"

"I'm hoping maybe you can talk to him, Tadashi."

"Uh..."  Yamaguchi gulped.  He'd talked to Tsukki about serious stuff before, of course, but almost always when Tsukki wanted to talk, or when he could hint around it indirectly.  Rarely had he ever tried to start a conversation with his best friend about something he knew Tsukki absolutely did not want to discuss.  "What should I say?"

Nakano chuckled.  "If knew that, I'd say it to him myself."

"Yeah, I guess that's true," Yamaguchi said, looking down at his hands.

"Tadashi, you've known Tsukki longer than I have...longer than any of us!  I'm sure you'll be able to find the words.  And I think that it will really impact him more coming from you.  You're his best friend.  Will you at least give it a try?"

Yamaguchi looked up at her and smiled.  "Of course I will, Naka-chan...I just hope I can find the right words."

She put a hand on his shoulder.  "I'm sure you will.  Don't worry too much about it.  Just...say what's in your heart and on your mind.  Tsukki values honesty.  If you're honest with him, he's going to listen."

Tadashi smiled at the girl.  "You know him pretty well already."

"Yeah," Yamaguchi was a little surprised to see a faint blush creep on to her cheeks. "I care about him an awful lot.  I know it seems crazy, because I haven't really known him all that long, but it doesn't feel that way to me.  I feel like I've known him forever sometimes."

Yamaguchi chuckled, making Nakano look at him and smile.  "I sort of got that feeling from the two of you pretty early on.  I'm glad you guys are together."

"Me too.  And I'm glad you're our friend, Tadashi," Nakano said, giving him a hug.  "I know you can do this, Yams.  After all, you're the best wingman ever!"

The two laughed as they finished up their sodas and started walking towards the dorms.  

"Well, I'm headed for the showers.  See you later, Nakano!"

"Bye Yams!  Hey...if you see Tsukki, would you please tell him I'll text him in a little bit?"

"Sure thing.  Goodnight, Naka-chan!"

"Night, Yams!"  Nakano headed towards the girls sleeping room.  Hopefully, Kei will join me for my night routine, she thought.  I'd hate to think he'd start this week off hiding away completely.  Okay, a shower first, then I'm going to text Kei.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano was busy serving as Karasuno's primary manager on the second day of camp, as Kiyoko, Kaori and Yukie were on cooking detail for the day.  Although both girls were first-years, Yachi tended to defer to Nakano, since she'd joined the team first.  Nakano decided to put Yachi in charge of handling water and towels for Nekoma and Fukurodani, who would be without managers that day.

Hopefully, it will help her get accustomed to being around these big guys, Nakano thought as she watched Yachi get started with her work.  Nakano had specifically asked Kuroo and Bokuto to be nice to the girl...and then specifically asked Akaashi to make sure that 'Bokuto being nice' didn't involve picking the poor girl up into a hug.  She chuckled as she watched the owl-like captain of Fukurodani wave enthusiastically at Yachi, then turn and give her a thumbs up.  Bokuto failed to notice that his wave caused Yachi to completely freak out and drop all the water bottles.  Akaashi had his face in his hands.  Well, maybe it won't help much, but it is fun to watch, she thought.

As she prepared for the first set of the day, Nakano glanced over at Kei.  She'd texted him last night, and he had finally caught up with her when she was almost completely finished with her nightly routine.  He'd been very quiet and very needy.  He'd come in and taken up position sitting behind her, wrapping his long arms around her midsection and mumbling apologies.  As soon as she'd finished her legs, he'd gotten her to switch positions with him, letting her cuddle him and play with his hair.  She'd made only one half-hearted attempt at getting him to talk, and when he didn't  respond, she simply let it go and devoted herself to snuggling the heck out of him.  I think I gave him more little kisses last night than I have in the entirety of our relationship so far, she thought, a soft smile coming to her lips.  I'm sorry he was feeling so down, but I have to admit, there is something completely adorable about him when he's needy like that.  I liked being able to lavish some affection on him.  They had sat, just curled up with each other, for well over an hour after she'd finished up her legs, before finally heading off to bed.

He smiled at her softly as he caught her staring at him.  She gave him a smile in return, and returned to her prep for the day.  Looking around, she realized she'd left her medical bag behind in the dorm.  "Damn," she whispered to herself, heading for the door.  "Coach, I'll be right back - I forgot my medical bag."

"Hey!" Ukai called at her, "We're about to start...do you really think you need it?"

She gave her coach a look that spoke volumes.

"Okay, okay," he said, "better to have it and not need it than need it and not have it.  Go on, hurry up."  She flashed him a big smile and took off at a run.

Tsukishima dashed off to the door of the gym as well.

"Hey Tsukishima, where..." Daichi began.

"Bathroom," he called back in a monotone before disappearing.

"I don't think he really needs the bathroom, Captain." Hinata said with a cheeky smile.

Yamaguchi covered his mouth and snickered.

Kageyama scoffed.  "You know you're not fooling anyone when this dumbass can figure you out," he said, hooking a thumb at Hinata.  

Meanwhile, Tsukishima quickly caught up to his girlfriend, grabbing her wrist to stop her.

"Hey!" she called out, "aren't you supposed to be warming up?"

He pulled her into a warm embrace, taking a deep breath and sighing.  "I just wanted to thank you for taking such good care of me last night.  I wasn't very good company."

She giggled.  "You were a huge blonde snugglebunny and I will take care of you anytime you need it,"  she said, booping his nose.

He rolled his eyes.  "Oh my god I think my blood sugar level just spiked from this conversation."

"You were the needy one, gorgeous, not me."

"Fair point.  Seriously, Roses, thanks."  He hugged her tight.  Did she just call me gorgeous?

"Idiot.  Like I said, anytime."  They kissed gently.  "Now how did you convince Daichi to let you out of the gym?"

"I said I had to go to the bathroom...which I actually do," he said, a little sheepishly.

"Well you better go and get back then before he comes looking for you.  And I really do need my medical bag.  Now go on, you!"  She spun him around, slapped his ass, and gave him a little push, dashing off towards the dorms.  Tsukishima's eyes widened, both his backside and front side tingling a little.  Woah, he thought, what has gotten into her today?  He smirked and called after her, "I'll get you back for that later, Naka-chan!"  She laughed rather maniacally back at him.

The day went on much as the previous one had, with Nakano taking care of her teammates and giving her observations to Coach Ukai and Takeda-sensei.  And running up the hill, over and over again.  At one point, as she went about her duties, Nakano chanced to overhear Coach and Takeda-sensei talking about Tsukishima.  As she feared, the idea of pulling him out of the starting lineup was was most definitely in Coach Ukai's mind.  

"Excuse me, Coach," Nakano said, bowing, interrupting the conversation.

"Woah...uh...Nakano, uh...look, I..."  Ukai looked incredibly uncomfortable.

"I'm sorry to intrude, but I couldn't help overhearing.  Your assessment of Tsukishima isn't wrong, sir, and I know you have to consider the good of the team first.  All I ask is that you give him a little more time.  Not everyone responds to things in the same way, Coach.  Most of the rest of the team was motivated to improve by the losses we've suffered.  Tsukishima is a little different.  But...well..." for the first time during her little speech, the girl looked a bit nervous.  "...I'm hopeful that you might see a change in him soon, sir."

Ukai smiled crookedly at the girl.  "No worries, Legs, I wasn't planning on making any changes to our lineup just yet.  We've still got a little time.  And I know you're just trying to defend your boyfriend..."

"No sir, Coach," Nakano said firmly.  "He's got to earn his spot, just like anyone else.  But thank you for giving him the time he needs to grow.  Some of us just take a little longer to work it out, you know?"  She smiled at her coach and hurried off to resume her work.

Chapter Text

Another long day of training camp had wound down, with formal matches ending and individual practice time beginning.  Nakano was busy clearing up from the day's work, and making sure everything would be ready for tomorrow.  Yachi looked pretty run down, but insisted she would finish out her job, bringing towels and water bottles around to the various gyms.  

"Are you sure, Yachi?  You look really...exhausted..." Nakano said.  Actually, she thought, you look like you spent the day riding enormous roller coasters.  Not only did she look tired, she also looked as though she'd spent the entire day terrified.  Plus, her hair was all over the place.

"N-n-no, really, I can do it!  B-but thank you for asking!"  Yachi started gathering up materials.  

"Okay, thank you!  I'll take care of bringing things to Gym #3, I'm headed over there anyway," Nakano told the girl.

"Great!  See you later!"

Nakano grabbed her bags and a supply of towels and water bottles.  Looking around, it seemed like most everyone from Karasuno had split off, other than a few boys who would be staying to practice in the main gym.  Kageyama, Yamaguchi, and Tsukishima had all left.  Well, she thought, I'm sure Tobio is probably still working on his setting, and Tadashi is likely working on jump floats again.  Maybe I'll see Kei in Gym #3...I hope so.  

"Hey hey hey!  There's our girl!" Bokuto called out as Nakano came in.

"Hey guys!" Nakano looked around.  "Have you seen Tsukishima?"

"I tried to get him to stay, but he turned us down.  Sorry, Nakano."  Kuroo said, a little sadly.

"Damn," the girl swore, looking down at her feet.  "I was really hoping he'd come back here to work on his blocks."

Bokuto was looking at Nakano and fidgeting.  "Come on, Nakano, set for me!"

She laughed.  "Bokuto, you've got a setter.  Akaashi is right there."

"Yeah, but he sets for me all the time.  I only get your sets during this camp, so I want lots of 'em!"  Bokuto gave her the best puppy dog look he could muster.  "Please, Nakano?  Please set for me?"

"You're going to make Akaashi feel bad, Bokuto," Nakano said with a chuckle.

"Yeah, Bokuto-san, I'm beginning to feel like you don't want my sets anymore," Akaashi said, a quirky smile on his lips.

Bokuto looked at his dark-haired setter and blinked.  He cocked his head to the side and blinked again.  Oh crap, Nakano thought to herself, covering her mouth with her hand to keep from laughing hysterically, that boy really does look like an owl!  

"Yeah, he'll get over it!"  Bokuto said, breaking out into a brilliant smile and tossing Nakano a volleyball.  "Toss to me, Nakano!"

Kuroo busted out his hyena-like laugh, and Akaashi just rolled his eyes and smiled a little.  "I'll do some blocking with you, Kuroo," the setter said.  Soon the four had a vigorous spiking practice going.  

After what seemed like about fifty or so sets, Nakano called for a break.  "I need some water, guys.  Can we take five?"

"Sure!" Bokuto said, "If you'll do another round of spiking with me afterwards!"  

Nakano laughed.  "I think you can talk me into that," she said, plopping down on the bleachers and drinking some water.  

"So, Nakano," Kuroo started, "if you don't mind my asking...how's your recovery going?  Do you plan on joining the girls' team soon?"

"Recovery?"  Bokuto looked seriously at the girl, placing a hand on her shoulder.  "Nakano,"  the ace said in a voice filled with concern, "do you have a problem with something?  Like alcohol...or drugs...or gambling?  Wait, are you a sex addict?"  He leaned in towards her, his eyes wide.

Nakano spat water all over the place.  "WHAT!?"  

"BOKUTO!!  WHERE THE HELL DID YOU GET THAT FROM?" Kuroo yelled at his friend.

"Sex addict?" Akaashi asked his captain.  "Bokuto-san, where do you even get these ideas?"

"What?  You said she was in recovery, Kuroo, and I watched this show where all these people had to go into recovery to get away from their addictions and stuff, so I figured..."  Bokuto looked at his friends in confusion as Kuroo and Akaashi both facepalmed and Nakano burst into hysterical laughter.

"Boku-bro," Kuroo said, messing up his buddy's hair, "you are so lucky that this girl has a good sense of humor."

"Kuroo-bro, not the hair, man..." Bokuto said, slapping Kuroo's hand away.

Nakano calmed her laughter.  "No, Kuroo," she said, still gasping, "He is so lucky Tsukishima wasn't around to hear him say that.  I think he might have tried to kill him."  She drank some more water, and faced the somewhat chastened black-and-white haired boy.  "Bokuto, I'm recovering from a car accident that happened to me when I was 12.  My legs were badly injured, and it's taken me a long time to be able to play like this again.  Actually, Kuroo, to answer your original question, it's likely to be at least another year before I'll be able to join a volleyball team again.  You can see the braces I'm wearing, of course, I really shouldn't even think about joining a team until I can make it through daily life without them."

"Oh, is that what those are?  I just thought you liked wearing them."  Bokuto said.

"What?" Nakano asked, completely confused.

"Well, they look pretty badass, all black straps crisscrossed up your legs like that, so I thought you just wore them to look cool," he replied.

The room went completely silent; the air heavy with tension.  Kuroo and Akaashi looked slowly from Bokuto to Nakano, unsure how she was going to react to that statement.  Both boys' jaws went slack as they saw tears form in the corners of her eyes, and she leaned over and gave Bokuto a small kiss on the cheek.

"Thanks, Bokuto-san," she said.  "That's the first time anyone has ever said my legs looked badass."  

Bokuto turned a lovely shade of pink and just sort of sat there, staring at the girl.  Akaashi looked at Kuroo.  "Well, none of this is at all what I expected would happen."

"I'm right there with you, bro," the captain of Nekoma replied.  He stared at Bokuto again, who still seemed to be out of it.  He shrugged and turned back to Nakano.  "I'm surprised to hear it will still be another year before you're clear to join a team.  It seems to me like you're playing really well."

Nakano blushed a bit and looked down.  "Well, actually, as much I'm enjoying myself at this camp, I'm probably overdoing it a little.  I was thirsty, but honestly, I needed this break because my legs are feeling pretty exhausted.  Those penalty runs are killer." All three boys got concerned looks on their faces, and seemed about to speak, when Nakano continued.  "I promise I'll take good care of myself, and go a little easier.  It's just so much fun to be able to play again, and you guys are so cool to let me play with you.  Please don't tell any of my boys I said I was overdoing it...they'll get on my case something awful."

"Nakano...what makes you think we won't do the same thing?" Kuroo said, leaning over and fixing her with an intense stare.

The strawberry blonde girl shivered and backed away from him.  "Oh man, you are waaaay too much like Daichi."  The four friends laughed.

"Come on, Akaashi...set for me!" Bokuto sang out.  "You," he continued, pointing at Nakano, "sit here and take a break, okay?"

She smiled.  "Okay, Bokuto-san."

The boys resumed their spiking drill, while Nakano sat back and watched them.  This is pretty awesome, she thought, I like these guys.  They really are a good bunch.  I just wish Kei was here.

As if she had summoned him with her thoughts, the blonde in question suddenly walked through the gym doors.  She was about to get up and go to him, but stopped when she saw the look on his face.  Something's happened, she thought.  She settled back again, quietly listening to his conversation with the other boys.  I don't think he's noticed me over here, and I think I'm going to try to keep it that way.  I can't believe he's asking these guys about their motivation for working so hard at volleyball.  Tadashi, is this your doing?  What did you say to him?  

Nakano covered her mouth to hold in her laughter as she heard Bokuto call her boyfriend Tsukkiblahdahdah.  Oh my god, Bokuto, you are a riot.  As the goofy captain told Tsukishima his story of coming to love volleyball, Kuroo glanced over at her.  She sat further back and shook her head.  Kuroo gave her a slight nod, and moved himself to block the girl from Tsukki's line of sight.  And you Kuroo, are a smart man.  She continued listening to their conversation.  A badass personal moment, huh Bokuto, she mused.  Well, he's not wrong.  I can remember the moment I fell in love with volleyball too.  It changed my whole life.

Nakano was lost in her memories, and didn't realize the boys' conversation had ended until she felt a familiar hand on her shoulder.  "Hey, Naka-chan, I didn't realize you were here,"  Tsukki said somewhat shyly as he sat next to her, slipping his arm around her and giving her a squeeze.  She caught his honey-gold eyes with her blue ones, giving him a look that conveyed just how happy she was to have heard the conversation he just had with the boys.  He colored gently and looked away, letting his arm trail down hers and interlacing their fingers together.

"You, little lady, looked like someone remembering their own badass personal moment," Kuroo began, sitting down on the other side of Nakano.  "Willing to share that story with us?"

"Oooh I love a good story, Nakano!  Let's hear it!" Bokuto plunked himself on the floor at the girl's feet, like a toddler ready for story time.  Akaashi joined him, sitting cross-legged and looking up at his fellow setter.

Tsukishima squeezed her hand as if to say that she didn't have to share anything she didn't want to.  She chuckled and returned his squeeze.  "Sure, why not?  So, my dad was a volleyball player throughout his school years..." Nakano began.

Tsukishima's eyebrows went up.  He'd not known her father had also been a volleyball player, nor had he expected this story to begin with him.  He wondered where this was going.

"...and even after his school days, he still continued to play volleyball as often as he could.  Well, when I little, he was part of a neighborhood volleyball league.  He used to take me to his practices and games whenever he could.  I loved watching him play volleyball.  One day after practice, he asked me what position I would want to play if I could.  'Setter', I told him."

"Of course," said Bokuto, and the group laughed.

"He asked me why, and I replied that it was the setter that made it possible for him to make his amazing hits - he was a wing spiker.  I told him that I really wanted to set the ball for him.  So the next week, when we went to practice, he arranged for the setter on his team to stay behind and teach me for a while."  A smile spread across Nakano's face, and her eyes seemed to be seeing something other than the room she was in.  "I learned the basics of setting that day.  We stayed until Kojima-san had to go home because his wife was expecting him for dinner!  My dad took me out to the sporting goods store and bought me my own volleyball on the way home."  She laughed aloud at the memory.  All four of the boys watched her, entranced.

"Well, I spent every spare moment I had in the week that followed practicing setting.  I think I broke four vases before my mother declared that I was no longer allowed to set in the house!  I did it in my room anyway, though.  I practiced until my hands were sore every day.  Finally, the next practice came around, and after it was done, my dad and I stayed and he let me set for him.  It took quite a few tries, but I was finally able to set him up a good one.  Watching him fly...hearing the sound of the ball as it hit his hand, and then slammed down on the other side of the court...and knowing that I was the one who'd made it possible for him to do that.  That was the most amazing thing I'd ever felt. Quite a moment, indeed."  She looked at her hands, caught in the memory.  "Well, not long after that, my dad got me involved in a kids' volleyball club.  And...here I am.  Still a volleyball idiot."  She laughed aloud, but the boys were silent, staring at her with a strange look in their eyes.  "What?" she asked, a little nervous, "too dopey?"

Kuroo was the first to regain his voice.  "Nakano-chan, how old were you when that happened?"

"Hmmmm...about six, I think,"  the girl replied, "Yeah, I must have been six, because I remember getting really upset that my primary school didn't have a volleyball club I could join,"  she laughed again.  "My dad had told me so much about his time in school volleyball clubs and I just assumed that all schools had them for all ages.  I was really unhappy to learn I wouldn't be able to join a school club until middle school."  As she thought of her middle school volleyball experience, her face fell and she looked at Tsukki.  He stared back at her, his eyes wide.

"You set a ball for your father - an adult - when you were six years old?"  Tsukishima was completely at a loss.  I knew she was good.  I knew they'd called her a 'genius'.  But I didn't know they were really right.  She really was a child prodigy.  You'd never know it from the way she is...the way she interacts with others.  I'd expect someone like her to be...well...more of an asshole.  More like the King.

"Hey...don't be too impressed.  It took me a ton of tries to do it, and it wasn't all that good of a set,"  she said, rubbing the back of her neck in embarrassment.

"Did your father successfully spike it?" Akaashi asked.

"Well...yeah," Nakano replied.

"Then it was a good set,"  Akaashi said, looking at Nakano with something akin to wonder in his eyes.

"After only a week of practicing you set a ball for your dad?"  Bokuto whispered.  "Damn.  Even I get how crazy that is."  Akaashi looked at his captain in stunned amazement.  He actually understands that?  Who is this guy and what has he done with Bokuto?  Akaashi thought.

"Guys...don't...it's not that big of a deal," Nakano said, looking down at her feet.

Tsukishima was just staring at his girlfriend.  To be that gifted, he thought, to have waited six years, practicing and preparing to be on her first real school team...and then to have it all taken away just as she was beginning to really come into her own.  My god, no wonder she feels broken.  He gave Nakano's hand another squeeze.  I can't imagine how she's gotten through this and not become lost in anger and bitterness.  How is she so amazing?  The barest hint of a smile came to his lips as he looked at her.  How am I so lucky to be the one holding her hand?

"Oh yes it is a big deal!" Bokuto said, jumping to his feet and pointing at Nakano.  "You are absolutely amazing, girl!  And now, you need to come set for me, the incredible volleyball god!  LET'S GO PEOPLE!!!"  Bokuto headed back over to the court, the others laughing and getting up to join him.

"Hey," Kuroo said, putting a hand on Nakano's shoulder, "are you sure you're up to this?  You can sit out despite Owl-boy over there."

"He's right, we don't want you overdoing it," Akaashi agreed.  Nakano looked daggers at them both.

"What's this about?" Tsukishima asked, looking at Kuroo.  "Did she overdo it before?"  He turned to Nakano again, his face showing some irritation.

"You guys..." Nakano growled.  She gave Tsukki's hand a squeeze.  "I was just a little tired.  Running that hill so much...it's pretty exhausting right?  I needed a little break after doing a spiking drill for Bokuto.  But I'm fine now!"

Tsukishima turned back to Kuroo.  "Did she fall down?" 

"What?  No.  Is that a thing?" Kuroo looked at Nakano.  "That better not be a thing, girlie."  Nakano facepalmed.

"You guys promised you wouldn't do this..." she began.

"Actually," Akaashi said, "we didn't.  You asked us to, but we never did give you an answer."

Tsukishima smirked at his girlfriend.  "Excellent.  So I'm assuming I can count on you all to continue to act as my informants."

"Sure, but let's go back to this falling down thing," Kuroo said,  "I remember she felt a little weak at the end of the day that first time I met her...do you mean to tell me she actually would have hit the ground if that teammate of yours hadn't caught her?"

Tsukishima let go of Nakano's hand, crossing his arms over his chest.  "When she pushes herself way too far, her legs can give out and she'll literally just drop where she stands.  If that happens, please, let me know immediately.  And then I will take care of her."  He leaned over and brought his face very close to Nakano's.

She smirked back at him.  "Honestly, I'm not sure if I should be afraid or excited," she pushed a little forward, almost touching noses with the blonde middle blocker.

"Okay, getting a little too much information here," Kuroo sang out.

"Heeellllooooo?  Guuuuys?  I'm waiiiiting over heeeereeee..." Bokuto drawled, looking over at the others.  They laughed and Kuroo and Akaashi jogged over to him.

"Seriously, Roses, you okay?" Tsukki whispered to his girl.

"I got this," she whispered back.  "I'll do another round of sets for you Bokuto, but then I wanna jump some blocks for you too!" The girl called out as the two jogged over to join their upperclassmen.

🏐🏐🏐

The Gym #3 crew continued drilling until dinner was called.  As they headed towards the dining hall, Tsukishima held Nakano's hand, slowing her down when she might have kept up with Kuroo and the others.

"What's up?" she asked.

"After dinner...well, I guess after showers and whatever...will you wait for me before doing your legs?"  He kept his eyes straight ahead, a light blush evident in his cheeks.

"Of course I will," she said smiling.  He hadn't massaged her legs since the last trip to Tokyo.  Something is really going on in there, she thought, but I don't want to push.  I think I'll just let him come to this in his own time.  

Seeing the guys rushing ahead towards dinner, Tsukishima put his arm around Nakano, and her arm automatically went around his waist.  She let out a small sigh of pleasure as she settled into the comfortable walking rhythm the two always shared.  He looked at her, a smile playing on his lips.  They walked in companionable silence, the last two to make their way to dinner.

About an hour and a half later, Tsukishima was waiting in a teacher's lounge for Nakano.  Kuroo, knowing that Nakano would need a good place to take care of her legs, had let Daichi, Nakano and Tsukishima know about the lounge upon their arrival.  Similar to the room they'd used on the last trip, this one was actually even a bit larger, with a proper refrigerator and kitchenette area.  He sat on a couch, looking at things on his phone.  He was surprised he'd beaten her to the lounge.  I hope everything is okay, he thought to himself.  Should I text her?

Just as he was about to send her one, the door opened.  Nakano walked in, medical bag in hand, wearing sweats and a long tee shirt.  "Hey, I'm sorry, I hope you weren't waiting too long."  She wandered over to him, dropping the bag on the couch.  He stood up and gathered her into his arms, kissing her forehead.  

"Mmmmmm...worth the wait.  Hi, Roses," he said softly into her hair, breathing deeply.  The two stayed that way for several minutes, just enjoying the presence of the other.  "What kept you?" Tsukki asked the girl after a bit.

"An argument over who should have food detail tomorrow.  I'm the only one who hasn't done it yet, so I figured it had to be my turn.  Kiyoko and Yachi tried to insist that I stay with the team, but I don't think that's fair to them.  So, I had to stay until I'd gotten them to agree with me."

Tsukishima chuckled.  "How very egalitarian of you.  Or are you just tired of running up that hill?"  He smirked at her.

"Hey, I will run that hill as many times as you do - just keep count of any that I miss,"  she retorted.  He laughed, grabbing her medical bag and starting to draw her down to the floor.  "Hold on," she said, pulling at her sweats, "gotta take these off first."  With the sweatpants gone, Tsukishima suddenly found himself staring at his girlfriend, apparently wearing nothing but leg braces and a long tee shirt.  His eyes widened a bit, and she chuckled, lifting the hem of the tee.  "Don't get all excited, handsome.  I do have on my workout shorts."  

Yeah, big help that is, he thought.  Your black, skin tight, very short workout shorts.  Thanks Roses, for managing to make them sexier than they already are by hiding them.  He offered her his hand, helping her settle down comfortably on the floor with the help of a couple of pillows from the couch.  She removed her braces, wrapping them up and putting them in her bag.  Tsukishima sat down by her legs, looking them over, tracing his fingers over the scars from her operations.  She smiled at him, handing him her medicated cream.

"I should warn you...I know this is going to be a rough one.  My legs are pretty worn out, and the muscles are really sore.  It's...uh...pretty likely I'm going to be...noisy," she blushed a little, remembering how he reacted the first time he'd had to work a good knot out of her muscles.  "If you think it'll be too much..."

"Shhhh.  You settle back and let me handle this, Roses.  I think we'll be just fine."

She rolled over, laying on her stomach.  Tsukishima started at the top of her right leg, working the cream into her muscles as she had taught him.  Almost from the moment he touched her, she began making soft grunts and groans.  He could feel the tension in her muscles as he worked, trying his best to ease each one before moving on.  Occasionally, she would twitch and cry out as he hit a particularly bad spot.  He worked hard to make sure each such cry was eventually followed by a pleasurable sigh as he got her muscles to loosen up.

As Tsukishima massaged her legs, he tried to clear his mind, letting only the sounds and sensations of the massage session remain.  It had been a long 24 hours, and a lot had happened.  He'd had a lot to think about.  He wanted to explain to Nakano what he was feeling, but he was too wrapped up in feeling it to be able to articulate it properly.  Now, the pure, simple, sensuality of the experience he was having with her was actually helping to clear his mind, pushing out other thoughts and letting his mind reset.  I think, by the time this is over, I'm going to need to excuse myself, he thought, noting the increasing tightness in his shorts.  But as crazy as it sounds, I think that after that kind of rush, I'll be better able to just talk to her.  He helped her roll over so he could work on the top of her legs.  Halfway there, he mused.  Stop thinking, just enjoy the feeling of this, he told himself.  Someday, when we're older...when we're not in a high school teacher's lounge...Tsukishima allowed himself to imagine what it might be like, as he listened to the little noises of pleasure his girlfriend made under his ministrations.

Nakano's mind was hazy as she simply relaxed and let Tsukishima do all the work.  Her legs were very sore, and his touch, already so delicious just because it was his, was doubly so as he managed to do an excellent job of getting her muscles to calm down.  Slowly, the familiar tingling sensation began in her legs as the medication did its work.  Other parts of her body were also gently tingling, and not from a medicated cream.  God I love it when he does this, she thought to herself.  She'd thought that perhaps he'd wanted to talk when he suggested meeting tonight, but talking while this was taking place was almost impossible.  Maybe, when everything is done, he'll be ready.  She let herself go fully, not even attempting to hold back the sounds she was making as her leg muscles finally began to relax out.  Her mind went blank, simply soaking in the bliss of being touched by someone she cared so deeply for.  She lost all sense of time.  She was awake, but unaware of anything at all beyond the warmth in her legs.  That is, until she felt hot, soft lips against hers, and soon, his tongue pushing its way into her mouth.  She let him in, draping an arm over his neck as he hovered over her.  The kiss was passionate, long, and messy.  After a few minutes, his arms trembled, and his body slipped down onto hers.  They both moaned into each other's mouths, and Tsukishima broke away, getting to his feet.

"Be back in a bit," he said huskily, headed for the door, "Gonna wash up."

"Wash carefully," she said breathlessly.  

When he returned, both of them were a lot calmer.  Nakano had tidied up the room, put her sweats back on, and was waiting for him on the couch.  She smiled at him as he returned. The boy looked rather relieved, with a small blush still evident on his cheeks.  She stood, and he settled onto the couch, pulling her into his lap and snuggling her.  

"You okay?" she asked.

"Mhmmm," he said, kissing her left temple.  "You?"  She giggled in response to his question.

"Yeah, I'm feeling much better now.  Thanks for that...my legs haven't felt this good in a while."

"Good," he said, settling her into his lap a little more comfortably.  He held her for a few minutes before speaking again.  "I didn't know your dad was a volleyball player."

"Yeah, he was really good.  Took his high school team to Nationals two years in a row."

"Ah...so I guess that's another reason why you want us to get to Nationals this year, huh?  Like father, like daughter?"

She made a small noise of surprise.  "You know, I never really thought of it that way.  But yeah, I guess that does play a part in it."

He was silent for a little while, gently playing with her hair.  "My brother, Akiteru, also plays volleyball."

"Really?  What position?"

"Wing spiker.  He was the ace of his middle school team.  And then, he...went to Karasuno.  He was on the same team as the Tiny Giant."

"In the days when Karasuno was a powerhouse.  That was a deep team."

"Yeah...maybe a little too deep.  Akiteru wasn't in the starting line up.  In fact...I'm not sure if he ever played in a game at all during high school."

"Mmmmm, I see.  That must have been really hard on him.  And on you."

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Me?  Why?  It's got nothing to do with me."  His voice came out harsh, contrasting with the soft tones he'd been using to this point.

She turned and looked him in the eyes.  "Don't bring the walls down again, Kei.  Stay with me here."

He took a deep breath, keeping his eyes locked to hers.  "I..." He stopped, wrapping her into a hug.  "I can't help but see..."  He choked up, unable to continue.

She stroked his hair.  "Another Tsukishima, and another Tiny Giant, at Karasuno High School, hmm?  Is that what you see?"  He nodded against her shoulder.

"Kei, look at me."  He pulled back, meeting her loving gaze.  "Yes, your name is Tsukishima.  And yes, Hinata is short."  He chuckled despite himself, the edges of his mouth quirking up a bit.  "But truly, that's where the similarities end."

"But Hinata and I are both middle blockers..."

"Yes, but that's not what Hinata is aiming for.  He wants to be the ace, and I don't think you've got much interest in that.  He's gunning for Asahi's job, not yours.  Yes, technically, you both play middle blocker right now, but look at how you each approach that position.  Shoyo's a bouncing lunatic on the court.  He's the perfect decoy.  You are almost exactly his opposite.  You're logical, thoughtful, clever.  The most irritating kind of blocker.  Hinata confuses his opponents by being all over the place.  You outthink yours, using their own patterns against them.  You're two very different players.  There's room for both of you on the court...in fact, I'd argue we need both of you.  You'll notice you're both in the starting lineup.  That means Coach expects you both to work together to advance the team.  Don't throw that away because you're afraid that what happened to your brother might happen to you.  I'll tell you this...if you stay still, if you don't move forward as a player...well, then you'll make your greatest fear your reality."

He looked at her sharply.  A self-fulfilling prophecy?  Have I been so sure things will end badly that I've actually been making them trend that way?  Am I my own worst enemy?  

"Let me ask you something," Nakano continued.  "Does your brother still play volleyball?"

"Um...yeah, I think he does."

"Why?"

"Huh?"

"It must have been very painful, his high school volleyball experience.  Most people would want to leave something like that as far behind them as possible.  So why does he still play?"

"I...I don't know."

"Maybe you should ask him that.  I think you might learn something important from his answer."

He looked away, staring down at the floor.  There's more going on here than he's able to talk about right now, she thought.  I don't want him to shut down again, but there's one more thing I want to try.

She placed a hand on his cheek, and gently moved his face to look at her again.  She smiled at him, he couldn't help but return it.

"May I ask you one more thing?" she queried.

He nodded.  "When we played in that three-on-three against one another, did you hate me, in those moments?"

"WHAT?"  He looked at her with shock in his eyes.

"I blocked you.  I scored against you.  Did you hate me?"

"No, of course not.  I wanted to beat you, sure, we were rivals in that moment.  But how could you possibly think..."

She held up a hand.  "So it's possible to be rivals and still be friends at the same time, right?  Like us and Kuroo, and Bokuto."

"Well, sure.  That would be why its called a friendly rivalry," he said sassily.

"And a friendly rivalry like that can drive both people in it to do better, right?  To work harder to beat the other person while still respecting them, maybe even working with them."

"Yeah, I can see..."  He stopped, his eyes widening.  Crap, Roses.  You got me.

"You and Hinata may be rivals, but that doesn't mean it has to be him or you who stays on the court.  You can both be on the court, pushing each other to grow, and working together to push the team forward as well.  He's pushing, Kei.  And if you don't push back, he will push you off the court.  But I know you can push back just as hard, probably harder.  And I know that the two of you can find ways that your skills will mesh, making each other, and the team, stronger.  What happened to your brother sucked, Kei, no doubt about that.  But you are only locked into his future if you force yourself to be."

He pulled her into a hug again, holding her gently for a long time.  "Thanks, Roses.  You've helped me see things a little differently.  I think I really needed this."

She kissed into his neck, quick little pecks that made him squirm.  "I'm glad you were able to talk to me about it tonight."

"Me too."

"Think you'll be able to get some sleep?"

The very mention of the word set him yawning, which set her off as well.  They both laughed.  "Yeah, it seems like we both will." He kissed the top of her head as they made their way towards the door.  "How in the hell did I get so lucky?" he whispered under his breath, never thinking she would hear him.

She stopped him, and kissed him softly on the lips.  "I ask myself that same question every night.  How in the hell did you get so lucky?"

He laughed and messed up her hair, she play-slapped him away.  "Seriously, Kei," she said, cupping his cheek, "I feel pretty damn lucky myself."

🏐🏐🏐

"Nakano?  Nakano, wake up."

Nakano waved her hand around, trying to smack the person shaking her.  It didn't work.

"Nakano, I'm sorry, but you wanted to be on food detail today.  It's time to start making breakfast."  Nakano opened her eyes, seeing Eri poking at her.

"Do I want to know what time it is?" There was no sunlight coming into the room yet, making the strawberry blonde realize just how rhetorical her question was.

Mako shoved her with her foot.  "No, you don't.  This what you get for slipping off to hang out with your boyfriend instead of going to bed on time.  Come on, sleepyhead, let's go."

Nakano untangled herself from her blankets, grabbed her toiletry bag and headed for the shower with the other two girls.  "We don't just hang out in the evening, he helps me with my physical therapy routine," Nakano said, yawning, as the other two girls gave her knowing looks.  "He does!" she protested.

The two girls giggled.  "Whatever, Nakano, as long as the two of you are careful and take proper precautions," Mako said.  

"Oh for goodness sake!  We're first years, for crying out loud.  And if we were going to do that, we wouldn't do it in a teacher's lounge in a high school."  Nakano felt herself starting to blush a little, remembering what happened after her leg massage last night.  

"But your fella is so handsome...surely you spend a little time cuddling, at least?"  Eri said, looking at Nakano with wide eyes.

"Well...of course, I mean, we are dating,"  Nakano said.

Mako laughed.  "Well, I hope it was worth it, because since you left to go do your night routine or whatever, we've decided what you're going to be working on today."

"That's fine by me!  I'm happy to do whatever I can to help."

The three girls showered and readied themselves for the day.  Before long, they were in the big kitchen, laying out the plan of attack for breakfast.

"Okay, Nakano, how are you at making tamagoyaki?" Mako asked.

The strawberry blonde brightened.  "Pretty good, actually!  My mom and sister ask me to make it all the time."

Eri gave a big sigh of relief.  "Oh thank goodness!  I'm terrible at it.  I'll do the rice and miso soup, then."

"And I'll get the fish grilled up."  Mako said, preparing her workstation.

"Should I make sweet or savory tamagoyaki, do you think?"  Nakano asked, getting her area ready.  This kitchen is really well-appointed, she thought, this is going to be much easier than I worried it might be.

"Can you make some of each?" Mako asked, "That way we can make both kinds of people happy.  Not to mention, with all these boys, it's not like extras are something we need to worry about."  She laughed.

Nakano chuckled.  "I got this.  Sweet and savory it is."  She pulled her hair up, put on an apron, and got to work.  Tobio likes the sweet ones, and I know Shoyo is fond of the savory, so this works out well.  I wonder if they're talking to each other yet.  Maybe they can make up over my tamagoyaki, she thought to herself with a smile.  Hmmm, I wonder which kind Kei likes?  I'll get him to try both.

"Woah!  There must be a million strawberries in here!" Eri sang out, looking in the huge refrigerator.  

"Mmmmm.  I was thinking about those.  Maybe we could serve them with cream as dessert after dinner tonight."  Mako said.

"We have cream?  Like heavy cream?"  Nakano asked, an idea coming to mind.

Mako laughed.  "We have everything.  This kitchen is crazy stocked up.  What are you thinking about making, Nakano?"

"Well, I'd like to make it a surprise, if that's okay.  Suffice to say it's a specialty dessert of mine, and some of the members of my team adore it.  It'll take me some time to make, though...will we have the time, since we have to prepare lunch and dinner?"  Nakano looked around, noting the various machines available to her.  This will go a lot faster with proper equipment for making large amounts of things, but I don't want to leave the other girls with too much work.

Eri's eyes sparkled.  "If you're planning on baking something good for dessert, I will happily work twice as hard on lunch and dinner!  Just make sure there's a lot of it!"  

Mako laughed.  "Okay then, it's settled.  Nakano, you're on dessert detail once breakfast is complete.  Eri, no complaining when you have to pull double duty if Nakano can't help you."

"As long as I get double dessert, I'm down!"  Eri said with a smile.

Breakfast was soon finished and served up buffet style, with the boys attacking everything with a will.  Nakano joined up with her teammates before grabbing her own food.  

"Good morning, Nakano!" Daichi called to the girl as he and Suga and Asahi came in for breakfast, followed quickly by Noya and Tanaka.  "Are you on food detail today?"

"Yes, Cap, I am, so I apologize if I'm not around to take the penalty runs in the moment.  But keep count and I'll run them as soon as I can!"  The five boys stopped and looked at her like she was crazy.

"Nakano, you don't have to do the penalties at all, let alone catch up on them!" Suga said.

"Plus you'll be getting a big enough workout making all this food!" Asahi added.

Ennoshita came up to join them.  "What did you make for us, Nakano?"

"Oh, good morning Ennoshita-senpai!  I made the tamagoyaki," the girl replied, grabbing a plate for herself and handing one to Tsukishima, who wandered up along with Yamaguchi.

"Did you make sweet ones?" asked Kageyama, as he too joined the group, followed at last by Hinata, Kinoshita and Narita.  

Nakano laughed.  "Yes, Kags, I made sweet ones.  And, before you ask Shoyo, I made savory ones for you, too.  So please, tell me what you think!"  She turned to her boyfriend.  "So which kind of tamagoyaki do you prefer?"

He leaned over very close to her ear and whispered "Yours, Roses," as he put some of each kind on his plate.  She giggled, adding some of each to her plate as well.

The team ate and chatted, with several of the boys complimenting Nakano on the tamagoyaki.  "This is twice now you've made us a delicious breakfast.  You're a really good cook, Naka-chan," Yamaguchi said to his friend, "You're going to make some lucky man a wonderful wife someday."

Tsukishima arched a brow at him and smirked. "Yes, I'm quite certain we'll be very happy, and not just because she's a good cook, Tadashi."

Nakano blushed a deep red.  "Tsukki!" she gasped out, hiding her face in her hands.  She could hear him and Yamaguchi laughing.

"Wow, you got her really good that time, Tsukki," Yamaguchi said.

"Shut up, Yamaguchi," Nakano said through her fingers.

"Sorry, Naka-chan," Yams replied, laughing aloud.

Kageyama noticed that Nakano was a blushing mess.  "What did he say, Naka-chan?  Do I need to come down there and shut him up?"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Goodness, Your Majesty, try not to get so hostile over breakfast.  I simply complimented her cooking, that's all."

Nakano looked down the table at Kageyama, still rather red in the face.  "It's true, Kags. Tsukki and Yams just decided to overdo it on the compliments a bit."

"Hmph," the raven-haired setter grunted.  "Well, they're not wrong.  Your tamagoyaki really is terrific.  So quit being embarrassed."

Nakano laughed.  "Okay, okay, enough already you guys."

"So what awesomeness will you be cooking up for lunch, Nakano?"  Tanaka asked.

A sly grin spread across the girl's face.  "Actually, Tanaka-senpai, I'll be on a special detail this afternoon, preparing something that you won't get to enjoy until later tonight.  But rest assured I will be working very hard to make sure it comes out absolutely wonderful. And helping out with lunch and dinner as I'm able."

"What are you making, Nakano?"  Tsukishima asked, an equally sly grin on his own face.

"Not telling," the girl said, "but you'll love it."

"More than your tamagoyaki?" Shoyo asked around a great big mouthful of the dish.

"Oh yeah.  Just you wait." 

Once breakfast was finished and the kitchen cleaned, the girls began working on lunch.  Nakano started looking into the needs for the special dessert she had planned.  All of the ingredients she needed were available in sufficient quantity.

Except one.

Ugh, she thought, they've got cinnamon, but it's not fresh.  And I refuse to compromise on obaa-san's recipe.  I wonder if I can convince Takeda-sensei to take me to a market.

After checking with Eri and Mako to see if there was anything else needed while she was out, Nakano headed over to the gym to find Takeda-sensei.

Karasuno was playing a set against Fukurodani.  She watched for a moment as Tsukishima went for a block against Bokuto.  Woah, she said, watching him jump, seeming to almost loom over the net.  He's into this.  He's...pushing himself.  She fought the urge to cheer for him at the top of her lungs, knowing it would only irritate him.  But she couldn't stop the smile that spread across her face as she saw him play.  She walked over to Tadashi.

"Hey Nakano, what's up?" he asked.

She patted him on the shoulder.  "I don't know what you said to him, Tadashi, but thanks.  You're the best," she said softly to her freckle-faced pal.

"Right back atcha, Nakano.  I think it took both of us, in this case."

"And a couple of other guys I know too,"  she said.  "How many penalties have I missed?"  

"Three so far," Yamaguchi said with a groan.  She patted his shoulder again, and walked over to Takeda.  Once she explained what she had in mind, her teacher agreed to take her to the market, as long as there was double dessert in it for him too.  Just as they were getting ready to go, Karasuno lost to Fukurodani.  

Nakano took the penalty run with her team, and then they all watched her, laughing, as she ran the hill three more times.  She came tumbling down after the final run, out of breath and red in the face.  She raised a fist in the air as she settled at the bottom.  "I stand...with my team!" she said breathlessly.

Yamaguchi chuckled.  "Actually, I think you're sitting at the moment, Naka-chan," he said.

Tsukishima handed her his water bottle as she sat on the ground, gasping.  "You are out of your mind," he said, trying not to let the corners of his mouth turn up.

She downed the water and looked up at him.  "And you are one badass middle blocker."  He gave her a startled look and helped her up.  "I'll see you later," she said, kissing his cheek and running off to join Takeda-sensei.

He watched her go, letting the smile take over his face at last.

Chapter Text

Nakano's special dessert was coming along nicely.  Baking was underway, and early enough that she was able to help prepare the teriyaki chicken to go along with the sesame soba noodles Eri prepared for lunch.  She saw Asahi enter the cafeteria, and immediately went to join the ace.

"Hey Asahi!"

"Hey Nakano!  What did you make us for lunch?"

"Well, we have sesame soba noodles and teriyaki chicken.  I helped make the chicken."

The ace smiled.  "Extra chicken for me, then," he said, grabbing a plate.  The girl blushed and playfully punched his arm.  "Stop it," she said, "you're making me blush."  She started preparing a plate for herself.

Just then, Kageyama stormed into the room, looking like he was ready to punch something or someone.  He looked at the food, but then turned away and plunked himself down at the end of one of the tables, dropping his head to the surface with an audible clunk.

Tsukishima joined the queue behind Nakano.  "Hey, Roses," he whispered to her, giving her a gentle shoulder check as he grabbed a plate.

"Hey," she said, still looking at Kageyama.  "What happened to Kags?"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Apparently, His Majesty is still having some trouble getting this new combo with the Shrimp just right."

"And let me guess," Nakano said, "Shoyo isn't exactly being patient about it, is he?  Ugh, those two.  Hinata trusts Kags completely...so much so that he doesn't get the fact that Kageyama can't instantly do something as tricky as what they are trying to pull off.  And of course, that doesn't make it any easier for Kags."

"They're both ridiculously irritating," Tsukki commented.  "Did you make the soba or the chicken?"

"Chicken," Nakano replied.  "Hey, would you be willing to do something mushy and couple-like for me today?"

Tsukishima stopped putting noodles in his bowl and looked at her, a doubtful expression coming across his face.  "Like what?" he asked skeptically.

"I'd like to bring this plate to Kags, but I want to eat with you and don't want to go through the queue again.  Would you be willing to share a bowl with me?"

He rolled his eyes.  "I bet you want me to sit with the King, too.  This is asking a lot Naka-chan."  He fixed her with a smirk.  "What exactly will I be getting in return?"

She continued to put food on the plate she now planned to give to Kageyama.  "Well, aside from showing everyone at the camp the fact that you've got an amazing girlfriend...why don't you try taking a deep breath through your nose, Tsukki?"

He did so.  A mélange of delicious food smells assaulted him.  He caught just a hint of Nakano's familiar scent.  And underneath it all, another smell, that instantly made his mouth water.  He turned to her, his eyes sparking.  "Do I smell..."

"Uh-huh.  Do this for me, and I'll make sure you get a double portion."  Man, she thought, good thing I made quite a bit extra of the cake base.

He considered this, grabbing two sets of chopsticks as the pair moved away from the food line.  "That's nice, Naka-chan, but I know you'll make the same thing for me any time I ask.  So I think I'm going to need to ask for something else in addition to your offer."

"I did notice you grabbed two sets of chopsticks.  So what else do you want of me?"  She threw him a suggestive look as they walked toward where Kageyama was sitting.

"I don't know yet.  Let's just say you owe me one again."

"For that to be true, I want to add another condition.  Control your sassypants self, okay?  I'm trying to make Kags feel better, not piss him off more."  She smiled at him.

"Fair enough.  I'll simply be an observer."

She laughed.  "Good luck with that.  If you blow it, I don't owe you a thing."  She smirked as they both sat down across from Kageyama.  Nakano pushed her plate and a pair of chopsticks in front of the boy, and tapped him on the head.

"Oi.  Kageyama.  Time to eat, bro," she said.

"Bro?" he said, looking up at her.

She chuckled.  "I've been around Kuroo-bro and Boku-bro too much.  Would you prefer I called you big brother?" She grinned and pushed the plate closer to him.  "Come on, Kags.  You need to eat."

"But that's your plate.  You need to eat too."  He tried to push the plate back, she stopped him.

"Tsukki is gonna share with me.  I've been nibbling on this stuff all day as we've been preparing it, and he's got a big enough serving for two.  So eat, dammit."  She picked up a set of chopsticks and started eating from Tsukki's plate.  Kageyama looked mildly irritated as he watched the two share the meal.  Maybe I should have skipped the extra chopsticks, Tsukishima thought, suppressing a grin.  I'd love to see his face if I were to actually be feeding her right now.

Nakano caught his look as well, and reached across the table to chop him on the head.  "Ow!  What the heck, Nakano!?" the dark-haired setter yelled.

"Quit being such a pain in the ass and eat your food," she said to him, then sighed.  "I know it's hard.  I know Shoyo is impatient.  But do you know why?" she said softly.  He looked at her wide-eyed and shook his head.  How did she know I was upset about Hinata?  he wondered.  "Eat and I'll tell you why," she said with a smirk, continuing to eat her lunch as well.  He hesitated.  She sighed again.  "Tobio-chan, don't make me feed you," she threatened, lowering her voice again so only he and Tsukki could hear.

Oh hell no, Tsukishima thought, that is not part of the deal.  I swear, if she feeds him, I am totally feeding her.  He picked up a piece of chicken, ready to shove it right in her mouth.

Kageyama looked Nakano in the eyes and realized she wasn't going to give in on this one.  Again.  Dammit, why do I always lose to her?  "What did you make?" he asked gruffly.

"I helped with the chicken," she said with a smirk, knowing she'd won.

He put a piece in his mouth.  He chuckled to himself, seeing the satisfied look on her face.  "It's good," he said.  Tsukki went ahead and ate the chicken he was holding, seeing Nakano continue to eat from their shared plate.  He shook his head a little.  Dammit, she gets to me every time.  I was literally jealous that she might feed him and not me.  I need to get a hold of myself here.  I know she thinks of him as her brother, so what is there to be jealous of? 

"Thank you," Nakano replied to Kageyama, "and the reason why Shoyo is so impatient is because he trusts in you completely.  The idea that you can't or won't be able to make the new combo work just doesn't compute to him.  You're his setter, his partner.  He believes in you.  Be honest with him about what's happening and don't shut him out.  I promise, this is going to work.  But you won't be able to do anything if you don't eat.  So eat."

Kageyama stared at the girl.  "You...you really think he trusts me that much?"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Come on, Your Majesty, even I can see that.  Besides, you'd think by now you'd have learned to trust in what she says.  How often is she wrong about this stuff?"

Kageyama groused again, but continued to eat.  "Yeah, yeah, I know."  He took a deep breath in, and slowly let it out.  "Thanks, Naka-chan," he said, giving the girl across from him a small smile.

She grinned back, standing up and moving around the edge of the table to him.  "Come on, do it, big brother."  She offered him her fist.  He stood up, and completed the best friend hug with her, giving her an extra-tight squeeze.  I needed this, he thought, enjoying the warm full feeling in his chest again.  I've missed this so badly.  

As the two sat down again, Nishinoya plunked himself next to Kageyama.  "Well it's good to see your best-friend hug again," he said, "I think Kageyama was feeling hug deprived!"  

Nakano tossed her head back and laughed, while Kageyama colored slightly.  Suddenly, her chopsticks were yanked out of her hand.  Tanaka waved them over his head as he moved out of the girl's reach.  "You don't really need these, do you?" he called in a sugary voice, "You've only got one plate...so one set of chopsticks should serve you just fine!"  

"Really, Tanaka-senpai?  I cook lunch for you and this is how you treat me?  Give me back my chopsticks."  Nakano fixed Tanaka with a glare.

"Oh come on!  Tsukishima is right there with a set of chopsticks!  Go on, dude, feed your pretty girlfriend!"  Tanaka taunted him.  

Nakano rolled her eyes and started to stand up.  "Fine, I'll just go get another set of chopsticks."

Suga leaned over the girl, pressing his weight down on her shoulder.  "Oh, don't get up, Naka-chan, you've worked hard.  I'm sure Tsukishima is happy to feed you."  He turned a devilish little smile on Tsukishima.  "Right, Tsukishima?"

Nakano growled at the pretty setter boy.  "Suga-san, don't think I can't push you over..."

"Come on, Saltyshima!  Just feed her already!"  Hinata sang out from the other end of the table.

Tsukishima rolled his eyes and looked at Nakano.  She looked rather aggravated, which he found to be cute. Should I just go ahead?  I kinda want to feed her, actually.  Especially since she now looks like she's trying to avoid the whole thing.  Plus, I really want to see the King's face when I do it.  He picked up a piece of chicken again, holding it between the two of them. 

"Do it, Tsukishima!" Asahi called out.

"Ace?  You too?  Come on, guys, this is so..." she caught Tsukki's eyes.  "What?  You...actually..."

"You know what they say, Nakano.  You should give the people what they want." Tsukishima smirked at her and moved the chicken towards her lips.

"This makes us even, then, right?  I don't have to owe you one?" she said with a sassy smile.

He chuckled.  "Fine, this can count for that.  Now open wide..."  She closed her eyes and allowed him to feed her.  The entire table went nuts, oohing and making kissy noises.  Kageyama rolled his eyes and groaned, much to Tsukishima's satisfaction.  He thought that would be the end of it, until Nishinoya said "You know, turnabout is fair play, right Yamaguchi?"

Yams was seated on the other side of Tsukki, and he immediately grinned at Noya's statement.  "Absolutely, Nishinoya-senpai!  I agree with you completely."

"Ah well, too bad I'm the one holding the chopsticks," Tsukishima said with a smirk.  "Nice try, Tadashi."

Kinoshita handed Nakano a new pair of chopsticks.  "That's easily fixed," he said with a smile.

"Captain, don't you think..." Tsukishima began.

"Nope!" Daichi said with a big smile.  "This isn't practice time.  Leave me out of it."

"Chicken or soba?"  Nakano asked him.

"No," Tsukishima said, "I'm done."

She smiled at him.  "I've changed my mind.  I think I want to owe you one after all."  She picked up soba noodles and waited, a challenging smirk on her lips.  "Didn't you say we should give them what they want?"

"Please stop this already," Kageyama muttered.  

"Do it, Nakano!" called Ennoshita.

Tsukishima eyed Kageyama and gave Nakano a most cunning grin.  "You might regret this, Naka-chan."  He closed his eyes and opened his mouth, allowing the girl to feed him, much to the delight of his teammates.  As the chopsticks went away and he chewed the soba, he suddenly felt her warm lips crash against his in a quick kiss.  The team went wild again, and Kageyama groaned.

Nakano laughed at the blush creeping across her boyfriend's face.  "If I'm gonna have to owe you one anyway, I wanted to make sure it was worth it," she said, her eyes twinkling as she ate from their shared plate again.

Tsukishima went back to eating, looking at the girl next to him.  Did we just do that?  There was a time, not long ago, when if someone had started up something like this, I'd have gotten up and walked away so I didn't have to watch something so stupid, he thought, and now here I am at the center of it.  Nakano was laughing with Suga about something, the look on her face one of contentment.  And the really crazy thing is, I kind of like this.  It feels...it feels like...

Yamaguchi slapped Tsukki on the back.  "This is one crazy volleyball family, huh Tsukki?"

He gave his old friend a small smile.  "Shut up, Yamaguchi."

Yamaguchi laughed.  "Sorry, Tsukki."

🏐🏐🏐

"Wow," Eri said, a little drool coming down from her lip, "that is the most delicious table I've ever seen!"

Nakano had finished making a monumental amount of her strawberry shortcake, and it was now arrayed in individual servings across a large table, ready for the boys to grab at dinner.  The blonde setter was happy with how it had come out, and even happier that she had been able to squirrel away an extra full pan of the stuff for her own purposes, as well as several big servings for a few select special people.  She giggled at Eri's reaction and handed her a plate with a large serving of the cake on it.

"And here's the extra serving you deserve for all your hard work today.  Thanks for giving me the time to make the shortcake.  I've never made so much before...it was kinda fun." 

"Don't be silly!  You still helped with lunch preparations, and you even gave us the idea for an easier way to serve this dinner.  But I will gladly enjoy this extra slice of your cake!"  

"Come on you two, we're not done yet!" Mako called from the kitchen.  "We've got to get these katsudon on the tables before we have a horde of volleyball boys coming through those doors!"  The two girls laughed and went to help finish dinner preparations.

It had been Nakano's idea to take Mako's plan for a pork-based dinner and serve it up as katsudon in pre-made bowls rather than having the usual buffet style.  She chuckled to herself as she loaded a cart full of the bowls to take into the dining hall.  Just like our tutoring day, she thought.  I wonder if those three will remember.

Moments after the tables were laid out with dinner, a loud orange-haired boy came crashing through the main doors.

"Soooooo hungry!" Shoyo yelled, heading right for the food, and then stopping in his tracks as Nakano walked over to him.

"UWAH!!!  Naka-chan, you made katsudon and strawberry shortcake!  Just like our tutoring session!  THANK YOU!!" He leaped into the girl's arms, forcing her to stagger back as she caught him.

"Woah, Shoyo!" she yelled, trying to stay on her feet, "I'm glad you're happy, but please don't kill me here!"

"Excuse me, Shrimp, but you need to let go of my girlfriend.  NOW."  Tsukishima said with a hard edge to his voice as he and the other boys from Gym #3 came walking in.  

"Oooh, I thought she was Tsukki's girlfriend, not Shoyo's."  Lev said.

Tsukishima glared at him.  "She is, and don't call me that."

Shoyo ran over to the tall boy from Nekoma.  "She is his girlfriend.  She's also a great cook.  She made us katsudon and strawberry shortcake!  Best meal ever!"  The enthusiastic boy grabbed Lev's hand and yanked him to the tables.  "Come on, let's eat!"

Tsukishima wrapped his arms around Nakano.  "Mine," he whispered, and she giggled.  "Seriously, though, why do you let him do that?"  

She laughed, giving him a playful shove on the shoulder.  "It's not like I was given much of a choice!  He just pounced on me!"

Bokuto bounded up to the pair, tossing an arm around each of them.  "Hey hey hey!  I heard you made us some awesome eats tonight, girlie!  Thanks!"  He gave Nakano a peck on the cheek, and then proceeded to drag Tsukishima towards the food line. "Come on, Tsukki-dude, it's time for FOOD!  Hey, that rhymed!  I am such a genius!"  Tsukishima's face went from angry at the kiss to aggravated at being dragged around by the big ace.

"Kind of like that!" Nakano called after them, shaking her head at the boys.

Akaashi approached her as she walked up to the food tables behind Bokuto and her boyfriend.  "Again, let me apologize for Bokuto-san in advance for everything else he's going to do during this camp."  

Nakano laughed.  "He's fine, Akaashi-senpai.  Things will never be boring with him around!"

"You are definitely correct about that."  The pair picked up their food and headed to the table where Kuroo, Lev, Tsukishima, Bokuto and Hinata were already seated.

Kuroo scooted around to the other side of the table, opening up a seat next to Tsukishima for Nakano.  "Thanks, Kuroo," the girl said sitting next to her boyfriend.  Tsukki looked at Kuroo gratefully.  "Yes, thank you.  Now can you please do something about him?"  He pointed at Bokuto, who was seated next to him, extolling his virtues to the middle blocker.

"Nope," Kuroo said, "you're on your own there, pal."  He turned to Nakano.  "So did you really cook all of this deliciousness by yourself?"

"No, of course not.  Eri and Mako did most of the work, honestly.  You really should be sure to thank them too."  

Mako happened to be walking by at that moment and laughed.  "You can thank all three of us for the katsudon, but the strawberry shortcake was all her.  If volleyball doesn't work out for you, you can always open a bakery, Nakano!"  Nakano blushed gently.

It was a boisterous dinner at the Gym #3 table, with all six boys giving Nakano plenty of compliments on her strawberry shortcake.  Bokuto got a major dressing down from Akaashi and Tsukishima for almost using Nakano's strawberry shortcake as a weapon against Kuroo, who was teasing the ace about his hair.

"I'll get you back for that, dude, just wait until later tonight!" the Fukurodani Captain said with a mischievous smirk.  He stood up from the table.  "I'm heading back over to the dorm, you comin', Akaashi?"

The setter stood as well.  "Sure, Bokuto-san.  See you guys later tonight."  The two headed out.

"Later tonight?  What's going on?" asked Nakano.

"Ah, well, I hope you won't mind, but I'm hosting a little get together in your lounge tonight," Kuroo said.  "Just a chance for us to all get to know each other better apart from volleyball."  He had a decidedly naughty look in his eyes.  "I do hope you'll be there."

"Who is invited to this little get together?" she asked, quirking an eyebrow.

"The guys from Gym #3 and anyone they care to invite along.  I'd assumed Tsukki would tell you all about it."  

"Please, Kuroo-san, I've asked...ugh, nevermind," Tsukki gave up and simply went back to eating his strawberry shortcake.  Nakano chuckled.

Kuroo stood, getting ready to head out as well.  "It's going to be a good time.  See you there, okay?  I know you'll probably need to clean up here first, we'll wait for you.  Come on, Lev, you need a shower more than I do."  He grabbed the lanky boy and dragged him away.

"Wait for me?  Wait for me for what?  What is he planning?"  Nakano asked Tsukishima.

Tsukki sighed.  "I don't know.  I was thinking of trying to avoid it altogether, but since this is happening in the lounge, I figured we might want to be there just so they don't run too late, or mess things up for you."  He closed his eyes and ate another bite of the cake, a small hum of pleasure leaving his lips.

Nakano leaned over and whispered in his ear.  "I've got another, rather large piece of that set aside just for you, gorgeous."  He looked at her, eyes sparkling like a little kid who's just been told he's getting a special present. Oh my gosh, he is just far too adorable, she thought, I love it that something as simple as an extra piece of cake can bring that look to his face.  She leaned forward, touching their foreheads together.

"Ummm...Nakano?  Can I ask you something?" came a familiar voice. Tsukishima groaned, and dropped his head, seeing the tangerine-haired boy sitting across from them.  

Nakano patted Tsukishima's arm and turned to Hinata.  "Sure, what's up Shoyo?"

"I already had to sit through the deep discussion with the King, can't he find someone else to ask for advice?" Tsukishima muttered darkly.

Hinata looked at Tsukishima nervously.  "Look I'm sorry about hugging her!  You...you're not gonna try to get revenge on me, are you?"

Tsukishima fixed him with a menacing glare. "If I say yes, will you go away?"   Hinata panicked.

Nakano bopped Tsukishima on the head.  "Eat your cake and stop being a salty ass."  Tsukishima grumbled but returned his attention to his cake.  "What is it, Shoyo?" Nakano asked.

"Well..." The boy continued to watch Tsukishima from the corner of his eye.  "You've known Kageyama a long time, right?"

"Mhmmm.  Is this about the new combo you guys are working on?"

Hinata suddenly seemed to pop.  "Why won't he listen to me?  I know he can do it, so why doesn't he?  He went easy on me again today!  I have to get stronger or everyone will leave me behind!  Why won't he help me, Nakano?  Is he mad at me?"  Hinata looked at Nakano like a lost puppy.

Tsukishima rolled his eyes.  "Ugh, who's the couple here - us or this idiot and the King?  I swear this is like a lover's quarrel we're in the middle of,"  Tsukki said under his breath.  Nakano fought to keep from laughing out loud, making several strangled noises.  Tsukki grinned and took a big bite of cake.

"What did he say?" Hinata asked.

"Nothing important, Shoyo," Nakano took a deep breath, a goofy smile plastered across her face.  "Look, you know Kageyama is an incredible setter.  But what I don't think you realize is that this is really hard for him.  The technique he's trying to master...it's really tough.  He'll get there, I promise you.  But realize how hard he's having to work here.  Also...what do you mean he 'went easy on you'?"

"He set to me today, but it wasn't the new one!  It was an easy one!  Why does he keep going easy on me?"  He was clearly angry about this.

"Had you hit any spikes at all in a game today before that?"

"Uh...I don't think so."

"Well, he was probably trying to make sure you didn't lose your confidence.  When a hitter fails to hit, over and over, they can start feeling like it'll never work for them again.  Kags was probably worried you'd start feeling like that, and adjusted his set to where he thought you could make the shot right then.  You think he was being mean, Shoyo, but actually, he was doing it because he was worried about you."

Hinata's eyes got wide.  "He was...worried?  About me?"  The boy looked completely dumbfounded.  

"Yes, Shoyo.  You're his friend and his partner.  Of course he's worried about you.  Look, I feel your frustration.  I know this is hard for you.  But it's harder on Kageyama.  So...try to show him some support, okay?  And if he feels he needs to work alone, give him space to do that.  Just let him know you'll be there when he's ready."

"Yeah, you should totally invite him to the get together tonight..." Tsukishima said in a voice laced with sarcasm, "...as your date," he finished under his breath.  Nakano bit the inside of her cheek and shot him a look, trying hard not to get hysterical.

"That's a great idea, Tsukishima!  Thanks!  Thanks Nakano!" His enthusiasm restored, Hinata jumped up and headed off to find Kageyama.

Nakano and Tsukishima looked at each other and burst into laughter.  

Tsukki tried to catch his breath, leaning his head on his hand.  "Oh my gosh, are we going to become everyone's relationship counselors now?"

Nakano wiped her tears from laughing so hard.  "Honestly, I gotta say...as funny as this struck me in the moment...I have to wonder if maybe you've got it right."

He looked at her, surprise showing on his face.  "Really?  I was just joking...do you really think they're into each other?"

"It would explain a few things.  But I truly have no idea.  And if you're asking my honest opinion, right now, I don't think they do either.  I really think this is all about volleyball for both of them.  But...maybe someday, who knows?"

🏐🏐🏐

Tsukishima waited outside the room where the managers slept for Nakano.  She'd finally gotten finished with the clean up and grabbed a quick shower.  She emerged from the room, wearing her usual evening sweatpants and her 'Mighty Warrior' tee shirt from Noya, and carrying her medical bag.  Tsukishima raised an eyebrow when he saw the short tee on her.

"Are you sure you want to wear something like that to this...whatever this is?" he asked.  I'm not sure I want her wearing that tee shirt again anywhere anyone but me can see her in it, he thought.

She returned his look, cocking an eyebrow and saying, "You'd prefer I wore it during the day while I'm jumping around and setting for people?"

"Fair point."  The pair headed to the teacher's lounge.

"What do you think Kuroo's got up his sleeve?  Something tells me there's going to be an element of trouble involved." Nakano said, chuckling.

"Trouble?  Like what?"

"That's just it, I don't know.  He's a shameless flirt, and he's definitely got a naughty streak in him.  But, he's also his team's captain, and he's obviously pretty intelligent.  So...I'm not too sure what to expect.  But I get the feeling it's going to be at least a little bit of trouble."

Tsukishima opened the door to the teacher's lounge to see Bokuto, Akaashi, Hinata, Kageyama, Lev, Yaku, Kuroo and Kenma sitting in a wide circle on the floor, using the cushions and pillows from the various chairs and couches to make themselves more comfortable.  Several lively discussions were underway.  

"Nakano!  Tsukishima!  There you guys are!  Come on, we've saved you some prime real estate."  Kuroo gestured to a bunch of cushions between himself and Kenma.

Several of the other boys called out greetings.  Tsukishima arranged the cushions to give himself something decent to lean against, and settled Nakano down to lean against him.  

"Alright.  Now that we are all assembled, I'm sure you wanna know why we're here."

"You said this would be a chance for us to get to know each other outside of volleyball," said Tsukki.

"Indeed I did.  And to that end, I thought it would be fun to play a rousing game of..." began Kuroo.

"...Seven Minutes in Heaven!" cheered Bokuto.  Several of the boys looked at him like he was nuts, and Nakano laughed aloud.

"Speaking as the only girl here, I certainly hope not.  Unless you guys are into that kind of thing," she said with a sassy smile.  Tsukki looked at her, unsure if he should laugh or be worried.

"Boku-bro shut up.  No, we're gonna play Truth or Dare.  That way we can find out all about each other," Kuroo said with an almost sinister grin.  

"Do we have to do this?" Kenma asked, absorbed in a game on his phone.

"Yes," said Kuroo, getting up and snatching the phone out of Kenma's hands and sticking it in his pants pocket.  "You're going to interact with real people for once, dude, so get over it."  Kenma just sighed, while several of the others chuckled.

"How do we play?" asked Shoyo.

Kuroo stood in the center of the group, clearly enjoying himself.  "Simple, short stuff.  I've got a bowl with everyone's name in it on slips of paper.  When it's your turn, you pull a name from the bowl, and that person picks truth or dare.  Then you ask them their question or assign them their task."

"I know that part, Kuroo-san.  Any special rules?  What's the refusal penalty?" Shoyo said.

Kuroo's grin became downright evil.  "Glad you asked."  He strode over to the refrigerator, opened it, and pulled out a six pack of beer.  Grabbing a bowl off the counter as well, he put the six pack in the center of the group, and the bowl on top of it.  Muttering could be heard around the circle, some amused, some concerned.

"You refuse your task or question, you drink a beer," Kuroo said, smiling.

"Uh, Kuroo-san," Kageyama said, looking doubtful, "none of us here are old enough to drink."

"It's not like one beer will get you drunk, Kageyama," Lev said, laughing at the setter.

"And how would you know, anyway?" Yaku asked the boy, turning a glare on him.

"I've had one before!  I'm allowed to have one at special family gatherings." Lev looked at Yaku, then at Hinata.  "Maybe Yaku and Shoyo should be exempt.  They're so short they might get drunk from just one."  Kuroo and Kenma rolled their eyes as Yaku clobbered the tall boy sitting on his left, while the others laughed.

"It's simple!  Just don't lose.  Then you don't have to drink, Kageyama.  Let's play!" cheered Hinata.

"Oh my gosh, can you imagine the Shrimp drunk?" Tsukki whispered to Nakano.  "I'm not sure if I want to see that, or need to do everything in my power to prevent it."

"Ugh, I knew Kuroo would pull something like this,"  Nakano whispered back.  She then spoke up.  "I'd like to propose a couple extra rules, if you don't mind."

Kuroo looked over to the girl, smirking.  "Oh?  And what might those be?"

"One - no one pays more than one penalty.  Lev's right, one beer shouldn't lay anyone out, but a couple could get someone seriously sick.  I am so not cleaning up puke tonight."  Several of the boys laughed as Nakano looked around the circle at them.

"Agreed.  And, I'll add, we won't use more than this one six pack.  So at most, a little more than half of us get a little buzzed, meaning the others can make sure nothing bad happens to anyone.  Sound good?"  Kuroo added.

"Sure.  Two - no chugging, and no daring someone to chug or consume alcohol in any other way.  I don't know what else is in that fridge, but let's keep it to just this, okay?"  Nakano said.

Kuroo laughed. "You are really serious about not wanting to clean up puke.  Anything else?"

Nakano stood up.  "Yep.  You guys are all going to do something for me before we start.  Tsukki, come help me out, would ya?"  She grabbed him by the hand and pulled him up, headed for the door.  "We'll be right back.  Talk amongst yourselves."

"Hey, where..." Kuroo began, but Nakano and Tsukki were already gone.

"I bet they're gonna go make out," said Bokuto.

"What?  How is that something we have to do for her before we start the game?" Shoyo asked.

"Oooh...maybe she's gonna make out with each of us before we start!" Bokuto said.  Kuroo walked over and whacked him on the head.  "OW!"  

Kageyama looked at Hinata.  "Why did I let you talk me into this?"  he growled at him.

"Come on, Kageyama, it'll be fun!"  Shoyo replied.

The banter went on for about ten minutes before Nakano and Tsukishima returned, carrying a large pan.  "Alright guys!"  Nakano sang out as they re-entered the room.  "Before we play, everyone needs to eat a nice, big serving of strawberry shortcake."

Tsukishima's eyes were already sparkling, and most of the other boys' faces lit up as well.  Nakano fished plates and utensils out from the cabinets and began serving out the cake.

"Awesome!  That cake is delicious!" Lev said, jumping up to get a serving.

Yaku took a plate from Nakano.  "So...you prefer strawberry scented vomit?" he asked laughing.

"Actually, this is a smart idea.  Something like this in our stomachs will absorb alcohol and keep anyone who does drink from feeling the effects too fast.  Smart thinking, Nakano,"  Akaashi took a bite of his cake and smiled.  "And delicious too."

"Yeah whatever, just GIMME SOME CAKE!" yelled Bokuto, jumping up and down, causing the rest of the group to laugh.

Everyone settled in with some cake, and chatter resumed.  Tsukishima whispered to Nakano again.  "Really good idea, Roses."  He gave her a peck on the cheek.

She giggled.  "You're just happy because you know I still have another piece of this set aside for you."  To the group she said, "Feel free to help yourselves to more, that pan is still half-full."

After a little while, Kuroo finished the last bite of his cake.  "Alright," he said, "shall we begin?"  The group agreed.  "Good.  I'm going first."  He walked up and plucked a piece of paper out of the bowl, unfolding it.  His grin widened as he returned to his seat.  "Kenma, Truth or Dare?"

The boy groaned.  "Truth," he said.

Kuroo considered, then smirked.  "Ever had oral sex?" he asked.

Nakano laughed.  "Well, this went there awfully fast," she said.

"No," Kenma replied promptly, without a hint of embarrassment.  He stood up to get a piece of paper from the bowl.  

"Well he's no fun at all," Kuroo said, and the group laughed.

Kenma sat back down, a small smile on his face.  "Kuroo, Truth or Dare?"

"WHAT?" Kuroo yelled, getting up to look at the paper Kenma dropped next to the bowl.  He grimaced and showed it - his name was on it. "Dang it, can you believe this?"

"Turnabout is fair play, Kuroo-san!" sang out Hinata.  "Go for it, Kenma!"

Kenma looked at Kuroo expectantly.  "Fine, truth," said his captain.

"Have you ever paid for sex?" Kenma asked.

Kuroo blushed.  "Kenma!  What the hell kind of guy do you think I am?  No, I haven't!  How did you even come up with that question?"

"Bro, what about that girl you met outside the convention center last..." Bokuto started.

"BOKUTO!  I ONLY TALKED TO HER!  I DIDN'T PAY HER!"  Kuroo yelled.  The group broke out in laughs and oohs.

"There, I've played.  Can I have my phone back now?"  Kenma huffed.

"No," said Kuroo reaching into the bowl again. 

Nakano laughed and looked around the room.  Kageyama was blushing furiously, Hinata was bouncing in place, looking almost giddy.  Yaku was lecturing Kenma about not being so mean to his captain.  "Well, we're definitely learning a lot about people tonight," she whispered to Tsukki.  "I would have thought Hinata would be more embarrassed by this stuff."

"I'm not sure he understands what any of it means." Tsukki shot back, and Nakano chuckled.

"Hinata, Truth or Dare?" Kuroo said.

"Alright!  Dare!" Shoyo yelled, jumping up.

Kageyama groaned and put his head in his hands.  "Please don't make it something about sex..." he mumbled.

Kuroo smirked again, gesturing to the center of the circle.  "Do a striptease for us, Hinata."

"WHAT!?" yelled Lev, Kenma, and Kageyama.

"Just down to your shorts, of course.  I don't want to get to know you that well," Kuroo laughed.

Hinata colored, and looked uncertain for the first time during the game.  "Do I have to?" he asked.

"It's that, or drink a beer," Kuroo said.

"Dear god, we're doomed either way," whispered Tsukki.  

"I...I can't really dance very well..."  Hinata said softly.

Lev laughed.  "Just go for it, Shoyo!  I don't think I want to see you drunk."

Kuroo started playing some classic bump and grind music on his phone.  "Does this inspire you?" he asked Hinata, grinning.

The boy started doing his best to sway his hips in time to the music.  He kicked off his slippers, one at time.  One flew off towards the door, the other smacked Akaashi in the head, causing the group to laugh.  Somehow, the group's laughter seemed to bolster Hinata's confidence a little.  He did his best imitation of Tanaka, yanking off his tee shirt and twirling it around.

"Ugh, put it on!" yelled Tsukishima, causing more laughter.

"Shut up, Saltyshima!" Hinata yelled back, tossing the shirt at him, but hitting Nakano in the face instead.

She laughed, waving the shirt around some more.  "Woohoo!  Go for it, Shoyo!"

"What are you doing?" Tsukki asked her, a little upset.

"Having fun, you should too.  Remember, your turn is coming, gorgeous."  He stiffened, the realization of what that meant finally hitting him.  "Maybe I'll just have a beer," he said.  "Chicken?" she said with a smirk.  Tsukishima watched Hinata attempt to shake his ass, but end up pretty much just sort of wiggling around.  "I'd rather drink a beer than do that," he said, and Nakano giggled. 

Hinata slowly shimmied his shorts off, revealing a classic pair of tighty-whities underneath.  The group was doubled over with laughter.  Hinata kicked his shorts at Yaku and took a bow, receiving applause and hollers from the group.  Kageyama looked over at Nakano with a 'why the hell am I here?' look on his face.  She smiled and laughed at him.

"Is he done now?  Can he please put his clothes back on?" Kageyama pleaded.  

Nakano laughed and tossed Shoyo his tee shirt.  "Nice work, Shoyo!  Did someone have the presence of mind to film that?"

Shoyo looked at her in total shock.

"I would have if someone had given me my phone back," groused Kenma.

Shoyo yanked on his clothes, looking around to see if anyone had their phone out.  "I think you're safe, Hinata-kun," Akaashi said, throwing him his slipper.  Hinata ran to retrieve the other one.

"Alright!  I get to pick now!" Shoyo ran back to the bowl and grabbed a paper.  "Lev!  Truth or Dare!" he said, dropping the slip and returning to his place.

"Truth," replied the silver-haired boy.

"What's the most awkward date you've ever been on?" Shoyo asked.

Lev groaned.  "Aw man, Shoyo!  How did you know about this?  Can I just take a penalty?"

"I didn't know!  I just wanted to ask!  Come on, Lev, tell us!"  Shoyo sang out.

"Fine," he said, sighing heavily, "So...last year, a friend of mine at school got me to agree to go on a blind date to help him out.  He said he'd met this real hot girl who was a high schooler, and he's pretty tall too, so he said he was in high school, and he got her to agree to meet him at a café but she said only if she could bring her friend along, and he could get a friend to come along as well to make a double date, ya know?  He figured since I was tall they'd believe I was a high schooler too.  So I said yes to help a buddy out, right?  But when we got to the café, I found out my date...was..." He covered his face with his hands.  "Ugh, this is so embarrassing."

"Just say it, Lev-kun," said Akaashi.

"It was my sister," Lev said in a low voice.

The group burst out laughing.  "You went on a date with Alisa!?" Yaku said, gasping.  "Oh my god that's ridiculous!"

"And of course Alisa spilled the beans and told the girl we were middle schoolers and we got in all kinds of trouble with our parents for trying to pick up high school girls."  Lev finished his tale in a rush.  "It was a disaster,"  he muttered. 

The group continued to play, doing ridiculous things and telling crazy stories about themselves.  Even Kageyama eventually seemed to finally loosen up and start to enjoy himself a little.  Only Bokuto chose to pay a penalty, when Yaku dared him to either bite or kiss Akaashi's butt.  Akaashi was profoundly grateful to his captain for choosing to have a drink instead.  Sipping on his beer, Bokuto grinned as he looked into the bowl, seeing only one paper left.

"Well, I guess I know who I've got!  Tsukki, my man, Truth or Dare?" the ace called out.

Tsukishima sighed.  Of all people, I have to get Bokuto, he thought.  Then again, Kuroo would be worse.  I can only imagine what he'd have me do on a dare...  

"Tsuuuukkiiiii" sang out Bokuto.

"Dare," Tsukishima said unthinking, and then immediately facepalmed, "NO!...I meant..."

"NOPE!" yelled out Kuroo, laughing wildly, "You said dare, you stick with it."  Tsukishima put his head in his hands.

Bokuto grinned.  "Make out with your girl there, dude, while me, Kuroo and Hinata snap a picture and send it to our team group chats.  I'm sure we've all got one."

"Nice one, Boku-bro!" Kuroo said, readying his camera.

"Thank you, Kuroo-bro," replied Bokuto as he too got his phone ready.

"What have I done?" Tsukishima groaned out.  

Nakano chuckled. "Well this is an unexpected turn of events."  

"What's the big deal?  Everyone knows they're dating." Kenma looked at the pair next to him.

"Yeah, but Tsukki knows we won't let this go unless we see some tongue action.  No ordinary kiss will do, lovebirds.  We wanna see you get it on."  Kuroo wiggled his eyebrows suggestively.

"It's just one beer...it won't be that bad..." Tsukishima said.

Hinata crossed his arms, and scoffed.  "He won't do it.  He doesn't want everyone to see what a lousy kisser he is.  He's too embarrassed for everyone to find out he can't even properly kiss his girlfriend!"  Kageyama snorted, covering his mouth.

Nakano watched Tsukki's face change.  Nice job, Shoyo, she thought, tell him he can't do something, and watch him prove you wrong.  She turned a little and smirked at her boyfriend.  "Are you just gonna let that slide?" she whispered.

He reached up and gently took her chin in his fingers.  "Ready, Roses?" he whispered, "Let's put on a show."  The pair moved together slowly, letting their tongues come together visibly into a deep kiss.  His hand slid into her hair as her arms wrapped around his neck, pulling him down towards her.  The group went crazy, with lots of photos being snapped.  His other arm went around her back.  The couple seemed content to stay lost in their kiss.

"Don't they need to breathe once in a while?" Kenma asked, staring at the pair.

"I don't know, Hinata-kun, Tsukishima seems to be doing just fine at this," Akaashi said with a smirk.

"Yeah, I knew that would work," Shoyo laughed as he snapped another picture.

"Should we get a bucket of water?" Yaku snickered.

Kuroo leaned over towards the pair.  "Okay, lovebirds, we got it.  You can stop now."

Nakano pulled away from the kiss and looked at the bedhead.  "Shut up, Kuroo," she said, and resumed kissing her boyfriend.

Kuroo broke into his hyena laugh, and Nakano and Tsukishima stopped kissing and laughed along with him.  "What do you guys say, another round?"  Nekoma's captain asked.  The group agreed and Kuroo reset the little bowl.  "Tsukishima, you get to go first, dude."  The group continued to play, and indulge in some more strawberry shortcake.  

Eventually, it was Yaku's turn to pick from the bowl.  "Kageyama, Truth or Dare?" the libero asked.

"Truth," the setter said.

"Tell us about your first kiss," Yaku said.

Kageyama blushed intensively.

"I don't think he's had it yet!" Shoyo laughed.

"I have too, dumbass!"  Kageyama snapped back, and then immediately covered his mouth.

"Then let's hear about it, dude!  Was it a sexy kiss, or a sweet one?" Kuroo prompted.

Kageyama looked at Nakano with concern in his eyes.  He started to reach toward the beers at the center.  "I think I'd better..."

"Hey," Nakano called out.  "It's okay, Kags.  Just say it."

He looked at her wide-eyed, sitting back in his place.  He took a deep breath.  "My first kiss was with Nakano," he said simply.  

Tsukishima stiffened.  Nakano took his hand and squeezed it. "This was before Tsukki and I were dating, of course," she said, as the group looked back and forth between the two setters.  

"Oooooh, drama!" Lev sang out, breaking the tension and causing the group to laugh.

"Actually, there wasn't much drama to it at all," Kageyama said, looking up at Nakano with a small smile.  "It felt like kissing my sister."  Nakano laughed at the memory of their attempted kiss.

"Wow, are you that bad at kissing, Nakano?" Shoyo asked.

"She's an excellent kisser," Tsukishima said, pulling Nakano in closer to him, "but only for me," he finished with a smirk, kissing her lips again.

"Awww kissy kissy, aren't they so cute?" Bokuto gushed.

"So it doesn't bother you that your girlfriend has kissed one of your teammates?" Yaku asked Tsukishima.

Tsukishima shrugged.  "They've known each other for years, long before we were all on the same team.  They're like brother and sister, and they've never dated.  Besides, that happened before we were dating, so why should it bother me?"  Yaku chuckled at his response and the game moved on, as Kageyama picked a paper from the bowl.

Tsukishima snuggled close to Nakano, whispering in her ear.  "You're all mine now, Roses."

She giggled, as she always did when he claimed her as his own.  "You okay?" she whispered.

"Sure," he whispered back, "I can almost imagine the awkwardness."

"Yeah, it was pretty funny.  We both laughed so hard at the whole thing we almost fell over."  Nakano cuddled against him.  "Thanks," she said simply.

"Mine," he whispered in her ear, making her giggle again.

Meanwhile the game had come around to Kuroo again, who waved his paper triumphantly.  "I got the Pretty Setter!  Truth or Dare, Nakano?" he asked.

"Dare," Nakano replied.

Tsukishima looked at her.  Man, I hope we're not going to regret this, he thought.

Kuroo laughed, but this time it was a wicked cackle.  "Oh boy, I was hoping you'd choose that.  I've got something special for you to do."  Tsukishima's eyes hardened as he watched the captain go over to the refrigerator and take something out of the freezer.  Glancing over, he saw Kageyama's eyes were equally intense.  Good, he thought, if this is something too disgusting, I know the King will back me up in putting a stop to it.

Kuroo presented a little white wrapped package to Nakano.  "Nakano, I want you to eat this popsicle," he said, a sexy smirk on his face.

"What's in it?" she asked, taking the item.

"It's just an ordinary cherry popsicle, I promise.  Nothing has been done to it.  Just eat it for us, okay?"  Kuroo settled himself down, staring at her intensely.

Nakano unwrapped the popsicle, noting the shape.  She threw Kuroo a look that spoke volumes.

"Or you can drink a beer," he said, "but I'm really hoping you don't."

Nakano looked at Tsukki.  "You okay with this?" she asked.

"Why?  What are you going to do?" he asked, concern in his voice.

"Me?  I'm going to eat a popsicle.  But what they think, that I don't control," she said, glancing around the circle, then focusing back on Tsukki "so if you're not okay with this, say so.  I'll take a penalty."  Her eyes were sparkling mischievously.

Tsukishima grinned.  "Go ahead.  After all, you're just eating a popsicle."  Oh my gosh, what are you going to do, Roses?  You've got something up your sleeve.

She scooted back away from Tsukishima, still facing him.  Nakano fixed her gaze directly on Tsukishima, and began eating the popsicle, just as she normally might.  It was already beginning to melt, so she had to lick all around it and on her hand a little bit to stop things from getting too messy.  She then started applying her lips to the sides and top, sucking on it to keep it from dripping further.  But she was careful to do nothing deliberately suggestive or lewd.  She was just eating a popsicle.

Tsukishima blushed.  She's just eating a popsicle, she's just eating a popsicle, he kept repeating in his head.  It didn't help.  Crap, this is turning me on.  Kuroo, you are such a jerk.

"Nope," Kageyama said, shutting his eyes.  "Not watching this.  And neither are you," he said, reaching out blindly to try to cover Hinata's eyes.

"Hey, quit it!" Hinata yelled as Kageyama's fingers poked him in the face.  "What's the big deal?  She's just eating a popsicle!"

Kenma looked at him.  "True, but some of these guys are probably imagining her doing that to something else, Shoyo."

Hinata pondered that.  "Like what?  I mean I guess it...oh," the boy said as the realization hit him.  "But wait a minute, that's Nakano!  She's like our sister!  Don't think like that about her!"  Hinata blushed as he discovered that now that he'd thought of that, he couldn't un-think it.  He closed his eyes as well.

"I'm not," Kenma said, "but I'm sure Kuroo is."

Kuroo was staring at Nakano, his jaw going a little slack.  She's taken me completely literally and is just eating the popsicle, he thought.  She's not trying to make it sexy, but...dammit, I'm such a dirty bastard.  I can't help it.  Tsukishima, you are one lucky guy. 

"Hey, come on, no fair!" Bokuto whined, "I can't see anything!"

"Oh, sorry, Bokuto-san," Nakano said, lying back flat on the floor, continuing to eat the popsicle.  "Does this help?"  Her shirt rode up a bit as she lay back, exposing her stomach a little.

"Uh...yeah," Bokuto said, downing the last of his beer.

Tsukishima pulled his eyes away from Nakano to glance at the other boys in the room.  Kageyama and Hinata had their eyes closed, but the others were watching in various states of amusement or fascination, with the exception of Kenma, who was glaring at Kuroo.  Probably just wants his phone back, he thought.  He looked back at Nakano, who was still calmly eating the popsicle in a normal fashion.  She caught his eyes, and slowly closed hers.  He got the message, and closed his eyes.  Here it comes, he thought.

Tsukishima heard a small sound, kind of a like a crunch, followed by loud groans from a few of the boys in the room.  He opened his eyes to see that Nakano had bitten the popsicle in half, and was now crunching on it.  He covered his mouth with his hand to keep from laughing out loud.

"Oh man, Nakano, that was cruel!"  Kuroo was visibly shuddering.

Nakano sat up, turning to the captain.  "What?" she said, all innocence.  "I'm just eating the popsicle."  She held it out towards Tsukki.  "Want the other half?" she said with a grin.  He smirked at her and accepted it, yanking the remaining piece off the stick with his mouth and handing the stick to Kuroo.  The bedheaded captain shuddered again as he took it.

Akaashi laughed.  "They got you, Kuroo-san."  The group all laughed as well and began talking about who among them had the most dirty mind.  Kuroo seemed to be the crowd favorite.

Bokuto made a show of getting up and stretching.  "Well, I think I'm ready to call it a night, what about you guys?"

"Probably a good idea," said Yaku, "it is getting a little late."

"Kuroo-san," Nakano said sweetly, "it would have been my turn, and since you had such a fun task for me, I want to give you one."

He arched a brow at her.  "Oh?"

She handed him a dirty plate.  "Wash the dishes."

He threw his head back and laughed.  "With pleasure, madam," he said with a bow.  Kenma chuckled.  "Just for that, you can give me a hand," he said, pointing at his setter.  Kenma sighed and joined him at the sink, yanking his phone out of his captain's back pocket and putting it in his own.

Slowly but surely the boys helped clean up, rebuilding the couches and getting the dishes taken care of.  As the work got done, they joked and laughed with one another about their evening.  Kageyama wandered up to Tsukishima, pulling him aside.

"What can I do for you, Your Majesty?" Tsukishima said with a smirk.

The setter sighed.  "Look, I just want to make sure you and Nakano are okay after what you heard tonight."

"What?  That you guys kissed once?  I wasn't entirely surprised.  I think I've even got a reasonably good idea about when it happened.  Why are you all worried about this?"

"Because I promised her I wouldn't cause any trouble in her relationship with you.  So if this was going to be trouble, I wanted to make sure you took whatever bug you had up your ass about it out on me and not her."  Kageyama stared him straight in the eyes.  "As long as you're not bothered by it, then we're done here." 

Tsukishima chuckled.  "You really are like a brother to her," he said, no hint of sarcasm in his voice.  

"Yep," Kageyama said, with a small smile, "and she is really crazy about you."  He headed towards the door. "See ya back in the room, Tsukishima."

Tsukishima nodded.  So it's possible for me to spend an evening in the same room with the King and not get totally pissed off, he thought.  I know that will make Roses happy.  

Kuroo was the last to take his leave.  "You still need the room tonight, Nakano?" he asked the girl.

"Yep, still gotta do my legs.  Good thing I'm not on food detail tomorrow!" She yawned.  "I couldn't handle another pre-dawn wake up call."

"Hey," he said, giving her a genuine smile, "thanks for being such a good sport.  I...uh...hope I didn't upset you."  He rubbed the back of his neck, looking a little chagrined.

She laughed.  "Whatever are you talking about Kuroo?  We just played a nice game to get to know one another.  I had a lot of fun."

"Me too," said Tsukishima, walking up and putting his arm around Nakano, "but next time maybe keep your popsicles to yourself, Kuroo-san," the blonde said with a smirk.

He laughed.  "Behave yourselves, kids.  I'll see you both tomorrow." 

"Night, Kuroo," Nakano called as he headed out the door.

Nakano wrapped her arms around Tsukki and pulled him close.  "So..."

"Roses," he said, breathing in her scent.  "You need to get your legs done and get to bed.  You've got to be exhausted."

She yawned again.  "You're not wrong.  Give me a hand?"

"Mhmmm," he said, stifling his own yawn.  "And then we both need a good night's sleep, to prepare ourselves for what's going to happen tomorrow."

"Why?  What's happening tomorrow?"

"A whole lot of people at this camp are going to see a picture of us on their phone, remember?"

"Aw crap," she said, "We're doomed." 

Chapter Text

"Oh my gosh, can you believe this?"

"Who took it?  Do you know?"

"Hinata was the one who sent it, so I guess it was him?  I wonder how he managed to get a shot like that..."

"Wow that is some serious tongue action happening there..."

"Hey!" Nakano felt a kick to her rear and her eyes flew open to see a phone shoved in her face.  She focused on it, seeing a picture of herself and Tsukishima, Tsukki's tongue slipping into her mouth as they began to kiss.  "He helps you with your leg therapy, hunh?" Mako said to the still half-asleep girl, who groaned.

"So I guess you all got the picture from last night," Nakano said, pushing the phone away and sitting up.

Eri plopped herself down on Nakano's futon, practically in her lap.  "Okay, spill."

Nakano looked at her.  "Spill what?  You already knew about Tsukishima and I.  What's to spill?"

"Arrrghhh!  Why is this picture currently making the rounds on the group chats of all five of the teams?  Who took it?  How did they get it?"  Eri babbled.

"And how far did that go?" Mako asked with a wicked grin.

"It was a kiss, Mako, that's all,"  Nakano said, still too sleepy to even be embarrassed.

"I'd call that a pretty impressive kiss," Kiyoko said, giving the girl a sly grin.

Nakano blushed at last.  "Well, yeah, it kinda was.  But I promise Kiyoko-senpai, nothing else happened besides a kiss."  She glanced at Eri.  "After all, there were 8 other boys in the room at the time," she said with a grin.

"WHAT!!??  SPILL!!!"  Eri nearly exploded.

Nakano laughed.  "Alright, alright.  A bunch of the guys got together last night to play Truth or Dare.  Kuroo-san organized it with some of the boys who've been doing individual training together in Gym #3 in the evenings.  We just wanted to get to know each other better outside of volleyball."

"I'd say you and Tsukishima know each other pretty well at this point," Mako said.  Nakano chucked a pillow at her.

"So who was there?" Kiyoko asked.  

"Let's see...Kuroo, Kenma, Yaku and Lev from Nekoma...Me, Tsukki, Hinata and Kageyama from Karasuno, and Akaashi and Bokuto from Fukurodani."  Nakano counted off on her fingers.

"Oh my gosh, you played Truth or Dare with Bokuto and Kuroo?  That must have been crazy!"  Eri said, looking amazed.

"So how did this picture end up happening?" Mako asked.

"Well, Bokuto dared Tsukki to let him, Kuroo and Hinata take a picture of us making out and send it to the team group chats,"  Nakano laughed recalling how badly Tsukki wanted to avoid it.

"And Tsukishima went along with that?  I can't believe it," Kiyoko said, "He barely holds your hand at practices.  How'd they convince him to do this?"

"You can thank Hinata for that.  Tsukki was about to refuse to do it when Shoyo starting making all kinds of noise about how he was afraid to kiss me in front of people because he was a lousy kisser.  Never tell Tsukishima he can't do something...it irritates him even more than the thought of PDA," Nakano chuckled.

The girls laughed.  "I'd call this more than just a little PDA," Kiyoko said, "And you said Kuroo and Bokuto sent pictures as well?  So there are more of these out there, hmm?  I'll have to be sure to collect the set."  Nakano rolled her eyes at her.

"Wait a minute...he doesn't even hold your hand at practices?  Why not?" Eri asked, sounding a little sad.

Nakano smiled.  "That's our choice, Eri.  Generally Tsukki and I try not to be too romantic at practice because we're supposed to be working.  We promised our captain not to let that sort of thing interfere with training time."

"Oh that captain of yours...the incredibly delicious Daichi-san..." Eri fell back, looking enraptured.

"Looks like you guys are plenty affectionate outside of practices, however," Mako said, smiling at the strawberry blonde.

The girls gathered their toiletries and headed for the bathroom, teasing Nakano as much as possible along the way.

Meanwhile, in the Karasuno room, Tsukishima was enduring his own inquisition.

The boys had done pretty much the same thing as the girls, awakening Tsukishima with the picture and teasing him mercilessly, asking rather cruder questions than the ones Nakano had to endure.  Kageyama immediately leapt to Nakano's defense, and therefore Tsukishima's, if only indirectly.  

Tanaka and Nishinoya soon began a dramatic recreation of their idea of what led up to the taking of the photograph, with Tanaka playing the part of Tsukishima.  

"Ooooh Tsukki, I'm so happy to be here in Tokyo with you, my love," Noya squeaked out in a voice at least an octave higher than Nakano's.

"Yeah, babe, it's awesome.  We should live here someday, babe," Tanaka rumbled.

The rest of the team was cracking up and yelling advice to the thespians.

"Does Tsukishima actually call her 'babe', do you think?" Ennoshita asked Hinata, laughing.

"I don't think so," the boy replied, "It doesn't seem like something he'd say."

"Ooooh Tsukki, can't we run away someplace where we can just be together, alone?" Nishinoya cooed.

"Come on, babe, let's go hide out in a classroom and I'll show you how much I love you,"  Tanaka said, grabbing Noya by the shoulders.

Tsukishima was holding his head, trying to figure out how he was going to survive this.  Yamaguchi came up beside him.  "Are you okay, Tsukki?"

Tsukishima gave him a look that spoke volumes.  "Yeah, I guess that was a dumb question," Tadashi said, rubbing the back of his neck.

"Ooooh Tsukki, kiss me please!" Noya threw his head back dramatically.

"Anything for you, babe," Tanaka replied as he and Noya began wiggling their tongues at one another.  

Tsukishima groaned, thinking that surely the gods must hate him.  What was I thinking?  I should never have gone to that stupid get together, he chided himself.  No, I should never have listened to that stupid shrimp Hinata.  I should have just taken the damn penalty.  Spending an hour or so on a beer buzz in the company of my girlfriend wouldn't have been so bad.  He paused, considering that.  Although, if I'd been caught drinking, that would have been a hell of a lot worse than anything that can come from this.  Ugh, how long is this gonna go on?

He looked up just in time to see a little bit of payback.  Tanaka and Noya got too enthusiastic with their mock kissing, and managed to touch their tongues together, resulting in a great deal of screaming, spitting, and attempting to clean their tongues with their fingers.  The team turned their attention to mocking the pair of second-years.

Tsukishima chuckled.  He heard a scoffing noise next to him, and looked over to see Kageyama smirking at his two senpais.  "Serves them right," he said.  Man, what has happened to me, Tsukishima thought.  First, I allow pictures of me kissing my girlfriend to be sent to group chats, and now the King is apparently sticking up for me.  I think the world has gone insane.

Daichi finally waded in to break things up.  "Alright, that's enough.  We need to get to breakfast.  Let's get ready, guys."  He turned to Kageyama and Tsukishima.  "You two, come with me."

The first years looked at each other, and then followed their captain over to a corner of the room.  "Now," Daichi said, looking stern, "explain what happened."

"Kuroo-san invited those of us who've been working with him during individual training to get together last night to get to know each other better outside of volleyball,"  Tsukishima began.

"So Nekoma's captain started all this, hmmm?  Okay, continue." Daichi said.

"We played Truth or Dare, sir." Tsukishima said.

"I see.  And I'm guessing this was some kind of dare?  Let people take pictures of you making out with your girlfriend?" Daichi said, trying hard not to smirk at the boy as Tsukishima nodded, "Who dared you?"

"Bokuto-san dared him, sir." Kageyama said.

"So Fukurodani's captain was there too, eh?  At least I know you're training with some good people, Tsukishima.  Kageyama, I don't think you've been training with them...how did you wind up at this event?"  Daichi asked the setter.

"Hinata invited me, sir.  He's the one who took the picture and sent it to the group chat." Kageyama replied.  "Are we in trouble, Captain?"

Daichi gave the boys a small smile.  "We'll see.  Is there anything else that happened at this gathering that I should know about?"  

The two boys looked at each other, silently agreeing that the captain really didn't need to know about the penalty, especially since no one from Karasuno had actually had any beer.  "No, sir," they said simultaneously.

"Good," he said, "And no, you're not in trouble.  I'm sure you'll face punishment enough, however, Tsukishima."  Daichi gave the boy a wicked smirk, and walked away.

The blonde began to sweat.

🏐🏐🏐

Tsukishima sat beneath a large tree, almost shaking with anger.  Daichi's prediction had been all too correct, and the blonde boy really didn't know how much more he could take.

Breakfast had been a nightmare.  From the moment he'd set foot outside the Karasuno room, he'd been surrounded by catcalls, wolf whistles, and various taunts and jibes.  Most fell into one of two categories - either mocking him for 'getting caught' with a girl, or praising him for 'getting some' from a girl.  The team closed ranks around him and Nakano - but they could only do so much.  He'd just shut himself down, trying desperately to ignore everyone and hoping it would all go away soon.  It didn't.  He'd sat down across from Nakano, who was blushing at all the commotion, but somehow had a smile on her face.  She'd tried to talk to him, but he'd remained largely silent, not trusting himself to say anything.  She gave up after a little bit, the smile fading from her face, soon to be replaced by the fake one she used whenever she tried to hide what she was really feeling as people talked to her.  Watching that play out had only added to his anger and frustration.

He'd hoped things would get better once the games started for the day.  Nakano was acting as stand-in manager for both Fukurodani and Nekoma, so she was often busy and far from the Karasuno boys.  He kept his distance from her, praying that people would just move on and find something else to obsess about.

He hadn't counted on the opposing teams using this whole thing to their advantage.

Every time he was at the net, regardless of who his opponent was, they made kissy faces at him.

Every. Single. Time.

It took every ounce of willpower he had to not completely explode on the court.  He looked daggers at each person he faced across the net.  His entire body was tense, and his playing suffered.  He tried to refocus himself on the game, but found himself frequently distracted by thoughts of literally beating the person opposite him.  By the time lunch was called, he'd had enough.  He ran the hill with his team and as soon as that was done, he took off in a random direction, finally stopping in the shade of a large tree.  He sat there, just trying to regain something resembling composure.

This is why I tried to avoid this, he thought to himself.  You let people get too close and they will do crap like this to you.  Why did I think this bunch would be any different?  Ugh, I am so fucking weak.  And now, everyone knows it, and is taking advantage of it.  He stared up through the tree branches at the blue sky.  And how was Nakano smiling through all this bullshit, like it didn't even affect her?  Why the hell did I ever let Kuroo talk me into going to that stupid lounge?  

He buried his face in hands.  "Ugh!  Stupid Kuroo...stupid Bokuto...stupid Hinata...stupid Nakano!"  He groaned.

"Oh, I see."  Her voice was pained.

Shit, he thought, looking up to see Nakano.  She was carrying a basket, and the look on her face was a mix of shock and hurt.

"No...I don't...it...I just...arrrghhh!!" Tsukishima buried his face again.  "That wasn't how I meant it."

"Oh?" she replied, setting the basket down next to him and standing over him, "How did you mean it then, Tsukki?  Because it sounded to me like maybe you were regretting having a girlfriend in that moment."

He gritted his teeth.  Anger and shame flooded through him.  He really didn't mean it the way it sounded...but at the same time, he knew she wasn't wrong.  That thought had gone through his mind.  It was too much for him, he lashed out at the only person around.  "DAMMIT!  How did you have a smile on your face this morning? They were mocking us!  Making fun of us for being so stupid and weak!  How the hell did that not upset you?" he yelled at the girl.

He looked up to meet her eyes and started backwards in shock, his head hitting lightly against the tree trunk.  Her bright blue eyes fairly blazed with fury and pain.  "You think this was bad?  You know nothing." Her voice was tight, controlled.  She was holding back her emotions, and he knew it.  It frightened him.  "For three years I've endured far worse.  I've been mocked relentlessly.  People have run from me, fearing I was diseased.  People have called me stupid, disgusting, and damaged.  People have pitied me.  I've been made to feel I was less than a human being...and I had to learn to defend it!"  She was yelling now, also no longer able to control her anger.  "I had to defend this miserable existence I was forced into!  I had to learn to smile at the world and pretend none of it hurt because it was the only way I could go on!  I HAD TO DEFEND THESE," she slapped her legs hard, "when they were goddamn useless!"  

She took a deep, ragged breath.  He stared at her in shock.  When she resumed speaking, her voice was once again locked into a semblance of calm, but her eyes were as wild as ever.  "The only thing that kept me from going mad was the knowledge that I was working on making them better.  That I was trying to become whole again.  That one day, I'd be able to be in a room and not a single person would stare at me for being a freak."

Hot tears began to slide down Nakano's face as her eyes locked directly onto Tsukishima's.  "You asked me how I could smile this morning.  You said they were making fun of us for being weak.  I disagree.  They were making fun of us because they were jealous.  Because we have something they don't.  Was I embarrassed?  Yeah.  We let them see an intimate moment, something that should have been just between us.  Was that stupid?  Maybe.  But I could smile because I'm proud to be your girlfriend, and because I really care about you." Her voice now hitched with the beginnings of sobs.  "Because for once I was being made fun of for something I am truly happy to have.  So I don't care if they think I'm stupid or weak for that.  And I don't regret it.  And I would have hoped you'd be happy about it too."

Tsukishima's eyes widened.  His brain was simply not working.  It was all too much for him to take in.  He just sat there, feeling numb.  I really am not the best when it comes to emotions.  His own thought on the matter took him by surprise.

Nakano took several deep breaths, and dashed her tears away.  "I'm sorry," she said, "we're probably both a little too upset right now to deal with this properly.  I guess it's good that we won't be spending any time together tonight after all."

"W-what?" he managed to stammer out.

"The coaches have arranged for the managers to have a ladies' night out tonight, to thank us for all the hard work we've put in this week." The words were now coming out of her emotionlessly, as if she'd already poured out everything she'd had inside.  "We're leaving right after regular play today, so I won't be at dinner and I won't be coming to Gym #3 tonight."  She gestured to the basket.  "There's food in there, please eat.  You need to keep up your energy to continue playing.  All of the captains told me they intend to put a stop to the teasing, so the afternoon should go a lot better.  I'm sorry I yelled at you, Tsukki.  Maybe I'll see you when we get back, huh?"  She turned and started walking back.  

He wanted to call to her.  But his mind was completely shut down.  He simply watched as she went back inside without looking back.  He reached inside the basket, eating something he'd pulled out without really being aware of what it was.  Her words had completely scrambled his perception of what had happened to him that morning.  He continued to eat mechanically, while his mind tried to sort out everything that had happened.  One thought kept returning to him, over and over.  How did I not see that?  How could I have been so stupid?

🏐🏐🏐

Tsukishima went through the afternoon games on something like autopilot.  He played when asked to, but it was obvious to everyone around him that his mind was elsewhere.  The teasing had stopped, and a few people even tried to engage him in conversation, perhaps to make amends.  He barely noticed, completely lost in his own thoughts.

He watched Nakano go about her work.  Her forced smile was plastered on her face, it never left.  I've never seen her use that face for so long, he thought.  She's smiling and even laughing and joking with people, but none of it is real.  None of it is touching her eyes.  But I don't think anyone else has noticed but me.  He watched her as often as he could.  Rarely, she would meet his gaze.  When she did, she would nod in acknowledgement.  Nothing more.  

She still joined them for their penalty runs.  At first, he kept away from her.  She didn't seem to mind.  Later in the day, he would walk over to run next to her.  It didn't seem to make a difference.  As soon as the run was finished, she would go right back inside to assume her duties again.  He wanted to speak to her, but no words would come.

He was in the bullpen, watching Nakano.  Coach Ukai had pulled him out for this set, replacing him with Narita.  The girl was currently replenishing the drinks and towels for Nekoma.  I knew there was pain in there, and I knew she'd been through a lot, he thought.  But I never knew it was so intense.  And I was upset over some embarrassing photos?  God, I'm such an asshole.  How in the hell do I fix this?  A chilling thought ran through his brain.  What if she doesn't want to fix it anymore?

"Hey Tsukki?" Yamaguchi startled the boy out of his thoughts.  "What's going on with Naka-chan?  She looks...weird.  I mean, she seems like she's fine, but her expression looks..."

"Fake?" Tsukishima supplied.

"Yeah, like she's just going through the motions."  

Damn Tadashi, you are a much better friend to her than I've been.  Why the hell isn't she with you?  "We...fought.  Like a real, no kidding screaming match.  I've really screwed up here, Tadashi."  He looked into his friend's face.  

Yamaguchi was shocked by what he saw in Tsukki's eyes.  His friend, who had always been so good at hiding what he felt, was very obviously hurting.  "Tsukki?  What happened?"

"Well, to keep it short, I think I made her feel like...like...maybe I'm not happy having a girlfriend."  Tsukki's voice dropped to a whisper.  "Like maybe, I didn't want..." He choked up, unable to continue.

"Is that how you feel?" Tadashi asked softly.

"NO!" Tsukki barked out, making quite a few people turn to look at him.

"Well then, you need to talk to her and tell her that.  Nakano really cares about you, Tsukki.  I don't think she'll give up on you so easily.  But you've got to stop hiding how you feel from her."  Tadashi looked at his friend with a great deal of sympathy.  Two very strong-willed, passionate people, he thought, trying to make a relationship work.  It's not going to be easy on them, but it'll never be boring either. 

"I know.  But...I don't know what to say.  And right now, I think she might be too mad under all that fake smiling to listen."  

"Then give her time to calm down.  Besides, it'll give you time to figure out exactly what you need to say.  But when you get the chance - just say it."

"Yeah.  I guess you're right, Tadashi.  Thanks."  

As Tsukishima was thanking his old friend, there came a loud squeak of shoes and a sudden thump.  The boys looked up to see Nekoma's captain on the floor, groaning.  Nakano was running, grabbing her medical bag and urging Kuroo to stay down.

"What happened?" she asked, plopping herself down next to the boy and shooing the others away.

"It was a long rally, with a couple of diving saves.  I think he must have slipped on sweat on the floor.  Is he okay?"  Kenma said.

"Kuroo, what hurts?" Nakano asked.

"I'm fine, quit worrying about me, girlie," the bed-head replied, trying to stand up.

"Nope," the girl said, pushing him down.  "You get two choices, my friend.  You can tell me what hurts, or I can pull you to the side for a full exam.  That was a hard hit.  I heard it, but I didn't see it.  So I need you to be honest with me and tell me what hurts or I will literally check every single part of you."

"Every part?" he asked with a suggestive smirk.

The look she gave him brooked no nonsense, and there was nothing even remotely flirty about it.  "A full exam will take at least an hour.  What's it going to be, Kuroo?"

He sighed, knowing he wasn't going to win this one.  "My left wrist hurts a little, but the thing that hurts the most at the moment is my right ankle.  I think I must have twisted it a bit when I went down."

Nakano pressed her lips together.  "Okay, this is going to take a few minutes.  Kenma, Inuoka, can you please help Kuroo over to the side?  Bleachers, a chair, just make sure he sits on something.  Don't let him put any weight on his right foot." She turned to yell across the room.  "Eri!  We need the floor cleaned over here so no one else gets hurt!"  

Nekoma resumed play as Nakano looked over Kuroo's injuries.  "Let's start with the wrist.  How does it feel now?"  She began gently manipulating his wrist, assessing his reactions.

"Actually, it's already feeling pretty good.  I must have hit it oddly when I fell."

"Mmmm.  You're not showing any signs of pain, so I think it's probably fine.  If it does start to hurt again, please don't ignore it, okay?  I won't be around tonight for individual practice, so I'm counting on you to be smart about this."  She moved to begin looking at his ankle, removing his shoe and sock.

"How come you're not coming tonight?"

"The managers are being treated to a ladies' night out by the coaches."

"Sounds like fun.  But you don't seem very happy about it...urgh," the boy grunted as she manipulated his ankle.  

"Was that sharp pain, or just kind of uncomfortable?"

"More the uncomfortable type."

"Hmmm.  Well, I think you're lucky.  It's not swelling, so hopefully it's just annoyed at the mistreatment it received.  I'm going to wrap it just in case, because something tells me ordering you to stay off it will be pointless."  She gave him a grin.  "Keep the wrapping on until you're done playing for the day.  Unwrap it before bed.  If it starts to hurt, or seems to be swollen, tell Coach Nekomata and get it properly looked at, okay?"

"I promise to follow your instructions to the letter, Dr. Nakano...on one condition."

"And what might that be?"

"Tell me what's wrong."

She looked him in the eye.  "What makes you think something is wrong?"

He looked back.  "Give me a little credit, okay?  I may be a terrible flirt and have a dirty mind, but I can tell when a friend is upset.  Is it about all the teasing today?"

She sighed, wrapping his ankle carefully.  "Only indirectly.  Tsukki and I had a fight...and I yelled at him pretty badly.  I lost my temper at him, Kuroo, and it was pretty unfair of me.  I didn't give him the chance to really express how he was feeling.  But the really bad part is...I'm still mad.  I'm still upset.  I don't think I can talk to him again yet without risking losing it."

Kuroo smiled gently.  "Well, there's one thing I can tell you, Nakano," he looked across the room at the blonde middle blocker, who was still staring at the girl, "that boy is crazy about you."

Nakano snorted.  "Kuroo, you barely know Tsukki.  How are you so sure he's crazy about me?"

"I know that look he's got on his face.  I keep hoping to find someone who gives me that look."  Kuroo's voice was soft, and held just a hint of longing.  "When you're ready to talk to him, I bet you anything he'll be ready to listen."

Nakano looked up at the dark-haired boy to see him smiling at her.  He gestured with his chin across the room.  Nakano looked to see Tsukishima staring right at her.  She felt a blush creep across her cheeks, and for just a moment, a small, real smile played on her lips.  She looked away, turning her attention back to Kuroo's injuries.

Across the room, Tsukishima hoped that what he thought he'd seen wasn't just in his imagination.  If that was a smile, he thought, then maybe I've not completely screwed this up.

🏐🏐🏐

By the late afternoon, the managers were all dressed casually and wandering in the shopping district near Shinzen High School.  Mako, being the one most familiar with the area, took the lead to guide her friends to do a little souvenir and window shopping before heading to the dinner the coaches had arranged for them.

"Hey, can we visit that beauty shop over there?  I've been needing to get some more eyeliner..."

"Oooh, look at that dress!  Let's check out that boutique."

"Oh my gosh!  Is that a cat café?  I've always wanted to go to one of those!"

"Girls, please!" Mako cried, trying to keep everyone from scattering to the four winds.  "We really should stay together.  It's much safer that way."  She was greeted with a chorus of complaints.

"Ugh, fine.  At the very least, no one should go anywhere alone.  What about this?  Our dinner reservation is in 2 hours.  Let's meet at the cat café over there in 1 hour.  That will give us time to visit the café for a drink and still make our dinner reservation on time.  Sound good?"  Mako proposed.  The girls readily agreed.

Nakano decided to join Eri and Kaori as they went over to a little souvenir shop that had a wide variety of adorable gifts and knick-knacks.  She smiled and laughed with the two girls, checking out all the cute things the shop had to offer.  At least, on the outside.

I haven't felt this bad since before I joined the team, Nakano thought to herself.  I can't believe I lost my control like that.  Kei wasn't anywhere near ready for that kind of onslaught.  It wouldn't surprise me if it took several days before he's even ready to talk to me.  She smiled at Eri as she held up a pair of Demon Slayer earrings, telling the pretty dark-haired girl that they were perfect for her.  Damn, I swear he's like a truth drug to me.  Whenever he's around, I can't seem to stop myself from pouring out whatever I'm feeling inside, no matter how painful or toxic.  The look on his face when I left him at the tree...he looked like I'd absolutely broken him.  She found herself looking at a pair of earrings shaped like acoustic guitars.  God, how I love his singing voice.  A small smile crept on to her lips again, quickly gone as a darker thought invaded her mind.  I may never hear it again now.  What if it was too much?  What if he really is thinking he'd be better off without a girlfriend that causes such trouble in his life?

"Nakano?  Are you okay?" Eri's voice cut through Nakano's internal musings.

The strawberry blonde looked up, a smile once again plastered on her face.  "Yes, of course!  Just thinking these were cute," she said, returning the guitar earrings to the rack.  "Are you girls ready to go?"

The three girls headed on to the next shop, chatting and laughing.  Nakano tried to settle her mind.  We were both upset, and both blurted out things in the moment we probably shouldn't have.  Once we both settle down, we can talk it out, and see where things stand.  That's all I can do right now.  She tried hard to put herself back into the moment, to be fully present shopping with her friends.  But her thoughts kept wandering back to the blonde middle blocker.  It seemed as though every shop they visited had something that brought him right back to the front of her thoughts.  

Eri and Kaori couldn't help but notice that their friend seemed distracted and distant.  Every attempt to ask her what was wrong was deflected or dodged.  When Nakano decided to buy a ceramic box shaped like a guitar filled with strawberry candies, the two girls waited for her at the door of the shop.

"Do you know what's wrong, Eri?  Nakano seems so..." Kaori trailed off.

"Shut away," Eri finished, "No, I'm not sure what happened.  I mean, Tsukishima took a lot of teasing for those pictures of the two of them, but I'm not sure how that would have caused this."

"I'm going to text Kiyoko," Kaori said, pulling out her phone.

Kaori 🦉
Do you know what's wrong with Nakano?  She seems kind of sad.

Kiyoko 🖤
I think she and Tsukishima might have had a fight.  But I'm not really sure.  Is she okay?

Kaori 🦉
Yeah she's doing fine but we can tell she's not her usual self.  Thanks!

Nakano returned, her purchase tucked away her in bag.  "Sorry that took so long!  The shopkeeper wrapped up it extra for me since I figured I might have to carry it around for awhile.  So?  Where to next?"

Kaori checked her phone.  "Oh wow, look at the time!  We'd better get to the cat café - it's been almost an hour already!"  She slung an arm around Nakano's shoulders.  "Let's go play with some cute kitty cats!" 

The girls did indeed get to enjoy the company of many adorable cats in the café.  A large, fluffy white cat settled in Yukie's lap and simply refused to move, which everyone agreed was just far too cute.  They had some tea and chatted about the purchases they'd made as well as the things they were not able to afford.  Before long, Mako got everyone moving again.

Twenty minutes later, the girls arrived at the restaurant chosen by the coaches for their special dinner.  The place was casual, but offered a wide variety of dishes.  The girls enjoyed a fabulous meal as they talked about school, their teams, the future, and anything else that came into their heads.  When the conversation eventually came around to the inevitable topic of boys, Nakano seemed to withdraw a little, still smiling and nodding but clearly not really following the conversation any longer.  Kaori watched the strawberry blonde, and starting formulating a plan.

Mako returned from paying the check with a cheeky smile on her face.  "Well girls, our coaches are all very generous.  They gave me more than enough money to pay for this dinner, and insisted that we should go ahead and use the remainder as we wish.  I noticed we passed a Karaoke Kan on the way here...anyone up for it?"

Kaori giggled and clapped her hands.  Perfect, she thought, this is just what we need.  "Absolutely!  Come on, girls, this will be fun!"  Everyone at the table agreed.

Nakano stood up, excusing herself to the ladies' room.  Eri jumped up as well.  "Hold on, Nakano, I'll come with you!  Be right back!"

Once the girls were out of earshot, Kaori turned to Mako.  "How much do we have left?  Do you think we can afford to add a few more people to our box?"

Mako looked at her.  "Like who?"

"Nakano's really down.  I think we need to get her boyfriend here.  I know he trains with Bokuto in the evenings - what if I texted him to meet us at Karaoke Kan and to make sure to bring Tsukishima with him.  Can we afford it?"  Kaori looked at Mako hopefully.

Yukie chuckled.  "Even if we can't, I'll chip in just to get to see Bokuto sing."

Kiyoko giggled.  "I will too, especially since I expect Bokuto will bring more than just Tsukishima along.  We'd better get a big box."

"Count me in too," Yachi chirped. 

Mako smiled.  "I think I can probably cover it - we might just need to chip in for snacks and drinks.  I'm sure the boys will help too.  Let's do it."

Kaori chuckled, pulling out her phone.  "Don't say anything to Nakano.  I'm texting Bokuto now."  

🏐🏐🏐

Gym #3 was busy again that evening as the six boys played another three-on-three.  At the moment, however, play had stopped to allow Bokuto to teach Hinata another 'special move'.  Tsukishima wandered over to the bleachers to grab some water.  Kuroo handed him a bottle.

"Hey...I'm sorry about all the grief you had to take over those photos.  I hope it didn't bug you too much," Kuroo began.

Tsukishima colored gently as he downed the water.  "Don't worry about it."

"Sorry, my dude, I've gotta worry about it," Kuroo responded, "You and Nakano are my friends, and I don't like seeing you guys like this."  Tsukishima gave him a startled look.  "Come on, Tsukki.  I can tell something's off.  What's on your mind?"

The blonde sighed.  "Kuroo, what do you do when you've said something to someone you really didn't mean?  When...when you've let anger and frustration get the better of you?"  Kuroo chuckled.  "You find that question funny?" Tsukishima said, now annoyed.

Kuroo waved his hands in front of him.  "No, Tsukishima, I find you and Nakano to be kinda funny.  I'm guessing you asked me that question because you blurted out something to Nakano when you were upset, right?"  

"Well, yelled out would be more accurate.  I was feeling pretty pissed off at the time."

Kuroo nodded.  "Well, your lovely lady told me earlier today that she was upset because she'd lost her temper at you and she was feeling pretty damn guilty about it.  I find it funny that the two of you are so similar.  I swear, you guys were made for each other."  He looked up to see Tsukishima's face.  He cocked an eyebrow at the boy, surprised to see him with a look of mingled hope and incredulity.

"She...she's feeling guilty because I acted like an ass?" he whispered.  He focused his attention on Kuroo.  "Kuroo-san, you wouldn't joke around with me about this, would you?"  he asked him. 

Kuroo quirked a smile at him.  "Look, skinny jeans, I'm more than willing to tease you about a lot of things, including your half-assed blocks, but this?  No way, man.  I take matters of the heart very seriously."  He placed a hand on his chest, letting his head droop melodramatically.

"You're making me completely doubt your sincerity, Kuroo-san." 

He looked up, giving Tsukishima a smirk.  "Well don't, because I really am serious.  I wouldn't joke about this.  I consider you to be a lucky guy, Tsukishima, and I'm envious.  I would never do anything to jeopardize a good relationship like the one you and Nakano seem to have."

Tsukishima once again looked incredulous.  Envious, senpai?  Of me?  I find that hard...  Nakano's words from earlier suddenly came back to him.  'They were making fun of us because they were jealous.'  Shit.  She was right.  His expression changed, softening.  Why am I surprised at that?  She's right an awful lot.  She's got a much better handle on life than I do, I think.  Determination began to creep across his features.  I need to talk to her tonight.  I don't care how late they get in, I'm not putting this off.

Kuroo watched the emotions play across Tsukishima's face, amazed.  Now this is quite a sight, he thought.  This guy is usually a blank wall.  Amazing what the right person can make happen to you.  He let a small smile play on his lips as Tsukishima's face settled back down to something more akin to his usual dispassionate look.

"Thanks, Kuroo-san.  I think maybe I should text her.  I don't want to take the chance of not being able to catch her when they get back from their ladies' night."  Tsukishima reached over to his bag, looking for his phone, just as the other boys came jogging over.  Bokuto was holding out his phone.

"Hey hey hey!  Guys, check this out!  Kaori just texted me - the girls want us to join them for karaoke!" He slapped Tsukki on the back, making the boy flinch.  "And they insist I have to bring along a certain middle blocker!" Bokuto finished in a sing-song voice.

"HA! What's so great about you, Tsukishima?  Are you some kind of karaoke god or something?" Hinata cried at his teammate.

Kuroo slung an arm over Tsukishima's shoulders as the boy turned to clap back at Hinata, stopping him.  "Well I guess we're gonna find out, boys.  Let's not keep the ladies waiting.  I suggest we grab quick showers and change, and meet at the gate in 15 minutes.  Let them know we'll be there as soon as we can, Boku-bro, and get us some directions."  The six guys headed out from the gym, Bokuto, Hinata and Lev chattering excitedly about karaoke.  Kuroo smiled at Tsukki.  "Looks like you'll get your chance to talk your girl a little sooner than expected, my man.  I think maybe she really misses you.  Make the most of it."

Tsukishima gave him a small smile in return.  "Don't worry, senpai, I intend to."

🏐🏐🏐

"Hey, this is really amazing," Kaori gushed as the girls took in the karaoke box Mako had gotten for them.  The room was large, easily able to accommodate more than twice the number of girls currently in it.  Dark brown leather couches lined the sides of the room, with long low tables in between.  On one wall was a huge screen, with all the controls for the karaoke system below it, 3 microphones, and space for people to stand while using them.  "Are we really able to afford this?"

Mako laughed.  "Yes, thank goodness it's a weeknight and the rates are lower.  But if you want food or drink, that's going to be up to you.  Just this box will tap out the rest of the money I got from the coaches."

Nakano looked around at the huge space.  "Why such a big room, though?  There's only seven of us - we could have made do with a room half this size."  Everyone but Nakano knew that soon the room would be quite full.  Bokuto had texted Kaori to let her know that all six boys from the gym were coming, and should be catching up with them in about 10 minutes.

"I like having lots of room to stretch out," Kaori quipped, flopping down lengthwise on one of the couches.  "I hate feeling crammed into a space, you know?"

Eri giggled.  "Besides, the coaches wanted us to have a good time.  We've worked hard for this!  Let's enjoy it!"  

"Absolutely," Mako sat down and began looking through the available song choices.

Kaori sat up and grabbed the tablet used to order food and drink.  "Anybody want anything special to eat or drink?  I'm gonna order some stuff," Bokuto had asked her to order a few things since the boys were missing out on dinner at Shinzen.  

Nakano chuckled.  "Kaori, how can you even think about food at this point?  But I would like a strawber..." Nakano's face fell as she thought about sharing strawberry sodas with Tsukki.  "Nevermind, just some water is fine."

"Hey," Yukie said, patting Nakano on her shoulder, "Order whatever you like, I can cover you if you don't have the money."

Nakano looked up at Yukie, her smile once again in place.  "No, it isn't that, Yukie.  I just changed my mind, that's all."

Yukie fixed the girl with a knowing stare.  "You wouldn't lie to your senpai, now would you, Nakano?"

Nakano laughed.  "Goodness, why am I getting the third degree, hmmm?"

"Hey, uh...did anyone happen to notice where the ladies' room is?" Yachi asked.

Nakano jumped up.  "I did, Yachi.  Come on, I'll walk with you."  The two girls headed out of the box and through a side door into a hallway where the bathrooms were.  Nakano was grateful to get out of the box for a moment.  Man, I've got to keep it together here.  The last thing I want is to bring the girls down on what is supposed to be a fun night out.  She turned to Yachi and smiled.  "Are you having a good time, Yachi?"

"O-oh, yes, very much!  I can't believe how generous the coaches were to us!  And how n-nice all the other managers are," Yachi blushed as she thought about the impending arrival of six boys, only two of which she really knew.

The two girls entered the ladies' room, Yachi making a beeline for a stall.  Nakano stood in front of a mirror, trying to compose herself.  She'd chosen black leggings for their outing, which did a decent job of hiding the black leg supports she was wearing.  Her purple and white checkered blouse was loose and comfortable.  Her hand wandered to her bismuth Moon pendant, reminding her again of her boyfriend.  She looked at her face in the mirror, touching the pendant, and trying to keep anything at all from showing on her face.  I've been through worse, she thought, a sad smile quirking her lips.  Hell, I've been through much worse.  She chuckled to herself.  I wonder if they have 'Let It Go' from Frozen, that'd be a good one for me to sing tonight.  She decided to use the restroom after all, heading into a stall just as Yachi came out.

"Sorry, Yachi, I'll just be a minute.  Wait for me, okay?"  Nakano called out.

"Oh, of course I will."  Yachi washed her hands, then called out to Nakano again.  "I'm going to use the water fountain in the hall.  Umm...I'll wait for you out there, okay?"

Nakano came out to wash her own hands.  "Sure Yachi, I'll meet you out there in a second."  She watched the shorter blonde slip out of the room.  She's still so nervous around us, she thought.  I wonder what I can do to try to make her feel more comfortable.  I mean, it's gotten better, but she can still be so jumpy at times.  Nakano exited the ladies' room, just in time to see Yachi opening the wrong door.  "Hey, Yachi, that's not..." 

"Well hello, cutie.  C'mere," a deep voice sounded from beyond the door Yachi had opened.  With a squeak, Yachi disappeared through the door as if she had been yanked on.

"Yachi!"  Nakano dashed out of the door without a second thought.

Meanwhile, in the karaoke box, Mako had started singing a J-pop song in a rather screechy sort of voice.  Kiyoko looked over at Kaori.  "I'm going to go out front and bring the boys in when they get here."

Kaori smiled.  "I was about to do that," she chuckled.  "They should be here in a few minutes.  Thanks Kiyoko!"

Yukie frowned, looking around in the hallway as Kiyoko left.  "Where are Nakano and Yachi?  They've been gone for almost 10 minutes.  Seems like a long time for two girls to go to the bathroom."

Kaori seized the opportunity to get away from Mako's voice.  "Let's go look for them.  I think I saw the sign for the restrooms on the way in."  She grabbed Yukie's hand and headed out the door with her to look around for the other two girls.

Kiyoko waited in the lobby of the Karaoke Kan, watching out the big windows for the boys to arrive.  After about five minutes, she saw Hinata suddenly appear at the window, a huge smile coming across his face when he saw her.  He turned and seemed to be calling down the street.  Kiyoko was about to go outside and greet him when Kaori and Yukie came running up.

"Kiyoko, have Yachi and Nakano come by here?" Kaori asked, looking concerned.

"No, they haven't," the raven-haired girl replied, following Yukie as she opened the main doors and stepped outside, looking up and down the block.  "What's going on?"

"We can't find them anywhere," Yukie said, a nervous catch in her voice.  "We've looked around the whole building.  They're not in the ladies' room, we didn't see them in another box.  It's like they've disappeared."

"Who's disappeared?" Hinata asked.

"Ladies, what's wrong?  You look upset." Akaashi said as the other boys caught up to Hinata.

"Nakano and Yachi have gone missing.  We don't know where they are!"  The girl was beginning to look almost panicked.

Tsukishima's blood froze.  "When did you see them last?"

"They went to the ladies' room about 15 minutes ago." Kaori replied.

"I'm texting them right now," Tsukishima said, taking out his phone.

"No good.  They left their phones in the box." Kaori groaned.  "We already thought of that."

Kuroo held up his hands. "Everybody calm down.  Did you search the building?"

"I've been waiting in the lobby for you for about 5 minutes.  I didn't see them come by," Kiyoko said.

"We l-looked all over the p-place.  We d-didn't see them anywhere."  Kaori began to cry as Bokuto swept her into a hug.

"Alright, we've got plenty of people here, let's make a plan of attack.  They can't have gone far.  I'm sure we can find them," Kuroo began.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano emerged in a dark alley, her eyes washed out from the bright lights in the building.  She swept the area as best she could, assessing as she would if she were on the court.  Trash cans lined the area.  Two people besides Yachi were there, both males, she judged.  One was holding Yachi, roughly stroking her hair.  From the smell of things, the boys had been getting high when Yachi interrupted them.  Good, Nakano thought, that might dull their reaction times a little.

"Well isn't this our lucky night.  Looks like we'll both get a blonde to spend the evening with," the unoccupied male said as he started to move towards Nakano.  "Don't be afraid, pretty girl, we just want to show you ladies a fun evening."  

Five steps, Nakano estimated, he's got to take about five steps to reach me.  She shut her eyes tight, counting slowly to four, hoping her eyesight would improve with the few moments of darkness.  She heard Yachi whimper.  I've got to stop this one, then get Yachi free.  When she got to four, her eyes flew open, seeing her attacker closing in, a wicked grin on his face.  He had long jet black hair and a crooked nose, and appeared to be a teenager, perhaps 18.  He stank of weed and stale sweat.  His eyes were thoroughly bloodshot.  I'm in luck, Nakano thought, this guy's already pretty far gone.  As his hands began to reach for her, she lashed out with her right fist, connecting hard with his face.

The male fell backwards, grunting and crashing into one of the trash cans.  "Sota!" the brown-haired male holding Yachi cried, moving towards his comrade.  Nakano launched herself forward, tackling him low and knocking the wind out of him.  He lost his grip on Yachi and the girl stumbled sideways.

"YACHI!! GO!!" Nakano cried, pointing up the alley towards the main street.  Yachi complied, running as fast as she could without looking back.  She heard a lot of grunting, and then a sudden loud crack and a yelp from Nakano.

Bokuto looked up from Kaori as a loud clattering sound rang out.  "What was that?"

A female voice could be heard, shouting.  "Nakano!" Tsukishima cried, moving in the direction from which the voice came.

Kuroo and Bokuto moved to follow him.  "Akaashi, you and the other boys stay here with the girls!" Kuroo said.  

"Right," Akaashi said, wrapping his arms around the still-crying Kaori.  

Just then, Yachi burst from the alleyway, almost crashing into Tsukishima.

"Yachi!  Where's Nakano?" the blonde boy asked her.

Yachi's eyes were as big as saucers, and her whole body was trembling.  Her hair was a mess, and her clothes were completely disheveled.  "Alley...boys...fighting..." Yachi didn't seem to be capable of forming a coherent sentence.  

"Hinata!" Tsukishima called.  The orange haired boy ran up and put his arms around Yachi, leading her away.

"SHE SAVED ME!" Yachi suddenly yelled.  "SHE FOUGHT THEM AND LET ME GET AWAY!" The tiny blonde then burst into tears, her whole body sagging against Hinata.

Tsukishima's golden eyes blazed with fury as he walked down the alley, Kuroo and Bokuto behind him.  There were three men in the alley now, two closer to them, facing away, and a third one, a redhead with a black streak in his hair, holding Nakano from behind slumped over his arms.  She looked unconscious, and her blouse was torn, exposing her side and her pale peach bra.  The redhead laughed at his companions.  "You guys must be totally blasted if you couldn't handle a little thing like this one.  Come on, let's take her somewhere more comfortable..."

"Put her down." Tsukishima commanded, getting the attention of the three.

"Look, man," the guy said, turning towards Tsukishima, "she's ours.  Go find your own piece of ass for the night, huh?"

Tsukishima's hands clenched into fists, and Kuroo and Bokuto both cracked their knuckles.  "I believe my friend told you to put her down," Bokuto said, his voice deep with controlled anger.  "I suggest you do it now."

"Really?  You want her that badly, eh?  Lemme guess why." He leaned slightly in toward Nakano, turning towards her, taking a deep breath of her hair. "She smells good...and I bet she tastes even..."

Nakano suddenly flung herself up and backwards with full force, her skull crashing into her captor's face with a sickening crunch sound.  She was freed from his grip as he flew backwards, blood pouring from his nose.  Tsukishima dashed forward at the first sign of movement from Nakano, squaring off against her attacker as the redhead tried to stay on his feet.  Bokuto and Kuroo moved to engage the other two men, as Nakano wheeled around to face the man she'd already injured.

"Nakano, get out of here!" Tsukishima yelled, ducking a punch from the man in front of him and catching his target in the stomach with his own fist.

"Oh hell no!" growled Nakano, turning to see Bokuto grappling the guy who had held Yachi.  Nakano was facing the brunette's back, his legs spread apart for balance, all his attention on the bulky ace in front of him.  She took advantage of the situation, kicking straight up between the man's legs and right into his crotch.  He gave out a strangled cry and dropped to the ground.

"She's a hellcat when she's pissed!" Kuroo laughed as he landed a solid hit to the jaw of the third man.  "Bokuto, grab her and run!"

"BOKUTO TOUCH ME AND LOSE A HAND!" Nakano screamed. She turned back to Tsukishima, who was now angrily pummeling his opponent at will.  "STOP IT!"  Nakano yelled at Tsukishima.  "HE'S HAD ENOUGH!"  She grabbed Tsukishima's right arm, stopping his next hit.

Tsukishima's honey brown eyes locked with Nakano's bright blue ones.  His gaze swept over her, taking her in.  She was a complete mess, but she was standing on her feet, looking strong.  He dropped the man he was holding, letting him collapse to the ground, nearly unconscious.  He grabbed Nakano, wrapping her tight into his embrace.  She wrapped her arms around him, both of them breathing deeply, trying to regain control.

Kuroo tossed the dark-haired fellow at the other two.  "Better gather up your buddies and get the hell out of here before we call the police, boys.  And next time, maybe think twice before you try taking advantage of a girl.  Especially our girls."  Kuroo pushed Tsukishima and Nakano to move forward out of the alley.  

"Nakano-chan, you're bleeding!" Bokuto cried.

"What?" Tsukishima pulled away from her to look into her face.  Sure enough, she had a gash across her left cheek, gently weeping blood.

"One of them backhanded me at some point.  I think he had a ring on his hand." Her voice was still a low, tense growl.  "Is Yachi alright?"

Kuroo nodded and continued to usher everyone forward.  "Let's get everyone back to Shinzen and sort this whole mess out."

🏐🏐🏐

Hinata had to carry Yachi on his back, as the girl had passed out not long after getting herself out of the alleyway.  Tsukishima carried Nakano, as her legs gave out about halfway back.  Mako had contacted the coaches, who had Kuroo bring the entire group to the teacher's lounge.  Daichi met them there as well.  

It took some time for the adults to piece together the entire story of the group's ill-fated trip to Karaoke Kan.  As soon as the coaches departed, leaving Daichi in charge of getting everyone settled for the night, Kageyama burst into the room, despite Daichi's insistence that the team stay away.  The raven-haired setter rushed to Nakano's side, throwing his arms around her.  Tsukishima, who was getting the cuts and scrapes on his knuckles cleaned at the time, simply snorted.

The setter rounded on him.  "You!" he yelled pointing at the middle blocker, "You're supposed to protect her from shit like this..." He started angrily walking towards the blonde.  Numerous voices erupted, with several people trying to reach out and grab the boy.

"KAGEYAMA!!!" Nakano's strong voice powered over the din in the room, bringing everyone to a sudden halt.  She looked up at her best friend, bright blue eyes meeting dark blue ones.  "Tsukki saved me.  If he, Kuroo and Bokuto hadn't shown up when they did...well...I don't want to think about what would have happened to me." Her voice was quavering, she was clearly working hard to hold it together.  "There's no way I could take on three guys like that, even if two of them were completely wasted.  So please, just stop, okay?"

All of the fight went out of the boy.  Kageyama looked at Tsukishima. "I'm sorry.  I just..."

"I get it.  It's okay," Tsukishima said softly.  Yeah, I very much get the concept of yelling shit you don't mean when you're angry and frustrated.  I'm amazed it took him this long before he came in here.  

Daichi put a hand on Kageyama's shoulder.  "Kageyama, why don't you and the other boys see to the managers.  Make sure everyone is settled and safe for the night.  I'll stay here with Bokuto, Kuroo, Tsukishima and Nakano to make sure everyone's medical needs are taken care of.  Sound good?"

"Yes, sir," Kageyama said.  

Kiyoko turned to Daichi.  "Would it be alright if Yachi and I stayed in with you boys tonight?  I think I'd feel a little better surrounded by the team, at this point."

"Me too," Eri said, "That is, I think I'd rather be with my team."

Daichi looked at the other girls, who all nodded.  He gave a small smile.  "Well, I can understand that.  Our managers are like sisters to us, and I'm sure it's the same for the rest of you.  Given what's happened tonight, I think we can make an exception to the normal rules.  Akaashi, please make sure everyone gets properly settled, okay?  There's food in the kitchen for anyone who still needs dinner as well."

"Of course, Sawamura-san." Akaashi gathered everyone together and herded them out of the room.

Once the majority of people had left, the boys became aware of a soft sound.  They turned to see Nakano shaking, almost violently.  Tsukki quickly sat by her side, wrapping his arms around her.  "Hey," he whispered to the girl, "It's alright, you're safe now." He gently stroked her hair, trying to calm her down.  "Naka-chan, what is it?"

"A-a-adrenaline crash.  L-l-legs.  S-s-sore."  She buried her face against Kei, eyes filled with tears.  "O-ov-overwhelmed.  Em-embar-embarassed," she stuttered out softly.

Daichi sat on the other side of Nakano, taking her hand in both of his.  "Nakano, why on Earth would you be embarrassed?"  Daichi smiled at the girl, brushing her hair away from her face.  Tsukishima was surprised to see the captain's eyes were shining as if with unshed tears.  "You were so brave today.  And you've no idea how grateful we all are that you're okay."  He chuckled.  "Actually, you'll probably find out as soon as you come to the room.  I doubt anyone has been able to go to sleep yet, other than maybe Yachi."

Nakano made a small noise, a squeak of fear.  She buried her head in Tsukishima's chest.  "P-p-p-please...n-n-no..." she managed to whisper.

"Daichi-san, I know this might be a lot to ask, but I don't think Nakano is ready to face everyone tonight."

"Would you rather stay here tonight, Nakano?" Daichi asked.  The girl nodded against Tsukishima's chest.  "Are you sure?  I hate to think of you in here alone..."

"Please let me stay with her, Captain," Tsukishima said.  Nakano nodded again, clinging to Tsukki.

Daichi looked at his middle blocker, concern and sympathy on his face.  "Tsukishima, I don't think I can..."

"Look, Captain, I wouldn't even dream of asking for this, except you can see the state she's in.  Absolutely nothing is going to happen in here except me holding her so she can sleep.  You can prop the door open all night if you need to.  Heck, you can have someone else sleep in here with us if that will help.  I just don't think she can stand being in a big group any more tonight, nor am I willing to leave her alone in this condition.  Please, sir."

Daichi looked at his two fellow captains.  Bokuto nodded, and Kuroo put a hand on Daichi's shoulder.  "I think you can trust them, Daichi.  Why don't you go get them some blankets and such?  Bokuto and I will finish up the medical stuff with them."

Daichi nodded.  "Alright," he stood, headed for the door.  "I will ask you to leave this door open, though.  At least I can tell the coaches I insisted on that much." He gave Tsukishima a lopsided grin.

"Thank you, Captain.  Would you mind bringing me something to eat from the kitchen?  Anything at all will do, sir."  Tsukishima said.

"Sure thing.  I'll be back shortly." Daichi headed out down the hallway.

Tsukishima turned his full attention back to Nakano.  "Do you need me to get you a change of clothes?  You're a bit of a mess."

"And I really want to have a look at that cut on your cheek, Nakano.  It needs to be cleaned and bandaged, at the very least."  Kuroo said gently.

"Can I help?" Bokuto said softly, causing Nakano to chuckle even as she continued to shake.

"B-b-bag," Nakano said, pointing at the bag she'd carried with her that evening, which lay on the table.  Tsukishima grabbed it, opening it up.  Inside was a tube of her medicated cream, and a change of clothes.  He stood up, offering Nakano his hand.  "Come on, I'll take you over to the ladies' room so you can change."

A few minutes later the pair returned, Nakano now clad in a clean tee shirt and workout shorts.  Tsukishima carried her back into the room, causing Bokuto and Kuroo to jump to their feet with worry.  "She's okay, she just doesn't have a whole lot of strength left in her legs right now."  He set her down gently on the couch again.

"Actually," Nakano said softly, her shaking finally reduced to a gentle shiver, "The floor will be easier for you Tsukki.  Can you do my legs?  Just a quick rub down - you don't have to do a full massage.  The cream can do most of the work.  And Kuroo can look at my cheek at the same time."

Bokuto pouted slightly.  "What about me?"

"Could I lean on you, Bokuto-san?" the girl asked softly.

Bokuto plunked himself on the floor, his back against the couch, his legs folded to the side.  He offered the girl his hand, guiding her down to sit with her back leaning against his chest.  "How's that?" 

"Thanks, Bokuto-san," Nakano said gratefully, trying to stop shaking.

"Just lean against your bro now, girl, and let these guys take care of you,"  Bokuto said with a smile, patting her head.

Tsukishima clicked his tongue, getting to work on her legs.  "Not another big brother I have to worry about..." he said, giving Nakano a small smile.

She giggled.  "At least this one is actually older than me," she replied.

"Huh?"  Bokuto looked confused.

"Kageyama considers himself Nakano's older brother.  Gives me a whole lot of grief about taking good care of her all the time," Tsukishima explained.

"Oh, well that means that I'm his older brother too!  And as the oldest brother, I'll be sure to tell him that you have my permission to date our little sister here," Bokuto said, giving Nakano's shoulders a soft squeeze.

Tsukishima rolled his eyes, "Oh man, we've created a monster," he muttered.  Nakano smiled.

"Alright, big brother, hold her still so I can clean that cut.  This is going to hurt a bit, Nakano-chan,"  Kuroo moved in with an alcohol pad.  Nakano looked up at him, ready.  "Not that you can't take it...you really are one tough lady."  His hands moved gently to clean her cut.  "Where did you learn to fight like that?"  He asked, once his work on her face was done.

"My dad is a naval officer with two daughters.  He made sure we knew how to protect ourselves when he couldn't be there," she said, "How bad is it, Kuroo?"

"Not bad at all, in fact, it's a much smaller cut than I thought.  It just bled a lot.  You want me to bandage it?"  Kuroo asked.

"If you think it can do without, that's probably better.  How's your lip?"  Nakano replied.

"Sore," he quipped, "but I've had worse." He packed up the medical kit he'd been using and returned it to its place in the kitchen.  "You were really something tonight.  You definitely saved Yachi from something really awful.  I've gotta ask you...when we got into the alley, I would've sworn you were out cold.  And then you cracked that guy in the face with...hey, speaking of, Bokuto, check the back of her head - gently!"

Nakano chuckled softly.  "Don't worry guys, my head is fine."  

Bokuto gently felt the back of her head looking for a bump.  "I think she's right, bro, I don't feel any bump or anything."

"So...what happened there?  What was your plan?" Kuroo asked, sitting beside the girl again.

Nakano took a deep breath.  "My initial plan was just to get Yachi clear.  Once I did that, I was hoping the fact that both boys were stoned would work in my favor to let me get away.  But then the third guy showed up, and he was clearly sober.  I knew I was in deep trouble at that point.  But then I heard Yachi yelling at someone, so I took a gamble that help was on the way.  When that guy grabbed me from behind, I struggled a bit and then pretended to pass out, hoping he'd get distracted by whoever showed up.  Gave me the chance to try that little trick.  I'd never actually used it on someone before."  Nakano began a shake a little again, remembering how she felt during those moments that she'd had to wait, silently praying that whoever had entered the alley would be able to help her.

Kuroo looked at her with admiration clearly visible on his face.  "You broke his nose, I'm pretty sure of that.  You really are a wildcat, girlie."  He ruffled her hair gently.  "And I'm really glad you're okay."

"Me too," Bokuto said, squeezing her shoulders again.

"And I'm really glad you guys came when you did."  She thought for a moment, and realized something.  "Why were you guys even there anyway?"

Kuroo gave Bokuto a look.  The owlish captain gave Nakano a last squeeze and slid out from behind her.  "I think we'll let Tsukki explain that one."  The two captains stood up, and headed for the door as Tsukishima finished Nakano's legs and put the cream away, going to wash his hands in the sink.

"You make sure to get a good night's rest, okay?" Kuroo said.  

"See you guys tomorrow!" Bokuto chimed as the pair headed out.

Nakano turned to look at her boyfriend as he walked back from the sink.  She was about to ask a question when Daichi returned, carrying pillows, blankets, and a basket.  "Sorry that took so long, guys, it's a little crazy out there tonight."  He set everything down on the floor.  "I suggest you try to get as much sleep as you can.  I've asked everyone to leave you alone tonight, but I think you're going to be the center of attention tomorrow, Nakano, whether you like it or not."

Nakano yawned widely.  "I'll be ready, Cap.  Thank you for everything."

"Sure thing.  Goodnight, you two."  Daichi headed back to the door, propping it open.

"Would you turn off the lights, please, Daichi-san?"  Tsukishima called.  I'll have enough light from the doorway to finish setting everything up.  He was in the process of using couch cushions to create a makeshift sleeping pallet.  Daichi smiled and hit the lights as he left.

"But Kei," Nakano said around another big yawn, "Shouldn't you eat first?"

"Don't worry about me.  You're practically asleep already, your body has had enough."  He settled her down on the cushions and covered her with a blanket, sitting close beside her.  He grabbed an onigiri from the basket.  "See?  I'm eating.  Now, please, try to get some sleep."  He stroked her hair gently.  Despite herself, Nakano quickly fell deeply asleep.

Chapter Text

"Finally...I thought we'd never get out of the gym today..."

"Oh man...I know...I swear if Hayami-san had called for one more receiving drill I was so gonna..."

"Ugh...volleyball makes me hungry..."

"Naka-chan...where are you going?"

The sound of my shoes crunching against the gravel in the road as I started jogging across the street to the market.

"I'm just gonna run over and grab some snacks...anybody want..."

"NAKANO!! LOOK..."

The engine roar.

Nakano's eyes popped open as she gasped, shaking, sweating.  Where am I?

She took several deep breaths, trying to calm herself.  The damn dream.  She'd not had it for a long while.  She tried to sit up in bed, but something seemed to stop her from moving.  What the heck?

She lay still, trying to calm herself and stop her shaking.  It took her several moments to realize she wasn't shaking...something was shaking her.  She'd thought she was sweating, but she discovered only her right shoulder was wet.  Her brain fog finally began to lift.  She wasn't in bed, she was lying on the floor of a teacher's lounge in Shinzen High School.  Kei was spooning her - he was being the big spoon.

And it was him who was shaking and quietly sobbing on her shoulder.

"Kei?"  She tried to roll over, but he held her tightly, not allowing her to move.

"Roses," he sobbed, "Oh god, Roses, I'm so sorry.  I said such stupid damn things.  I hurt you so badly, Roses, I'm sorry, please..."

"Kei! It's alright!"  She rubbed his arms that were wrapped so tightly around her as to almost be painful.  "Kei, please, let me roll over, let me see you."  He relaxed his arms, she turned over to see tears running down his face.  "Oh my goodness, Kei!"  She held his face in her hands and kissed his tears.  

"Please, Roses, please...I was so frustrated and upset and I said stuff without thinking.  I'm such an ass...I took my anger out on the one person who didn't deserve it.  You...you have no idea how happy you've made me - how happy I am to have you in my life.  How grateful I am that you're still here.  You have to believe me.  Please, please believe me, Roses..."  His voice was barely a whisper.  He tried to stop crying and found he couldn't.  

"Kei, come on, take a deep breath.  I do believe you, of course I believe you.  I did the same thing, only far worse.  I exploded at you, dumped things on you so unfairly - things that had nothing to do with the actual situation.  I didn't even give you a chance to explain how you were feeling, I just...unloaded all my pent up rage at you.  I'm so sorry, Kei.  Please forgive me."  Tears welled up in her eyes, she tried to keep them back.

Tsukishima took her advice, taking ragged deep breaths, trying to calm down.  He saw the tears forming in her eyes, and brought a hand to her face to caress her cheek.  "My god, you've got nothing to be sorry for.  Everything you said was true.  I was being a self-centered jackass.  All I wanted to do all afternoon was tell you how sorry I was.  And then seeing you in that alley...seeing that bastard touch you...thinking of what could have happened..."  He held her tightly to him again, as if he feared she might suddenly disappear.  "Thank god you're alright, that you're still here with me."

"I told you before, it will take a great deal of effort on your part to get me to abandon you.  I've worked too hard to find you, Tsukishima Kei."  She chuckled gently, running her fingers through his messy blonde hair.  "We really are a pair, aren't we?  Two people so used to keeping their feelings inside...and yet, when we're around each other, we can't seem to stop ourselves from letting those feelings out, often explosively."  

He smiled back at her, his tears finally stopping.  "Kuroo said something rather similar to me today, noting how very much alike we are.  He said we were made for each other."

She nuzzled against his chest.  "I knew he was a smart guy."

He sighed, feeling her warmth.  "I'm sorry you had to suffer so much, Roses.  I didn't know how bad it was for you, how much you've had to deal with beyond the physical work of rebuilding your legs.  I wish I could have been there to make it better."

"I'm sorry I flung all that at you without warning.  I'll try not to..."

"No," he said, looking at her, "Don't try to hide any of it from me.  I want you to know you can share it all with me.  I want to be the one you can pour these feelings out to.  I want to you know you're safe here with me.  I've wanted to tell you that for a while now."

"Kei," she mumbled, her voice thick with emotion.  Tears began to flood from her eyes and she broke down, sobbing, burying her face against his chest.

It runs deep, he thought.  The depth of pain in her, it's greater than I thought.  But I don't care.  I swear I'm going to be here for her.  I'm not going to let her go.  She trembled in his arms.  She's scared, heck so am I, but I'm not backing down from this.  Almost from the day I met her, I've had this feeling like I wanted to understand her.  It looks like that's going to be quite a journey.  And maybe along the way, I'll get to understand myself a little better.  He held her, rubbing her back softly, letting her cry it out.  As her tears finally began to abate, he kissed her softly on the head.

"Well this has been one hell of a day, hasn't it?" he said.

She laughed.  "Thank you, Kei.  I don't know if you realize what you've signed up for here, but I'm so grateful you're willing to try."

"I'm not letting you go, Roses.  I've worked too hard to find you, too."

They lay quietly together for awhile, comforted by the presence of the other.  

"Kei?  How did you guys wind up in that alley?"

He chuckled.  "One of Fukurodani's managers texted Bokuto and told him to bring me to meet you at Karaoke Kan.  All the guys decided to go."

"They said to bring you specifically?"

"Mhmmm.  Apparently, they were worried about you."

"Damn, and I thought I hid it so well.  I must be losing my touch."

"I certainly hope so.  I hate your fake smile."

"What?"

"You have this smile that you use when you hide your real feelings.  It's completely fake.  It doesn't reach your eyes, and I hate it when I see it on your face.  I hope I can make it go away forever."

"I'll be damned," she whispered, "Maybe you'll be able to do just that."  She seemed to relax deeper into his embrace.

"Ready to go back to sleep?"

"As long as you promise to keep holding me."

"That's the plan, Roses."

The two closed their eyes, gently drifting back to sleep in each other's arms.

🏐🏐🏐

Tsukishima was hovering on the edge of wakefulness.  Soft was the first thing he noticed.  Something soft in his arms.  Soft and warm.  He snuggled the soft warm thing he was holding, and it moved.  A small smile began to play on his lips as he came a little more awake, remembering where he was.  He was spooning his beautiful girlfriend, who was muttering quietly about not wanting to get up yet.  This is good, his still half asleep brain thought, this is a very good way to wake up in the morning.  "I think I'd like to wake up like this every morning," he mumbled.

"Approved," came the answering mumble from the soft warm girl in his embrace.

"Well, okay, I guess we can do that.  Are we gonna get an apartment together, or what?" a strangely perky voice added.

Tsukishima's eyes flew open and he looked up to see the upside-down face of Nishinoya hovering over him.  "GAAAH!" he cried, flinching, jerking Nakano awake as well.  "Nishinoya-senpai, what are you doing?"

"Waiting," the libero replied with a smile.

Tsukishima closed his eyes and rubbed the bridge of his nose with one hand, already feeling the tiniest beginning of a tension headache after only three sentences from his upperclassman.  "Why are you hovering over us like that?"

"Well, Daichi said we weren't allowed to wake you up, but he didn't say we couldn't wait in here for you to wake up.  Plus the door was open, so we figured you wouldn't mind the company."  Noya said with a big smirk.

"We?" Nakano asked, sitting up and looking around.

Yamaguchi, Tanaka and Asahi were sitting on chairs.  Yamaguchi and Asahi wore mingled looks of concern and embarrassment.  Tanaka looked delighted.

"Good morning, my badass teammates!  Time to tell us the tale of your adventures last night!  I cannot wait!"  Tanaka bounced on the edge of his seat.  

Nakano chuckled.  "Noya-senpai, Tanaka-senpai, I appreciate the enthusiasm, but I think I'd really like a shower and to get ready for the day first, okay?"  

Tsukishima stood up, stretching.  He looked down at the girl beside him.  "How are the legs?  Do you think you can stand?"  He offered her his hand.

She took it and got to her feet with no problem, smiling.  "I'm fine, Tsukki.  I got this."  She turned to Yamaguchi and Asahi.  "Noya and Tanaka I understand, but what brought the two of you in here to stare at us this morning?"  

Yamaguchi and Asahi looked at their two sleepy teammates, their eyes shining and lips quivering.  "We were worried about you!" they both suddenly shouted, throwing themselves at the pair.  Both began to move back and forth between the two blondes, checking Nakano's cheek and Tsukki's hands, and pretty much babbling about their concerns over them.  Finally, Asahi couldn't take it anymore and caught the pair into a bear hug, throwing an arm around each of them.  Tadashi leaned in too, stretching an arm across Nakano's back to get a hand on Tsukki's shoulder.

"I'm so glad you guys are both okay," Asahi rumbled.

"Naka-chan," Tadashi said with a quavering voice, "you were so brave..."

"Tadashi, shhhh," she replied, leaning her head against his.

"GROUP HUG!!" yelled Tanaka and Noya, pouncing on their teammates.  Fortunately they came in from opposite sides so the precarious pile of bodies did not topple over, but just sort of squished tighter.  Nakano laughed and basked in the warmth of her team.  "We were worried about you guys too," Nishinoya said softly after a few moments.  They stayed that way until Nakano could almost feel the waves of irritation coming off Tsukishima.

"Alright, boys, I think it's time we all get ready for the day, hmmm?"  Nakano started encouraging them to untangle from one another.  "Thanks for worrying about us.  But we're fine, and very glad that it's all over.  Now scoot, because I'm hungry, and I have to get ready before I can go to breakfast!"

The boys laughed and disengaged, heading for the door.  Tsukishima started cleaning up the makeshift sleeping pallet.  Tanaka paused at the door and called back to Nakano.  "Hey!  I still wanna hear about your crazy warrior princess fightin' moves, Naka-chan!"

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "I think you mean warrior queen, senpai," he said with a smirk.

Nakano smacked him playfully.  "Oh shut it, you.  Tanaka-senpai, I'm sure you're not the only one.  Something tells me I'll be talking a lot about this at breakfast.  Now go, silly!"  The boy laughed and headed off.

"Thanks, Roses.  I thought we were going to be stuck in that hug for days."  Tsukki said, continuing to gather things up.  She started to help out as he gave her a sideways glance.  "Still don't like being called brave, I see."  She gave him a look.  "Well, what would you call it?"

She heaved a sigh.  "Angry," she said.  "I wasn't brave, I was pissed off.  At first I was angry at those boys for trying to hurt Yachi.  But then..." She looked down, color rising to her cheeks, "I took my anger at myself...and, if I'm being honest, still a little at you...out on those guys.  I'm not proud of that."

"Hey," he said, putting the couch cushions back and then gathering her into his arms.  "You're not the only one.  I did the same exact thing, and I think I was angrier.  I seem to recall you having to stop me from pounding that guy.  So if anything, I've got more call to be embarrassed than you.  But I'm not...because those boys deserved exactly what they got."  He ran a hand through her hair, then brought it down to caress her face.  "They tried to hurt you.  They're lucky I didn't kill them."  He drew her in close and whispered in her ear. "Mine."

She giggled, making him smile.  He loved it when she giggled like that.  I will never get tired of hearing that giggle, he thought.  I want to hear it every single day.

"Hey you two lovebirds," Kuroo said from his position leaning on the doorway, "You'd better get a move on if you intend to eat this morning."  

Tsukishima rolled his eyes.  "Fine, fine.  We're coming."  The pair headed out of the room at last to begin their day.

🏐🏐🏐

Breakfast was at least as insane as it had been yesterday, only the focus was more on Nakano than Tsukishima.  People expect big, tall, strong guys to beat up someone trying to hurt girls, Tsukki thought.  No one expects a girl to be able to defend herself as readily as Nakano did.  But boy am I glad she can.  The team was peppering her with questions, and people from other teams were standing around, curious to get the story directly from the girl herself.

Nakano tried to answer as many questions as she could, but it was soon obvious to Tsukishima that she was struggling.  He put an arm around her, trying to comfort her, earning himself a surprised look from some of his teammates.  He ignored them and caught Daichi's eyes, glancing to Nakano and silently pleading for the captain to do something.  He got the message, shooing members of the other teams away.  Bokuto and Kuroo both gathered a decent following, telling their version of events and drawing some focus away from their strawberry blonde friend.  

"Looks like your reputation as a total badass is confirmed, Nakano," Narita declared.

"That's our Naka-chan!  She kicks ass, takes names, and looks good doin' it!"  Tanaka gushed.  "Those city boys didn't stand a chance in hell!"

Nakano laughed in spite of herself.  Yachi, who had been sitting quietly next to Nakano the whole time, suddenly seemed to explode.

"I'M SORRY!" their little blonde manager yelled, "I'm so sorry that I got you into so much trouble!  It's all my fault!  Please forgive me!" Yachi tried to bow while sitting down and nearly knocked her head into the table.

Asahi reached out to stop the girl from concussing herself.  "Hey, slow down there, Yachi!"

"Yachi, don't be ridiculous!" Nakano said.  "None of this was your fault at all!  How can you possibly think that?"

"I-i-if I hadn't o-opened the wrong d-d-d-door, none of this w-w-would have happened!"  Yachi stammered out, coming close to tears.

"Stop that, Yachi!  All you did was open a door!  Since when is that inviting trouble?  You absolutely are not allowed to blame this on yourself.  The only people who deserve any blame for this are those stupid boys in the alley!"  Nakano rubbed the girl's back, hoping to stop her from breaking down.

Yachi looked at Nakano, catching sight of the small cut on her cheek.  "But you did everything!  I just s-s-stood there like a...a...I couldn't even help!  I was useless!"

"No you weren't, Yachi!  You saved Nakano!"  Yamaguchi stood up, his eyes wide.  He walked around to stand behind the shaking blonde girl.

"What?" Yachi turned to look up at him.

"Nakano, didn't you say that as soon as you got the guy off Yachi, you told her to run for it, and she did, right?"  Yamaguchi asked.  Nakano nodded.  "And then you said the third guy showed up, and you knew you couldn't take on three guys.  But then you heard Yachi yelling at someone and you knew help was on the way!  If it hadn't been for Yachi running out of that alley..."

Nakano put a hand on Yachi's shoulder as tears began to slide down the smaller girl's cheeks.  "He's right, Yachi.  If you'd frozen, or even hesitated for a moment, those guys would have had us both.  But you did the exact right thing - went for help as fast as you could.  Thank you, Yachi."

Yachi burst into sobs.  Nakano began to get up, thinking she would take the girl out and try to calm her down, but Tsukishima's arm pressed her back down.  She looked at him in surprise.

"Tadashi," Tsukki said softly, "why don't you take Yachi outside for a few minutes?"

Yamaguchi held out his hand to the girl.  "Come on, Yachi, come with me."  She took his hand and he guided her out of the cafeteria.

Tsukishima watched the two of them go.  Interesting, he thought, I'd have expected Tadashi to become a blushing mess when I suggested that, but instead he stepped right on up.  He chuckled slightly to himself.  I might just have my chance to take my revenge for the condom throwing incident sooner than I thought.  Way to go, Yamaguchi.

Nakano meanwhile, leaned over against Tsukishima with a sigh.  "Thank you," she whispered, "I didn't want to leave Yachi like that, but I don't think I'm in the best shape for consoling her right now."  She heaved a deep sigh.  "Something tells me this is going to be a very exhausting day."

🏐🏐🏐

With Kiyoko, Yukie and Kaori on food detail, Nakano put Yachi in charge of Karasuno for the day, while she ran manager duty for Nekoma and Fukurodani.  Tsukishima had tried to protest that decision, but Nakano had pointed out that she didn't think Yachi had it in her to deal with unfamiliar boys today.  

"Besides, you know Bokuto and Kuroo will look out for me, and it's not like you'll be far away." She gave her boyfriend a weary smile.  "Don't worry, I got this."

Tsukishima chuckled at the memory, standing in the bullpen, out for the current set.  She was right of course.  As exhausted as Nakano looked, Yachi was almost as jumpy as she'd been when they first met her.  And indeed, every time someone from one of the other teams would try to engage Nakano in talking about the incident last night, either Bokuto, Akaashi or Kuroo would gently deflect them.  Still, she really looks overwhelmed, he thought to himself.  What can I do to help her out?

He turned his attention to Yamaguchi, who was standing beside him, watching Yachi as she went about her work.  Tsukki was about to speak, when suddenly Tadashi walked over to the blonde girl, who was carrying water bottles.  Tsukishima watched as a somewhat red-faced Yamaguchi asked the girl for one.  She blushed as red a tomato and handed it to him as he rubbed the back of his neck.  He walked back over to the bullpen with a smile on his face.

Tsukishima tried not to smirk, but didn't succeed.  "So...you like her, Tadashi."  It was a statement, not a question.

Yamaguchi sputtered.  "I...wh-wha...uh..why do you...I don't...aww man...am I that obvious?"  Yamaguchi gave up and looked at his friend with a sheepish grin.

Tsukishima chuckled lowly.  "To me.  I've known you a long time, remember?"

The freckle-faced boy looked at their newest manager again.  "I dunno, Tsukki, she's just...so cute, ya know?  But she's also really shy...worse than I am, I think!  I don't wanna do anything to scare her.  It's kinda hard to know what to do."

"Well, it seems to me you should be talking to her, Tadashi, not me."

Tadashi looked askance at him.  "Is this just payback for when you were all in knots about Nakano?  I seem to remember saying similar things to you."

Tsukishima gave him a wide eyed look.  "Well, it shouldn't be that hard, right Tadashi?  Just go over there and tell her you like her.  Wasn't that essentially your advice to me?"

Tadashi stared back at him, a strange smile playing on his lips.  "Shut up, Tsukki."

Tsukishima jerked back as if he'd been slapped, looking at Yamaguchi in complete surprise.  After a beat, he laughed out loud.  "There's no way I'm saying sorry to you, Tadashi," he replied.  Yamaguchi just laughed.

The day continued on.  Karasuno went outside to run the hill for the sixth time.  Nakano joined them, of course.  But halfway up the hill, she fell to the ground, unable to continue.  "Damn," she swore, looking extremely frustrated.  Tsukishima stopped to help her up. 

"Come on," he said, moving to pick her up, "we need to take care of your legs right now."  He carried her over to a bench not far from the hill.

Daichi called out to the pair.  "Tsukishima!  Is she okay?"  Several of the boys turned to look, starting to head towards them.  Nakano groaned.

"She's okay!" Tsukishima called back, "Could you have someone bring her medical bag out here?"

"Ugh, did you have to yell?" Nakano pouted, "Now they're all gonna want to come over here again.  Damn my stupid legs."

"Shut it, idiot.  You went through a lot yesterday and your legs need some rest.  I'll make sure you get some space, okay?"  Daichi was gathering the team to head back inside, trying to keep everyone from mobbing Nakano.

"I am not an idiot, idiot," Nakano said.

Tsukishima chuckled.  "Somebody is in a really bad mood today.  It's affecting the quality of your comebacks."

Nakano gave him a weary smile.  "I'm sorry.  It's just...ugh, I wish I could go back to bed.  Cuddling with you half awake was the best I've felt all day."  She started removing her braces.

Tsukishima sat down next to her, pulling her into a hug.  "That was pretty nice."  He gently played with her hair.  

"Kei," she giggled, "I can't remove my braces if you're doing this."

"Probably true," he said, "but you like it, don't you?" She could hear the smirk in his voice.

She sighed, leaning into him.  "You're not wrong."

Kageyama came jogging out of the gym, carrying Nakano's medical bag.  "Oi!  Tsukishima!"

"What is it, Your Majesty?" Tsukishima drawled out.   Nakano slapped him on the arm.

"Coach wants you in for this one, four eyes.  Suga is setting, so I'll take care of Nakano."  Kageyama handed the girl her bag.

Tsukishima sighed.  "Well this sucks," he whispered to Nakano, giving her a kiss on the lips that lingered a little longer than Kageyama would have liked.

She chuckled.  "I got this.  Go play.  Oh - tell Eri and Mako they'll have to cover Fukurodani and Nekoma for me."  Tsukki started off.  "And hey!" Nakano called.  He turned back to face her.  "Win this one for me, okay?  I don't think I should run that hill again."  She gave him a lopsided grin.

"You're not running that hill again today, no matter what happens," Tsukishima called back,  "but it would be nice to win one.  Take care of her, Your Majesty."  He disappeared inside.  But I think I've got an idea for later, Roses, the blonde thought.  I promise to take good care of you this evening.

Nakano resumed removing her braces as Kageyama sat down in the spot vacated by Tsukishima.  He looked at his best friend.  "Of all the damn guys on the team, why him?"

Nakano scoffed.  "Now don't start that again.  I am so not in the mood today, Tobio-chan."  She got the braces all the way off and started rummaging around in her bag for her cream.

"Hey," Kageyama tapped her on the shoulder.  "Can I give you a hug?"

She set her bag down and turned to fold her fellow setter into a warm hug.  "Not if I give you one first, Tobio."  The two held on to one another for awhile, both of them realizing that a tension they hadn't known they were carrying was beginning to ease.

"When Daichi told us what happened, I was so scared, Naka-chan.  I'm really glad you're alright."  Kageyama said softly into her shoulder.

"I'm okay, Tobio.  Really.  Now, how are you doing, hmm?"  She finally broke their hug, looking into his eyes.

"Me?  I'm fine.  Why wouldn't I be?"

"You're still not attempting the new quick with Shoyo.  He said you've been practicing solo in the evenings...how is it coming?"

"It's been tough, but I think I got a handle on it.  I think it's gonna come together soon.  Don't worry about me, okay."

She got started on her legs.  "No promises, Tobio.  As your self-appointed little sister, I reserve the right to worry about you all I want.  Now, why on Earth would you think you need to ask me if you can hug me?"

"Well I don't want to get you in trouble with your beanpole of a boyfriend," Kageyama retorted with a sneer.

"Tobio, give me a break.  Do you honestly think I would be with a guy who wouldn't let me hug my own best friend?  He's been around us both enough to know how we feel about each other.  Heck, you heard him say it the other night!  So what's really bugging you?"

Kageyama stared at his hands for a moment.  "Argh, I don't know," he grunted out.  "I feel...all...tight inside, like something's about to bust.  I don't know what's wrong.  But something is, and I don't know how to fix it."

Nakano looked over at him, thinking.  "Well, is it me?  Tsukki and I have been together for a little while now...are you just really not able to handle that?  Do you feel like we've become too distant from one another again?"

Kageyama took a deep breath and let it out, explosively.  "I was thinking about that too, but I don't think that's it.  I mean, you have been there, any time I've really needed to talk.  I know you having a boyfriend means we might hang out less, but I don't feel like I couldn't call you up and ask to get together if I wanted to, and I know you'd be there for me."

"Okay, what about Shoyo?  Is he bothering you?  Do you feel like he's still being unreasonable, or asking too much of you?  Do you miss practicing with him?"  Kageyama's head turned towards her.  "So, maybe you're missing your time with Shoyo?"

"How could I be missing that dumbass?  He's in my face all the time!"

"Okay, maybe not missing him per se...maybe missing the way you two interact on the court?  I know as a setter, it feels good when a spiker scores off my set.  You haven't been able to get that feeling with Shoyo for awhile now.  Could that be what's troubling you?"  Kageyama rubbed his chest like he was feeling around for something he was missing.  "Tobio, Shoyo was the first player to completely trust you after what happened to you in middle school.  Not having that feeling together is probably a little scary right now, don't you think?  Especially here, now, when we're trying so hard to improve ourselves before we take on the Spring High prelims."

Kageyama's eyes looked distant, and maybe a little scared.  "I...I don't want to lose his trust.  I want to keep playing with him, Naka-chan.  All of them.  I know they don't feel about me the way they feel about Suga..."

"Tobio, you and Suga are different people.  No one will ever feel the same way about the two of you - not Shoyo, not anybody.  But you can build and keep trust with your team - you're already doing better at that.  You said you were feeling like you were close with your new set, right?  Like a breakthrough was coming?  Do you really feel that, or were you just trying to make me feel better?"

Kageyama took another deep breath.  "No, it's true.  I've been able to put the falling set where I want it fairly often.  It's not perfect yet, but I think I can get there soon."

Nakano scoffed.  "Forget perfect, Tobio.  It sounds like you're really starting to hone this new technique.  You're just gonna have to go for it.  You'll feel it.  Put it into practice when it feels right to you.  I think that once you and Shoyo seal the deal on that new quick, you'll feel that tension dissipate.  Even if it isn't perfect right off the bat, just knowing you can do it will be enough."  I wonder, Tobio, she mused, do you feel that tension because you can't make the quick happen, or is it because you feel disconnected from Shoyo?  She looked into her best friend's eyes, trying to read what might be there.  I'm not sure even you know the answer to that question yet.  This is the second time this week we've talked about this, and this time, I can see the anxiousness in your eyes.  But is it over the new move, or about losing someone you consider your partner?

Kageyama seemed calmer as he considered Nakano's words.  "You're right, Naka-chan.  I'll know when it feels right.  It's coming.  I just gotta hold on a little longer."

Nakano decided to try to test the waters.  "Tobio, how do you feel about Shoyo?"

"Huh?  I feel fine about him.  I mean, he's annoying and his fundamentals suck and he really needs to learn to quit bouncing around like a lunatic all the time and if ever pukes on me I'd probably kill him, but other than that he's okay.  Why?"

"Do you like him?"

Kageyama seemed to consider that.  "Well, he's my teammate, so I kinda have to, I guess?  I mean, I don't hate the guy.  What's all this about?"

Nakano laughed.  "Nothing, Tobio, just curious."  You, Tobio-chan, are the biggest volleyball idiot I know...well, second maybe only to Shoyo himself, she thought.  If anything's going to happen between them, I think it might be a while before either of them figure it out.  

"Hey, Naka-chan, there's something else I wanted to ask you about."

"What's up?"

"Um...why did Bokuto-san slap me on the back this morning and call me 'little bro'?"  The boy looked thoroughly confused.

Nakano laughed again.  "Come on, I need to wash up, and we should probably head back into the gym.  I'll explain our newly formed relationship with Bokuto on the way."  She started to get to her feet, but was stopped by a firm hand on her shoulder. 

"I don't think so Naka-chan," Tobio said, crouching down with his back towards her, "Climb on."

"WHAT?"

He turned back to look at her.  "Do you honestly think I'm going to let you walk around after you collapsed again?  Do you really think I want to hear the crap that will come from your jackass boyfriend if I let you walk back into that gym?  Now climb on."

"Fair point," Nakano said, letting Kageyama carry her piggyback.  "Of course, walking in like this, with your hands on my thighs, will probably also provoke a reaction..." she said as they entered the gym.

"Aw, crap."

🏐🏐🏐

In the end, Kageyama was only the first person to carry Nakano piggyback that day.  Tsukishima had arched a brow at the pair as Kageyama carried the girl over to the bench.  "What, you'd rather I let her walk here the way she wanted to?" the setter had snapped.  "Fair point," the blonde had replied.  Kageyama had just shaken his head at how similar the two were.

After keeping Nakano confined to the bench the rest of the afternoon (which required a lot of help from the team, as Nakano was clearly not happy about being sidelined), Tsukishima called Bokuto over after the final game of the day.  

"Hey hey hey!  What can I do for ya, Tsukki-dude?" the enthusiastic ace gushed.

Tsukishima facepalmed.  "Please, Bokuto-senpai, don't call me that."

Nakano giggled.  "I really love this guy," she muttered.

"You mean me, right?" Bokuto chirped, "Of course you do, I am your oldest brother!"  He posed dramatically, hooking his thumb at himself.

Tsukishima tried to get the other boy to focus.  "Yes, Bokuto-san, and as her oldest brother, would you please carry her to Gym #3 for me?  I need to take care of a couple things before I join you there."

"Alright!  You bet I will!  So, Nakano-chan, do you want me to carry you like a princess or would you rather take a piggyback ride?" Bokuto asked.

"I think a piggyback ride would be for the best, Bokuto, thank you." Tsukishima jumped in before Nakano could answer.  

"Hey, wait a minute, what are you up to?" Nakano shot at Tsukishima as Bokuto hoisted her up on his back.  "Where are you going?"

"That's for me to know and you to find out," he smirked at her.  

"Heeereeee weee gooooo!" Bokuto cried, zooming off in a crazy zigzagging line around the gym before heading to the door.

"WOAH!!" Nakano cried, laughing as her impromptu steed went charging off.

Kuroo draped an arm around Tsukishima's shoulders.  "Are you sure that was the wisest choice, my man?  He'll run her around until she pukes, ya know.  I could have carried her."

The blonde kept his eyes on his girlfriend as she ducked to keep her head from hitting the doorframe of the gym.  "Well, Kuroo-san, Bokuto considers her his little sister, whereas we all agree that you've undoubtedly got the dirtiest mind here.  So if someone is going to be holding my girlfriend's thighs while carrying her around, I think I'd rather it be Bokuto than you, thank you very much."  

Kuroo chuckled.  "Ah, I am so misunderstood by my kohai...it pains me.  So, what exactly are you up to, anyway?"

"Just something to give her a little bit of a break tonight.  Actually, Kuroo, I could use your help with it, if you don't mind."  Tsukishima said as the pair began walking out of the gym.

About thirty minutes later, the Gym #3 squad was busily playing a three-on-three as Nakano watched them from the bleachers.  She knew the boys were right, and she really should stay off her legs, but she couldn't help but feel disappointed at missing out on the fun.  Bokuto looked near to tears when he found out she wouldn't be setting for them today, and that just increased her resolve to get back on her feet for tomorrow.  I should have better stamina than this, she thought to herself.  I mean, yesterday was scary, but it wasn't that bad.  I think maybe I've not been doing enough to keep building up my legs.  I wish I could be at a camp like this all the time.  She thought about the team's regular practices, wishing she could be a part of the line up instead of only an occasional assistant.  Maybe I should talk to Daichi about this...or maybe Coach.  I wonder if there's a way they can give me more to do than just helping out with managerial duties.  If not, I'm going to have to start looking for a way to increase my regular level of physical activity, or I'm not going to be able to keep moving forward here.  I'm hoping the return of that dream was just due to the panic I felt over that fight in the alley...but what if it was more than that?

"Heads up!" Shoyo cried out.

Nakano looked up to see the ball headed her way.  Instincts took over, and she jumped up, receiving the ball and passing it to Akaashi, who was serving as setter on the near side of the court to her.

"NAKANO!" all six boys cried out, making her jump.

"Sorry!" she called, sitting back down, "Instinct!"  

Akaashi set to Kuroo, who put the ball away past Shoyo and Lev's block.  Then all six boys made their way over to the bleachers, glaring at the blue-eyed girl.

"What?" she cried, looking at them.

"You promised you would stay off your feet, Nakano-chan," Akaashi began.

"It's no fun when I can't watch you take penalties with your team, so you need to feel better," Lev said.  Kuroo smacked him.

"And it's no fun when we can't hit your sets, right Bokuto-san?" Shoyo chimed in.

"You are right, my tiny protégé!  So stay off your feet!  You promised me more sets tomorrow!" Bokuto said, becoming a little whiny at the end.

Nakano laughed, waving her hands in front of her. "Okay, okay, I'm sorry!  I'll be good, I promise."  She pulled out her phone.  "Lemme get a picture of you guys, you are all just adorable."  The boys crowded together, squishing against Tsukishima, who wound up on the bottom left, grimacing.  Everyone threw a peace sign except Tsukki.

"Come on, Tsukki, have a little fun, will ya?" Nakano complained.  The boy sighed and put up a peace sign, still growling.  Nakano laughed and snapped the picture.

Tsukishima pulled himself out from under the other boys, causing them to stumble forward and fall apart.  "Can we get back to practicing now, please?" he groused.

Akaashi smiled.  "I think you have all our contacts, right, Nakano-chan?  Can you make a group chat and send that to us?"  

Bokuto whacked his setter on the back.  "That's a great idea, Akaashi!  We need a group chat!  Call it 'MIGHTY VOLLEYBALL GODS!'" Bokuto yelled.

Nakano laughed harder.  "Get back to work, slackers.  I'll take care of the group chat."  The boys chuckled, resuming their game.  Nakano created a new group called 'Gym 3 Squad' and sent them the photo she had taken.  Why do I get the feeling this group chat will be even more chaotic than our Crow VB one?

Before long, Kiyoko stuck her head in the doorway.  "Hey you guys, dinner is ready, so if you want to eat, you'd better get moving."  The boys cheered raucously, gathering up their gear and heading towards the cafeteria.  Nakano watched as her boyfriend exchanged a small nod with the captain of Nekoma, the bedhead dashing off out the door at a run before anyone else.

"Ready?" Tsukishima asked Nakano before picking her up like a bride.  "I'll carry you myself, this time," he whispered softly to her, "like the queen you are, Roses."

"How romantic," she murmured back, "but don't think I didn't see that.  You and Kuroo are up to something...what's going on, Kei?"

"You'll find out soon enough," he replied, walking out the door after ensuring that Nakano's medical bag was secure across his shoulder.  "How do you feel out here?  Chilly at all?"

"Chilly?  Are you nuts?  It's late July in Tokyo, Kei.  'Chilly' does not apply."  She noted that he was walking on the grass now, away from the school buildings.  "I gather we're staying outside for a while, then?"

"Mhmm.  Just relax and enjoy the ride, Roses."  Nakano smiled to herself, relaxing in his arms.

He made his way slowly towards the trees that lay a fair distance from the buildings, taking the long way around to avoid having to climb the hill they had run so often during the day.  After a while they came to an area, just before the treeline, that was dimly lit by a single lamp.  A large blanket lay spread out, with a basket on one corner.  A note sat on top of the basket.  

"What on Earth is all this?" Nakano gasped.

Tsukishima set her down gently on the blanket, placing the bags off to one side.  "Just a little surprise I arranged, with some help from Kuroo."  He handed her the note.  "I'm guessing this is from him, see what he says."  Tsukishima opened the basket.

"I put a little something extra in the basket.  Enjoy, lovebirds.  Kuroo," Nakano read.  "What did he add?"

Tsukishima chuckled as he held up two plastic wine glasses and two bottles of strawberry soda.  "For a minute, I was afraid it was going to be a beer," he grinned mischievously.

Nakano giggled.  "No, that boy has an incurable romantic streak in him, he'd have gotten champagne if we were old enough.  This whole thing is right up his street - I bet he loved it.  And so do I.  Thanks, Kei."

He sat down on the blanket next to her, opening one of the sodas and splitting it between the two wine glasses.  She took one from him and he brought their glasses together with a small plastic clack, making both of them chuckle.  "Well, I think we're alone now," he said after sipping the soda, "and Kuroo promised to run interference so that we would stay that way."

"So what brought all this on?"

"Well, you seemed like you were having a bad day.  And you had a really bad day yesterday.  I wanted to give you the chance to relax, away from everyone.  To have dinner without being swarmed by other people."

"Dinner?"

He grinned.  "Did you think this basket was just for show, Roses?"  He moved to the basket and started pulling out plates and containers.  "It's all cold food, but I thought you might enjoy a little picnic for two rather than the insanity that the dining room becomes."

"You are the best boyfriend ever," she said, her eyes twinkling merrily.

"Better than the great Oikawa?" he shot back.

"Oh my god, shut it, you idiot, and get over here and feed me.  I'm starving."

The two enjoyed a leisurely dinner, talking and laughing together at times, and sometimes just enjoying the evening quiet and the company of the other.  The sky was soon dark, and the stars shone down brilliantly, twinkling happily in the warm summer night sky.  Kuroo kept his word, and the two were undisturbed as they enjoyed their meal, including a dessert of Nakano's strawberry shortcake and more strawberry soda.  After eating, Tsukishima insisted on massaging Nakano's legs.  As he reached into her medical bag, searching for the cream, his hands came upon an unfamiliar object, wrapped in many layers of paper.  He took the thing out of the bag, staring at it.

"Hey Nakano?  What's this?"  He held the bundle up towards her.

The girl looked confused for a moment, then suddenly her face lit up with a smile as she recalled her shopping trip of the previous day.  "Oh my gosh, I forgot all about that!  That, my dear, is for you."  She gave him a coy smile.

"For me?"

"Mhmm."  She patted the soft maroon blanket, encouraging him to come sit beside her again.  "Why don't you open it?  But carefully - you might want to wrap it up again when you're done."

He sat himself down beside her, curiosity evident on his face.  She watched his long fingers gently unwrap the bundle with anticipation.  His eyes widened when he saw the ceramic figure of an acoustic guitar, not unlike the one he himself owned.  

"Roses, it's beautiful.  Where did you get this?"

Her smile widened.  "At one of the shops in town yesterday.  I just couldn't resist it."

"Yesterday?  You mean, even after everything I said..." He trailed off, looking at the girl with something akin to wonder in his eyes.  

She looked at him fondly.  "You were upset.  We both were.  Even when things like that happen, it's not like I'm gonna suddenly stop feeling the way I feel about you.  And I was missing you something awful, apparently.  Everywhere I looked, things reminded me of you.  Even the other girls noticed it.  But this was too special to pass up.  Open it."

"Huh?"  He looked at the guitar, realizing it was indeed a container.  He gently lifted the lid, revealing small, wrapped strawberry candies inside.  He chuckled, taking one out, unwrapping it, and popping it in his mouth.  He did the same with a second candy, feeding it to Nakano.  "Mmmm, I love it.  Thank you, Roses."  They shared a deeply strawberry kiss, both chuckling a little at the taste.

Replacing the guitar in the medical bag, Tsukishima grabbed Nakano's medication, and set to work on her legs.  Unlike the previous evening, he took his time, making sure to work out every stiff and sore spot she had.  As had happened during other such extended massages, this led to the two of them making out, briefly interrupted only by Tsukishima needing to wash his hands.  She laughed as he took out bottled water and some soap from the basket.

"Well you certainly did come prepared," she said, chuckling.

"Mhmm," he responded, drying his hands on a small towel he'd packed as well. "I believe I am ready for anything."

"Oh?" she smirked at him as he sat down beside her again.  "Still carrying that condom in your pocket?"  

He leaned in towards her, his eyes sparkling with mischief.  "Don't tempt me, Roses," he said huskily, smirking back at her before bringing their lips together again.

Actually, despite his bold choice of words, Tsukishima was careful not to let their make out session get too heated.   He really didn't want to have to deal with the ramifications of that outside.  Kuroo did promise to make sure we'd be left alone, he thought, but let's not tempt fate by going quite that far.  The girl was nibbling on his ear at the moment, when suddenly she sucked on his earlobe.  Shivers went up his spine as her hand slipped into his hair.  "Mmmm, your hair is so soft, gorgeous," she whispered.

Tsukishima's face heated up a little, and Nakano noticed.  "What, Kei?"

"Why do you call me that?" he asked, sounding a little embarrassed.

"What?  Gorgeous?"  He nodded.  "Because you are!" she said, gazing into his eyes.  "You do know that, right?  I have the most handsome, most gorgeous boyfriend ever!"  His blush deepened, and she giggled.  "And the most adorable, too!  Why does this make you blush, Kei?"

He glanced away from her eyes, more embarrassed than before.  "I...I don't know, really.  It just...seems like something I should be saying to you, not the other way around."  He looked into her eyes again, his hand coming to cup her cheek.  "Because you are so damn beautiful, Nakano.  Your eyes are so brilliant, so deep, I swear could drown in them.  I could spend all day just staring at you."  Now it was her turn to blush, which made him smile.

She looked away and pulled out her phone.  Going into her contacts, he watched as she changed his name from 'My Kei' to 'Gorgeous'.  He blushed again.

"I win," she chuckled.

He lay back on the blanket, gathering her close to him and letting her rest her head on his chest.  "So, how are you feeling now?"

"Much better.  My legs actually feel really good.  Thank you so much for this evening.  I didn't realize how much I needed it."

He smiled.  "I'm really glad it helped."  He paused, playing with her hair.  

"What's on your mind, Kei?"

He chuckled to himself.  She always knows, he thought, I really can't seem to hide anything from her at all.  "Well, I know you've been kind of upset all day.  I know you don't want to keep rehashing yesterday's events, and of course that was all anyone wanted to talk about today.  But...I can't help but feel like there's something else bothering you.  Will you tell me what it is?"  He felt her tense up again, prompting him to use his long, gentle fingers to rub her arms to comfort her.  "You don't have to, I don't want to upset you again."

She sighed, and he felt her begin to relax again.  "How do you do that?" she whispered.  "You're right, of course, there is something else that's been troubling me today.  Do you remember, in the middle of the night last night, you were upset and crying?  Remember I called out to you?"

"Mhmm," he said, his face coloring a little at the memory of how broken up he'd been.

"Well, right before I did, I woke up from a dream.  It's a dream I've had periodically ever since my accident.  In fact...it's a dream of my accident.  I experience it all again...every sound, every sight, every touch.  In excruciating detail."

He cuddled her close as her voice began to sound strained.  "Shhh, I'm sorry, Roses, I shouldn't have brought it up.  It sounds like a terrible nightmare."

"No, I want to tell you.  I...I need to tell you.  When I have that dream, Kei, it's a warning.  Every time I've had it, I've hit a crisis in my recovery.  If I ignore the dream, it gets progressively worse, and I relive more and more of the accident every time.  Having that dream last night, well, that's not a good sign for me."

"You had just been through something very scary.  Maybe it was just the stress from the fight that brought it on."

"I wish that were true, but I don't think that's the case.  I've never told anyone the specifics of this, Kei.  The last time I had this dream was right before I joined the team.  I'd hit a wall in my therapy, and I felt like I couldn't progress any further.  I needed something more, and the team was it.  You guys got me out of the nightmare.  The fact that it came back now...and then today I had a complete collapse...I'm starting to feel like I'm not progressing again.  I need to find a way to keep moving forward."

"Roses, you just got out of your braces not long ago.  Do you really feel like you're not progressing?  You've done a heck of a lot this week..."

"Have I?  I've not done near as much as you.  If I want to get back on the court full time, I need to be able to do more.  I can't slack off, Kei!  I want to play volleyball again!"  She stopped herself, taking several deep breaths.  "I'm sorry, I shouldn't be so selfish..."

"Shut up, Roses.  It's not selfish of you to want to be back on the court."  He held her tight, kissing her softly on the top of her head.  "What can I do?  How can I help?"

"Oh, Kei," she said, "you've already done so much.  Tonight was amazing, and I'll be honest, just voicing this has made it easier for me to deal with.  I think I'd like to talk to Coach when we get back from this camp.  Maybe there's more I can do for the team that will also help me be more active."

"That sounds like a good plan.  Will you be okay tonight?  I don't want you to wake up from a nightmare like that all alone..."

She chuckled.  "You just like being the big spoon."

He snuggled her close again.  "You're not wrong.  I'm going to miss holding you tonight."

"Can we stay here a little longer?  And can you hold me, so I can kind of store it up for later?"  

"Yeah, I think we can do that."

Chapter Text

At last the final day of the training camp arrived.  Nakano felt completely recovered the day after her collapse on the hill, and her nightmare did not recur.  She still planned to speak to both her captain and her coach after the camp, but the fear she had felt at the return of the dream eased, and she was able to enjoy her remaining time training with the boys.  And now, on the final day, she was sworn to secrecy by the coaches.  A barbecue was coming for the afternoon, and the managers were helping to prepare for it.  She'd spent part of the morning making onigiri, and now she was back in the gym, working to help her team.  

It was getting pretty late, and the final set was about to begin.  She was getting everything ready for the Karasuno-Fukurodani match when she heard some kind of commotion happening with Tanaka, Noya and Hinata.  That's no surprise, she thought, those three are always involved in something crazy.  Wait a second...are they singing about meat?  She paused to listen.  Did somebody let slip what's happening this afternoon?

Tsukki and Yams walked up to Nakano, Tsukki draping an arm over his girlfriend's shoulders.  "Um...Nakano?  What is it that I'm seeing over there?"  

Tsukki was staring across the gym with an odd expression on his face.  She turned to see what had captured his attention...and her brain froze.  Hinata, Tanaka and Nishinoya were indeed singing...and dancing...about meat.  Her jaw dropped open.

"Are they...doing a meat dance?" Yams asked, starting to chuckle.

"What is the King doing?" Tsukki asked.

Nakano focused on Kageyama, who stood nearby the other three.  He was...doing...something...apparently his own version of the meat dance, but it wasn't like what the other boys were doing.  Nakano started to snicker.  She tried to control it, but it very quickly got out of control.  She couldn't restrain herself anymore.  "Oh my god..." her voice shuddered as she attempted to control her laughter, "oh man...he's my best friend...like a brother to me...but...Kags dances like a drunk penguin!"  She exploded into hysterical laughter.

"Pffffttt!" Tsukki lost it as well, starting to laugh out loud.  Yamaguchi laughed so hard that tears rolled down his cheeks.  The three friends stood on the court, leaning on one another, trying desperately to regain some semblance of control.  Yamaguchi finally overbalanced, and sat down hard, still laughing.  Yachi ran over, calling out to the boy.

"Yamaguchi, are you okay?" She offered him her hand.  Tsukishima guided Nakano a little ways away from the pair.  

Tadashi blushed and took the girl's hand as she helped him back up onto his feet.  "Uh...yeah...thanks, Yachi.  I guess I...uh...laughed so hard I...fell...down?"  He rubbed the back of his neck.  Oh great, he thought, that makes me seem like a complete idiot.

Yachi blushed as well, but also gave Yamaguchi a smile.  "They were kinda funny dancing like that, weren't they?"  She giggled.  

Nakano gave Tsukki a look.  "Well, well," she whispered, "seems you were right."

"Mhmm," he replied softly.  "Think Yachi likes him too?"

"Gosh, I hope so," she replied, "She's so nervous all the time, it's hard to tell if she's blushing because she likes him or just because he's talking to her.  But...there are ways of finding these things out, ya know."  She smirked at him.

Tsukishima shot her a look.  "We are not relationship counselors," he muttered.  Nakano just grinned at him, and he groaned, rubbing his forehead.

"Let's go guys!" Coach Ukai called out, "Huddle up!"  The team gathered together to prepare for their final set with Fukurodani.

Nakano watched the boys play, a smile etched onto her face.  Look at the difference, she thought to herself.  A week ago, we couldn't even begin to hold our own against these teams.  Now, Fukurodani is having to work to keep us at bay, and the point gap is small.  She exulted along with her team every time a new move they'd been working on came together and succeeded, which was now occurring fairly regularly.  The best moment came when Kageyama and Hinata suddenly pulled off their new quick attack.  Nakano's eyes lit up as she saw the boys finally complete the move they'd been working on for so many weeks.  

"YEAH!!!!" she screamed, pumping her fist in the air as the freak quick duo lost it, seemingly in shock that they'd been able to complete the move themselves.  Once he'd recovered from the initial surprise, Kageyama ran to the side of the court, offering his fist to Nakano.  She charged in to the edge, completing their best-friend hug and squeezing the heck out of her fellow setter.

"You were right.  It feels unbelievable.  Thanks, Naka-chan," he whispered to her.

She laughed, heading back over to the bench to start getting water bottles ready.  Coach Ukai smiled at the strawberry blonde.  "Not too shabby for a week's work, eh, Legs?" he said.

"Pretty incredible for a week's work, sir.  I mean, we're not all there yet," she winced as Kags and Shoyo missed their second attempt at the combo, "but we're well on the way.  I think it's extraordinary how far these guys have come since our loss to Seijoh.  We've got a real shot at this thing.  This team can go to Nationals, sir, I can feel it."  Her blue eyes sparkled with pride as she watched her boys work it on the court.

"You seem to be very proud of them, Ogawa-chan," Takeda-sensei said.  

"Absolutely, sensei.  They've worked incredibly hard at this.  We've got a lot of reasons to be proud of them," she replied.

"And of yourself," Takeda added, "you've been a great help to this team, you know."

Nakano felt the color rising to her cheeks.  "I don't do much to help them out on the court, sensei."

"I don't think I can agree with that one, Legs," Ukai piped up.  "I know you helped Man-Bun there with his serve, and I'm pretty sure you worked with Nishinoya on his setting.  And you've been working with Tsukishima on his blocking in Gym #3 pretty much every evening at this camp."

"Not to mention the moral support you give to all these boys," said Takeda, "I know they all appreciate it.  Don't ever think you're not an important part of this team, Ogawa-chan."

Nakano's blush deepened and she looked away from two men.  "Th-thank you, Coach, Sensei.  I'm really glad to be able to do anything I can. I need to get these bottles ready."  She turned to move away as quickly as she could.

"One more thing, Legs," Coach Ukai said, stopping the girl.  "What would you say we need to focus on in the couple weeks we'll have before the Spring High Prelims?"

She paused, her blush fading as her analytical mind took over.  "We will need to hone the edges of these new weapons, for sure, but I'd say we also want to push fundamentals.  Drills.  Receives, serves, passing - all of it - but especially receives.  All these new weapons are useless if we can't get things started on our side of the court.  And we'll be going up against some heavy hitters in the serving department.  That's where I would focus our attention, Coach."

Ukai nodded and smiled his approval at her words.  "Better get those bottles ready, the boys will be done soon."  Coach Ukai said.  Nakano nodded and ran off.  Ukai looked at Takeda.  "She's right on the money, again.  That kid doesn't know her own worth."

Takeda nodded, looking a bit distracted.  I wonder if it's possible for us to show her just how much potential she's really got, he thought.  Something to look at when we get back to Karasuno.

The final set ended, with Fukurodani just barely managing to hold Karasuno off, 25 to 23.  The penalties were being held indoors, and Nakano joined her team for their last flying lap of the camp.  Ennoshita clapped Nakano on the back as they waited to begin.  "You know, you're really something else, Nakano," the boy said to her.

"Ennoshita-senpai?" the girl looked at him with a quizzical smile.

"I just hope you know how much it means to us all that you stand with us like this," Ennoshita said.

"Our Naka-chan's the best!" Tanaka called from the floor, "Between her, Kiyoko and Yachi, we've got to be the luckiest team here!"

Kageyama gave his best friend a quick side hug as he prepared to dive.  "They're not wrong."

"I'll agree with that!" Yamaguchi chimed in.

"WOOHOO! This is the power of Karasuno!" Noya called out as Nakano dove at the end of their line.  All of the boys cheered as they continued the penalty lap.

She slid to a stop, red-faced from more than just the flying lap.  "What is going on with you guys today?  Tanaka and Noya I expect this from, but the rest of you?"  She shook her head, diving to the floor once more.

"We just think you're pretty awesome, Nakano, and we want to make sure you know it," Hinata sang out.

"Boys," Nakano said with a warm smile, shaking her head.  "Right back atcha, guys."

🏐🏐🏐

The games were done.  Karasuno had taken a lot of penalties, but they had also shown the most growth over the course of the week.  None of the other teams would call them an easy opponent to face.  They had all made friends and forged new bonds during the week-long training camp.  And now, it was time for one last celebration together before everyone had to depart.

And this was a celebration that featured a great deal of meat.  Grilled on barbecues.  The boys were in heaven.

The girls were pretty excited too.  Nakano made her way in and around the boys, sniping food from right under their noses, filling her plate.  Meat, veggies, onigiri, fruit, and a host of other tempting items made it difficult for her to decide exactly what she wanted, so she wound up grabbing a little of everything.  She spotted Tsukki, Kenma and Yamaguchi sitting off to one side and made her way over to them.  She looked at their plates.  Hers was pretty full, as was Yams', but Tsukki had hardly anything on his.  Kenma had no plate at all.

"Did you eat all your food already?" she asked them.

"Nope," Yams said around a mouthful of meat, "they barely had anything to start with."

"Tsukki, Kenma, do I need to tell you how important it is for you to eat properly?  Especially you, Tsukki, you're always on my case about that."  She gave him a stern look, softened by the fact that she couldn't keep the merriment out of her eyes.  

At that moment, Daichi came walking up with both a plate and a mouthful of onigiri.  "Tsukishima, you gotta eat more food!" he said, the words coming out barely intelligible.  Nakano began to giggle.

Tsukishima looked at his captain blankly.  "No.  I've had enough, thank you."

Suddenly Kuroo appeared, also offering up a plate full of food.  "Come on, eat vegetables too..."  Nakano was now full on laughing out loud.

Tsukishima began to wonder exactly what was happening.  "Uhhh..."  He looked at the two captains as if they were both crazy.

"You too, Kenma!  I see you!"  Kuroo shouted at his setter.  The gamer boy sneezed and shivered up and down as he got caught out by his captain.

Daichi extended his plate towards Kenma.  "Here ya go, have some rice," he offered.  It was all Nakano could do to not fall over as she fairly howled with laughter.

Bokuto suddenly slid in out of nowhere, holding meat on skewers out to the boys.  "Meat, you gotta eat meat, Tsukki-dude!"  Tsukishima fairly yelled in fear at the unexpected meat attack.  Yamaguchi even jumped back a little in alarm.  Nakano moved in, swiping both skewers from Bokuto.

"Hey!" the ace called out, before realizing it was Nakano who'd grabbed the food.  "Oh, it's you, sis!  Make him eat, will you?"

"That's the plan, Bokuto," she took the plate from Kuroo and handed it to Kenma.  "Eat, Kenma.  At least a little, okay?  I don't think I've actually seen you consume any food this week at all and I want to make sure you know how." 

Kenma rolled his eyes at her.  "I ate at every meal, Nakano."

She smiled at him.  "Well eat some at this one, too."  Nakano reached over and grabbed the two remaining onigiri on Daichi's plate, putting one on Kenma's plate and one on Tsukki's.  "Boys, I made these myself.  So please eat them so I don't feel like my efforts went to waste."

Daichi's eyes lit up.  "You made these, Naka-chan?" he mumbled, still munching on the onigiri he was holding.  "Thank you, they're great!  I think you need to start making them for our regular practices!  I'm gonna go find some more.  My guess is you've got these boys under control."  Daichi headed back to the food tables, while Kuroo leaned over Kenma, getting him to eat.  Bokuto had already wandered back to the grills for more meat.

Nakano sat down next to Tsukki.  "So what's it gonna be, gorgeous?" she asked him, holding a meat skewer out to him.  "Are you going to eat on your own, or do I need to feed you?"

Yams chuckled.  "It is pretty cute when she feeds you, Tsukki.  I would definitely enjoy watching that again."

"Again?" said Kuroo, turning around to look at his blonde friends.  "Did I miss some fun before?"  He raised his eyebrows at the pair.

"Ughhh, fine," Tsukishima finally said, grabbing the skewer from Nakano, "but this is it."

"That, and the onigiri," Nakano said.

"WHAT?  Come on, Nakano..." Tsukki began.

She shot him a look.  "I won't force you, but I did make them and I think you'll like them."

Kuroo leaned over and 'whispered' in Tsukki's ear.  "Never reject your girlfriend's cooking dude, unless you want her to hold out on..."

"Thank you, Kuroo-san, that's enough," Tsukishima said loudly while Nakano just laughed out loud and began to eat her meat skewer.   Yamaguchi blushed down to the roots of his hair, and Kenma just rolled his eyes.

The five friends ate and talked about the adventures of the week.  There was a lot of laughing and teasing, and a few grimaces from Tsukishima.  Kuroo tormented Kenma until he ate at least half of the plate of food, and Tsukishima did finish both the meat skewer and the onigiri.  Kenma and Tsukki both complimented Nakano on her onigiri making skills, and Nakano studiously ignored the fact that Tsukki was occasionally stealing vegetables off her plate, as well as pretty much all her strawberries.

Tsukishima tried hard to keep his face composed, but couldn't entirely stop the smallest of smiles from gracing his lips.  He watched as Nakano swatted away Kuroo's chopsticks as he tried to steal the last bit of meat off her plate.  He thought back to the team as they took their final penalty lap, thanking Nakano for standing with them through the whole week, especially Hinata's comment.  You could have chosen any one of them, he thought as he looked at her, as she was smiling at something Yamaguchi had just said.  Heck, you could probably have chosen almost anyone at this camp.  Why me?  Why on Earth would you choose me, with all of these other guys around you?  He couldn't help but stare at her, wondering what it was in him that she was able to see.  She looked at him, and her already bright smile became warm, her eyes softening as she looked into his face.  She quirked an eyebrow, silently asking him what was up.  He gave her the smallest shrug and suddenly leaned his head on her shoulder, causing Yams and Kuroo to look at the pair, surprised.  She giggled, and gave him a little kiss on the head.  He leaned back, a gentle pink dusted across his cheeks.

"Did they just have a conversation without using words?" Kuroo asked Yamaguchi.

Yams nodded.  "I'm pretty sure that's exactly what they did," he said, looking at his friends with a little bit of wonder on his face.

Nakano stood, and collected the plates.  "I'll be back, boys."

"Want help with those?" Tsukki asked, preparing to get up.

"Stay," she said.  "I got this, plus I'm going to run to the ladies' room.  Don't think you can come with me for that, gorgeous."  Tsukki's cheeks darkened again as she laughed and headed off.

The four boys watched her go.  "I've said it before man, but it does bear repeating.  You are one hell of a lucky guy, Tsukishima.  I am jealous." Kuroo said with a smile.

"Lucky doesn't really do it justice," Tsukishima mumbled.

Nakano cleared the plates and walked around the side of the building where the exterior bathroom entrances were.  On her way back out, she spotted something colorful in the grass next to the outdoor sinks.  Curious, she wandered over to find seven simple water guns lying in a heap, the kind that were just tubes where you drew water in the muzzle and then shot it back out again.  Realizing something, she chuckled to herself and proceeded to stopper and fill all of the sinks with water. She then loaded a gun, and took out her phone, opening the Gym 3 Squad group chat.

Pretty Setter
Gentlemen, the game is afoot.  Come around to the outdoor sinks and you'll see what I mean.  Good luck!

That ought to pique some interest, she thought.  Now, I need to find a decent hiding place.  She took up position around the far side of the building and waited.

Bokuto wandered up to Kuroo and Tsukishima, holding out his phone.  "Hey hey hey!  Did you guys get this text from Nakano-chan?  What does she mean?"

"We were just wondering about that, Boku-bro," Kuroo said as he stood up.  "Should we go check it out?"

"Wait a minute, lemme find Akaashi," the ace said.  He looked around him briefly, not seeing his setter anywhere.  "AAAAAAAKAAAAAAAAAAAASHIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIII!" he suddenly bellowed out, causing Tsukishima to cover his ears and flinch backwards.  

"Sorry," Kuroo said to the blonde, uncovering his own ears.  "I should have warned you." Tsukishima groaned and covered his face with his hands.  And these are my senpais? he thought to himself.

"Bokuto-san, you could have just texted me," Akaashi said, joining the group.  "I assume you're talking about Nakano-chan's text?"

Suddenly all four boys got another notification.

Tangerine
I'm gonna get you first, Naka-chan!

Pretty Setter
Really?  The rest of you guys are gonna let Hinata snipe you? 😏

Stupidly Tall Boy
You'll never find her from down there, Shoyo.  I'll get her first.

"Oh man, Hinata and Lev already figured out what's going on!  Come on, guys, let's go!"  Bokuto started running in the direction of the outdoor sinks, the other boys following.

Tsukishima was not too sure about what was going on.  What did they mean by 'getting' his girlfriend first?   If anybody is gonna be getting anything from Nakano first, it's gonna be me, he thought, his hands clenching into fists.  He started running, his long legs carrying him quickly past the other boys and around the side of the building.  He saw Lev and Hinata  each holding something colorful, looking around...

And suddenly he took a shot of water straight to the chest.  He growled at Hinata, who stood not far from him, laughing.  "Got you, Tsukishima!" the tangerine head called.

"Oh, so that's what this is about," called Kuroo, holding up his hands.  "Hey, truce for a moment, at least let us properly arm ourselves!"  Kuroo grabbed Tsukki's arm and led him to the pile of water guns by the sinks.  Tsukishima grabbed a gun and loaded it, heading straight for Hinata, unloading his entire gun at the shorter boy.  Before long, all six boys were dashing around the open yard area, shooting each other and yelling.  Waiting until the boys were completely distracted with their own battles, Nakano came dashing around the corner and plowed around them, managing to shoot each one, catching Shoyo and Akaashi in the face from point-blank range.  She hightailed it to the sinks to reload, taking as much cover as she could from the low walls around the area.

"Hey!  No fair, don't aim for the face!" Hinata cried, dashing water from his eyes.

"Whatsamatter, short stuff, gonna melt?" Kuroo said, plugging him from behind.

Tsukishima slid into the sink area to reload, spotting Nakano.  "Why are we doing this?" he gasped at her, slightly out of breath from chasing Hinata down and soaking him.  

"Because it's fun!" she said, grinning at him.  "And because I've always wondered what Bokuto looks like with his hair down."  Her grin turned wicked and she dashed out, followed by Tsukki.  Both swept past the ace, who was focused on trying to hit Lev, and unloaded their guns straight at his hair.  Nakano laughed hysterically as she headed back to the sinks.  "WET OWL!!" she cried out.

"Nakano-chan!  I can't believe you would do this to your own brother!" Bokuto chased after the girl, but Tsukki was between them and took the brunt of his shots.

All three made it back to the sinks, where Bokuto quickly reloaded and turned to shoot Nakano.  "Wait!" she cried, "do you wanna get me, or would you rather see Kuroo's hair plastered to his head?"  She reloaded her gun as Bokuto's grin matched her own.  Tsukishima once again followed as the other two dashed out, this time rounding Kuroo and unloading everything at his head.  

"What the hell?!" Kuroo sputtered as he got soaked, his hair collapsing around his face.  

"DROWNED CAT!" Nakano called as she ran back to the sinks again, followed by Tsukishima.  Bokuto had come to a halt, laughing uproariously and pointing at Kuroo's hair.  Lev had also stopped in his tracks and was laughing so hard he was shaking.  Kuroo walked up to the lanky boy, stuck his gun down the front of Lev's shorts and pushed in the plunger.  The boy yelped as the cold water hit his lower body.  "Never make fun of your captain, idiot," Kuroo said with a growl.

Hinata pointed at Lev and laughed.  "You look like you peed yourself!"  Lev unloaded his gun at Hinata's face, causing the boy to sputter and complain about face shots again.

Tsukishima and Nakano reloaded and hid behind the sinks.  "What now?" Tsukki asked the girl, his cheeks bright red and a small smile playing on his lips.  He was having fun, despite himself.  I can't believe she gets me to do these things, he thought.  Hell, more than that, I can't believe I enjoy doing these things just because she's with me.  

She leaned over, her own cheeks also red and her breath coming quickly.  "This," she said, capturing his lips with her own.  Their kiss lasted only a few seconds before they felt cold water hit their faces.  

Akaashi smirked at the couple.  "Revenge is sweet, Nakano-chan."

Kuroo looked around the sinks to see the strawberry blonde girl.  "Has anyone else noticed that Nakano-chan seems to be the driest person here?" he said reloading his gun.

Nakano dashed off, rounding the sinks and heading out towards a nearby tree, with all six boys reloading to pursue.  Unfortunately for her, she slid in the wet grass, hitting the ground just as Bokuto was pelting her with water and catching up.  The boy tried to pull up short to avoid stepping on her and instead slipped and fell into her, followed almost immediately by Akaashi falling down on top of them both.  Shoyo was the next to arrive at the pile, he stopped carefully, looking down at Nakano, as all three of them laughed.

"Hey, Naka-chan, are you okay?" Shoyo asked.

"We're fine, why don't you join us!" Bokuto said as he pulled on Hinata's leg, causing him to fall down onto the pile.

Kuroo and Tsukishima approached carefully, being sure to keep their feet away from any grasping hands.  "You guys look ridiculous," Kuroo said, shooting Nakano wherever parts of her were visible.

And then, Lev arrived.  "DOG PILE!" he cried, crashing into both Kuroo and Tsukishima and taking them down along with himself onto the mound of wet people. 

"Lev-kun, you're a cat, not a dog," Akaashi groaned, trying to move any limb he could to start untangling himself from everyone.  None of them seemed to able to be freed.

Nakano groaned underneath the weight of six boys.  "Oof, you guys are heavy," she chuckled out.

"Well if you hadn't started this you wouldn't be squished right now, would ya?" Bokuto said.

The crew was slowly managing to undo themselves when Kageyama walked up, staring at them.  "What the heck are you guys doing?  It sounded like there was a war going on over here," the raven-haired boy said.

"There was," Hinata sang out.

"And you lost," Nakano added, as seven water guns were emptied at Kageyama.

🏐🏐🏐

At last it was time to head back to Miyagi.  Nakano helped Kiyoko and Yachi load the team's gear and bring it to the bus.  Once all the bags were stowed, she looked around for Tsukishima.  She spotted him talking to Kuroo and Bokuto.  She headed over that direction, but was stopped by a long pair of arms wrapping around her from behind and above.

She laughed.  "Lev, why are you so tall?"

"I dunno.  Why are you so short?"

"Hey!  I'm pretty tall!  I'm taller than Shoyo!" she exclaimed in mock anger.

"Yeah, but pretty much everyone is, so that's not really much of an achievement."

"Don't grow any more before Nationals, okay?"

"No promises, Nakano-chan!  Take care!"  Lev released the girl as Akaashi approached her.

"May I have a hug too, Nakano-chan?" the blue-eyed setter asked her.

"Oh Akaashi," Nakano said with a fond smile, wrapping the boy in a warm hug, "you really are the exact opposite of Bokuto, aren't you?"

"I try to be, most of the time," he replied honestly, "which is why I won't spin you around, even though it would be kinda fun."

"He's going to spin me, isn't he."  It wasn't really a question.

"I'd certainly be prepared for it," the setter responded as the two walked over to where Kuroo, Bokuto and Tsukishima were saying their goodbyes.  

"My sweet little sister!" Bokuto cried, catching Nakano up in a big hug and twirling her around.  "I'm going to miss you so much!"  Nakano laughed, and Tsukishima tried hard not to look too irritated, knowing she would get upset if he did.

"This has been so much fun, Bokuto.  Thank you for everything," Nakano gasped out as the energetic boy finally put her down and gave her another squeeze.

"I wish you didn't have to go," he pouted at her.

"But I do," Nakano said, giving the boy a little peck on the cheek.

"They grow up so fast!" Bokuto sobbed, leaning on Akaashi, who patted his captain gently on the back and rolled his eyes.

Kuroo gave Nakano a big smile.  "Alright girlie, if he gets a peck on the cheek, then I'd better darn well be getting one too."  He opened his arms wide and gathered her in.

"I wouldn't dare leave you out, Kuroo," she said, giving him a little kiss as well.  "I'm going to miss you guys!"

"Same here," Kuroo said softly.  

Bokuto grabbed Tsukishima by the shoulders.  "Tsukki-dude, I am leaving my precious little sister in your care," Bokuto's voice cracked as he looked intensely at the blonde.  "Keep her safe.  Don't let anything happen to her.  I'm counting on you."

"I promise to do my best, Bokuto-san," Tsukishima said in a rather deadpan voice, and with a very irked look on his face.  How many fake brothers am I going have to deal with in this relationship? he thought to himself.  Nakano and Kuroo fought hard not to laugh out loud.

"Tsukishima," Kuroo said, offering the boy his hand, "I'm looking forward to seeing you at Nationals."

"Thank you for everything, Kuroo-san," Tsukishima said, shaking the captain's hand and putting his other arm around Nakano. 

The two started towards Karasuno's bus, as Kenma came walking up.  "Kenma!" Nakano called out.  "Thanks for everything!"  She gave the boy a hug, startling him.

"Bye, Nakano.  I hope next time we meet, you'll make onigiri again for me," he said with a small smile.

"And strawberry shortcake!" called out Bokuto, who looked like he might cry at any moment.  

"And katsudon!" said Kuroo, waving.

Tsukishima clicked his tongue.  "Clearly the next time they see you they're hoping to lock you in a kitchen."

"Can I help it if I'm such a good cook?"  Nakano turned and waved a last goodbye to the boys, seeing Bokuto suddenly plunk his face into Kuroo's shoulder.

Tsukishima heaved a deep sigh as the pair boarded the bus.  "Man, I'm glad that's over."

Nakano slapped his shoulder gently.  "You enjoyed a lot of that, so don't even try, gorgeous.  Despite your best efforts, you actually made some friends on this trip.  I think it's good for you."

"Ugh, whatever," Tsukishima pulled her into a double seat and settled them down.  Of course, as usual, she's not wrong, he thought, a small smile appearing on his lips.  "Can I please just take a nap on you now, Roses?" he whispered in her ear.  

"Only if you admit that you did have at least a little fun on this trip," she said with a smirk.

He nuzzled himself into her shoulder.  "There were some rather pleasant moments," he whispered, "when we didn't have a half a dozen people all over us."  He kissed her neck, making her squirm a little.  "I liked those times." 

She giggled, letting him cuddle into her and getting herself settled as well.  "Okay, I guess you can nap on me then."  She threaded a hand into his soft blonde hair.

Before long, the bus pulled away.  Most of the team, exhausted from a long week and full of good food, were already falling asleep.  The bus had only been in motion a few moments when Nakano's phone vibrated in her pocket.  She took it out, as Tsukishima did the same.

"Group chat?" she asked.

"Gym 3 Squad," he said, rolling his eyes.

Boku-bro
I MISS YOU GUYS ALREADY!

Kuroo-bro
Dude, we can literally still see their bus driving away.

Boku-bro
That doesn't mean I miss them any less.

Pretty Setter
Miss you too, oldest brother.

Boku-bro
SHE MISSES ME!!! 😍

Skinny Jeans
Why do you encourage him?

Pretty Setter
Isn't that my job? 😏

Pretty Boy Setter
Bokuto-san why are you making me text when I'm right next to you?

Boku-bro
So everybody else can see it, hellllooooo?

Stupidly Tall Boy
Why is everybody texting already?  They just left.

Skinny Jeans
Bokuto-san is needy.

Boku-bro
I AM NOT!  Just lonely.

Pretty Boy Setter
Of the six other people in this chat, two of them are standing next you.

Stupidly Tall Boy
Where's Shoyo?  How come he's not texting?

Pretty Setter
LOL That's an easy one.

Boku-bro
Awwwww, my little tangerine student is so cute when he's asleep!

Kuroo-bro
What is Kageyama dreaming about do you think?

Skinny Jeans
Probably getting soaked by a pile of people with water guns.

Pretty Setter
LOL That was so perfect.

Pretty Boy Setter
Do you think he's still mad at you?

Pretty Setter
Nah he's fine.  Well maybe a little.  He'll get over it.  I'll make him pork curry.

Stupidly Tall Boy
Oh man, I want some pork curry!

Boku-bro
ME TOO!

Skinny Jeans
Why is my girlfriend cooking for all these other guys?

Pretty Setter
Shut it you or no more strawberry shortcake.

Kuroo-bro
Ooooh, them's fightin' words.

Kei looked up and arched a brow at Nakano.  She giggled and kissed him on the nose.  He gave her a wicked smirk.

Skinny Jeans
I just got something better than strawberry shortcake.

Stupidly Tall Boy
WOAH!  Aren't you guys on the bus with your team?

Pretty Boy Setter
Pretty daring, you two.

Kuroo-Bro
Exhibitionists.

Boku-bro
Wait what?  What's he doing to my sister?

Kuroo-bro
I think the real question is what did she do to him?  😏

Boku-bro
WHAT!?

Pretty Setter
OMG I gave him a kiss on the nose!  Now get your minds out of the gutter, boys.

Skinny Jeans
Just what did you guys think I meant? 

Kuroo-bro
Okay, it is kinda making me sad to think we might not see each other again until Nationals.

Pretty Setter
You know, Miyagi is only 2 hours from Tokyo on the Tohoku Shinkansen.

Boku-bro
Hey she's right!  Let's go to Miyagi guys!

Kuroo-bro
Dude, chill.  They aren't even in Miyagi yet, we'd beat them there.  But...I do like the idea, girlie.  Better watch out, we might just show up on your doorstep sometime.

Pretty Setter
Or maybe we'll be knocking on your door.  Now hush up and let us take a nap.

Kei groaned quietly.  "You just had to remind of them of the bullet train, didn't you, Roses," he whispered as the two put their phones away.  Nakano shushed him and cuddled him close, linking their hands together.  Both were soon sound asleep as the bus made its way back to Karasuno.

Chapter Text

It was late when everyone finally made it home from the long trip back from Tokyo.  Nakano had gotten home at last, and then had been attacked by her mom, wanting to know everything about her trip.  She managed to satisfy her mom's curiosity after about a hour, and was finally released to collapse into her bed.  Her night routine was finished, and she was physically tired, but mentally she was still wide awake.  The long naps on the bus ride had apparently thrown everyone off, because the Crow VB group chat was pinging.  She opened her phone and jumped in.

Freckles
I can't believe everyone is still awake at this point!

Man Bun
Well, we did all sleep pretty soundly on the bus.  

Guardian Deity
Yes.  Yes you did. 😏

Queen
OMG Suga and Asahi are so precious!

Buzz Cut
They breathe in sync!  What's up with that?

Suga
Daichi, are you still alive?

Freckles
It does look like he's not breathing there...

Villager B
Is Daichi okay?  He's hasn't answered...

Glasses
I'm sure the Captain is fine, maybe he's actually sleeping now like the rest of you should be.

Goddess
Tsukishima has a point, you guys should be resting up.

Suga
For what?  We don't have practice for two days.

Freckles
After all those days in a row, it sounds so weird to say that.

Goddess
I'm grateful I don't have to cook tomorrow.

Man Bun
Actually, I'm going to miss your cooking.  You all made some amazing food!

8 Ball
Yeah, we did eat well this past week.

King
Naka-chan, can you make strawberry shortcake for the next practice?

Goddess
Kageyama, she just made it at the camp.

Glasses
For once I agree with the King.

Lucky 7
I agree with that idea too!

Villager B
It was a really good cake, Nakano.

Glasses
See, you have to make it Naka-chan.

King
Please?

Queen
OMG you guys are gonna be the death of me. 

King
Is that a yes?

Guardian Deity
I think it is.

Man Bun
Guys, don't pressure her.

Buzz Cut
Pretty please?

Captain
Pretty please with a cherry on top?  Especially since I'm hurt that I'm not precious.

Queen
O CAPTAIN MY CAPTAIN!  You are our fearless leader and we adore you.  LOL Guess I'm doing some baking tomorrow.

Six Shooter
AWESOME!  Thank you, Naka-chan!  And thank you Captain!

Suga
I think Daichi might need another encouragement kiss too Naka-chan. 😏😘

Glasses
I'm sorry, that won't be possible.  All of her encouragement kisses are reserved for the foreseeable future.

Queen
Awww Tsukki, do you need a lot of encouragement right now? 😏

8 Ball
Okay, this sounds like something you should discuss on a private chat, please.

Lucky 7
Don't they live close to each other?  

Villager B
Don't tease them guys!

Ginger
Actually they do!  And Nakano has a volleyball court in her backyard and everything!  Her house is awesome.  We should all play volleyball at her house!

Lucky 7
Sounds like fun.

Guardian Deity
WOAH you have your own volleyball court Naka-chan?

8 Ball
That is way cool.  No wonder she's so good.

Ginger
Can we Naka-chan?  Can we play at your house tomorrow? Coach won't let us practice at the gym but I don't want to wait two whole days!

King
I'd be up for that.

Queen
I agree it would be fun guys but I'd have to ask my mom first.  And at the moment I think she's asleep.

Captain
Come on guys, that's really a lot to ask on such short notice.

Glasses
Can't you guys live for one day without volleyball?  OMG we just got back from a solid week of constant practicing.

Lucky 7
But this would be volleyball in the backyard!  It would be fun!

King
Your mom wouldn't mind, Naka-chan.  You know how she is.

Man Bun
Seriously guys, I think we're asking way too much of Nakano.

Glasses
Asahi-senpai is right.

Six Shooter
It would be nice to hang out with just our own guys for a change.

Villager B
Yeah!  Like team bonding!

Six Shooter
Exactly!

Freckles
But maybe tomorrow isn't the best day.

Man Bun
We could plan it for some time in the future.

Buzz Cut
But we're going to be practicing like crazy soon for Spring Prelims!

Lucky 7
Guys come on.  Don't make Nakano feel bad.  We don't have to get together tomorrow.

King
Sorry Naka-chan.  It just does sound like so much fun.

Queen
Okay, here's the deal.  Be here at 3pm.  Bring something to drink to share.  My mom says she will supply the pizza, and I'll be baking the strawberry shortcake.  Volleyball is optional but certainly available.  We'll be hanging out in the backyard the whole time so dress for the weather.  See you guys tomorrow!  I'm going to sleep, because I have to get up tomorrow and bake!

Glasses
WHAT!?

Buzz Cut
BACKYARD PARTY AT NAKANO'S!!!

Captain
Nakano are you sure about this?

8 Ball
Seriously?

Six Shooter
I'll be there!

Man Bun
Nakano I feel like we made you do this.

Goddess
Indeed.  Are you sure your mom is alright with this?

Queen
I'm sure.  My mom is fine with it, and I'm happy to do this for my team.  You guys are the best.  Please come and no you are so not imposing.  Goodnight you guys.

Captain
Alright!  See everyone tomorrow at Nakano's!  Hope you all can make it!

The Crow VB chat pinged a little longer with plans and goodnights.  Nakano turned her attention to something else, however.

Queen Setter 🏐
Kei what's wrong?

Gorgeous 💖
We just got back from a huge camp.  We spent a whole week with them.  Why do we need to spend another day with them?

Queen Setter 🏐
I know.  But they seemed so into the idea.  And I owe the team so much...this is something so simple that I can do for them.  Mom's been bugging me about meeting the rest of the team anyway.  So I figured why not?  We don't have to play, we can just relax and hang around with everyone.

Gorgeous 💖
You're such an idiot.  A volleyball idiot.  There's no way you'll stay off your own court.

Queen Setter 🏐
Fair point.

Nakano sighed, feeling like she'd been a little blind to Kei's needs.  He hadn't said anything, but maybe he was planning to ask me to get together tomorrow, just the two of us.  She pouted to herself.  Well, we're also not practicing on Monday.  Maybe it's time for me to put my little plan into action.  She smiled to herself.  It then dawned on her that Kei hadn't said anything for a bit.

Queen Setter 🏐
Hey...please don't be mad.  I promise I'll make it up to you.

Gorgeous 💖
Look up, Roses.

Her eyes flew to her window to see her boyfriend sitting precariously on the outer ledge.  She hurried to open it, giving him a shocked look.  "What on Earth are you doing here?"  She helped him inside.

He wrapped his long arms around the girl, kissing the top of her head.  "Oh Roses, what am I going to do with you?  Such a volleyball idiot."

"Yeah, but I'm your volleyball idiot," she said, grinning.  "And I will make it up to you."

"I was hoping to spend these two days together.  We've only got a month left of summer vacation, and half of it will be eaten up with the Spring Prelims.  Now we have to spend tomorrow with the team too."

"But you can come over early and help me make the strawberry shortcake," she said, giving him a sweet smile.

He pouted.  "Not the same," he said, not looking at her.

She took his face in her hands, making him look at her.  "Then please go out with me on Monday.  Let me take you on a date this time."

He cocked his head.  "Hmmmm...I'll have to check my calendar..."

"Oh?" she said, turning away from him and grabbing her phone, "Well, if you're not free, I'll just text Kuroo then.  I'm sure he'd take the bullet train and join me for the day."

He took the phone from her hands and dropped it on her bed.  "Don't push your luck, Roses," he said taking her in his arms again, "Mine."  She giggled, making him smile.  "I'd love to go on our third date on Monday." He kissed her sweetly, and they lingered in it, sinking down on to her bed.  After several minutes of gentle kissing, he cuddled her close to his chest.  "I wish I could stay here with you."

She sighed.  "Me too.  I sleep better when you're with me.  But I don't think we can pull that one off.  Heck, I can't believe you're here again like this!  What are you gonna do if you get caught trying to get back in?"

Tsukishima rubbed the back of his neck, looking embarrassed.  "Well...I kinda already got caught on the way out."

"What?"  Nakano's eyes went wide.

"My brother's home for a visit.  He caught me slipping out of my bedroom."

"So what did you tell him?"

"He sorta got the truth out of me.  He knows I've got a girlfriend, and that she lives close by.  And...he agreed to cover for me tonight...if I bring her home for a visit the next time he comes home."

Nakano paled.  "So this means..."

"Yep.  It's your turn to meet my mom.  Akiteru says he's going to be back next weekend.  So it's my job now to tell my mom about us and arrange for us to all have dinner together."

"Oh boy," Nakano looked sick.

"Hey, it's not that bad.  We've already done the hard one, this should be easy."  Why does she look so upset? he wondered.  Surely she can't think my mom would disapprove of her.

Nakano looked at him, sweat beginning to form on her brow.  "Oh yeah, because nothing goes better with a lovely dinner than meeting your son's crippled girlfriend." Nakano's voice was small and shaky.

"Roses, stop that."  He took her by the shoulders and gently shook her.  "You are not crippled.  For crying out loud, you recently kicked the crap out of three thugs in a Tokyo alley.  You're more able-bodied than most of the girls I know.  So stop worrying."  He held her close again, petting her hair.  "Mom and Akiteru are gonna love you."  He could feel her taking deep breaths, trying to calm herself.

She just stayed in his arms a while, trying to relax.  When she finally spoke, she changed the subject.  "So your brother was home when you got in, hmm?  Did you talk with him?"

Wow, she is really scared about meeting my family, he thought.  She changed the subject, and to that one, knowing how I often react to that.  Well, we've got a week to work on it.  "Mhmmm," he kissed the top of her head again.  "You were right.  It was...an interesting conversation."

She smiled up at him.  "Maybe you'll tell me about it sometime?"

He couldn't help but smile back.  "Maybe.  But for tonight, I should probably get back home.  It's really late, and apparently, I have to come over here tomorrow to help you make strawberry shortcake."

They said their goodnights, and after another kiss, Kei slipped back out the window.  Nakano watched him go until she could no longer see him.  As he jogged home, he pulled the condom Akiteru had insisted on giving him out of his pocket and looked at it.  Good thing I didn't tell her about this, he thought, chuckling to himself.  I think her brain might have exploded, knowing that my brother assumes such things are already happening.  Why does everyone think that's all we're interested in?  She means so much more to me than that.  When Akiteru had demanded he tell their mother about his girlfriend, he'd been irritated, not wanting to deal with the teasing that was likely to come.  Now, he felt almost excited to tell her.  I want to show them how much she means to me, he thought, how amazing she is.  How lucky I am to have her.

🏐🏐🏐

Nakano stretched and yawned as she finally began to drag herself out of bed for the day.  Ten in the morning, she thought, I bet my mother has been up for hours cleaning, and I'm about to get lectured at for not getting up earlier to help.  She smirked, making her way into her bathroom to grab a quick shower.  Her phone went off.

Gorgeous 💖
So...are we making strawberry shortcake or what?

Queen Setter 🏐
You bet.  But I just woke up, so give a me a little time.

Gorgeous 💖
So lazy.  Will you need ingredients?

Queen Setter 🏐
Just strawberries and heavy cream.  I'm sure we have everything else I need here.  Wait, maybe eggs too.

Gorgeous 💖
Let me guess - you haven't even showered yet.

Queen Setter 🏐
I am literally about to step into it now.

Gorgeous 💖
Does that mean I'm texting my girlfriend while she's naked? 😲😏

Queen Setter 🏐
Maybe.  Pull yourself together gorgeous. 💋

Gorgeous 💖
I'm halfway to the market.  I'll pick up what we need and be there soon.  Try to be dressed before I get there or we might never get around to making the shortcake.  😏

Queen Setter 🏐
KEI!  What has gotten into you today? 

Gorgeous 💖
LOL See you soon Roses.

Queen Setter 🏐
KK.  Get 4 lbs of strawberries, a quart of heavy cream, and a dozen eggs.  That should be plenty for our purposes.  Thank you!  💕😘😍

Gorgeous 💖
OMG quit it with the emojis.

Nakano laughed and started getting ready.  She smiled to herself.  This is going to be a lot of fun, she thought.

Thirty minutes later, Nakano emerged from her bedroom.  As predicted, her mother did give her some grief for sleeping in and not helping prepare the house, but not as bad as she thought she'd get it.  Her mother was more bothered by the fact that Nakano chose to dress in a comfortable pair of blue shorts and a cute panda tee shirt.  

"You've got company coming over, Naka-chan!  You should wear something pretty," her mom complained.

"Mom, it's my team.  They are gonna want to play volleyball.  What's the point in getting all dolled up to have to change clothes?"

"But isn't Kei-chan coming over too?"

"Actually, he'll be here soon - he's bringing the ingredients we need for the strawberry shortcake."

"But you don't even have your face done yet!"

"Mom, I don't 'do my face'.  Makeup isn't a good idea when you plan on getting all sweaty playing volleyball."

"But I'm sure Kei-chan would love it if you..." The doorbell sounded.

"Oh well, too late, he's here!" Nakano sprang to let Kei in, and her mother just rolled her eyes.

"Pardon the intrusion," Kei murmured as Nakano grabbed the bags from him and kissed him on the forehead.

"Oh my word you are so not intruding," Nakano whispered to him, "Please save me from my mother, who wants me to put on makeup and a fancy outfit to play volleyball."

Kei chuckled.  "Has she met you?" he whispered back, changing into house slippers.

"Hello Kei-chan!"  Emiko called as the two came in to the kitchen.

"Good morning, Emiko-san," Kei greeted her with a small bow.  

Emiko chuckled.  "Thank you for picking up the groceries.  Please let me know how much it was so I can repay you."

"There's no need, Emiko-san.  Thank you for allowing the team to gather here today," Kei replied, starting to unpack the bags. 

"Well, alright then.  Have fun baking you two," Emiko said as she left them.

Nakano turned to Kei, about to say something in regards to her mother's need to frilly her up, but stopped short when she saw Kei's face.  The look he wore was a curious combination of shy and mischievous.  His cheeks were gently pink, and his hands were behind his back.  He'd come to a decision last night, as he lay in bed, thinking about Nakano's reaction to the idea of meeting his family.  He found it hard to believe, but clearly Nakano did not think she was going to be considered worthy of being his girlfriend by his mother.  After considering a few ideas, he decided that maybe the best way to help her see how wrong she was would be to show her, rather than to try to tell her, as she didn't seem to listen to him when it came to such things.  Kei really wanted her to know that he thought she was amazing.  Plus, he knew that he'd have to bear up under whatever teasing Akiteru and his mother might put them through.  So he'd decided he would try to be a little more romantic for his girlfriend today, even with the team around.  He knew that if he could survive whatever the team threw at him, he could survive anything.

And so, he stood in front of Nakano, slightly blushing, as she tried to figure out the look on his face.

"Kei?  Is something the matter?"

A smile touched his lips as he brought his hands out from behind him and gave Nakano a single rose, white with pink tips, nestled in greenery and baby's breath.  "I saw this, and it reminded me of you, Roses."  She took the flower from him, a gentle smile on her face.  She inhaled the soft fragrance.  He took her chin in his hand, and leaned forward to her.  "But you are so much more beautiful."  He delicately kissed her lips.

"What has gotten into you today?" she whispered, looking a little awestruck.

"What?" He smirked at her.  "I can't do something romantic for my girlfriend?"

"Oh absolutely!  Don't get me wrong, romantic gestures are totally approved.  At all times," she said quickly, "I just..."  She looked at him and blushed.  "Do you really think I'm beautiful?" she asked, her voice soft.

"What a silly question, Roses," he whispered to her, "I think you're the most beautiful girl I've ever seen."  He kissed her again, lingering longer this time.  Have I really not told her how beautiful she is?  Kei thought back, trying to remember if he'd ever said it to her, or if he'd only thought it.  Clearly, even if I have, I haven't said it enough.  

"Should I just run to a bakery?  Otherwise I don't think the team will be getting any strawberry shortcake today,"  Emiko leaned on the doorframe of the kitchen, a smile on her face.  

Nakano and Kei both jumped back, each turning a deep shade of red.  Emiko laughed.  "Let me get you a bud vase for that lovely rose, Naka-chan," her mother said, walking off.

Nakano and Kei looked at each for a beat, then laughed.  "Oops," Kei said, smirking at the strawberry blonde.  

"That's what you get for doing your romantic gestures in the kitchen," Nakano said, "Come on, let's get started on these cakes."

Several hours later, two strawberry shortcakes were chilling in the refrigerator.  The creation of said cakes, however, had involved rather a lot of laughing, teasing, and at least one flour war.  The pair had cleaned up the kitchen, but now looked at each other chuckling.  Both of them had flour all over their faces, arms, and their clothing.

"I guess we'd better get cleaned up, huh?" Kei said as he looked down at his flour-covered tee shirt, "Looks like I'm going to need to run back home."

"Nah, you're about my dad's size, I'm sure my mom won't mind if you borrow one of his tee shirts.  How bad off are your shorts?"  Nakano looked down at his lower half.

He dusted his shorts off.  "Not bad, I think I can get away with wearing them.  Are you sure your mom won't mind me wearing one of her husband's shirts?"  Kei looked a little doubtful.

"Let's ask," Nakano wandered into the living room to find her mom watching television.  "Hey, mom?"

Emiko looked up at the two teens and laughed.  "Oh wow.  Looks like you two had fun.  Kei-chan, do you need a tee shirt to change into?  You look to be about Tanjiro's size."

"See?  I told you she wouldn't mind," Nakano said with a smile, "I'm gonna go wash up.  Kei, just meet me in my room once you're cleaned up, okay?  Thanks, Mom."

Emiko asked Kei to follow her upstairs.  He waited in the hallway as she entered the master bedroom, returning shortly with a tee shirt.  She handed it to the boy and showed him to the hall bathroom so he could change.

"Kei-chan?" Emiko called as he headed into the bathroom.  He turned back to face his girlfriend's mother.  "Naka-chan hasn't been over to your house yet, has she?"

"No ma'am," Kei answered, "but I am planning to ask her to come over soon.  My mother and brother would very much like to meet her."  Glad I told my mom this morning, he thought, I really don't want to have to lie to Nakano's mom...not even a little white lie.  It's just a bad habit I don't want to get into.

Emiko's face burst into a smile.  "Oh good.  I'm glad to hear that."  She looked rather relieved.

Kei gave the woman a small smile.  "Emiko-san, I meant what I said that night.  Nakano means a great deal to me.  I...I may not always be the best at saying it or showing it, but it's true.  And...well, I'm working on that.  I want her to know how special she is."

She patted the boy on the shoulder.  "I'm sorry, Kei-chan.  You're such a sweet boy, and I shouldn't worry so much."  Tsukishima started at her description of him.  "But I do, I worry so much about Naka-chan.  She's been through so much, and she's so...fragile..."  The woman's face contorted with worry, and her eyes became almost haunted.  "It's so hard sometimes, to know how to care for a child who's been so hurt."

Tsukishima's face held both sympathy and shock.  "Emiko-san, I don't know everything, but I do know she's been through some very difficult things.  I know she'll share her stories with me as she's ready to, so please, don't feel like you have to tell me anything at all.  But, I have to differ with you on one point."  Emiko looked into the boy's eyes, curious.  "She's not fragile.  In fact, she might very well be the strongest person I've ever met."

It was Emiko's turn to register shock on her face.  She gave Tsukishima a small smile, and handed him a washcloth she pulled from the hall closet.  "When you're done, just leave your shirt and washcloth in here.  Thank you, Kei-chan.  Now you'd better hurry, before Naka-chan comes looking for you."

Before long, it was almost three o'clock.  Nakano set up her phone and her speakers in the window of her bedroom to play music out over the backyard.  The volleyball court was cleaned up and ready.  A table was set up in the yard as well, for food and drinks.  Emiko brought out a large ice chest and plenty of cups, as well as strawberry sodas and some onigiri she'd made that morning.  After placing a sign on the front door directing the team to come right to the backyard, Nakano and Kei sat on a bench, strawberry sodas in hand.  Nakano was leaning back on her boyfriend's chest, his arm around her, holding her close.  

"Bets on who's gonna arrive first?"  She asked.

"I won," he smirked, "I've been here since about 11 this morning."  She smacked his leg lightly and laughed.

"Hey guys!" Tadashi called as he entered the backyard.

Nakano started to sit up, but Tsukishima held in her place with his arm.  She gave him a puzzled look, surprised that he wanted to stay in such a cuddly position with someone else around.  "Mine," he whispered, earning his favorite giggle again.  

"Hi Yams!  Welcome!" Nakano called out, "Please, go ahead and help yourself to anything on the table.  Drinks can go there too."

"Wow, your backyard is as amazing as Hinata said it was," Yamaguchi said as he grabbed an onigiri and plunked himself down on the grass by the bench his two friends were sitting on.  "You two look very comfortable," he said, giving them a sly smile.

Nakano tried again to sit up, but Tsukishima stopped her once more.  His face was only the lightest of pinks as he said, "Thank you, we are," and kissed Nakano's cheek.  She blushed, and looked at Yams as if to say 'I don't know what's going on, but I like it!'  Yamaguchi chuckled.

Yachi, Kageyama and Hinata were the next to arrive.  Nakano greeted them warmly, but was still held in place by Tsukishima.  The trio went over to set down their contributions to the celebration and grab themselves some drinks.

"I think that's the first time I've ever seen the two of them cuddle like that when they weren't asleep on a bus," Yachi said.  "I wonder what's going on?"

"What do you mean, Yachi?  They're boyfriend and girlfriend.  Isn't that what they're supposed to do?" Hinata said, cocking his head to the side.

"Well, I guess, but I didn't think Tsukishima would be so...open about it," the girl whispered as they walked over to the other three, "They never do things like that at practice."

"Daichi would throw a fit if they did," Kageyama said, looking at Nakano as she smiled, chatting with Yamaguchi, "but this isn't a practice.  So I guess they aren't as worried about it." As long as she's smiling, he thought, I don't care, four eyes.  Just don't ever let that smile falter.

"This is perfect!  I'm glad you guys all got here first," Nakano said as the the three newcomers joined their little group on the grass.  "I've been thinking...what if we had a separate get together, just for us first years?"

"To do what?" asked Tsukki.

"I was thinking we could go to that amusement park in Sendai," Nakano said.

"Yagiyama Benyland?" Yachi piped up, "I used to love going there when I was a kid!  Even though I was never brave enough to ride the roller coasters," she said, blushing a little.

"I'll ride them with you, Yachi!" Yamaguchi chimed in, "That sounds like fun!"  The girl paled.

"Let's go tomorrow!" Shoyo cried, throwing his hands in the air.  "Roller coasters, WOOOHOO!!!"

"Sorry, Shrimp, but we're busy tomorrow," Tsukki said, hugging Nakano again.

"Aw, man!  But I wanna go!" Shoyo said, crestfallen.

"You guys going on a date tomorrow?" Kageyama asked with a smirk.

"Isn't that what you're supposed to do when you're dating, Your Majesty?" Tsukishima clapped back.  Nakano gently elbowed him.

"We're not practicing next Monday either...what if we go then?" Nakano suggested.  The group nodded in agreement.  "Alright then!  The first year crew is going to the amusement park!" Nakano cried.  Shoyo, Tadashi, and Yachi all cheered.  Kageyama and Tsukishima just rolled their eyes.

Soon the rest of the team began to arrive, and naturally, a volleyball game was started.  Kiyoko kept score as Asahi, Kinoshita and Nishinoya went up against Hinata, Kageyama and Ennoshita.  The others chatted, watching the three-on-three and enjoying the music and snacks.  Daichi and Suga were the last to arrive, bringing some homemade mugicha and a beautiful potted orchid for Nakano's mom.  The girl led the boys into the house to meet her mother. 

They found her in the living room, reading.  "Mom, this is my captain, Sawamura Daichi, and my vice-captain, Sugawara Koshi.  Boys, my mother, Ogawa Emiko."

Both boys bowed. "Hajimemashite, Ogawa-san," they both intoned together.  Daichi held out the orchid to her.  "Tsumaranai mono desu ga," he said, "Thank you for allowing us to gather at your home."

"Oh my goodness," Emiko said with a gasp.  "Daichi-chan, Koshi-chan, this is lovely.  Thank you very much."  Both boys colored at being addressed as youngsters by Nakano's mother.  "Naka-chan, will you please put this on the dining room table?  And if everyone is here now, please go ahead and order the pizza, alright?"  She took the orchid from her mother and headed out, throwing Daichi and Suga an 'I'm sorry about her' look as she passed by.

"May I talk with you boys a moment?" she asked them.

"Of course, Ogawa-san," Daichi said.

"Please, sit," Emiko gestured to them, and both boys sat on the couch.  "I want to thank you very much for giving Naka-chan a place with your team.  Does she perform her duties well?"

Daichi smiled, "Absolutely, Ogawa-san.  Nakano has been a wonderful addition to our team, and we're very grateful she's chosen to stay with us."

Emiko cast her eyes down and gave the boys a sad smile.  "Please, tell me the truth.  Has she been a burden to you?  I know it must be difficult having to deal with someone who is unable to keep up with the rigors of a sport like volleyball..."

Suga and Daichi exchanged a confused look.  "Forgive me, Ogawa-san," Suga interrupted, "but Nakano is more than capable of keeping up with us.  She works very hard as our manager, and as a volleyball player herself..."

"Former volleyball player," Emiko said sadly.

"No, ma'am," Suga said firmly, "she's an excellent volleyball player.  She's helped a good many of us on the team learn new or hone existing skills.  She's a hard worker and very generous with her time and talents.  She's also so very supportive of all of us..."

Daichi put a hand on Suga's shoulder.  "What my vice-captain is trying to say, Ogawa-san, is that in no way is Nakano a burden to our team.  In fact, my biggest worry is that next year, if she's well enough, we might lose her to the girls' team when she's actually able to play full time again."

Emiko's mouth flew open, she covered it with her hand.  "Is...is she playing that well?"

Suga smiled.  "Ogawa-san, haven't you seen her play?"  Emiko shook her head.  "Well, maybe you should.  I'm sure she'll play at some point today.  Come and watch her.  I think you'll be amazed."

Daichi nodded.  "You really should.  Forgive me this question, but are you not involved with Nakano's therapy?"

Emiko smiled at the boys, but they could immediately see the smile was not genuine.  Her eyes seemed to be full of regret.  "I'm sorry to have interrupted your time together as a team.  Please, go ahead and enjoy yourselves."

Daichi and Suga stood.  "Please come watch her play, Ogawa-san.  I think you'll be pleasantly surprised at what you see.  I'm sorry if I said anything to upset you." Daichi said as he and Suga made their way back outdoors.

The party in the yard continued on in fine fashion.  No one was really surprised when Hinata's team won the three-on-three, and before long pizzas arrived to capture everyone's attention.  Tsukishima settled Nakano down on the grass and brought the two of them some pizza and mugicha, curling up alongside her.  He took the opportunity to occasionally feed her bites of pizza, and the two shared a single cup of the homemade drink.  When they were finished eating, Tsukishima settled himself down with his head in Nakano's lap.  She played with his hair, feeling the boy relax under the touch of her hand.  

"I gotta say, Tsukishima looks comfortable," Narita said with a grin.

Yamaguchi smiled.  "He really does."  He was sitting next to Yachi, and he glanced over at her, a small blush forming on his cheeks as he thought about the pretty girl playing around with his hair like that.

Asahi sighed.  "Must be nice," he said softly under his breath.

Yachi leaned over to Yamaguchi.  "I just can't believe that Tsukishima is being so...affectionate," she mumbled to the boy.  "I'm really surprised."

"Naka-chan doesn't seem to be," Yamaguchi whispered back.  I hope this is something we get to see more often, he thought.  It's nice to see Tsukki coming out from behind those barriers he's always had up.

"Are you guys gonna get all kissy with each other again?" Shoyo teased.  

"Like this?" Nakano smirked, leaning down and giving Tsukki a peck on the lips.  Several of the boys oooh'ed at them, laughing.

Daichi laughed. "I think you've made a few of our teammates jealous, Tsukishima."

"Sorry, not sorry Captain,"  Tsukishima said, "they'll have to find their own girlfriends."

"KIYOKO!  Please cuddle me!!" Nishinoya cried as he flung himself on the grass in front of the girl in question, trying to put his head in her lap.  The dark-haired beauty dodged him and smacked him in the face with a plate, making the team laugh again.

Soon, Emiko called for Nakano and Tsukishima to come help bring out the strawberry shortcake.  The teens dove into the cake with abandon, complementing Nakano once again on her baking skills.

"Hey, Tsukki helped this time around, so he deserves at least half the credit!" Nakano said, smiling.

"It's really good, Tsukishima," Kiyoko praised the boy.

"No fair!  He's dating our angel, and our goddess compliments him!  Next thing you know, he'll have Yachi serving him like a maid!" Tanaka groaned.

"W-W-W-WHAT?!" Yachi yelled.  The girl looked like she was about to faint.  Yamaguchi was quick to bring her some water.

Tsukishima scoffed.  "Tanaka-senpai, please don't say things like that."

Tanaka jumped on to the far side of the volleyball court.  "Then I challenge you to a match, Tsukishima!  Any who wish to help me take on the megane giant, stand with me!"  He yanked off his tee shirt, twirled it around and flung it away, flexing his muscles.

"No thanks, senpai.  I'm good."  Tsukishima rolled his eyes.

"I'll stand with you, Tanaka!" Noya ran to Tanaka's side of the court, also flinging his shirt aside.

"I told you, I'm not interested in a volleyball battle, senpais." Tsukki demurred again.

"Oho, too chicken to take on your upperclassmen, eh Tsukishima?  Can't say I blame you, we are pretty devastating."  Tanaka and Noya continued posing.  "Will no one accept my challenge?"

Daichi moved to the other side of the court, tossing his shirt aside, and striking a rather imposing figure.  "I'll take you guys on.  Who's with me?"

Yachi turned to Hinata.  "Why are they all taking their shirts off?"

Shoyo jumped up, yanking his tee shirt off.  "I dunno, but I'm with you Captain!"  He bounced over to stand with Daichi.

Kageyama headed over to Tanaka's side of the court.  "Let's see how much you can do without me, dumbass," the setter said with a smirk.  Tanaka cleared his throat, pointing at the boy's shirt.  "What?" Tanaka gave him a wide-eyed stare.  "Oh fine," Kageyama scoffed, throwing his shirt to the side.  "This is stupid," he said.

"Don't worry, Shoyo, I'll be your setter," Nakano said, jogging over to Daichi's side and grabbing the bottom of her tee shirt.

"WOAH!" Daichi yelled, reaching for her hands.  Tsukishima ran up, grabbing the girl from behind in a tight hug, holding her arms in place.

"What?  I thought this was the price of admission to this game," she said.  "I'm wearing a sports bra, ya know."

"And no one else here needs to know what color it is," Tsukishima whispered to her, "except maybe me."

"Play in this game and maybe I'll show you later on," she whispered back, smirking at the boy.

"I'll play," Tsukishima said out loud, smirking back and making Nakano blush as he called her bluff, "but only if we keep our shirts on."

"I'm in too!" called Yamaguchi, joining Daichi's side.

"Hey, no fair!" Noya called, yanking his tee shirt back on, "We need two more over here then!"

"Count us in," said Asahi, and he and Kinoshita stepped around to Tanaka's side of the court.

A spirited five-on-five got underway with the remaining five teens watching, cheering and generally calling out advice, both helpful and otherwise.  Narita agreed to keep score, and both teams soon found a rhythm that worked well for them, keeping the score close.  

It was Nakano's turn to serve.  She tossed the ball high, delivering a powerful jump serve, which Noya failed to receive.  A cheer went up from Nakano's side as well as the spectators at the service ace.  Suga, however, caught the sound of a breathless "Naka-chan!" from behind him and reached out to stop Emiko from running to her daughter.

"Wait, Ogawa-san," the silver-haired boy said, "Look, she's fine.  Her serves are very powerful.  That's her third service ace so far in this game.  Just watch her."

Emiko stood, almost frozen, watching her daughter play with her team.  She could hardly believe her eyes.  She stayed, mesmerized, as her daughter moved about, playing volleyball.  And playing it well.  Her hand covered her mouth again as Nakano followed Yamaguchi and Tsukishima's lead, jumping to block a spike from Tanaka.  

"One touch!" cried Tsukki as the ball flew off his hand.

Daichi ran back and dove for it, keeping the ball in play.  "Cover me!" he bellowed as the ball flew a bit more to the side than he would have liked.

Nakano ran into position, leaping to meet the ball in the air.  Her target was already in motion, having caught her eye as she came down from the block.  Hinata flew high above the net as Nakano set the ball across the court to his position.  He slammed the ball down between the outstretched hands of Kinoshita and Tanaka.

"YEAH!!" she bellowed, giving Tsukki a high ten, "Nice one-touch!"

"Nice set," her boyfriend replied.

Shoyo was staring at his hand.  "That was awesome, Naka-chan!"

Play resumed.  Suga had cheered loudly for the incredible kill, but soon turned to look at Emiko again.  The woman had tears running down her face.  "Thank you, Koshi-chan," she said softly, "You were right.  I am amazed.  And not just at Naka-chan.  Thank you all, so much.  Please, don't tell Naka-chan I was out here, okay?"  She turned and went back inside the house.

Eventually, Daichi's team won, by a slim 2-point margin.  A fair amount of joking and smack talk went down after the game, with Daichi vowing that amnesty would be given to all who opposed him, except for Tanaka who had issued the original challenge.  The wing spiker looked a little nervous until the captain assured him he was only kidding.

As the Sun began to set, the team was heading out, thanking Nakano for a wonderful afternoon.  "This really was a lot of fun, Naka-chan, thank you," Daichi said, "I think we needed a little team bonding time."  He smiled at the girl.  "How would you feel about being in charge of making sure we do things like this once in a while?  It's easy to get so caught up in preparations for matches that we forget that sometimes we just need to enjoy being together as friends."

"I'd be happy to, Cap," the girl said.  "Just leave it all to me.  And thanks for coming today."

"This was the best, Naka-chan!  Who knew volleyball in the backyard could be so much fun?  I had the time of my life!" Nishinoya yelled, jumping up in front of the blue-eyed setter.

"Me too!" cried Shoyo, bouncing alongside of him.  "Are you sure you don't need our help cleaning up?"

"Don't worry, Shoyo..." Nakano began.

"...she's got this," said Asahi, Suga, and Daichi together, laughing.

"And I'll help her," said Tsukishima.

Kageyama was the last to take his leave, giving Nakano a warm hug.  "Thanks, Naka-chan," he murmured.  "I'm glad you and the beanpole seem to be doing well."

She chuckled.  "Thanks, Tobio-chan." She handed him a small container.

"What's this?" he asked.

"Strawberry shortcake," she said, "You were the one who originally asked for it, right?  So I figured you might want a little extra to take home."

He gave her a little smile and waved goodbye, chasing after Hinata, who yelled about beating him to the end of the block.  

The sky exploded in sunset colors as Nakano and Tsukishima cleaned up the backyard.  By the time they finished, the oranges and pinks had given way to blues and purples.  The pair sat in the grass, once again enjoying their tradition of strawberry shortcake and soda, and conversation.  As the stars slowly emerged, they chatted about the success of the team get together, with even Tsukki agreeing that it hadn't been too awful.  Nakano chuckled at his high praise for the event.  Silence fell between them as they stargazed.  Tsukishima soon wrapped his arms around the girl, drawing her close to him and inhaling her scent.

"Mmmm...Roses," he sighed out, "I think this is the best part of today."

She snuggled into his embrace, giggling a little.  "So, do you still want to see what color my sports bra is?" she asked.

He jumped a little bit as she reminded him of that exchange on the court.  "You do love to keep tempting me, don't you, Roses?" he said, smirking as he kissed her temple.  "Be careful, one day I might not be able to resist."

She laughed, and turned over in his arms to face him.  "I'll show you, if you really want.  Sports bras are more like tank tops anyway.  You'll see a lot more skin the first time we go to the beach together."

He felt his face get hot, as he thought about Nakano in a bikini.  "Well, here's hoping we're going to the beach tomorrow then," he said, trying to pull off a smirk, but knowing the blush across his cheeks reduced the impact of it.  She smiled fondly at him.

"So will you tell me what was going on with you today?" she asked him suddenly.

"What do you mean?"

"You were surprisingly affectionate in front of the team today.  That's not usually your kind of thing.  And you seemed to be deliberately working at riding out their teasing, which honestly, they didn't really do much of.  I think what happened at the training camp kind of made them realize they need to keep it under control."

I cannot put anything over on this girl whatsoever, he thought wryly.  I am an open book to her. "Maybe I just wanted to be more romantic," he said.  She arched a brow at him and waited.  "Okay, maybe," he began, running a hand through her strawberry blonde hair, "I wanted you to know how incredible you are.  How much I care for you.   And how very lucky I feel to have you as part of my life.  You deserve to know that, Roses."