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Chapter Text

If a normal person thinks of Kuroko Tetsuya, a plain guy and someone painfully average at everything is painted in their mind, given they remember him in the first place. Kuroko shrugs and lets their perception of him alone. His friends would fight him, gently in a rough manner since they love the pass specialist, because he’s the complete opposite of plain. The phantom sixth man is an enigma who is more mischievous than his deceiving white lily appearance does to the average joe. He’s clearly anything but that (per his biased friends). Even the esteemed Akashi Seijuuro upholds how interesting the phantom sixth man is in any situation. Exceeding expectations and being stubbornly loyal to a fault, the heir of the Akashi conglomerate is on the brink of giving up his hesitations to not marr—date! Dating first before marriage, damn it! Ahem, to date Kuroko Tetsuya of Seirin High. A father like Akashi Maosomi will make anyone understand why Akashi Seijuurou is holding himself back from dating his person of interest. So, for this notorious redhead, Seirin’s 11 is lightyears away from mediocre.

Oh, if only the Rakuzan captain knew how he prefers being an ordinary high school boy with his stoic reputation than to be found… as a hopeless romantic.

Kagami Taiga once said Kuroko Tetsuya bears no scent and this gives the pass specialist a thought; he is a fog. People, even his friends, have been breathing the calm air he exudes. The very oxygen made of mystery and enigma he always been around them. Let them inhale what they are all used to from him—fog.

Stirring them clear from his hidden maiden heart and fantasies.

Kuroko Tetsuya remembers the day his eyes began to adapt a Ghibli movie filter or how he simply romanticized his life vividly. Even now, he waits for the day he will be with his oh so one true love. 

Romantic letters accompanied by wonderfully thought-out flowers are part of a tale that he’s been told countlessly and yet, he has never grown tired hearing it from his grandmother. Kuroko sometimes gazes dreamily at his grandmother’s drawer, where heartfelt compositions were penned by his grandparents are hidden. The baby blue haired male believes this to be responsible for igniting the first spark of interest that raged on and then aided by a fuel made from his grandmother’s passionate anecdotes. The fire burns to this day; he yearns for a love like theirs, hoping it comes any day now.

“Blame your grandfather,” the young Kuroko would hear from his grandmother, tone fond yet exasperated when she hears his pouting about waiting for his own love to enter his life already.

So, his heart does, and it blames his amazing grandfather and their romance.

A gentle man, his late grandfather was; he became part of the reason young Tetsuya would feel his cheeks heat up whenever he’d hear their tender love stories recited like the events just happened yesterday. Kuroko would wonder why his heart would thump softly whenever he saw how truly gentle his grandmother was loved by her late husband. He didn’t know the answer for years, but now, the sight and smell of blooming flora whisper to his ears about a romance he longs to experience for himself.

It’s a pain to be lovelorn. 

To top it off, his sharp observational skills make him long for the love of his life more and more. Although, the wee little pricks his heart goes through every day is much more preferable than the day he found out that Ogiwara is as straight as a board. It took two months for him to heal from his very first heartbreak without even confessing, since he thought it’s a waste to risk their friendship. Worse, the whole Teikō-Meikō match roughened them up too. He can't ruin something so precious again.

But still…

The phantom sixth man dislikes being a bystander to all these sweet couples when he’s still single. Like, where’s the respect for his pining heart? 

The Seirin basketball team possesses the love triangle between their coach, captain, and center. There is also Tsuchida-senpai being cared for by his girlfriend which is sweet until Kuroko wants to sulk in the corner instead of witnessing their affection. Hell, even Furihata got himself a girlfriend! Good for his friend in achieving his goal, but how about him!?

Seirin’s 11 can’t even avert his attention from the unfolding chapters of a romantic story wherein he merely plays a side character because it’s not only happening in Seirin. It’s not only in his own school wherein he has to survive from the Cupid’s blatant favoritism, but also suck it up and remain deadpanned in the presence of his middle school friends who are all already getting their love story written. Right. In. Front. Of. Him.

Midorima would always wipe Takao’s sweat while lecturing the hawk-eyed player after an arranged practice game between their teams; Murasakibara would be listening to Himuro easily whenever and wherever; Aomine would always tease Kise just to get satisfying reactions from the model.

One would think Kuroko has Kagami for support as his fellow ‘single as a pringle’ guy, but nooo, it couldn’t be that easy. Kuroko’s hope is unfortunately crushed when he sees a budding relationship rooting from the sudden closeness of Kagami with his former manager. Turns out, Seirin’s ten has been teaching Momoi to cook for months. Months.

“Betrayal,” he whispers to the wind when he finds out.

Come on!

Kuroko cried in his room, frustrated, when all those couples (not everyone is a ‘couple’ but he knows they’re already on that road) were with him in Maji Burger. The disrespect to his vanilla milkshake and heart. How rude.

“Cupid is so dumb,” He mumbles to his wet pillow. Everyone but him? Wow.

What can he do when he feels lonely? At the very least, he can wish for someone, a lover to call his own, to hold him. So, as a lost romantic with imagination being forever a free service, Kuroko decides to make his own scenarios between him and his current crush.

“Tetsuya, you look exquisite wearing the yukata.”

And there it is. The annoying tingle on his cheeks. He has a love-hate relationship with being able to perfectly hear Akashi Seijuuro’s voice in his head for these stories (fantasies).

“Can we hold hands, Akashi-kun?”

Akashi smiles softly before pulling Tetsuya by the waist closer to him. Their distance is obviously shortened, but the sight of his lover with an amused brow raise makes Kuroko stare.

“What did we agree on?” The red head leans in, stopping a breath away from the younger’s ear. “Ask again, Tetsuya.”

Cursing how velvety it sounds even in his fantasy; Kuroko is overcome by the urge to cover his obvious blushing face. However, since he’s determined to see it through, he fights against it.

“Can we hold hands,”

“Seijuuro…” A slip of tongue.

Upon realizing it, Kuroko silently screams into his pillow for saying the name out loud. He feels so foolish, but his heart is beating, and it feels like sunshine is healing his body all over after being single again another day. Daydreaming truly does make everything better for this hopeless romantic.

“A training camp in Kyoto?!” The reactions of almost everyone in the Seirin gym makes Riko smile. Despite the obvious dread from the players, she keeps her joyful expression.

“Yeah,” exclaimed Riko, “All the teams from the Generation of Miracles will be practicing together—isn’t it exciting?!”

While everyone discusses the matter at hand, the phantom sixth man is having a dilemma—how can he survive three problems in that camp for a week? First, he’ll see the old and new couples. Second, he’ll have to be something other than a fool in love with Akashi—who is present and not just his lover from his daydreams. Third, training together is something he is sure would be reminding him of his time at Teiko under the reign of his previous captain.

“Where will we be staying?”

“Most likely where Akashi-kun deems best.” Kuroko butts in, earning several yelps near him.

“Correct. So, be sure to be respectful, okay?” Riko-senpai turns to Kagami with a rather eerie smile, “Okay?”

“Yes, ma’am...” The ace answered while his teammates snickered.

“Good! Now, back to practice, boys!”

Kiseki no Sedai

Kise: everyone!!!!~~~~ im so excited to train with you all again!!!!! ✧˖°(ɲ˃ ˈ̫̮ ˂ɳ)°˖✧

Momoi: Me too, Ki-chan! (っˆᗜˆ)っ

Momoi: Tetsu-kun, I’ll prepare you a bento! @Kuroko ꒰ › ⸝⸝⸝ ‹ ꒱

Akashi: No need, Momoi. The inn will provide sufficient meals catered to our training so you can focus on our progress as well.

Aomine: thank god cuz who knows wats gon happen to tetsu

Aomine: or worse, us lmao

Momoi: I’M TELLING AUNTIE YOU’RE A PERVERT! (ʘ言ʘ╬)

Aomine: OI! I WAS JOKING WOMAN!!!!!!!!

Midorima: Are there nearby stores outside, @Akashi ?

Akashi: Yes, but you must get permission from your coach first when you go out the premises. There is a souvenir shop inside as well.

Kagami: hUH? why'd he needta go out???

Kuroko: To purchase his lucky item of the day, Kagami-kun.

Kagami: he really demoted to dat stuff, huh??

Kuroko: *devoted @Kagami

Aomine: wAT AN IDIOT LMAO U SUCK BAKAGAMI wwwwwww

Kagami: SHUTUP AHOMINE, UR NOT BETTER THAN ME ANYWAY

Kuroko: Aomine-kun, that’s not nice. Kagami-kun can at least do English.

Kagami: DROP DA ‘AT LEAST’ KUROKO

Kagami: speakin abt eng, how the f does akashi not have an accent

Akashi: Is that so?

Midorima: Akashi has been learning various languages at a young age.

Kagami: wow datz cool

Kagami: anw

Kagami: wanna see a video of kuroko speak in eng?

Momoi: YES PLEASE KAGAMIN ༼ つ ◕◡◕ ༽つ

Kise: YES (2) (੭ु´･ω･`)੭ु⁾⁾

Murasakibara: are are? kuro-chin can?

Aomine: SEND IT ALREADY BAKAGAMI

Kagami: AM LOOKIN FOR IT SHUTUP

Midorima: Kuroko has been awfully quiet.

Kuroko: Kagami-kun if you send it, I’ll ignite pass kai you to the gut.

Midorima: It can’t be that bad, Kuroko.

Kagami sent a video which if played shows an oblivious Kuroko reading English sentences meant for flirting with an obvious horrible attempt of Kagami holding back his laughter behind the shaky camera.

Kagami: oh shit

Kuroko: ...

Momoi: TETSU-KUN IS SO CUTE! I LOVE HIM SO MUCH!!! (๑˃́ꇴ˂̀๑)

Kise: KUROKOCCHI STOP STEALING MY HEART WHEN ITS ALRERADY WITH YOU TTTTT <3

Momoi: I CALLED DIBS ALREADY, KI-CHAN!

Kise: MOMOCCHI YOU CANT HOG HIM ALL TO YOURSELF˚‧º·(˚ ˃̣̣̥⌓˂̣̣̥ )‧º·˚

Murasakibara: bravoooooo, kuro-chin amaziiiing

Aomine: oh cmon its can't be that bad tetsu

Aomine: I TAKE IT BACK WWWWWW

Midorima: Do all of you even know what he was saying?

Akashi: Those were interesting pick-up lines to hear from you, Kuroko.

Kuroko: Akashi-kun, are pets allowed in the inn?

Akashi: Yes, why?

Kuroko: Thank you, Akashi-kun.

Kagami: DON’T BRING DAT DOG KUROKO

Kuroko: @Kise @Aomine @Kagami

Kuroko: The three of you are dead to me.

Kise: HOW ABOUT THE OTHERS!??!?Σ (꒪◊꒪ ))))

Aomine: ITS BAKAGAMI’S FAULT TF

Kise: THAT’S RIGHT!!!!!!!!!! d(●ω●

Kagami: TRAITORS! OI KUROKO WTH

Kise: WHY ISNT MOMOCCHI INCLUDED ( ；∀；)

Momoi: >:P

Kuroko: Good night @Momoi @Midorima @Murasakibara @Akashi

Kuroko sets his phone on silent and exhales, Kagami just had to embarrass him tonight out of all days in a year. Maybe it's time to look for a new light, the American has been pushing his buttons. But oh, this was that big red button people should never push. And Kuroko Tetsuya isn't one to annoy (Aomine Daiki shivers from certain memories). The phantom sixth man stares at his screen with a mind running plans for revenge concerning a certain Seirin ace when the (his) world comes to a halt. Why is Akashi Seijuuro calling him?! 

And out of instinct, mixed with a giddy feeling his heart is dancing to the beat, he answers the call. 

“Akashi-kun?”

“Kuroko,” The owner of said name shivers and barely keeps himself in check. “Are you okay?”

“Yes, Akashi-kun. It’s Kagami-kun who needs to worry.”

Then, he hears a laugh. Kuroko wants to slam his head on the futon now because that laugh is absolutely unfair. How can a freaking chuckle sound so handsome and how he needs it to be repeated in his ear until he’s deaf?!

“Were you aware those were pickup lines?”

“I did not until Kagami-kun told me the following day. He will be now suffering for sharing it to you all.”

“Personally, I found it adorable.”

…Eh?

“I’m telling the truth, Kuroko.” Kuroko realized right there and then he said that out loud. “It’s not every day one hears you say such romantic lines.”

“Akashi-kun is teasing me.” Stay blunt, Kuroko, stay b l u n t.

“And if I am?” Oh dear god, Seirin’s 11 feels his cheeks turn red from mischief laced in the tone which is stringing his already smitten heart along.

“I applaud Akashi-kun’s improvement in making jokes.” Kuroko tells himself he is safe. No waver in his voice, just a good ‘ol phantom sixth man who's been trained for years to keep his emotions at bay. Y e s.

“Why, thank you, Kuroko. I hope to give you a standing ovation when your flirting skills bloom.”

“You’re very supportive, Akashi-kun. I’ll be sure not to let you down.”

“I doubt you could even do that physically, Kuroko.”

Logic flies out of Kuroko's head upon saying the next words, “Then you can stay on top of me.”

It took a second for him to internally register what he said, another for him to understand what the hell he just said to his crush, and the third second to recover. “I’ll be going now, Akashi-kun. Good night.”

His finger quickly ended the call. Now, he wishes his finger was fast as his sense of dignity before saying such words to his crush seconds ago. It wasn't even a good comeback! He curses himself silently, the heat of his cheeks boiling, being such an embarrassment sight to his ancestors at this point. It goes without saying he is getting into a tizz how he’ll ever face Akashi for a week now!?

“I was right,” Kuroko mumbles, “Cupid is so dumb.”

Now, in his room alone, he’s left there feeling stupid.

Thank you very much, deity of love.

OMAKE/EXTRA:

Akashi stares at his phone screen, a minute has already passed. The sound of soft laughter fills the room as lips are unable to keep any emotion down from that unexpected sentence.

“Well, what do you know?" The red head amused of yet again another discovery, "He can flirt.”

As always, Kuroko Tetsuya exceeds his expectations.

Then, a smirk graces his face when his thoughts about Kuroko are now acting like those in the bodies of space, he pinpoints the reason for it is obviously from the interesting conversation. Yet a part of him is well-aware Kuroko never truly left his mind.

Chapter Text

Training camps are normal occurrences for the Teikō alumnus who even travelled to Hawaii with his former teammates. Good times one would say, oh no, not for this guy. He is still torn whether to be grateful his body had to focus on surviving a torturous regime or distraught he couldn’t admire his crush when said love interest is the reason that famous beach paradise felt like Gehenna. Yet he decides to put a hold on identifying which emotion it is and then proceeds to throw said thoughts back to the far corner of his brain. All because a part of him randomly pops out a blasphemous answer, “You’re a masochist.”

Nope, no, he tells himself to forget whatever he went through previous training camps during Teikō.

Maybe save some moments he and Akashi shared like drinking from the same bottle which is technically an indirect ki—

Kuroko groans into the folded shirt in his hands. His head needs to stop cooperating with his heart when it came to Akashi Seijuurou when there are far more important things to give precedence. Like now, preparing a week’s worth of essentials in Kyoto than getting lost over sweet memories the Akashi heir weaved into his brain that recites it like a gospel and his heart is ever the faithful follower of this euphoria.

The baby blue haired male glares at the innocent sport bag for evoking images of Akashi Seijuurou carrying it when he was dead beat from the latter’s curated tutelage to keep bringing victories. He wishes it’d burn along with how the red head grazed their hands when he tried to take back his duffle bag and he felt his skin flush from it. Yes, you can blame him, it was the baby stages of his crush for him, okay?

The tired breath Kuroko lets out is laughable, really. It is tormenting and salvation to think about his crush as he packs for a trip where he’ll be with said crush. Curse his attention span and imaginative brain. Still, he has the energy to think about the Rakuzan captain so, why not release this giddiness to focus on something better?

The phantom sixth man stares at the ceiling as he laid on the bed, worried about a future for his best friend. Those words from Tiki have now become a reprise. They say there’s no use with worrying about the unknown but, one can’t buy a peace of mind. Especially when it concerns your best friend.

“Kuroko?”

Like a light cutting through the fog, Akashi’s voice snaps him out of his thoughts.

“Akashi-kun enjoyed his shower?” He slowly sits up, feet meeting the floor once he sat on the edge of his bed and admires this person made with love in his eyes. Kuroko confirms to himself some people can still remain good-looking despite having wet hair. What a talent.

“Indeed, it helped relaxed my sore muscles.” The red-head chuckles softly.

The passing specialist hums. “May Akashi-kun sit on the floor? I want to dry his hair for him.”

Akashi blinks for a second before smiling, clearly endeared from those words.

“Sure, Kuroko.”

Kuroko ignores how his lips are already upwards resulting from his own creativity. His mind sure is smart to think of pecking Akashi’s forehead after drying that fiery red hair, however...

Still sat on the floor, back leaning against the bed’s edge, and a body slotted between the sixth man’s legs with Akashi’s head tilted back is certainly a scene straight out of the romance genre. Those ruby eyes have a twinkle he could see as adoration and Kuroko helplessly mesmerized yet again. He lets his captain take a hold of his free hand and oh, how can he be this gentle yet firm? Kuroko Tetsuya is albeit too close turning into putty with how his captain can be so soft with giving his fingers a peck as if he were devotee.

God, does worship feel this high?

Kuroko thinks the Empyrean was brought down to their room by Akashi Seijuurou himself.

“Thank you, Kuroko.” The redhead whispers to him as his thumb gently strokes his knuckles back and forth. “For taking care of me.”

“Yeah, thank you, Kuroko!” He says to himself as he shoves a clean towel in his bag. “Thank you for distracting yourself from productivity!”

Curse his blessing of an imagination!

“Is everyone here?” Riko checks on her team as they also look around amongst themselves. Not more than two bags for each person can be spotted especially since they’ll be training in winter and for a week at Kyoto, it is better to be prepared after all.

“To be sure,” Hyuga sighs, fogging his glasses slightly, “Kuroko?”

“Yes.” Seirin players flinch as they look around for the missing latter, “I’ve been here this whole time.”

They finally spot Kuroko who is appropriately warm for winter with two bags on him to bring.

“He’s lying again,” Kagami points out with his ever-heated energy but is met with silence. “He’s flushed!”

“Alright, that’s enough. Let’s board the bus before we all freeze to death.”

“Freeze… Say Freeze!”

“Don’t let Izuki on.”

Hours pass and buses soon show up in front of a hotel, most players were in awe to be staying in the establishment just for the sake of practice. Some of them are thankful they’re in the team to be able to join this. But of course, few knew better than to be excited with the accommodation due to previous experiences in Teikō. The more extravagant it was, the more the inferno felt closer.

“Ah! Seirin is here,” Kise exclaims and walks over to the bundled Kuroko. “Kurokocchi, long time no see!”

Kuroko looks at his protégé with miniscule smile, “Hello, Kise-kun.”

“I’m so pumped to play with everyone again.” The blond grins as bright as his hair color.

“I am too—” Kuroko is interrupted by someone tackling him from the side.

“Tetsu-kun, you’re here!”

“Let Tetsu go, Satsuki.”

Tōō’s duo join in crowding the phantom. Kuroko notices his team head in further to not overcrowd and he should do the same—

“You five are crowding the lobby entrance.” Midorima scolds them with a lucky item in hand.

“Kise’s at fault here, y’know!” Kagami states with a glare towards Midorima while Kaijō’s ace pouts being the person to blame.

“I was just greeting Kurokocchi!”

“And now you have, blondie, move as—”

“Mido-chin, can I eat your can of chips?” Food has always been a good bait for this certain player.

“I think that’s his lucky item, Murasakibara-kun.”

“Precisely.” The shooting guard confirms as he adjusts his glasses.

Yōsen’s center grumbles something about it would be luckier to be eaten than held all day.

“It’s nice to see everyone so lively,” The multi-colored haired students’ attention immediately shifted as they look over to their (minus one) former captain approach. “I hope the trip here was comfortable.”

“Hello, Akashi-kun." Momoi greeted with a smile, "Dai-chan slept like a log~”

“When does he never?” Midorima voiced out with a huff.

“Oi, I’m right here!”

They may be blocking a chunk of the entrance and but Kuroko wants this moment to last a bit more. Never mind the bickering, honestly, he missed hearing their voices as they talk to one another. How lucky he is to miss people and reunite with them again. The smile delicately painted in his face doesn’t go unnoticed by Akashi but it is Kuroko who misses that soft gaze on him.

“Akashi-kun,” Kuroko looks over to the Rakuzan point guard blankly. “Is it okay to bring Nigou out now?”

“Yes, where is he?”

Kuroko opens one of his bags and Nigou’s head pops out.

“Gah! I forgot you brought that mutt along!” Kagami moves away a bit from his shadow.

“I didn’t forgot what you did too.” Nigou barks in support of his owner’s reply.

Akashi chuckles, “May I pet him, Kuroko?”

The latter nods and watches his crush give Nigou affection. He can’t help but wonder what it’s like to get headpats from Akashi. Dare he can dream to experience it in this lifetime.

Meanwhile, Nigou lets out happy whines on the receiving end of pats.

“Everyone, head to Hall A and line up with your respective team. The opening program will begin shortly. Thank you!”

“Akashi…” Midorima’s voice has a hint of hesitation yet he continues on, “Did you have a hand in curating the training menus?”

The Rakuzan captain smiles and the chills are suddenly in their system, “No. Were you hoping a refresher?”

Before some of the Teiko alumni can sigh in relief, they could only stiffen from someone’s next words.

“Myself and the other coaches made them, Midorin!” Her cheerful voice felt more akin to a painful road ahead.

Kuroko is the first to speak amongst dreading players. “Is winter possible in hell?”

Nigou can only tilt his head as an innocent witness to their pain.

The opening ceremony was led by coach Shirogane and assisted by Momoi beside him. After a brief greeting for all the teams present, he reminds them to have their manners and be on their best behavior while staying in the hotel. The Rakuzan coach makes it clear this training camp is held not only for individual players to hone their skills, but an opportunity for them to learn from other teams. Schedules, lineups, and other details were told by a cheerful Momoi. She adds each player will receive a map and room key from their team captains. If they had any other questions, she’s gladly answer them.

The silence surely meant they understood, however…

“Lastly, punishments for losing teams will be a surprise.” Those words from the pink-haired manager made them tense up and now, they felt the urge to ask about that aspect. “With that, training camp day 1 starts in an hour!”

If you’d think Kuroko will get distracted during practice, perish this thought. Seirin’s 11 is currently face planted on the floor after completing three out of he-doesn’t-remember-how-many-number in the training regime and they're just starting. Who cares if his crush was so cool and showing no signs of being out of breath—o k a y, not the time to lose focus. On one side, the Teikō alumni were impressed to see their phantom sixth man's stamina improve compared to their previous years. Some players expected the phantom’s constitution, others didn't think it's this terrible, and there are a few who felt pity. But who had time for their condolences when practice is still in session?

“Will that pipsqueak survive today?”

“Yes, he will.” Riko laughs as she replied to her fellow coach.

Masaaki, Shotoku's coach, glances at Seirin’s trump card before looking back at his own team.

Harasawa hums as he plays with his hair and eyes the mentioned player starting his drills, “What an enigma of a player.”

“Have you seen Murasakibara?”

Shaking his head, “All the Generation of Miracles are an enigma.”

All the coaches nodded in agreement to Shirogane’s words.

Hours stretched endlessly and after what felt like a millennium, it was time to freshen up for dinner. It took almost an hour for majority of the teams to sit down and eat beside whoever they wanted. For Kuroko’s case…

“Kurokocchi! Kagamicchi! Over here!”

“Oi, Why is that flea sitting with us, Kise?”

Annoyed, “Got a problem with that, asshole?”

“Obviously.” The glaring session begins and the shadow could only sigh.

Kuroko sets his prepped meal on the table and sits down next to Aomine.

“Aomine-kun, Kagami-kun, just sit down and eat.”

“The two idiots are better off in another table.” Midorima says as he sits across Aomine with Takao next to him.

“Who invited you, mung bean?” Kagami still sat down even if he was near Aomine.

“I did,” Kise answered cheerfully earning him silence.

“Woah, I hope you guys don’t mind me tagging along.” Takao says with his ever-teasing smile. The cunning point guard of Shotoku sat across Kise whom smiles at him.

“Go ahead, Takao-kun.”

“All that’s left is…”

“Room for three more?” Murasakibara asks sluggishly with Akashi and Himuro by his sides.

“Hey, don’t forget about me, Mukkun.” The Tōō manager pouts as she sits next to Kagami. “Hey, Kagamin!”

“Good work today, everyone.” Akashi says as he sits beside Midorima.

“It was tiring, Aka-chin.” The purple-haired male whines at the thought of practice again before taking a seat next to Akashi. 

“And you can rest now, Murasakibara-kun.” Kuroko managed to say despite him being seated across his crush. “You did great today too, Akashi-kun.”

The smile he gets makes Kuroko feel his heart skipped a beat. “Thank you, Kuroko.”

“Let’s just eat already.” Kagami groaned because if he had to be honest, he was famished and so were the others.

The dinner was normal as it could be with Kuroko bearing witness to the couples and potential ones around him. It's an expectation in his everyday life now, who was he to stop romance? No, he doesn’t miss in his row how Aomine secretly likes Kise feeding him or Kagami trying a bit what Momoi made for him to critic. He sips his miso soup but his ears spare him no mercy from Takao saying he’ll eat the green beans instead or Himuro reminding Murasakibara next to him to wipe his mouth with fond tone. This is just the first day of their training camp and love is already in the air. Ugh, except for him agai—

Wait a minute… he and Akashi are the only ones in this table who have no potential partners, right?

It's meant to be, Kuroko had to fight the urge from smiling at his own thoughts. The way to do such is continue eating and converse little as possible.

He wins the battle since the others had their own conversations before they slowly departed from the table after finishing their own meals to do their own thing.

But oh, will he win the war, Cupid asks. The angel of love definitely has a hand with Akashi still seating across him even though he's done eating. Why hasn't he left?

“Akashi-kun, Midorima-kun seems to have left his lucky item.” Kuroko points out as a conversation starter. He just finished eating and he's proud to have finished it all.

“He said Oha Asa told him he must give this to a Sagittarius,” Akashi smiles, “I’m honored I was chosen.”

“Will you be eating it now?”

The red-haired male nods as he opens the can of chips. “Would you like some, Kuroko?”

The latter thinks before answering, “After Akashi-kun eats first.”

A chuckle from the red head is followed with him eating the first of many. “Your turn, Kuroko.”

“Thank you, Akashi-kun.” He said as he takes one and munches.

“By the way,” Akashi has his eyes fixed on the phantom, “I won’t tell anyone about our conversation the other night.”

Did…Did his crush just tease him? 

Kuroko blinks, “Is Akashi-kun using it as blackmail?” He asks before eating another chip.

“What a good idea, Kuroko.” Akashi is amused when he sees what appears to be Kuroko pouting. “May I?”

How cute…

“Eh?" Before Kuroko could ask what the other meant, he feels something touch his cheek.

World. Pause.

Akashi poked his cheek. Akashi poked his cheek. Akashi Seijuurou, I do—

“Is that a pout I see, hm?” This is so unfair. No, no, his crush can’t be this great of a flirt. Is he even flirting with Kuroko?!

Kuroko has only survived day one of this training camp...and why hasn’t Akashi removed his index finger from his cheek?

“Oi, Kuroko.” With the arrival of Seirin’s light, their intimate moment is broken. Seirin’s shadow wants to clarify his own question that he didn’t mean he wanted it gone.

“Kagami-kun, what is it?” Kuroko asks as he tries not to blush after what just happened.

The former yawns, “Coach said she wanted a team meeting before bed.”

“Go ahead then, Kuroko and bring this.” Akashi hands over the unfinished snack to him, “I won’t be able to finish it.”

Kagami smiles at the sight of chips. “Yo, those look good!”

“Thank you, Akashi-kun. Good night.”

The Rakuzan captain smiles, “Yes, get some proper rest soon.”

Kuroko bows before leaving with Kagami who gets some chips from the can. The blue-haired male hopes his poker face isn’t colored with pink or red.

If he is, it’s Cupid at fault, as always.

OMAKE/EXTRA:

“What were you and Akashi doing earlier, Kuroko?”

“He and I were just talking.”

Aside from certain players getting nervous at his answer, Kagami eats another chip as confusion enters his brain.

How did their talk involve a cheek poke?

...Meh, not his problem.

“Who would’ve thought you liked this flavor, Akashi.” A Rakuzan player said as he offered his captain a newly opened can.

The red-haired male smiles and Reo listening in wonders why his kouhai has a hint of unfamiliar sweetness mixed in his smile right now. Akashi can smile but this one…it feels different from the rest he has seen from their miracle. And why is that, is the burning question.

”I didn’t know as well,” Akashi gets one chip. He takes a bite with a pleased expression on his face. “Until, I had a taste.”

Chapter Text

“Akashi-kun…” Kuroko speaks in a hushed tone, trying his best to keep eye contact with the attractive red-haired captain. He finds his current predicament limiting when the former is trapping him against the soft mattress. Chests inching closer to meet every time they breathe makes Kuroko dazed. The word separation must’ve been taken out the dictionary to give them this privacy. “What are you doing?” He breathed out, clear as his throat could for him.

Never mind those butterfly kisses still lingering on his neck.

Kuroko Tetsuya is thanking the Gods the lights were off or else his shameful face flushed with light shade of red will be discovered. Only used to hand holding kept in the dark, how will the sixth man keep his breath steady when his former captain is taking his sweet time in exploring a new territory? Those hands he has become familiar with are making itself home and his skin is sensitive enough to be hospitable for this regular guest.

Oh, he really is grateful.

About training to be stoic in uncommon situations, that is.

Wait…this is a great test, Kuroko Tetsuya!

Or rather a wonderful opportunity for Akashi Seijuurou.

“What should we do?” The scion replies with a mix of sincerity and mischief intertwined in his tone. He sure knows how temptation sounds for him to dangle it upfront. And Kuroko is an all-willing victim.

“Go to sleep—”

“Oh, love,” Akashi whispers to his ear. Kuroko almost gulped from the sensation. “The night is young and so are we.”

The phantom sixth man bites his lower lip, “But—”

“It’s just us,” Reminded the captain before nipping Kuroko’s ear. “Unless you want an audience, Tetsuya?”

Kuroko sits up with a quiet gasp, eyes looking around the hotel room. He is grounded back into reality by the sound of Kagami Taiga snoring at his own bed. Seirin’s 11 exhales a breath he didn’t know he held and this is when he realizes he’s quite parched. Glancing at the digital clock, he figures a quick drink will satisfy his late-night craving of water. The former slowly makes his way to the mini fridge for bottled water.

What stops him is the reflection he sees in the mirror. The lights are dimmed yet it doesn’t diminish his face adorned with pink. This is bad, his imagination was rather a bold director for tonight’s dream.

Not like he was complaining it’s production.

He silently clicks his tongue at his appearance before downing the water to cool down. He climbs into his covers and hopes the loud snoring causes him to have a normal dream. Kuroko will take a giant Maji vanilla milkshake floating after him over…whatever it was!

Cupid must be giggling somewhere at his unfortunate state. Again.

“Good morning, everyone.” He greets his team with Kagami beside him. Heh, they were surprised again.

“Ack— How do you always manage to have bed hair, Kuroko?” Hyuga asks in disbelief over the sight of baby-blue hair blown to directions of its own choosing. “Mitobe, help him out, will ‘ya?”

The hawk-eyed player snickers as he watches the commotion made by his rival. “Don’t you wanna help him, Shin-chan?” Takao teases his teammate who glares at him for propounding.

Midorima glances at Seirin’s table where his eyes remind him of a familiar sight. Stare any longer and he’ll be filled up with guilt again of yesterday’s mindless indifference, hence, he looks down at his food before picking up a piece of fish. “His team is more than capable of handling his bedhead, Takao.”

Takao grins, “Oh? Doesn’t answer my question though.”

The green-haired male pops a comical vein and shoves food in the point guard’s mouth.

‘Ah, even in the morning I have to watch them.’ Kuroko thinks to himself while watching the light and shadow of the Shotoku, letting Mitobe tame his hair. ‘Lucky me.’

The phantom sixth man thanks his upperclassman politely before eating his breakfast next to the other first years.

“Hey guys, want to check out the second floor later?” Furihata asks before sprinkling some sesame seeds on top of his rice. “I heard there’s a fortune teller there.”

“Oh, come on, those are just money shams.” Kawahara says with a huff.

Fukuda nods, “Besides, we’ll be lucky to even go after drills.”

“I’ll go with you, Furihata-kun.”

Kuroko wonders why suddenly his fellow first years have his eyes on him after answering.

“You will?”

“Wait, you believe in that stuff, Kuroko?”

“Yes, I will and I don’t exactly have an opinion when it comes to fortune reading.”

Kagami raises his brow at them before swallowing his food down, “Then why are you going?”

Kuroko sips his miso soup before answering, “They often are good in shuffling cards like a magician so, I want to see their skill.”

Fukuda laughs a bit from the reason given. Give it to Kuroko, always keeping them in their toes. “Let’s all go then, us first years.”

“If you get to even walk properly after today’s training.” Riko beamed with an all too familiar smile from behind Fukuda. The second years could only snicker at the sight of their first years acting like statues. “This isn’t vacation, first years. Or should we double your regime to jog your memories, hm?”

Kuroko eats while his peers looked like they lost their appetite from their coach’s threat suggestion.

After strenuous hours of practice, teams scatter to do their own thing since day 2 has officially wrapped up. Akashi is quick to notice Kagami and Kuroko aren’t doing extra practice today with their exit in the court. The Seirin duo isn’t the type to slack off, naturally his interest and guard is up.

“Eh? Kagamicchi is already done for today?”

Aomine snorts, “He’s out of gas that quick? Figures.”

“I think Muro-chin said something about them seeing magic.”

Midorima wipes his glasses, “Kuroko is already laying down his foundations, huh?”

Akashi wonders what will the miracle sixth man come up with next for their future matches. He looks forward to playing against Kuroko, maybe more than he has voiced. The scion smiles to himself before drinking from his bottle, his mind deems excitement as the culprit for controlling his upturned lips with a hint of fondness.

“H-How did you know that?”

The tarot reader smiles, “It’s what the deck told me.”

“Fukuda-kun, you’re our friend so let’s hangout whenever we can.”

Kagami grins, “Kuroko’s right, y’know?”

Seirin’s 13 smiles and nods. It feels nice knowing his teammates are his friends too even if they are outside the court.

“I can’t believe Kagami is teaming up with his rivals one day.”

“And you might bulk up, huh?” Furihata teases Kawahara who pushes him playfully at his words.

The tarot reader chuckles as they listen in to the students’ banter, their hands were full with shuffling cards again. “Last but not the least, Kuroko-san.”

A simple mention of his name catches him by surprise as someone often forgotten. Then again, he never planned to get a reading. Should he?

“Anything you want to ask?” The person sets down their deck in the middle of the table.

Kuroko puts his hand on his chin as gave it some thought before giving his answer, “Can you read my past, present, and future?”

The tarot reader smiles and nods, “Do you want to choose the cards?”

Seirin’s 11 nods as he sits down in front of the person. From the very start of Furihata’s, he meticulously observed the tarot reader reorder the cards in front of them to see if there was a pattern. He didn’t know if it’s comforting or unsettling but, he believes this person had no tricks up their sleeve.

“Alright,” The tarot reader does the usual crescent spread in front of him, “pick one card.”

Kuroko eyes each card, no tell sign or unusual pattern standing out, so he instinctively slides one by his left. The card is flipped and the art shows a family, there appears to be mermaids.

“Sorry, but could you pick… two more? I’m feeling there is more to this past of yours.”

The fair teen blinks and nods before complying to their request.

“Woah, what are those cards...” Kagami says out loud as the tarot reader arranges the chosen flipped cards into a triangle.

“The Ten of Cups is one of the happiest cards in the deck. Like I said earlier, Cups pertaining to emotions or feelings.” The reader explains as they keep their eye on Kuroko. “The energy I’m picking up is…. this past of yours isn’t a past life but rather, a bit of your past in this life. You must have not only found family that makes you feel loved in the present but also reunited with the people whom you consider home before them.”

“Is it our team and…” the Generations of Miracles, yes; Kuroko mentally completes what Furihata wants to ask.

The tarot reader looks down on the triangle spread, hand gesturing to the card on the bottom left. “However, it wasn’t an easy road for you, was it? The Five of Cups shows itself and as you can tell from the art, Kuroko-san wasn’t in the best state. I am feeling guilt alongside the pain inflicted upon you and I’m sorry you had to go through it.” The person bows their head at the blue haired male who hums, trying to swallow the heaviness of being in Teikō.

“How about the other card?”

The tarot reader opens their eyes and gestures to the last card on the right, “Ten of Swords in Reverse. Swords symbolize communication, thinking, but sometimes, even making decisions. The presence of this card tells me despite hitting rock-bottom, you got up and learned something valuable after the hurt. The wounds are nearing recovery, and also…I believe I am sensing betrayal one way or another.”

Seirin’s first years felt cold sweat on their back. It’s scary to think about Kuroko’s former teammates represented by the Five of Cups and the lady crying surrounded by water in it could be Kuroko himself in those times. If Fukuda remembers right, the Ten in a card could also mean the end of something.

“Despite the pain, Kuroko-san got to heal and achieved happiness in the end of it all, hence, the Ten of Cups showed itself from the start.”

“You’re amazing,” Kuroko said in his usual tone, “Reader-san.”

“Ah, my name is Hana.” The tarot reader smiles politely. “A translation of my pseudo name.”

Kagami watches the person reorganize the cards again and he can’t help but rethink of the reading he got from them.

“Just a gentle reminder, these readings aren’t set in stone. The only thing constant is change and tarot isn’t an exemption. We all have freedom of choice which can shift more than our own futures. It would bode well if none of you think too much on these, gentlemen.” Hana states as their hands mix the cards while her eyes fixated on the players.

“Thank you, Hana-san, we will heed your advice.”

The tarot reader smiles before spreading the cards like earlier, “It’s no problem, now, please pick the card for your present.”

Kuroko chooses one in the middle.

“The Moon, Kuroko-san is mysterious as ever yet, the cards tell me you are hiding something more about yourself.” Hana smiles as they glance at the card, “A major arcana for your present is pretty big deal.”

“He’s keeping a secret?!”

The tarot reader chuckles, “Don’t we all? Worry not, I’m not feeling any sinister or concerning energy about whatever he’s keeping under wraps to ease your worries.”

Kuroko does his best to keep a neutral expression, “Why must the cards tell this out of the blue?”

“Who knows? Perhaps a validation or it could be related to your last card, Kuroko-san.”

Nodding, “Then, I want to know my future.”

“You’re not making him pick cards again like earlier?”

Hana shakes their head in disagreement, “I don’t want to pry and I actually feel it’s harmless.” They shuffle the cards again despite the curiosity of Kuroko’s teammates who began to think what their friend’s secret is.

“What if Kuroko has a girlfriend?” Furihata theorizes to the team with a gleam in his eye.

Kawahara shook his head, “Think deeper!”

“Guys,” Fukuda has his index fingers pressed on his temples which catches all of their attention, “what if Kuroko can actually solo the Generation of Miracles but he doesn’t want anyone to know his true power?!”

Kuroko shows off his clothed bicep, “You caught me.”

The light of Seirin smacks his shadow in the head, disgruntled. “Ya ain’t fooling anyone.”

“Settle down~” The tarot reader hums as they gesture the spread for Kuroko to choose again, “Time for the finale.”

The blue haired male rubs where he was hit as he chooses a card on the right side.

“The Magician, another major arcana.” Hana whistles after the card is revealed to the students, “It seems whatever you’ve been wanting to manifest or working on will happen.”

“Is there something you’ve been wanting, Kuroko?” Kawahara asks as the ever curious.

Kuroko nods, “Though isn’t this quite common, Hana-san?”

The tarot reader laughs lightly at the question. “I won’t deny that, but if you want me to reveal more, how about pick another?”

And he does so, “It’s—”

“The Moon again?!” Kagami finishes the sentence.

Hana smiles, “It seems it’s related to the illusion you’ve created.”

“Can the cards tell you what it is—”

Kuroko abruptly stands up and bows. “Thank you for the reading, Hana-san. It was insightful for everyone.”

“Oi, Kuroko, just what are you hiding?!”

The former faces them with his deadpanned expression, “It’s for me to know and all of you to find out.” He said before walking away with his teammates running after him. Not like he’ll reveal his most kept secret.

The tarot reader bids their goodbye to the noisy teenagers before they look down at the cards on the table. They turn the leftmost card and it’s revealed to be the Lovers. Hana sighs with a smile on their face, “He’s been putting in the effort on this for quite a while, maybe the Universe will make its move soon.”

Kuroko tunes out Kagami’s voice, mind wandering back to the words Hana had told him. He had no expectations coming in the tarot reading yet now he feels seen. You’d think he’s referring being beamed at by the spotlight as glorious moment but it’s in a different way. Kuroko Tetsuya never felt so transparent in front of anyone without his knowledge. It scares him to be perceived. “..uroko…! Hey!”

“Ah, sorry. What is it, Kagami-kun?”

Eyebrows knitted, “Did what ya hear bother ya?”

Kuroko blinks at the question. He almost forgot they were going to do some late practice. “No. Rather, I felt like I was clear like glass.”

Seirin’s 10 is confused now. “Huh? Well, it was creepy.”

The shadow hums as he opens the doors. “Kagami-kun is scared?”

“Who’s the scaredy cat when you’re the one with a big secret, dumbass?”

Before Kuroko could reply, he realizes the sound of the ball and squeak of sneakers dropped to zero. His eyes look at the court and it sees the familiar hair colors of his former teammates. He bows at them, ”Hello, everyone.”

“Kurokocchi, Kagamicchi!” Kise greets them with a smile, “What were you two talking about?”

“Nothing, Kise.”

“We have ears, ya idiot.” Aomine said as he spun a ball in his fingertip.

Kagami glares at the Tōō ace. “And it’s none of your business, jackass.”

The phantom sixth man lets the two lights bicker as he gets ready to warm up in the corner. He knows he can trust Kagami to keep his mouth shut for this matter. Plus, everyone in this room knew better than to test his patience.

“Kurokocchi~ You know I can keep secret, right?~” Kise tells his stretching mentor who only looked at him. “I promise not to tell anyone!”

Midorima sighs, resuming his shooting practice. “It won’t be secret anymore if someone else besides Kuroko knows.”

“But I’m Kurokocchi’s one and only student, Midorimacchi!” Kise whined, being the curious ball of energy about their sixth man. The four-eyed student was close to shooting a ball directly in the model’s mouth to shut him up.

“Kuroko can tell us when he wants and is ready.” Akashi voices out as he goes to help the blue haired male stretch, “I take it’s not concerning your health, Kuroko?”

It actually does, Akashi. His heart is beating as if it could send a love confession through morse code from the actions of his former captain. But even the emperor must be left in the dark about the matters of his heart.

Kuroko nods, ready to practice his dribbling. “Nothing worrisome, Akashi-kun. Kagami-kun and Kise-kun are just nosy.”

“Oi!” “So mean!” Seirin’s 11 choses to ignore the background sounds.

Smiling gently, “Perhaps. Or maybe that’s how they care about you.”

And does your heart have room for me?

“Is this what popularity feels like?” Kuroko manages to say as he reaches for stray ball. Akashi chuckles as he shook his head at the former’s amusing reply.

“Kuro-chin did get sweets on White Day,” The center speaks out after finishing his late-night practice snack. “Well, Sacchin’s was sweet death.”

The memory of wrapped homemade ‘chocolate’ made most of them shudder. It wasn’t worth reminiscing, but give it to their purple-haired friend to talk about food-related topics.

“At least none of you were her taste tester!”

The court is soon filled with idle chatter, the net swooshing, ball thumping, and the floor squeaking from shoes. It’s indeed a perfect night for some light practice especially to tire out certain players with abundant stamina and drive for the sport.

Two hours in, the RYB aces are left battling it out in their last stretch of energy while the two tallest players left after cleaning their own mess. By the sidelines, Kuroko is lying down with Akashi sitting next to him. Our resident phantom sixth man finished his cooldown stretches (yes, his crush made sure he did it properly) and he’s rethinking whether the three aces knew what light practice meant.

He was supposed to look at how his friends were doing but, can you blame him when his eyes prefer the sight of Rakuzan’s captain? No? Good. Because, this angle of Akashi Seijurouu makes Kuroko’s cheeks felt dyeing itself into its favorite shade of pink. Speaking of colors, the grey shirt on Akashi looks much better than if it were white. Is this what they call color theory?

Or are the rumors on grey clothes true?

“Kuroko?” Akashi’s voice brings him back to reality, “Are you parched?”

“No, but thank you, Akashi-kun.”

“You sure? You were staring into space and gulped.”

Kuroko, he blames dehydration on this, corrects his crush. “I was staring at Akashi-kun.”

The red-haired captain hums, quite tempted. “How’s the view?”

“Fine,” Kuroko says as he sits up with the help of his own arms, “grey looks really good on Akashi-kun.”

Akashi narrows his ruby eyes just as he smirks at the former. “Why, thank you, Kuroko.” He leans closer before purring into his ear, “Still thirsty?”

The breath Kuroko releases his hitched and Akashi answers it with a low chuckle. Tension off the court is quite addicting when they’re this close. Maybe closing a certain distance should be the next step—

“Kagami, Kuroko!” The doors open with a clang, revealing Koganei and Mitobe right behind him, “Coach said that’s enough practice already.”

A few protests from the battling aces were in favor for the two players at the sidelines from attracting any attention towards them. After a quick cleanup, they make their way to their respective rooms and Kuroko is fighting a lonely battle of making sure his face remains untouched from any red shades. He pretends Akashi’s subtle lingering gaze on him the whole time was non-existent. After all, the Rakuzan captain was only teasing testing him.

…Right, Cupid?

OMAKE/EXTRA:

“I’m just saying, Kuroko keeping his girlfriend a secret is possible!”

Kawahara groans, “Well, does he even have someone he likes romantically?”

“That’s easy, let’s just ask him.”

The first-year center facepalms as he follows his friends to Kuroko’s room. “You think he’ll actually tell us?”

“I do have feelings for someone.” Kuroko said before getting comfy in his bed, dreamland is calling him so forgive his slippery mouth tonight.

“WHAT?!”

Hyuuga barges in the Seirin duo’s room with obvious fatigue and annoyance in his face, “First years, have some goddamn respect and go to sleep!”