Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Suna noticed it first- something was off. He’d seen the Miya twins argue, clash and snap at each other for the majority of their lives. Yet, this was different. Felt more serious. The air between them lacked the usual spite and fire. It carried something heavier- silence. The Miya twins were quiet- too quiet. They weren’t yelling at each other- not even talking. And the calm was anything but usual for Atsumu and Osamu.

When they entered the gym this sunny afternoon, the twins didn’t talk, didn’t banter and and didn’t so much as look at each other. Suna wasn’t the only one to notice. The team sensed it too but they brushed it off as another one of the twins’ quarrels. But, oh Lord, they were all wrong.

The air in the gym smelled of rubber and seat, the bouncing of volleyballs and squeaking shoes echoed from the walls, interrupted by the occasional shout. It was their last year of high school, the last few weeks before everyone would go their own ways.

Suna watched the twins through his phone camera, ready to capture another playful argument for his collection. Only, this time, his finger hesitated over the record button. Something about them felt heavier, quieter.  Totally wrong. Whatever this was, it wasn’t just a fight.

During a three- on- three match- Osamu, Atsumu and Suna on one side- it became painfully obvious. The famous Miya Twins were missing each other- literally. They weren’t in sync at all. Atsumu’s sets missed Osamu; Osamu jumped too high or low. And Atsumu never failed a set- to anyone at any times. The same for Osamu. The effortless rhythm they normally shared had vanished. For as long as Suna had known them they’d moved in perfect sync- as if they knew the thoughts of the other. He thought he should ask them what happened, thought he should say something, but he didn’t. After all, they were the Miya Twins. Always together, since birth. They came in a pack and were supposed to stay like that. Atsumu and Osamu- Tsumu and Samu. One couldn’t live without the other- of that Suna was sure.

He didn’t know how wrong he was. 

They were about to call it a day, when their trainer made an announcement.

“So, listen guys. As you all now, it’s the end of the school soon and the third years are leaving us. To give you all a final good memory I organized one last match, next Friday. Itachiyama institute will pay us a visit. So be ready. And now go home.”
After the initial shock of that little Information everyone cleaned up and prepared to go home. Suna looked for the Twins which was a lot harder without their usual banter.

He found them in the locker room- the silence carrying unsaid words. Atsumu was already changed and about to head out, when Suna entered. The blonde setter wished him a quick goodbye and was out the door, before Suna could catch him. Shit, Suna thought, he’s damn fast.
For a moment Suna just stood there, watching the closed door then turned. Osamu was sitting on the bench, slowly packing his things.
With furrowed eyebrows Suna slowly approached Osamu, watched him meticulously folding his towel until it could even fit in the back pocket of Suna’s pants.

“So,” Suna stopped in front of Osamu, arms crossed. “What’s the matter with the two of ya?” Osamu shot to his feet and turned, avoiding Suna’s eyes.

“There`s nothin’ ta tell. Don’t know what ya mean.” Hell would freeze over, before Suna would believe in his lie.

“Yea, sure thing. And I’m Santa Clause.” A bit more serious he tried again, while grabbing Osamu’s hand. “Did ya fight or somethin’ like that? Ya sure actin’ hella suspicious.” With a sigh Osamu slumped back down onto the bench, buried his head in his hands.

“Well, I think I messed up. Told Tsumu that I won’t go pro with him.” Osamu’s voice- low and fragile- carried something more, something he didn’t seemed ready to share.
Suna understood, knew that Atsumu planned on going pro with Osamu by his side. Osamu on the other hand wanted something different. He had told Suna months ago about his plans to be a chef. Apparently, he hadn’t told Atsumu. Hearing this now must have been devastating for him. Yet, Suna couldn’t fathom this to be enough to break their bond. There had to be something else.

“There’s more, right?” Osamu’s eyes flashed up to meet Suna’s, his gaze unfocused, eyes slightly wet. For a moment Suna saw the pain and regret in his eyes.

“How’ d ya know?” Suna heard the voice of the grey- haired Twin break, watched the single tear rolling down his cheek.

Seeing Osamu like this- wrecked and dejected- Suna kneeled down and stroke away the tear with his hand, then pulled him into a tight embrace. Normally, he’d be the first to make fun of the Twins- but this seemed too serious for jokes.
Osamu freed himself from Suna’s grip and straightened his back- trying to compose himself. Suna was eager for answers- to know the reason for their fight, to know how to fix this. But if he wanted to get any Information out of Osamu, he had to be patient. So, Suna just sat down beside him and lay a hand on his shoulder- reassured him of his presence.

“I know, ‘cause I know ya two. Atsumu’s ma best friend, ya know that. I’d have ta be blind and deaf not to notice the weird behaviour of ya.” An hollow laugh escaped Osamu’s lips, his facial expression darkened suddenly.

“Yeah, forgot that fer a moment. Well, I get goin’. See ya!”

Osamu took his bag and fled the room, Suna- confused and irritated- was left behind.  Suna wondered if he should try and talk to Atsumu. But the blond was a lot more secretive than Osamu, if he wanted to be. Well, he would see him tonight anyways, so he would see if he could get something out if this dickhead.

Upon arriving home, the first thing Suna did was open his notebook- checking his e- Mails. He long decided to play volleyball on a professional level after high school- even had a few trainings with some division one teams. Last week he had signed a contract and was waiting now on a few more information- his schedule, the dorm room situation and a few minor things. The move to shizuoka would be a drastic change in his live and Suna felt his heart flutter – thinking about all the changes. The people he would leave behind. His heart ached when he saw his best friends face smiling down at him from an old photo, Suna had hung up on the wall. Something in his stomach clenched and twisted and he felt the sudden urge to break something.
Atsumu, that idiot, hadn’t told him which team he chose and Suna feared going on without him- obviously he wouldn’t tell Atsumu that. Even more after today’s events.

Lost in thought he didn’t notice the time pass by or the sun dipping low, casting long shadows across his room. Suna laid on his bed- eyes tracing the photos pinned to his wall. Snapshots of the team, his classmates and of course the Twins. One stood out among the rest- his favourite one: Atsumu’s arm thrown around his brother’s shoulders, his other hand in Osamu’s hair, both of them radiant with laughter and triumph. Suna remembered standing beside them, watching that unfiltered joy spill out between them.
He loved this picture- not for the victory, but what it revealed. The deep bond the Twins shared- fierce and unspoken. Unbreakable. Suna had seen it countless times, but here it was capture in one frame. The pure joy and pride in Atsumu’s eyes, the absolute trust in Osamu’s. It was pure love, plain and raw- and so unmistakably them.

Suna didn’t realize it at first, but after he held the developed photo in his hands it was clear, that he loved them- not romantically- more like family. Atsumu and Suna had clicked from the beginning- like he’d found his soulmate. With Osamu, well their relationship was a bit more difficult, but he too held a special place in Suna’s heart.

Leaving them wasn’t easy- if he was honest the thought alone scared him. If Atsumu had just told him which team he preferred than they could have joined together, but that stubborn idiot didn’t. And so Suna had to make his decision.

Frustrated with himself he stood up and realized all at once that his room was pitch black- no light at all from outside. Huh? Was it already that late? Confused Suna searched for his phone, checking the time: almost seven p.m.!

Wasn’t Atsumu supposed to come over by six? Frantically Suna scrolled through their chat- found the message. Yep, six o’clock. So, where the hell was Atsumu?

Suna dialled Atsumu’s number- yes, he knew it by heart- and waited for the idiot setter to pick up. After five minutes of silence he tried Osamu’s instead.

Just seconds later Osamu picked up, sounding out of breath.

“Suna? What’s up?”

“Is Tsumu at home?” For a moment all Suna heard was silence, then a sigh.

“I’m fine, thank ya fer asking. How about ya? Ah, great that’s-“

“Cut it, Samu.” Suna snapped at him, then realized Osamu wasn’t at fault. “Sorry Samu, Just… We were supposed ta meet an hour ago. But Tsumu’s not here.”

“Well, he’s not here either. Haven’t seen him since practice.” Suna exhaled a breath he didn’t know he held in.

“I’m sorry fer snapping at ya Samu. Really. Just… Tsumu’s always on time.” Not for the first time, the silence between them felt heavy and uncomfortable- loaded with things unsaid. It was so difficult to talk to Osamu sometimes. Like he had stepped on a minefield and now need to watch to not get blown up. What was Osamu’s problem with him? Sometimes they laughed together and seconds later he’d snap at him.
And what was going on with the twins?

“Yeah, sure. Tsumu’s all ya care about.” The other line clicked, letting Suna alone with the revelation. What the hell? Suna blinked at the dark screen tried to make sense of what happened. What did Osamu mean?

Frustrated he tried to reach Atsumu again- and again. After the twentieth missed call his heart dropped and he felt his mind go blank. His heart sped up and his mind replayed all kid of horror scenarios.  Worried Suna jumped up, put on his shoes and a jacket. Without thinking too much he sped through the door into the dark night- to find his best friend.

Suna searched all the spots he knew Atsumu liked. By the time he found him, the sky was full of stars and the moon bathed everything in a silver light.  It looked like a fairy tale, where everything’s possible. God, he wished that this was true, but reality differed. Under different circumstances it would stroke Suna as romantic. But now the only thought occupying his mind was get his hands on the blonde idiot and-
Out of the corner of his eyes he caught the glimpse of blonde hair. As he turned he found a person sitting on a bench near the playground. He hurried over- his heart still racing in his chest. When he reached it, he saw that it was indeed Atsumu on that bench. The worry inside him shifted and was replaced by something else. Suna’s face fell and something hot bubbled up in his stomach- tried to get out. The lump in his throat intensified. Subconsciously Suna grinded his teeth together and clenched his hands into fists. Anger rolled through him like a flood as he saw Atsumu just sitting there- perfectly fine- looking at the stars.

Unable to control himself anymore, he rushed forward and pulled the startled Atsumu up by his collar.

“What the hell, Tsumu!” yelled Suna and pushed him back. “I’m running around, worried if something happened to ya! And you…” As he saw Atsumu’s eyes widened in shock, got a glimpse of the tears still hanging in his lashes. Suna stopped in his tracks, tried to calm himself down. He took one, two, three deep breaths, eyes closed. As he opened them again, Atsumu’s head hung low, drawing circles on his thigh with his finger.

“Seriously Tsumu, What’re ya thinkin’. I’ve waited fer ya. Called ya!”

Suna could pinpoint the exact moment Atsumu realized he’d stood him up- how his head shot up, eyes wide with realization, then dropped to the floor again, almost shameful.

“Sorry, Rin. I forgot we’ve got plans.”

“Sorry, my ass.” Reluctantly Suna sat down beside Atsumu and for a long time they stayed in silence. Suna noticed that it was different from before, when he talked to Osamu. This silence now was not stirring him up. Weird. Why was that so?

Suna flinched when Atsumu leaned his head on his shoulder, his blonde hair tickling Suna’s neck.
“Tsumu?” Carefully Suna tried to look at his friends face but only saw blonde hair.

“Just a moment, Rin. Let me stay like this.” The trembling in Atsumu’s voice effectively stopped Suna from responding further. He didn’t sound like the Atsumu he knew, but more raw and vulnerable- broken. So, Suna let him, thought they both needed this.

The soft blowing of the wind through the trees was all they heard for a while, interrupted only by a few cars in passing. Then he heard Atsumu’s breath tighten, like he tried to fight down tears. Instinctively Suna put his arms around Atsumu’s shoulder and pulled him into a hug. The sudden embrace stilled Atsumu for a moment before he got limp and slung his arms around Suna’s waist. He cried for a long time- hot wet tears soaked Suna’s shirt but he didn’t mind. He’d never seen Atsumu like that- the fight with Osamu must be pretty bad for him to be so shaken. Overwhelmed with Atsumu’s outbreak and his own emotions, Suna didn’t know what he should do. Was there something he could do or say to make it better? Was he supposed to ease Atsumu’s pain? Helplessly he could only hold Atsumu until he calmed down.

In this moment, Suna understood, that helplessness was his least favourite feeling.

Once Atsumu calmed down, they simply sat side by side- letting the comfort in each other’s warmth. The distant sound of the city mixed with their own heartbeat drifted by.
“Tsumu, do ya hate it that much? Ya know, Samu’s choosing another career? Is that the reason for this fight?” Suna tried to sound neutral, tried not to accuse Atsumu. But when he Atsumu stiffened beside him Suna looked up into his face. He saw Atsumu’s eyes turned cold and empty- missing all warmth and spark- Suna knew he messed up.

“So, ya think that too. Should’ve known it. Thought ya knew me better. Knew that I wasn’t that petty or dumb.”

There was a chilling calm in his voice- collected and distant, so unlike anything Suna was used to hearing from him. Without saying another word Atsumu rose and walked away- vanished into the night. Contrary to what most believed, Atsumu was usually the more reasonable twin. It was Osamu who swung between moods, at least as far as Suna knew. So seeing Atsumu change like this, left Suna greatly unsettled. He didn’t know what triggered his shift, but it must’ve been something he’d said.

He needed to talk to him again.

The next few days felt strange to Suna. Atsumu called in sick at school and Osamu was quieter than usual. Suna had tried to talk to Osamu but got next to no response. Suna could only find out, that Atsumu’s holed up in his room- barely leaving. Watching the Twins act like that frightened Suna. He had to do something.

As the team’s vice-captain, Suna was in charge of training for the next few days, which kept him busy enough to distracted from the Twins fight. He’d sent Atsumu a bunch of messages, but none were answered. It felt like Atsumu was deliberately avoiding him- cutting him out and he wouldn’t allow that- not now not ever. But all he could do at the moment was wait.

Friday came soon and Atsumu was still absent. Would he really miss this game? Suna and the team couldn’t imagine that, but had to accept reality. When Itachiyama arrived, Atsumu wasn’t there. Suna tried to reach him again, only to be left on read.

Suna recognized a few faces from the other school. They’ve met on a few games before. One of them was the libero, a short guy with funny eyebrows. Komori Motoya hurried over to him, smiling bright and happy.

“Yo, Suna! Guess what?” Komori practically jumped up in joy like a rabbit on too much coffee. The sight made Suna laugh a bit and he rested his hands on his hips, as he took in the lively presence of the other. Suna noticed the man following not far behind Komori.

“Enlighten me, Toya.” Suna liked the libero, he was a little sunshine. In stark contrast to the black-haired man behind Komori, the signature glare prominent on his face. Like all times, Sakusa was wearing a medical mask. His eyes darted around the hall, like searching for someone. Who was he looking for?
Komori interrupted his observation effectively.

“You and I will soon play together!” Now that was a surprise and Suna felt his lips quirk into a big grin.

“Ya joining EJP too, Toya? That’s a pleasant surprise.” Komori practically beamed with a wide grin. Suna still couldn’t believe that Komori and Sakusa were cousins, looking at their opposite personalities. A second later, Komori glanced back at his cousin and cleared his throat. His usual loud voice grew quiet as he turned back to Suna.
“Ah, Suna. Do you know where Atsumu is?” The question hung in the air, sharp and unexpected. Suna felt his grin falter, a knot tightening in his stomach.

“Why?” Sakusa’s all-too-perceptive eyes flicked to him, and instinctively, Suna wanted to shield Atsumu from this man. Suna glared at Sakusa, he had a feeling the Ace was the one behind the question. It was dumb, but he didn’t want Sakusa anywhere near Atsumu.

“Well,” Komori scratched the back of his neck. “We haven’t seen him yet. Thought to say hello.” Suna’s eyes darkened as he looked at the two in front of him. Komori seemed uneasy; Sakusa, as always, was unreadable. The guy was an enigma to him, but Suna didn’t like him.

“Atsumu hadn’t been here all week. He’s been sick.”

Sakusa’s sharp eyes went widened briefly, then he dashed off, phone in hand. Komori and Suna looked at he vanished outside of the gym.

“Tell him to get well soon, Suna. Okay?”

“Sure thing, Toya.”

They talked a bit more about the Rajins, they both would join, then it was time for the match to start.

Without Atsumu as setter and with an unfocused Osamu, they lost terribly. Suna felt crushed- , frustrated and angry at himself and at the Twins even though he knew that this wasn’t fair. But he couldn’t help himself, he’d witnessed Osamu standing on court lost in his mind, searching for a brother, who wasn’t there. It was really hard to see him like that. And Suna felt his chest tighten and his heart sped up at the sight. He almost reached – to comfort Osamu? He shook his head- probably the adrenaline of the game.

As the school year neared its end, Suna grew more nervous and frustrated with the situation. The Twins ongoing silence made everyone anxious. The team had tried to talk to both of them but to no avail. The brothers flat out refused to discuss their fight.

With this going on, Suna feared that reconciliation would be much harder or even impossible.  And all of that because Osamu wouldn’t go pro? At least that was what everyone else thought. Which made Atsumu the bad guy in everyone’s eyes- and Osamu the victim. Suddenly it wasn’t important anymore that Atsumu was their team captain or the number one setter in all out Japan. Suna watched how Atsumu was left alone, avoided even. Strangely, Atsumu didn’t seem to mind- that fact was wrong on so many levels. He was left alone and didn’t even try to fight the rumours. Atsumu was supposed to laugh, tease and enjoy his last days at this school, not to be left alone with snide remarks waiting in every corner.

Even with Suna, Atsumu acted distant, sure he spoke to Suna, but only when necessary—never asking about his future, his chosen team, or even how he felt. It hurt Suna deeply to watch their friendship unravel, powerless to stop it. At the thought of losing his best friend, his eyes stung and his heart clenched. Nausea twisted his stomach, and he gripped nearby furniture to steady himself against the sudden dizziness. Suna was so afraid that he couldn’t sleep properly or eat. But there was only one thing he knew for sure: he couldn’t give up. He had to do something.

He began planning in his mind how to end this torment.

Three days until graduation. Time was running out and Suna got more nervous each day. His attempts to talk to the twins were all in vain, which frustrated Suna even more. Since their encounter at the park, Suna had the feeling that Atsumu avoided him.
Alone in his room he felt so empty, cut off from the life he’s used to. He missed his best friend. So much. He’d never felt so alone before, ironic because he was left alone all his life. Until someday in middle school a young boy with a big smile and even bigger ego decided to be Suna’s friend. It was the first time in his life that someone wanted to be by his side- spent time with him. And that had felt so good- maybe too good. Atsumu was like the sun itself, lighting up his whole existence - till he forgot how it felt to wander in darkness.
Osamu had always been quieter, more composed- but his mood swings and protectiveness were something else entirely. And whoever would mess with Atsumu had Osamu on his back too. Well, until now that is.

Suna looked around in his room, lit only by a small lamp at his desk. It wasn’t that late, but outside, the world was dimmed by clouds - promising rain. When his eyes fell on the photos lining his wall, his heart clenched and his throat tightened. He couldn’t bear to lose that.
Clutching his shirt tightly he took a few deep breaths to steady his racing heart. Tears gathered behind his eyes but Suna swallowed hard to hold them back. He missed Atsumu and he had no idea how to fix this.

The doorbell rang and startled Suna sprang to his feet. Hope bloomed in his heart- maybe this was Atsumu. He dashed to the door and flung it open, only to reveal blonde hair. It was really him: Atsumu. Suna stared in disbelieve, unable to trust his voice to make a sound.

Atsumu seemed embarrassed. He just stood there- shoulders hunched and a hand cradling the back of his neck. The blonde looked at his feet, avoiding Suna’s eyes.

“Tsumu...” Suna breathed his best friends name like it was something precious.

“Hi Rin. Sorry for the late visit. Can I come in?” He pointed inside and Suna realized that he stood frozen in place, effectively blocking the doorway. Suna took a quick step to the side and cleared his throat.
“Sorry. Yeah. Sure. Come in.” When Atsumu walked past him, his scent calming Suna’s nerves. Something inside him eased at the familiarity. “Yer always welcome, Tsumu.”

Atsumu stopped in his track and looked back over his shoulder, a crooked smile on his face- eyes still glinting with unshed tears. Suna took in the haunted look on his friend’s face, saw the dark circles under his eyes and the redness in them. Atsumu had lost weight, not much but it was visual. What stood out most and worried Suna instantly was the cut high on Atsumu’s cheek. After he shut the door, Suna inched closer to his friend. With deliberate slowness Suna lifted his arm to lightly caress the wound on Atsumu’s cheek. Atsumu didn’t avoid his hand, like expected, he leaned into it.

“What the hell happened, Tsumu?” Suna asked quietly, fingers still resting lightly on the cut. Atsumu’s expression darkened , the silence stretched between them.
“I wasn’t sure if ya still want ta see me. Ya know, after last time. After the story telling at school.” Atsumu looked down, suddenly very interested in the pattern of the floor. Suna knew what he meant- Atsumu being blamed for the Twins fight, making him the villain of this story.
Smiling softly Suna took his best friends’ hand and pulled him to his room. When their hands met, Suna felt his world shift back in place- felt the sun rise again. He swore to never let go of this warmth again.

When they entered the room, Suna pushed Atsumu onto his bed and inspected the wound on his face carefully.

“Ya got into a fight again, huh?”

At least, Atsumu had the decency to look ashamed- even if mixed with pride.

“They had it comin’. Tellin’ shit about my brother.” Ah, now Suna understood. Of course, it had to be because of Osamu that this idiot would get into a fight. Even if the Twins weren’t on good terms at the moment, Atsumu would defend his brother, no matter what.

“How’s the other guy holdin’ up. Ya didn’t kill him, right?”

A small huff came from Atsumu, almost a laugh.

“He’s alive. No need ta worry.” After Suna placed a Band-Aid on the cut he slumped down beside Atsumu, turning his head to look into his eyes.

“So, tell me Tsumu. Why are ya avoidin’ me?”

“Straight to t’ point, huh?” Atsumu smirked and Suna felt the sudden urge to hit him, but restrained himself. After all he wanted to know the truth, he could punch him later. “’m not avoidin’ ya. Not really. But well, I was pretty hurt at what ya said last time. Needed a bit of time ta think.” Suna’s face flushed red, he hadn’t meant to hurt Atsumu, didn’t know he even could.

“Sorry, Tsumu. Didn’t mean ta hurt ya.” Atsumu shot him a crooked smile, looking around. His eyes landed on the photos lined up on the wall, in seconds Suna saw a tear tracing down his cheek. Curious Suna searched for the picture that caused this reaction and soon found it. Suna had taken that one in secret, one of the few of the twins not fighting. They sat back to back and Atsumu had leaned his head on his brother’s shoulder. Both of them laughed happily. Suna remembered that day, he had searched everywhere for Atsumu and found him talking with Osamu in an empty classroom. A rare moment, where he witnessed the close bond displayed.

“Ya miss him.” It was a fact, so obvious in Atsumu’s face.

“Every second of the day…” Then more tears flowed down Atsumu’s cheeks, creating drops on his shirt. Instinctively Suna pulled him closer and wrapped his arms around him. The tight embrace soothed Suna too, the warmth of Atsumu eased his heart. It would be okay, everything will be fine. Suna held Atsumu when he broke down trembling with cries. His ragged breath muffled through the shirt where Atsumu had buried his face. They stayed that way for a long time, letting the emotions run free. Lost in themselves they didn’t hear the heavy rain pouring down or the strikes of lighting outside. The world narrowed down to leave only the two of them in the calm of Suna’s room. A loud thunder startled both of them. Shocked they flinched away, eyes wide for a second, hearts pounding fast. As they recognized the thunderstorm outside they both laughed for being scared.

Suna stood up and took a look outside only to turn to Atsumu with furrowed eyebrows.

“Guess ya stayin’ the night, Tsumu.”

“Yea, Think so too. Gotta call home ta tell them.”

The two spent the rest of the evening talking and laughing like they used to. It was only until later, when Suna caught Atsumu surveying the room, did a terrifying revelation dawned on him. Atsumu looked around as if trying to memorize everything—as if this would be the last time. Suna’s heart sped up at this thought, the lump in his throat returned and he barely processed everything in his head. Atsumu seemed to feel him being silent and turned to look at him and now Suna could see the real reason for Atsumu’s late visit. No, this couldn’t be, he wouldn’t do that to him. Would he? Suna knew that they wouldn’t stay in the same town after graduation, but this felt final. Not a see ya- more like farewell.

“Tsumu…” Suna’s low voice broke the silence and it seemed that Atsumu already knew what he was thinking. Atsumu smiled- small, almost apologetic. Rage pulsed through Suna and at the same time he felt the numbness in his arms and legs. “Tell me what I think is wrong, Tsumu. Please, yer not here ta say goodbye. Right.” But his plea was in vain. When Atsumu finally spoke, his words shattered something deep inside Suna.

“I’ll not be there fer graduation ceremony. Wanted ta see ya one last time- to tell ya that I’m sorry and that I’m so grateful to know ya.” Atsumu’s voice broke a bit at the end but he forced himself to continue.

“I’m leavin’ tomorrow. To Osaka. ‘m not comin’ back.”

Chapter Text

“I’m leavin’ tomorrow. To Osaka. ‘m not comin’ back.”

Suna took a few steps back, eyeing Atsumu in disbelieve, he felt his stomach turn.

“Ya don’t mean that, right? Tsumu? Ya don’t- Osamu. Does Samu know’s about this?”

Atsumu turned his head to the side, avoiding Suna’s eyes. But the latter had caught the painful look in his friends’ eyes. The shadows that haunted him. Instinctively Suna knew the answer but he didn’t have to like it.

“So, no. Samu doesn’t about ya leavin’ tomorrow. Why, Tsumu? He’s yer brother, fer god’s sake!”

“Please, Rin. It’s hard enough as it is. He doesn’t know, ‘cause it’s better that way. Trust me. This is easier fer both of us.” Suna was sure there was more, thought he saw it in Atsumu’s eyes for a second, than it was gone. “I beg ya, don’t spill this until I’m gone, will ya? In name of our friendship?”

That wasn’t fair, Suna thought, Atsumu knew that Suna couldn’t say no, if he mentioned it that way. That mean bastard was using their friendship against him. Reluctantly Suna nodded.

“Fine. I won’t talk to Osamu, but if he asks, I won’t lie, Tsumu.”

“Fair. Thank’s a lot, Rin.” The silence followed was only interrupted by the heavy rain against the windows and the occasional thunder. Atsumu seemed like he wanted to say more. Suna noticed how he scratched the back of his neck, looking around like he couldn’t find the right words. Sure, that Atsumu wouldn’t say more, Suna turned around and fumbled with the futon. It was late and he was tired. Then Atsumu broke the silence with his low voice, stopping Suna in his tracks.

“Will ya do me a favour, Rin? Fer me?”

Suna was sure he would regret saying yes. He really tried to say no, because from the haunted expression of Atsumu, Suna wouldn’t like what was coming. Nonetheless, he heard himself agree.

“Yeah, sure, Tsumu.” Suna tried to sound neutral, to not show the turmoil inside him. He felt that the favour Atsumu asked him to do, would change a lot. He didn’t know how much he will come to regret that.

“Will ya look after Samu fer me? Ya know when I’m gone. He needs a friend- no- he needs ya. Will ya do that fer me?”

Oh, screw him. This idiot, asking for something like that. To Suna this almost felt like Atsumu was planning to never see either of them again. But that couldn’t be. Suna would see Atsumu again. He had to.
Already regretting this favour Suna felt something familiar bubbling up inside him. The same ugly feeling like before, in the park.
“What’re ya sayin’ Tsumu! Ya sound like yer about ta die.”

Immediately Suna noticed the shame and regret in Atsumu’s whole posture- in his eyes. Then it was gone, hidden behind a fake smile- not even reaching Atsumu’s eyes. Suna recognized this one- the fake for the fans, not real. Suna felt his hands grow unbearably cold, like someone turned a bucket of icewater over his head.

“Tsumu!”, Suna screamed, not caring for the late hour. “What the hell ya mean? Tell me!”

“Already told ya, ‘m not comin’ back. And I. I don’t want us to continue bein’ friends. Samu needs ya more. Ya have ta understand.”

Now, Suna was sure he would lose his mind today. His emotions swirled wild inside of him. But the hot sensation was very prominent in his chest, pushing every rational thought aside.
“But yer both ma friends, Tsumu! Don’t ya know what this means ta me, what ya mean ta me? Ya want me ta choose Osamu over you?”

Atsumu put his hands in front of him in defence, but Suna was faster. Enraged he stomped forward and lunged Atsumu in the air by the collar. Pulling him close they stood nose to nose. Suna’s breath ragged as he tried to make sense of everything- looking at his so-called best friend in the dark of the room. Behind them the thunderstorm erupted- effectively mirroring Suna’s anger.

“I’m not makin’ ya choose, Rin. I’m choosin’ fer ya. I’m gone tomorrow and we’ll not see each other again. Well at least not off court.”

Seconds later, Suna’s fist met Atsumu’s face. Atsumu fell to the ground, pained sounds coming from him. In shock Suna stared at his hands, not able to comprehend what he just did. Suna’s knuckles still buzzed from the punch, the anger vanished instantly, replaced by shame. He had hurt his best friend- shame and guilt overwhelming in heart. Suna dropped to his knees, head pressed to Atsumu’s chest as the sound of his broken sobs mingled with the storm outside. The lump in his throat felt too tight to breath and the tears blurred his vision further, the only thing grounding Suna in the situation was the familiar scent of Atsumu. Tears flowed freely over his face and landed on Atsumu’s shirt. In seconds it was soaked and clinged to Atsumu’s skin.

Suna didn’t understand why Atsumu was doing this to him. Didn’t he know what this friendship meant to Suna?

“Why’re ya doin’ this ta me, Tsumu. Do I mean so little to ya?”

Suna felt the featherlight touch of Atsumu’s trembling hand on his head- stroking his hair softly. Why was Atsumu still comforting him, despite the pain he must feel from Suna’s punch. But of course- it was so much like Atsumu to care for others first.

“Ya mean the world to me, Rin. Ya should know that. That’s why it has ta be ya. I wouldn’t trust anyone else with my little brother.” And softer, only a whisper in Suna’s ear he asked again: “Rin, will ya look after Samu fer me?” Time seemed to stop, the storm outside silenced- leaving only their breaths and beating hearts. And Suna only nodded, because there was nothing else he could do- even though saying yes felt like tearing a whole through his heart.  

Starring into the darkness of his bedroom, Suna laid awake, listening to the rain still falling heavy to the ground. He couldn’t sleep and somehow, he knew Atsumu’s the same. The punch from him would leave a ugly mark on his friends face and the guilt and shame came back to wash over him again. How could he hurt Atsumu like that? He should have better control over his emotions, even though Atsumu send him through an emotional roller coaster these days. Thinking back to everything that happened and what will come, Suna found himself wondering about one thing. He heard Atsumu’s soft breaths- restless.

“Tsumu? Ya awake?” A long moment there was only silence, then Suna heard the huff from the futon.
“Yeah, Can’t sleep.” Suna hesitated for a moment, thought about the past few days- how everything fell apart. He swallowed hard- once, twice.

“Can I ask ya something?” His heart beat fast in his chest, his throat tightened. The Thunderstorm outside evened out as Suna watched the shadows on the ceiling.

“Yeah, sure.” Atsumu’s voice came out more like a whisper, like he feared Suna’s question. Suna licked his lips, thought about how to voice the question. Every word he could say felt wrong. Still, he couldn’t let go.

“What... What was yer fight really about? I know the rumours- everyone says its because Osamu won’t go pro. But I watched ya two fer years. I know ya better than them.” Suna hesitated for a moment, fumbling for the right words. He turned his body to look in the direction he assumed Atsumu to be. The dark world outside shifted and suddenly the silver light of the moon illuminated the features of Atsumu’s face- directly looking at Suna. For a moment Suna didn’t know what to say.

“You two, yer not like that. There has to be more. Tell me. Please.”

Atsumu’s expression unreadable in the darkness, darkened further as he looked down. He almost looked lost, not knowing where to start and what to say. Suna’s heartbeat pounded in his ears as he sat up. He was about to reach out to Atsumu, when he looked up- smiling at him with a look Suna couldn’t read. Instantly he retreated his hand, knuckles white with tension. The moonlight drew soft patterns on the walls, creating a soft earie feeling. Almost magical.

“That. It’s my fault. This whole situation’s ‘cause of me.”

Suna’s eyes widened in shock. He didn’t know what to say. Stunned he sat in his bed just staring at his friend’s face in the dim light of the night. The fury built up inside him again- hot and unwelcome. Suna tried to breath it away, closed his eyes for a moment. Seconds later a thought crossed his mind.
“Ya want ta take the blame fer it? Why? A fall out’s never one sided. Why would ya take the blame-“

The look in Atsumu’s eyes- unwavering and intense- shut him up for good. It told Suna more, than words could ever have. The determination in his face showed him, that Atsumu meant everything he said. That he believed in it, even when Suna felt deep in his heart, that it was wrong. But It left no room for further discussion, not when Atsumu’s decisions and believes were set in stone.

Suna laid back, staring at the ceiling again- mind buzzing with even more questions than before. His restless thoughts mingled with the soft rain outside as he clutched his shirt tight, searching for something to hold onto. A silent tear run down his face, wet and hot, heavy with words he couldn’t say. The finality hit him: Atsumu was leaving him- them all- behind and Suna desperately hoped he would change his mind before it’s too late.

Suna woke up the next morning to blazing sunlight, the futon beside him was empty. He rushed to sit up, but the futon stayed empty- Atsumu was gone. Simply vanished, without a single goodbye. Closing his eyes, Suna felt the feart tears fell down on his shirt. Alone in his room he didn’t find a reason to hold back anymore, so he let himself mourn over his lost friendship. Suna cried until he had no tears left. He felt hollow, ripped open. Like a whole growing inside him, with nothing to fill it. Emptiness was all that’s left inside him, when he remembered the promise Atsumu forced him in.

Will ya look after Samu fer me?

How could he ask something like this? Knowing damn well that it was Atsumu who Suna cared so deeply about. Osamu was- well, he didn’t know why but the other Twin didn’t seem to like Suna that much. Not for the first time Suna wondered what Atsumu was thinking. Making Suna take care of Osamu- that would end in a disaster. Shaking his head, Suna forced himself to stand up- than sat back, when he heard his phone ringing on the bed. Without looking at the Caller ID Suna accepted it.

“Yeah?”

“Suna? Is Atsumu with ya?”

Osamu. Suna closed his eyes- remembering his promise, not to tell Osamu of Atsumu’s whereabouts- and exhaled deeply. On the other line he heard Osamu walking back and forth, rummaging around somewhere- the clatter of kitchen utensils. Osamu was probably in the kitchen, making something delicious again. Instantly Suna’s stomach remembered that he missed breakfast. It growled.

“No. He’s not here.” Anymore, he added only in his mind.

“Strange. “

“I thought ya two weren’t on talking terms at the moment, Samu?” Why not get a little bit more information out of him, Suna thought.

“I’ll still know if he’s been home. And he wasn’t- not yesterday, not today and I think he wasn’t home tonight too.” Suna had wondered if this Twin- Telepathy- thing was real or not, either way Osamu seems to know that something was not right.

“He was here.” Suna heard himself say and noticed that the other line got eerily quiet- no noise came through. Than something shattered. Loud, followed by curses from Osamu. Seems like he dropped something.

“Ya okay, Samu? Hey what happened?”

The line fell shut. Suna looked at his phone- eyes wide with shock. Did Osamu just hung up on him? And what happened there? Too curious- and maybe a bit more worried that he led on- Suna got speed-dressed and was out the house in seconds. On the way to the Twins house he told himself again and again, that he wasn’t worried, no, he only fulfilled his promise to Atsumu.

Upon entering the house with the spare key, he had, he more heard Osamu than saw him. Still cursing, the other guy stood in the kitchen- the broken shards of a bowl and the contents lay to his feet- his hands under the water in the sink.

“Samu! What the hell happened?” Suna run over to him- careful not to step on a shard. Looking for any injuries, Suna took Osamu’s hands in his- inspected all sides of them. When he found only a bit of red skin he sighed and looked up into the flushed face of Osamu. His eyes were wide and his mouth agape, he looked at Suna like he was a ghost.
“What? Suna? Why are ya here?”

“What a stupid question! Ya shut the line after something fell and ya cursed. Did ya think I just sit at home and let ya get hurt?” Suna didn’t notice that he raised his voice, but the look in Osamu’s face told him so. Why did they both make his blood boil so much. The Miya Twins made him lose his coolness for good. Shaking his head, he looked at Osamu again.

“Everything okay, Samu?” Suna saw the other swallow than Osamu composed himself and nodded- face still flushed.

“Y-Yeah. ‘s fine.” Suna leaned his back against the counter and took the time to look around. The small kitchen in the small apartment the Twins lived in- alone. And now it was only Osamu. The thought made his throat tight and the sting behind his eyes returned. How was he supposed to tell Osamu that? His eyes fell on the cups Osamu had already taken out of the cupboard- two of course, one for Osamu and one for Atsumu. His eyes lingered on the fox- shaped cups with their initials on them. For a moment it almost felt like Atsumu was still here- coming down the stairs every minute. The small hope flickered inside Suna, even though he knew that it was in vain. He didn’t notice the single tear sliding down his cheek until Osamu’s soft fingers brushed against his cheek- so soft and careful it surprised Suna. Something inside him flickered, his heart skipped a beat and his breathing stopped for a second. Time seemed to stop and Suna met Osamu’s gaze- so strangely familiar like Atsumu’s and yet so heartbreakingly different. He looked at him with soft eyes- a look Suna hadn’t seen on him for a while, but of course Osamu had always worried more about others than he let on. Suna liked that about him. Deliberately Suna took in every detail, every similarity with Atsumu and every difference. As he was to reach out to Osamu, the beeping of the rice cooker surprised them both and they sprang apart.

Suna shook his head over himself, wondering what the hell he was doing here. And why was his heart beating like that? He pushed the thought aside, there were more important things to do now.

“Samu, I’m goin’ upstairs fer a moment.”

Taking two steps at once, Suna reached Atsumu’s door in no time. He hesitated before entering- afraid what was waiting inside. Taking a deep breath, he pushed the handle down and walked into Atsumu’s bedroom- or more what has been Atsumu’s bedroom. It was almost empty. The shock over the missing things hit him more than he expected- he clutched his shirt and trudged into the room. He noticed the bed, standing in one corner of the room, beside it Atsumu’s desk- a few schoolbooks sprawled across it. Almost all of Atsumu’s things were gone- the books of old English authors Atsumu demanded were worth everything vanished with him. Standing in the emptiness of the room, Suna didn’t notice Osamu coming up the stairs. He should have stopped him, should have prevent him from this. But it was too late. Suna knew, when he heard the gasp behind him, it was too late. He turned around and found Osamu in the doorway- eyes wide in terror, looking around his brothers room- taking in the gap Atsumu left behind.

“No. No. No. That’s not true. He wouldn’t- Why?”

Suna watched as Osamu’s feet gave in and he collapsed to the ground, witnessed as the younger Twin broke down in tears- his sobs and cries so painful to hear. Although he felt his own pain, Suna couldn’t leave Osamu like this. They shared the same feelings in this matter, only Suna had known this was coming. Slowly he fell to his knees in front of Osamu and pulled him closer, feeling- just for a moment- that maybe neither of them had to be alone. The warmth of Osamu made his skin prickle and he felt the urge to stay with him- to protect him. They stayed in each other’s embrace for a while- in the doorway, silent together, grieving the space Atsumu was supposed to live in.

“It’s okay. Yer not alone. I’m here.”

The trembling hands of Osamu slung around him, clutched his shirt and Osamu drew himself closer, trying desperately to hold onto something.

“Why? Why is he gone? This is my fault.”

Osamu’s cries grew louder, his sobs painful in Suna’s chest. The voice of the younger twin sounded so broken.

“No. It was his own decision. It’s not yer fault, Samu.”

He knew he said too much the moment Osamu stiffenend in his arms, then he pushed Suna at arm’s length away.

“Ya knew?” The fire in his eyes scared Suna a bit. He knew he had to explain everything to Osamu now. But not here, not like this, so he stood up and offered his hand to Osamu.
“Let’s talk downstairs.” With one hand Osamu wished away his tears and took the Suna’s. Together- still with their hands intertwined- they made their way downstairs.

Like usual, Osamu started making tea, as soon as they entered the kitchen. The simple task of boiling water and brewing tea grounded him- as Atsumu had told Suna a while ago. He had said that Osamu always felt safe in a kitchen- it was like home to him. Only now, as he watched him, did Suna fully understand what Atsumu had meant. The younger Twin looked like he belonged here in this kitchen, with its clean counter and the bright windows. Even his movements became smoother, like Osamu finally relaxed a bit. Suna had never noticed him much, not with Atsumu by his side, so he wouldn’t miss this chance to observe Osamu a bit.
Suna noticed that, like Atsumu, Osamu was a bit smaller than he, that they had the same build- long legs, slim waist and a broad back. Their build was almost identical, but Suna spotted all the small differences too. Atsumu’s thighs for example were something else entirely, Osamu’s were smaller- well he didn’t need them to do this freaky low sets after all. Suna shook his head at the memory of this one game against Karasuno. When he looked at Osamu again, he caught sight of his long slim fingers, very skilled he should say. After all Osamu’s cooking was heavenly- his hands working fast and almost on its own.
His mind drifted away as he watched Osamu’s hands and remembered what they felt like on his skin. Subconsciously Suna touched his cheek, where Osamu had brushed the tears aside. For a moment, he wished he could turn back time to this moment or maybe he just wished for this feeling again. Skin on skin. Osamu’s fingers on his skin.

What a thought! Frantically Suna tried to shake the thought away and concentrated on the conversation ahead of him. He wondered how much he should tell Osamu. Only the necessary for the moment, he decided.

A cup landed in front of him, the steam of the tea hitting his nostrils at once. Peppermint- his favourite, as well as Atsumu’s. The corner of his lips turned upwards into s soft little smile and when Suna looked up into Osamu’s face he was stunned to see the other man smiling too.

“Yeah, I know that’s yer favourite. Tsumu wouldn’t shut up about ya liking the same tea.” When Osamu noticed what he had said, Suna saw his smile fell and his eyes darkened with unspoken words. For a short moment he hesitated, then took Osamu’s trembling hand in his. The warmth of him felt good and for a moment Suna believed that he could manage talking about yesterday’s events.

“Ya know, Samu. Atsumu was with me last night. He only wanted to visit- to say goodbye.” The lump in his throat returned at the memory of Atsumu on his doorstep- the joy about seeing him and the pain when he left. But this wasn’t about him, he needed to tell Osamu about it. He deserved it.

“Said he’s leaving today and that he wanted ta see me one last time. Told me that he would play in Osaka.”

Osamu’s hand in his started trembling again, and Suna could only hold onto it more- his eyes fixed on the table. He heard Osamu’s crying, the sniffs and the rustling of his shirt, when he brushed the tears aside.

“Do ya- do ya know why he didn’t tell me?”

No, Suna didn’t know exactly why, but he could guess. Maybe it was because of the fight, of the things he didn’t tell Suna about. Maybe he simply couldn’t tell Osamu goodbye. Either way, Suna couldn’t say any of this to Osamu at the moment.

“No, no he didn’t.”

Like this they sat in silence, seeking comfort in each other’s presence. Outside the window in the blue sky, the sun shone bright like to tell them, that the path ahead was filled with light, even if it was hard to see now.

Graduation ceremony came and went, everybody asked about Atsumu but neither Osamu nor Suna were ready to talk about it. So they just ignored everyone and stayed close to each other. Suna noticed that Osamu stood closer to him that before, that he was looking for him, when someone wanted to talk to him. He guessed, Osamu just felt the mutual pain and wanted to be with someone who understood him. There couldn’t be something else. But he found his eyes drawn to the younger twin, always eyeing him up and down- observe him to intervene immediately, if someone went too far with the questions.
They hadn’t heard from Atsumu- neither Suna nor Osamu- since that day. And soon they would go their own ways too, but before they got a few weeks of time for themselves.
Like on accident Suna met up with Osamu on a regular basis, watching TV at his or eating at Osamu’s. Suna caught sight of the bags under Osamu’s eyes- probably because he wasn’t sleeping much, since Atsumu left. One evening it was so bad, that Osamu almost fell asleep while cooking. That was the breaking point for Suna. He walked over and grabbed Osamus hands, pulled him out of the kitchen and upstairs into Osamu’s bedroom. In front of his bed Suna stopped and turned around to meet the grey eyes of his best friend’s brother.
“This has to stop, Samu. Look at ya. Yer not even awake now. Lay down and get some sleep. I’ll wait fer ya downstairs.” Suna pushed Osamu to the bed, but the latter clung to his shirt.

“I can’t. When I close ma eyes, I see him. Then I cry and can’t fall back ta sleep.”

The confession hit Suna harder than he expected, he saw how much Osamu was hurting upon Atsumu’s absence, but not to this extend. So, he sighed and took Osamu’s hand again.

“I’ll lay down with ya, okay? Stay with ya, till ya wake up again.” Osamu’s beautiful eyes darted to him, widened in shock but glinting with something Suna was afraid to name.

Together they walked to the bed and lay down. It was awkward for Suna to lie next to Osamu. His heartbeat sped up and he felt his skin prickle where Osamu was touching him. In an attempt to ease his muscles, Suna turned to his side only to look into the face of Osamu, softly sleeping beside him. God, he must be so tired to fall asleep immediately, Suna thought.
Carefully, Suna reached out his hand and softly brushed the hair out of Osamu’s face- he looked so peaceful like this. But the haunted look would take more than a good night’s rest to disappear. He needed his brother, of that Suna was sure. Just the two of them were too stubborn to see it. His fingers caressed the soft skin of Osamu’s face, like it was something precious he needed to protect.
“Ya should go and bring him back, ya know.” The whispered words couldn’t reach Osamu and Suna knew he wouldn’t listen to them anyway. He had asked Osamu to go and find Atsumu, but he just shook his head and answered, that if Atsumu wanted to get away so badly, he should just stay there and rot. Suna knew Osamu didn’t really mean that, but since then, he didn’t push the other. He would just be there for him, to ease the pain when it became unbearable. And maybe, Suna enjoyed being with Osamu- learning new things about him and seeing him in a different light.

His eyelids became heavier, his mind foggy. With the last strength before sleep he pulled Osamu into his arms- feeling his warm skin on his own. He heard Osamu exhale, the shaky breath easing into something softer, almost calm and felt his hand reaching for his own. Yeah, he thought, this felt good, this felt right- like he was exactly where he was meant to be. He hadn’t known he could feel more at home with someone else than Atsumu. Maybe Atsumu had known all along. Intuitively Suna drew closer to Osamu and pressed a soft, featherlight kiss to his forehead. A gentle warmth blossomed inside him before his eyes closed.

“Hey, Rin?” Osamu’s voice- low and soft- caught Suna’s attention immediately. He liked how his first name sounded from Osamu’s lips. A soft smile played on his face and he felt his heart skip a beat.
The sun shone bright from the sky into the room, where the two of them were sprawled on the floor.
“Yeah, Samu? What’s up?” Suna knew his voice was a bit horse from the nap he just took on Osamu’s carpet, but even to him the sound that came out of his mouth was kind of strange.
“When are ya gonna move to Shizuoka?” The hidden tone in Osamu’s sentence made Suna cautious, he knew what the other really wanted to ask; When are you gonna leave me too.
Suna sat up and watched Osamu carefully. He sat beside him eyes glued to his phone- clearly searching something. Curious Suna crawled closer and leaned his chin on the other’s shoulder, taking in the scent of Osamu- soap and rice, so unique Osamu. It felt like home to him now, eased his mind and soul. He lost himself in Osamu’s scent that he almost forgot to answer the question. Only when Osamu nudged him with his shoulder did Suna remember it.
“Training’s about to start in three weeks. I’m movin’ in two. Why?” Suna observed Osamu closely, saw him playing with his hands- a nervous tick Osamu had. Clearly that wasn’t all he wanted to ask Suna.
“Spill it, Samu. What’s goin’ on in that pretty little head of yers?” When Suna noticed Osamu’s flushed face, he realized what he said. His face grew a beautiful shade of pink and he hold his hand in front of it to cover himself. In the following silence Suna felt his heartbeat sped up, afraid Osamu might hear it. Checking on Osamu, Suna looked back at him, only to find his own face too close to Osamu’s. For a moment neither of them said anything, then Osamu pulled back and cleared his throat.
“Y-Ya will live in the dorms, right?” Still not able to understand what Osamu was hinting at, Suna could only nod his head.
“I got into culinary school near yer dorms. I’m thinkin’ about accepting the offer, if ya don’t mind me near ya?”

Suna thought he didn’t hear that right, for a moment he could just stare at the other man. Something in his heart cracked and a soft warmth rushed through him. His heart sped up incredulously. He should have noticed this sooner- that he wanted Osamu near him. Seeing Osamu in front of him, the thought of for ever crossed his mind. He wanted this, this man forever. Wanted to share everything with him, touch him, kiss him. God, how could he not see it? Had Atsumu known all along that Suna felt this way?
Osamu looked at him with a hopeful smile, but when Suna didn’t say anything it faltered- replaced by sadness.
“Well if ya don’t like me goin’ there-“

Osamu stopped midsentence, because Suna had reached for his face- caressing it softly.  Suna took in every detail of Osamu’s face and imagined their life together- his heart felt so full and warm and right. It felt right- like everything was in place now. First Suna saw irritation in Osamu’s eyes, then hope and then he could name the look he was afraid to call out before- longing, maybe love. Suna’s breath caught in his throat, his racing heartbeat flooded his mind. In a fleeting moment of clarity, he closed the distance. His lips brushing softly against Osamu’s. Only a soft touch at first, then the heat rushed through him and he cupped Osamu’s face with both hands- deepening the kiss. On the side of his mind he registered that Osamu had clutched his shirt, pulled him closer. His mind was full of Osamu’s scent, his soft sighs making him dizzy. Suna thought that Osamu tasted like home- like everything he ever wanted.

Breathless they parted- foreheads leaning together, hands entwined. Panting, they didn’t open their eyes- savouring the silence charged with everything unspoken. Suna knew he couldn’t let Osamu go now- not ever, so he whispered: “Samu, I- Come with me. Please.” Feeling Osamu’s nod against his head, he closed the short distance and kissed him again- softer, longer this time.
Suna was certain, that he would never let go of Osamu. But in the back of his mind, his best friend’s presence still lingered. And he knew for sure that Osamu felt the same. What they had now came at the cost of losing a friend, a brother.

Could they be happy without Atsumu in their lives?