Work Text:
The alarm clock flashed 11:58 pm as another minute ticked by. Kageyama couldn’t help but hold his breath in anticipation. In two minutes, he would be sixteen. In two minutes, his life would ultimately change. In two minutes, he would hopefully know the identity of his soulmate. Kageyama ran his hand over the inside of his wrist. Soon the blank skin would display his soulmate’s name. Of course, that was IF his soulmate was older than him. Kageyama knew that a soulmate’s name would only appear after the youngest soulmate turned sixteen. Meaning that if his soulmate happened to be younger than him, no name would show, and Kageyama would be forced to wait 一 for how long was anyone's guess. Kageyama sincerely hoped he didn’t have to wait longer than tonight though. He wasn’t the most patient person and it already felt like he had been waiting forever, especially with all the other Karasuno members knowing who their fated soulmates were. To put it simply he was tired of feeling like the only one left out.
Kageyama would be lying if he said he didn’t feel a twinge of jealousy every time one of his teammates made lovey-dovey eyes at their partner or received heartfelt texts implying weekend dates. Honestly, it felt like Kageyama couldn’t catch a break. Everywhere he went he was met with another couple; Tanaka making another pass at Kiyoko during practice, Nishinoya feeling up Asahi’s biceps every time the spiker scored (which was often), Hinata and Yachi blushing like idiots at whatever message Kenma sent them, Tsukishima scowling at the roses Kuroo sent him during practice (although he was always careful when placing the flowers in his locker), Yamaguchi and Ennoshita announcing their plans to go see the latest horror movie, Narita and Kinoshita always walking to class hand in hand, and Suga throwing Daichi reassuring and supportive smiles anytime their leader had to put someone in their place. Kageyama was the only one left out, the only one without his soulmate and it was eating him up inside.
Kageyama could handle it if his soulmate didn’t love volleyball or if they didn't want to hang out on weekends. Kageyama would be understanding if they never wanted to watch one of his games or discuss the stats of pro players and who they believed was going to be drafted in the upcoming volleyball season. Kageyama would willingly give up his love for curry and pork buns if it somehow made his soulmate happy, anything as long as it meant he no longer had to be lonely. Another minute went by, and Kageyama felt the urge to vomit. He hoped his soulmate liked him. Even if they didn’t like him romantically, Kageyama hoped they would at least tolerate him enough to send him the occasional text message and allow him to continue playing volleyball. He knew deep down that he should have higher standards, and expect more from the person who was supposed to love and care for him but… he doesn’t. Even if that person had to be in Kagayama life due to the force of a soul bond he would take that as a win, because at least he had someone.
A burning sensation erupted on his wrist and Kagayama clamped his eyes shut, letting out a pained hiss. His eyes flickered briefly to his alarm, and it alerted him it was indeed 12:00. The time had finally come. The pain was overwhelming, and it felt as if someone had taken a hot iron to his skin and was branding him. This was what his teammates were warning him about, the burning, the pain. All of it signifying that his soulmate’s name was being slowly etched into his skin. The pain subsided to a dull throb and Kageyama took a steadying breath before readying himself. His palms were clammy, and his stomach felt like it was in his throat. Cautiously the setter peeked open his eyes. It took only a second for the words to compute and for his brain to connect the dots but when they did the setter blanched. There written on the inside of his wrist in cursive font read Tsukishima Kei and Kuroo Tetsuro.
It couldn’t be! Two soulmates were rare but not unheard of and if the circumstances were different Kageyama would have been overjoyed if not downright ecstatic at the possibility of having two soulmates. Heck, even the shrimp Hinata had Yachi and Kenma. But this was Tsukishima. The same Tsukishima who found joy in reminding the setter of his countless flaws. The same Tsukishima that made snarky, off-the-cuff remarks about everyone and everything. The same Tsukishima that hated his guts.
Then there was Kuroo. Kuroo, who was instantly attracted to Tsukishima during their first volleyball match. Kuroo, who immediately dropped everything to travel up to Miyagi after Tsukishima got his mark. Kuroo, who was so obviously in love with Tsukishima that he wouldn’t even spare Kageyama a second thought before rejecting him in favor of the younger blocker. Kageyama felt numb as he traced the two names on his wrist. How could fate be so cruel as to give him two soulmates who wouldn’t want anything to do with him? It was just his luck, wasn’t it? Karma maybe?
He wanted to cry, to scream to the universe that he’s changed. That he was no longer that hot-headed little boy who selflessly thought only of his own needs. Pleading that he did deserve a second chance. A ping sounded and Kageyama glanced in the direction of his phone. He was almost startled to see a text from Tsukishima.
I know you're up. We need to talk.
The text message was brief and to the point, and it made the setter recoil in fear. So, this was it. Not even a minute in and he was already going to get rejected by his soulmates. This really was too much. The sound of his phone ringing echoed around the setter’s empty room and the contact name Tiredshima was displayed on his screen like a bad omen. He couldn’t do this. Not now. Not while it all was still so fresh in his mind. Couldn’t Tsukishima allow him one day to pretend he had soulmates who loved him before ripping off the band-aid? It was all too overwhelming for the newly turned sixteen-year-old and he let the call go to voicemail. Maybe the blonde would take the hint and drop it. But Kageyama’s small hope was instantly smashed as five seconds after the call another message popped up.
Pick up the phone King. Don’t ignore me.
Once again, his phone rang, and the setter watched it go to voicemail. What could he say? He was a coward who didn’t want to face the truth… not yet anyway. The phone chimed for a third time.
Really King? You’re ignoring my calls? Hiding away won’t change the fact my name is on your wrist so stop being a coward and pick up the damn phone.
Like clockwork, the phone rang before going to voicemail.
I swear Kageyama if you don’t answer your phone, I WILL track you down. I’m NOT playing around.
Kageyama had the displeasure of seeing many sides of Tsukishima over the course of their… rivalry? Enemy-ship? Either way, he had seen annoyed Tsukishima and at-his-wits-end Tsukishima, but this appeared to be a new character unlocking for the blonde; I-will-murder-you-in-cold-blood-if-you-don’t-stop-messing-around Tsukishima. And to be completely honest Kageyama wasn’t too happy with this sudden development so the setter made the snap decision to simply just turn off his phone. He couldn’t respond to Tsukishima if the calls and messages weren’t coming through, right?
With a heavy sigh, Karasuno’s youngest flopped back in bed, closing his eyes. He was too tired to think and too scared to face anyone from his teammates. He figured by now Tsukishima had gotten in contact with Kuroo, most likely discussing the nuisance that was Kageyama and probably devising a plan on how to get rid of him. And if Kuroo knew then Kenma surely knew, and if Kenma knew then Hinata and Yachi probably knew too, and Tsukishima probably filled in Yamaguchi who no doubt told his soulmate who then informed the rest of the second years, and if the second years knew then the third years would definitely become aware of it either before or during morning practice, and this is just to say that Kageyama couldn’t deal with any of this right now. He couldn’t bear to watch their faces twist in pity and sympathy, knowing as well as he did that he didn’t stand a chance at becoming someone’s soulmate. And if Kageyama was truly truthful with himself, he had suspected that his teammates were already whispering about his potential soul mark prior to his birthday. No doubt casting judgment on his ability to be a good soulmate, especially with his lack of communication and quick-tempered, volleyball-obsessed personality. A few of them probably voiced concerns for his soulmate, wondering who would be so unlucky to end up with someone like him. Kageyama hated thinking of his team like this, knew deep down that they were good people… but… if they did think those things, they wouldn’t be wrong.
No! He wasn’t going to think about his soulmates, or his teammates, or the fact that in six hours he would have to get up for morning practice. None of it. He just needed some sleep and maybe amnesia then he would wake up and everything would be fine. At least that’s what the setter told himself.
_ _ _
When Kageyama’s alarm clock went off, he smashed his hand down harder than necessary. To say he slept would be a blatant lie. His thoughts kept on running in circles making him dizzy and frustrated. Around one he had had a hissy fit and threw all his pillows and blankets across the room, wildly leaping from plush mound to plush mound cursing and kicking. An hour later, he had hauled himself and his bedding back onto his mattress, huddling underneath the mass of fabric to sob his heart out. At three, Kageyama was vehemently cursing out everyone who had ever wronged him from his test scores to the orange cat next door who refused to let the setter pet her (although he did give a sincere, silent apology to said cat after he calmed down). Four O’clock signified a much-needed snack break as Kageyama mournfully downed a pint of ice cream. When five rolled around Kageyama had made his way back to his room and finished his emotional rollercoaster off by blasting sad songs through his earbuds and once again sobbing into his pillow. Now at six, the setter was both physically and mentally exhausted and wanted nothing more than to slink under his sheets and hibernate until the inter-high tournament. He had written off morning practice around three and the rest of the school day around five opting to fake a deadly disease to his parents if they happened to ask.
Crawling out of bed, Kageyama decided to face the day with another pint of ice cream and reruns of his favorite volleyball plays. Only the best for his broken heart. As he made his way downstairs he couldn’t help but note how his footsteps echoed loudly throughout the (practically) deserted household. It wasn’t anything new but somehow it stung a little bit more today. As if the sound of his own footsteps taunted him. Teased him that nobody cared enough to stay, that he would be forever trapped within a world of solitude and loneliness. Why wouldn’t you be? The sounds mocked. Your parents have better things to do with their time than to cater to your whims, Miwa left the first chance she got, even your grandfather couldn’t stand the burden of looking after you and made his escape through death. All of this and we haven’t even included all your friendship failures. What a disappointing life you lead Kageyama Tobio.
Kageyama looked around his bare house, devoid of love and life (aside from himself) and he couldn’t help but let out a dejected sigh. When was the last time he heard from his parents? Three-four months? Something like that anyway. They had informed him that their business trip had been extended by six weeks and that instead of coming back to Japan afterward, they would be heading to Angola for their next project. That’s not to mention the last time he physically saw his parents. It had probably been a year and a half by now, at the very least, and even then, it was only for a day or two between jobs and flights. At times he wondered if his parents thought of this place as more of a convenient hotel stay rather than a home. As for his sister, Kageyama hadn’t seen her since last Christmas when she had come up with her soulmate to spend the holidays with him. He didn’t blame her though, she had her life in Tokyo now and it was inconvenient to constantly be coming up to see him. Miwa was eight years older than Kageyama, and he knew growing up a lot of his parents' responsibilities fell on her. His sister was forced to play parent when his parents weren’t home, which was often. Even with his grandpa’s help Miwa still took on the brunt of raising Tobio and he couldn’t blame her for leaving the second she turned eighteen. Tobio wasn’t her burden to carry.
That only left his grandpa, and even at ten, Kageyama knew his grandpa wasn’t in the best of health. The constant flurry of being in and out of hospitals, the tests, needles, medication. Kageyama had to watch as his grandpa got sicker and sicker, and his hospital stays got longer and longer before eventually their roles were reversed and Kageyama became the full-time caregiver of his grandfather. His grandfather fought for three long years before passing away in Kageyama’s second year of junior high. And from his death, shattered Kageyama’s last hope of having someone to call his own. Someone who would stay and fight off the throws of loneliness… someone who would love him. His parents had flown in for the funeral, staying for the ceremony and legalities that come with a loved one’s passing before flying out the next day. Miwa had stayed a little bit longer, allowing the child to slowly come to terms with the news, but she too became restless and Kageyama took note of the hatred and building rage she had towards the house; the pictures on the walls (the ones displaying their parents), their mother’s antic china, their father’s random knick-knacks, everything. Why did she have to be the one to step up when Tobio wasn’t even her child? And a week after the funeral, at thirteen years old, the setter was truly and utterly alone, confined to an empty house barren of human life aside from his own conscience.
It wasn’t too bad at first as his parents had made an arrangement with the local social services that a worker would check up on Kageyama weekly but as he got older those weekly visits fizzled to two then a month until they simply stopped checking in. Don’t get it wrong they still occasionally phoned Kageyama to inquire about his wellbeing and whether he was still alive, but that was the extent of their interaction with the boy. The setter didn’t mind though, he felt relieved at not having the constant eyes on him, the invasive questions, and the judgment and scrutiny as they over-analyzed his words and actions. Yes, he didn’t like being alone, but it was better than someone coming into his life and expressing false empathy for a situation they weren’t willing to fix. Besides, his parents did transfer him a sizable living allowance each month for utilities, food, and other living expenses. So, Kageyama guessed it wasn’t all bad.
Opening up his laptop Kageyama let his mind go numb as he watched video after video of various volleyball games. He had contacted his school earlier to inform them of his absence but that was mainly to deter the social workers from showing up at his door. The hours seemed to pass by relatively fast with Kageyama making the consecutive decision of not leaving the couch. Tomorrow he would face the world but today was about wallowing in self-pity. Before he realized it the time was already five and the setter’s belly rumbled in hunger. He was deciding between takeout or making the short trip to the convenience store when a series of knocks resounded from his front door. Jeez, those social workers couldn’t give him a break. They were MIA for the majority of three years but phone in sick for one day and suddenly they’re breathing down your neck. Another round of knocking ensued after a brief pause and the setter groaned in displeasure.
“One minute!” He called, briefly looking himself over in the entryway mirror. To put it simply he looked like hell. The first year had dark circles around his eyes indicating lack of sleep, his raven hair was a mess and sticking out in random directions, and he had an air of defeat and sadness surrounding him. Well, at least it would be easy to claim sickness. Running a hand through his wild locks Kageyama wretch open the door and instantly froze. It wasn’t a random social worker at the door like he’d expected. Instead, towering over him were the two people he absolutely didn’t want to see, Tsukishima and Kuroo. Tsukishima looked downright menacing as he stared down his nose at the other first year while Kuroo looked between a mixture of frustrated, annoyed, and concerned.
“King一” Kageyama slammed the door in their face. This couldn’t be happening. Why were they here? How did they get his address? So many questions swirled inside the setter’s head. It was too soon. He wasn’t ready to face the truth, to be rejected once again by people who were supposed to love him. Behind him the knocking started up, becoming more ferocious.
“King! Slamming the door is not a good way to deal with your issues! Stop acting cowardly and hiding from us!” Tsukishima loudly hissed and the younger recoiled from the bitterness in his tone.
“Kageyama we only want to talk so could you please open the door.” Kuroo inquired, attempting to remain the level-headed one in this situation although the exhaustion was evident in his voice. Like Tsukishima and Kageyama, Kuroo had been up since twelve. Waking up with the feeling that your wrist was being seared by a branding iron was never a nice way to start one’s morning. He had been initially confused before he spotted the new name scrawled across his skin. He was shocked sure but ultimately overjoyed until Tsukishima phoned in a panic about not being able to get in contact with Karasuno’s first-year setter. From there his day was a blur of train stations, comforting calls to the rapidly deteriorating blonde, and trying but failing to get in contact with their youngest soulmate. When Kuroo eventually arrived at Karasuno both Tsukishima and the rest of the crows were in a worried frenzy trying to devise a plan to find Kageyama. It was, however, by some unknown miracle that some of Kageyama’s classmates happened to be walking by the gym discussing dropping off homework for the setter and it took everything in Kuroo not to jump on the two girls. Eventually after some persuading (threatening) on Tsukishima’s part, the girls surrendered the notes and Kageyama’s address. Both boys didn’t think twice before racing off in search of their new soulmate.
Kageyama’s heart beat rapidly in his chest as the crushing weight of reality reared its ugly head. He could do this, he could do this. He’s been through worse and survived, right? Putting on a facade of calm bravery Kageyama steeled himself for what was to come. He would have to deal with this eventually. Readying his nerves, the setter once again opened the door and took in the sight of his soulmates. It would have almost been humorous how they sized one another up, shooting each other tired, weary glances, if only the circumstances were better. Kageyama gestured for them to come inside. It was as if the fire igniting their anger and anxiety had gone out, they were all too drained from the day to remain mad. The trio stood awkwardly in the entryway before Kuroo broke the silence.
“Thanks,” he simply said. It was an acknowledgment of sorts, a peace offering. Letting both younger boys know that they were here to clear the air not to argue.
“Would you like something to drink?” The setter inquired softly, eyes not quite reaching the older pair.
“Tea.” Came Tsukishima’s curt response before tacking on. “Please. If you have some.” Kageyama bit his lip nervously and nodded his head before wandering off in what Kuroo suspected was the direction of the kitchen. Both men trailed closely behind the raven-haired boy, not fully trusting he wouldn’t attempt to run away.
“So,” Kageyama attempted to break the awkward silence, “Why are you here?”
“You’re joking right?” Tsukishima snarked before he could catch himself. This wouldn’t go well if he couldn’t contain his sarcasm. “You weren’t answering your phone.”
“I turned it off.” Screw it. Tsukishima wasn’t a goddamn Saint.
“Why yes King we figured you’d turned off your precious phone when we couldn’t get in contact with you. Thanks for solving the biggest mystery of the century. That’s why we’re here, Your Highness because you’re apparently incapable of basic communication.”
“Well sorry if me needing time to process this situation inconvenienced you Stingyshima. Not everything’s about you!” The younger setter shot back, now openly glaring daggers at the blonde.
“Guys…” Kuroo tried to intervene only to be cut off.
“Wow, King. Didn’t know His Royal Highness needed a whole day to process anything as that would require you to actually have functioning brain cells. My bad for expecting a lowly commoner such as myself to expect a bit of communication. It’s clear to see that your world revolves around nobody but yourself.”
“Oh spare me your attitude.” Scoffed Kageyama. “Maybe if you had any consideration for other people’s feelings instead of acting like you know everything all of the time maybe we wouldn’t be in this situation in the first place. So kindly screw off!”
“Okay, how about we all calm down.” The third year sputtered, once again trying to reason with the squabbling duo. He normally wasn’t this passive but someone had to be the pillar of logic in this mess.
“Don’t worry about me princess, I’ll remember to send a formal request to your royal court the next time I wish to speak to you. Terribly sorry if my reaching out disturbed your day off.” Kageyama felt his face heat up at Tsukishima’s words and he clenched his fists in a mixture of embarrassment and anger.
“Shut up Tsukishima! I’m not a princess. What’s up with that name anyways?” The setter huffed out, annoyed by the blonde’s indignant smirk. “Just stop with your ridiculous name calling, it’s so childish.”
“Childish?” Tsukishima narrowed his eyes. “That’s rich, coming from the one throwing the tantrum. But hey if our sensitive princess is looking for ‘maturity’ let's look back at how well you’ve handled the situation so far? Hmm? Maybe our princess’ new title should be Drama Queen instead.”
“Alright that’s enough Tsukki, Kage一”
“Me, a Drama Queen? Have you looked in the mirror recently Stingyshima? The only one causing drama is you and your insistence on using infuriating nicknames!”
“Aww princess knows what infuriating means.” And with Tsukishima’s final comment, Kuroo felt his last drop of patience run out.
“Alright, how about both of you save the theatrics for court? Tsukishima, Kageyama, take a breather. There’s no need to turn our civil,” Kuroo shot the pair a ‘mess around and find out’ look, “talk into a royal showdown. So let’s all take a minute to calm down because there’s a better way to resolve our problems than turning it into some Shakespearean drama.” If Kageyama was honest he had forgotten Kuroo was there, too absorbed in hurling insults at Tsukishima to notice the Nekoma captain. He was almost mortified. He deeply respected the third year. Kuroo was a skilled blocker with both talent and experience on his side and Kageyama would be lying if he said he didn’t feel a little envious of Kuroo’s capabilities on the court.
“...Sorry,” the youngest mumbled, head bowed and eyes downcast. It seemed that the pesky blush still hadn’t dimmed after Tsukishima’s princess comments.
“That’s a good start, Tsukki?” Kuroo turned to face the taller boy.
“Absolutely not.” Tsukishima scowled. “I’m not apologizing just because our delicate princess here can’t handle a few jabs. He ought to toughen up if he wants to lead his court in the inter-high tournaments.”
“Tsukki.”
“Alright, fine.” The blonde huffed. “Kageyama, I apologize if my princess comments damaged your dainty ego, I guess even kings get sensitive. In the future, I will be sure to address you by more fitting titles.” He turned to Kuroo. “Happy now?” Kuroo was about to retort that it was by no means good when Kageyama cut him off.
“You're such an ass.” For once Tsukishima paused. The look on the younger boy's face resembled someone who was trying (but ultimately failing) not to cry. Kageyama looked… devastated. His eyes were wide and looking everywhere but at his two soulmates and his bottom lip was sucked into his mouth in a sore attempt to cover any sounds that might escape if he wasn’t careful. “Was it really so wrong to ask for one day?” He whispered aloud. “Just until my birthday passed so it wouldn’t be a constant reminder of the one day I hoped for happiness, only to be met with rejection.”
“Kageyama… what?” Kuroo felt like he missed something important and was beyond confused.
“I just needed a little time to come to terms with reality. I didn’t want the sting of disappointment to overshadow ‘my’ day.”
“My day? What? Why are you suddenly speaking in riddles, King?” Tsukishima exclaimed, arms shooting up in disbelief. “I’m not in the mood for vague hints and unexplained emotional baggage.”
“Oh drop the act Tsukishima!” The setter shouted, his frustration reaching a new peak. This wasn’t funny! Their games weren’t funny and he didn’t appreciate them playing dumb. “You know exactly what I’m talking about so quit pretending! We both know why you’re here!”
“Whoa, calm down King. I can promise you neither Kuroo nor I have any idea of what you’re talking about. If something’s bothering you, just spit it out. I’m not a mind reader so don’t subject me to your mood swings.”
“Tsukki’s right Kageyama, We’re both lost. We came here because we couldn’t get a hold of you and wanted to make sure everything was okay. So if there’s a problem please let us know.”
Kageyama didn’t know whether to laugh or cry. Why were they being so cruel? Why couldn’t they just get it over with and leave him alone instead of playing games with his head? They didn’t care about him. Tsukishima couldn’t stand him and Kuroo wouldn’t choose poor, pathetic, lonely Tobio over his “Tsukki.” With a broken sob, Kageyama slowly sank to the kitchen floor. He was too exhausted from all the pent-up emotions to worry about how pathetic he must look to the older boys. Kuroo and Tsukishima could only watch in shock and trepidation as their youngest soulmate broke down in front of them. It was only when Kageyama placed his head into his knees, effectively blocking his face from view, that the blockers snapped out of their stupor. Kuroo’s usual calm, carefree demeanor shifted to one of serious concern. Slowly approaching the crying setter, Kuroo dropped to his knees in front of the boy.
“Hey, Kageyama. Please… talk to us. This isn’t like you. Where’s that kid from training camp who was always in a yelling match with Shrimpy? Seriously though, you’re starting to worry us.” Even Tsukishima dropped his sarcastic composer as true panic started to set in. This was the first time he had seen Kageyama cry. He took a hesitant step forward, then another, and another, until he was standing over his soulmates like a protective forcefield. He didn’t know what to do or say. He was never good at comforting people, especially a vulnerable Kageyama. A muffled sound came from Kageyama.
“What was that?” Kuroo gently inquired, urging the younger to speak up. Sniffling Kageyama raised his head.
“Aren’t you going to do it already?” He whispered, a few tears sliding down his reddened cheeks.
“Do what, sweetheart?” Kuroo probed, approaching Kageyama as he would with Kenma if he didn’t have a good sleep, with care and caution.
“Reject me.”
The room went still and both the blockers sucked in a breath. Why did it feel like they were suddenly drenched in ice water? Kageyama’s actions, and his words, slowly started to click into place and the image was horrifying. Their setter hadn’t been ignoring them out of spite or ill will, he had been ignoring them out of fear. Fear that Kuroo and Tsukishima would reject him. That was why he turned off his phone and called in sick. Why he was alarmed when the pair randomly appeared at his front door and got into a heated argument with the blonde blocker. Kageyama believed his soulmates had devised a plan to track him down on his birthday so they could reject him. No wonder the raven-haired boy was speaking in riddles, their setter was convinced that they were toying with him.
“You’re such an idiot, King,” Tsukishima murmured, dropping to the floor and pulling the youngest in for a hug.
“Wha一” The dumb-struck look on Kageyama’s face would have made Kuroo laugh if he wasn’t so upset.
“Seriously,” Kuroo nodded his head, fully agreeing with Tsukishima on the matter. “What would make you think we would reject you? We’re soulmates, remember? So in the future could you talk to us before you let your imagination run wild.”
“But, but… you don’t like me.”
Kuroo let out a weak chuckle. “Well someone’s got his signals crossed. We wouldn’t be here if we didn’t care, Kageyama. I know we don’t know each other well but that comes with time. Besides we’re soulmates, we have all the time in the world to get to know each other.”
“But… Tsukishima?”
“What about me, Your Highness? Do you really think I’d be willingly hugging you if I disliked you? Use your brain King, I know that may be hard, but honestly, get it through your thick skull; you're not alone.”
“I… okay.” The setter agreed, letting out one last sniff before slowly wiping his teary eyes with the back of his hand. “Could I… Do you think… Would it be okay… Can I have another hug?” The request was shy and awkward, showcasing a new side of Kageyama the other two hadn’t seen before. Kuroo responded with a warm smile before engulfing Kageyama in a warm cuddle. Kageyama looked expectantly at Tsukishima.
“Really, Kageyama? Our sweet little princess needs a hug? I guess even almighty rulers need a commoner’s embrace every once in a while. Fine, come here. But make it quick before I change my mind and decide to charge you for my services.”
Kageyama felt his skin go hot once again at the use of that nickname and he quickly buried his face into the taller boy's shoulder. As for Tsukishima, although a light pink dusting spread across his neck he was more absorbed in the setter’s response to the nickname. Initially, he had thought it was just the trick of the lighting or Kageyama’s heightened state that made him go red but now…
“Oh, so our Princess secretly enjoys his royal nickname, huh? Well, aren’t you adorable. Maybe I’ll have to start using it more often so we are able to see that royal blush of yours.” Kageyama reared back from Tsukishima’s embrace only for the middle blocker’s arms to wind around his waist. Tsukishima looked all too terrifying as he smirked down at Kageyama like a cat who had caught a canary.
“You, you… you can’t call me that in public!” The raven-haired squawked. Tsukishima, still wearing a sly smirk playfully tightened his grip on Kageyama’s waist. Honest who knew that the setter would be this fun to rile up?
"Public, private, what's the difference, Princess? If you like the nickname, you'll get it whenever and wherever. I think it would be amusing watching our royal highness get all flustered in public, don’t you think?” Tsukishima teased, his voice dancing along the shell of Kageyama’s ear before deliberately pulling Kageyama closer to softly whisper. “Or if you’d prefer we could keep this our little secret, a scandalous nickname reserved for a pretty boy during our most intimate moments. Would you like that Princess?”
Kageyama slapped Tsukishima’s shoulder, attempting to get some of his composure back. “C-cut it out, Tsukishima. It’s…it’s not like that. I don't want one of your stupid nicknames, especially not in public.” The setter could feel his ears burning but he desperately tried to ignore that fact in favor of glowering at the taller boy. Kuroo watched in amusement as his two soulmates banter (flirted) with each other. He had to admit this dynamic was becoming addictively interesting the longer he watched.
“Don’t mind me.” He drawled, greeting his soulmates' gazes with a lazy smile as his eyes raked slyly over the duo. “I’m just watching the royal soap opera. By all means, keep going, I’m finding your performance endlessly entertaining. Think of me as a silent observer just enjoying the show.” The innuendo wasn’t lost on Tsukishima. Of course it wasn’t, the kid was too darn quick-witted for his own good. With a cunning smile, Tsukishima sized up his older soulmate thoughtfully.
“Well, well, Kuroo. And here I thought you enjoyed the hands-on action of dramas rather than merely sitting back and observing. Or are you just waiting for the right scene to join in on, I’m sure neither the Princess nor I would be against a surprise twist.” The older blocker’s eyes lit up in what could only be described as dangerous amusement as he slunk over to the two first years. Kageyama let out an involuntary shiver as he was sandwiched between them. He felt a mixture of shyness, awkwardness, and embarrassment as he debated how he would escape. Tsukishima still had a firm grip on his waist and the setter couldn’t move beyond either pressing himself back into Kuroo’s chest or moving forward and practically sitting in Tsukishima’s lap. The youngest tense as he felt Kuroo’s warm breath hit his neck and he could do nothing more than watch his soulmates battled it out in wits and words.
“You know me so well Tsukki.” Kurro practically purred, analyzing his blonde lover closely. He saw a flash of challenge in those golden brown eyes as Tsukishima returned his heated stare. “Hands-on action is definitely more my style.” Kageyama let out a (manly) yelp as one of Kuroo’s hands came up to rest on his hip while the other moved past him to playfully grasp Tsukishima’s chin. “As for joining in? I was just waiting for the perfect scene to sweep both you and the Princess off your feet.” Tsukishima rolled his eyes and snorted, swatting the captain’s hand away. Kageyama didn’t know how Tsukishima was able to keep his composure, he was practically melting with how hot his face felt.
“No offense babe, but you don’t look like Prince Charming. Especially with that upside-down mop, you call hair.”
“I don’t need to look like Prince Charming when I’ve got the raw charisma and rugged energy to make you swoon with just a wink and a smile. Besides, I didn’t hear you complain about my ‘disheveled’ look last week when I…”
“Alright! That’s enough!” The setter practically cried as he jumped out of his soulmates’ embrace, clamping a hand over both their mouths. “I’m hungry! I’m going out and getting some food.” And with an embarrassed scowl, Kageyama turned on his heels and made his way to the door. If those two wanted to stay that was up to them but Kageyama needed some air.
“I could eat.” He heard a shuffling of feet behind him both the heavy weight of an arm wrapped around his shoulders and pulled him to a side hug. Looking up, he was met with the leering face of Nekoma’s captain.
“So what does his Highness want for dinner?” Tsukishima mused, tapping his chin in what looked like thoughtfulness if you had never crossed paths with the snarky teen. Kageyama knew better though.
“I was just going to pick up some pork buns from the convenience store, nothing fancy.” The setter shrugged.
“Absolutely not.” Kuroo protested. “No soulmate of mine is eating lukewarm gas station food for their birthday.
“Not gas station, convenience store.” The youngest huffed.
“Same thing, pick something else. I’m buying.” Kageyama looked over at the older teen in shock.
“No, that’s okay Kuroo-san I have money.”
“Okay first off, birthday boys don’t pay for their meal. Second, you are going to pick something fancier than cheap junk food. And lastly…” Tsukishima cut off his boyfriend’s passionate rant.
“Lastly, we should probably let the King’s parents know we’re kidnapping their son.” Kageyama froze, his body going tense and a cold sweat rising from his neck. They hadn’t even hung out a full day and the complicated circumstances surrounding Kageyama's home life were already being cast in the spotlight. He knew before finding out about his soul bond with Kuroo and Tsukishima that the topic of his parents was going to have to be discussed at some point. It was only natural for soulmates to meet each other's families.
“Ah-h don’t worry about them, they're… working late.” It was a white lie and Kageyama wasn’t technically wrong. His parents were working and they were most likely working late as both his parents were married to their jobs.
“Well, when are they coming home? I would like to meet my soulmate’s parents before I head back to Tokyo.” Kuroo eyed the younger teen. Something didn’t feel quite right about the setter’s response but the older one decided to brush it off, for now.
“Ummm… I don’t know… It depends on the project they’re working on.” Again not a lie… just a slight omission of the truth. Tsukishima looked almost dumbfounded at the setter.
“Let me get this straight 一 your parents chose to work overtime on your birthday fully aware of how significant turning sixteen is to you. What did they just not expect you to find your soulmate today?”
Kageyama tried to brush off the jab directed at his parents. Why did he feel like his entire childhood was about to be unraveled and displayed for all to see? The raven-haired gave a stiff chuckle. “Honestly, they probably forgot it was my birthday.” The comment was meant to be taken as a light-hearted joke, that was what Kageyama intended, but like most things in his life, it didn’t go as planned. Both of his soulmates stopped dead in their tracks, giving Kageyama disbelieving, indignant expressions. Tsukishima was the first to speak.
“Are you serious King? Did they honestly forget? Wow, your parents are something else. I can’t believe they forgot their own son’s sixteenth birthday.” Kuroo nodded in agreement.
“I sincerely hope this was a one-time oversight on their part.” The younger looked down and bit his lip nervously. He had never been good at lying. Lying always involved planning ahead or thinking on your toes, neither of which he was good at outside of volleyball. Kageyama decided to give a nod and a small hum, hoping it would satisfy the two teens. Unfortunately, it didn’t.
“You’re a terrible liar King. Now tell us what the deal is with your parents.”
“I’m not lying, Stingyshima,” Kageyama defensively retorted. “They just… forgot, okay? It’s really not that deep. And there’s no ‘deal’ with my parents so just drop it.”
The teens walked in silence, the December chill nipping at their cheeks. It had snowed only a few days prior and the ground was a layer of powdered white. Kageyama stuffed his hands into his coat pockets and silently cursed himself for snapping at the blonde and creating this awkward tension. He hadn’t meant to, it was just that his family, namely his parents, were a sore subject and something he hadn’t divulged to anyone. Beside him, Kuroo buried his face further into his red scarf and the setter almost giggled at how ridiculous the eldest looked with just his wild black locks poking out. On his other side, Tsukishima pushed up his glasses as he blew hot air into his hands. Before Kageyama could consider the implications of his actions he reached out and took one of Tsukishima’s hands in his. Tsukishima’s hands were big, with long elegant fingers and a sizable palm, and the setter’s hand suddenly felt small. Kageyama ran his fingers gently over the blocker’s hands. They felt rough, a clear indicator of both the cold weather and volleyball practice and the younger briefly pondered whether he should pick up some lotion the next time he was at the store. Glancing up, Kageyama’s eyes met the quizzical stare of Tsukishima, and snapping back into reality he wrenched his hand away. His face flushed for what felt like the hundredth time in the past hour and he muttered a brief apology under his breath, picking up the pace in his steps to create some distance between him and the middle blocker. In his embarrassment, Kageyama missed the light dusting of pink that splashed across Tsukishima’s face.
“Well look at you, Princess. Didn’t know you were into public displays of affection. Am I that irresistible?” The blonde teased and Kageyama’s face reddened further. The setter was practically speed-walking down the sidewalk. “If you wanted to hold my hand that badly, all you had to do was ask.” Suddenly the other Karasuno teen was directly beside Kageyama, a predator smirk igniting his features. Leaning in close, Tsukishima blew a breath of hot air into Kageyama’s ear, watching in amusement as the setter squirmed. “Come on Princess, if you ask me nicely I’ll indulge in your need to show off our relationship. And while I’m feeling generous, if your answer is sweet enough I’ll even consider not tormenting you for the rest of the night, isn’t that kind of me?” Kageyama swatted the middle blocker away, directing a scowl made up from irritation and embarrassment in the other’s direction.
“You're honestly insufferable, Stingyshima. I don’t want or need your indulgence or sweet talk.”
“Ah, and the royal soap opera continues.” Kuroo drawled and Kageyama let out a small (masculine) squeak as the captain snuck up behind him. Kuroo sprawled his lengthy frame over the setter's back and circled his arms around Kageyama, pushing them into the other teen’s pockets to entwine their fingers together. Kageyama could do nothing but sputter as he was taken off guard. With their Royal Highness disarmed, Kuroo set his sights on Tsukishima. “Tsukki,” the eldest mockingly tutted, “you should be a bit more gentle with our beloved Princess here. You wouldn’t want him running away from the castle, would you?” Kageyama couldn’t do anything but helplessly watch as everything unfolded from his position as Kuroo’s human heating pad.
“I was merely offering his Highness some guidance in the art of public affection. Unlike you, I am concerned about our Princess’ royal affairs and how he can best navigate them. If that’s a treasonable offense, then I’m guilty.”
The back-and-forth bickering (flirting) carried on as the trio ventured off into the night and Kageyama sank into a comfortable lull. It appeared that his life was opening up into one of new possibilities and experiences. His once lonely existence seemed so far away as he gazed at his soulmates’ faces. Gathering up the little courage he had left, the setter made his way between the two blockers, who up until this point were still squabbling ahead of Kageyama, and interlocked his hands with one of theirs. A spark surged up his wrists and for the first time in a long time Kageyama felt at home. The setter knew it wasn’t always going to be easy or painless and he would eventually have to open up to them about his family, but he couldn’t help but feel that, regardless of the obstacles life might throw at them, they would be able to overcome them together.