Chapter Text
Hinata had been having the best week of his life. He returned home from Brazil, successfully joined the MSBY Jackerals, made a huge splash on his debut game, got together with his high school crush: Kageyama, had lots of sex with Kageyama, went viral on the internet after his debut game, had sex with Kageyama, went on to win a couple more games, reunited with his old teammates from Karasuno and had lots sex with Kageyama.
So, naturally, it all came crashing down on a Tuesday afternoon.
Hinata now found himself sitting in a cold, sterile boardroom facing the PR teams for both the MSBY Jackals and the Schweiden Adlers. The tension in the room was palpable, with both teams’ managers looking like they were about to deliver a verdict on a crime he wasn’t aware he had committed.
He sat stiffly in his chair, hands twisting and untwisting the hem of his shirt as he tried, and failed, to swallow the growing lump in his throat. Next to him, Kageyama Tobio sat like a statue—calm, collected, and seemingly bored out of his mind. Hinata couldn't decide if he was infuriated by Kageyama's unbothered demeanor or desperately envious of it.
“Stop fidgeting. It’s annoying,” Kageyama muttered under his breath, barely moving his lips.
“I can’t. I’m nervous,” Hinata hissed back, trying to keep his voice low.
“Then stop being nervous.”
“How can you just say that? We’re in a serious meeting!”
“I don’t want you getting stomach problems during this. It’s embarrassing.”
“I don’t get stomach problems anymore and you know that—”
“Ahem.”
Hinata froze mid-sentence, whipping his head around to see the Adlers’ team manager staring them down, her gaze sharp as a knife. She was young, but the fire in her eyes made Hinata feel like she could burn him alive with a look.
“We’re going to cut to the chase,” the MSBY team manager, a much older man with a no-nonsense air, said, breaking the thick silence. “Are you two in a romantic relationship or not?”
Hinata blinked rapidly, not entirely sure he had heard the question correctly. It sounded like they were asking about his love life, but that couldn’t be right. Why would they be holding an entire meeting just to ask something so... personal?
Before Hinata could fully process what was happening, Kageyama spoke.
“Yes, we are,” he said plainly as if it were the most obvious thing in the world.
The room erupted into murmurs the second the words left Kageyama’s mouth. The PR reps exchanged glances, whispering hurriedly amongst themselves, while the team managers’ faces grew increasingly serious.
“I told you this was a problem,” one of the PR members muttered.
“Worse than we thought,” another whispered.
“You were right to call this meeting,” someone else said in the back.
Amidst the buzz of the room, Hinata swore he heard someone whisper, ‘I knew it, you owe me 5000 yen,’ and his eyes widened in disbelief.
Hinata’s brain seemed to short-circuit as he processed Kageyama’s bold declaration. The way Kageyama had said it—so confidently, without hesitation—made Hinata’s stomach do wild flips. For someone who could barely get through a TV interview without saying something awkward, Kageyama sure didn’t seem to have any qualms about openly declaring their relationship to a room full of officials.
Hinata, on the other hand, felt like he was going to pass out.
He looked over at Kageyama, who still seemed entirely unaffected by the commotion. How could he be so calm?
“Quiet.” The MSBY team manager’s gruff voice cut through the air like a whip. Silence fell across the room as all eyes turned to the two volleyball players. The tension was palpable.
“How long have you two been involved?” His stern gaze landed on Hinata and Kageyama, his voice pressing with a weight that made Hinata squirm.
“I-I don’t think that’s an appropriate question to ask-,” Hinata stammered, nerves choking his words. His hands twisted in his lap, knuckles turning white.
“Exactly four days and five nights,” Kageyama answered calmly, cutting through Hinata’s hesitation. His tone was bold, almost too bold as if he had been waiting for this question all along.
Hinata gasped, his eyes snapping to Kageyama in shock. The specificity of the answer left a warm flush spreading across his cheeks. Kageyama had been counting the days—keeping track like it meant something more. The thought made Hinata’s heart flutter in his chest.
“Stop blushing,” Kageyama hissed under his breath. “We’re in a meeting.”
Before Hinata could respond, the MSBY team manager spoke again, his voice commanding attention. “Alright, here’s what’s going to happen.” He leaned forward, folding his hands on the table.
“We’re not going public with your relationship,” the manager stated flatly, his tone leaving no room for argument.
“What?” Hinata and Kageyama blurted out in unison, eyes wide in disbelief.
“B-but sir,” Hinata stammered. “Why—”
“Hinata,” the manager cut him off sharply. “You’ve just joined the V-Leagues. This isn’t just about your personal life. It’s not that simple, especially not when you're involved with someone as high-profile as Kageyama.” He gestured to Kageyama, his eyes never leaving Hinata.
“I don’t understand,” Hinata said, his voice growing quieter as confusion and frustration swirled inside him.
“You two just got together,” the manager explained. “We don’t know how serious this is. If something goes wrong—and relationships do go wrong—you’ll have to go through a very public breakup.”
Hinata flinched at the word "breakup," the concept hitting him hard. He had just gotten together with Kageyama. The thought of losing him hadn’t even crossed his mind.
“And Hinata,” the manager continued, his tone softening but still serious, “Kageyama already has a global following. His fans adore him. No matter what happens, they’ll side with him in a breakup. You’ll be the one they turn against.”
“We don’t have to worry about that because we’re not breaking up!” Hinata protested, voice rising with emotion.
“It doesn’t even have to be a breakup, Hinata” One of the PR reps cut through. “It could be anything, speculation, rumors, any of that can trigger the fan base to turn on you.”
“I don’t care if they turn against me!” Hinata shouted back.
“But you should,” the manager said firmly. “As Kageyama knows, if the public turns on you, they won’t watch you play. And if they’re not watching, we can’t justify keeping you on the team, no matter how talented you are.”
Hinata’s breath caught in his throat. The ground seemed to drop out from under him as the full weight of the manager’s words sank in. He hadn’t just found his place in the volleyball world—he had finally found something that felt right in his life. And now it was all slipping away, threatening to unravel before it even truly began.
“N-no, this can’t be—Kageyama, tell them they’re wrong,” Hinata pleaded, turning to his boyfriend. His eyes stung with unshed tears, and his voice trembled with desperation.
But Kageyama’s face was grim as he shook his head, his voice heavy with defeat. “He’s right, Shoyo…”
The MSBY team manager leaned forward, his gaze softening as he addressed Hinata directly. “Hinata, you’ve got a bright future ahead of you. You’re going to be a star, and everyone in this room knows it.” Out of the corner of his eye, Hinata saw Kageyama nodding in agreement, though the sadness in his expression was unmistakable. “Don’t let anything jeopardize that.”
Hinata dropped his head, the tears threatening to spill over. His hands were clenched so tightly around the edges of his chair that his knuckles turned pale.
“It’ll be for the best,” one of the PR representatives chimed in gently. “You two just got together. It would only put unnecessary strain on your relationship if the public got involved.”
“She’s right,” the MSBY manager agreed, gesturing with a finger as if this was all a foregone conclusion. “Just imagine—articles, gossip, interviews… both good and bad.”
“We can overcome all of that!” Hinata bit out, defiance flaring up inside him.
“Regardless of your feelings, Hinata,” the manager said sternly, “both MSBY and the Schweiden Adlers will not support you going public with your relationship. If you can’t keep it private, and the public turns on you, we will not protect you. What happens to your volleyball career after that will be beyond our control.”
The words hit Hinata like a punch to the gut. The tears in his eyes blurred his vision, but he fought to hold them back, the growing lump in his throat making it hard to breathe. He had finally made it. He had found his place, his love, and his future. And now, he had to hide the thing most precious to him.
Kageyama’s voice was the only thing that brought him back to reality.
“For how long?” Kageyama’s voice was steady, but the weight of the question hung in the air.
“Huh?” Hinata blinked, caught off guard.
“You said you won’t support us because our relationship just started,” Kageyama continued, his gaze locked on the MSBY team manager. “How long do we have to be together before we can go public and retain your support?”
The MSBY team manager leaned back in his chair, clearly not expecting that question. He tapped his fingers on the desk thoughtfully before glancing at the PR representative, who shifted in her seat.
“Ahem—” the PR representative cleared her throat, adjusting her glasses nervously. “For celebrity relationships, we usually recommend waiting at least six months.”
“We can do six months—” Hinata blurted out, eager, but she raised a hand to stop him, her discomfort apparent.
“However, given how fresh Hinata’s career is, and how vulnerable he could be in the media spotlight…” She hesitated, glancing at both players. Her hands fidgeted with her glasses again as if hoping they could save her from delivering the next part. “We recommend… we recommend at least a year.”
Hinata felt his chest tighten. A year ? They’d have to hide their relationship for an entire year? He had already spent so long hiding his feelings for Kageyama, ever since high school. He clenched his fists, his heart pounding with frustration. He wanted to scream, to shout it from the rooftops that Kageyama Tobio was his. He didn’t care about the club’s support. He didn’t care about the media. He just wanted the world to know—
“We agree to your terms.” Kageyama’s voice was calm, cutting through Hinata’s rising tension. He stood and gave a small, respectful bow. “We apologize for any inconvenience we may have caused you.”
Hinata whipped his head toward him in disbelief. What?
“Very well.” The team manager’s voice was brisk as if wrapping up a business deal. “It’s settled then. Keep your relationship out of the public eye for one year. No one outside of this room can know. That includes friends, family, teammates- everyone. After that, if you’re still together—” Hinata had to fight the urge to roll his eyes at the if —“you’ll have the full support of both clubs when you go public.”
Hinata could barely process what was happening. How had they gone from dreaming of their relationship being public to agreeing to a year of secrecy in a matter of minutes? He felt like the floor had been pulled out from under him.
What just happened?
Kageyama stood up, and Hinata could only follow, numb with disbelief. A sharp feeling of betrayal gnawed at his chest. They were dismissed from the boardroom, and both left silently.
The walk down the hallway was silent.
The taxi ride to Kageyama’s apartment was silent.
The climb up the stairs was silent.
When Kageyama pulled out his keys to unlock the door, it was silent.
They entered the apartment, and as Kageyama quietly closed the door behind them, the tension that had been building finally snapped.
Hinata took a few steps inside, then spun around, fury marring his features.
“How dare you?!” he shouted, his voice trembling with anger. “You’re just going to let them stifle us like that?”
“I’m saving you, dumbass! You should be grateful!” Kageyama shot back, his frustration uncontainable.
“ Grateful?! ” Hinata’s voice cracked as he gestured wildly, arms flung out in exasperation. “How am I supposed to be grateful for this? We just got together, and now no one’s allowed to know?”
“Yes!” Kageyama snapped. “This is to protect you !”
“Protect me from what? From being your boyfriend?!”
“You heard them in there! If something goes wrong, it’s going to hurt you, not me!”
“Oh, so you think we’re going to break up?” Hinata’s voice dropped, incredulous. “That’s what this is!”
“Of course not, you moron! But we can’t predict what the public will do to you—”
“I don’t care what the public will do to me!” Hinata’s eyes blazed with defiance.
“Well, I do! ” Kageyama’s voice cracked as the words tore out of him, raw and unrestrained. The intensity of his outburst hung in the air like a physical force. Hinata froze mid-step, his anger halting as the weight of Kageyama’s words crashed into him,
“I care tremendously about what happens to you, Shoyo,” Kageyama said, his breath heavy, his chest rising and falling quickly as he fought back the flood of emotion. “If something happens to you or your career, if you get hurt, because of me…” His voice wavered, barely holding it together. “If anything happens to you… I-I could never live with myself…”
Hinata’s anger faltered, softening as he saw Kageyama so vulnerable. The setter’s eyes were wide, on the verge of tears. Without thinking, Hinata stepped forward, his hands shaking.
“I-I don’t want to hide,” he croaked, his voice breaking as he wrapped his arms around Kageyama. Tears spilled freely down his cheeks, and a quiet sob escaped him. Kageyama pulled him closer, holding him tightly.
“I don’t want to either,” Kageyama whispered, his own tears falling as he buried his face into Hinata’s shoulder. His voice cracked with the weight of his emotions. “But it would kill me to see you get hurt. I would never be able to forgive myself for letting that happen.”
Hinata sobbed softly in Kageyama’s arms, his resolve crumbling. “Okay…” he wailed, his words barely audible. “Y-You win…”
Tears continued to flow as Kageyama hugged him tighter, his grip firm but gentle. “Only one year,” he reassured, voice soft and trembling.
“Only one year…” Hinata repeated, sniffing through his tears, clinging to him.
They stood there, holding each other, finding solace in the promise that this was only temporary.
“Hey, hey, hey! Hinataaa!” Bokuto boomed as he strolled into the locker room, his loud entrance causing Hinata to jump.
“There he is! The man of the hour!” Atsumu added with a mischievous grin, slapping Hinata on the back a little too hard.
Hinata blinked, completely thrown off. “Man of the hour? Why?”
“For bagging the King himself! Congrats, man!” Atsumu said, winking like they were all in on the same secret.
Hinata’s heart skipped a beat, panic rising as his mind raced to figure out what they were talking about. “W-What? What are you talking about?”
“Don’t play dumb!” Bokuto laughed, leaning in closer. “We all know what’s goin’ on. Kageyama practically sprinted over to your apartment after the match. That’s basically a confession!” He gave a cheeky grin.
Atsumu’s smirk widened as he proudly added, “Yeah, I gave him your address. You’re welcome, by the way.” He finished with a sing-song.
Hinata’s face flushed crimson, his voice rising in sheer panic. “No, no, no! You’re wrong!” His eyes darted around nervously as he felt the heat creep up his neck. “Kageyama’s just… just a friend! ” The desperation in his voice only made it sound more suspicious. “He’s only just a friend!” He repeated.
Bokuto’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Wait, seriously?”
Hinata frantically grabbed his bag, his face bright red as he stammered, “I said you’re wrong!” before bolting for the door like his life depended on it.
Atsumu and Bokuto stood frozen for a moment, watching the door swing shut behind him.
Atsumu scratched the back of his head. “Well, that was weird… Did I mess somethin’ up?”
Bokuto frowned, rubbing his chin thoughtfully. Then his eyes widened. “Oh, no! He’s heartbroken !”Atsumu’s jaw dropped.
“Heartbroken? You think Kageyama rejected him?”
Bokuto nodded, his expression serious. “Yeah! That’s why he freaked out like that. It’s gotta be.”
“But… but I thought they were totally into each other!” Atsumu said, genuinely surprised. “Kageyama’s always givin’ him those weird intense looks during matches like he’s either gonna fight him or… kiss him…or fuc-.”
“I know, right?” Bokuto said, shaking his head in disbelief. “They’ve been flirting forever! Every time I see them together. They got some weird love-hate rivalry thing.”
Atsumu gasped dramatically, throwing a hand over his mouth. “When Kageyama ran over to his apartment, Hinata must’ve thought he was confessing. But then we thought the same thing too…” Atsumu recalled. “I was sure there were feelings there.”
Bokuto sighed dramatically, folding his arms. “I can’t believe Kageyama rejected him. Poor Hinata, he probably thought they were on the same page!”
“Damn,” Atsumu said, shaking his head in sympathy. “It must’ve crushed him. Bein’ in love with yer friend, only to get shot down… brutal.”
Bokuto nodded gravely. “It all makes sense now. That’s why he’s so emotional! He’s been pinin’ for Kageyama, and now it’s all one-sided. No wonder he ran off.”
Atsumu clucked his tongue, putting on his best sympathetic face. “Man, I really thought they were already screwin’. Guess we misread the whole thing.”
Bokuto’s eyes widened in horror. “Atsumu, we can’t ever bring this up again. It’ll just hurt Hinata more.”
“Agreed,” Atsumu said, crossing his arms. “We’ll take this to the grave.”
They both stood in silence for a moment, before Atsumu leaned closer with a conspiratorial grin.
“Well,” Atsumu broke the silence, “we can’t just leave it like this.”
“Nah, definitely not. He’s heartbroken!” Bokuto added, shaking his head solemnly. “Poor guy, he’s already emotional, and now he’s dealin’ with this ? That’s gonna mess with his head— and his game !”
“We can’t have that,” Atsumu said firmly. “Hinata’s too important to the team.”
“And Kageyama too!” Bokuto nodded. “If he rejected Hinata, it’s only because he’s too dumb to realize his own feelings.”
“They’re both dumb. Obviously.” Atsumu sighed dramatically. “We can’t let this tension ruin team dynamics, Bo.”
Bokuto’s eyes widened with sudden seriousness. “You’re right! For the sake of MSBY, we need to make sure these two idiots figure it out!”
“Yeah, otherwise, we’ll be dealing with mopey Hinata and emotionally constipated Kageyama,” Atsumu added. “That’s a disaster waiting to happen. No one’ll be able to focus on their spikes with all the brooding in the air.”
“So we’ve gotta help ‘em get together!” Bokuto declared as if they’d just come up with a master plan.
“For the sake of the team.” Atsumu nodded sagely. “Nothing else. Just pure, professional concern.”
“It’ll save the team! We’re basically heroes,” Bokuto grinned, a gleam of excitement in his eyes.
“Professional heroes…” Atsumu grinned, stroking his chin thoughtfully at the idea.
“But we can’t let them know, or it’ll freak them out. We’ll have to be subtle.”
“Deal,” Atsumu said, slapping Bokuto’s shoulder. “Operation ‘Get -Hinata- and -Kageyama- Laid -For -The- Good -of -the -Team’ begins now.”
Atsumu slapped Bokuto on the back, both of them grinning like they’d already won. “We’re gonna be the best matchmakers Japan has ever seen.”
“Totally,” Bokuto agreed. “They’ll be thanking us at their wedding.”
With their grand plan in motion, Atsumu and Bokuto shared a confident nod, ready to play cupid for the clueless pair.
Scene Break:
“Atsumu, how do you feel about the rumors surrounding your teammate, Hinata Shoyo, and his alleged romantic relationship with Kageyama Tobio?” a reporter asked, thrusting a microphone in his face as soon as he stepped out of the locker room.
Atsumu stopped mid-stride, his usual cocky smirk already forming as he turned to face the cameras.
With all the arrogance in the world, Atsumu locked eyes with the camera, his smirk widening. "Ah, the million-dollar question," he drawled, rubbing his chin dramatically as if deep in thought.
“I can neither confirm nor deny these allegations myself,” he said, his voice laced with faux seriousness, making sure the camera caught every bit of his theatrics. "Personally, I’ve never seen anything between those two that would imply anything more than friendship ." He emphasized the last word, nodding thoughtfully to himself as if he was the final authority on the matter.
The reporters leaned in, hungry for more, while Atsumu pretended to mull over his words. He paused just long enough to build suspense before adding with a sly grin, “But if they were to get together, I think it would be pretty gay—I mean, pretty great .” He flashed a mischievous grin, giving a thumbs up toward the camera in a cheesy display of mock enthusiasm.
A ripple of laughter erupted from the crowd of reporters, but Atsumu’s grin only widened.
But behind that grin, Atsumu’s inner monologue ran wild. Can’t risk getting canceled, he thought smugly to himself, pleased with the perfect balance of cheeky humor and plausible deniability. The thumbs-up, of course, was a nice touch—enough to show his “support” without confirming a thing.
He gave a short nod, signaling that he was done, and turned on his heel, walking away from the reporters as if the whole interview had been a minor inconvenience to his day. But as he strode off, the pleased look on his face was undeniable. Another successful interview in the bag, and his own reputation still intact.
Don’t worry, Shoyo-kun. I’m gonna get you laid. He thought smugly.
11 Months and 2 Weeks Before Going Public:
The PR team sat in silence, eyes glued to the monitor as Hinata’s latest interview unfolded.
“Hinata, congratulations on your latest win!” the interviewer beamed. “How do you feel about your performance tonight?” the interviewer asked, leaning in, eager for more.
“Thank you!” Hinata grinned brightly as he approached from the volleyball court, his eyes sparkling at the camera. “Honestly, it feels amazing! I just love being out there on the court, feeling the energy from the crowd! There’s nothing like it!” His energy was contagious. His charisma was undeniable.
“Well, I’m sure your team is grateful for all your great plays tonight!” She complimented.
His energy radiated through the screen as he waved enthusiastically to the audience back home. “It was a tough match, but we pulled through! I’m really grateful for my team and all the talented players I get to work with! They really stepped up, especially during those intense rallies!”
“Speaking of talented players …” the interviewer began, a sly smile creeping onto her face. “Rumors have it that you’ve been involved with a world-famous player: Kageyama Tobio.” She pronounced Kageyama’s name with an exaggerated flourish, clearly enjoying the moment. “Care to comment?” She turned the microphone back to him.
Hinata’s expression dropped like a lead balloon. His bright smile faded, and he suddenly looked as if the life had been sucked out of him. He stared straight into the camera, the sparkles gone. The flash of panic in his eyes was palpable. He cleared his throat before responding.
“Kageyama Tobio is a talented player and a great friend,” he said, his voice eerily robotic—so different from the exuberant persona he had moments ago. “Our relationship is purely platonic and I look forward to working with him for the years to come. Thank you for your question.” He bowed quickly and bolted off-camera, practically disappearing.
The video paused abruptly. The room erupted into an awkward silence.
“See that right there, Hinata?” the PR manager pointed at the screen, frustration oozing from her voice. “That was not helping the rumors! You’re supposed to sound natural! Everyone now knows you were handed a script for responses like that.”
Hinata sheepishly rubbed the back of his neck. “Uh, I was just… trying to stick to the script?”
“You suck, Hinata,” Kageyama muttered, earning an elbow from Hinata.
“You’re no better, Kageyama,” his team manager shot back, narrowing her eyes at him before turning her attention back to the screen. “Let’s see how you handled your interview.”
With a click, Kageyama’s latest segment played, and he shrank lower in his seat.
“Kageyama, congratulations on your setter award!” the reporter exclaimed.
“Thank you,” he replied flatly, his expression as stoic as ever.
“Someone as talented as you must lead an exciting life. Can you share your thoughts on the rumors that you and Hinata Shoyo are romantically involved?”
The camera zoomed in on Kageyama’s face, his stoic demeanor cracking under pressure. Panic flickered in his eyes.
He leaned into the microphone, voice low and urgent. “I…I-I have no idea who that is.”
“What—” the interviewer blinked in surprise.
“Thank you for coming!” He cut her off abruptly, bowing stiffly before taking off like a startled deer, nearly sprinting in the opposite direction.
The video paused again, and all eyes turned to Kageyama, who was now redder than a tomato.
“Great job, Kageyama,” the PR manager said dryly, crossing her arms. “You went from a setter to a sprinter in two seconds flat.”
The PR manager’s expression was a mix of disbelief and irritation as she rubbed her temples. “This is exactly what I was worried about. You two are making this far worse than it needs to be! Do you even listen to yourselves?”
Kageyama mumbled something incoherent, his face flushed with embarrassment. Hinata was looking down, ashamed.
“At least I didn’t run away like Scardey-Yama over here,” Hinata mumbled softly.
“At least I don’t sound robotic, dumbass.” He bit back.
“What are you talking about? You are known for your robotic interviews, Robotic-yama- ”
Their PR manager cleared her throat, drawing their attention back to the screen. “Let’s take a look at the aftermath of your interviews,” she said, clicking play.
The video resumed, showing a montage of headlines flashing across the screen:
“Kageyama Denies Knowing Hinata Shoyo Despite Going to Highschol Together.”
“Hinata Shoyo’s suspicious response when asked about Kageyama Tobio.”
“World-Class Setter Kageyama: The Master of Avoidance!”
Hinata winced. “That looks bad.”
“Worse than bad,” the PR manager retorted. “Do you two even realize how much attention you’re drawing? We need to manage this before it spirals out of control.”
Kageyama groaned, “What do you want us to do? Make a public statement? Hold hands in public?”
Hinata’s eyes lit up at the suggestion. “That could work! We could make it look like we’re just really close friends!”
The PR manager shot them a flat look. “What kind of idea is that?! The headlines would scream, ‘Kageyama and Hinata Confirm Relationship!’ You’d be better off pretending to be strangers.”
“Let’s try that then! Be strangers.”
“No!” She retorted “The whole world knows you went to Karasuno together.”
“Oh…” They said in unison.
“Alright, let's take five.” She said pinching the bridge of her nose. “We’re going to review your scripts when you get back.”
Scene Break:
“Hoshiumi, what are your thoughts on your teammate Kageyama Tobio and rival Hinata Shoyo being romantically involved?”
Hoshiumi was walking out of the gym with an onigiri in hand. At the mention of Hinata’s name, he halted in his tracks, Hoshiumi’s demeanor brightened, an eager spark igniting in his eyes. “Hinata Shoyo?” His voice rose with excitement.
“Yes, what are your thoughts on him being potentially involved with your teammate?” The reporter repeated, eager to get a response.
“I don’t care who he’s dating!”
The reporter pressed on, “So you have no thoughts on the rumors?”
Hoshiumi’s expression shifted, determination radiating from him. “I don’t care who he’s dating. He could be dating my cousin for all I care, because I will defeat him!” He leaned forward, his competitive spirit bubbling to the surface.
“That’s not what—” the reporter attempted to clarify, but Hoshiumi was already stepping closer, positioning himself directly in front of the camera, his gaze intense and unwavering.
“Hinata, if you’re watching, I hope you’re training as hard as you can!” he declared, his voice ringing with enthusiasm. He brought a fist to fist to his chest as he announced proudly, “Because I most certainly am. The day of your defeat is fast approaching!”
The reporters shifted uncomfortably, caught off guard by Hoshiumi’s fervent proclamation. The air was thick with anticipation as if everyone could feel the rivalry heating up.
“ Oh, and by the way,” he added casually, a mischievous grin spreading across his face, the mood immediately lightnening, “we’re going out for drinks tonight, so you and the MSBY team should tag along! It’ll be a blast! Hope to see you tonight!” With a playful wave, he stepped back, leaving the reporters in a mix of confusion and amusement.
11 Months Before Going Public:
Hinata should’ve known better.
He should’ve known better the moment Bokuto and Atsumu came barreling into the locker room after practice, all too eager and grinning like idiots. "Hey, hey, hey! Let’s hit the bars tonight!" Bokuto declared, bouncing on his heels.
“For team building!” Bokuto added, winking so dramatically that it looked like he might sprain his eyelid.
Hinata should’ve been suspicious right then and there. But no—he chalked it up to their usual chaos and went along with it.
He definitely should’ve known better when they suggested playing an unnecessary amount of drinking games. “It’s good for bonding,” Atsumu claimed, shuffling a deck of cards like a seasoned con artist.
Every round, it was Hinata who somehow ended up on the losing side, forced to down another drink while Bokuto and Atsumu exchanged way too many high-fives and ‘innocent’ grins.
Almost like it was rigged.
By the time they were on their third bar hop, Hinata was struggling to stay upright, noticing the increasing frequency of those exchanged looks between Atsumu and Bokuto. He couldn't help but think there was some sort of inside joke being played on him—but with his head swimming in alcohol, he was too far gone to care.
When they stumbled into the final bar, he really should’ve known better. Because it wasn’t a coincidence when they "accidentally" ran into the Schweiden Adlers celebrating their latest win.
And he definitely should’ve seen it coming when his eyes landed on a very sober, very wide-eyed Kageyama sitting at a table, mid-conversation, before his gaze locked onto Hinata’s swaying figure.
"Oh, great ," Hinata thought, his heart doing that familiar flip-flop it always did when Kageyama was around, but this time tinged with panic.
Hinata really should’ve known better.
“What a coincidence!” He regisered Bokuto announcing as he approached the other team.
Because the moment he found himself sandwiched between a very sober Kageyama and a smugly grinning Atsumu at the bar, things were bound to go sideways.
“Fancy seeing you here, Tobio-chan!” Atsumu chirped, leaning forward with a knowing glint in his eyes. Bokuto, on the other side of Kageyama, nodded enthusiastically, a wide grin plastered across his face, as if they hadn’t just orchestrated the most obvious setup ever.
Kageyama, who had been about to take a sip of water, shot Atsumu a glare so sharp it could’ve cut glass. “What are you talking about?”
“Don’t play dumb,” Atsumu chuckled, casually throwing an arm around Hinata’s shoulders. Hinata blinked in confusion, swaying slightly as he tried to focus on Kageyama. “Just thought you’d wanna sit next to your favorite opponent, that’s all.”
“Hinata! You’re here!” Hoshiumi stumbled in next to Hinata, his words slurring slightly. “I challenge you to a drinking challenge!” He sputtered, clearly having already had a few.
Kageyama’s voice dropped an octave, stern and unyielding. “That’s not a good idea, Hoshiumi. He already looks drunk.”
Atsumu and Bokuto both turned to Hinata, feigning concern, as if it was the first time they’ve seen Hinata all night. Atsumu had a hand clapped over his mouth, trying—and failing—to stifle his laughter. Bokuto placed a hand to his chest, his mouth agape in mock horror.
“Oh my!” Bokuto exclaimed dramatically, eyes wide. “You do look drunk, Hinata-kun! How did this happen?”
“Why did you drink so much?” Atsumu chimed in, barely containing his snickers.
“Someone should take you home!” Both of them turned to Kageyama with a mischievous shine in their eyes.
The only response he received was Hinata swaying back in forth.
“It looks like yer little boyfriend could use some help getting home.” Atsumu drawled, placing his hand on the Adler’s shoulder.
Kageyama’s brow twitched. “He’s not my—" He stopped, glancing at a tipsy, red-faced Hinata who was teetering on the stool. "He’s fine. He doesn’t need any—“
“Ohhh?” Bokuto’s eyes lit up, leaning in like he was hearing something juicy. “You sure, Kageyama? You look pretty concerned for someone who's ‘just fine.’” He waggled his eyebrows, a poorly disguised wink following.
“I’m not concerned,” Kageyama grumbled, his face darkening as he folded his arms. "He can take care of himself."
“Welllll, since you’re so concerned.” Astumu drawled, ignoring Kageyama’s defensive statements and claims that he ‘did not care’ , “Then you won’t mind takin’ him home, right? Y'know... just to make sure he doesn’t trip over his own feet or something.”
Kageyama shot him a withering look. “Why would I do that?”
“He’s you’re favorite opponent after all.” Atsumu said in a low, suggestive tone.
Hinata, still trying to catch up to the conversation, hiccupped loudly, drawing attention to his swaying posture. Bokuto reached out to steady him, patting him on the back a little too hard. “There, there, buddy. We don’t want you walkin’ home all by yourself in this state! Right, Kageyama?”
Kageyama sighed heavily, clearly running out of patience. “I’m not his babysitter.”
“That’s not what we’re sayin’, Tobio-chan,” Atsumu said, smiling far too sweetly as he leaned on the bar, turning to face Kageyama head-on. “We’re just sayin’… it’d be real convenient if someone who, say, knows where Hinata lives could make sure he gets home safe.”
Kageyama stiffened at the implication. His eyes darted toward Atsumu, narrowing as if to shut down whatever twisted plan was forming in his head. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Oh, nothing.” Atsumu waved a hand dismissively, but the sly grin never left his face. “Just thinkin’ out loud.”
Bokuto elbowed Kageyama playfully. “Come on, man. You guys are good friends! ”
“ Extremely good friends” Atsumu added with a grin and a wink to match.
“He needs a little help, and you know where he lives. Simple as that!”
Kageyama’s scowl deepened. “That’s none of your business.”
Atsumu’s grin widened, clearly enjoying how flustered Kageyama was getting. “Ah, but see, it kinda is. We’re just tryin’ to make sure everything stays… nice and smooth between you two, y'know?”
Hinata, now catching on to the sheer absurdity of what was happening, groaned internally. He gave Kageyama a sheepish glance, but his ability to intervene was hampered by his own intoxicated state.
Kageyama opened his mouth to retort—likely to say something about how idiotic the entire conversation was—when Atsumu suddenly stood up, clapping his hands together. “Well! It’s been a fun night, boys, but we’ve got places to be.”
Somewhere in the back Hoshiumi cried out “You guys just got here!”
Bokuto nodded eagerly, standing up alongside him. “Yeah, gotta… uh, early training session tomorrow!” His excuse was as flimsy as wet paper, but he didn’t seem to care.
“Aren’t the three of you on the same team?” Kageyama responded gesturing to Hinata who was now struggling to keep his head up. The two MSBY players only seemed to ignore him.
Atsumu’s eyes sparkled with mischief as he bent down, whispering conspiratorially to Kageyama, “You know where he lives, don’t ya?” He winked in such an exaggerated way that Kageyama nearly rolled his eyes into the back of his head.
“Good luck, Tobio-chan!” Atsumu added with a little wave, already halfway out the door with Bokuto trailing behind, leaving Kageyama alone with a thoroughly confused and still tipsy Hinata.
Kageyama, now standing beside a very unsteady Hinata, sighed deeply, pinching the bridge of his nose. “I can’t believe those idiots…”
Hinata, leaning heavily against the bar, lifted his head up to stare up at Kageyama in awe. He let out a lazy giggle. “You… you look just like my boyfriend.” His voice was sing-song, and he grinned up at Kageyama, eyes hazy with alcohol.
Kageyama froze for half a second, his cheeks burning. He quickly grabbed Hinata’s arm and leaned down, hissing, “Quiet, dumbass!”
“But it’s true,” Hinata slurred, clearly not grasping the concept of discretion at the moment. “You sound like him too. All sexy-”
Kageyama’s scowl deepened as he hauled Hinata up from his stool. “Come on. Let’s get you out of here before you say anything else stupid.”
Hinata snickered, resting his head on Kageyama’s shoulder as they stumbled toward the exit. “Y’know… my boyfriend’s really tall. And grouchy.”
Kageyama sighed but said nothing, the faintest hint of a smile tugging at his lips as he wrapped his protective arms around his body and gently dragged Hinata out into the cool night air. Hinata leaned into his chest, barely able to make a step. “I said hush.”
Later That Night:
@TokyoVB_Gossip 📸| Spotted: Hinata and Kageyama from MSBY and the Adlers holding onto each other real close after a night out. 👀 Looks like more than teammates to us! 💕 #VBLovebirds #MSBY #SchweidenAdlers
@VBObsessed Replying to @TokyoVB_Gossip
Look at the way Kageyama is holding him!! He’s being so protective!! 🥺 They’re definitely a couple, calling it now!
@hinatashoyo_babyyy Replying to @blocktactician and @TokyoVB_Gossip
Lmao, what if he's just TAKING HIM HOME 'cause Hinata’s clearly DRUNK? I bet Kageyama’s all grumpy and annoyed 😂
The Next Day:
@TokyoVB_Gossip
👀| BREAKING : Spotted early this morning — Kageyama Tobio seen leaving Hinata Shoyo’s apartment?! What was he doing there? 😏 The plot thickens. #VBLovebirds #KageHina #MSBY #SchweidenAdlers #MorningWalkofShame?
@tsumtsumking
Replying to @TokyoVB_Gossip
OH MY GOD, Y'ALL. IT’S HAPPENING. IT’S REALLY HAPPENING. Kageyama at Hinata’s place?? The rumors are TRUE. 🔥🔥🔥
@boKoolowl
Replying to @tsumtsumking and @TokyoVB_Gossip
“Just teammates,” they said. “Enemies on the court,” they said. HAHAHAHAHA. #CoupleGoals 😭💖
@VolleyballVibes4Life
Replying to @TokyoVB_Gossip
Bro, this isn't just a walk of shame, this is a full victory lap . 💅 Kageyama staying the night?? No way they’re not dating!!
Hinata found himself sitting nervously on Kageyama’s couch, clutching a pillow for dear life as he watched his boyfriend scroll through the endless Twitter threads. Kageyama’s usual scowl deepened with each passing second, the tension in the room thick enough to cut with a knife. Hinata’s heart raced as he waited for the inevitable storm.
Silence hung uncomfortably between them. Kageyama finally looked up, his sharp, steel-blue eyes locking onto Hinata’s. The intensity of his gaze made Hinata’s stomach flip, and he had to force himself not to shrink back.
“The internet apparently knows where you live.” Kageyama’s voice was calm—too calm.
Hinata nodded meekly, biting his lip. “Y-Yeah, I guess…”
“This is concerning,” Kageyama continued, his tone frighteningly neutral. His calmness was unsettling; it felt like the calm before a storm.
Hinata swallowed, his fingers digging into the pillow. Here it comes.
“This is also completely your fault,” Kageyama added, deadpan. Hinata winced, already feeling the guilt settle into his bones.
“I know I know! I shouldn’t have gone out for drinks with those two.”
He braced himself. Kageyama was going to suggest that they stop seeing each other, wasn’t he? It would be the logical solution—no more sneaking into each other’s apartments, no more secret meetings. Their relationship was too risky, too dangerous. Hinata’s mind raced, mentally preparing himself for the blow.
“You’re going to move in with me.”
Hinata blinked, certain he hadn’t heard right. “Huh?”
“Do I have to say it again, dumbass?” Kageyama snapped, his voice raising a notch, though there was something else—something warmer—lurking beneath his usual gruffness. His cheeks were flushed, a rare sign of vulnerability. “Move into my place.”
“What?” Hinata’s brain struggled to catch up with what was happening.
“It makes perfect sense,” Kageyama said, crossing his arms as if this was the most obvious solution in the world. “ Your place is in the heart of Tokyo, practically a tourist attraction. We were bound to get caught. My apartment’s secluded. No one knows where I live.”
Hinata blinked, stunned. “But… but moving in together? That’s a big step, don’t you think?”
“Big step?” Kageyama scoffed, his frown deepening, but the red on his cheeks betrayed him. “We’ve been sneaking around for weeks. Wouldn’t it be easier if you were just… here? All the time?”
Hinata’s heart pounded. The thought of living with Kageyama, of waking up beside him every morning, felt both exhilarating and terrifying. He bit his lip, eyes flicking over Kageyama’s tense expression.
Then, before he could stop himself, he blurted out, “You know… you look just like my boyfriend when you’re mad.”
Kageyama froze for a second, his eyes widening. “H-Hinata, don’t say weird stuff like that.” He quickly looked away, but his blush deepened.
Unable to help himself, Hinata let out a snicker. “You’re kinda cute when you’re embarrassed, Kageyama.”
“That’s it.” Kageyama threw his phone aside, grabbing the pillow from Hinata’s hands and tossing it to the floor. “Shut up.”
Before Hinata could react, Kageyama had pinned him down on the couch, his firm body pressing Hinata into the cushions. The playful atmosphere shifted as Kageyama’s intense gaze bore into Hinata, filled with a hunger that made Hinata’s breath hitch.
“Y-You know, I wasn’t really complaining,” Hinata stammered, his heart racing as Kageyama leaned in closer, his breath warm against Hinata’s neck.
“Good,” Kageyama murmured, his voice low and rough. “Because I’m not done yet.”
Kageyama’s lips crashed against Hinata’s, hungry and demanding. Hinata melted into the kiss, his hands instinctively wrapping around Kageyama’s neck, pulling him closer. The tension that had been building all night spilled over as their lips moved together, fierce and desperate.
Kageyama’s hands roamed over Hinata’s body, sliding under his shirt, his touch igniting a fire under Hinata’s skin. Hinata gasped into the kiss, arching into Kageyama’s touch as their bodies pressed even closer. The world outside ceased to exist—the only thing that mattered was the heat between them.
“Move in with me,” Kageyama breathed against Hinata’s lips, his voice thick with desire. His hands slid lower, teasing the waistband of Hinata’s jeans.
Hinata’s breath hitched, his heart thudding wildly. “I-I’ll think about it,” he whispered, his voice shaky but laced with a teasing edge.
Kageyama growled softly, a wicked grin spreading across his face. “I’ll convince you.”
And with that, Kageyama claimed his lips again, the intensity of his kiss leaving no room for doubt. If this was what life with Kageyama would be like, Hinata was more than ready to move in.