Love's Melody

-Kuroko no Basket Fan-fiction-

By: The Uncrowned

Summary:

Kuroko Tetsumi is well-known in her school for being the 'Loner'. She doesn't have friends and is always so quiet. However, she is a very gifted musician. Although she shies away from the crowd, unknown to her, she caught the attention of a certain red-head. The ever-so popular Kagami Taiga.

Genres: Romance, music, school-life, comedy and drama

Pairing/s: Kagami Taiga and Kuroko Tetsumi ; One-sided males and Kuroko Tetsumi

Disclaimer: I own nothing but the storyline.

Author's note: 'thoughts' "verbal"

Author's note: Thanks for the reviews! I never get tired of thanking you guys so you probably will see the Author's note with 'thank you's' a lot. I can't help it, It makes me so damn happy! Who knew a single word from you guys, whom I never met personally, would make me so happy! You guys are really encouraging me so thank you so much!

And thanks to animefan106 for teaching me about the line stuff! Thank you!

Anyways, here's the 3rd chapter! Enjoy~!

Shared Dreams

The first period had started over a while ago and Kagami has yet to come. It made Kuroko anxious and definitely cautious. 'Maybe he's late. You can never be too sure. But then again, he'd never been this late, teacher told us so himself and concluded of him being absent'. Kuroko rubbed her hands together under her desk, too afraid to show her anxiously waiting for the red-head. Kuroko planned her escape, prepared for the worst and even practiced her comebacks. Call her stupid but, she doesn't really know how to hurt a person intentionally. She'd say the truth, then they'd start to hate her and begin spreading false rumors.

'Maybe he did understand after all. And besides finding me is a difficult task, I specialize in hiding my presence after all.' Kuroko heaved a sigh. She was definitely ready for the worst. But, little did she know, the red-head himself spelled 'Disaster'.

'Okay, okay.. Calm down. Aida's plan is positively bulletproof. I just have to surprise the girl and…and… I'll just,.. What do I need to do again?' Kagami sighed disappointedly. He forgot the damned plan! Seriously!? Not noticing someone with teal hair then forgetting the most important part of the plan!? Sometimes he wondered how on earth he managed to have stable grades, let alone be a student in the prestigious school that was Seirin.

"I'll just go with the flow, I guess." He convinced himself. After all, He needed to put effort, he skipped the 1st and 2nd period for the plan, he just can't back out when his band mates and manager are expecting so much. 'Besides, I don't wanna be killed by Hyugga-senpai and Aida.' He thought bitterly. Kagami then contacted Aida on his phone for the plans, he may have forgotten, but that doesn't mean he would cancel it and face the effects.

"Hello? Kagami-kun? You do know I'm having my Biology class right?" Aida hissed on the line softly, not wanting the unaware teacher to hear.

"Yeah but I sorta need your help… What… What was the plan again?" he asked a bit hesitantly, unsure if his would manger would snap at him, or curse him to death.

Aida sighed on the phone "Bakagami." she muttered before continuing. "It's a simple plan. The girl's name is Kuroko Tetsumi. 16 years of age and is currently your classmate. Row 6 at seat number 5. She's scholar student. She has an average of 89.7." Aida then muttered under her breath "How on earth could she be your classmate when your average is just 81? And by the way Bakagami, I'm impressed with your average, for an idiot, you sure got some stuff underneath your sleeves."

"Shut up." Kagami groaned before concluding. "That means she is seated behind me." 'Damn, I never really noticed her from the start'. "How'd you know all these again?" he sighed

"I asked the Faculty myself. Asked them if they know anyone with teal-hair and it turns out, she's the only girl with such color. But I'm not surprised. Teal, I don't really think anyone can be born with such color but, she proved that wrong."

"So, you're saying it's natural?"

"Just like your hair, yes it is."

"We're getting out of topic." Kagami reminded.

"I was just following your pace. Your idiocy seriously is contagious, Kagami-kun."

"Yeah, yeah… I'm heading in my classroom, wish me luck 'cause that's the least you could do."

"Jaa, Good luck Kagami-kun~!" her words dripping with sarcasm. It literally meant 'Go die, Kagami-kun~!'

Ending the call, he walked out of the janitor's closet, as he slowly made his way to the classroom. Grinning at his expectations, he slid the door open like his normal day to day routine abruptly, to surprise the victim with his non-expected presence.

"Sorry I'm late!" he said, grinning ever so brightly.

"Kagami-kun…" the teacher groaned yet again. 'And I here I thought you'd be absent' he mentally thought. "I warned you of the consequences, yet you still remain stubborn." The teacher said. However, Kagami wasn't really listening to the teacher, he was too busy searching the teal-haired girl—Kuroko wasn't it? He looked at his seat, then at the seat that followed him, oddly though, he couldn't spot the color he wanted.

'She won't go absent for something like this would she?' Kagami asked himself.

"Kagami-kun, are you listening?"

"Huh..? Oh, yeah" he said placing his scowl back on.

"Very well, stay at the classroom after dismissal."

"Yeah, yeah." Kagami then began to walk towards his seat, unlike yesterday though, he left his guitar bag so he doesn't have to worry about running away from the 'Killer huggers'. 'I have to stay behind.. Just my day'

"Wait… Stay at the classroom?" Kagami repeated.

"Yes. Now please make my day and take your seat."

"But, why?"

"Kagami-kun, you really weren't listening, were you?" asked the teacher, despite knowing the answer. Kagami was practically in La-la Land when he was talking, what can you expect?

"Y-yeah" he said sheepishly.

"I told you yesterday that, when you get 10 late marks you'd be in detention, this is your 10th time Kagami-kun so you have to stay behind for the consequences. I'll think about the things you'll do and I'll tell you in dismissal. Right now, your job is to be a student, so please act like one."

"Ehh?! But I got some stuff to do! I have to do it today!"

"Why didn't you think of that from the beginning? If you did, you might have some inspiration to make it in class."

"But I—"

"No buts, no stay in your seat and listen otherwise I'll kick you out of the classroom."

"I told you *Ojii-san! I'am busy!" Kagami said while his classmates started laughing. Wondering why, he repeated the words he just said to his teacher. 'I said 'Ojii-san…..' he then paled at his mistake.

"O-jii-san" The teacher muttered. "….. Go out!" the teacher yelled, kicking Kagami outside of the classroom, making Kagami land on his butt.

"Oii! I'm sorry 'bout that but I deserve better treatment!" Kagami complained after landing. After saying 'Ouch' of course, getting your butt kicked was painful as it was but landing on the cold floor? That's just ...'Ouchie'

"And so do I young man! Now stay out 'till lunch break!"

"Whatever" Kagami muttered under his breath. At least he's mature enough to know not fight back to the poor old man, the teacher's 47 for damn's sake. Standing up, he patted his pants and sighed.

"Getting insulted by Aida, your victim still on the loose, getting detention and finally being kicked out of the classroom. My future's bright alright." He said bitterly.

Kagami walked by the hallway, lunch break will start after 2 hours implying he'd have time looking for the girl, but then again, that girl's probably absent from school. All he can do right now is sleep. At least in that way, he can dream about beating a certain teacher's ass.

Thinking for the best place to sleep, he thought about the clinic, but decided against it. The nurse would probably hug him to death plus, they'd be alone while Kagami sleeps, who knows what could happen. Sighing, he chose his favorite place. The rooftop. It may be on the 6th floor, but sleeping while feeling the breeze against your skin? That's too damn good to be chosen over with. Smirking, he started his walk on the school, heading to his favored destination.

After a couple of minutes, Kagami reached the rooftop with a bead of sweat rolling of his nose. It may not look like it but the rooftop was far, you'd have to pass 6 ramps. It was painstaking but it was worth it for his nap.

Opening the door, he stepped in the plain field. Well, not really a field, it was cemented since there was a green house. A big one at that, one that had lots of eatable plants and flowers. Not like Kagami gave a damn. But it did have a canopy swing good for 4 people. That was probably the only thing great about the green house, it's a total escape world for students who doesn't like studying. Kagami wasn't the studious type, he was more of a rebellious type, but that doesn't mean he doesn't give a damn about his scores, he just hated studying. That's all there is to it.

Walking toward the green house, he entered silently in case if some people or, the 'Killer huggers' specifically, were there. Hiding behind a bush, he was surprised to see a fluff of teal. Taking a step once more, his vision being cleared. He recognized what the fluff of teal is. It's hair. The hair of the girl he'd been looking for.

Kuroko sat at the canopy swing for the past 15 minutes. Being inside the classroom was uncomforting. There were so many 'What if's' in her mind while she was in the classroom. What if Kagami will come inside? What if he was only really late? What if she'll have her guard down? and so on with her worries. So, to feel secured, she told the teacher about her stomach being upset and he let her go with no reluctance. She felt bad about lying but, it was the only way to get away from her doubts. Though Kagami looked like an idiot, which Kuroko doesn't know he really is in some or most areas, Kuroko's definitely sure that the red-head would be more observant in his surroundings and since her color was anything but unnoticeable, she resorted into hiding.

'But at one point or another, he would find out sooner or later. Besides, I can't hide forever.' Kuroko sighed. The worries would be attended later, all she wants is her rest from all the stressful things. She would clean if she had a chance, but the classroom was still occupied 'till dismissal which would be in 3:30 PM, she can't waste time on all the waiting so, Kuroko decided to stay in the rooftop 'till lunch break to relax a bit. In doing so, she'll sing to let it all out.

"Sakura hirahira maiorite ochite

Yureru omoi no take wo dakishimeta

Kimi to haru ni negai shi ano yume wa

Ima mo miete iru yo sakura maichiru."

Kagami wanted to ignore the singing and just go towards the swing and, mission be damned for a while, sleep. But somehow, his feet refused to follow his brain, as if they were implanted on the cements underneath his shoes.

Again. Kagami was hypnotized by her again. Her voice and her angelic appearance. She was so good at doing this that Kagami doesn't really mind if he would sleep on the cold, cemented floor to keep her from running away again. All he wanted to do was to listen. Listen to her 'till the end. Even though no instrument was being played, he could tell that the song was for soothing and relaxing. 'Maybe she's stressed' he thought. But that voice, he knew that the voice alone gave him an answer. And besides, it was Spring. The song and the voice were matched with the weather and the feeling people should feel at Spring. The feelings of warmth, love and serenity.

"Densha kara mieta no wa

Itsuka no omokage

Futari de kayotta haru no oohashi

Sotsugyou no toki ga kite

Kimi wa machi wo deta

Irozuku kawabe ni ano hi wo sagasu no"

Kagami wanted to listen to the end so badly, but if wanted more of that voice, he has to complete the task at hand. That way, everyone will know and understand why Kagami was stunned when she sang. He knows he's exaggerating, but words aren't really specified enough to describe her.

"Th-that's enough. Sing anymore, and I'll really sleep." Kagami said loudly. Enough for her to hear, as he stepped out of the bush for Kuroko to see him.

Kuroko stopped her singing. Turning around, she wanted to choke herself for being so defenseless. Of all the people that could come, it just had to the person she was avoiding. Luck seemed to be against her.

"I'm.. sorry" she said with her expressionless face.

"Seriously, stop with the apologizing" Kagami grunted. Even though he looked cool on the outside, his insides were in turmoil. How would he ask her now when everything between them was just plain awkward? And by the way, Kuroko staring wasn't helping either.

"Please excuse me Kagami-kun" Kuroko said as she stood up, preparing to leave.

"Wait. Sit down. I wanna talk to you…" Kagami said seriously for Kuroko to understand that he wasn't joking. 'She sure is fast when running away.'

However, the seriousness in his voice made Kuroko misunderstand. 'He's going to blackmail me for touching his guitar. How manly.' She snorted. "There's nothing to talk about Kagami-kun. If it's about your guitar, I believe I have already said my apologies." she stated nonchalantly despite her growing worry inside.

"It's not about that. Just…. Take a seat will you? then we'll talk" Kagami replied, hoping his anxiety wouldn't show.

"Fine." Kuroko said as she took her seat once again. She twirled her teal waist-lengthed hair. An unconscious hobby she does when she gets nervous.

'Act like a man Kagami! You've talked with girls before, this won't be any different' he encouraged himself but,little did he know how much of a lie the last part was. With other girls, he felt scared and tense but with this girl, he felt calm and nervous at the same time. There was a huge difference between that. Kagami wouldn't think twice about rejecting them, but this girl made Kagami want to take it slow and careful. As if she'd die if Kagami was the otherwise.

"Ummm… My name's Kagami Taiga. Lead vocalist and guitarist of RED." Kagami stated. 'As if she wouldn't know that! Man up Kagami!'

"Kuroko. My name is Kuroko Tetsumi." As much as Kuroko wanted to run away, she knew better than ignore a person trying his very best not to show his anxiety. And besides, the guy was trying to be a gentleman. The least she could do is warm-up to him and answer the questions thrown at her honestly. Kuroko was never the rude and the impolite type anyways.

"I'm sure you've heard of 'RED', the band that is."

"Yes I have."

"Well… My manager and band mates are curious to meet you. You see, my manager wanted a girl band mate so badly and… well, you fit the bill. Not only that, your voice. It's.. Perfect."

"That would be an honor Kagami-kun, but I must decline." Kuroko stated casually.

"E-Ehhhh?" Kagami gawked. "W-why is that? Besides, shouldn't you think about it more carefully?"

"I've made my decision. I really like my life as it is. I sing for fun, not for fame."

"Then we are the same! I sing for my passion in music not just for fame! I want to inspire people through music!" he declared all too suddenly.

"That's nice Kagami-kun." She said softly. "But I want my peaceful life."

"Not having a dream is as chaotic as it is." Kagami countered.

"My dream Kagami-kun is to have a simple and peaceful life. Having my talent is a bonus." Kuroko frowned.

"Talents are meant to be shared." Kagami scowled. "Who knows? You might inspire people to strive harder to achieve their dreams. And it's not like we wanted to become famous. It's simply a bonus and I'm damn happy to be well-known! That way, I could inspire people more!"

"What is your point exactly Kagami-kun?"

"Share. Share your talent and help us inspire people."

"Why exactly Kagami-kun?" Kuroko asked calmly. Kuroko wanted to join actually, but she had to make sure his intentions were pure. Unlike the bands that put on a façade and pretend. People who had no passion for music yet use their talent for fame and fortune. Kuroko loathed those kinds of people, she hated them for crushing the dreams of the innocent people who are unaware of who they truly are. 'But this guy's intentions are pure. He wants nothing more that to inspire people.'

"I was inspired, therefore I want to inspire other people as well in that person's honor." Kagami answered honestly.

"And who is this..?"

"That is none of your business." Kagami answered with his voice raised higher. Whenever that certain person was concerned, Kagami couldn't help but feel protective. It was always a touchy subject.

"I'm sorry." Kuroko apologized sincerely, but with her aloof face, Kagami couldn't really tell. But she was giving off the aura of a kicked puppy, and that was the clue to how sorry she really is. A clue that Kagami picked up and can't help but feel guilty.

"I'm.. sorry as well… I-I didn't mean to shout." Mumbled an embarrassed Kagami. Though it would be inaudible for others, thanks to the silence, Kuroko was able to hear it and smiled softly which resulted in a blushing Kagami .Though it was a soft kind of red, it was still there. 'She-she sm-smiled at m-me.'

"It's okay. But before I answer Kagami-kun would it be okay to give me at least a day to think about it?"

"O-okay.. But why are you hesitant?" He asked bluntly.

"I still like my peaceful life Kagami-kun. And unlike you, who has a reputation, I am a nobody. I'm the school's so called 'Loner' but you probably didn't know since your so busy to care." Frowned Kuroko a bit.

"O-okay..? Um…. I'll see you tomorrow then.." Kagami said a bit taken back. 'Is she blaming me?'

"Yes.. I'll see you soon. And, I'm not blaming you Kagami-kun" Kuroko replied slowly making her way towards the door.

"How di-"

"You're like an open book." Kuroko smiled before disappearing on the rooftop and into the door.

It was awkward for awhile. Kagami in his thoughts about the girl. Kuroko. Kuroko Tetsumi was her name.

"She's something alright" mumbled Kagami. 'And with that, it's mission accomplished. Getting detention was worth it huh?' Kagami mused to himself before preparing himself for nap time. A small smile plastered on his face.

Author's note: Hahaha! The longest chapter written yet for this story! I wanted to cut it out but I'd feel guilty 'cause your going to have to wait for a while for the next chapter and I didn't want that. Practices are almost over so I may speed up things a little though, I'm not so positive. But I'll update either way :))

I'm sorry if you think the little argument was lame 'cause I think so too. I never wrote something like that and well, I was lost I guess... I'm sorry if you guys think it's bad or lame even pathetic.. I'm still a beginner..

And sorry if you think I updated vary late... Like I said, I'm still a bit busy... -.-'

But I'll do my best I promise!

The song by the way was 'Sakura' by Ikimono Gakari! Check it out in Youtube! (I'm a huge fan of the band!)

*Ojii-san means old man, for those who didn't know :))