The only thing worse than rejection would be not getting a response. Which is what Kenma was currently experiencing. It was extremely uncomfortable at first, but by the next morning it was like nothing had happened. It stung a bit, but was among the least terrible of outcomes that had been in his head. They wore themselves ragged practicing, and their palms were perpetually irritated and red by the end of Shouyou's stay. But he had to admit it was worthwhile. Better than lazing around (no new games were out at the moment) or being pressured by coaches and teammates watching.
School was set to start back up in two days, and Hinata needed to get home so he could spend the next day preparing. Kenma figured he should probably do the same. The walk back to the station was silent and almost solemn. Once they approached a more private area of the city, Shouyou asked if they could stop for a moment.
"I…I'm sorry, Kenma. I'm the worst. I couldn't even talk when you said that. I didn't know what to do" Hinata spoke, trying not to tear up.
"Shouyou. You are not the worst. It wasn't right of me to drop that on you" Kenma countered, surprised to even hear the other say something like that. What surprised him more was the sudden hand he felt in his and the face pressed into his shoulder.
"I thought it was a joke because you found me out. I panicked. I didn't think it could be true" Hinata murmured. Kenma wasn't sure how to take that. On one hand, he was relieved to get an answer. On the other, offended Shouyou thought he would do that. Silly.
"Why?"
"I don't know. I'm sorry. I'm really sorry" Hinata repeated. They stood there for a moment, trying to gauge each other. Hinata then stood up slightly on his toes and kissed Kenma's forehead.
"You're silly" Kenma teased, placing a hand lightly on Hinata's cheek. He tentatively leaned forward and pressed their lips together. It was brief. It was awkward. It was them. It said a lot. It was more than he'd ever expected or let himself imagine.
They didn't want to miss Hinata's train, so they simply walked hand in hand to the station without saying another word. What a month. When Kenma told Kuroo about the incident, he immediately received a FaceTime request and was pried for more information. On the first day of classes, Kenma walked into Nekomata's office and said he would be captain.
"So how long did you have to practice with Hinata before coming around?"
"I'll tell you later."
