Even when the doctor had told Kagami that his injuries had healed enough and that he was now allowed to play again, he was once more reminded that he should be careful still. "Don't overdo it and you'll be fine Kagami-san." And so far he managed to do just so. He had played that promised one on one with Kuroko, the moment he had been given the green light, feeling so relieved to be able to play again. Kuroko was never a worthy opponent in a one on one however, it wasn't his strength, which left the redhead a little unsatisfied. The phantom kept reminding Kagami that he was supposed to take it easy anyway, so he should learn to adapt to a new, less intense, way of playing.

All of that was thrown out of the window when he stepped on the court, part of the miracle gang one step behind him, getting ready for their three on three. The usual electricity he felt in the air when he was about to face one of them, igniting the desire to overcome the massive challenge like it always had.

He was so concentrated that he didn't notice the worrying glances Amami was sending him before she threw the ball up for the tip off. He was dead set on getting that ball and unleash his frustration that had been building up ever since he was escorted off the court from that one fateful game in America.

After five minutes of playing vigorously, Takao started to realize he may have done something really bad by riling the man up. He should've known better, Kagami always had this tendency to let it all out when facing one of them, he really didn't need Takao to add more aggravation. This was going to be an overkill at the expense of his injury if he didn't calm down.

It wasn't only Takao that noticed the destructive way that Kagami was playing. They all seemed to give each other worrying glances when the redhead roared in victory with each overwhelming dunk or block. The term 'monster' came to mind several times.

Kagami had grown so much ever since he joined the NBA, which was to be expected. But this.. no, someone had to calm him down.

"I'd like to have a time-out." Akashi spoke up, wiping the sweat from his brows. He had been taking the brunt of Kagami's offensive plays since the beginning and it was taking its toll on the man. Not that much to request a time-out however, he just wanted Kagami to calm down for his own sake.

"What?! We've just begun..?!" Kagami's eyes widened at the strange request from Akashi.

"I wouldn't mind to take a small break either, nanodayo." Midorima joined his teammate without missing a beat. As a doctor he knew that this was bad for Kagami's shoulder. "Perhaps it's best if.. you took it a little bit easier, Kagami." Midorima was never good with beating around the bush, but the man really didn't want to test that bubbling fury by mentioning his shoulder.

"What the hell are you talking about? Have you guys gone so soft when I was gone?" Kagami smirked toothily, trying to taunt the men.

"Kagami-kun.. you're supposed to take it easy. Remember what the doctor told you, we're only trying to look-" Kuroko, the one who knew Kagami the best, tried to reason with his best friend. Seeing everyone becoming worried only strengthened his resolve to take the brunt that was surely coming his way.

"I am taking it easy!" Kagami interrupted his shadow with a loud growl before he was staring into a dead serious blank stare. The light blue eyes burning a calculating stare into him. He knew Kuroko well enough to know the severity behind that powerful stare of him. "Fine.. let's take a break.."

Kuroko nodded, not entirely happy with the man's attitude, but it was a small victory nonetheless.

The men all walked towards the bench where they had placed their belongings, making good use of the little break by drinking water or wiping some sweat away with their towels.

"Bunny-chan's so cool!~" Kotarou yelped out, waving his hand in the air to gain the redhead's attention.

Kagami chuckled at the enthusiastic display before his gaze dropped towards the woman holding the toddler firmly on her lap. She didn't seem to be as excited as the toddler. She was frowning when she looked at him until her gaze landed on Akashi, visibly letting out a deep sigh. His eyes narrowed when he followed the direction of her gaze and found the other, calmly talking with Midorima at the other bench.

"Kagami-kun, let's try a new tactic. Why don't you stay on defense and leave Kise to score, I'll be your invisible point guard." It was more of a statement rather than a question, still sporting that same severe stare.

"What and leave Kise to deal with Akashi on offense?!" Bristling at the mere thought of sticking to defense only.

"That's uncalled for, Kagami-cchi! I can manage just fine against Akashi-cchi. Besides, I've been itching to make some plays as well, you've been hogging the ball too much." Kise gave Kagami a very unusual stern glare. Not amused by the subtle insult the tiger threw at him, but also still worried that his friend will hurt himself if he kept the same pace.

Kagami groaned loudly and threw both hands in the air in defeat at the constant nagging of his friends. The motion sending a shot of pain through his shoulder, which made him slightly flinch. He immediately covered it up by ruffling his towel through his fiery locks, covering the small grimace his face showed. The pain adding more frustration on top of the pile he already had accumulated. 'I just got to win this..'

The only one who's been quiet the entire time, was Takao. His guilt seemed to have been eating him ever since the game had begun and somehow Amami had sensed something alike in her best friend. Perks of knowing each other since kindergarten.

"That idiot.." She murmured to herself, her gaze fixating on a too quiet Takao. She didn't know what her best friend had said to Kagami to trigger him, frankly she didn't care. She had asked him several times to give Kagami some slack, making him even promise to play nice and now she's witnessing how Kagami is pretty much losing his temper in a friendly game ever since he came back from the restroom.

Her gaze landed once more on Kagami, noticing his own frown. She knew something was wrong, making her want to run up towards the man to calm him down like she used to. But memories of their last encounter flitted through her mind. Confessing her feelings she still harbored after all those years during their fight over a silly Kaga-chan. Breaking down in tears in front of him afterwards when all the stress had finally bore down on her and eventually being held in his embrace once more. Kagami sought to comfort her, which was so effective that it made her want to cry even more. She needed him, more than she cared to admit but knew it would be folly and selfish to expect anything from the man now. She was already overwhelmed by the fact that Kagami wasn't angry with her, not minding to help her out. But could she really be satisfied with that? Remain friends while her heart pretty much screams it wanted more than that? Her train of thought thankfully got interrupted by Kotarou who flung his fists in the air excitedly, cheering for the game that had begun once more. Amami just managed to dodge the incoming pudgy fist.

"He's really into the game, uh?" Momoi looked amused towards the two Amami's next to her on the bench.

"Mmm? Ah, it would seem so.. Guess it's my own fault for letting him watch games on tv." Amami weakly smiled, shrugging at the inquiry of her friend.

"Or perhaps it's because he likes to watch together with his aunt." Momoi grinned when Amami gave her a mystified look. "Something tells me that your feelings about the game somehow rubbed off on him."

"I.. don't really think it's like that, he's just fascinated with anything flashy, I think.." Amami humbly spoke, softly caressing the short ginger locks of the toddler on her lap.

"Maybe you're right, but you can't deny that watching them play doesn't affect you. Call it woman's intuition and experience of my own." The pinkette smiled warmly when her gaze fell on her friends playing together.

Amami followed her gaze and somehow knew the woman was right about some things. It felt good watching them play, enjoying their time spent together playing ball. Nostalgic memories not so far behind, reminding them of the careless times in their youth together. She inhaled shakily, having forgot to breathe for a moment. "Perhaps.."

Meanwhile on the court it became more tense by the minute, unlike the women on the bench who were now chatting amiably. Ever since Kagami resorted to defense only, Akashi's team managed to make several points in a row. Fully taking advantage of Kagami's lack of offense, making consecutive shots. Kise managed to score as well, but not enough to stem the tide. The score, which was in the favor of Kagami's team before their break, was now ringing alarm bells in the redhead's mind when the others managed to overtake them.

"This is no good.." Kagami spoke to no one in particular. He stood in the middle of the court, watching as Kise's combo attack with Kuroko got blocked once more by Akashi. A scorching aura radiating from him as he took in a deep breath, calming his nerves. "We've got to win.."

The game felt like it suddenly ran in slow motion, he could see Takao holding the ball. Following his gaze to see what the raven-haired man would do. Would he pass to Midorima for their touch and shoot? To Akashi for more success chance against Kagami? Kagami noticed a certain glint in the point guard's eyes and his instinct immediately took over. In a flash he was in front of Akashi, slapping the ball out of his hands when the leather had managed to caress the receiver's fingers for merely a second. Taking everyone by surprise by the incredible speed and power when he entered the zone. Kagami made quick work getting around Takao, not even making the man break a sweat over it. When he managed to leave a stumbling Takao and slowly recovering Akashi behind him, he was facing Midorima, ready to defend. He saw everyone's position and immediately calculated the best attack. Not missing a beat he mustered all the power in his legs, pushing him in the air from the free throw line. Raising his hand in the air with the ball firm in its grasp as he was air-walking. His intense gaze zeroing in on the ring and Midorima jumping in order to block him. With all the power he could muster he slammed the ball from mid air in the ring, successfully pulling off a Meteor Jam. It was only when his feet finally touched the ground that a familiar surge of pain shot through his shoulder. Stumbling forward on his knee when he clutched his right shoulder, groaning loudly when said joint was screaming a massive objection towards the physical abuse the man put it through.

Amami's eyes widened with fear when she saw Kagami falter and clutch his shoulder. In a flash she managed to put Kotarou down safely before dashing towards the man on the ground. "Taiga!" Throwing caution to the wind she slid on the concrete right in front of him.

Through the haze of pain Kagami managed to look up slightly when he heard his given name being yelled by the familiar voice. Something he had longed to hear for god knows how long. The first thing he saw were the red and green gems in the pendant of her necklace hovering close in front of him.

"Don't move your shoulder.." She placed a soft hand on his cheek in order to calm him down and focus on her through his pain.

Feeling her small fingers caress his cheek, he immediately felt his heart thumping heavily in his chest. The pain subsided when he placed his own hand on hers, wide eyes staring in her equal panicked ones. "S-Seo.." He couldn't form a sentence, even if he tried. Not even bothering to call her by her last name either, even though she had told him to last time. She had done the same and it made his heart flutter.

"Amami, move aside please, I need to take a close look, nanodayo." Midorima softly pushed Amami's shoulder, a little reluctant to break up their sweet moment.

Her gaze immediately snapped up towards her friend which made her realize the position she was in. She nodded a little hesitant before moving to Kagami's side, leaving enough room for Midorima and an approaching Momoi to take a look at the redhead's shoulder.

"I don't see anything too bad right now, but you may want to pay your specialist a visit if the pain continues, Kagami." Midorima told him, after several minutes of thoroughly inspecting the man's shoulder.

"He's right Kagamin, I see you can still move your shoulder but that doesn't mean you can be reckless with it. It's best if you stop playing for now, give your shoulder a few days of rest, see what it does. In case the pain stays, you'll need to go see you doctor asap. Just remain calm and don't use it too much for now, in case something is wrong." Momoi gave her own specialized opinion after she had also done her own examination.

"But.. the game's not done yet!" Kagami halfheartedly breathed out, already knowing his friends were right and that he should listen to him. Too reluctant to 'admit defeat' due to his injury. He suddenly felt his hand being squeezed by the woman who had remained by his side. Still holding each other's hand unknowingly. He knew what she was trying to say even when she decided not to speak up. She was right, they all were. It still pained him to accept that he won't be playing his usual game anymore, he still needed to adapt. It caused him more pain than the injury itself did, he admitted. "Right.."

It's then that Takao approached the redhead on the ground, pulling two toddlers along in each hand of his. "I-I'm sorry, Kagami. This is all my fault, I shouldn't have said those things earlier. I just.." He looked at Amami for a moment before returning his gaze towards the ground once more. The sight so unlike the usual upbeat Takao they all knew. His look was distraught with complete shame and sorrow.

Kagami sort of understood what he wanted to say, he figured the man just wanted to defend his best friend. Hell, he had to admit he would pull off some weird stuff too if it was to protect his own friends, so he gave him a small nod as a way of showing he understood.

While Midorima and Amami were staring between Takao and Kagami, seeing how humble Takao had become, Kuroko and Momoi were throwing each other conspiring ones. Having fully read the situation and wanting to abuse it as much as they could.

"Kagami-kun, perhaps it's best to stay with someone for the night. You'll need help, now that you can't use your shoulder. I don't fully trust you to follow our advice if we would leave you alone now." He mustered the most plain gaze he could, eyeing Kagami and the rest of the group, hoping at least the others would understand what he was trying to do.

"Eh, what? I've been fine before, I'll be alright." Kagami uttered confused at the statement.

"No, that won't do, Kagami. I won't allow you to further damage your shoulder. I'll need you at your best once we settle our game." Akashi's crisp demanding tone rung, having understood Kuroko almost instantly. His gaze swiftly settled on Amami, who was still sitting next to Kagami on the ground. "Unfortunately I already have plans for tonight."

"I have an interview-ssu!" Kise beamed, not really bothered with covering a growing grin. For being a famous model he sure had poor acting skills.

"Kazunari.. and I are going on a date tonight, nanodayo."

"We are?!"

"Shut up, Kazunari.."

"Shin-chan~!" Takao exclaimed fondly, hugging his boyfriend tightly. His defeated aura instantly dissipating for glee at the prospect of going out with his lover.

"Ah, I guess I'll come over to your place Kuro-" Kagami spoke up.

"I'll do it!" Amami squawked perhaps a bit too brash before nervously staring at their hands still holding together on her lap. "I mean, if you don't mind.. I don't.. and Kotarou would like it too." She added, her voice slightly hitching as she rambled.

"We're counting on you, Amami-kun." Kuroko spoke up immediately, not giving Kagami time to say anything himself. "I'm sure you'll do everything to prevent Kagami from being brash." His usual poker face slid towards Kagami, his eyes showing a challenge that even Kagami wouldn't dare to accept.

"I'll help too!" Kotarou said, wriggling free from Takao's grasp as he gingerly placed his small hand on Kagami's good shoulder, softly patting.

Kagami's gaze changed from his friends over to Kotarou in front of him. Letting out a soft chuckle at the heart-warming gesture of the toddler. "Please take good care of me then." He inclined his head before glancing up towards Amami who seemed to be blushing furiously.

"They're so cute!~" Kise squealed excitedly, looking at the three sitting on the concrete. Amused by the two grown-ups blushing like teenagers and a very serious toddler trying to ruffle Kagami's fiery locks, his hand just out of reach.

Neither of them said anything, opting to look at anything else in a sad attempt to will their blush away.

"I'm glad that that's settled. We'll have to continue this game some other time to see who wins." Akashi noted, a gentle smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "If you'll excuse me, I'll be taking my leave now. I'd like to be in time for Nakiri's concert."

"Tell her we can't wait to meet her, Akashi-kun!" Momoi said, noticing Akashi's smile turn slightly bigger at the idea.

"I will. She would've come today, if it weren't for their rehearsal for tonight." Akashi explained while he was already gathering his belonging, seemingly very eager towards his evening with his girlfriend.

Kagami's eyes widened a little, his gaze switching between Momoi, Akashi and Amami. His brain slowly putting two and two together. The moment he realized they must be talking about Akashi's girlfriend, he felt his heart pleasantly flutter. The revelation slowly sinking, his smile turned into a soft scowl that was directed towards Takao. Casting him an accusing glare.

Takao of course had noticed Kagami's expression. Nervously scratching the back of his neck giving the redhead an apologetic look.


The three were in the elevator on their way towards Amami's apartment. Kagami had asked the woman to drop him off at his place first in order to get a quick shower and gather some clothes and unmentionables for his stay at her place. He kept asking himself how they managed to tumble in this situation. He wasn't complaining but it still seemed a little awkward since they never really spoke of what had transpired that one evening. He imagined the small break, not seeing each other, would have given both of them enough time to put their thoughts in order, grant them time to figure things out. Which he truthfully had been doing, or at least attempted. He had heard her when she told him she apparently couldn't let go of him, but wasn't entirely sure what that meant exactly. Did it mean that she was still harboring feelings for him or the opposite? Were the memories of what they used to have and how they broke up still preventing her to initiate a friendship? Is that what she wanted, a friendship? Which left him to struggle with more questions popping up.

What did he want?

He sort of knew what he wanted, he only needed to figure out how the woman was feeling, wait for that answer and then act on it. Which was easier said than done of course, for all the years they had been a couple he was sure he was still very dense when it came to matters of the heart. It still sometimes surprised him that they ended up as a couple to begin with, seeing how clumsy they were about it. The amount of years spent in America, focusing solely on basketball didn't help him either.

He had to be careful, not wanting to ruin whatever it was that had started to grow between the two of them.

When he looked to his left, taking in the sight of the woman cradling an asleep Kotarou in her arms, who seemed to have passed out at his place from fatigue, he was pulled away from his musings. The sight of the two felt so intimate and warm making him smile.

"He's really out of it huh?" He whispered as quietly as he could, even though all the noise from their trip from his place to hers hadn't managed to wake the toddler up. He didn't want to risk waking him up.

"I'm surprised he managed to stay up for so long, usually he'd be fast asleep around one o'clock." She whispered back, her head flicking towards the door when they arrived at her floor.

"Guess he really was enjoying himself today then." He spoke softly, checking his watch that showed him it was nearing three o'clock already.

"Yes well.." She softly chuckled when she pushed the key in her door, pushing it open before entering. "..anything for his hero, I guess." Giving him a small smile while toeing off her shoes. Wanting to place Kotarou in his bed quickly so she could tend to Kagami, which was the reason why he was even here to begin with, right?

"Who knew my number one fan lived in Japan while I was out there, huh?" He chuckled a little, not noticing her body to stiffen momentarily as she was carrying Kotarou to his bedroom.

A small pregnant pause hung in the air until Amami broke it. "Heh.. go figure." Letting out a humorless chuckle of her own that poorly hid her unease at the statement.

This, he did pick up on. Cursing himself mentally as he realized what he had said. "Shit, I mean.." He started nervously, realizing he was swearing in front of a kid making him fluster further, smacking his palm over his mouth and looking at the still sleeping toddler.

"Relax, Kagami, he didn't hear you." She gave him a smile that didn't entirely reach her eyes before disappearing into the bedroom.

'And we're back to 'Kagami'. Well played, idiot.' He thought bitterly, chastising himself on already having messed up the mood and they weren't even inside for five minutes yet.