Tobio walked happily by her side. Hands on the pocket of his coat, his eyes would avert, glancing at the accessory he placed on her finger. The ring that he bought made her more beautiful with her grandiose furisode and hakama. Her smile was a very effective filter in her face that he couldn't stop himself from grinning on his own.
Everything is not sudden.
At the young age of fifteen, Kageyama Tobio already decided he will not go to college and pursue the professional league. This is to make his goal of being on top of the world a reality. At the same time, he met Sawako.
It was his first time getting infatuated with someone. He never felt embarrassed or shy nor emotionally vulnerable in matters of the heart since his grandfather's passing that he fell deeper. What was once an infatuation at that time became something more with consistent gazes, recognition, and small talks. It turned to admiration until he realized that it wasn't the case anymore. He knew he loved her already for all the warmth and peace she brought to him.
At sixteen, he committed himself in a relationship with an intention to stay for the long term. Here, he experienced how hard long-distance was to him and his heart. The school wasn't the same without Sawako-san's presence.
Once eighteen, they began to live together and experienced the hardship of what it means to be together. They had banters of their own, they even had a disagreement where he felt the fear of losing someone again. They had intimate moments, intercourses, dead nights, compromises, and peaceful silence.
He even made it to the league and had his first season in professional volleyball as planned. When she reached her fourth year in college, that was when he decided he wanted her to use his name and make themselves official to the law.
And nineteen, Tobio found himself deeply connected with her. He ultimately became a man making love to his woman and began to understand how her body works. At the same time, he made it to the world.
Life was going well for the both of them despite their busy schedules. They love each other, their hearts beating as one and they're free. He didn't make her feel suffocated with his childish demands nor did he feel she was suffocating him with their already limited time. In fact, with her, he could take a breath and rest. She's his comfort person and great company.
When he's tired, she's there to give him a massage and prepare food for his muscles. When she's stressed and has broken down on a number of occasions, he would just play a random movie, forcing her to sleep just so she can relax. When he's being unreasonable, she would listen and will bring different reasons why to make him understand. When she's being ridiculous with her mood swings, he would just go along and let her come back to her senses. But what Tobio liked the most are moments when they don't talk and just work. No words shared as if they gained an ability called telepathy. She just knew and he'd know.
She's the best woman. He can't see a future without her by his side. Now in his twenties, he could say that he's already a successful person. His goals are on track. It was blooming well as well as their relationship that continues to grow and is full of promising buds.
He is now promised to the woman he loves.
That was why they are now on their way to the restaurant where her family and friends waited.
"Tobio-kun."
He turned, catching her softly giggling to herself. Amusement rose within him, finding it cute. Tobio raised a brow, encouraging her to speak her mind.
"Ah, sorry. I thought I made it clear earlier," she said.
Confused, he halted on his tracks. "What?"
She did as well and sighed. "I'm going to tell everyone some news, too. But you deserved to know it first."
He nodded in understanding. Tobio watched her excitedly fished out her phone from her pouch, scrolling and swiping, her eyes lit up on something until her lips formed into a smile. He got intrigued.
"First…"
She showed him the screen of her phone. It was an email.
"Remember the nights I wrote for a children's book?"
He nodded. "The story about the girl who had her hair cut short and complained because she turned into a boy?" Of course. Finishing it in a day was one of those days where her emotions were at peak, she celebrated for her success.
"Yes, yes." Sawako-san nodded excitedly. "I actually submitted the manuscript to a publishing company last year and last Christmas, I received this!"
Huh?!
Tobio began to read:
[Dear Harukaze Sawako,
Greetings!
We are pleased to inform you that we are accepting the story of "The Girl with a Boy-Cut Hair" to be published. We have received your manuscript and had it checked. It is a pleasure…]
His eyes widened. "Publish?!"
She nodded enthusiastically. Suddenly, she looked apologetic. "I already went and met up with the editor and illustrator last January and…. and they're going to be out in bookstores next week."
Tobio owlishly looked at her. He was sure that he heard her right. Sawako-san's going to have a published book? And all things happened without his knowledge, behind his back, her secret while he had seen her write the whole day. He felt butterflies in his stomach all of a sudden. Her achievement caused a sudden uplift in his spirits.
"That's… amazing…" He muttered. Holy shit. He couldn't believe it. She has just graduated an hour ago and she already got herself a name? It was indirectly challenging him. Damn it, I can't be left behind. "Will they come out fine?"
She grinned. "Oh, they're lovely. They sent me a… Oh! I brought the copy, y'know!" She exclaimed, clutching on his hand. "I put it in Kicchan's bag."
How cute. Her eyes sparkled in delight. Her smile has not left her face once she started talking. Sawako-san is prettier when she's being like that.
Then, she paused. Her habit of playing with her hair appeared and he became aware that her second news is different. He waited.
"… and second…"
She tightened her hold on his hand. Curiously, Tobo wondered why she brought it close to her stomach and laid it there with a small smile. He didn't get what she meant aside from the light growl that vibrated in her.
"You're hungry?"
She blushed. "I am. But that's not the point." And she sighed. "Tobio-kun, I… I'm going to be a mom."
He incessantly blinked.
"… and you, the dad."
A beat.
I love you, daddy.
His heart began to race. What? He's a daddy? A father? And she's a what? A mom? HUH? His head began to feel light. "Oi… what do you mean by that?"
Sawako-san bit her lip. "It means I'm pregnant and we're going to be parents soon, dummy."
He stared. His mind buffers at the words she said.
I love you, daddy.
A shade of red seeped out from his cheeks; he knew it covered his face. Earlier, when she called him daddy, he thought she was calling him names from the movies she watched; being the vocal lover she is. But it wasn't. it was not an endearment but a new role for him to commit.
He's… "I'm going to be a father?" he couldn't help but whisper. A child.
Sawako-san slowly nodded. "Yes." She pressed his hand on her stomach.
Asking how will sound stupid. He's not that dumb. Tobio knew the consequences of their sexual intercourses without contraception. They may have gotten lucky in the first months but it's… bound to happen with their regular sessions.
Absent-mindedly, he traced the roundness of her stomach. Tobio was still in a trance of surprise. His child. "S-since when? How long?"
"Six weeks."
His eyes widened. All this time, she was already carrying another life. Huh?
"Valentine's?"
"The days after Valentine's."
Another blush. He remembered that so well. He remembered asking for a massage that night but they ended up doing it again. He may have gotten his rest from dominating but it didn't stop her from taking his place. That day, huh… She wore something that night from her references he still wouldn't dare watch.
"I see." He nodded. A smile slowly etched on his face. His heart, still beating loudly. He took her hand that wasn't holding the bouquet and slowly, Tobio locked his arms around her.
Family. He and Sawako-san's going to have a family of their own. A baby is slowly forming in her, it shall be born after almost a year that has his blood and hers mixed up. A creation from all that lovemaking they did. A symbol of their bond and their love. He never thought of this before, but now that it exists…
Tobio let out a shaky breath. "Thank you, Sawako-san…"
He's happy.
Kageyama Tobio, twenty years old, he's engaged and is an expecting father. At the age of twenty, things are going well for his love and life.
Telling the news to her family and college friends was amusing.
"A baby?!"
It was a conundrum of reactions. Miki-san cried and began to talk to Sawako-san about the baby. Hitori and Kirin were speechless while Suzaku said his congratulations. The gals began to gush with Miki-san in which the twins followed and decided to crowd his fiancée. The other men, however…
"Heh~"
Tobio turned to the snake man who was with them. Suguru-san smirked at him. "You must've been a good performer in bed."
"Seriously? At least congratulate him first." Semi-san sighed before turning to him. "Congrats, buddy."
"Congrats," Tsubaki-san's younger brother, the middle blocker he played against in his first and second year, Taichi-san said.
Tobio said his thanks with a nod.
"It's my way of congratulating him." Suguru-san turned to him. "It's your turn now but we're going to have one."
He blinked. Eh?
"Hey, now. Are you trying to compete with babies?"
"What? I have plans to make a family of my own, Semi-kun."
"Is Mika-chan even ready?"
"Hm? I heard my name. What is it?"
Suffice to say, dropping the news to her family and friends was amusing.
HINATA DON'T DIE
04/05/17 Wed 12:58
King uploaded a photo of Sawako's hand and ring.
Manager-san: (ﾉ)ﾉ ﾐ ！
Manager-san: She said yes! OMG. Congratulations, Kageyama-kun!
Mamaguchi: CONGRATS KAGEYAMA!
Manager-san: Are we going to celebrate?
NaCl: You're actually getting married?
King: Thanks Manager-san Mamaguchi.
King: NaCl I am.
NaCl: Waah. The king is romantic. How lovely.
King: Your sarcasm is not needed.
NaCl: You know sarcasm?
TANgerine: WOW! What's with this new flood?
TANgerine: NICE Kageyama! You're gonna be a good husband to senpai.
TANgerine: It's all because of me.
NaCl: What you only did is to tell her sisters.
TANgerine: Shut up, NaCl. Kageyama wouldn't get engaged if I didn't help him back there.
Mamaguchi: Technically, it was Yachi-san who mentioned the engagement.
Manager-san: (・_・;)
NaCl: See?
TANgerine: Shut up.
King uploaded a photo of a "Baby in Me" badge.
Manager-san: (_)
Mamaguchi: Σ(・口・)
TANgerine: WHAAT
NaCl: Good luck.
Manager-san: A baby Kageyama! A baby Kageyama!
TANgerine: You're pregnant?
King: Idiot.
Mamaguchi: Wow. This is big news. Congratulations!
Manager-san: I can't believe you're engaged and a father…｡ﾟ(ﾟ﹏ﾟ)ﾟ｡
Manager-san: We really should celebrate.
Mamaguchi: Yes, yes! We should!
King: Thank you.
NaCl: Do what you want.
TANgerine: Celebrate with them for me, NaCl!
NaCl: Why would I do that?
TANgerine: Because I'm so far away!
NaCl: Not my problem.
Mamaguchi: Why are you even awake, Hinata?
Mamaguchi: Isn't it like 12AM there?
Tobio closed the app and turned off his phone. He sighed, brow twitching at the normal exchange of an angry tangerine and mocking yellow bean pole or at how Yamaguchi began to act as their mother again.
After eating lunch with the Harukaze family and her friends, they all parted and went home. Miki-san became overprotective of Sawako-san that they all went back home with them, and the triplets followed.
"I don't have much to say. You eat a balanced meal and you don't smoke." Miki-san sighed. "Just don't drink alcohol. Tea, more tea." She turned to him. "Tobio-kun, don't let her."
He nodded. "Yes, ma'am."
Sawako-san narrowed her eyes at him. He stayed his gaze on her soon-to-be mother-in-law.
"Also, as papa, you have to be informed and should know what to do. Going to the hospital with her for one, Tobio-kun."
Hospital… He nodded once again. Tobio doesn't have experience with children nor has any idea what pregnant women underwent through the admirable phase. There's going to be a lot of things to do, huh. He glanced at her and smiled to himself. Tobio won't deny that he's excited about the baby. It's his, it's hers. It's theirs.
Are they going to have a girl or boy? Will they be like him or her? Obviously, she will be a good mother. Am I going to be a good father?
Ah. He has yet to tell his side of the family about the news. His parents, both doctors, obviously have a lot of things to tell him about that area. He has a lot to talk with Sawako about this, too. Now that she has graduated, what will happen to her now?
That night, when her family left to go back home, Tobio, unable to contain the questions to himself, decided to talk it out.
"Hey," he said and approached Sawako-san sitting on the bed.
"Hi," she looked and closed the book she was holding.
"What's that?" He raised a brow. Her lips turned into a smile and she giggled. She showed him the front cover that says: Maternity and Child Health Handbook. He blinked. She's… surprisingly prepared.
There was a thought that bugged him since she told him the news.
"How did you find out?" Was it recent? Since when did she get the badge and the handbook?
Sawako-san hummed. "When I didn't get my period, I got very anxious. So, I bought two pregnancy tests," she answered. Her hand began to reach for the drawer, pulling it open, and took something.
Tobio accepted the two sticks in hand with matching two red lines.
"I guess I got excited and went to the hospital alone. That's where I got the badge. It's apparently for pregnant women to indicate that I am pregnant because I don't have a baby bump yet." She tapped her tummy twice, beaming at him.
Heh… "That's convenient.
"It is. I can be prioritized because of this. Transportation, waiting line, elevator, stuff like that."
He hummed in understanding. That could help especially when she's alone. Although it's not yet noticeable, she still has to be careful. The badge is a good thing. He raised another question: "Will you still be wearing that if it gets big?"
She pinched his cheek. "Don't call your child it." Then, she tapped the reddened cheek. "Of course. It's a good souvenir for our first baby."
He nodded. "What will you do now?" She raised a brow. "Are you going to teach soon?"
Sawako-san opened the handbook. She flipped the pages until it landed on some sort of column of calendars. March was highlighted until November. "Pregnancy occurs for nine months. I could get my license but I think I won't be able to teach immediately." She said, "I'll apply for a part-time job in a nursery for practice on how to handle children. At the same time, I'll continue to write more books."
He blinked."
"How's that sound?"
"You're… ready." Why does it feel like she doesn't even need my help?
She giggled. "It's our baby. Why wouldn't I?"
Red dusted his cheeks at his words. Indeed, it is theirs. She's amazing. He had a feeling that they'll have an eventful year rearing the child until its birth. Nine months is long but…. It would probably feel like it's going to be quick. The years he spent with her felt like yesterday even though they've been together already for four years.
He scoffed, mentally agreeing to her words. Even though he's not the one pregnant, he could continue his routine like normal. But as an expectant parent, he ought to be prepared as well. Since his lover is surprisingly ready, Tobio could only think of supporting and helping her in times she's in dire need. Like any other day, through the years, but this time, it'll be because they're going to have a child soon.
"And… where will you stay?"
Her brows narrowed. "Here. Of course, here. As long as I can move, I'll stay." She pouted. "Why? You don't want me here?"
He immediately shook his head. "I was just thinking… maybe you have to go home or something."
"I'll go home when I have to." She smiled. Much to his surprise, she pecked him in the cheek. His heart went wild and happy. "You're cute when you're concerned.
Tobio flicked her nose.
The next day, Tobio went home to Sendai with Sawako-san. The woman was ecstatic the whole ride to tell the news not only to his side of family but to the Ukai's as well. Compared to her family, the Ukai's were surprisingly okay about it.
"About time for the family to expand." The legendary Ukai said after they spilled the beans.
"What do you mean by that? They're still young." Ukai-san slammed his fist onto the table. Red coated his cheeks at the fact that his cousin is carrying another Ukai-Harukaze and now, Kageyama for six weeks already.
"Young? There's no shame in being a young parent. I had your father when I was nineteen. Kaguya, your grandmother, was sixteen, then. Besides, you should get yourself a girlfriend, weakling."
"But that was your time. You don't have smartphones at that age."
"This and that are different. What matters is our Sawako's going to be a mother and I'm going to have great-grandchildren." The old man chuckled. He took a swig from his small cup of sake, celebrating already on his own about her granddaughter's pregnancy.
Ukai-san, however, looked reluctant. Tobio squirmed at his sitting position, as he stared back at his previous team coach's stare. He has never seen Ukai-san that much since he went pro. Aside from catching a glimpse of his figure when the man's working in the store and he's back in town, he would normally see the man during family reunions or holidays.
Ukai-san sighed. "It's no joke, alright. But once you're already on maternity leave, Kaa-san and I will gladly offer to help."
He nodded. As I thought… She has to go back home.
"Alright, Tobio! Have a drink!"
For the first time, Coach Ukai offered him a cup of sake. Which, he accepted.
As for his side of the family about her pregnancy and engagement…
"Seriously?!"
He glared at the disbelief written on his older sister's face. "What?"
"A baby…. With your face."
"What's the problem with that?"
He heard Sawako-san snorted by his side. His parents were on the same wavelength, hiding a smile from behind their hands.
"What?" He couldn't help but ask. He felt left out.
They shook their heads, making him raise a brow narrowed at the secrecy between them.
"Well, moving on!" His mother clapped her hand once. All of their attention was on her. "I know it's early but Sawa-chan, have you decided where you are going to do your delivery?"
He cast a glance at the lady in question. He took off a glass of juice from the table and calmly took sips of the real pulp of orange that stuck on the glass.
"Oh, I haven't yet," Sawako-san answered. "It'll probably be in the hospital here in Sendai, Reika-oba."
His mother nodded. "Then I'll notify a colleague about that. when are you due?"
"Thank you very much." Sawako-san shyly glanced at him. "November."
"November, huh. Hey." Nee-san looked at him. "When are you getting married?"
"Huh?"
Tobio looked at Sawako, back to his older sister then to his parents.
"Wedding." The older man repeated.
A blink.
Wedding…
"Hm? You haven't thought of it yet?"
He glanced at Sawako-san, finding her eyes as it looked back on his. Then, she immediately smiled at him before turning to them.
"Tobio-kun and I haven't yet. Our focus as of now is the baby."
He did say that they'll do it at the right time but the question made him actually think. They'll get married someday anyway, what's the rush? But when will it happen someday? They're going to have a kid soon and they're going to be a family – of their own.
Ah. Will Sawako-san use his name or retain her Harukaze family name? Although, it's fine to him if she'll keep hers it's different when she changed her name to Kageyama Sawako while the kid will bear his name.
"Ah…" He blurted.
Suddenly, all eyes were on him.
"Is something wrong?"
Tobio shook his head. "Nothing."
Just now, a name came to mind. Its meaning reminded him of what she called him. His role in her life since they met, she said. Normal couples, especially expectant parents, like to name their child based on how lovey-dovey they were, don't they? Tobio can't find a reason not to use the name he just thought.
Sawako-san's exactly the same as that word.
Tobio glanced at the woman beside him. Sawako-san was laughing at the words told by his mother and older sister. With just that smile, she's able to make him feel warm and fuzzy.
"Tobio."
At the call of his name, he turned. His father, standing by the doorframe, has a serious look on his face. A hand gestured for him to come closer. Curious at what his father had to tell him, he stood up and walked towards him.
Immediately, a big hand landed on top of his head, and gently, the Kageyama patriarch ruffled his hair.
"Treasure her." Tobio looked at him. "Be there for your child as I should've been more to you, understood?"
Tobio nodded.
The news reached his upperclassmen not too long after that. His phone almost blew up from messages of shock, surprise, disbelief, and congratulations mainly from his high school team. His colleague in Adlers caught wind of the news and (Tobio suspected that Hinata told Miya-san who then told Hoshiumi-san and then the rest), congratulated him as well. Romero-san, the world ace from Brazil who now plays for Schweiden Adlers, was delighted at the fact that: "It seems like I won't be the only father in the team."
Father.
That's what he is now. Not too long ago, he's just an adolescent that was misunderstood, alone, and unable to express his feelings and thoughts properly. Now and in the coming ten years, he'll have to understand another adolescent of his own going through phases similar to what he had.
And so, his participation in her pregnancy started when they went back to Tokyo the very next day.
[WEEK 7]
Sawako-san, he noticed, started to frequent going to the toilet. Early in the morning, Tobio could hear her gag as she emptied her stomach. Once, twice, the toilet would flush and she would sob.
"Are you alright?" He asked, seeing her pale complexion.
Sawako-san weakly smiled. "Will be. This is just a symptom."
"A symptom?"
"Morning sickness. Nausea and vomit. It comes along with my body adjusting to the baby's growth."
"I… I see." That… sucks.
He watched Sawako-san begin to take out ingredients from the fridge, humming a tune to herself as if she didn't just hug the toilet for ten minutes. But one thing for sure, he better read her handbook some time to be informed.
As she mentioned, the release of her book took place within the week as well as her licensure examinations. He's bothered by her pregnancy symptoms but he's been (forcefully) assured that she'll be fine. He did see her book displayed in a bookstore near the training place and it was… cute.
She also started working in the nursery called Sunrise Nursery that can be found near the train station.
"Gah." Her face turned green, lifting a piece of broccoli with her chopsticks.
"You don't like it?" He raised a brow. It was rare for her not to eat anything. As far as Tobio could remember, she eats whatever ingredients he placed including green, leafy vegetables.
Sawako-san placed the broccoli on his plate. For some reason, tears were in the corner of her eyes. "Your cooking's fine! But I… I don't think I can eat broccoli anymore." Sawako-san forlornly continued to eat her vegetable salad but it made him think that he really had to read the handbook.
But much to his dismay, her handbook only has information on what she should eat, tips on what to do with back pains, swollen feet, tests she'll have to go through every appointment, the sizes of the embryo and fetus through the weeks and her schedule of prenatal visits. There was even a list of alphabetical names for baby girls and boys.
Tobio couldn't get any information on her symptoms until one day, in [WEEK 8, she began to complain.
"Tobio-kun!" She called.
He immediately turned to her, eyes widening, and blush covering his cheeks at her sudden display of half-nakedness. "Oi! Wear a top!"
"Why're you shy all of a sudden? First time?" She raised a brow, the smile adorning her face.
"Are you mocking me?" He narrowed his eyes on her.
She just smiled and went to their wardrobe as if she didn't prepare a set of clothes before going to the shower. His eyes twitched when she ignored his question and watched her bring out different tops.
"What's wrong?"
She was pouting as she buttoned her blouse, pausing halfway, and taking the blouse off before wearing another. Three were done, she began to rummage the rest of their closet, looking for clothes. She sighed, turning to him. Her hand began to cup her breasts and he blushed at the movement.
"I think… my boobs got bigger."
"Huh?" Bigger? He looked at her chest. They looked… the same.
"I can't wear these blouses anymore."
Sighing, he helped her look for something loose to wear. She said, blouse. But in the end, she opted to wear a maxi dress.
[WEEK 9]
Making a baby is hard work, that's what Tobio learned from the week that passed. Every day is a no broccoli day but with each difference, they'll find that her new change of taste began to dislike a number of things. One came to surprise him that she disliked sausage. In response to her changes, Tobio had to adjust to her sudden cravings as well.
Sawako
04/18/17 Tue 16:22
Sawako: 2 boxes of ginger tea, 2 packs of whole grain crackers, 1 big box of cheese… please?
Tobio: Sure.
Tobio: Will that be all?
Sawako: Are you sure about that question?
Tobio: Yes, why?
Sawako: Then…
Tobio: Okay.
Sawako: 3 packs of strawberries, 2 cans of condensed milk, 1 jar of pickles, 2 packs of natto, matcha mochi, peanut butter, grilled salmon from Salmonero-san, 3 tubs of different flavors of ice cream, 6 cups of Jelly, and any brand of 2 potato chips.
Tobio stared at her new message.
"That's… long." A chuckle erupted from behind.
He turned and found, "Romero-san…"
The man smiled at him. "Sorry for reading, Tobio-kun. Is she in a craving craze?"
He nodded. "It seems so."
His phone beeped.
Sawako: You don't have to buy them all!
Romero-san chuckled, reading her newest chat and Tobio sighed. How can he not buy them when she gave him the list?
She'll get mad at me if I don't…
Tobio: No, it's okay.
Tobio: I'll buy them.
Sawako: （；へ：）
Sawako: I'll make spicy curry for dinner, okay?
Tobio: Okay. d(•͈ _•͈ෆ)
[WEEK 10]
He knew some of her cravings are not healthy but as his mother and Miki-san reminded both of them, her cravings are satisfied in moderation. Her list may have continued and Tobio has no plans to stop her demands despite a few cravings that have make him fall in line. At the very least, he evaded buying food in the middle of the night, unlike Romero-san.
It was this week that he found Sawako-san looking at herself in the mirror. Her smile shone, taking a selfie and sending it to group chats with her friends.
And that was when he noticed.
Her lower abdomen showed roundness that wasn't there before. He could mistake it as the consequences of her pigging out but the blue lines that crisscrossed through her breasts and abdomen said otherwise. For Tobio, it looked like Sawako-san's in a war protecting their child.
[WEEK 11]
It was time for Kurowashiki. It is a volleyball tournament held annually every May in Osaka. The league he's part of, Schweiden Adlers, is going to participate with the intention to win as champions. They knew full well that MSBY Black Jackals, appeared to be their greatest rival now that it's where Bokuto-san, Miya-san, and Sakusa-san went.
Due to her part-time job, Sawako-an couldn't watch the game. It's a week without her and Tobio made sure that she won't be alone. Mae-san, the landlady. Helped him in this situation and became involved with her pregnancy.
They won anyway.
[WEEK 12]
"Tobio-kun…"
"Yes?"
"Help me?"
He eyed the shaver in her hand and nodded. Sawako-san sat on the small stool and he did the honors of sitting before her.
Slowly, she placed her legs close to him, and with the shaver now in his hand, Tobio did the deed. He carefully grazed the blade on her skin, wrist moving in a motion to remove the growing hairs in her legs.
"Will you come to the hospital with me?" Sawako-san asked.
He paused, looking up at her from her legs. "Sure, why not." And went back to shaving her legs.
She smiled. "It's about time, too."
"Of what?"
"To hear the baby's heartbeat."
He paused, washing her legs with warm water, and smiled to herself. "I see." He took her other leg and began to shave her leg hair with his heart speeding up in delight.
They went to the hospital with Sawako-san frequently wearing maxi dresses because of her noticeable belly. It's his first time in her number of prenatal visits that it was a surprise to find a national athlete as Kageyama Tobio was accompanying someone pregnant.
It didn't matter to him then but the heartbeat that sang when the doctor showed the screen for her ultrasound. It was as if their baby was saying, "Tou-san!"
[WEEK 13]
Sawako
05/15/17 Mon 13:20
Sawako: 2 unscented pantyliners, please.
Tobio: (ヘ )ゞ
[WEEK 14]
It's the start of her second trimester when Tobio did something for a change. It is an activity where men, he heard from his colleagues, dislike: Shopping.
Although he already shopped with Sawako-san before: buying appliances on her first move and grocery shopping when they began to live together. He never thought that it would come to this.
"Excuse me, do you have an F size of this design?"
"Yes, ma'am. It's… in here."
"Oh! Thank you."
He never thought of the day where he'll find himself inside the department store in the women's section, joining Sawako-san in her hunt for new bras. She did complain and he finally noticed, too, that she's in need of bigger cups. He just… didn't expect this.
[WEEK 15]
"What do you think our baby will be? Boy or girl?"
"Can you tell now this week?"
She shook her head. "Not yet. So, take a guess."
"Girl."
"Woah, quick response. Why?"
"Because you're eating a lot of strawberries and girls like strawberries."
She laughed. "How cute."
"Yeah? And your guess?"
"Boy."
"Why?"
"I want some mini Tobio-kun with an angry face sucking on a volleyball."
"H-How did you know about that?!"
"Shhhh! You'll wake our neighbors, Tobio-kun."
"Don't ignore the question!"
[WEEK 16]
"Anata no koe ga michishirube. Ichiwa no tori ga naite iru. Namae no nai sora ni watashi o sagashite. Yasashi-sa de amitsuzuketa yurikago de asu e iko. Hare no hi moa me no hi mo. Anata o Mamoru tame ni."
Tobio has heard her singing the same song throughout the day. He didn't ask nor wonder why she's been stuck on the same song like a broken recorder. He just let her while she creates some worksheets for the children in her part-time job.
[WEEK 17]
HINATA DON'T DIE
06/11/17 Sun 14:10
Manager-san: I met Sawako-senpai today! She's in her book signing event.
Manager-san uploaded a photo: A selfie with Sawako and her book.
Manager-san: Her tummy is really round! (ﾉ)ﾉ
Mamaguchi: She's glowing. I'm going to buy her book soon.
Mamaguchi: King Manager-san Did the baby kick?
Manager-san: Not yet. But she's expecting soon.
TANgerine: your baby better not act like you, Kageyama!
Manager-san: I think he's still in training, TANgerine.
Mamaguchi: I'm excited to see the baby for some reason.
Manager-san: Me, too!
King: She's going to be a princess.
[WEEK 18]
KAGEHARU
06/21/17 Tue 12:13
Sadako uploaded a photo: Tobio sleeping in her lap.
Kicchi: I want to touch your belly soon!
Hitorin: Did she kick him?
Suchaku: She?
Tobiyolo: Sawako-san just farted.
Sadako: Tobiyolo you're supposed to tell them, the baby's starting to kick!
Sadako: She's a he Hitorin!
Sadako: Feel free Kicchi.
[WEEK 19]
Compared to a week before when he laid his head by her growing tummy, this time around, it really happened.
It was warmer because of summer. He and Sawako-san were back at Sendai, opting to just laze around their living room. His head was on her lap, trying to sleep while her fingers caressed his scalp and humming a tune she used to sing weeks prior. But suddenly, she paused. Her hand that was on his head was gone and found itself on top of her big tummy. He immediately sat up upon seeing the pained look dawning on her face.
As quick as it came, it was gone in a flash and she smiled brightly at him.
Hm?
She didn't say anything but reached for his hand. He was suddenly brought back to the time she told him that she's pregnant. Confused, curious, he waited for her to say something as his hand landed on a spot in her stomach.
"What?"
She was just smiling and he was getting sleepy. But it happened.
It was small, quick, and faint, he could miss it if he's not sharp. But it happened.
He blinked, surprised.
"It hurts when he does that." She laughed.
"He's a girl." A hearty breath escaped her lips, amused at the second kick he received from the little human inside.
[WEEK 20]
And he was right.
[WEEK 21]
There was a sudden change in her behavior lately. Her weekends at home were spent with Miki-an, Kaede-san, Miwa-nee-san, and his mother so frequently that even on her weekdays, she would talk to older women even before going to sleep. Her face was always laced with concern that it was starting to worry him, too.
Her body is full of stretch marks from her stomach, her butt, her thighs, hips, even in her already big breasts. She looked like she ate a big watermelon now and even though she doesn't voice it out, she dislikes the cramps in her leg.
Tobio did everything he could. He accompanies her in their daily thirty-minute walk around the neighborhood every night, buys the stuff she needs for her symptoms and craving, and massages her shoulders and feet every now and then.
"Tobio-kun, can we talk?"
For some reason, his heart began to race. He nodded, patting the space beside him where she later sat.
"What's it about?"
"I… thought a lot about it and I don't want to worry you." She started, although she's already making him worry. "I'm going to leave my part-time job before my third trimester starts. I talked about this with Mama and Reika-san, so…"
He nodded in understanding. "You're going home."
"Ah." She blinked. "You knew?"
His brows narrowed. "I told you about this before. Besides, Ukai-san offered help and they live closer. They can assist you."
"Oh."
Huh? "Is this what has been making you worry?"
She nodded.
"I told you, it's fine."
"But aren't you going to miss me?"
"Why? You're not going to go back to working at your part-time job?"
Sawako-san shook her head. "I'm thinking of teaching in Sendai."
He blinked.
[WEEK 22]
PAPA KAGEYAMA!
07/16/17 Sun 10:51
Manager-san uploaded 3 photos: Yachi touching Sawako's tummy. Yamaguchi touched Sawako's tummy. A selfie of Yachi, Yamaguchi, and Sawako with Tobio in the background in her last book signing event.
TANgerine: I WANNA TOUCH TOO!
NaCl: You can't and will never be able to.
TANgerine: Stingy! Are you even the father?
King: It's because you really can't/
TANgerine: Even you? (੭ ̣̣̥ ㅂ̣̣̥)੭ु
Manager-san: Senpai is due this November, TANgerine.
Mamaguchi: Meaning, the baby's already born when you're back.
TANgerine: Eh? Is that how it works?
TANgerine: Make me the godfather then!
King: No.
King uploaded a photo: of Hinata Natsu touching Sawako's tummy.
TANgerine: Even Natsu, too?!
[WEEK 23]
Sawako-san took her maternity leave, resigning from the nursery she worked at. Tobio sees her with the kids for the first time as they see her off with a small party. She said she wanted to experience firsthand how to handle children that range from three months to five years old. Seeing her there, amidst the thin arms and small hands of children, Tobio was moved.
[WEEK 24]
"I wonder what she will call you? Tou-san? Oyaji? Papa?"
He blushed.
Papa sounds nice.
[WEEK 25]
KAGEHARU
08/08/17 Tue 9:19
Mamamiki uploaded a photo: Sawako in her bare bump holding a volleyball.
Miwan: I can't wait!
Mamareika: Tobiyolo Are you trying to take charge and mean to tell us that our sweet potato is going to play volleyball?
Tobiyolo: Not really.
Papakazue: "Not really," he said.
Suchaku: You okay with this, Sadako?
Sadako; Of course! I'm looking forward to our future wing spiker.
Miwan: HAHAHAHAHA
Tobiyolo: Setter.
Sadako: Wing spiker.
Tobiyolo: Setter
Kicchi uploaded a photo: of Sawako and Tobio sitting side by side on their phones.
Sadako: WING SPIKER
Tobiyolo: SETTER
HItorin: LIBERO!
Sadako: No
Tobiyolo: No
Miwan: HAHAHAHAHA
Suchaku: HAHAHAHHA
Papakazue: HAHAHAHAA
Hitorin: That's alright. Reject me all you want but Libero and pinch server are available for slots!
[WEEK 26]
"Megumi."
"Ah…"
[WEEK 27]
It was their last night together. Tomorrow, they will be picked up by Suzaku. They talked about their leave with Mae-san the other day and the kind lady fully accepted their reason for transfer and prayed their best wishes for her delivery.
Tobio took the day off and packed their stuff so he could help.
The apartment room will no longer be theirs; it is now open for vacancy and rent. As per Sawako-san's request, they left behind a few things they bought together such as the bed as a memory of the time that Sawako and Tobio once shared the room together.
Starting from this week, Tobio will have to go back and forth with the trains. He insisted he'll go home with her while Sawako-san will stay back at their residence. They have to clean her old room to add space for her belongings from Tokyo. He received permission from both sides of the family to stay over to sleep.
No other reason but Tobio found the baby's heartbeat comforting.
[WEEK 28]
The baby likes to kick a lot.
Sawako-san has been making faces (that Hitori joked was his face) and has been having trouble sleeping at night. It made him wonder if their little girl's really going to be a wing spiker or setter. Nishinoya-san has kicked the ball a few times in their matches, has he not? Even Hinata received the ball with his foot.
"What's wrong, Kageyama? Father woes?"
He shook his head. "Not exactly, Hoshiumi-san."
The new little giant pushed his back while he reached for the floor, legs spread apart for their flexibility training. "How's she doing?
Tobio released a breath. "Fine. She's doing a hospital tour in Sendai with Ukai-san."
"Ukai? She's related to Karasuno's coach?"
"Her cousin, yes."
"Really? That's amazing."
[WEEK 29]
Varnish.
That was the first thing he smelled when he entered the residence of the Harukaze. The yard smelled of varnish and there were scraps of wood.
"I told you, it should be round."
"It is round."
"It is not round enough."
Tobio stared at his two upperclassmen bickering. "Sawamura-san, Sugawara-san, hello." The former captain and vice-captain of Karasuno were trying to build something like a crib.
"Ah! Kageyama, you're here. Tell Daichi to make the edges a little round."
"Don't mind him, Kageyama. Every baby's crib is rectangular but the edges are round for safety purposes." Swamura-san said, casting a smirk in the vice-captain's direction. The older man patted the wooden crib that was almost finished. "What do you think? Looks neat, right?"
He eyed the wood. "It is ." How practical of Sawako-san. "Thank you for helping, Sawamura-san, Sugawara-san."
The two men smiled. "Anything for our nagging Sawakaa-san and cute Kouhai."
Tobio nodded, grateful.
The smell of varnish lingered in the air until the morning came.
[WEEK 30]
Ten weeks are left and everyone is excited. New adjustments have been made in the Harukaze household for the baby's arrival. The crib that his senpais built, the rubbers in every edge of their furniture and wall that Suzaku attached, the plushies Kirin brought, and teethers that Hitori bought have been prepared. Although the latter was a little early for a newborn.
Tobio still trains and chose not to take his "paternity leave". Even then, he would find himself buying snacks and breast pads while she's being crowded every day by the people they care about. Tsubaki-san, Hana-san, and Mika-san would drop by as if they didn't have jobs to attend to. Once, Azumane-san appeared and the two ended up crying.
Tobio never asked what happened.
[WEEK 31]
Nine weeks left and…
"Tobio-kun, will you please scoot to the side a little?"
He cracked an eye open and obliged. "Is this fine?" He asked after moving an inch.
She nodded. "Yes, thank you," and sighed.
Nine weeks left and she's having trouble sleeping like any other day. He's getting concerned at the noticeable bags under her eyes that fade every time she smiles. The culprit is none other than their little girl that likes to tap and squirm her way inside Sawako-san 's womb.
Tobio sighed. He turned his body, leaning on to his left as he faced Sawako-san. His head laid on top of his bent arm. Without a word, his hand reached out to her hair. Her eyes immediately snapped open, sleepy and tired.
"Go to sleep." He caressed her hair, just as she does with his whenever he sleeps
Sawako-san smiled and closed her eyes. Thankfully, she fell asleep not too long after that as if the child within her had been told to sleep as well.
[WEEK 32]
Eight weeks left and Tanaka-san and Shimizu-san got married.
Tobio attended the wedding ceremony with the others, accompanying Sawako-san with her round belly hiding beneath her maternity dress. His senpai, bold and tenacious, finally got himself with their senpai the wing-spiker adored for years. It didn't turn into a surprise for the setter that this will happen but he's happy for the older man nonetheless.
It was then, he began to think of marrying Sawako-san soon. Their child should not be born in unmarried couples after all. Their little girl deserved better.
Sawako
09/20/17 Wed 10:03
Sawako uploaded 2 photos: ultrasound.
Sawako: I think I'm going to write another book.
09/20/17 Wed 12:16
Tobio: What's it about?
Sawako: My letter to her.
[WEEK 33]
Seven weeks and he could feel the excitement and anxiety of three houses. Will the baby arrive in due time? Perhaps early or late? It's the last week of September and in less than two months, they're going to have a little human crying and calling for her parent's around the house.
But despite their anxiety, Sawako-san was different.
Sawako
09/26/17 Tue 13:23
Sawako: I finished the book!
Sawako: I'm going to call the manager and perhaps we could publish this.
King: I thought that's a letter for the baby.
Sawako: It is.
Sawako: But I couldn't stop writing and decided to dedicate this to her instead.
Yes, Sawako-san is indeed different. She's more excited than them.
[WEEK 34]
"Will you please pass me the soy sauce, Papa Tobio?" Hitori smirked.
He raised a brow at the name and silently took the bottle of soy sauce at his side. He passed it to the smirking blonde before proceeding to eat.
"Get yourself a boyfriend."
"As if you have a girlfriend, Succhan."
Sawako-san smiled. "Papa sounds nice."
He ignored the blush that rose to his cheeks and finished his omelette.
Six weeks left.
[WEEK 35]
PAPA KAGEYAMAAA!
10/13/17 Fri 3:18
TANgerine: It's about time, isn't it?!
TANgerine: natsu called me and she was there?
TANgerine: AT SAWA-SEN'S?
TANgerine: SEND PICSSSS
TANgerine: King!
Tobio glared at his phone (Stupid Hinata) and glared at the time: 3:19 AM (Chatting so early in the morning.) before trying to go back to sleep. He snuggled closer to the already sleeping Sawako-san, softly sighing in content.
But his phone continued to beep.
Natsu
10/13/17 Fri 3:20
Natsu: Sorry if nii-san bothered you at this time, Tobio.
Damn Hinatas.
[WEEK 36]
"I think… I want to stay pregnant."
"Huh?"
"Let's have another child."
[WEEK 37]
Three weeks left and her hospital bag is ready.
[WEEK 38]
Two weeks and she's complaining about pelvic pain. His mother told him that it's the baby's head pressing to prepare her exit. As a result, Sawako-san's beginning to show early signs of labor and just to be safe, she stayed at the hospital until their most awaited arrival.
He felt lonely in the bed, suddenly unfamiliar with the comforter he slept in his eighteen years of living. It was the nights he spent sleeping beside her that made the bed spacious when it wasn't the case before.
Two weeks left and he could feel his anxiety heightened. He would find himself visiting the room where she stays in the hospital after training and before going home.
[WEEK 39]
Holy shit.
[WEEK 40]
Training had ended and he was preparing to go home. Despite sleeping back at home, anxiety managed to linger in the air so that he had to calm himself down. It is her last week and any day now, the baby will be born. He will start a new role of parenting and he's anxious whether he'll do great. Even now, he's still trying to calm himself.
He took a deep breath and silently released it through his mouth. Again and another before opening his phone. He was unaware of the bomb ticking that he paled as soon as he read the messages.
KAGEHARU
11/11/17 Sat 18:15
Hitorin: THE BABY IS COMING!
Hitorin: OMG OMG
Hitorin: Tobiyolo WER R U?!
Mamamiki: Where is Sawa?
Hitorin: AT THE DELIVERY ROOOOM!
Hitorin: AAAAAAH
Hitorin sent a voice message.
Hitorin: OMG.
His eyes widened and began to reread what it was about. He hates it when Hitori uses uppercase, it hurts. But his heart started to race and his hand began to shake. Tobio tapped his phone, clicking to go back to the menu of chats, and clicked another.
DADDY KAGEYAMA
11/11/17 Sat 18:17
Manager-san: She
Mamaguchi: Is
Manager-san: Coming!
Mamaguchi: (ʘᗩʘ')
Manager-san: Kageyama-kun's a daddy now. ( Ĭ Ĭ )
TANgerine: Daddy kaegayama!
TANgerine: Kageyama*!
Manager-san: Daddy Kageyama!
Mamaguchi named the group chat to DADDY KAGEYAMA.
He exhaled and closed his locker. Casually, he slung his bag on his shoulders and turned to the team coach. "I… I'll be going ahead, Banjo-san."
The man nodded. "Are you okay, Kageyama-kun?"
He nodded. "… Yes."
"Oh, thanks for the hard work. Best wishes to your wife."
Amidst the confusion and curiosity of and about his wife, Tobio excused and left. His mind began to race, hurrying himself to get on the bus to go to the train and go home. The baby is coming? Like right now? Holy shit. Really? For real?
But the bus has not yet arrived, Tobio decided to run despite his phone about to burst at the chats about her delivery.
KAGEHARU
11/11/17 Sat 18:45
Hitorin: HURRY UP Tobiyolo!
Tobiyolo: IM ON A FUCKING TRAIN ALREADY.
Mamamiki: Language!
Tobiyolo: Sorry.
Tobiyolo: Please, keep me updated.
Hitorin started a video call.
Tobio immediately plunked his earphone and joined. It showed the hospital hallway filled with people he knew. Yamaguchi and Yachi were there with Hitori. Miki-san was caught in the camera and he saw her wearing a lab gown and entered the delivery room while he could hear Sawako-san's exclaim of pain.
Tobio's heart race and blush formed his cheeks, he never wished for the train to run faster on the railings.
Her shouts continued and it was taking so long. He never thought that giving birth takes a lot of time that it was longer than volleyball matches he had. Hitori kept the call ongoing throughout his ride and one earbud attached to his ear so he can hear what's happening.
Tobio ran outside when the train stopped at Sendai station. People made way for him, probably noticing his rush, and he made it through the city outside where he ran once again to JR Sendai Hospital which he was thankful was nearby.
Alas, he made his way inside and he rushed.
"What floor?"
[Fifth floor.]
And he used the stairs rather than the elevator. Less than five minutes was all it took him before he finally reached the waiting area where he found Yamaguchi and Yachi, praying earnestly.
"H-H-He-Her water broke!" Yachi exclaimed upon seeing him. "Waaaaah~ Kageyama-kun!"
He blinked. Yamaguchi later told him that the two of them visited Sawako-san about the book when her water broke. Yachi, in her first time encountering a pregnant woman, panicked and started to cry. She was currently being comforted by the only blonde Harukaze.
Now, waiting, Tobio slumped onto the chair and waited, he didn't realize he fell asleep.
"Hey, hey."
Tobio opened his eyes slowly. Groggily and sleepy, he blinked incessantly to gather his bearings. Miki-san's face was what he first saw and he immediately stood up. It took him a moment to realize that he was in the waiting area and was supposed to wait for their baby.
"You're awake now, Papa?" The older woman asked, smiling.
A beat.
He nodded. "How… Sawako-san?"
Miki-san softly smiled. "She's back to her room, feeding the baby."
He blinked.
"Let's go? She's been waiting."
Only then did Tobio realize that he was the only one left. He stood up and tried to pick up his bag but found none. "Where…?"
"Yamaguchi-kun and Yacchan already went with your bag. They're inside."
Softly sighing, he followed his soon-to-be mother-in-law. He was led into another hallway, on the same floor. He looked around, unable to grasp the situation in his surroundings. The pregnancy, her labor, the baby… it was crashing onto him so suddenly that he's yet to believe that a baby is born in their family. Perhaps, he's still asleep and needs more time to rest.
But stopping in front of the door and Miki-san opened it after three knocks, he could hear the familiar voices of his former teammates and the laughter of his lover. And he gaped.
Sawako-san looked tired but content in her bed. She was sitting, head resting on a pillow, her round stomach was gone and flat while her arms were cradled on a bundle of cloth. Her bluish-green eyes lit up upon seeing him and he was immediately graced with her smile.
His heart raced.
"You're awake." She said and glanced below.
He nodded in Yachi and Yamaguchi's direction, the two who looked like a couple in his eyes silently gave him a thumbs-up, mouthing the word "Congratulations" as he approached Sawako-san. Tobio sat on a chair and nervously, bit his lip. He never knew his legs could shake that much.
"I…"
Was it tears slowly clouding his eyes?
"Hush. Look at her." She whispered. "Isn't she pretty?"
Tobio did as he was told, finally noticing that her hospital gown was slightly opened. A little blurry, he saw a small turf of black hair and a small face. Eyes closed, small nose, a toothless mouth began to suck on her nipple and he found threads of milk trying to escape the clumsy sucker. But suddenly, those eyes opened, and oh… Oh... She is lovely. she had his eyes.
His vision only blurred to extremes, he couldn't see the little human anymore.
"Congratulations, Tobio-kun." Sawako-san hummed.
He released a breath and wiped his eyes. "You… You did a great job, Sawako-san." He tried to smirk at her but failed. His cheeks started to hurt as well from… smiling at their little joy. "… What about her name?"
She smiled. "Megumi."
A beat.
Tobio nodded in understanding. It means blessing. He beamed. From him to her, from her to him - a blessing.
"Hi, Megumi."
As if knowing it's her name, the baby began to reach for him.
notes:
My heart hurts writing this. I apologize for the delay. I never thought I could make it this far, so posting the last chapter - YES, LAST CHAPTER - is too much for me. I almost want to skip the day and start doing my backlogs but nah. I truly appreciate everyone who followed and favorited this fanfic! Without you, I wouldn't be able to finish updating the story and I wouldn't be here crying because it's over. I had fun writing tho, especially coming up with Tsukishima's nickname HAHAHAH
But don't worry! I have yet to upload the Epilogue and two short stories about what happened years later. Bonus chapter or something. Huehuehue, I made Kageyama a daddy. Skskskskssk and yeah, it's Fushiguro Megumi.
aivenir: She said she watched porn and Tobio saw her watching a Kdrama. Thank you so much! I really don't want to think of THIS almost to the end but it teared me up a bit. I never thought so, too and I'm grateful for your part in this journey. Thank you very much!
bbymojo: /shares tissues with you l IM MORE EXCITED WITH THE BONUS CHAPTERS. I hope you'll like them. Thank you, huhuhuhu.
I love you and see you next week!