Lupine
Disclaimer: I do not own Haikyuu!.
Warnings: Hurt/Comfort, Drama
Pairings: Hinata x Bokuto, Bokuto x Akaashi, Akaashi x Kuroo, Hinata x Kozume, Hinata x Miya Atsumu, Hinata x Miya Osamu, Hinata x Miya Atsumu x Miya Osamu, Haiba x Yaku, Kozume x Kuroo, Kuroo x Tsukishima, Kuroo x Bokuto, Kuroo x Akaashi x Bokuto, Sugawara x Sawamura, Iwaizumi x Oikawa, Sugawara x Sawamura x Iwaizumi x Oikawa
Plot: Bokuto spends time with Akaashi. Kozume meets Tsukishima and Yamaguchi.
Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics
Ch 09: Affirmation
Bokuto perked his ears towards the Alpha that answered the door, dipping back his ears a bit and offering him a small, nervous smile, glancing past him into the interior of the townhouse. "Hi! I umm…" He rubbed at his nape, asking sheepishly, "...is Akaashi home?"
"You must be Bokuto." The Alpha smiled, nodding and allowing the taller Alpha to step past him. "Keiji and Koushi are in the living room." He pointed past the shadowed foyer, Bokuto giving him another smile and following his directions, perking his ears towards the sound of laughter as he reached the edge of the living room.
Akaashi was there, standing beside another pretty omega, the smaller omega reaching out and touching his arm lightly before letting out a happy sigh and returning to the illuminated shelving before him. He was watering the plants before him carefully, taking his time to examine each one, Akaashi leaning a little closer and nosing at the pastel blossoms of one of the potted plants nearby, glancing up towards Bokuto when he realized he was being watched.
Bokuto was breathless, blushing faintly and offering the dark-haired omega a small smile, dipping back his ears and exhaling shakily, the Alpha who had greeted him before stepping past his side. The smaller omega noticed his approach, then glanced past him to Bokuto, smiling and turning to set aside his watering can before walking closer, offering his hand and greeting cheerily, "It's nice to meet you, Bokuto. I'm Sugawara Koushi." He glanced towards his bonded, offering, "This is Sawamura Daichi."
"Nice to meet you." Sawamura said softly, perking his ears up and glancing towards Akaashi, the dark omega still standing where he was, sunlight dappling his shoulders and dark hair, his eyes never leaving Bokuto.
Sugawara noticed this as well, humming softly and returning to his companion's side, reaching out and touching his hand lightly. "Keiji?"
"I'm alright." Akaashi whispered, one of his ears tilting towards the other omega. "I just wasn't expecting…" He stepped towards Bokuto gingerly, blinking up at him and tilting his ears towards him curiously, a small smile turning up his lips. "You've grown, haven't you? You're quite a bit taller than Tetsurou now."
Bokuto blinked at that, chuckling softly and dipping his ears back a bit, rubbing at his neck absently as he offered, "Yeah, I guess you could say I've grown a bit in the years since we last saw one another…" He glanced towards Sugawara and Sawamura, then returning his gaze to Akaashi, asking quietly, "Did you want to talk here? Or…?"
Akaashi thought to himself for a moment before catching Sugawara's eyes, the omegas holding each other's gaze before Sugawara smiled and nodded, perking his ears towards his mate. "I think Daichi and I will go up to the balcony for a while." He offered the quiet Alpha his hand, Sawamura humming softly and lacing their fingers, allowing Sugawara to lead him away as the omega called over his shoulder, "It was nice to meet you, Bokuto! We'll be right upstairs, if you two need anything."
"Nice to meet you too." Bokuto called back gingerly, waiting until the couple's footsteps faded away before returning his eyes to Akaashi, dipping back his ears a bit and waiting to see what the omega would do or say next.
Akaashi watched him quietly for a long while, taking in his change in height, his nervous demeanor, the way he kept shyly glancing aside. This wasn't the Alpha he remembered. The Alpha he had known in high school had been loud and outgoing, boisterous and energetic, always laughing, always reaching out to Akaashi and Kuroo, more than happy to share his scent and warmth. This Bokuto was anxious and reserved, quiet and unsure, Akaashi letting out a soft breath before taking a step back, tilting his head towards the couch gingerly.
"Shall we sit?" He asked, and Bokuto nodded, waiting for the omega to find a seat first before tentatively taking a seat beside him.
Bokuto was quiet, watching Akaashi nervously for a moment longer before taking a breath and opting to speak, starting hesitantly, "I'm not sure how to tell you this without it potentially being awkward for us both, so I wanted to start out by saying that I don't want to make you feel uncomfortable in any way, and if I say something that causes you distress it isn't my intention. I don't want to make you uncomfortable in your own home, or upset you accidentally." He glanced away briefly, taking his time to take a deep breath before smoothing his palms against his knees, fiddling with the broad logo sewn into the fabric across his thigh absently. "I understand if this is difficult to listen to, it's hard for me to talk about as well." He looked up, searching Akaashi's eyes, then asked tentatively, "Would it be alright if I…" He ducked back his ears, continuing softly, "Would it be alright if I touched you?"
Akaashi tilted his ears back slightly at his request, blinking for a moment before glancing away, replying softly, "I'm not sure if I'm comfortable with that, if I'm perfectly honest."
Bokuto nodded and gave him an apologetic smile, laughing nervously and saying quickly, "No, no I understand. I'm sorry. I just wanted to...to soothe you, but I won't touch you. I promise." He pulled back his hands, leaning back a bit and resting against the arm of the couch, closing his eyes for a moment and beginning quietly. "There isn't an easy way for me to explain this without talking about what happened that night."
He looked to Akaashi again, his brow pinched, his words careful and slow.
"When we started making out, and touching one another, it was the first time I had ever…" He blushed and bit his lip, admitting shyly, "It was the first time I had ever felt my knot start to swell." He rubbed at his wrist, trailing his fingers over his palm. "I'd...I'd touched myself before, but it wasn't the same. Being around you, tasting you, taking in your scent, it was all just...more than anything I had ever imagined. I didn't know, I wasn't expecting-" His breath hitched, and he paused to collect himself, his blush steadily growing as he whispered, "I didn't realize that I would hurt you, Akaashi. I'm so sorry. I never would have done so intentionally if I had realized what would happen."
Akaashi watched him quietly, taking in his body language, mulling over his words before asking hesitantly, "You're saying you think knotting me for the first time was the reason it happened?" He tucked back his ears a bit, glancing away, thinking. "I've never...experienced anything similar to what I experienced with you that night since. Being with Tetsurou has never hurt like that. It's incomparable. Taking an Alpha's knot…" He met Bokuto's eyes again. "It isn't supposed to be painful, not like that. Not on such an extreme level."
"I know." Bokuto replied softly, nodding his agreement, perking his ears up a little as he tried to explain. "The reason why...it was different is because…" He bit his lip again, exhaling roughly and confiding quietly, "I'm not full lupine. I'm mixed. I have...different characteristics than Tetsurou. I didn't realize it at the time, and I didn't know what to call it until just recently, but I understand now that I have barbs." He searched Akaashi's eyes, one of his ears tilting to the side as he asked, "Have you ever...heard of that term before?"
"Barbs." Akaashi repeated quietly, Bokuto nodding his head, the omega frowning a little and blinking as his eyes trailed across the living room wall, thinking for a few moments before replying, "I thought that barbs were only present...in feline Alphas?"
Bokuto nodded, letting out a soft breath and saying, "I'm glad you've at least heard of them before. I never had. I thought for years that there was something wrong with me…"
Akaashi watched him, his expression indiscernible for several long moments, then he leaned a little closer, asking hesitantly, "Will you show me?"
Bokuto immediately flushed crimson, watching Akaashi with wide eyes, stammering quickly, "A-Akaashi, I don't know if I can-" He shivered and searched the omega's eyes, his voice dropping a bit as he whispered, "I can't just show you. It takes time…" He let out a peal of anxious laughter, his ears tilting to the side then back again as he tried to force out the words, to help Akaashi understand. "I have to be aroused for them to start to show, you can't really tell when I'm not worked up. The closer I get to...to completion, they start to flare and become prominent. I could barely show Shouyou, I can't-"
Akaashi reached out, touching the back of Bokuto's hand, the Alpha going very still and watching him, worrying his bottom lip between his teeth. "Please?" Akaashi asked softly, searching his eyes. "I need to see, to understand for myself. I want to believe you, I do. I just don't know…" He arched his brow a bit, adding shakily, "I can't picture it in my mind, to make sense that that's why our first time together was so…" His voice trailed off, his eyes dropping, letting out a soft sigh and withdrawing his hand. "No, I'm sorry. I shouldn't have-"
"Okay." Bokuto said gently, the omega looking up and meeting his eyes. "Okay, I can...I can try to show you. I just don't know if I can work myself up enough to show you properly…"
Akaashi held his gaze a moment longer before nodding, glancing up briefly before standing from the couch, starting towards the hallway on the opposite side of the living room, beckoning for Bokuto to follow. The Alpha hesitated but gradually pushed himself up, shoving back his anxiety and following after the omega, walking behind Akaashi as he continued down the hall then turned into a dimly-lit bedroom, waiting for Bokuto to enter before closing the door behind them.
Bokuto perked his ears towards the string of multicolored lights pinned above the windowsill, the star-shaped lights illuminating the darkness in a slowly-changing rainbow, the colors reflecting off of the frosted glass and scattering prisms across the entire room. He watched them for a while, blushing faintly before returning his eyes to Akaashi, asking tentatively, "Does Tetsurou realize those are the star-lights I bought you for your birthday?"
"No." Akaashi whispered gently, his expression softening as he gazed up at the Alpha. "He doesn't know, and I couldn't bring myself to throw them away. I cherish them. They were my first present from you."
Bokuto smiled and nodded, ducking his head lightly, the omega reaching out to him and taking his hand gently.
"Will you show me? Please?"
Bokuto nodded, glancing over and padding towards Akaashi's bed, sitting down on the edge and reclining back a bit to get comfortable, looking up at the omega with a hint of nervousness before offering, "Do you want to turn on the light? So you can see a bit better?"
Akaashi hummed at the suggestion, nodding, stepping over to the nightstand and flicking on the lamp, casting a warm glow across the bed and highlighting Bokuto's large frame, the Alpha shivering lightly and closing his eyes, slowly starting to unfasten his belt.
Akaashi made no move to approach the bed, watching the Alpha's movements silently as Bokuto pushed his jeans down over his hips, breathing shakily and palming himself through his boxer briefs for a few lingering moments before dipping his hand beneath his waistband, wrapping his fingers around himself and starting to stroke lightly. He licked his lips, trying to think of Hinata, trying not to focus too much on what he was doing, remember his boyfriend's scent and taste, the little sounds he liked to make when he was being teased and licked, the way it felt when Bokuto pressed inside of him. His breathing started coming a little faster, and he shifted to push down the waistband of his underwear, freeing his cock, wrapping his fingers around himself once more and canting his hips forward into his palm, a soft little groan escaping him as he rested his head back.
He felt the mattress dip slightly, tensing nervously when he realized Akaashi had drawn close, the omega reaching out and smoothing a palm over his chest, soothing him gently. His ears were perked up curiously, his eyes on Bokuto's hands as he followed his slow movements, the Alpha breathing out shakily and continuing to stroke his cock.
It took a while for his cock to fill, trying not to feel too awkward at being stared at so intently, shivering beneath Akaashi's hand as he petted across Bokuto's chest gently, silently coaxing him on. The Alpha moaned softly, reaching down to wrap his fingers around his knot as he gradually started to swell, his other hand still stroking along his shaft lightly, waiting to feel the catch of his barbs against his fingers, blinking up at Akaashi and watching him with hazy eyes, the omega glancing up and meeting his gaze.
Bokuto's breath hitched and he felt his cheeks grow hot, searching Akaashi's eyes, his movements growing a little quicker as he rubbed along the underside of his knot and jerked his cock with steady strokes, his breathing getting ragged as precum dripped down his shaft, slicking his movements. Akaashi watched him with a soft gaze, the omega inhaling and blushing lightly, parting his lips ever so slightly as he took in Bokuto's scent.
Bokuto gasped and whined softly, panting as he fought back the beginnings of a growl, still holding Akaashi's gaze as he started to tense. He could definitely taste a hint of Akaashi's sweet slick in the air.
"Kaashi." Bokuto breathed, the omega inhaling softly and shivering at his tone, leaning a little closer and biting his lip, his cheeks completely flushed.
"Does that feel good?" Akaashi whispered, Bokuto's brow arching as he nodded quickly, the omega shivering and whining out softly as he inhaled again, closing his eyes and basking at Bokuto's thickening scent, trailing his eyes down his body and fixating on his cock once more. He reached out and brushed his fingertips along Bokuto's wrist, the Alpha canting his hips forward desperately as he locked his fingers around his knot, moaning and gliding his fingertips across his tapered tip and his risen barbs, finally pulling back his hands so Akaashi could see.
The omega leaned closer, his eyes widening as he took in the sight of those textured barbs, perking his ears up and reaching out tentatively, Bokuto whining and stopping his hand, whimpering softly, "T-They're sharp…"
"I understand." Akaashi whispered, reaching out again, carefully gliding his fingertips up the underside of Bokuto's cock and watching the way the Alpha's pulse caused his cock to twitch, leaning closer as his arousal bobbed against his fingertips, carefully pressing his fingers along those tiny, clustered barbs.
Bokuto whined, closing his eyes, trembling as the omega touched him, taking in everything Bokuto had to offer, trying not to shift his hips even the tiniest amount, laying perfectly still as Akaashi continued to explore.
"Does it hurt when you touch them?" Akaashi asked breathlessly, perking his ears towards Bokuto, the Alpha meeting his eyes and shaking his head.
"N-No, no it doesn't hurt…" He wrapped his fingers around himself again, stroking his cock slowly, his fingers gliding over the barbs easily as he teased over his cockhead then stroked down again. "I think it's because...I know what they feel like, so I know how much pressure to use to avoid cutting myself?"
"Hinata?" Akaashi asked curiously, Bokuto blushing and laughing a bit, humming softly and tilting one ear to the side.
"He's eager to try to take them, but we haven't done much together yet. I'm afraid of hurting him…" He sighed shakily, searching Akaashi's eyes. "I never want to hurt anyone the way I hurt you ever again. If I hurt Shouyou like that, I couldn't-" His breath hitched and he closed his eyes, whining softly as he whispered, "I'm so sorry. I'm so sorry I hurt you. I didn't mean to, I didn't know-"
"Shh…" Akaashi whispered, laying down beside Bokuto and curling up against his side, the Alpha sniffing softly while Akaashi pressed his cheek against his shoulder, starting to purr quietly, his expression affectionate and soft. "I believe you. I trust you. I'm sorry, about everything that happened between us. I was scared, and Tetsurou was only trying to protect me." He searched Bokuto's eyes, whispering hesitantly, "Can you try to forgive us for the way we treated you? All this time, you've been hurting because of what happened…" He glanced down, trailing his fingers against Bokuto's chest, tears glinting in his eyes. "Just as I've been hurting and trying to heal, you've been hurting too."
"Kaashi…" Bokuto whispered, leaning closer and nosing between his ears, inhaling softly against his hair and smiling gently, closing his eyes and nodding. "There's nothing to forgive. I made a mistake and hurt you, Tetsu made a mistake and pushed me away…" He kissed Akaashi's crown, whispering gently, "I'm just so grateful, so happy that you agreed to speak with me. I…" He ducked back his ears a bit, the omega glancing up and meeting his eyes. "I really, really missed you. You and Tetsurou, both. You mean a lot to me." He carefully tucked himself back into his boxer briefs, sighing shakily and rolling onto his side, asking gently, "Is it okay if I hug you?"
Akaashi smiled, laughing softly, nodding and reaching out to wrap his arms around Bokuto's neck. The Alpha blushed and smiled brightly, chuckling and wrapping Akaashi in his arms, hugging him lightly, careful not to press against him too closely while he was still half-dressed. They parted a few moments later, Akaashi sitting up a bit, blushing and glancing away from Bokuto while asking, "Should I give you a few moments alone, to…?"
Bokuto blushed crimson and laughed, clearly embarrassed, the Alpha sitting up as well and shaking his head. "No, no I'm good. I'll y'know...take care of it later, with Shouyou." He grinned and carded his fingers through his hair, slowly winding down and glancing up towards the lights dancing across the ceiling, feeling more relaxed than he had in ages, a serene sense of calm and relief washing over him in tangible waves.
Akaashi watched him quietly, smiling softly, his purr still resonating through the quiet room. They may never quite feel the same way they did before, when they had been in love in high school, but now that everything had been said they could start rebuilding their friendship and discover together how their feelings might grow.
In the living room, on the couch, Bokuto's phone buzzed as it vibrated against the seat, slowly sliding to the floor and vibrating a while longer before going dark, a missed call flashing across the screen.
A message appeared a moment later with a picture attachment, a closeup of Hinata and Kozume's hands, the caption nothing more than two heart emojis beneath their matching rose gold and silver rings.
-x-x-x-
Kozume and Hinata walked hand-in-hand away from the metro, quickly walking across the busy streets towards the restaurant on the opposite corner, Kuroo perking his ears up as he watched their approach. Hinata was beaming from ear to ear, Kozume smiling as well, the Alpha crooning curiously and tilting his ears towards the bubbly omega, asking teasingly, "Well look who's here! It's nice to see you again, Hinata. Did Kozume invite you to join us for dinner?"
"Not exactly." Kozume sighed, Hinata giggling and biting his lip, holding the beta's gaze for a moment longer before offering his hand to the Alpha, Kuroo glancing down briefly before his eyes widened.
"We're bonding!" Hinata cheered, Kozume smiling fondly and lifting his hand as well, Kuroo examining their matching rings and laughing brightly, pulling them both into a tight hug.
"Oh wow! Congratulations! I'm happy for you!" He chuckled and perked his ears up, glancing around for his friends. "Here, let me introduce you." He beckoned the betas closer, gesturing to the tall blonde that came to stand at his side. "This is Tsukishima Kei, and this-" He gestured to the shorter freckled boy beside him, "-is Yamaguchi Tadashi."
"Nice to meet you." Yamaguchi smiled, signing as he spoke, his words thick and slightly slurred as he glanced up to Tsukishima, revealing a hint of the cochlear implant hidden beneath his dark olive bedhead, watching his friend expectantly.
"Nice to meet you." The tall beta said softly, his words a bit muffled as he mumbled, but his tone decidedly clearer than Yamaguchi's. The betas turned to one another, meeting eyes and signing back and forth for a moment before Tsukishima looked up to Kuroo, saying quietly, "Are we adding one to the table?"
"Two! If Bokuto gets my message!" Hinata smiled, blushing and meeting Tsukishima's golden eyes, the beta perking his ears up slightly.
Kuroo glanced between them, smiling and saying, "If you're speaking to Tsukki or Yama, try getting their attention first. It makes it easier for them to read your lips."
Hinata blinked, nodding quickly, smiling up at Tsukishima and saying cheerily, "It's nice to meet you! My boyfriend might be coming, can we save a seat for him too?"
Tsukishima nodded, Yamaguchi watching their exchange with a friendly smile and dipping back his ears slightly before returning to his conversation with Tsukishima, the betas signing back and forth as they made their way to the hostess to change their table request. Kuroo smiled fondly, watching them go, Kozume stepping a bit closer and tilting up his face, Kuroo leaning down to kiss him gently while petting along his side.
"I'm sorry I didn't mention I was bringing Shouyou." Kozume apologized quietly, Kuroo humming and shaking his head.
"No, really! The more the merrier!" He grinned and glanced towards Hinata, chuckling softly. "Besides, it will be good to spend more time with Kou. I was wanting to ask him about meeting up again."
Hinata watched the Alpha with a little smile, blushing lightly. "I had a really nice time with Akaashi and Sugawara today. Oh, and they introduced me to Oikawa too! He's such a sweetheart!"
"That he is." Kuroo crooned, smiling and reaching out to ruffle Hinata's hair, the omega giggling and swatting at his hand, perking his ears up again.
"Have you heard anything from Akaashi? Do you think he's still with Kou?"
Kuroo nodded, glancing back towards the entrance to the restaurant, "I should think so, especially if Koutarou hasn't called you back yet." He retrieved his phone from his pocket, sending a quick text, returning it to his hoodie and watching as Tsukishima and Yamaguchi turned to wave at them, Kuroo waving back quickly and gesturing for Kozume and Hinata to follow.
The waitress took them to their table, Kozume and Hinata sitting together while leaving a chair empty at the end for Bokuto, Kuroo taking a seat beside Tsukishima across from the empty chair, Yamaguchi sitting across from Kozume and giving him a little smile.
"Tetsu told us about you!" Yamaguchi said, signing as he spoke, Tsukishima perking his ears up and watching their conversation, Kuroo and Hinata exchanging menus to begin picking out appetizers and drinks. "Is this your friend?"
Kozume nodded, smiling and looking towards Hinata before returning his eyes to Yamaguchi. "My best friend, and my boyfriend." He replied, Yamaguchi's smile widening, the freckled beta nodding his understanding, looking to Tsukishima next.
The blonde was quiet for a moment, then signed as he started to speak, "You're his boyfriend? I thought we were waiting on his boyfriend to arrive?"
Kozume nodded, offering a smile and replying patiently, "Shouyou is dating us both."
"I see." Tsukishima hummed, perking his ears towards Yamaguchi, the freckled beta signing for a moment, exchanging back and forth with Tsukishima, before they returned their attention to Kozume.
"How many partners do you have?" Yamaguchi asked slowly, careful to try and enunciate as he watched Kozume closely, still wearing that same open, friendly smile.
Kozume thought for a moment, one of his ears twitching, "Aside from Shouyou and Tetsurou, I have two others." When Yamaguchi smiled and nodded, Kozume continued. "They are my roommates, two beta vulpines."
Yamaguchi made a soft sound of awe, grinning and nodding before gesturing at Kozume, signing to Tsukishima briefly before looking to Kozume again. "You're vulpine too, aren't you?"
"I'm mixed." Kozume offered, smiling and glancing between the two other betas. "I have vulpine genetics, as well as feline and lupine."
"Tsukki is mixed too!" Yamaguchi laughed eagerly, the blonde watching them quietly, nodding briefly when Kozume caught his eyes. "He's quarter feline, while I'm pure feline." Yamaguchi reached out and gestured towards Kozume's face, tracing the air lightly before he withdrew and signed to Tsukishima, then turned and said to Kozume, "Your facial structure is very beautiful! It's rare to see such characteristics, even in mixed breeds!"
Kozume laughed softly, blushing lightly and glancing between the two betas. "Thank you, that's very kind."
"Tetsu's greatest weakness is a pretty face." Tsukishima mused quietly, the Alpha growling softly and leaning closer to nudge his shoulder playfully, the blonde smirking and casting his gaze towards his friend, Kuroo nuzzling at his ear briefly before he looked up and offered Kozume a smile.
"Hinata and I were thinking about getting drinks since we took the metro tonight. Do you want to order something?"
Kozume hummed thoughtfully, Hinata leaning closer and handing him the drink menu while pointing out a few cocktails, the beta tapping at one he liked before tilting his face and offering Hinata a kiss, the omega purring softly and kissing him back gently.
Yamaguchi watched them with a soft expression, glancing up towards Tsukishima, noticing the blonde was watching them as well. He caught the taller beta's attention, signing quickly, [They're cute together, aren't they? They're both so petite!]
[They're tiny. I can't believe Tetsurou is fucking this one. I'd be afraid he might break.]
Yamaguchi smiled before snorting softly, rolling his eyes and returning his gaze to Kozume and Hinata, noting the bubbly omega was saying something, Yamaguchi holding up his hand briefly and asking for him to start again.
Hinata blushed lightly, ducking his ears back a bit. "Oh! I'm sorry!" He gave Yamaguchi an apologetic look, then repeated his previous question. "Did you two want to order something?" He gestured to the drink menu, Yamaguchi perking up his ears and smiling but shaking his head, Tsukishima debating briefly before accepting the menu and looking through the available drinks, Kuroo leaning a bit closer and pointing to a few options, Tsukishima watching him quietly.
Kozume watched Kuroo and Tsukishima for a while longer before returning his eyes to Yamaguchi, waiting until the freckled beta met his eyes before asking, "What about you? Do you have any partners?"
Yamaguchi arched his brow, laughing softly. "No romance for me. I'm aromantic and asexual." He looked towards Tsukishima, adding, "Kei is my platonic life partner. He's the only person I've ever been close enough to, to consider being intimate with."
Tsukishima wasn't paying attention to what was being said, busy talking back and forth with Kuroo, his eyes drifting between the Alpha's lips and the menu while he puzzled over his options. Yamaguchi watched him with an affectionate smile, then gestured to Hinata, the omega perking up his ears and leaning a bit closer, smiling.
"You mean, what about me?" He asked, Yamaguchi nodding, Hinata laughing and blushing lightly, looking to Kozume and squeezing his hand. "Well, earlier tonight Kenma and I decided to bond." He lifted his hand to show his ring, Yamaguchi inhaling and reaching out to take his hand, admiring the band beneath the soft glow of the chandeliers hanging overhead. Hinata looked to Kozume, who in turn rested his hand beside the omega's, Yamaguchi admiring his ring for a moment too before looking up to Hinata, beckoning for him to speak.
Hinata giggled merrily, Kozume taking his hand and twining their fingers, Hinata's cheeks rosy as he continued.
"I also have a boyfriend who just moved in with me, his name is Bokuto Koutarou. He should hopefully be joining us for dinner soon!" He glanced towards Kuroo before adding, "He's spending some time with Akaashi right now, but he'll probably get back in touch with me once they're finished with their conversation." He met Yamaguchi's eyes, blushing and biting his lip before saying excitedly, "Koutarou and I are bonding, and now Kenma and I are bonding too!"
Yamaguchi nodded, his eyes wide, trying to absorb everything that was being said. He gestured between Kozume and Hinata, then asked curiously, "You're going to be sharing a lifebond? The three of you?"
"Yes." Kozume said, nodding and leaning close to kiss Hinata's temple, rubbing the omega's back while Hinata purred and rested against him, squeezing the beta's fingers tightly.
"They mean everything to me. They complete me." He turned to look at Kozume, nuzzling under his jaw affectionately before returning his attention to Yamaguchi once more. "I also have two roommates who I'm intimate with. They're twin brothers, Alphas."
Tsukishima had resumed watching their conversation, perking his ears up at that. "Twins, huh? That sounds interesting." He crossed his arms against the table, a little smirk teasing at his lips. "Are you intimate with them at the same time?"
"Tsukki!" Yamaguchi gasped, swatting at him and frowning a little while he signed quickly and chided, "Don't be rude!"
"No, it's alright to ask!" Hinata laughed, blushing and biting his lip as he looked from Yamaguchi to Tsukishima, nodding. "And to answer your question, yes. They do like to share me. The three of us are typically intimate together, when Osamu isn't away at college."
Tsukishima blinked at that, catching Yamaguchi's eyes, the betas signing back and forth for a moment before the blonde clarified, "Miya Osamu?"
Hinata's eyes widened and he nodded, grinning and asking in awe, "Do you know Osamu and Atsumu?"
Tsukishima hummed softly, replying, "I've never met Atsumu, but I knew Osamu had a twin. We had a few classes together last year. I moved to a college closer to us at the start of this semester, so I haven't seen him in quite some time."
Yamaguchi nodded, perking his ears towards Kozume and asking curiously, "You didn't mention your roommate's names, what were they?"
Kozume tilted his head slightly, offering, "Yaku Morisuke and Haiba Lev."
Yamaguchi smiled brightly, Tsukishima snorting and resting his cheek against his hand. "Of course you'd know Haiba." He perked his ears up a bit, a smug expression across his face. "Let me guess, you're a gamer too?"
Kozume blinked and nodded hesitantly, Hinata laughing and squeezing his hand, glancing between the two betas and asking cheerily, "Do you guys like playing video games too? I've been playing this new game with Haiba that's-" He gasped softly, glancing down and fishing his phone out of his pocket, getting up with a happy smile and stepping away from the table, talking excitedly as he disappeared into the crowd, heading back towards the entrance of the restaurant. Kozume watched him go, a soft, affectionate smile across his face, Kuroo standing as well when Hinata returned with Bokuto in tow, the two Alphas greeting one another.
"Hey, glad you could make it." Kuroo grinned, Bokuto chuckling softly and returning his light hug, Bokuto taking his seat across from him and looking down at Hinata, the omega tilting up his face for a kiss.
Yamaguchi and Tsukishima watched them curiously, Tsukishima smirking again while signing, [And I was concerned about Tetsu breaking his partner. This Alpha is huge.]
Yamaguchi grinned and snorted softly, catching his bottom lip between his teeth, watching as Hinata chatted back and forth with his boyfriend for a few moments before the Alpha wrapped his arms around him, hugging him tightly.
"Of course I'm alright with it. I'm so happy you two were able to finally tell one another how you feel." He looked past Hinata's shoulder, reaching over to touch Kozume's shoulder while searching his eyes, the beta blushing lightly and perking his ears towards the Alpha, Bokuto squeezing his shoulder and adding gently, "I would be happy to share my life with you."
"Thank you, Koutarou." Kozume whispered gently, his expression calm and relaxed, reaching up to press his hand over Bokuto's on his shoulder, squeezing his fingers back gently.
Hinata sighed happily, reaching out to both of them, lacing his right hand with Bokuto's and his left with Kozume's, his cheeks rosy and his smile bright. Kuroo smiled, watching them for a few moments longer before turning his attention to Tsukishima and Yamaguchi, watching the two betas sign back and forth for a moment before nudging Tsukishima, the blonde glancing up at him. "Did you two have something you'd like to share?"
Tsukishima nudged him back gently, perking his ears towards Bokuto as he started to speak. "We were saying how strange it is to see an Alpha that is taller than you."
Yamaguchi nodded, perking his ears towards the new arrival as well. "You're taller than both Tetsurou and Daichi!" He looked to Hinata, grinning and tilting his ears back a bit, the omega watching him for a moment before blushing and laughing merrily, squeezing his boyfriend's hand.
"He may look like a big, bad boy but in reality he's a massive teddy bear." He perked his ears towards the Alpha at his side affectionately, leaning against his shoulder, asking gently, "Did you have a chance to finally speak with Akaashi?"
"Yeah." Bokuto smiled, reaching up to pet Hinata's cheek. "Yeah, we're good now. I think he's comfortable enough around me for us to at least hang out together again sometime. Maybe all four of us?" He glanced past Hinata's shoulder, catching Kozume's eyes. "Five of us?"
"Kenma still hasn't met Keiji." Kuroo said, perking his ears up and meeting Kozume's eyes. "We'll have to have lunch together sometime, and once Keiji is comfortable enough then yeah, I'd say all five of us can spend time together. If that's something that you want?"
"I'd like that." Kozume said with a soft smile, squeezing Hinata's fingers and smiling as the omega kissed his cheek, purring softly to harmonize with Hinata's happy purrs.
Yamaguchi watched their interactions with a soft smile, glancing up at Tsukishima before touching his hand lightly, signing curiously, [Do you want to invite them to a game night sometime? I'm sure if they're friends with Haiba, they'd really enjoy it.]
[We'll see. I still haven't decided how I feel about their dynamic yet.] He tilted his head slightly towards Kuroo, adding with a soft snort, [I'm sure Tetsurou would like it if we invited Kozume, which I'm fine with. I'm uncertain about these two though.]
[Really? But Hinata seems so friendly!] Yamaguchi glanced towards the petite omega before asking, [What makes you hesitant? Was it something he said?]
Tsukishima shook his head subtly, quirking his brow a bit before replying, [He just seems like he's very high-energy. I'm not sure if he would be draining in prolonged doses.]
[That's fair.] Yamaguchi smiled, tapping Tsukishima's shoulder and gesturing towards the opposite end of the table, the blonde beta perking his ears up and looking towards the dainty omega that had arrived. He glanced at the menu one last time before giving her his order, returning his attention to Yamaguchi, watching as his roommate did the same, giving the little omega a friendly smile.
Once she was finished taking their orders and had stepped away, Tsukishima felt Kuroo tap his forearm lightly, the beta glancing up at him and watching as he spoke. "You two are going to call a cab after this, right?"
Tsukishima nodded, "Don't worry. I'm not planning on drinking too much."
Kuroo grinned teasingly at that, leaning a bit closer and glancing between Yamaguchi and Tsukishima as he said, "As long as you aren't as sloppy as the last time we had drinks together, I'm sure Tadashi and I will manage."
Tsukishima frowned a little, a blush tinting his cheeks. "You're never going to let me forget about that, are you?"
Yamaguchi laughed, shaking his head and signing to Tsukishima, [He won't admit it, but he loved being out with us that night. And to be fair, you weren't that drunk.]
[I know. He's just trying to get a rise out of me.] Tsukishima glanced up at Kuroo again, leaning a bit closer and asking, "Are you truly concerned? Or are you just wanting an excuse to invite me to spend the night again?"
Kuroo flustered a bit at that, Yamaguchi snorting and hiding his face with his hand, blushing and watching as the Alpha dipped back his ears a bit, a little pout settling across his lips. Tsukishima smirked at his reaction, leaning in and watching Kuroo's expressions, waiting for the Alpha to come up with some sort of retort. Kuroo glanced towards the opposite side of the table as the Alpha sitting across from him said something Tsukishima missed, Kuroo blushing even more and laughing heartily, Tsukishima glancing between them curiously, wondering what was said.
"No, we aren't dating." Kuroo clarified, glancing down at Tsukishima. "I barely manage to flirt with him, let alone anything beyond that. Kei has no issue with keeping me in my place."
Tsukishima glanced down, blushing lightly, Yamaguchi smiling and nudging him gently, catching his roommate's eyes. [You should tell him, you know. He thinks you aren't interested.]
[And ruin all the fun?] Tsukishima held the freckled beta's eyes for a moment longer before giving him a little wink, Yamaguchi exhaling through his nose and rolling his eyes lightly, resting his hand over his mouth lightly, hiding his knowing grin.
The waitress brought their drinks and appetizers, and the conversation shifted to recalling stories over the previous years. Kuroo's friendship with Tsukishima and Yamaguchi, Kozume's childhood friendship with Hinata, along with Bokuto's friendship with Kuroo and Akaashi as well. They laughed and shared appetizers between them, Hinata offering a bite of his nachos to Bokuto first, before turning and offering a bite to Hinata. Kuroo perked his ears, grinning as he copied Hinata's actions, turning to offer Tsukishima a bite of his jalapeno poppers, the blonde beta wrinkling his nose and glancing towards his roommate instead, the Alpha pouting at his dismissal. Kozume watched their interactions with a soft smile, picking up on the faintest traces of pink that would dust Tsukishima's cheeks when Kuroo teased him, the beta keeping up with the Alpha's playful antics and retorting with sly smirks and cool glances, teasing the Alpha back in return.
Kuroo hadn't really mentioned Tsukishima and Yamaguchi before tonight, and he was curious to know more about the two other betas. It felt easy to relax and be himself around them, though he could tell Hinata's laughter and bubbly personality were a bit too much for the mellow betas to truly relax around. Perhaps it had something to do with their sensitivity to sound, or their diminished hearing, but despite their reservations they interacted with Hinata kindly, speaking back and forth with him whenever the omega caught their attention. Yamaguchi seemed especially interested in the small omega, his eyes wandering between Hinata and Bokuto often as the evening progressed.
Eventually the waitress cleared away their empty plates and drinks, bringing their meals and refills before disappearing once again, leaving the friends to enjoy themselves together, the atmosphere between them pleasant and warm. Yamaguchi and Tsukishima signed back and forth now and then, but were otherwise engaged in the group conversation, Kuroo watching over them fondly, a soft smile across his lips. Beside them, Kuroo and Bokuto were exchanging rowdy laughter and bantering back and forth about high school days, Hinata's eyes wide as he watched them and listened, Kozume leaning a little closer to kiss the omega's shoulder before perking his ears towards the Alpha's as well.
"No you were definitely taller than me for a while, Tetsu! When we first met Akaashi, I definitely hadn't finished my growth spurt!"
"It's hard for me to remember being taller than you, I remember us being the same height for a while, but you've definitely grown since then!" He grinned and looked to Hinata, "What are you feeding him to get him to grow like that? Look at those muscles!"
Hinata laughed and shook his head, "It isn't me! If anyone's responsible, it's Atsumu and Kenma!" He looked to the beta beside him, squeezing his fingers and leaning in to nose at his cheek before giving him a quick kiss, Kozume's tawny eyes gentle as he rested against Hinata's side. "Kenma is an amazing chef. I've been lucky enough to spend most of my life being pampered by him. I'm a terrible cook!"
"Only because you have no interest in it." Kozume offered, sighing and shrugging lightly. "If you enjoyed it the way I do, putting time and effort into improving your cooking skills wouldn't seem like such a chore."
"Yeah, but now that we're bonding…" Hinata grinned, his cheeks rosy as he leaned closer again, "...I'll always have my own personal chef, right?"
Kuroo hummed, resting his cheek against his palm, glancing towards Bokuto. "You better prepare yourself, Koutarou. If you're bonding with those two they're definitely going to fatten you up!"
Yamaguchi looked up at his roommate, nodding and nudging him while saying, "Tsukki is the same way! He's an excellent cook, always trying new recipes and asking me to taste test everything! I've gained a decent amount of weight since we started living together."
"Shut up. You're still skinny." Tsukishima sighed softly, reaching out and poking at the smaller beta's stomach. "If you're that concerned, I can always stop cooking for you-"
Yamaguchi laughed, squeaking a little as he shook his head quickly, "Nevermind! I take it back! Please cook for me?"
Tsukishima smiled at that, smirking a little and poking at his tummy again, Yamaguchi grinning and laughing while batting away his hand, Kuroo reaching across the table for the desert menu and laying it out before pointing at the various sweets available.
"Alright guys, one last course before we call it a night?"
They shared a hot fudge brownie sundae between them, everyone getting a few bites of cool vanilla ice cream and warm brownie topped with fudge before settling back in their seats and reclining lazily, waiting for the waitress to bring their separate checks.
Hinata had dozed off lightly, resting against Kozume's shoulder, their fingers entwined, Bokuto watching the beta and omega with an affectionate smile before perking his ears towards Kuroo, the other Alpha taking his hand and squeezing gently. Bokuto searched his eyes, letting out a soft sigh of laughter and squeezing back his fingers as well, not saying anything but finding comfort in one another's presence and gentle touch, Kuroo eventually drawing back his hand and looking to the two betas beside him. Yamaguchi had practically dozed off against Tsukishima's shoulder as well, blinking up at Kuroo as the Alpha leaned closer and caught both sets of eyes, asking the betas curiously, "You two sure you're alright to call a cab? You can ride the metro back with me if you like, and I can drive you to your place?"
Tsukishima hummed softly, watching him for a few moments before giving him a flirty smirk and replying quietly, "Thank you but we'll be fine. I think we're both ready for bed."
Yamaguchi hummed as well, nodding lightly against Tsukishima's shoulder, letting out a soft sigh and closing his eyes, his hand resting over the other beta's.
They paid for their dinners, and walked together to the curb, waiting for the cab to arrive patiently before saying goodnight to Tsukishima and Yamaguchi, leaving the two Alphas, beta and omega to walk together to the train station.
Hinata was half-asleep, Bokuto carrying him lightly, the omega's arms wrapped around his neck as he rested against his shoulder, Kozume walking between Bokuto and Kuroo, the dark Alpha reaching out and taking his hand, lacing their fingers lightly.
"I'm happy for you. All of you." Kuroo whispered gently, Kozume and Bokuto looking over and meeting his eyes. "I think the three of you will be really happy together. It feels right, imagining your bonds together. Your friendships and mutual love are really beautiful. I feel privileged that you would share your affections with me."
Kozume smiled softly and arched up a bit as Kuroo dipped down to meet him, kissing him gently for a few moments before pulling away, Bokuto chuckling softly and saying as they parted, "Thank you for trusting me to be alone with Akaashi. I think talking to him today helped both of us. I hope he feels comfortable enough around me now to perhaps spend time with me again."
Kuroo smiled and nodded, holding Bokuto's eyes. "Yeah, yeah I'm sure we'll get there, Kou. I think now we can start something new to share between us, and hopefully in time Keiji will feel just as comfortable around you as he used to. I know I want that for you two, and I want that for me and you too." He squeezed Kozume's fingers, his eyes never leaving Bokuto's. "I want to share a friendship with you that transcends time."
Bokuto blushed a little at that, laughing and nodding eagerly. "I want that too, Tetsurou. I really do."
They sat together on the train ride, Kuroo reaching his stop first, giving Kozume a kiss goodnight and waving before starting towards the townhouse a few blocks away, the doors closing once more and heading towards Kozume's neighborhood, the beta glancing up and meeting Bokuto's eyes.
Bokuto offered him a warm smile, rubbing up and down Hinata's back gently as he asked, "Everything's okay now?"
Kozume nodded, a soft smile across his lips. "Everything's perfect."
Bokuto nodded, perking his ears up a bit before dipping them again, hesitating only a moment before asking, "You're content to share a bond with me?"
Kozume watched Bokuto quietly for a few lingering moments, reaching over and finding the Alpha's hand, squeezing his fingers and asking gently, "I am content with it, yes. Are you content with sharing Shouyou with me?"
Bokuto nodded easily, letting out a deep sigh as he gently laced their fingers, whispering affectionately, "I would be more than content to share our lives together. The love you share with Shouyou is breathtaking, and I am in awe of the connection the two of you share. I would never dare do anything to change that. I am honored that you would accept me, and allow me into your lives." He blushed and watched Kozume with a warm, gentle expression before offering hesitantly, "Would you like to come home with us tonight? So we can all be together, the three of us?"
Kozume arched his brow, laughing softly and nodding, leaning closer to rest against Bokuto's side. "Yes, Koutarou. I would like that very much."
Thanks for reading! More to come!
