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, Oikawa x Hinata, Shimizu x Atsumu, Shimizu x Osamu, Atsumu x Shimizu x Osamu, Kageyama x Atsumu, Kageyama x Osamu, Kageyama x Atsumu x Osamu, Atsumu x Kageyama x Shimizu x Osamu, Kageyama x Shimizu, Kageyama x OC, Bokuto x Kuroo x OC, Hinata x Kozume x OC, Atsumu x Osamu x OC, Hinata x Akaashi, Hinata x Kuroo, Hinata x Bokuto x Kuroo x Akaashi
Plot: Kozume considers Osamu's proposal. The twins spend time with Shimizu and Kageyama.
Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics
Ch 25: Accord
Kageyama strummed a few chords on his guitar, pausing now and then to make notes for himself before resuming his strumming, one of his ears twitching towards the sound of Shimizu's voice in the next room. She was laughing softly at something that had been said, a smile in her tone as she sighed happily and let out a curious little hum.
"Alright, I wouldn't mind being treated to coffee. When would you like to meet up?"
Kageyama frowned a little, returning his attention to his notes, trying not to eavesdrop on his sister's conversation, pushing back the sharp pang of jealousy that instantly jabbed at the pit of his stomach. It had been years now since she had last been intimate with Artemis, years since she had shown any interest in dating anyone other than the vulpine Alpha, and it would be purely selfish on Kageyama's part to deter her from dating someone new.
It wasn't as if it were a stranger flirting with his sister, not really. When Kageyama and Shimizu had stayed late to chat with Hinata's partners at the ceremony the evening before, he hadn't expected the four of them to mesh together so smoothly. The twin Alphas were charming and charismatic, and Shimizu was instantly taken with both of them, though if Kageyama was reading things correctly it seemed she had taken a particular interest in Osamu. Atsumu on the other hand had pointedly flirted with Kageyama for the remainder of the night, giving the quiet beta his undivided attention while his twin brother spoke with Shimizu close by.
Kageyama still wasn't certain whether to take Atsumu's flirtations as anything more than tipsy teasing at the end of the afterparty, or something more substantial. It was strange to have not only Hinata, but also Atsumu, showing interest in exchanging intimacy. He'd never really considered hooking up or partnering with an Alpha before. His sister on the other hand held no such reservations, and when her footsteps drew closer and Kageyama glanced up to meet her eyes he knew in an instant what she was about to say.
"Osamu is taking me out for coffee." She bit at her lip while tucking her dark hair away from her rosy cheeks, her eyes glinting as she watched over Kageyama. "He asked if you would like to join us? He mentioned that Atsumu might try to call you, to arrange a double-date. Do you want to come along to the café with us?"
Kageyama pulled his eyes away, looking down at his guitar and strumming lightly for a few moments before asking, "Is it alright if I say no?" He paused for a moment before beginning to replay the chord progression he'd been working on, adding quietly above the gentle melody, "It's been a while since I've felt inspired to write something new. I thought I might work on this for a bit, see how much I can come up with before my muse escapes me." He sighed to himself quietly, looking up once more to meet Shimizu's eyes. "It's up to you, Kiyoko. I'll do whatever you'd like."
Shimizu arched her brow, humming softly and stepping into Kageyama's room, kneeling down beside him and watching him with a kind smile before murmuring gently, "It's alright for you to stay home. I'll text Osamu and let him know it'll be just the two of us this time. Maybe next time you and Atsumu can come along too?"
Kageyama nodded lightly, Shimizu watching him for a moment longer before leaning closer to nose at his cheek, kissing the high rise of his cheekbone before Kageyama's movements stilled and he tilted his face up to hers, bringing their lips together slowly.
"I love you." She whispered, searching her brother's eyes, petting his cheek gently and kissing him once more. "I love you, darling."
"I love you too, Kiyoko." Kageyama whispered, leaning closer and pressing his face against the curve of her neck, inhaling over her scent glands deeply, his fingers twitching along the raised frets of his guitar. They lingered like that a while, sitting together atop the carpet while Kageyama strummed his guitar, enjoying one another's presence and warmth, sharing soft kisses between them.
Kageyama's phone eventually buzzed, and Shimizu perked her ears towards her own phone as it chimed, smiling and drawing away from her brother before padding down the hallway towards her bedroom, calling over her shoulder, "I'm getting changed before heading to the café! I'll see you later tonight! Call me if you need anything?"
"I will." Kageyama called back, his eyes flitting across the message he'd just received from Atsumu, a curious little smile turning up his lips.
/MA: Hey cutie! It's Atsu ;)
/MA: You up for lunch at the café?
A shameless flirt even when sober, it seemed. Kageyama let out a soft huff of laughter before texting back, setting his phone aside and glancing towards it now and then as he waited for the Alpha to reply.
/KT: Thank you for inviting me, but I'm working on music right now.
/KT: Maybe next time?
Kageyama sighed to himself quietly, reaching for his pen and making a few notes before continuing to play, closing his eyes and focusing on the sound of his guitar. Atsumu replied a few minutes later, Kageyama leaning towards the upturned device slightly to read the highlighted text lingering across the screen.
/MA: You sure I can't persuade you?
/MA: While I don't typically mind tagging along with Osu on his dates, it tends to be a bit more fun for all of us if I bring someone with me too.
Kageyama rolled his eyes at that, finally setting his guitar aside and picking up his phone, reclining back against the carpet while texting the Alpha with both hands, something between jealousy and playfulness igniting within his gut.
/KT: Are you saying I need to come along and chaperone my sister so you two don't get up to any mischief without me there?
/KT: I thought Alphas were supposed to be chivalrous during courting?
/KT: Until at least what, the third date?
Kageyama watched the screen, waiting for the reply to come, rolling onto his side as a series of short messages appeared, chuckling softly at the Alpha's casual banter.
/MA: With courting someone new, Osu and I both tend to allow our intended playmate to take the lead.
/MA: If they're interested, it doesn't matter to us if it's the first date or the fiftieth.
/MA: That being said, I'd be more than happy to pamper your sister if you truly held no objections.
/MA: It wouldn't be the first time Osu and I shared a pretty beta between us.
/MA: You and your sister are seriously cute.
Kageyama let out a heavy sigh, hiding his face against the curve of his arm and trying not to feel too jealous at the thought of Atsumu and Osamu sharing Shimizu between them, a soft possessive growl already rumbling in the depths of his chest.
A part of him knew that Hinata would never have partners that pursued hookups without express consent, and so he trusted the twin Alphas not to pressure Shimizu into anything she wasn't interested in doing, but still. It twisted something inside of him, imagining her with Osamu, or Atsumu, or both of the Alphas together.
He didn't want to leave her alone with them. He didn't want to give her up to them so easily, so suddenly. Not yet. Not quite yet.
He pushed himself up from the carpet, padding down the length of the hall and peering into Shimizu's room, his sister glancing over at him in surprise, a little smile teasing across her lips.
She didn't say anything, simply watched Kageyama as she continued getting dressed, the younger beta sighing after a moment and turning away with a little pout, murmuring under his breath, "I'll work on things some more once we get back. I'm starting to feel hungry anyway, so if they're treating us to lunch I don't really have any objections."
Shimizu hummed quietly, tossing her hair over her shoulders and adjusting her top before meeting Kageyama's eyes once more. "Alright." She agreed with an amused little smile, "I'll tell Osamu you're coming along too."
-x-x-x-
It had been several years since Hinata had last visited the beach, but that trip to the coast had been nothing in comparison to this.
The islands were cut off from the mainland and only accessible by flight or charter, the resorts dappled here and there along the golden sands more lavish than anything Hinata had ever dreamed could exist in the real world.
Kozume had visited the islands several times before. His mother was particularly fond of the resort they were staying at, and once they approached the front desk and requested accommodations for their reservations the staff immediately recognized Kozume's family name, catering to him and his bondmates as if they were exclusive VIP guests. Perhaps they were, in fact. Hinata rarely asked Kozume about anything to do with his heritage, his family and inheritance were not something that the beta opted to talk about. It had been that way ever since they were kids, and Hinata doubted if that would ever change, even now that they were bonded.
Bokuto was similarly in awe, the Alpha breathless as he took in their surroundings, marveling at the elaborate suite they were shown to before the staff left them to their own devices; the open windows facing the rolling waves along the beach, the billowing curtains and tall columns standing proudly on either side of the walkway connecting their private balcony to the glittering sands. The lounge room, the adjacent kitchen, the lavish bathroom and bedrooms beyond. The closets were filled with beachwear and beautiful flowing garments made specifically for their extended stay in the tropical climate, and Hinata wasted no time in stripping out of his clothes and finding something comfortable to wear for the remainder of the day before running outside onto the beach, Kozume trailing quietly behind him.
"Sunscreen." The beta chided affectionately, tugging Hinata beneath the shade of a towering palm tree before gesturing for the omega to stand still. Hinata squirmed under his hands, his eyes bright and glittering with reflections of the sunlight dancing across the bright blue waters, bubbly energy singing through his veins.
"Oh gosh I wanna swim!" He whined, looking over at Kozume with a little pout before patting at his bandaging lightly. "Do you think that maybe it's healed enough already? Can we take this off and at least have a look?"
"I just finished wrapping you up before the flight this morning, Sho. Remember how sore you were from dancing?" He sighed and arched his brow a bit, holding the omega's eyes for a moment longer before returning to dutifully coating his skin with sunscreen, trying to reason with his bonded. "You knew you would have to wait a few days before submerging in saltwater. It won't be good for any of us if you rush things." At Hinata's subsequent whine, Kozume instilled again, "You need to give yourself time to properly heal, alright? Promise me you'll stay in the shallows, no more than waist deep. We'll check your progress again tomorrow and reassess."
Footsteps in the sand drew their attention, Kozume speaking to Bokuto calmly as the Alpha approached.
"Koutarou, I need you to keep an eye on Shouyou while you're out in the water. He can't get his bandages wet, so no splashing. Alright?"
Bokuto grinned and nodded, reaching out to smooth his palm along Hinata's side. "I'll watch him, Kenma. Don't worry."
Kozume's expression smoothed, and he nodded before leaning closer to begin smearing lotion along the Alpha's exposed skin as well, Bokuto groaning and making a face but allowing the beta to do as he liked. Hinata watched them both with a happy smile, giggling excitedly and running ahead while they were both distracted, squealing in delight as he stepped into the warm water, the waves lapping at his ankles and shins leaving traces of seafoam behind.
Bokuto joined Hinata shortly after, the pair walking together hand in hand along the length of the pristine beach, Kozume staying behind to unpack their suitcases and make arrangements for lunch before contacting his mother. He'd spoken with her over the phone briefly upon their arrival, and from what Hinata had overheard it seemed she was intent on joining them later in the week to meet Hinata and Bokuto for the very first time.
Hinata was curious to meet her, but also apprehensive. He'd never met any of his partner's parents before. Family wasn't something he had much experience with personally. He barely remembered anything about his parents or his childhood.
He had chosen to surround himself with trusted friends and loved ones instead of lamenting lost ties, creating a new family with his bondmates and their shared packmates instead. He had never been happier than when he was with them. Each of his precious friends were as dear to him as if they were truly his family by blood.
He perked his ears towards Bokuto curiously as the Alpha tugged at his hand, pausing his steps and looking out across the sparkling ocean, twisting his ears towards the sound of gulls cawing loudly overhead.
"It's beautiful here." Bokuto whispered, almost breathless as he squeezed Hinata's hand tightly. "I'm so grateful to be here, to be able to experience this with you."
Hinata purred happily while pressing against his Alpha's side, pawing at his chest and tilting his face up for a kiss, Bokuto dipping down to oblige him. They stood together in the shallows, curling their toes in the warm sand and enjoying the surf lapping at their ankles, Hinata eventually breaking away and running ahead of his bonded across the golden beach, Bokuto grinning wolfishly and happily chasing after.
They traveled the length of the beach for quite some time, picking up seashells and watching the rolling tide, gulls following after them from a distance, flying overhead across the cloudless blue skies. The sea breeze was warm and soothing against their exposed skin, their garments light and ever-flowing, tossed by the wind and sea. Hinata reached up to shield his eyes from the sunlight while casting his gaze across the horizon where the ocean merged with the sky, filled with so much emotion he found it hard to breathe.
He never wanted to forget this. He felt such immense happiness within him he thought his heart might burst.
Eventually Kozume found them, the beta carrying a large knit tote over his shoulder filled with drinks and snacks, and more sunscreen much to Hinata's dismay. Bokuto chuckled fondly, taking turns with Kozume to ensure Hinata was sufficiently coated in a new layer of lotion before allowing him to run free again, the omega chasing after a pair of gulls while laughing merrily, leaving scattered footprints in his wake.
Kozume sighed softly, smiling affectionately and watching his bonded for a long moment before retrieving a large beach towel from his tote, splaying it across the warm sands with Bokuto's assistance. He slipped out of his sandals and dusted his feet before stepping onto the towel, settling down and fetching drinks from his bag, offering one to the Alpha at his side, the two resting safely away from the edge of the surf while watching over Hinata.
"He has endless amounts of energy." Bokuto chuckled, shaking his head slowly while taking a sip of his drink, tilting one of his ears towards Kozume. "Thank you for sharing this with us. This place is breathtaking."
Kozume smiled, meeting Bokuto's eyes, smoothing a fresh layer of sunscreen across his arms absently as he spoke. "I'm happy to be able to provide for you both, in whatever ways I can." His gaze drifted towards the sea, his tone almost apologetic as he added, "My mother would like to meet the two of you tomorrow night. There's a restaurant on the central island that's popular with mainland tourists. The food is well worth the visit, but I have a feeling my mother isn't planning on acting as a gracious host." He tucked his bangs away from his eyes, letting out a soft sigh. "I'm worried she will fail to see the need to filter herself, and say something to upset you or Shouyou."
Bokuto frowned a little, humming thoughtfully for a moment before leaning closer and pressing his shoulder to Kozume's. "No matter what she does or says, we wouldn't hold that against you, Kenma."
The beta nodded, quiet for a few moments before continuing on. "My father left her for a younger woman. She's extremely cynical due to her past circumstances, and as I am her only child her protectiveness of me can be quite...overbearing." He tugged his knees closer to rest his arms atop them lightly. "During the divorce, she had to fight tooth and nail for her share of my father's fortune, rightfully earned as an equal partner in both business and marriage. It took its toll on her; it broke her heart and her trust. When she sees those of...lesser means surrounding us, she assumes they only want one thing. Our money."
He arched his brow, propping his cheek against his palm and sighing.
"She never lets anyone get close to me. She has chased them away, time and time again. It's one of the reasons we're somewhat estranged, and I have chosen to live my life without her direct involvement for the most part." He curled his toes against the plush towel beneath them, adding quietly, "There have been times throughout the years when she has asked to meet Shouyou before, but I've come up with excuses to keep them apart. Now that we're bonded, whatever excuses I may have held before are irrelevant." His voice was strained, uneasy. "I know she will focus on your apparent shortcomings, mainly your class status above all else. Your education will likely be a key point of her evaluation, as well as your upbringing, your family ties. Her inquiries will be harsh, and invasive."
He met Bokuto's eyes, a frown turning down his lips.
"If she would only give you and Shouyou a chance, I fully believe she would come to adore you just as much as I have." Kozume closed his eyes briefly before meeting Bokuto's gaze again. "In the end, the money doesn't matter to me. I trust both of you unconditionally. Whatever documents I have to sign to ensure you and Shouyou are part of my inheritance, I will make certain those arrangements are finalized, regardless of what my mother has to say about it." He arched his brow, smiling softly. "I've made my decision to be with the two of you for the rest of my life. Whatever I have is now yours."
"Kenma…" Bokuto arched his brow, watching the beta quietly for a few moments before wrapping his arms around him gently, Kozume letting out a shaky sigh and hiding his face against the Alpha's neck. "Thank you, for trusting us. For even considering sharing so much with us. You don't have to do that, you shouldn't feel obligated-"
"I don't feel obligated. I want to." Kozume said softly, resting against Bokuto's shoulder and patting his broad chest lightly. "Shouyou has known me for a lifetime, and he has never once asked me for money. I know that's not what you're after, either of you. Still, the simple truth remains that I am well off in comparison to either of you, and now that we are bonded I want to share my wealth with both of you. My bondmates." He pulled back a little, searching Bokuto's eyes. "At the after party, while I was speaking with Osamu, did you happen to overhear our conversation?"
Bokuto tilted one of his ears to the side, glancing up at Hinata as the omega padded over to them, grinning excitedly and plopping down atop the beach towel with a collection of pretty shells in hand before promptly sprawling out with a happy sigh. Bokuto carded his fingers through Hinata's hair with an affectionate smile, returning his attention to Kozume once more. "No, I must have been distracted at that moment." He didn't ask anything more, simply watching the beta curiously, waiting to see if Kozume would continue now that Hinata was able to hear their conversation.
Kozume didn't seem hesitant at all, reaching down to pet over Hinata's shoulder and chest while the omega curled up between them, purring loudly. "Osamu approached me with a proposal to purchase property in the countryside. He has plans to build a house for us, for all of us, but he is at a standstill financially. He has saved quite a bit himself over the past several years, but with the economy what it is, rising market prices are preventing him from finalizing the contract for the building site." Kozume hummed to himself for a moment before adding, "That is the first, most immediate obstacle, and then of course once the land has been officially purchased there would be subsequent construction costs involved."
Hinata sat up a bit as Kozume spoke, arching his brow with concern, his lips turning down into a little frown as he tried to understand everything that was being said. "You mean that Osu…" He shook his head, his breath hitching, his hands clenched into fists. "Osu asked you for money?"
Kozume continued petting over Hinata's chest soothingly, meeting his eyes with an even, calm gaze. "All he asked was for me to consider it. He showed me a bit of his intended design and the property he had selected. It's beautiful land, Shouyou. Almost twenty acres surrounded by mountainside and forest. Room enough for all of us to build upon, potentially the entire pack. Could you imagine such a thing?" Kozume smiled gently, watching Hinata with a sweet smile. "Having our own private neighborhood in the countryside? The homes of our friends and loved ones built side by side, all of us sharing the land together? Growing our own community?" He cupped Hinata's cheek, leaning closer and pressing a kiss to the omega's sun-kissed freckles. "I thought about you, about how much you would love that Sho. Raising pups somewhere beautiful like that, somewhere remote and safe, where they can grow up away from the heart of the city. Doesn't that sound like something you would want for them? For all of us?"
Hinata's expression was torn, a part of him elated at the concept of such an amazing thing, but another part of him guilt-ridden and embarrassed that one of his partners would even think of approaching Kozume to ask for financial support. He opened his mouth to speak, a soft stutter escaping him, before he swallowed thickly and tried again. "I...I'm sorry, Kenma. I'm so sorry. Osamu shouldn't have done that. He shouldn't have asked-"
"Shouyou. Look at me."
Hinata arched his brow, his words faltering, anxiety coiling tight in his chest. "I know what you're going to say Kenma, but he shouldn't have-"
Kozume leaned closer to press their lips together, silencing Hinata gently, purring softly and petting over his warm skin to soothe him, Bokuto petting along the omega's spine while crooning soft and low. Hinata hesitated for a few moments longer before relaxing beneath their touch, closing his eyes and tugging at Kozume's shoulders gently, kissing him back slowly while tangling his fingers in the beta's hair.
Kozume pressed a little closer, listening to the soft sounds escaping Hinata as the omega arched against him, and between the two of them Bokuto and Kozume gradually pushed away Hinata's spiraling thoughts. The omega was always like this any time they discussed Kozume's inheritance. It was rare that Hinata would allow Kozume to buy him anything at all, let alone something as monumental as this.
When they finally parted Hinata's cheeks were rosy, his breath trembling, the beta above him searching his eyes while petting his cheeks, holding his gaze and whispering firmly, "This is my choice, Shouyou. I want to provide for you. I always have. Now that we're mates, you have to allow me to care for you. Osamu is willing to do almost all of the planning and labor by hand. If he needs help with the costs of finalizing the contract, and building materials to begin constructing our home, it's the least I can do to help."
Bokuto hummed, nodding lightly, glancing down and meeting Hinata's eyes as well. "That's astonishing to even think about. Osamu must be so talented, to be able to even conceive of such plans." He stroked his fingertips along Hinata's spine, grinning excitedly while asking, "Can you imagine it? Living in a big house together? Tetsu and Keiji having a house nearby us, our pups playing together with Skye?"
"There would be enough space to ask if Sugawara and his mates wanted to join us too." Kozume added gently, Hinata glancing between his bondmates quietly. "Rue would be there, Rue and Skye would both grow up alongside our pups." He rubbed along Hinata's upper arm, still trying to instill a sense of calm. "We could ask Mori and Lev about joining us, and perhaps even Yama and Tsukki? Felines are exceptionally fond of the countryside. I'm almost certain that they would be open to the opportunity of experiencing such a thing. It isn't often we're given a chance to leave the city behind and find homes for ourselves out in the wilds."
Kozume met Bokuto's eyes briefly before returning to speaking to Hinata once more.
"Our pack is strong together. We can depend upon one another, and trust one another to keep our families safe." He watched Hinata's expressions carefully, his brow just slightly arched. "Is that something you want, Shouyou? Would you want to raise a family together in the countryside?"
Hinata was quiet for a few moments longer before nodding shyly, biting his lip and searching Kozume's eyes. "It's not…" He glanced to the side, his ears dipping back a bit. "It's not too much to ask…?"
Kozume dipped down and reconnected their lips again, kissing Hinata sweetly, pressing the omega back against Bokuto's chest. When they parted Kozume was purring, peppering Hinata's pink cheeks with kisses while murmuring reassuringly, "It would make me happier beyond words to give this to you, Sho. I want to give this to you and Koutarou; I want to share this with our loved ones, our packmates." He arched his brow a little, offering Hinata a tender smile. "Please let me?"
Hinata watched Kozume closely, searching his hooded tawny eyes, then eventually he nodded slowly, a giddy smile gradually curving up his lips. "We're going to build a home together? All of us?"
"We're going to build a community together. We're going to have a piece of the world that's all our own." Kozume agreed with a burst of happy laughter. "It's all I've ever wanted and more, to share this life with you." He looked up, meeting Bokuto's eyes, reaching out to tug the Alpha closer as well. "I love you, both of you. I can't wait to help make Osamu's dream for us a reality. It's an amazing, beautiful dream."
Hinata was giggling excitedly, wrapping his arms around Kozume tightly while Bokuto chuckled deeply, keeping his bondmates close. "I can't believe it. I can barely believe we're here, let alone making plans to build a house together!"
Kozume laughed brightly, Hinata nuzzling his cheek and jaw while tugging him down for more kisses, the beta's heart fluttering as their lips met over and over again. The waves nearby rolled rhythmically across the glittering sands, crashing against the shore and leaving behind traces of seafoam in their wake, the tide slowly washing away Hinata's footprints while gulls cawed loudly overhead.
-x-x-x-
Shimizu watched the Alphas across from her with a playful little smile, one of her ears tilting towards her brother as she watched him interact with Atsumu, the golden Alpha grinning impishly and waiting for Kageyama to reply.
Kageyama sighed and shook his head lightly, a little smile teasing at the corners of his lips. "You're unbelievable, you know that? I still can't believe what a shameless flirt you are. How many partners do you have, aside from Hinata?"
"Now now, don't change the subject." Atsumu crooned softly, leaning a little closer across the table, his eyes never leaving Kageyama's. "It's a simple question, isn't it? I really want to know."
Osamu quirked a brow, resting his chin against his palm as he watched his brother with interest, Shimizu waiting quietly to see if Kageyama would actually respond. "Brazen, aren't we? Asking such a thing, and on the first date!"
"I just want to know if any of it is real, or if it's all banter." Atsumu met his brother's eyes briefly before looking to Shimizu, giving the pretty beta a little wink before returning his attention to Kageyama once more. "It's alright if it's just fun and games, I'm enjoying myself either way, but if it's something more than that I want to know. Honestly."
Kageyama paused to take another bite of his blueberry scone, his fingertips dancing across the handle of his coffee cup before lifting it to his lips, sipping quietly and fixing the grinning Alpha in his sights. "It's not that I'm...uninterested." He set his coffee aside, licking his lips for a moment before letting out a slow, heavy sigh. His brow pinched a bit, his expression falling, and he continued in a calm, quiet tone. "I don't really do casual hookups. Not anymore. I went through that phase for a few years after losing my first partner, when I was in a really dark place."
He glanced over, meeting his sister's eyes.
"I left Shimizu behind. I moved around constantly, never staying in one place for too long. I didn't make contact with her for almost three years. It wasn't...healthy. For either of us. So, the thought of casual sex like that doesn't sit well with me. It reminds me of how it was, living like that. I made a lot of bad decisions, blinded by grief. A lot of stupid mistakes." He shrugged lightly, his ears tilting towards Atsumu as he gestured lightly against the air. "The idea of hooking up isn't appealing to me, y'know? It was a way for me to grieve and try to work through what I was dealing with at that time, but it's definitely not something that I seek out anymore."
Atsumu made a soft sound of understanding, his playful demeanor quieting into something gentle and calm. "I can understand that, especially if you associate such things with the partner you lost." He glanced to the side, thinking for a moment. "So, you're interested in the idea of having sex with me, but you're not interested in casual hookups?"
Kageyama let out a soft rush of air, reaching up and carding his fingers through his dark locks while looking to his sister, faint traces of a blush staining his cheeks. Shimizu was watching him patiently, giving a little nod of encouragement, hoping Kageyama would gather his courage and continue to speak his mind.
Kageyama held her eyes for a moment, then looked to Atsumu again. "I haven't really...allowed myself to be with anybody since losing Chai. Not in a relationship kind of way. Nothing serious, no emotions involved. I think that…" He bit his lip for a moment, trying to put into words exactly what he wanted to say. "I think that's what I had to do to protect myself. I shut myself off from the possibility of replacing Chai with someone new. I thought of it as a betrayal, as if I were cheating on him, or disrespecting his memory somehow."
He let out a shaky breath, squeezing his fingers together tightly, thinking of Hinata, of how the omega made him feel, of the possibilities that had sprouted between them during the time they had spent together.
"Now I think that...I might be open to exploring with someone I trust. Someone I know won't judge me, or pressure me into anything I'm not ready for." He met Atsumu's eyes, arching his brow a little and giving the Alpha a teasing smile. "So...yeah? I'm interested in the idea of sex with you. That being said," He inhaled softly before exhaling a slow breath, "I'm not ready to actually act upon that interest. Not yet. I need time to figure out what exactly it is I'm feeling, and decide if I'm...okay with being intimate with you."
Atsumu nodded, humming softly and shifting forward, reaching across the table to take Kageyama's hand, squeezing his fingers gently. "Thank you for telling me that."
Kageyama nodded, ducking his ears back a bit and letting out a soft breath of laughter, smiling and squeezing the Alpha's fingers back lightly. "Yeah thanks for...for listening to what I had to say…"
"It takes a lot of courage," Atsumu continued gently, "Talking about things like that. Communicating openly about your doubts and fears, your insecurities." He smoothed his thumb along Kageyama's knuckles, nodding his head lightly while holding the beta's eyes. "Being able to tell someone not yet, I need more time is crazy attractive. Thank you for trusting me enough to tell me honestly how you're feeling, and verbalizing what it is you want."
Kageyama could feel his cheeks growing hot, searching the Alpha's eyes and humming quietly, lingering just a moment longer before withdrawing his hand, Atsumu pulling back his hand as well. Osamu watched them with a warm smile, stirring his coffee for a moment before lifting his cup to take a sip, Shimizu watching the silver Alpha with a knowing smile, Osamu catching her eyes and giving her a little wink.
They sat together in comfortable silence, finishing their drinks and sweets before leaving the sunlit café, walking together side-by-side through cobbled streets dappled with sunshine. Kageyama was speaking with Atsumu quietly while Osamu and Shimizu walked hand in hand along the boulevard, flirting back and forth with one another casually while exchanging teasing little smiles.
The twins walked them back to their townhouse, Atsumu and Kageyama parting first, the younger beta stepping inside to return on the music he had been working on before, leaving the Alphas alone with Shimizu. She waited until the sounds of her brother's footsteps had faded away before stepping closer to Osamu, searching the silver Alpha's eyes for a long moment before resting a hand against his shoulder, tilting her face up for a kiss, Osamu chuckling softly and pressing closer to oblige, holding her gently around her waist.
"Thank you for treating us." Shimizu whispered, Osamu crooning and nodding while glancing towards his brother with a little smile.
"Glad we were able to spend time together, all four of us."
"Yeah, I had a really good time." Atsumu agreed, grinning and perking his ears towards Shimizu, the beta laughing softly and nodding while patting gently at Osamu's chest.
"Thank you for being kind to my brother." She said quietly. "He means everything to me. I just want him to be happy. I love him very, very much."
Osamu nodded, Atsumu smiling and reaching up to rub his nape, grinning impishly as he asked, "Would it be alright if I asked him out tomorrow night without you? Just the two of us? There's this movie I've been wanting to see, I thought maybe Kageyama might like it too."
"A movie date? How retro!" Osamu teased, Atsumu chuckling and stepping closer to shoulder-check him playfully, perking his ears towards Shimizu as she laughed softly.
"I'm alright with it, if Tobio is feeling up to being social." She smiled up at the golden Alpha, looking between the twins for a moment before saying quietly, "I'm more than happy to spend time with either of you, or both of you. I'm certain Tobio feels the same."
Atsumu and Osamu exchanged a glance at that, Atsumu quirking a brow with a knowing grin while Osamu chuckled and shoved at his brother playfully, chiding under his breath, "You could at least pretend you don't have a one-track mind, Atsu!"
"What! Can you blame me? They're both gorgeous."
Osamu sighed, giving Shimizu an apologetic smile, the beta giggling quietly between them. She pushed herself up onto her toes, giving Osamu another kiss, petting Atsumu's chest as she did so, the tawny Alpha crooning softly and petting along the curve of her hip while Osamu held her waist. She pulled back a moment later, the twins waving goodbye as she stepped towards the front door. They lingered outside just a little while longer to make sure she was safely inside before turning around, beginning to walk back down the sidewalk the way they'd come before.
They held hands as they walked, Atsumu leaning in and kissing at Osamu's neck and shoulder gently, Osamu sighing and closing his eyes, squeezing Atsumu's hand while leaning into his touch.
"Do you think they're like us?" Osamu asked, Atsumu humming curiously, pulling back a bit to meet his brother's eyes.
"Like us?" He asked, Osamu nodding, waiting for Atsumu to catch on to his meaning.
"They seemed...close, didn't they? Closer than one might expect of siblings." He leaned closer to nip at Atsumu's jaw, a soft purr rumbling beneath his tone. "Protective of one another, loyal to a fault, always considering the other's feelings. Yearning for their well-being and happiness above all else. Eager to share."
Atsumu's eyes widened as a soft sound of understanding escaped him, his smile turning into something wild and enthusiastic. "Seriously? Do you really think so?"
"I don't know. It's hard to say at this point, but I get this feeling whenever I watch Shimizu with him." He squeezed his brother's hand, giving Atsumu a warm, gentle smile. "I think she's in love with Kageyama. I think they're just like us."
"That would be…" Atsumu shook his head in disbelief, "That would be amazing. We've never met others like us before, siblings that truly loved one another the same as we do. Siblings that are intimate together; that share partners with one another as well as sharing intimacy between themselves…"
Osamu nodded, humming quietly while glancing towards the boulevard, tugging Atsumu along beside him as they made their way back to their car. "It's intriguing, isn't it? I would advise caution however until we've spent more time with them one on one. They might broach the subject willingly, or alternatively they might deny it vehemently if it's brought up before they're ready to talk about it with us." He frowned a little, letting out a soft sigh. "For all we know I may be reading into things incorrectly, my intuition isn't always perfect. We don't want to accidentally scare them off."
Atsumu hummed his agreement, nodding as well. "I understand, Osu. I won't say anything. Not until we know for sure."
Osamu smiled, meeting his brother's eyes, holding his gaze for a long moment before squeezing his fingers and whispering gently, "I love you, Atsu."
Atsumu grinned, chuckling merrily as they continued walking together through the sunshine. "I love you too, Osu."
-x-x-x-
Kozume stared out of the large bay windows facing the ocean, watching the moonlight reflecting off of the dark water. He was almost finished with his second glass of wine, and his thoughts were filled with his mother. He couldn't stop worrying about their dinner engagement tomorrow, and all the various different ways things could possibly go wrong once he introduced her to Bokuto and Hinata.
His bondmates were nearby, Hinata giggling happily and speaking back and forth with Bokuto quietly, the Alpha chuckling at something the omega had said moments before.
He didn't hear them, he couldn't focus. His thoughts were spiraling, his emotions a mess. Despite his calm and cool demeanor, on the inside he was a frenzied whirlwind. He inhaled softly through his nose, uncurling from his position on the couch and glancing towards his mates, a little smile turning up his lips. He loved them dearly, and he was happy to be here on the islands with them, but he found himself missing his Alpha at that moment. He needed Kuroo's steadfast stability and reason to ground him back into the moment, and put his mind at ease once more.
Quietly, so as not to disturb Hinata and Bokuto's conversation, he set his wine glass aside and stepped towards the open balcony stretching out towards the beach, drawing his phone from his pocket. He dialed Kuroo's number, pressing his phone against his cheek, walking across the shadowed sands as he waited for the Alpha to pick up.
Kuroo's voice was soft and deep as it greeted his ears, Kozume smiling to himself and closing his eyes, imagining the dark Alpha's natural warmth.
"Hey Kitten. I was just thinking about you."
"Really?" Kozume asked teasingly, a hint of laughter in his tone. "And what were you thinking about?"
He could feel Kuroo's sultry grin through the phone, the Alpha stretching out with a soft, lazy grunt and letting out a contented sigh. Kozume could hear the sound of fabric shuffling, perhaps a blanket, or perhaps a comforter and sheets. "Do you want me to describe it to you in detail, pet? Wouldn't your bondmates want to know why you're suddenly so flustered?"
"Tease." Kozume murmured, standing at the edge of the water, perking his ears towards the moonlit waves lapping at the shore, taking a deep breath and letting out a heavy sigh.
Kuroo could sense there was something he wasn't saying, asking after a moment of silence, "What is it, Kitten? Was there a reason you were calling so late at night?"
"I miss you." Kozume replied softly, Kuroo crooning in response to his words, chucking as he let out a quiet sigh.
"I miss you too, sweetheart. I'm happy you're thinking of me, but I hope you're enjoying your idyll with Koutarou and Sho." He paused, asking after a moment, "Did something happen? Do you need to talk about it?"
Kozume glanced down at the sand, digging his toes in slightly and frowning a little, anxiety twisting in his chest. He didn't speak for a long moment, then he murmured quietly, "My mother insisted on meeting us for dinner tomorrow night."
Kuroo hummed softly, and it was a curious, surprised little sound. "Your mother, huh? You don't really talk about your family that much. I remember you mentioned before she was traveling overseas for a while, after divorcing your father?"
"Yes. She came back to the mainland recently. A few months ago."
Kuroo made a soft sound of understanding, then asked gently, "I take it you aren't exactly enthusiastic about your dinner date then?"
Kozume arched his brow, frowning and letting out a sigh. "If it were just the two of us, she would likely be tolerable. With Shouyou and Koutarou here too, I'm worried about what she might say."
"What are you so worried about?" Kuroo asked gently. "What is it you imagine that she could possibly say?"
"She could accuse them of trying to manipulate me, or planning on stealing from me. She could make it seem as if their intentions to bond with me were ultimately insincere." Kozume turned to glance over his shoulder, looking towards the suite nearby where cheery laughter could be heard drifting on the sea breeze. "Shouyou already has a hard time handling his anxiety regarding my status. Having my mother interrogate him about his feelings for me and his intentions now that we are bonded…" He closed his eyes, biting his bottom lip. "I don't want to ruin our idyll by allowing my mother to insult or criticize my bonded. I'm certain Koutarou won't stand for it either. I can't even begin to imagine how embarrassing it will be having to apologize for my mother-"
"Baby. Baby, listen to me. You're getting ahead of yourself." Kuroo crooned soft and deep, trying to offer what comfort he could. "Have you considered that she wants to meet with you and your bondmates because she wasn't invited to your ceremony? Have you considered that her concerns and inquiries may in fact originate from maternal devotion and love?" Kuroo paused for a moment to allow his words to sink in. "She's your mother, Kenma. You assume that things tomorrow will go so badly, but what if it's the opposite? What if she's happy for you? What if she embraces Kou and Shouyou with open arms?"
Kozume worried his lip, nodding slowly. "You're right. You're right, there's always that possibility. It's just...given her history, given the things she's done and said in the past…"
Kuroo hummed softly, "Your concerns are valid, and if the circumstances were my own I would proceed cautiously as well. All I'm suggesting is to give her a chance before becoming defensive." He chuckled softly, his shrug evident in his little sigh. "If in the end you're right and she says something insulting, you don't have to stay. You can get up and walk away from her, right in the middle of dinner if necessary. Her place in your life is a privilege, not a right. You're an adult now, you're bonded. You have a pack, a family, an entire life without her. If she makes the wrong choice, and upsets or embarrasses you or your bonded, she will have to face the consequences. We will all be beside you to support you if you ban her from your life. The decision is yours. You're in control, not her."
Kozume took a deep breath, exhaling slowly, smiling while gingerly nodding his head. "You're right, Tetsurou. Thank you for saying that. I needed to hear it spoken aloud. The decision is mine, I'm in control."
"Absolutely. If she won't give Shouyou or Koutarou a chance, that's her loss. The least you both can do is approach this dinner candidly, and try to come to an understanding as to what role she will play in your life going forward." Kuroo hesitated for a moment before adding, "If things are cordial, and she seems upset at all about not being invited to attend your ceremony, you can always send her copies from the photoshoot with Alisa?"
"That's a good idea. Thank you, Tetsu." Kozume sighed, smiling affectionately and perking his ears up as he heard Hinata's voice, the omega peeking outside in search of him. Kozume hummed quietly to himself, already beginning to walk back towards the balcony to meet him. "Alright, I have to go. I'll call you tomorrow and let you know how everything goes."
"Goodnight, Kitten. Good luck."
"Goodnight." Kozume murmured, disconnecting their call a moment later, reaching out for Hinata as the omega nuzzled into his arms, giggling tipsily while purring happily.
"There you are! Who were you talking to?" He asked cheerily, lacing his fingers with Kozume's and tugging him gently back inside. Bokuto was watching as they approached, the Alpha's cheeks flustered from the wine they'd shared before, and something else Kozume faintly recognized as a hint of arousal. Hinata giggled excitedly while sitting down atop Bokuto's lap, tugging Kozume closer to sit beside them, the beta watching his bondmates fondly while reaching up to card his fingers through Hinata's bright hair.
"I was speaking with Tetsu." Kozume replied softly, Hinata making a happy sound and nuzzling against Kozume's palm, smiling while kissing at his fingertips sweetly.
"Next time we visit the beach we should bring them with us! Tetsu and Keiji, and sweet baby Skye!" He sighed dreamily, purring and pawing at Bokuto's chest while tugging Kozume closer. "We can come back here again sometime, can't we? All of us? That sounds like so much fun!"
Kozume smiled, laughing softly, Bokuto chuckling deeply while taking care not to allow Hinata to tumble from his lap. "Whatever you'd like, Shouyou." Kozume replied gently, watching the omega with a calm, tender smile, Kuroo's voice drifting through his thoughts.
Maybe he was right, maybe there was nothing to worry about. Maybe Kozume was expecting the worst, when really all his mother wanted to do was meet the boys who had bonded to her only son. He closed his eyes, leaning into Hinata's touch as the omega kissed at his nose and cheeks, bringing their lips together gently, breathing against him softly as they huddled close.
Bokuto watched over them with a wide grin, his fangs flashing in the soft reflections of the candlelight nearby, his breath hitching as Hinata squirmed against his lap. The kisses Hinata shared with Kozume gradually grew more heated, a deep purr rumbling in Bokuto's chest as the Alpha watched, licking his upper lip absently. He waited until they parted before dipping down to claim a kiss of his own, Hinata giggling against his lips and clinging to them both, his laughter bubbly and bright.
He pulled away from Bokuto a moment later, a gleam of mischief in his eyes. He held his Alpha's gaze for a long moment, then shifted his eyes to meet Kozume's, biting his bottom lip and whining softly, his face entirely flushed.
"I want to have a baby with you." He whispered breathlessly, his voice airy and light. "I want to make a baby with both of you. Please?"
Kozume's expression softened, and he nodded slowly, petting Hinata's flushed cheek. "Alright, Shouyou. Let's make a baby."
Bokuto crooned deeply, his face just as flushed as Hinata's, and together the three bondmates made their way from the plush, oversized couch in the lounge room down the hallway and into bed.
Thanks for reading! More to come!
