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: Kageyama confides in Hinata.

Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics


Ch 28: Aspect

Hinata smoothed his fingers lightly over the ultrasound images before him once again, examining each of them carefully, sniffing quietly as he blinked away happy tears, his heart bursting with joy.

A boy. They were going to have a boy.

At twelve weeks the baby's growth was progressing steadily, all signs pointing towards an easy pregnancy and a healthy, happy pup. Hinata hadn't experienced any bouts of overwhelming morning sickness so far, just the occasional nausea now and then before breakfast. With any luck, as the baby continued to grow, he would prove to be calm and easy for Hinata to carry.

The doctor had candidly expressed her concerns for Hinata's safety and well-being, carrying a baby to full term given his petite size. They had discussed Hinata's options; a home-birth, birth at the hospital, and the potential for a cesarean if need be, depending on how the pregnancy progressed.

Hinata wasn't worried, full of optimism and giddy excitement. He liked the idea of having a home-birth, with Akaashi and Sugawara acting as his midwives, but he was open to handling things as they came along. He wanted whatever was best for his baby. They still had many months ahead of them to figure out a birth plan.

In the meantime, Akaashi and Sugawara busied themselves planning Hinata's baby shower, the bubbly omega more than happy to be fussed over and doted upon as his tummy began to grow.

At fourteen weeks Hinata had already started picking out names with Bokuto and Kozume's input.

At sixteen weeks Hinata felt his baby move for the first time.

He'd settled on naming the baby Akemi, named after the bright, beautiful dawn. He spoke to his son in earnest whenever he felt those small movements, petting over his rounded tummy and purring happily at the sensation of his little flutters. Akemi responded to his voice each time, Hinata finding indescribable joy in laughing with and singing to his son. He often listened to music while petting over those tiny little movements, pressing his headphones over his baby bump to allow Akemi to listen as well.

Bokuto was with them constantly, always at Hinata's side, always ready and willing to do anything for his bonded should the omega ask. Kozume was calmer about Hinata's pregnancy, but doted on him just as thoroughly. His bondmates cared for him in every waking moment, ensuring he was happy and content, in want of nothing.

Atsumu and Osamu were in and out of the city for several weeks surrounding Hinata's early pregnancy, working together with Kozume's help to finalize building contracts and begin developing blueprints for their future home. They explored their property, plotting out building sites and designing a neighborhood large enough to accommodate their entire pack, openly sharing their ideas with their packmates and making updates accordingly before heading off to the countryside again.

Hinata missed them while they were gone, but it gave him the opportunity to spend time with Kageyama and Shimizu in their stead. As the weeks went by, the beta siblings began spending more and more time with Hinata and his bondmates, gradually integrating into their pack dynamics as close, cherished friends.

Hinata and Kageyama were still exploring their feelings for each other, and while they were comfortable sharing kisses and holding hands they had chosen not pursue intimacy further than that, content to simply enjoy a warm, gentle sweetness between them. It felt perfect just as it was, and they found that for the time being they didn't need anything more. There were times when desire sparked between them, but it lulled into something calm and soft each and every time. Hinata loved cuddling up and napping with Kageyama whenever he possibly could, the beta purring softly and petting over Akemi while humming lullabies, pressing soft kisses between Hinata's ears.

He played guitar for them often, and keyboard on sporadic occasions. Hinata discovered that there were many instruments Kageyama could play; kalimba, violin, keyboard and piano, bass and guitar. He dabbled in whatever caught his interest, writing poetry and scribbling lyrics near constantly, but he struggled with putting together the final touches needed to create actual songs.

"I haven't been able to write anything substantial in years." Kageyama had admitted softly, glancing up from his notebook and meeting Hinata's eyes. "There were a few songs I wrote after first meeting my new bandmates, but I was in a different mindset back then. I was hurt, and alone, and angry." He frowned a little, flicking through his notebook slowly, letting out a quiet sigh. "The songs that you love the most, they were written when I was a part of the original Flightless. Mala'chai and Tulousse helped me write those songs, with heavy influence from our other bandmates. Everything I've ever attempted to write solo since losing them...it just doesn't feel right."

Hinata hummed quietly, perking his ears towards Kageyama and watching as he strummed his guitar, stretching out against the comforter and yawning quietly, listening for sounds of Shimizu cooking dinner in the kitchen. He was quiet for a moment, then reached out to pet along Kageyama's thigh while asking, "Do you think you struggle with writing songs now because you're trying to replicate the feelings you had before?"

Kageyama strummed a few chords, glancing down to meet Hinata's eyes with a little frown. "What do you mean?"

"I mean-" Hinata pushed himself up, propping a pillow behind his lower back and letting out a sleepy sigh, "It's true that my favorite songs are those you wrote with your previous bandmates, but I also adore the songs you and your bandmates play together now." He leaned a little closer, resting his cheek against Kageyama's shoulder while murmuring, "Instead of focusing on the past, and trying to copy the feelings and sound you were part of before, wouldn't it be better to try to create a brand new sound? A completely new you? You aren't the same person you were when you were eighteen. That was practically a lifetime ago." He met Kageyama's eyes, holding his gaze for a long moment before adding gently, "You're clinging to the you that you were before. You have to create music for the you that you are now, Tobio."

Kageyama blinked slowly, absorbing what Hinata had said. It was true, any time he tried to write fresh lyrics or create new melodies everything always reminded him of Mala'chai and the bandmates he had lost. He arched his brow, letting out a soft huff and offering Hinata a little smile, pressing their foreheads together gently while tracing his thumb against the curve of the omega's cheek. "You're right. I know you're right, Sho. It's just...it's hard to let go."

Both Kageyama and Hinata perked up their ears at hearing Shimizu's voice in the kitchen. It sounded as if she were greeting someone, and Hinata smiled excitedly and pushed himself up from the bed, Kageyama setting his guitar aside and following along after him. Bokuto had returned with Kuroo in tow, along with Tsukishima and Yamaguchi, Akaashi trailing after them with Skye babbling in his arms.

"Oh my goodness!" Hinata gasped with a happy smile, "Let me see this handsome young man! You're getting so big!" He wasted no time in stepping forward with outstretched arms to take Skye from Akaashi, the baby squealing excitedly and immediately grasping onto a fistful of Hinata's bright hair, Hinata laughing cheerfully at his antics.

"Gentle, Skye! Gentle!" Akaashi chided with an exasperated sigh, Kuroo chuckling heartily and reaching out to help untangle his son's fingers from Hinata's hair.

Bokuto watched over them with a tender smile, turning towards Shimizu and offering her the casserole he was holding, grinning sheepishly. "Thank you for hosting game night."

Shimizu took the dish from his hands and added it to the table, perking her ears towards her brother as Kageyama came to stand at her side. "Of course! We were happy to." She reached out to pat Bokuto's arm in an affectionate manner, her eyes shifting to Tsukishima and Yamaguchi with friendly curiosity, Bokuto turning to introduce them with a smile.

Kuroo finally managed to untangle Skye's fingers from Hinata's hair, the omega purring and nuzzling against the baby's chubby cheeks before carrying him towards the couch, Akaashi pausing to say hello to Shimizu and Kageyama before following after. Tsukishima and Yamaguchi exchanged friendly greetings with Shimizu and Kageyama as well before moving on to the living room, carrying several board games in hand, setting them down in a pile on the carpet before beginning to sign back and forth.

[Oh this townhouse is simply darling!] Yamaguchi began, looking around with a happy smile before his gaze settled on Hinata. [Gosh, his belly is starting to get big! The last time we saw him, there was barely even a bump!]

[He's just entering his second trimester.] Tsukishima added with a nod of agreement, [It's hard to imagine what it will be like once he reaches his third.]

Yamaguchi grinned excitedly, holding out his arms in a wide bubble around his stomach, glancing up at Hinata and watching his friend with an affectionate gaze. The omega wasn't paying them any attention, too preoccupied with the baby in his arms, speaking back and forth merrily with Akaashi about details of his upcoming baby shower.

"Oh, anything is fine, really! I haven't really had any odd cravings other than a constant craving for sweets, but honestly that's nothing too unusual to begin with!" He laughed cheerily and offered Skye back to Akaashi once the baby reached for his dame fussily, Akaashi shushing him gently and patting his back while holding him against his chest, Skye perking up his tiny ears and watching the Alphas nearby curiously.

Now that he was a little older, his tendency to only allow omegas to hold him was fading away. He was beginning to include the Alphas he spent the most time with in his immediate circle of trusted persons, the pup tugging at Akaashi's shirt and growling playfully before letting out a sharp bark, noisily demanding attention from them both.

Kuroo turned towards the couch immediately, grinning wolfishly and crouching down a bit as he approached his son, growling softly in the back of his throat while Skye's growls rose to challenge him. Bokuto couldn't stop smiling, watching them play while crossing his arms over his broad chest, perking his ears towards the oven before refocusing on Shimizu again.

"It smells really good! What are you baking?"

Shimizu hummed softly, smoothing her hands against her apron and turning to check the kitchen timer, opening the oven briefly before closing it once again. "I'm trying out a new recipe for apple pie, and decided I might as well make a blackberry pie tonight too while I was baking. Osamu brought back several jars of homemade preserves from the local country market the last time he and Atsumu visited." She looked over at Kageyama with a tender smile while adding, "Tobio mentioned Hinata has been craving lots of fruits and sweets."

Bokuto arched his brow, nodding and crooning softly, offering the beta siblings a warm smile. "Thank you so much for taking good care of Shouyou. I know how much he enjoys being here and spending time with you both."

Kageyama's eyes were on Hinata as Bokuto spoke, his expression calm, a small smile teasing up his lips. "We should be thanking him, really." He met Bokuto's eyes, giving the Alpha a little nod. "He brings joy with him whenever he goes. It's a privilege to have his trust, and yours."

Bokuto's expression smoothed at that, the Alpha letting out a soft, contented sigh. He held Kageyama's gaze for a long moment before looking to Shimizu again, combing his fingers through his silver hair while offering gently, "Is there anything I can help with?"

Their voices faded as Kageyama stepped away from the kitchen and towards the living room, watching while Kuroo and Akaashi played with Skye, Hinata laughing and teasing the pup with little sounds and light touches in kind. He seemed to sense Kageyama's gaze as the beta drew closer, glancing up and meeting his eyes, giving him a bright, beautiful smile and beckoning him closer, Kageyama's chest twisting with warmth.

It was always like this, Hinata effortlessly drawing him into the fold, wanting with all of his heart for his packmates to accept Kageyama as one of their own. In the time that had passed since Shimizu and Kageyama had first met Hinata, they had become close enough friends with Hinata's partners and packmates to feel comfortable and safe with one another. There were times, on nights like this, when it felt as if Kageyama and Shimizu were already a part of their pack.

Kageyama stood back for a few moments, his eyes resting on Hinata's outstretched hand, before he started forward with a quiet sigh. Hinata was purring as their hands met, sending little vibrations through their fingertips and palms, Kageyama lacing their fingers and kneeling down beside him, the omega wrapping his arms around Kageyama's shoulders and burying his face against the beta's soft, dark hair.

Kageyama closed his eyes slightly, relaxing into Hinata's embrace, letting everything around them fade away, his mind filled with nothing save for the omega's gentle warmth and happy purrs.

He was drawn back to the present moment by the sound of a knock at the front door, frowning a little and pivoting his ears towards his sister's voice, noting Shimizu's confusion.

"I wonder who that could be. Everyone has already arrived, haven't they?"

Hinata drew away from Kageyama slightly, meeting Bokuto's eyes and asking, "Did Kenma mention he was coming tonight? I thought he was having dinner with his mother?"

"He didn't say anything to me." Bokuto replied with a little shrug, retrieving his phone from his pocket to check his messages, Shimizu padding quietly towards the front door, opening it gingerly to peek outside.

"Artemis?"

Kageyama tensed at that, getting to his feet immediately and heading to the front door, Hinata watching him go worriedly. Bokuto took a step closer to the front door as well, trying to make out what was happening, the entire townhouse quieting as Shimizu spoke with their unexpected guest.

"I need you to take him tonight."

Shimizu was quiet for only a moment before answering. "Of course, has anything happened?"

Kageyama was behind her, watching from a small distance away, a low growl rumbling in his chest. The voice that had spoken before didn't reply, merely sighed heavily and stepped away, Shimizu calling after him.

"Artemis? If something happened, you need to tell me-"

"Let him go." Kageyama said gruffly, walking the short distance to his sister's side and stepping through the door, Shimizu following him outside. Their voices were muffled for a few moments before they returned, the soft sounds of crying clearly audible from the doorway, Hinata immediately getting up from the couch and padding hurriedly to Kageyama's side, ducking his ears back at seeing the distraught child in his arms.

Shimizu was speaking to him softly, the child hiding his face against Kageyama's neck and clinging to his shirt tightly. "Artemis, sweetheart. What's wrong? Can you tell me what's wrong?"

"Shh…" Kageyama whispered gently, soothing Artemis the best he could, rubbing along his back while stepping into the kitchen, Hinata watching his movements carefully. The child was still unresponsive, simply crying and hiding against Kageyama's neck, Shimizu sighing shakily and pressing her hand over her mouth, trying to keep her voice even.

"What should I do? I don't know what to do-"

"I know. I know, I'll handle it." Kageyama muttered in a hushed tone, meeting his sister's eyes for a moment before catching Hinata's eyes briefly, quickly glancing away. He ducked his ears back, swallowing thickly, then turned and walked away, carrying Artemis in the direction of his room without another word.

Kuroo and Bokuto exchanged a glance, stepping closer to comfort Shimizu, Akaashi looking after Kageyama for a long moment before meeting Hinata's eyes, nodding towards the hall. "It's alright. Go to him. We have things handled here."

Hinata nodded quickly, following after Kageyama, allowing his packmates to comfort Shimizu while going to help Kageyama in any way that he could.

He found Kageyama crawling into bed with Artemis still cradled in his arms, Hinata pausing for a moment to assess the situation before making his way to the other side of the bed, climbing in beside them. Like this, he was behind Artemis and facing Kageyama, meeting the beta's eyes while reaching out and smoothing his palm along Artemis' back gently, his heart aching at those soft, uneven hitches of breath accompanied by whimpers and sobs.

Kageyama shushed Artemis gently, pressing kisses to his forehead and nosing between his ears, crooning softly while whispering against his crown, "You're safe with me. You'll always be safe with me, right here in my arms. No one can touch you in this safe space. Nothing can harm you here, not with me watching over you. You're safe here. You're safe."

Hinata listened quietly, smoothing slow circles against Artemis' back and pressing a little closer while starting to purr. Artemis' tears gradually slowed the longer he rested between them, until eventually the pup's breathing evened out and he perked his ears towards the sound of Kageyama's voice, hiccupping softly as he tried to speak.

"A-Apollo bit me." He coughed wetly, sniffing and trying to catch his breath. "H-He bit me, s-so I shoved him off the couch. Then Athena got m-mad at me a-and pulled my ear hard! It hurt!"

Kageyama arched his brow, frowning irritably, reaching up and rubbing Artemis' ears gently, pressing another kiss to his forehead.

"She wouldn't let go, she tried to kick me! I shoved her too, to get her away from me. Ares heard her crying, and he chased me again." He hid his face against Kageyama's chest, little hiccups of breath shuddering through him. "He y-yelled at me! He said he'd hit me if I ever shoved them again." He turned his face to the side, sniffing and knitting his brow before adding, "I said that's not fair, Apollo bit me! He didn't care, he got really mad and scared me." Tears welled up in his eyes, his face scrunching up as he started crying again. "I didn't mean to, I didn't! He scared me, and I had an accident-"

"That's not your fault, Arte. That's not your fault, you understand me?" Kageyama cupped Artemis' wet cheeks, holding his eyes and speaking to him gently. "He's older than you, and an Alpha. He shouldn't have threatened you, or made you submit like that. It's not your fault you had an accident, okay? I don't want you thinking for a moment that was in any way your fault."

"Baba was mad." Artemis sniffed, his voice incredibly small. "Last time, Baba said they would send me to that school if I messed up again." He clung to Kageyama tightly, his breath coming in choked whines. "I don't want to go away. I don't want to go there! I'm scared!"

"You're not going anywhere without me, okay?" Kageyama said softly, kissing his crown and crooning soft and deep. "Not for a moment, not for one second. You'll never be away from me, you understand? You're not going away. You're staying right here with me, okay?"

"O-Okay." Artemis said shakily, sniffing and hugging Kageyama's neck while crying softly, the beta holding him tightly and meeting Hinata's eyes.

Hinata watched them quietly, still rubbing circles against Artemis' back, reaching out and carding his fingers gently though Kageyama's hair with his other hand, the beta gingerly leaning into his touch. They rested together until Artemis' tears quieted, the pup breathing slow and deep while cradled between them, Kageyama rubbing his ears slowly while watching him sleep, Hinata watching them both with a soft smile.

Kageyama was quiet for a long moment, then hesitantly he met Hinata's eyes. He held his gaze for a long drawn out moment, then his brow pinched and he whispered so softly Hinata almost couldn't hear, "He's mine. Mine and Kiyoko's."

Hinata inhaled softly, humming quietly and shifting a little closer, tentatively brushing his fingertips up Kageyama's wrist and forearm. "Do you want to talk about it?"

Kageyama was quiet for a while, thinking of how much he wanted to say, and how to say it. Eventually he let out a heavy sigh and arched his brow a bit, closing his eyes and pressing his nose between Artemis' ears, asking softly, "You don't think it's disgusting? Now that you know?"

Hinata perked his ears at that, his brow arching and a soft breath of laughter escaping him. "What? Why would you think that?" Kageyama frowned a little, carefully meeting his eyes again. Hinata tilted his head slightly, holding his gaze, reaching up to smooth his palm against Kageyama's shoulder and arm while asking, "Why would I ever feel that way when I'm partnered with Atsu and Osu?"

"What do you mean?" Kageyama asked, not understanding. Hinata's eyes widened and he blinked in surprise, the omega pushing himself up slightly and tilting his ears to and fro before focusing on Kageyama once again.

"They're-" He paused, shaking his head lightly and squeezing Kageyama's upper arm. "Tobio, have they not told you? Haven't they talked to you about it already?"

"About what?" Kageyama frowned, his brow still pinched with concern.

Hinata drew back his hand, covering his mouth to muffle his laughter, his expression smoothing into something amused and affectionate. When he managed to reign in his laughter, he let out a soft sigh, leaning closer to kiss Kageyama's temple, purring softly against his ear, "Atsumu and Osamu are intimate with each other, Tobio. We're all intimate together."

He drew back enough to meet Kageyama's incredulous expression, muffling his laughter again and offering an apologetic if not amused smile.

"I'm sorry! I honestly thought you knew already, otherwise I would have mentioned it before!" He shook his head slowly, reaching out and carding his fingers through Kageyama's hair, gauging his reaction. "How long have you been keeping this a secret? Who else knows?"

"No one." Kageyama breathed softly, still trying to process Hinata's revelation. "I mean, I think Yuu suspects, given how close we are, but we've never talked openly about it with anyone." He blinked slowly, shaking his head and thinking for a moment before letting out a quiet chuckle of disbelief. "You're...you're the first person I've ever told. I've never told anyone before, not in my entire life." He glanced up again, meeting Hinata's eyes. "Not even Chai."

Hinata's breath hitched at that, and he leaned closer to press their foreheads together gently, purring all the while. "I don't think it's disgusting. I think it's beautiful that the two of you love one another and trust one another so deeply. What you do together when you're alone with one another isn't anyone else's concern. As long as you're both happy, that's truly all that matters."

He cupped Kageyama's cheeks, smiling and offering him a soft kiss.

"The level of intimacy you choose to share with your partners is between you and them, no one else. I've never believed that being born as siblings should somehow negate that. Why should it?" He threaded his fingers through Kageyama's dark hair, searching his eyes with a tender smile. "You've loved one another your entire lives, you know one another better than anyone else possibly could. What greater love is there?"

Kageyama nodded slowly, breathless with emotion. He hadn't anticipated being accepted so easily after revealing such a taboo secret. He'd taken a leap of faith by exposing such raw vulnerability so suddenly, not knowing how Hinata might react to being told something like that. To be accepted wholeheartedly, and assured that in no way were he and Shimizu alone, it made Kageyama feel valid, and whole.

He ducked his head, sniffing quietly, warm tears trailing slowly down his cheeks. He'd wanted this, more than anything. He'd wanted to confess his darkest secrets to someone he loved, and have them accept him and love him still.

He'd been so afraid that speaking those words would twist everything horribly, and Chai's feelings for him would change. He'd never had the courage to tell him the truth before losing him.

Hinata wasn't Chai. There was no one else like Hinata in the entire world.

"Thank you." Kageyama breathed out, his shoulders shaking as he tried to push back his tears, his voice trembling with emotion. "Thank you. Thank you."

Hinata purred happily, nosing at Kageyama's ears and kissing his forehead, whispering gently as the beta cried, "Your son is beautiful. He's beautiful, Tobio. You're such a caring, gentle father. You calmed him down so well. Listening to you soothe him, it touched my heart."

"I want to be a good dad." Kageyama whispered softly, nosing at Artemis' ears, breathing against him shakily. "I don't want him living there anymore, with Kiyoko's sire. I want him to stay with us, but I'm afraid I'll fuck something up. I'm so afraid I'll do something wrong, and end up making things worse for him."

He peeked up at Hinata, his eyes wet and dark.

"I don't want him to hate it here. I don't want him to regret his life with us."

"He won't." Hinata whispered tenderly, slowly shaking his head. "He could never regret being here with you. Never. He loves you so much. He trusts you more than anything."

Hinata combed his fingers through the cropped hair at Kageyama's nape, giving him a reassuring smile.

"It's a learning process, being a parent. You're allowed to make mistakes. What matters is that you learn and grow from them; you communicate openly and apologize, and move forward together. You never stop trying, you never give up no matter how hard it gets. That's what being a good dad is, Tobio." He perked his ears up and laughed brightly, watching Kageyama with an affectionate smile. "I can tell just by watching the two of you, you want to be a good dad to him. That genuine want means everything. That's an amazing start."

"Yeah…" Kageyama breathed, nodding and kissing at Hinata's fingertips as the omega wiped at his damp cheeks. He was quiet for a while, listening to Artemis' breathing and Hinata's purrs, before he frowned and reached for his pocket, carefully withdrawing his phone. "I can't believe that Atsumu never said anything to me-"

"They're cautious about revealing that part of themselves too." Hinata said gently, a little smile teasing his lips. "Though, as close as they are to you two, I think they may have been waiting to see if one of you would mention something first? They aren't exactly subtle about flirting with one another y'know."

Kageyama blushed, pouting a little as he sent Atsumu a quick text. "I always thought they were playing around with one another! I never thought to take them seriously-"

The reply was almost instant, Kageyama's phone vibrating as a series of texts came through, Hinata jumping lightly at feeling his own phone buzz in his pocket, grinning impishly while rolling over slightly to text the twins back as well.

They exchanged texts with the Alphas while sharing soft smiles and quiet laughter, messaging back and forth for some time before returning to one another again, Kageyama's expression calm and relieved, Hinata's happy as warm.

Hinata shifted closer to wrap his arms carefully around Artemis, snuggling up against the pup's back and tilting his face up to offer Kageyama a kiss, the beta blushing lightly and dipping down to meet him.

Hinata breathed against him slowly, and then in a soft, sweet murmur he confessed gently, "I love you, Tobio. I want to be with you, always."

Kageyama's breath hitched and he searched Hinata's eyes, petting over the omega's side gently. He watched Hinata for a long moment before dipping his ears back a bit, a hint of nervousness in his tone as he replied, "I...I want to be with you too, Shouyou."

Hinata smiled gently, his expression soft as he hummed quietly, nodding and closing his eyes, a light blush dusting his cheeks. He didn't press further, didn't say anything more, settling down with Kageyama and letting out a soft yawn, his breathing deepening as he dozed off.

Kageyama watched over him quietly, his heart fluttering and twisting, caught between two overwhelming emotions. A part of him was elated at hearing those words, at hearing Hinata say that he loved him and wanted to be with him, but another part of him was absolutely terrified of giving his heart to Hinata and somehow tragically losing him too.

He wanted to say it back, he wanted Hinata to know his feelings were reciprocated, but the words were caught tightly in the back of his throat.

Hinata seemed content, at least for now, and so Kageyama tried to push away those feelings of uncertainty and guilt, focusing on his son, closing his eyes and breathing in his scent, his fingers curling against the fabric of Hinata's soft sweater.

They were left alone for a while, simply resting beside one another, until footsteps gingerly approached, and Bokuto peeked into the bedroom to check on Kageyama and his mate. The Alpha was quiet as he watched them together, his eyes on the child sleeping between them before he glanced over his shoulder to watch Shimizu's approach. She offered him a little smile, reaching out and placing her hand on his arm while peeking in on her brother as well, letting out a soft contented sigh at seeing they were all resting peacefully side by side.

"Shall we let them rest a little longer?" She whispered quietly, and Bokuto hummed and stepped away to return to their friends, Shimizu lingering for a moment longer before following quietly after him.

Bokuto returned to his place at Kuroo's side, Akaashi reclining against his mate's chest as Skye rested in his arms, watching the adults around him while chewing at a teething toy. Shimizu settled down on the carpet beside Yamaguchi and Tsukishima again, picking up the small plate of half-eaten pie she had left behind, taking another bite and letting out a quiet sigh, watching the two companions sign back and forth while setting up their board game together. She tried to follow their movements, she'd taken a few classes before in high school and recalled some of the basics, but their gestures were fluid in a way she was unfamiliar with, and so their words were a mystery to her for the most part.

Tsukishima pointed towards the deck of cards in the middle of the board before offering Yamaguchi a set of dice, the freckled beta nodding his understanding and making adjustments accordingly, glancing up at Tsukishima with a smile once he was finished. He looked over at Shimizu when she lifted her hands, his ears tilting towards her as she slowly signed a question, the beta smiling and laughing softly before nodding and replying aloud.

"Don't worry about that! We'll teach you how things work as we go along! It seems complicated if you just read the instructions, it's much easier playing it out hands-on." He gave her a bright smile and nodded as she signed her thanks, and with a soft chuckle Yamaguchi looked to Tsukishima, the blonde watching their exchange with a smile and gesturing to the board again while meeting his companion's eyes. Yamaguchi leaned a little closer, crossing his legs under himself and drawing a card, flipping it over and tucking it away beneath the edge of the board, giving Tsukishima a little wink. "Alright Tsukki! Your move!"

Kuroo watched with interest, perking his ears up and grinning impishly as Bokuto pressed closer, nuzzling against the curve of his ear. Akaashi felt their movements, glancing up at them both while quirking a brow, an amused smile teasing across his lips. Kuroo met his eyes, giving him a little smirk and kissing his temple, Akaashi sighing softly and looking to Bokuto next, the taller Alpha grinning sheepishly and chuckling under his breath, petting along Kuroo's side gently. They were both restless, and Akaashi knew why. He'd had his implant removed the weekend before, and both Alphas were eager to share intimacy with him as his body returned to its natural alignment. It was almost time for Kuroo's rut.

"Behave." Akaashi whispered under his breath, Kuroo crooning softly and Bokuto blushing lightly but grinning all the same. He ducked his head to press a kiss against Kuroo's shoulder, the dark Alpha tilting his face up and kissing Bokuto's jaw affectionately.

"Sorry 'Kaashi." Bokuto murmured softly, Kuroo grinning and chuckling as well, the Alphas nuzzling one another and sharing their scents, Skye watching them curiously before reaching out to them both with a series of bubbly laughter.

The night waned on, and after a few rounds of the game Kageyama quietly made his way down the hall and into the kitchen, rubbing at his eyes tiredly and letting out a soft yawn. He examined the food sitting along the kitchen countertops, picking up a chicken skewer and reclining against the counter while taking a few bites, Shimizu standing up from her place beside Akaashi and Skye to go and speak with her brother, the dark omega watching their exchange with a little smile.

Kuroo leaned closer, whispering against his mate's ear curiously, "What do you think?"

Akaashi's ear flicked lightly, his eyes shifting to the way Shimizu reached for Kageyama's hand, and the looks they exchanged before Kageyama shifted to wrap his arm around her waist, pulling her close. He let out a soft breath, humming curiously as well and shrugging lightly, glancing up to meet his bonded's gaze. "We shouldn't assume anything until they speak of it." He paused briefly, petting across Kuroo's chest while adding quietly, "With that being said, I can certainly see various aspects between them that would suggest as much."

Kuroo nodded, smiling and nuzzling into Akaashi's dark hair, breathing in his sweet scent before glancing towards Bokuto as the other Alpha pushed up from the carpet and padded down the hall, obviously intent on checking on his bondmate before resuming their game.

Akaashi watched him go as well, a little smile teasing across his lips. It felt like home here, surrounded by loved ones, casually playing games together and spending time with their cherished friends. He looked towards the siblings in the kitchen once more, then murmured softly so only Kuroo could hear, "I wonder if everyone would agree that we should extend an invitation? To officially invite them into our pack?"

Kuroo chuckled softly, reclining back a bit while letting out a happy sigh, slowly nodding. He looked over at Tsukishima and Yamaguchi next, grinning impishly while replying, "I've considered asking those two to officially join our pack as well. It makes sense doesn't it? Now that we're building a community together?"

Akaashi hummed his agreement, smiling and nodding, perking his ears towards the hall as he heard footsteps approaching. Bokuto was there, walking slowly towards the living room while looking back over his shoulder, Hinata smiling happily and taking care to watch his step while carrying Artemis against his chest, giving his packmates a little wave in greeting.

Kageyama and Shimizu stepped over to meet him, Shimizu reaching out and taking Artemis from him carefully, the sleepy pup whining softly while hiding his face against his mother's neck. Shimizu cradled the back of his head gently, purring softly while petting along his back and peppering kisses against his temple and forehead, Kageyama reaching out and petting along Artemis' back as well.

Hinata watched them for a long moment before Bokuto drew his attention, taking his hand gently and gesturing towards the food nearby, the omega grinning and nodding enthusiastically before stepping closer to make himself a plate. Bokuto helped however he could, grabbing a drink from the fridge and following after his mate dutifully as Hinata padded into the living room and found a spot beside Yamaguchi on the carpet, leaning closer to examine their progress on their current game while taking little bites of casserole.

Bokuto sat down beside him, watching over him quietly and smiling to himself as Hinata ate and spoke back and forth with his friends, Tsukishima offering the omega a set of dice and adding a pawn to the board so Hinata could play along as well, the omega grinning excitedly and shaking the dice between his cupped palms before dropping them atop the board with a clatter.

Artemis woke up gradually, Kageyama and Shimizu sitting with him at the table as he ate and explained to his mother what had happened earlier that night, Kageyama listening quietly and watching Shimizu's reactions as she listened to Artemis talk about being bullied by his half-siblings. Her eyes were glassy, her mouth pressed into a firm line, and once he was done speaking she wrapped her arms around him gently and held him close against her chest, whispering promises and reassurances.

"You aren't going away, sweetheart." Shimizu whispered gently, carding her nails through his hair while meeting Kageyama's eyes. "We'll figure this out. I'll speak with Artemis tomorrow-"

"I want him to stay with us." Kageyama said gently, holding his sister's eyes, Shimizu's brow arching with concern and uncertainty, Kageyama reaching out and petting her forearm lightly. "He'll be safe here. I'll take care of him, I promise I'll do everything I can to help you with whatever you need." He leaned a little closer, pressing their foreheads together gently. "Please, Kiyoko? I want him here with us. I want to start acting like a father, like I should have all along."

Artemis was listening to them quietly, his ears perking up as he asked, "I can stay here? With you?"

Shimizu was quiet, considering, her ears tilting back slightly before perking once again. "He has school there, and all of his belongings-"

"We can transfer him to a public school here, can't we?" Kageyama asked softly, holding her eyes. "Whatever he needs, I'll provide for him. No matter what it takes. As long as he stays with us, that's all that matters."

Artemis reached for Kageyama, the pup perking his ears and asking with a breathless little smile, "Can I stay with you? Really?"

"Is that what you want?" Kageyama asked, Shimizu cupping Artemis' cheek and petting over his smile affectionately, happy tears gathering in her dark lashes as she let out a shaky sigh.

"Will that make you happy, darling?" She asked gently, and Artemis nodded and reached out to hug them both, Shimizu and Kageyama wrapping their arms around him and one another, hugging their son close between them.

Once they had a little time to collect themselves, they rejoined their friends. Kageyama and Shimizu watched over Artemis carefully while he interacted with the adults around him, Skye watching the new arrival with a curious little pout, babbling fussily and tugging at Akaashi's shirt before snorting loudly and fixing Artemis in his sights again.

Akaashi laughed quietly, Hinata leaning a little closer and asking teasingly, "What's that, Skye? Are you jealous there's someone else here getting attention besides you?" He gasped dramatically, Skye watching him curiously, cracking a smile as Hinata giggled brightly and tickled across his side. "Are you jealous? Huh big guy?"

Skye perked his ears towards the omega's voice, watching him with wide eyes and exclaiming loudly before reaching out to Hinata with both hands, Akaashi offering his son to Hinata with an affectionate sigh. Skye grabbed onto Hinata as soon as he was within reach, clinging to the omega's fingers tightly and biting at one with a little growl, Hinata laughing and wiggling his fingers against Skye's grasp. Bokuto watched the pup with a wide grin, leaned closer and crooning soft and deep, drawing Skye's attention as well.

Artemis watched them with quiet interest, Akaashi smiling down at the child beside him and offering his hand, speaking to him in a calm, quiet tone. "Hello there. It's nice to meet you, Artemis."

"Hello." He replied quietly, shying away from Akaashi's gaze and hiding against Shimizu's side slightly, peeking up at Akaashi and Kuroo now and then before his eyes wandered to Bokuto and Hinata, then back to the clatter of dice across the board game while Tsukishima and Yamaguchi signed back and forth. He perked his ears up a little, tugging at Shimizu's dress while asking softly, "Mama, that's like what Aphrodite is learning?"

Shimizu hummed softly, nodding and tucking some of Artemis' dark hair away from his eyes. "That's right, Artemis. That's sign language. It's so they can speak to one another without hearing."

Artemis nodded slowly, resting his cheek against her arm and holding onto her fingers tightly. "They're really fast…" He whispered, Kuroo and Akaashi chuckling together and exchanging a glance before Kuroo held out a hand, waving to his friends to get their attention, Yamaguchi pausing and smiling over at him while Tsukishima gave Kuroo a questioning look.

"It sounds like Artemis is interested in sign." He gave Yamaguchi a little wink, adding, "Do you want to teach him some basics?" He signed along with his words as he spoke, Yamaguchi's eyes lighting up immediately as he turned his attention to the child watching them, Tsukishima smiling and tilting his ears towards the pup as well.

Yamaguchi gave Artemis a bright smile, signing slowly while saying aloud, "My name-"

Artemis watched him with wide eyes, lifting his hands gingerly and trying to repeat Yamaguchi's movements. "My name-"

The freckled beta nodded encouragingly, "-is Artemis." He signed the name as if drawing back a bowstring, repeating the movement until the pup mirrored him successfully, lowering his hands and gesturing for Artemis to try on his own.

Artemis was watching Yamaguchi with a shy smile, repeating the signs he had just been taught with utmost care. "My - name - is - Artemis."

Kuroo, Yamaguchi, and Tsukishima lifted their hands, giving silent applause while Artemis watched them with a little smile, repeating their movements, his small fingers fluttering against the air.

"Good job, sweetie." Shimizu praised, petting Artemis' back gently while glancing over to meet her brother's eyes, Kageyama sighing contentedly at seeing Artemis' smile and pressing a soft kiss against her cheek.

"Very good!" Yamaguchi praised, grinning and signing as he spoke, "I've been teaching another student sign recently, and if he had half of your enthusiasm I'm sure we would be making astounding progress!" He sighed, a sad little smile lingering on his lips as he arched his brow, his tone strained yet affectionate. "It's hard for him, being blind as well. He has to learn everything by touch."

Artemis' eyes were wide, the child resting against his mother's side while asking with hesitant curiosity, "He can't see anything? Or hear?"

Yamaguchi nodded, "He can hear some things, but it's still very muffled and soft." He reclined back a bit, meeting Tsukishima's eyes and letting out a soft sigh before continuing, "He has another surgery at the end of the week, actually. I forgot to mention it before. I'll be at the hospital all weekend."

"That's alright." Tsukishima replied softly, offering Yamaguchi an understanding smile. "Let me know if there's anything I can do to help."

Yamaguchi nodded, casting his eyes across the gameboard and murmuring softly, "I hope this time the surgery proves successful. Aural surgery is hard on pteropines, and Shy's already been through so much-"

"What did you say?" Kageyama asked suddenly, his ears perking towards Yamaguchi, his voice trembling as he stammered out again, "What...What did you say?"

Hinata's eyes widened as well, noting Kageyama's sudden hitch of breath and the desperate expression across his face, looking to Yamaguchi and reaching out to touch his arm while asking calmly, "Tadashi? What did you say about your student?"

Yamaguchi tilted his head slightly, watching Hinata curiously, "The patient I've been spending time with at the hospital?"

Hinata nodded, "You said he's a pteropine? What was his name?"

"Shy." Yamaguchi repeated, glancing up and noticing Kageyama's expression for the first time, Hinata looking towards Kageyama as well.

"Shy. His name is Shy." Hinata repeated clearly, frowning a little and arching his brow while offering Skye to Bokuto to hold, pushing up from the carpet and going to Kageyama's side, kneeling down beside him and lacing their fingers gently. "Are you okay? Tobio?"

"Yeah." Kageyama breathed quietly, blinking a few times and glancing away. Hinata could feel him shivering. "Yeah, I'm sorry. I just-" He reached up to card his fingers through his hair slowly, Shimizu watching him with quiet concern. "I thought for a second you said...something different. I'm sorry, Yamaguchi."

"It's okay." Hinata said softly, holding onto his hand tightly. "Are you okay? Is there something I can do?"

"I just need some air." Kageyama murmured softly, offering Yamaguchi an apologetic smile and getting to his feet, Hinata watching him go for only a moment before following after his footsteps silently.

He had heard from Atsumu about what had happened that night, when he had found Kageyama on the streets. He wasn't about to leave him alone in the dark with his thoughts. Not for a moment.

Kageyama was quiet as Hinata stepped out onto the porch beside him, exhaling against the cool air and closing his eyes while the omega twined their fingers gently, pressing closer against Kageyama's side.

They didn't say anything, simply standing together in the dark and looking out across the city lights, the grey horizon illuminated with glimmering skyscrapers and towering office buildings reflecting neon lights from the busy streets below.

Kageyama let out a quiet groan as he pressed his hand over his eyes, rubbing at his brow gingerly. "Shai'lo was Chai's sister's name. It makes sense I guess, that there would be another pteropine named Shai out there in the world."

Hinata listened quietly to his pronunciation, the slight accent that manifested in his words. "Mala'chai and Shai'lo. They're both pretty names."

Kageyama hummed his agreement softly, squeezing Hinata's fingers while adding quietly, "I never met her, Chai's older sister. She died on their crossing to the mainland. He lost his parents and his sister to the ocean on the same night. Mala'chai was the only one who made it across alive, clinging to bits of debris. The storm that destroyed their raft carried him all the way to the shore."

Hinata listened quietly, barely breathing as Kageyama spoke.

"He was always afraid of the water. He never learned to swim, being anywhere near deep water gave him panic attacks to the point of becoming physically ill." Kageyama rubbed at his temples gingerly for a moment longer before letting his hand drop, his eyes on the horizon. "There were sleepless nights when his night-terrors would ravage him so badly he'd avoid baths the following days. Being submerged in any amount of water made him remember what it was like drifting at sea alone. Dehydrated. Starving. Losing strength." He swallowed thickly, his face scrunching up at the thought of it, his words trembling as he went on. "He told me he started hallucinating from drinking too much salt water at one point, forced to relive watching his family drown over and over again."

Hinata ducked his ears back, his chest twisting tightly, Kageyama's breath coming in short gasps as the tears he'd tried to hold back slowly began to drip down his face.

"I failed him. I failed him. I left him there, I let him drown-"

"Tobio-"

"I was supposed to be his safe place!" Kageyama curled in on himself, crushing his hand over his chest, choking out brokenly, "I left him behind in the dark-"

"Tobio! Look at me!" Hinata whispered sternly, taking Kageyama's hands, tugging gently while looking up into his eyes. "What happened was an accident. A terrible accident. It was not your fault. You have to forgive yourself-"

"I don't deserve-" He choked on a sob, covering his face with his hands, Hinata clinging to his wrist and forearm lightly, petting over his chilled skin, tears biting at the corners of his eyes. "I don't deserve to be forgiven for something like this! It haunts me! I still can't-" He shook his head, sliding down against the side of the townhouse to crumple against the porch. "I can't breathe without him! I don't know how I'm ever going to-" He shook his head, his ears flattened against his skull, Hinata kneeling down beside him and wrapping his arms tightly around Kageyama's shoulders, listening to his sobs.

"I love you." Hinata whispered softly, swallowing past the knot in his throat. "I love you, Tobio. I love you so much it aches. Seeing you like this, knowing the guilt and regret you carry with you every day-" He grit his teeth, forcing out with a hint of a growl, "Chai wouldn't want this! He wouldn't want his memory to make you feel this way!"

"I know! I know!" Kageyama sobbed miserably, taking one of Hinata's hands and grasping it in his own, "I don't know how to do this! I don't know how to move on!"

Hinata watched him worriedly, blinking back his tears, thinking of everything he'd learned tonight, realizing what it all meant.

Kageyama wasn't stable enough, mentally or emotionally, to take care of Artemis, and Shimizu wasn't capable of raising a child by herself without his help. That was why their son was still living with Shimizu's sire, instead of with them.

I want to be a good dad.

Hinata closed his eyes, exhaling a slow, deep breath, smoothing his palm along Kageyama's upper arm while squeezing his fingers tightly.

"I'll help you." Hinata whispered, leaning closer to press his nose to Kageyama's ear. "Do you hear me, Tobio? I'll help you. I'll be your safe place."

The beta didn't respond for several moments, but gradually he uncurled just enough to let Hinata inside, the omega pressing against his chest and kissing away his tears, whispering to him gently, gradually coaxing him into calm.

Kageyama's broken sobs faded to quiet hiccups and shaky breaths, the beta sniffing and blinking tiredly while Hinata drew back enough to meet his eyes, the omega purring softly and nosing at his cheek.

"I love you." Hinata whispered, his fingers curling against Kageyama's. "Do you trust me?"

Kageyama exhaled slowly, the last of his tears trailing down his flushed cheeks. "I trust you." He whispered, and it held all the emotions he couldn't say, as if he had repeated back those other three words instead.

Hinata smiled, his expression smoothing and his cheeks rosy as he pressed close again once more, purring softly and carding his fingers through Kageyama's dark hair, kissing him gently.

Kageyama exhaled shakily against his lips, wrapping his arms around the omega soothing him so sweetly it hurt. He clung to him so tightly he felt as if he couldn't breathe, and then with a shudder everything inside of him relaxed, and he let himself surrender completely to Hinata's endless warmth.


Thanks for reading! More to come!