Lover come back

Summary: Ten years into a successful career, Kagami decides it's time to return home. Being a professional NBA player wasn't easy, and certain connections fell apart - or so it seemed.


Upon his return to Japan, Kagami's fame greeted him in abundance. He landed at the airport with a security detail, and was yet again surprised to see the crowd of fans holding signs up welcoming him. He gave them a polite wave as he was escorted to his ride. He checked his phone, and pulled up a map to determine if they were headed in the right direction. He kept the apartment bought for him all those years ago, and despite returning annually he still got lost quite easily.

"Thanks," he said to his driver as he disembarked the vehicle. He entered the complex with ease, thankful that he lost the crowds. The quiet was welcome and he tossed his bag beside his couch and keys into a nearby bowl.

He turned the television on and was greeted by news of his return, he chuckled at the photo they used and turned to use the shower.

Basketball superstar Kagami Taiga returns to Japan today after a stellar career with the NBA. Being one of the few Japanese players in the series, his career is closely watched.

We've been hearing rumors of retirement.

Is that so? At 10 years, I wouldn't be surprised if his body is catching up to him – he plays like a beast.

It's no wonder he survived the NBA for this long.

We're wondering what keeps him coming back to Japan. We heard his family's mostly in the states, with an estranged brother who plays basketball here – a Tatsuya Himuro, who is also an excellent player.

If it's not his family, it's probably a woman.

It's true, he's been out and about with a few women overseas.

Kuroko watched the news segment with an amused smirk, he pat Nigou who was snuggling by his side. In all the years he'd known Kagami nothing ever got in the way of his basketball career. It was admirable, he reflected. Kuroko returned to the novel open in front of him. His phone suddenly buzzed and he flipped it open to a text from Kise.

Is he really back? It's great 'cus I'm in town too! We should meet up! Followed by a chain of emojis.

Kuroko chuckled at Kise's unchanged enthusiasm, realizing that as they grew older they had seen each other less and less. He quickly typed a return message but was interrupted by a phone call.


The next day marked the beginning of spring. Buds of cherry blossoms began to poke through a few trees, dotting white along greens. There was a fresh breeze blowing through the town which Kuroko had decided not to leave. At one point many years ago, his notoriety as the sixth man gained him offers to coach basketball at the national level. Despite his love for it, Kuroko passed on the opportunities, preferring instead to work with children, finding that fostering the love was more rewarding than coaching stubborn adults. Where he felt it fit, he did the odd consulting job referred to him by Riko or her father.

"Kuroko-chi!" Exclaimed Kise from behind him, and subsequently nearly tackled the smaller man over upon catching up. "It's so great to see you! You look great!"

Kuroko looked up at Kise, the chameleon fashion icon now sporting shoulder length hair held in place by a metal headband, with smaller tresses escaping and landing over his eyes. The previous boy-charm that attracted agencies had turned into the heart-throb middle-aged looks that resembled more American tastes than Japanese. He mostly lived in LA, but returned to Japan on a whim to see family and friends.

"Aren't you afraid of your fans seeing you?" Kuroko said, pushing Kise off as he spoke.

Kise paused and looked around. "Well, my security is nearby. And if anything, we can just run!" He grinned. "Where are the rest?"

"The usual place, I just thought I'd enjoy a nice walk alone beforehand."

"Aw don't be so mean," Kise said, slinging an arm over Kuroko's shoulders. "I'm surprised you're not as excited as I am, especially since Kagami-chi will be around."

If Kuroko was affected at all by the statement, it didn't show. Kise let out a bored sigh and leaned more weight into Kuroko.

"You're heavy, Kise-kun."

"Leave him alone you idiot," a voice from behind said.

"Ah! Aomine-chi!" Kise exclaimed, turning to climb onto the other male instead.

"Cut that shit out, you're nearly 30 and still doing this crap?" Aomine placed a large hand on Kise's face and pushed him away.

Kise pouted, and turned away. He hated it when his age was pointed out.

"You've hurt his feelings, Aomine-kun."

"I don't know that that's possible," Aomine replied with a huff.

Aomine still currently played for the Japanese national team, taking them multiple times to the Olympics and at the international level. Though his skill nearly matched Kagami's, they rarely saw each other professionally. Aomine and Kise enjoyed a mostly casual relationship, if it could be called one. Kise claims that his numerous girlfriends were just hobbies while he was away, and Aomine did much the same. If they were planning on being serious, there was no sign.

The silence from Kise was slowly becoming unbearable.

Aomine side-eyed the blonde and then pulled him into his arm. Kise lit up and nearly jumped into Aomine who caught him with ease and gently placed him down.

"You're weak, Aomine-kun."

"Knock that off!" Aomine exploded. Kise ignored it, enjoying Aomine's attention above all else.

They walked amicably in silence for a moment.

"So what, is Kagami going to be here today?"

"I don't know."

"You don't know? Don't you guys talk?"

"We're not like you and Kise."

Kise and Aomine exchanged a look.

"You're not?"

"Ah they're here!" Momoi exclaimed.

She ran towards Kuroko, leaving Akashi and Midorima behind. Kuroko smiled at her and they exchanged a brief greeting. Momoi did some consulting work like Kuroko did, but found her skills more suited towards research and marketing. She was pleased to be seated highly at her current position, which unfortunately traded her free time with the boys so this was also the first she'd seen of the team for nearly a year. Momoi's feelings for Kuroko faded with time, significantly so as she grew older and realized that she deserved a man who wanted her in return.

Akashi walked over, a friendly smile on his face.

"It has been a while, Tetsuya."

Kuroko looked up at him. The last they had seen of each other was after what Akashi insisted was a successful date. Kuroko thought otherwise. Akashi spoke mostly about his endeavors running his father's company and how basketball had become a hobby more than anything else. They even shared a good night kiss, and while Kuroko could admit that he enjoyed the way Akashi could take charge in such a situation, he just wasn't interested in a relationship with the guy. Upon further thought Kuroko realized they would have worked well enough together, though it meant that he'd be coaching Akashi on how to be a nurturing partner above all.

"Akashi-kun." Kuroko replied with a polite nod.

Besides, he was into someone else.

Midorima looked at the exchange with curiosity. He and Akashi enjoyed a friendly rivalry, however as the years went by, they didn't have a chance to interact while he worked through medical school. In fact, Midorima only recently finished his surgical residency. Basketball was a careful past-time for him, he was mindful to protect his hands while partaking in the hobby. His husband, Takao, made sure of this, taping his hands gingerly before every game, being a doctor himself in a different field.

"Did something happen?" He asked with interest.

Akashi shook his head, his smile still intact. "Less than I hoped," he replied. "I'll tell you more later."

Murasakibara dusted himself off as Himuro collected the wrappers of his snacks and tossed them into a nearby trashcan.

"Are we ready to play?" He asked with a yawn.

Murasakibara looked down at Kuroko with the same blank expression he gave all others. Like the last two, he chose a path away from sports and towards a profession that kept his interest above all – food. A locally famous chef, he was en route to opening locations nationally. Himuro acted as management, sharing a cut of the profits, having a budding business career of his own. Murasakibara couldn't complain about having him around so closely, in fact, most of his colleagues would say he was on his best behavior only when Himuro was around. Himuro didn't mind either, he enjoyed the giant, and was an inspiration for many of his partner's famous dishes.

"Kuroko, I heard he's returned to Japan." Himuro said, stepping into the circle.

"Yes." Kuroko replied, setting down his bag and book on the shared bench.

"It's been a while, no?"

It had been a while.

Kagami spent the last few years in America.

Kuroko had no ties to him, really. He followed his career closely, as he always did with players that he found interesting. The first year or so after he left, Kagami would call regularly, update Kuroko often by text, and visit during the holidays. They talked about strategy, played a bit together and spent time in friendly company.

The rest of the group began debating teams, because Kise began to assign members without asking for anyone's permission.

Kagami eventually fell off the face of the earth. One year his team was blazing through the NBA series, and Kuroko understood, settling for the games on his television, watching Kagami's plays and sometimes having his friends over during the quarter finals, then the semi-finals.

After that, though, much to Kuroko's disappointment, Kagami never contacted again.

Kuroko never held it against his friends. He was used to being forgotten. It came with the territory, being a self-proclaimed shadow, he was suited to the lifestyle. When he said goodbye at the airport, he knew the risk. He still believed it was worth it.

Did he miss Kagami?

Often enough. Especially in the summer evenings when he had a chance to practice and play a bit on his own. At times Aomine would join him, easily playing circles around Kuroko, talking about how his team was faring. Again, much like earlier, he'd ask about Kagami, only to be disappointed by Kuroko's answer.

At one point, Aomine offered his company for the last time.

They were mid-game, and somehow Aomine collided into the man. He caught the smaller figure just in time, pulling him close by the waist. In the silence, they could hear the ball bounce away and crash into the fencing. Both panting from the play, Aomine and Kuroko were caught in a heated gaze.

Aomine leaned in without thinking, and Kuroko took his kiss easily. Aomine nearly knocked him over in the moment, and in response, Kuroko backed up into the fencing, letting out a clink as metal hit metal once the pair landed on it.

Soon, Aomine's hands were underneath Kuroko's shirt and his lips on his neck. Aomine grabbed the smaller man's form and easily lifted Kuroko higher, grabbing his legs and placing him so that his groin touched his, members slowly becoming more erect.

"Aomine-kun-" Kuroko breathed in a near whisper.

"Mmm?"

"Let's not," Kuroko said, finally finding strength in his voice as Aomine took a moment to look at him, disheveled, face pink.

"You mean… not here?" He asked.

"No- it's not that-"

"What is it then?"

"Kise-kun would be unhappy," Kuroko said.

Aomine laughed. "I guess that's the easier excuse, eh?" He walked away to pick up the basketball resting by the fence and threw it towards Kuroko. "Come on, one more."

Kuroko looked at the pair now. He was observant enough to know that Kise and Aomine couldn't come to terms with how they felt. It asked too much of the other, Kuroko realized. They were free spirits, untethered, and preferred to see the other flourishing.

Once they decided on teams, Kise and Aomine settled on competing. Kuroko pretended not to notice when Kise leaned into Aomine's ear and whispered something that appeared to make the other blush. Kise looked at Aomine with a mischievous grin, and Aomine frowned in response.

"Your ass is mine," Aomine said.

Kise responded by sticking out his tongue and laughing.

Kuroko realized that Aomine probably never mentioned the incident to Kise. Not that it was worth mentioning, and most knew that whatever affection Kuroko had for Aomine perished with his time in Teiko.

This morning was no different from previous. Their scheduled meet-ups were happening less often, now becoming a monthly affair as opposed to the initial weekly plan. Now that they were getting older and less practiced, they mostly talked while waiting their turns. This time, Himuro and Kuroko took a turn on the benches.

Himuro wiped his sweat dry and took a sip from his bottle. He glanced at Kuroko briefly and turned his focus back to the game.

"How's he doing?" Kuroko asked.

"Don't know." Himuro started, "Well, I assume. Last I heard of him was Christmas. Alex and I managed to grab one of his evenings for a family dinner."

Kuroko didn't say anything, watching Kise laugh at Murasakibara's attempt at a 3 pointer.

"There's speculation that he's engaged." Himuro said. "Alex said something about a girl. Again, it might be tabloid BS, and Kagami's never been forthcoming with this stuff so-"

"As long as he's happy." At this, Kuroko stood, suddenly feeling the urge to play.

"Kuroko-"

The shadow raised his hand for the ball, and the remaining players looked at him questioningly, as he had just recently switched with Midorima. Kise volunteered to sit out, something about a call he had to make to his agent.

Kuroko decided to ignore the surge of emotion filling his chest and focused on the game, expertly passing the ball where he thought best, Aomine catching them effortlessly to the dismay of the opposing team. They laughed as Aomine dunked the ball above Murasakibara, who was a bit slow to the attempt as he was distracted by Kise pilfering through his snacks bag.

"Hey! Don't let him take my snacks!" He called out to Himuro, who shrugged, causing the giant to leave the game promptly.

"What a distracted mess," Akashi remarked with an amused smile.

"Why don't we take a break? We've been at it for about 30 minutes." Momoi said, tapping at her smart watch.

The group collected in a circle at the benches, distributing snacks, coffees, teas and sports drinks.

"I'm surprised you guys can still keep up with me," Aomine said, grabbing a bite of the honey-soaked lemon Momoi handed to him.

"You do realize we've trained with you several times," Akashi replied, taking a sip of water.

"Aomine-chi still thinks he's better than everyone else," Kise remarked.

"I am," Aomine replied with ease.

"Kuroko would disagree," Akashi said, turning to the man. "You've played with us, who do you find you work with best?"

"That's an easy one," Midorima said, "Kagami, no?"

There was an awkward silence.

"You've all got your preferences," Kuroko began, ignoring Midorima's response. "Kise is probably easiest to work with."

At this, Kise beamed. "Oh Kuroko-chi!"

"Yeah, yeah, don't get your hopes up." Aomine stated, grabbing Kise by the head, preventing him from smothering Kuroko.

They began to argue, Midorima saying something about how Kise's 'ease' was spread across his entire lifestyle. Kise glared at the surgeon, mocking his sexual experience and how ease wasn't as bad as being prudish. Aomine chimed in something about loyalty, to which Akashi retorted that loyalty was a virtue Aomine didn't know much about. Murasakibara paid the group no mind as he continued to slowly partake in the spread in front of him. Momoi realized long ago that controlling the team was a fever dream, and contented herself with the ensuing entertainment. Himuro glanced at Kuroko, who he figured used the argument as a way to get the attention off of himself.

The noise was interrupted by Kuroko springing up into attention. Although the rest could miss Kuroko easily – despite years of knowing the man, it was definitely hard to ignore when Kuroko was focused. They slowly quieted and followed his gaze.

"I can hear you guys from a block away." Kagami said, smirking at the group.

There was silence.

"Kagami-chi!" Kise exclaimed, he sprang up, but was easily stopped by Aomine who misjudged his strength, causing Kise to land onto his lap. This didn't seem to matter to Aomine, who wrapped his arm around Kise's waist like a seat belt. "Aomine-chi!" He whined.

"Shut up," Aomine hissed, eyes on Kuroko.

"Uh…" Kagami said, now registering the awkward silence.

Himuro cleared his throat and greeted his adoptive brother warmly. "Where have you been?" He asked, clearing the distance. The others followed, surrounding the red head joyfully.

"I've been tidying things back in the states- sorry I haven't been in contact." Kagami explained, scratching the back of his head.

"Yo," Aomine interrupted, to which Kagami replied with a nod after glancing at Kise in his arms.

"Is Kagami going to play with us?" Murasakibara asked, glancing at Kuroko who was still, surprisingly, seated.

"Of course, why not?" Akashi smiled. He walked over to Kuroko, placed a hand on his shoulder and whispered something into his ear.

Kagami felt a prickly sensation run up his spine. Akashi watched curiously, as Kuroko walked up to Kagami. Whatever Akashi said, Kuroko seemed to be okay, now.

"Welcome back, Kagami-kun." Kuroko stuck a hand out, and Kagami shook it.

"Thanks," he replied.

The awkwardness lifted as the others began debating teams, Himuro and Kagami watched as Kuroko retreated to Akashi to exchange a few words.

"What's going on there?" Kagami asked, allowing the miracles to decide on teams on their own.

Himuro shrugged, "They're close." He watched Kagami's reaction. "Why?"

"Nothing," Kagami said, turning away, as if he couldn't watch.

"Akashi-kun, I did not appreciate that statement."

Akashi looked down at Kuroko with a smirk. "Which?"

"I was not intending on embarrassing anybody." Kuroko said, glancing at Kagami who was laughing as he caught up with Midorima.

"You know," Akashi said, "you're still so entertaining, playing with you has always been my favorite – you've got an instinct like nobody else. But Kagami is a curious situation. Do you really think he'd disappear for no reason?"

The pair watched from afar. Kagami had now turned his back towards them. Akashi pulled Kuroko further away, out of sightlines from the group.

"I don't know what you're implying, and I'm sure he'd explain if I asked."

Akashi crossed his arms, face of slight disappointment. "If." The red head closed the gap between them, expertly sliding his hand behind Kuroko's neck. He gently pulled Kuroko in, who obliged, lips close to his ear, "You haven't seen the depths of my emotion for you-" at this, he placed his free hand onto Kuroko's waist. If anyone could see, Akashi didn't care, "Aomine was brash, unable to notice anyone beyond himself… Kagami is clumsy, and incredibly unaware-"

Kuroko turned his head slightly towards Akashi, he had learned that Akashi could be beguiling when he wanted to be. "And you?"

Akashi smiled, "The better option," he locked eyes with Kuroko. He was leaning in to kiss him-

"Hey," Kagami said, towering over the couple. "Not sure you wanted to play, or?"

Akashi paused mid-lean. Right hand still on Kuroko's waist, he turned to look at Kagami.

"Of course." Akashi replied. The ex-captain turned to Kuroko, and swiftly kissed his neck. "I'll see you both on the court."

Kagami watched as Akashi casually walked away, one hand in his pocket. He overheard Midorima ask: "What did you do now?"

Kagami rolled his eyes, and turned to Kuroko. "You okay?"

Kuroko caught a breath, "Yeah, you know how he can be."

"I didn't know you guys were like that." Kagami said.

Kuroko looked up at Kagami with a shrug. "You don't know much." He walked away.

"Oi!" Kagami called out.

Kuroko was never one for passive aggression to this level. However, as the day wore on, Akashi became more blatant in his play. Volunteering to be on Kuroko's team, finding ways to counter any reunion of the light and shadow on court. Midorima noticed, and volunteered to be their third for the remainder of the afternoon. He wasn't sure what was happening, but Kuroko looked pissed and Akashi seemed to be enjoying Kuroko's state.

Kagami didn't appear to mind, enjoying the somewhat imbalanced team he had become part of as Kise and Aomine appeared to be having their own little competition. Much to no one's surprise, they won most of the games. Aomine and Kagami shared a high-five after the winning basket, and they regrouped towards their things. Kise hung onto Aomine's back, much to the man's dismay.

"How long has this been going on?" Kagami asked, looking at the pair.

Aomine looked a bit annoyed at the question, which Kise decided to answer, "A few years now."

"Years?" Kagami asked.

"Yeah," Kise said, finally letting go of Aomine. "We're by no means exclusive if that's what you're wondering." He smirked.

"That's not what I was wondering," Kagami said, suddenly regretting asking, "Midorima's married and Tatsuya's committed, all that's left are you two. And I guess whatever Akashi and Kuroko are doing." Kagami felt his chest tighten.

Kise and Aomine looked at each other. Aomine shook his head as if to tell Kise not to touch the situation, but Kise was never entirely sensitive.

"What's going on between Akashi-chi and Kuroko-chi?"

"I don't think much," Midorima chimed in. He stared in the direction of the aforementioned pair. They had lagged behind, as Akashi was talking to Kuroko about what sounded like game tips.

"I thought something was going on between you and Kuroko-chi, Kagami-chi."

"Oh my god Kise," Aomine said, covering his own face with his hand.

"What! Midorima-chi, don't you agree?"

"Well," Midorima began as he pushed up his glasses, "I don't think that's for us to decide."

"Oh, they're making out." Tatsuya pointed out.

Kuroko lagged behind with Akashi who insisted he had some advice regarding his passes. Kuroko, half offended and half curious, listened in – allowing the other four to go on ahead without them.

"Your spin has decreased considerably, I'm impressed." Akashi began.

"I've been experimenting with trajectory and speed – the kids cued me into it. They kept complaining about how the ball would sometimes hurt their fingers when catching." Kuroko began to go on about his teachings and findings.

Akashi listened intently, genuinely interested in what he had to say.

"Tetsuya, I'm in love with you." Akashi said, once the conversation reached a lull and the rest of the group was far enough away.

Kuroko didn't say much in response, realizing that it was less a question (Are you in love with me too?) and more of a statement.

"I didn't think you were capable of it." Kuroko said.

"That's mean. I thought I gave it enough time, that you'd get over Kagami, but I suppose not."

Kuroko maintained eye contact with Akashi, who let out a sigh.

"This is it then?" Akashi asked, almost sadly. His vulnerability so rarely seen. He looked at the only man who could read him (Midorima second, and he was married, much to Akashi's dismay), and took his hand. "That's it, then."

Kuroko allowed this, and he could guess what was next. He hoped the rest were busy amongst themselves– after all, most didn't notice his disappearance for a while.

Akashi pulled on Kuroko's hand, and kissed him one more time. He placed a hand in Kuroko's hair, and Kuroko allowed this, too. Kuroko placed his own free hand on Akashi's upper back, and as if in farewell.

"Ah jeez, look away," Kagami urged, smacking his friends' shoulders as cue.

Midorima's phone buzzed and he turned to the black Mercedes awaiting nearby. The window rolled down and Takao waved at the group, the group waved in return.

"That's my ride." Midorima said, picking up his bag. "Bit of advice, Kagami, I wouldn't worry about this." He gestured toward the pair who had now separated from their intense moment.

"What would I worry about?" Kagami asked, heart quickening.

Midorima looked at Kagami in irritation, "Akashi's been in love with Kuroko since his defeat. His timing is odd, in front of all of us, no less. Still, I don't think Akashi's ever been Kuroko's type."

"Type?"

"Kuroko has a type," Aomine agreed, as he took his bag from Kise's hands.

"If Midorima-chi is leaving, we should go too Aomine-chi," Kise said, gathering his things. Aomine shrugged, seeing as Momoi had left earlier for an impromptu meeting for work.

"Tatsuya," Murasikabara whined, "It's almost dinner time!"

Himuro looked up at Kagami who shrugged. "We'll catch up later," he said.

Akashi and Kuroko returned, exchanging polite conversation finishing with Kuroko letting out a chuckle.

"Everyone's left already?" Akashi asked, picking up his things. "I didn't get to thank Momoi for getting us together again." He took a moment to regard Kagami, who seemed tense.

"Thanks for making time, Akashi-kun."

Akashi looked at Kuroko with a gentle smile, "Excuse me if I don't respond to your texts for a while, Tetsuya. A man's got to tend to his heart." He began to walk away, and passed the taller red-head with a polite nod, "Kagami."

Kuroko picked up his things and headed in the opposite direction. Kagami followed closely behind.

Kagami looked down at Kuroko with curiosity, wondering how he was feeling about what just happened, wondering why in the world it felt like there was a massive brick wall between them.

"Kagami-kun, if it's alright with you, I'd rather head home alone."

Kagami looked at Kuroko's face lit by the streetlights. His face more chiseled, now that the baby fat had gone. He grew a little, too, though not much compared to Kagami's towering height.

"Alright," Kagami said.

"That's it?" Kuroko asked.

"What's it?" Kagami asked.

Kuroko's face turned to one of anger. "I can't believe you- you're an idiot, you're absolutely stupid."

Kagami glared in annoyance, "What the hell Kuroko-"

"Forget it," Kuroko said, suddenly fed up, exhausted, confused and hurt. "I'm going to go home and wash Akashi's cologne off of me. I'll see you around."

Kagami let him leave. Though, he wasn't sure that he actually allowed him to leave, more that he had no choice. Kagami had felt Kuroko's wrath back when they were teenagers, but now that they were older and so much time had passed this anger felt more nuanced. Kagami wondered what he did wrong, but couldn't go beyond the thought of the two kissing. He turned in defeat back to his apartment.

What could he have said? He wondered. It had been years since they spoke, and when they had that moment alone Kagami was frozen. Kuroko had grown more handsome, more certain than ever before, and Kagami – who was originally so excited to see him, was reduced to that eighteen-year-old who cried out a messy thank you. He climbed into bed in defeat.


Kagami woke this morning without a plan. He contented himself with lazing about in his apartment for a full 24 hours and contemplated returning to America. His original plan was to return, spend some time with Kuroko and quietly leave. The years they spent without communication was not his intent, and he returned as soon as he could in hopes of remedying the situation.

Kagami's phone dinged with a text. There, he found Midorima's paragraph text regarding the Akashi-Kuroko situation. Before Kagami could reply, his phone rang.

"What? I was going to text you back."

Kagami, you idiot. Midorima began. You know Kuroko rejected Akashi?

"I don't remember asking you for advice."

There was silence on the other side, save for what sounded like Takao's laughter in the background. I told you to leave them alone.

"Even if I wanted to do anything about it, I don't think Kuroko wants to be around me."

Why don't you try?

"What are you talking about?"

Aomine – rejected, Akashi – rejected.

Aomine? Kagami thought to himself. The thought got his blood boiling.

"So?"

Midorima sighed on the other line, and it was followed by a click.

Kagami sat in silence for a moment. He let out a huff and stood, slowly got dressed and shut the door behind him.

xxxx

Aomine rolled over away from Kise, to pick up his ringing phone on the nightstand.

"Hello?" He asked sleepily. "Outside?" Aomine hung up.

Kise woke, curious as to why Aomine was putting on his clothes.

"Kagami's outside, wants to talk." Aomine explained.

Kise stood with a yawn, deciding to follow.

Aomine pulled on his shoes and found Kagami waiting on the sidewalk.

"What are you bothering me about so early in the morning?"

"Kuroko," Kagami began, noting Kise's half naked presence at the door. "You and Kuroko?"

Aomine smirked. "Yeah."

Kagami swung, his fist landing on Aomine's cheek.

"What the fuck!" Aomine exclaimed, and then swung just as quick, landing a blow to Kagami's stomach.

Kise watched, entertained. He had some inkling that Aomine still loved Kuroko to an extent (hell, Kise's pretty sure he had some sort of crush on him too), but knew that it was well behind him.

"After what you did to him," Kagami took a breath, winded from the punch.

"Yeah? And? He fucking enjoyed it too-" Aomine was interrupted by yet another punch to the cheek.

Kise admitted that he deserved that one.

Aomine laughed, nose now bleeding. "Are you jealous? You fucking idiots- waiting for each other to make the first damn move. How god damn tiring? Isn't it, Kise?"

"Tiring." Kise agreed, nodding matter-of-factly.

"Why are you back, Kagami? American pussy not enough for you? Keep coming back for that Japanese ass?"

Kagami was now enraged, fully tackling Aomine to the ground. The pair scuffled on the concrete floor, as Kise watched, yawning still.

"If you guys don't quit it, they're going to call the cops on us." He said, bored.

Kagami placed himself atop Aomine, his shirt in one fist with the other in the air.

"He didn't want me, Kagami." Aomine said, "And I'm all the better for it. Are you gonna do anything about it, though?"

Kagami felt himself being pulled off the other man. Kise dropped him carelessly on the side of the road and helped Aomine up.

"Kagami-chi, if you've got any collection of balls, you'd probably take all this pent-up sexual frustration to Kuroko-chi."

Kagami stood, wiping the blood from his lip. He watched as Kise dusted Aomine's clothes and ushered him to return to the house.

"When you man up, I'll forgive this morning's BS." Aomine called out before Kise waved goodbye and shut the door behind them.


Kuroko woke this morning later than usual. Nigou scratched at the front door with a whine, always on time for walks and meals.

"Yes, give me a moment, Nigou." Kuroko called out. He pulled on a pair of sweats lying about and a matching sweater. He retrieved Nigou's leash and took a moment to pat his hair into place. Typically, Nigou would run to Kuroko once he heard the sound of the bell on his leash. But this time, he persisted at the door, whining and scratching at it.

Kuroko found it odd, though not uncommon. Usually, it took Kuroko opening the door to show him that no one was there before he could settle. Kuroko did open the door, but was surprised to see Kagami standing there, mid knock.

For once, Kuroko was the one who was taken by surprise.

Nigou jumped up in excitement, and Kagami received the dog's affection warmly.

"You're so big, and old," Kagami said gently, rubbing Nigou under the chin and around the ears, "I missed you too." He let Nigou lick his hands.

"Kagami-kun," Kuroko said, "What are you doing here?"

Kagami let Nigou leave the two of them alone, happily trotting to his food bowl, once Kagami closed the door behind him.

"I… uh…" Kagami turned red, suddenly remembering what he had come here to do. "I just…"

Kuroko regarded him with curiosity. "Is there something you have to tell me?"

Kagami looked at him, face impossibly redder now that they made eye contact.

"Uh… have you had breakfast? Let me make you breakfast." He hurriedly took off his light jacket and ran into the kitchen.

"Kagami-kun."

The red head focused on his tasks in the kitchen, fumbling with the utensils and even breaking an egg or two due to nervousness. "Sorry- I-"

At this, Kuroko placed the leash he was still holding onto the coffee table. He pulled up his sleeves and helped Kagami tidy. In silence, he helped him prepare their breakfasts. Kuroko figured it must have taken Kagami all his courage to return, and it occurred to him that that courage had him spent. They sat across from each other and began to eat.

Kagami flinched, and Kuroko realized that he didn't notice it earlier – a tear on Kagami's lip. He began to bleed slowly, and Kuroko reappeared with some first aid.

"How did this happen?" Kuroko asked gently, sitting close to Kagami, who began to heat up.

"Doesn't matter," Kagami said, watching Kuroko tenderly attend to him.

Kuroko looked at him thoughtfully, and returned to his plate.

Once they finished, Kuroko asked Kagami to accompany him to walk Nigou. Kagami happily obliged, hoping that the activity would continue distracting them both. For a Sunday morning, it was quiet in the neighborhood. Kuroko followed Nigou's lead, the old dog had preferences for routes, and this morning it seemed to just be a quick walk around the block.

Kagami watched as Kuroko gave Nigou a treat when they took a pause to look at the cherry blossom trees. He knew Kuroko was content to spend time in endless silence if he could, and Kagami tended to be the one to initiate conversation. At what point did that change, now that all this time passed between them? Will things ever be the same again?

"You're staring at me, Kagami-kun."

"Oh- sorry."

Kuroko laughed, "Since when did you become so apologetic? Not very American of you."

Kagami felt all the tension dissolve at his jab, he scratched the back of his head in embarrassment. Kuroko returned his attention to Nigou, who signaled that it was time to return home.

They arrived at Kuroko's apartment, and the blue haired man tossed the remote control to Kagami. Kuroko returned with a book to read. There were a few minutes of silence as Kagami pretended to watch TV. Kuroko sat beside him, leaning on the other arm rest, like they always did. Kagami watched him, remembering the way Akashi held his neck, wondering what Aomine touched and how long ago.

"You're staring again, Kagami-kun." Kuroko said, without looking up from his book.

Kagami cleared his throat in embarrassment. It was difficult to ignore the rush happening towards his nether regions, and he repositioned himself to hide it. His imagination was nearly, nearly uncontrollable.

"Oh," Kuroko said suddenly, leaving and reappearing with a glass of water and snacks. "Here."

"Ah, thanks." Kagami replied, he reached over to receive the drink with ease. The protein bar was a different story. Kuroko at times would drop things, and Kagami would tease him – wondering how in the world he ever caught a basketball, and this time was just the same.

"That was my mistake," Kuroko said, reaching to retrieve the bar, Kagami did the same and inadvertently grabbed Kuroko's hand, her remembered the last time he shook it – all of the goodbyes, and all of the hellos Kuroko so faithfully waited for. At this, Kuroko dropped the bar, but for some reason, Kagami didn't let go. "Kagami-kun?"

Kagami tugged Kuroko into his arms with ease, and he landed on top of him expertly.

"Shit-" Kagami muttered into Kuroko's hair.

"Uh-"

"Shut up! Don't move." Kagami said, tightening his hold around Kuroko's frame, careful not to crush him.

"I promise I won't, but I can't breathe, Kagami-kun." Kuroko said, voice muffled by Kagami's chest.

"Oh! Sorry-" At this, Kagami released his hold, instead covering his hot face with both hands.

Kuroko sat back, straddling Kagami's lap, he noticed the bulge in Kagami's pants and decided not to mention it. "Kagami-kun-"

"Just, give me a damn moment, will you?" Kagami said, finally revealing his flushed face. "Come here." He sat up and pulled Kuroko's chin towards him, their lips locking for the first time.

Kuroko leaned in, surprised, heart racing in his ears.

"What-"

"The last year I couldn't talk to you… I realized I-" Kagami began, not even making eye contact, "Don't make me say it, Kuroko."

"Say it," Kuroko said, climbing higher onto Kagami, applying more of his weight onto his half erect bulge.

Kagami let out a curse under his breath, and Kuroko responded by leaning in and kissing Kagami, this time more intensely. They separated, panting.

"It's you," Kagami said, "I can't get you out of my head, I-"

Kuroko interrupted him with another kiss, taking a moment to pause as he lifted Kagami's shirt off of him, revealing his chest.

"Damn it, are you even paying attention?"

"Of course I am," Kuroko said seriously, "You said you couldn't get me out of your head."

"Right, I can't and," Kagami was interrupted by another kiss, and he could barely contain his excitement, watching as Kuroko pulled off his shirt.

"And?" Kuroko asked, as he kissed Kagami's chest.

"Kuroko, damn it," Kagami said, he wrestled Kuroko down and underneath him. "Listen to me."

Kuroko looked up at Kagami in amusement. "Now I'm really listening."

Kagami flushed red again, and reeled back at the sight and statement. He sat back, "If you're not going to take me seriously-"

"I am," Kuroko said, climbing onto his lap again, arms around his neck and shoulders. Kagami looked up at Kuroko for a change, still blushing.

"Why aren't you pissed at me?"

"I was." Kuroko said, "But I realized that you're not the kind of person to not contact literally anyone without good reason."

"It was work," Kagami said.

Kuroko nodded, leaning in to kiss him again.

"I think I've loved you all this time." Kagami said, burying his face into Kuroko's chest.

Kuroko held him closely. "So have I."

Kuroko pulled his chin up, now, and gave him a passionate kiss. Kagami lifted him easily and carried him into his bedroom. He placed him underneath him and began to undress the smaller man.

"Shit," Kagami said, "This is my-"

Kuroko interrupted him with a kiss. Now fully naked, he took his turn at undoing Kagami's belt. Kuroko pulled the larger man's pants off with ease. He had to admit that he'd sometimes imagined what it was like to have Kagami, and he was pleased at how submissive he turned out to be. Kuroko gently grabbed Kagami's penis and Kagami shuddered with pleasure.

"Kuroko-" he moaned.

"You know, Kagami-kun," Kuroko began, leaning down to lick the head of Kagami's penis, "For the amount of game you talk on the court, it's refreshing to see what you're like in the bedroom."

"Shut up," Kagami breathed, as Kuroko slid a condom onto his own penis. "What are you doing?"

Kuroko smirked.

Something about that drove Kagami insane. He sat up and grabbed Kuroko, nearly slamming him into the bed underneath him.

"Kagami-kun-"

"You don't get to do that, not for our first time," Kagami said, "not after all that teasing you did while I was trying to confess my fucking feelings."

Kagami pulled the condom off of Kuroko, pulling one out of his own wallet.

Kuroko looked at him, entertained. Before Kuroko could quip again, Kagami's hands were simultaneously entering him and rubbing his penis. Kuroko let out a loud moan, and Kagami couldn't get enough. Once Kuroko appeared prepared (basically drooling, pink, unable to form a coherent sentence) Kagami entered Kuroko slowly. Being larger than the male underneath him, Kagami took his time. He ignored the threat of orgasm due to Kuroko's reactions alone.

Kagami focused on entering Kuroko, now fully inside him, and beginning to pump. He watched as Kuroko grabbed his own dick, rubbing in time with his thrusts. Kuroko, being quieter by nature was breathy, moaning briefly in between.

"I-" Kagami began, unable to formulate sentences, distracted by how good Kuroko looked, and felt wrapped around him. He was shocked at how quickly he was reaching orgasm, he attempted to slow, savoring the moment.

Before he could attempt again, Kuroko tightened and relaxed around him, letting out a sigh as his pelvis became covered in his own cum. Kagami finished immediately after, pulling Kuroko close, lips locked.

They parted for a moment to breathe, and began to kiss again as Kagami pulled out.

They separated, a single arm around the other, catching their breaths from the intensity of the session.

"So, was I better than Aomine?" Kagami asked.

Kuroko whipped a pillow at Kagami's face.

At this, Kagami pulled Kuroko into his arms, running his fingers through the other's hair.

"We should clean up," Kuroko said, enjoying Kagami's warmth.

"We will," Kagami said, "Not yet."


Taiga Kagami closes his career with a game winning basket!

I've never noticed, but has he always put that fist up in front of him when he runs back to position?

He's been caught wearing a gold ring during his interviews too.

I wonder who the lucky girl is.


A/N: That tearful dramatic goodbye after the Jabberwock... you can't tell me that as soon as Kagami had the chance he didn't climb onto a plane to see Kuroko again.