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, Hinata x Kozume x Kuroo, Hinata x Bokuto x Akaashi x Kuroo x Kozume
Plot: A storm, and an unexpected arrival.
Alpha/Beta/Omega Dynamics
Ch 32: Asseverate
Hinata woke with a start, gasping aloud at the sound of thunder crashing overhead and rolling in the distance, flashes of lightning illuminating the bedroom walls in slivers of sharp white. He panted softly, trying to catch his breath, his heart fluttering as he pressed a hand over Akemi, feeling the familiar press of a foot against his searching fingertips. He closed his eyes, shivering and exhaling slowly, tucking his ears back and focusing on evening his breathing before glancing towards the nightstand, reaching for his phone.
Nothing. No new texts, no unread messages. He pinched his brow, his chest twisting with worry. He opened his most recent conversations, scrolling until he found Atsumu's name.
He tapped the row of glowing digits, pressing the phone to his ear with a shaky sigh as he waited for Atsumu to answer. It rang for several moments before there was a click accompanied by the sound of heavy rain and traffic. Voices spoke back and forth briefly before Nishinoya greeted Hinata's call, Hinata perking his ears towards the cheery beta's voice.
"Hey Sho! Atsumu's driving, did you want me to ask him something?"
Hinata bit at his bottom lip, trying to form coherent sentences to relay what he was feeling inside. "Have you heard anything else? Did you make it to the city?"
"We'll be there in about an hour or so, we hit some unexpected traffic due to the storm. It's slow-going, but we're pushing through! The radio reports say things should clear up by dawn."
"Please be careful." Hinata murmured softly, curling in on himself as he closed his eyes, listening to the traffic noise in the background. "Ask Atsu to drive safe and call me when he can?"
"We will!" Nishinoya replied with a smile in his tone, Hinata's lips turning up slightly at the sound. "Try to get some sleep, Sho. We'll keep you updated. Promise."
Hinata lingered for a while longer before disconnecting the call, returning his phone to the night stand and reconnecting the charger before glancing towards the window. He perked his ears as lightning flashed through the blinds again, then carefully pushed himself up to venture into the apartment and determine the whereabouts of his bondmates.
Kozume glanced up at the sound of the bedroom door opening, standing from the couch and padding closer to his side, whispering gently, "Did the storm wake you, sweetheart?"
Hinata nodded slowly, looking from Kozume towards Shimizu, frowning a little as he took his husband's hand and stepped closer to her side. She was resting against Osamu's side half-asleep, the silver Alpha petting along her side gently, his nose pressed to her crown. Her face was red from crying, her fingers clenched tightly around her phone. She sniffed now and then, but otherwise remained silent.
"Artemis?" Hinata whispered, and Kozume tilted his ears towards Atsumu and Osamu's bedroom. If Hinata listened carefully, he could just make out the sound of Bokuto's deep crooning below the growling thunder overhead.
Hinata stood where he was for a long moment, then perked his ears towards Osamu, catching his eyes. "Do you want to lay down with her for a while? I'm not going to be able to fall back asleep anytime soon."
Osamu glanced towards Hinata's bedroom, then back towards his own, considering. "If Artemis wakes up…?"
"We'll take care of him." Hinata murmured gently, Kozume humming quietly with a little nod.
"Alright." Osamu agreed, blinking tiredly as he shifted from the couch, coaxing Shimizu up with him, guiding her to the bedroom and pushing the door partially closed behind them. Hinata could hear their voices for a few moments before they settled down to sleep, and he tightened his hold on Kozume's fingers and continued towards the twins' bedroom door, peeking gingerly inside.
Bokuto lifted his head at seeing both of his partners, smiling and reaching out to them, coaxing them closer in a hushed tone. He took Hinata's hand, the omega purring quietly as he settled down beside them. "Hey baby, are you feeling alright?"
"I'm okay." Hinata whispered, reaching out to pet between Artemis' small ears, watching the sleeping pup with an affectionate smile.
"He just settled down, he's been a real trooper tonight." Bokuto said softly, his eyes heavy as he stifled a yawn. "Even with all this thunder, he hasn't cried once."
Kozume watched his partners quietly, his gaze drifting over the pup resting between them thoughtfully. He turned towards the empty living room, listening to the heavy rainfall beating against the windows with a frown. He felt restless, antsy despite his partners being right beside him, safe and sound. He worried for Kageyama. He worried for Atsumu, for Shimizu and Osamu as well. He worried for Artemis. He worried for Hinata.
He wasn't certain if he'd ever experienced such feelings before. He'd never concerned himself with such things, but now they were a pack. Now, he felt compelled to do something. Standing around waiting for news felt unbearable.
He exhaled quietly through his nose, meeting Bokuto's eyes briefly before stepping away, padding into the kitchen and going through the familiar steps to brew a fresh pot of tea. While he waited for the kettle, he drew his phone from his pocket and texted Kuroo, wondering if the Alpha was still awake.
The reply came quicker than he expected, Kozume perking his ears towards the string of illuminated text.
/KT: Hey Kitten. Missing you too.
/KT: I can't sleep either. Been laying here for hours just staring at the ceiling.
/KT: Skye woke up when the storm first started, but now he's sleeping with Keiji. They're both out like a light.
There was a pause, then another message appeared to accompany the rest.
/KT: I feel like I should be searching with Atsumu. I can't shake this feeling that I should be doing something to help.
Kozume smiled, setting his phone aside briefly to tend to the kettle and steep the tea, retrieving his phone and replying to Kuroo's texts with a quiet sigh.
/KK: I'm not used to this feeling.
/KK: Our pack has so many within it now, it makes me feel anxious just thinking about the possibility of something bad happening to anyone close to us.
He closed his eyes, taking a deep breath before continuing on.
/KK: I know how much Kageyama means to Shouyou. If something happens to him, Shouyou will be heartbroken.
/KK: After losing Toru, I'm uncertain if Shouyou can recover from experiencing another loss. His devastation nearly consumed him. I can't imagine seeing him like that again.
Kozume didn't realize he was shaking until he set his phone aside and reached for his mug, closing his eyes briefly to center himself before pouring himself a steaming cup. He lifted the mug slowly, his eyes flitting across the screen as sipped his tea, Kuroo's voice audible in his mind, rich and warm with affection.
/KT: I understand why you're concerned, Kitten. I'm worried too.
/KT: We may have only been packmates for a short while now, but I care about Kageyama and Shimizu too. I don't want to imagine anything bad happening to either of them.
/KT: How is Shimizu doing? Is Artemis handling the storm okay?
Kozume flinched as a clap of thunder crashed through the living room, the sound of glass shattering following quickly after. He set aside his tea, immediately seeking out the origin of the sound, Hinata's concerned voice calling out worriedly from the bedroom nearby.
Kozume found a large branch sticking through one of the windows, the gnarled branch tangled in the ripped curtains, rain pouring in through the gap. He turned towards Hinata as the omega walked closer, saying softly, "Careful, Shouyou. There's glass all over the floor."
"I'll help." Osamu said tiredly as he emerged from the bedroom, walking towards the linen closet and fetching towels, Kozume working on shoving the branch back outside, Bokuto joining them a moment later.
Artemis was crying softly, startled awake by the sudden noise, Hinata reaching out to take him from Bokuto's arms, shushing him gently. He took a few steps back, watching as his partners worked together to remove the branch and begin patching the window, carrying the crying pup towards the bedroom to lay down with his mother.
Shimizu barely moved as Hinata settled down beside her, the beta blinking tiredly and reaching out for Artemis, Hinata rubbing his back as the pup cuddled up against his mother's chest. She nosed between his ears, shushing him and wrapping the blankets around him, slow tears dripping down her cheeks as she blinked towards the bedroom wall.
Hinata watched her with a sad little frown, reaching out to touch her gently, petting over her hand and forearm. "Kiyoko?" He whispered gently, laying down beside her and trying to meet her eyes. "Kiyoko, are you okay? Is there something I can do?"
"He's gone." She whispered, her voice impossibly soft. "He's gone. He promised me. He promised he wouldn't run again. He promised."
Somewhere in the back of his mind, Hinata remembered Kageyama telling him about the years he spent away from his sister, after losing Chai. Three years they spent apart. Three years of hooking up with strangers, drifting between city slums, drinking until he blacked out, using whatever he could get his hands on - drugged out of his mind to dull the pain.
She must be imagining that. She must be remembering what it was like to be alone in the years they spent apart.
She must be imagining her precious brother living in filth, used and discarded. Hinata could barely breathe at the thought.
"We'll find him." Hinata whispered, determination in his trembling words as he tightly squeezed her hand. "You aren't alone, and neither is he. Atsumu will find Tobio. Atsumu will bring him home."
"I pushed him away." She whispered, her breath caught on a sob. "I was selfish. I wasn't thinking. I shouldn't have bonded with Osamu-"
"Don't say that." Hinata whispered, shaking his head. "Don't say that, that's not true. Don't ever think that. Osamu loves you, Kiyoko. Osamu would do anything for you, and for Artemis. Tobio knows that. You didn't make the wrong decision. This didn't happen because of you, this happened because I-"
His words faltered, caught in his throat.
This happened because of me. It's because of me. I showed Tobio the recording. I arranged for them to meet at the hospital. This is my fault. This is all my fault-
"Shouyou? Shouyou, breathe!"
Hinata blinked quickly, turning away from the bright light above him, reaching up to shield his eyes. There were several sighs of relief and the light was pulled away, Hinata looking up at Kozume and Bokuto, his bondmates hovering over him, crouched at his side.
His head was ringing, his shoulder and back aching. What had just happened? He had been talking to Shimizu and then suddenly-
"Stay still, don't try to get up yet." Kozume murmured gently, assessing Hinata's current position, Bokuto petting over Hinata's chest in steady passes. "Keep breathing, Shouyou. Just like that. That's good, deep breaths."
"You were hyperventilating, Shouyou. You passed out." Bokuto offered worriedly, Hinata meeting his eyes, "Kiyoko tried to grab you, but you rolled backwards off the bed before she could."
"You must have hit your head as you fell." Osamu added shakily, leaning a little closer and brushing his fingers across Hinata's forehead gingerly. "There's blood on the corner of the nightstand. We're not sure how bad it is yet, Kenma's calling an ambulance now."
Hinata processed slowly, trying to understand. "I'm bleeding?"
"It doesn't look like much." Bokuto reassured gently, offering Hinata a smile. "We're just being extra careful for you and Akemi. The ambulance will be here soon."
"Okay." Hinata said softly, blinking slowly and looking towards the ceiling, frowning a little at an uncomfortable heat spreading throughout his body.
He shifted a little, sending a wave of nausea and pain flooding from the back of his skull down his neck, across his shoulders and along his spine. His breath hitched a little at the distinct sensation of wetness spreading between his legs.
He blushed and ducked back his ears, meeting Bokuto's eyes with a quiet whine. "Oh gosh I um…" He felt tears pinch at the corners of his eyes, a peal of embarrassed laughter escaping him. "I think I wet myself…"
Bokuto perked his ears in surprise, but his expression quickly smoothed, and he reached up to rub at the curve of Hinata's ear gently. "Hey, it's okay. Don't worry, we'll get you cleaned up. It's alright, Shouyou. Just try to relax for now."
Hinata sniffed and nodded, wincing at the sharp sting the movement caused, exhaling shakily and turning his attention to Kozume, listening as he spoke back and forth with the emergency operator. He was pacing back and forth, relaying their address and various other information, his eyes everywhere but Hinata, until finally he looked down to meet the omega's eyes.
"He's alert. He lost consciousness momentarily, less than a minute I'd assume."
Kozume nodded and listened before frowning a little, arching his brow.
"No, he hasn't thrown up or shown any signs of passing out again."
His eyes wandered down Hinata's frame, his eyes resting over his prominent baby-bump.
"Twenty-seven weeks, going on twenty-eight. He fell on his back, not on his stomach."
Bokuto turned his attention to their son, shifting forward to rest a hand over Hinata's navel, crooning while petting back and forth slowly. It caused a strange, twisting sensation to pass through him at the Alpha's touch, nausea welling up in the back of his throat. He felt hot. Too hot.
Kozume crouched down beside Bokuto, gazing down at Hinata's stomach before meeting his bondmate's eyes. "Shouyou, are you in any pain? Can you feel Akemi kicking?"
"I feel…" He swallowed thickly, his mouth starting to water. "I feel sick. I think I'm going to throw up…"
"Okay." Bokuto murmured gently, Osamu carefully helping Bokuto roll Hinata onto his side. "Try to breathe, baby. It's alright. Everything's alright-"
"Kenma." Osamu's breath hitched, Bokuto glancing up in alarm. Hinata couldn't see the other Alpha crouched at his waist, but he could feel that wetness spreading, the omega's face flushed with nausea and embarrassment as he let out a soft whine.
"I-I'm sorry." Hinata murmured, flattening his ears as Bokuto took his hand, squeezing gently. "I'm sorry, I can't stop it-"
Kozume stood and quickly ran to the front door, opening it to let in the storm, listening for the sound of sirens in the distance. Hinata couldn't make out exactly what he was saying to the emergency operator, but he could hear his fear.
"What's wrong? What is it?" Hinata whispered, Bokuto holding his hand tightly, his brow pinched with concern.
Shimizu was on her feet now too, grabbing jackets and shoes, helping Artemis bundle up, her voice trembling as she whispered, "Alright, sweetie. We're going to the hospital now. Can you be a big boy and help me grab some things? We're going just as soon as the ambulance is here."
Osamu watched her worriedly, Hinata trying to catch his eyes, still not able to fully see. "Osu?" Hinata called out worriedly, the silver Alpha ducking back his ears, leaning closer so Hinata could catch his eyes. "What is it? Tell me what's wrong."
"You're bleeding, Shouyou." Osamu whispered hesitantly, careful to keep his hands out of sight.
Bokuto perked his ears towards the sound of doors opening and closing, voices in the driveway, Kozume shouting over the storm.
"I'm bleeding…?" Hinata repeated back slowly, not understanding for a moment, then he reached down and pressed his fingers between his legs, drawing them back to find they were covered in blood.
"Just breathe-" Bokuto urged as calmly as he could, watching the paramedics as they entered the bedroom side by side. "It's okay, we're right here. We're right here, Sho."
"Is Akemi okay?" Hinata asked, tears blurring his sight. "Koutarou? Is Akemi okay? I can't feel anything-"
One of the paramedics slipped an oxygen mask over his nose and mouth, coaxing him to relax and breathe, the other beta checking his pulse and quickly assessing his vitals. The paramedics took turns speaking back and forth with Osamu and Bokuto, one inspecting the blood spreading down Hinata's legs while the other called over their radio for assistance upon arrival at the hospital.
Kozume was on the phone again, trying to reach Hinata's doctor. It was the middle of the night, in the heart of a storm, but still he tried to reach her again and again. Thunder rumbled threateningly all around them, lightning flashing for several pulses before the electricity flickered out. The lights from the ambulance illuminated the darkness, casting a vibrant red glow across the pale walls.
Hinata barely remembered being lifted onto a stretcher and carried to the ambulance. Bokuto was at his side, crouched low in the ambulance, holding his hand and watching over him with concern. Kozume followed behind with Osamu, Shimizu, and Artemis. Luckily the streets were mostly devoid of traffic.
As they reached the hospital Hinata started cramping unbearably, pain and nausea flooding through his body, which in turn caused him to start throwing up repeatedly. Bokuto rubbed his back while walking alongside the gurney, following the paramedics as they navigated the emergency room with practiced ease, the emergency doctor waiting for them in the hall.
Hinata glanced towards the doctor briefly before returning to his small tub, coughing and retching while tears streaked down his face, trying to breathe through the worst of it. Kozume was trailing behind them, speaking back and forth with Hinata's doctor, passing the phone to the emergency doctor so they could speak while Hinata was moved into a bed.
Once he had settled down Kozume took one of his hands, watching him worriedly and petting against his nape and shoulders soothingly. "We've got you, sweetheart. We're here."
"Do you want to be propped up?" Bokuto asked worriedly, helping nurses rearrange pillows, the two betas ushering him to sit in a nearby chair.
"I can't breathe!" Hinata coughed, the nurses quickly threading and IV and preparing a series of injections, Hinata flinching away from the sight of an approaching needle, nearly dropping his bucket. "I don't want-" He coughed again, shaking his head, "Akemi!"
"It's safe, Shouyou." Kozume reassured gently, glancing towards the nurses with a pointed look, "Whatever they give you is safe for our baby. You don't need to worry about that."
The nurses smiled and nodded, the first reaching out and petting over Hinata's hand gently while the second fed a syringe into his IV. "It's perfectly safe for you and your little one. It'll help stop your vomiting, and allow your body to relax while we work on stabilizing both you and baby."
"How far along is he?" The other nurse asked, "Third trimester, twenty-eight weeks?"
"Yes." Kozume replied, nodding and pressing his lips into a fine line, petting back and forth along Hinata's forearm soothingly. He watched as they worked, tilting an ear towards the doctor standing in the doorway while he continued his exchange with Hinata's doctor.
After what seemed like a small eternity, Hinata's retching lessened to rough coughing and hiccups, and the doctor ended his conversation, stepping closer while offering Kozume his phone.
"Alright. I have a thorough understanding of both our patients' histories. Now let's take a look and see what we're dealing with here."
The nurses were already preparing an ultrasound, one tilting the monitor towards the doctor while the other stepped aside and began tending to Hinata's head laceration. Hinata blinked slowly as she smiled down at him and gently tilted his head to the side, whispering soft praises and reassurances while pressing an antiseptic pad over the cut.
Kozume's eyes were on the monitor, perking his ears up and waiting for the doctor to speak. Bokuto watched nervously from his seat, his leg bouncing as he leaned forward and pressed his hands over his frown.
"There's a buildup of amniotic fluid here that's causing pressure along the stomach and spine. It would explain the nausea and pain." The doctor tapped the monitor briefly before drawing back his hand again. "What's most concerning is his bleeding. We want to be sure it is not being caused by a placental abruption."
"What about premature labor?" Kozume asked quietly, squeezing Hinata's arm gently. "At twenty-eight weeks the odds of safe delivery are…"
"The probability of a healthy baby typically falls between eighty to ninety percent upon entering the third trimester. However, it is admittedly earlier than we would like to see." The doctor nodded and pushed the monitor slightly aside, looking down at Hinata and reaching out to touch him lightly, smoothing his fingertips along the omega's rounded tummy. "If we are able to stall labor until closer to our expected due date, that would be most ideal."
"It's too soon." Hinata said softly, sniffing and blinking back tears, the nurses calming him with gentle words and touches. "Please, it's not time yet. He's not ready yet. He needs at least a little longer…"
"Alright." The doctor agreed with a little nod, "We will do what we can to stop your contractions and alleviate some of the pressure you're experiencing. You'll need to be monitored closely, likely for several days." He looked to Bokuto then, before tilting his ears towards the couch nearby. "We'll make arrangements for you to stay the night here in emergency. In the morning if things appear promising we will move you upstairs to recovery."
"Thank you." Bokuto exhaled shakily, giving the doctor a little nod.
"Yes, thank you." Kozume murmured, looking down at Hinata with a little smile. The doctor and nurses discussed Hinata's symptoms and treatment for a while before the doctor departed, leaving the nurses to tend to Hinata while his bondmates stayed close by his side.
Osamu and Shimizu stayed in the waiting room until Hinata was cleared to be moved to the recovery wing, only leaving once they were certain everything was alright. Akaashi and Kuroo came to visit as soon as they were awake, Akaashi fussing over Hinata worriedly while Skye tugged at his shirt, babbling loudly. He giggled and patted at his dame's shoulder excitedly, watching his father who was standing nearby.
Kuroo, Bokuto, and Kozume stood near the large window peering out across the city, the pale curtains pulled back just enough to allow sunlight into the quiet room. "They were able to halt his labor?" Kuroo asked, Kozume nodding and sighing tiredly, Bokuto resting his cheek against Kuroo's shoulder, finding comfort in his warmth.
"The doctor said they may need to deliver the baby early, if his bleeding doesn't stop." Kozume murmured softly, one of his ears twitching. "It's lessened now, thankfully. The nurses have been checking in every hour, monitoring both Shouyou and Akemi."
"I'm glad everything is okay." Kuroo crooned softly, Bokuto nuzzling against his jaw as Kuroo wrapped an arm around his waist, Kozume nodding quietly.
"We haven't heard anything from Atsumu yet." Kozume said softly, watching Akaashi and Hinata with a worried gaze. "The doctor said he needs to rest, but he's anxious and stressed - not knowing if Kageyama is alright."
"I'll check in with them." Kuroo said quietly, reaching out to tug Kozume closer, the beta hiding his face against Kuroo's chest. "You focus on Hinata, I'll focus on getting updates. We do this together, as packmates. We'll get through this. We've gotten through worse things together."
"Together." Kozume repeated softly, closing his eyes and exhaling a shaky breath. "Thank you for being here."
Bokuto hummed his agreement, his lips turning up slightly, Kuroo squeezing his waist gently. "It's nice having you here with us. It makes things feel less scary."
"We're happy to be here with you." Kuroo purred, kissing Bokuto's temple and cheek before dipping down to kiss between Kozume's ears, the beta sighing contentedly.
Akaashi carefully moved Skye to sit beside Hinata, the pup laughing brightly and reaching out to cling to Hinata's gown, Hinata smiling and tickling along his sides, giggling merrily. Akaashi watched them carefully, ready to reach out and take Skye at any moment should Hinata start feeling uncomfortable, but Hinata didn't seem the least bit concerned. He continued playing with Skye and talking with him excitedly, the pup trying eagerly to mimic his speech, now almost able to form full words.
"A-ke-mi?" Hinata enunciated slowly with a bright smile, Skye watching him closely. "Can you say A-ke-mi?"
"Keh!" Skye repeated back happily, tugging and patting at whatever was within reach. "Ah keh!"
"Such a good boy! You're such a good talker, aren't you?" Hinata praised, laughing cheerily and petting along his small ears and dark curls, teasing his chubby cheeks with a soft croon. "You and Rue are going to be such good playmates!" He turned his eyes to Akaashi, asking excitedly, "Oh! Your appointment is later today, isn't it? Will you bring new ultrasound pictures?"
"Of course!" Akaashi smiled, resting a hand over his small bump, his sapphire eyes glittering in the sunlight. "I'm so excited to see if we're having another little boy or a girl! Kuroo is convinced we're having a girl this time, he's already picking out names for her."
"Picking out names is the best." Hinata sighed, smiling and patting Skye's back as the pup nestled against his chest, popping his thumb into his mouth. "It took me ages to find a name I liked. I hope Akemi likes his name too."
There was movement at the door, then a soft knock before a pair of nurses walked in. They went through their duties, checking Hinata and Akemi's vitals, asking questions and recording his answers, checking on the laceration along the back of his skull. He hadn't needed stitches, but the cut was deep enough there was a risk of infection, and so they changed his gauze and applied fresh antiseptic every few hours or so.
"Alright, dove. You're looking well enough for us to stop bothering you quite so often." The first nurse said, offering Hinata a sweet smile. "We'll check in every few hours, you have our call button if you need us in the meantime. Don't hesitate to reach out for anything you need, okay?"
"Thank you." Hinata replied with a little smile, turning his ears towards Akaashi as the dark omega spoke up.
"Is it alright if he eats something now? What about a shower?"
"If you aren't experiencing any nausea, you can try to eat." The second nurse agreed with a nod. "As far as a shower, we wouldn't recommend standing for an extended period of time, but we can ask the doctor about arranging a bath if you'd like?"
Hinata hummed appreciatively at the thought, smiling and giving a little nod. "Soaking in a warm bath sounds like heaven right now."
"Alright, well see what we can do." The first nurse smiled, gesturing towards the phone on the wall nearby. "You can call the café for meal delivery. There's a menu in the top drawer of the nightstand."
"Thank you!" Akaashi called after them, turning and fiddling with the drawer for a moment before retrieving the menu from inside, offering it to Hinata. "What sounds good to eat? Something light to snack on like fruit? They have jello, and pudding…"
Hinata perked his ears up a bit, glancing over at the menu as Akaashi pointed out a few options. "Fruit and jello both sound good. Do they have strawberries?"
A ringtone chimed, and Kuroo reached for his pocket, checking the incoming call before answering, "Hello? Yes, that's right. Yes it is."
Akaashi turned his attention to Kuroo, listening to his half of the conversation as the Alpha turned away from his partners and paced before the window slowly.
"Yes, we are looking to sell. The listed price is firm."
Hinata looked between Akaashi and Kuroo, petting Akemi's back while asking quietly, "Who is Tetsu talking to?"
"It sounds like a potential buyer." Akaashi replied just as quietly, a small smile turning up his lips. "Now that some time has passed, Hajime, Daichi, and Koushi have decided to sell Toru's studio space."
Hinata's eyes widened, his breath catching in his throat.
"It's obviously still difficult for them, despite the time that's now passed. With Daichi and Koushi trying to have a baby there were concerns about causing unnecessary stress, so Hajime took responsibility for finalizing the sale. He reached out to us earlier this week asking for help with handling potential buyers."
Hinata tucked his ears back a bit, casting his gaze to the side. It was hard to think about Oikawa's studio belonging to someone else. There were so many memories there, so many precious memories.
"Are they selling the space because…" Hinata met Akaashi's eyes, "Because of what happened there?"
Akaashi hummed thoughtfully, tilting one ear towards Kuroo while meeting Hinata's eyes. "I think they felt that someone else could use the space to do something good. There are other artists, other painters and photographers who would love to have such an exclusive space for themselves. It seemed a shame to leave it as a mere storage space." Akaashi reached out to pet between Skye's ears, adding softly, "Paying for such a space is also beginning to put a strain on their household financially, without having a constant influx from Toru's work."
"Alright, thank you. Good day." Kuroo sighed quietly as he ended the call, turning to meet Akaashi's eyes with a light shrug. "Sounds like they're still considering. They said they'd reach out again by week's end to see if the space was still available."
"Perhaps Hajime is having better luck on his end." Akaashi mused, Hinata biting at his lip for a moment before glancing towards Kozume, the beta already watching him quietly.
He left Bokuto's side to draw closer to the bed, reaching out to trail his fingers over Hinata's leg lightly. "Shouyou? Are you interested in Toru's studio space?"
Hinata blushed lightly, searching Kozume's eyes for a moment before shying away. "It's just…it's Toru's. I can't imagine how…how difficult it must be for Hajime and the others to have to make such a decision, giving up his space to a stranger…"
"The neighborhood where the studio is located has substantial property taxes. They continue to raise them every year." Kuroo said with a sigh, carding his fingers through his dark hair. "We offered to help pay for expenses, but even with our combined incomes working at the clinic it's still a stretch."
"Toru's work brought in a lot of money." Akaashi agreed with a nod, exhaling a quiet sigh. "They've sold some pieces these past few months, but there are many that they cannot bear to part with. It's understandable, there will never be any more, only those that Toru left behind."
Hinata's brow was pinched, his expression distant, and Kozume took hold of his hand, squeezing his fingers gently.
"Shouyou, would you like me to speak with Hajime about purchasing the studio?"
Hinata lifted his eyes, meeting Kozume's gaze. He squeezed back his fingers, opening his mouth to speak, but only a soft, sad sound came out. "Oh." He shook his head, ducking his ears, the sting of fresh tears gathering in his eyes. "I don't want to ask you for money, Kenma. I…I can't ask you for that…"
"Shouyou, you have your own bank account with your own funds." Kozume murmured gently, taking a seat at Hinata's side and retrieving his phone. He took a moment to find the appropriate app and log into his account before offering the phone to Hinata, guiding him through the screens. "This is my personal account here. This account is yours, this account is Akemi's, and this account is Koutarou's."
Hinata's breath stuttered, his eyes widening at the balances displayed by each account. He met Kozume's eyes, then glanced down at the phone again, "When…" He wet his lips, his words hesitant. "When did you do this?"
"I made arrangements with my mother during her last visit." Kozume replied, offering Hinata an affectionate smile. "We discussed that it might make things easier for both you and Koutarou to understand and manage your wealth were you able to visualize your accounts."
"This is…mine?" Hinata asked, his tone still worried. "Are you sure I'm allowed to…to spend any of this? I've never…I've never dreamed-"
"I know." Kozume said gently, leaning closer to press a kiss to Hinata's cheek. "You've never asked how much my family is worth, and until now it wasn't pertinent for you to know such details, but now…" He reached up to comb Hinata's bright hair away from his flushed cheek, watching his awed expression with a smile. "Now we are married, we are partners. Now you need to know. These funds are yours, Shouyou. You can do with them whatever you wish."
"This money-" Hinata began, "This should be for our living expenses, a-and emergency medical funds, and college tuition for Akemi-"
"These accounts are separate from our joint finances." Kozume reassured gently, searching Hinata's eyes. "These accounts are specifically for you and Koutarou to access and draw from, at your own discretion. When Akemi is old enough, he will have access to his account as well."
Hinata blinked slowly, trying to understand. "So this money is…"
"This is play money." Kozume said with soft laughter and a smile. "You can spend this, Shouyou. I promise. It's meant for you."
Hinata clung to the phone, then looked to Akaashi and Kuroo, asking hesitantly, "H-How much is Toru's studio?"
Kuroo and Akaashi exchanged smiles, Kuroo chuckling while Akaashi sighed happily. "I'll let Hajime know we've found a buyer. We can discuss the details with you when you're fully recovered, okay?"
"Okay." Hinata said softly, his heart fluttering with excitement, his cheeks rosy and warm.
Bokuto and Kozume met each other's eyes, and the Alpha smiled and nodded, the beta's expression soft and contented. They were both happy to see Hinata was distracted by other things, instead of focusing on Kageyama.
-x-x-x-
Haiba pulled his headphones aside, listening for a moment before he heard that sound again. Someone was knocking on the front door. The lanky beta sighed, pausing his stream to go investigate, stretching his arms over his head while walking towards the front door, unlocking it and peering outside.
There was a boy there, a boy he didn't recognize. He had dark hair and dark eyes, his facial features sharp yet delicate, typical of a vulpine. Haiba tilted an ear to the side, offering a friendly smile in greeting before asking gingerly, "Is there something I can help you with?"
The boy watched him with a piercing gaze, his expression indiscernible. One of his ears twitched irritably, and his hand drew tightly closed into a fist.
"I need to speak with Morisuke."
Haiba's eyes widened in surprise. It wasn't often that someone would call on Yaku using his given name. "Oh! Umm, Mori isn't here right now. He ran to the store, so he should be back soon." Haiba considered for a moment, then opened the door a bit wider, ducking his ears back a bit with a sheepish smile. "Would you like to come in?"
The boy stared up at Haiba, then ducked his ears back slightly and stepped inside, lowering his gaze as he passed Haiba's side, Haiba closing the door behind him. The boy slipped out of his shoes quietly, leaving them neatly by the door, then he cast his gaze across the entryway towards the kitchen and living room, perking his ears slightly.
Haiba wasn't overly familiar with hosting an unexpected guest, but he tried to think of what Kozume or Yaku would do when someone arrived. He stepped towards the kitchen, asking, "Would you…would you like something to drink?" He glanced back at the boy, offering a friendly, nervous little smile. "We have juice, and sparkling water. I umm…" He looked to the kettle on the stovetop, considering. "I could try to make some tea?"
The boy hadn't moved from his spot, but as Haiba hovered beside the kitchen countertops, waiting for him to speak, he stepped closer and tilted his head to the side, holding Haiba's eyes. "You don't know how to make tea?"
Haiba arched his brow, laughing softly, his tone apologetic as he explained, "It's hard for me to focus on things like that. I burned myself once, so Mori or Kenma usually make the tea."
The boy glanced towards the stovetop, then the cabinets nearby. "Where do you keep your tea?"
"Here!" Haiba replied excitedly, opening the cabinet adjacent to the stove, pointing to the large array. "We have all sorts of tea! There's lemon tea, and raspberry tea. We have jasmine tea and chai tea-"
"I can read." The boy said softly, and it wasn't necessarily condescending, but certainly abrupt. He reached for one of the boxes, then moved to retrieve a cup from the shelf above. He didn't ask for Haiba's help, standing on his toes for a moment to reach the cup he wanted before gesturing lightly towards the stove. "I can make the tea. You can stand away from the stove."
"Oh." Haiba said softly, watching as the boy went through the steps of turning on the stovetop, filling the kettle, then setting it back on the burner, each movement careful and precise. He stood back as he had been told, clasping his hands together lightly, tracing his fingers over the bends of his knuckles and the creases of his palms, wondering if he should offer to help again, wondering if he had done something wrong.
It wasn't long before the kettle whistled, and the boy turned off heat, giving the water time to settle before pouring his cup, watching the tea steep silently. His ear twitched as he waited, then he looked to Haiba and paused, considering for a moment before moving to retrieve another cup from the shelf.
"What kind of tea do you like?"
Haiba smiled again, stepping a little closer and pointing, "The orange blossom is really good."
The boy hummed a soft affirmation, then retrieved the appropriate box, fixing Haiba a cup of tea as well. Haiba waited patiently, his eyes drifting over the two cups before focusing on the box of tea the boy had picked first, his smile widening as he recognized the flavor.
"Oh that's Earl Grey! That's Mori's absolute favorite!"
"I know." The boy said softly, and Haiba perked his ears curiously, wringing his hands together and falling silent again.
He glanced aside, thinking of the various acquaintances Yaku had spoken of before, but none matched the description of the boy standing before him. He frowned a little, trying to understand what he might be doing here, what he wanted to talk to Yaku about, and then suddenly Haiba realized he had never asked the other beta for his name.
He perked his ears up, focusing on the stranger again and opening his mouth to speak - but the sound of keys turning in the deadbolt startled him, and he turned his attention to Yaku, who was humming to himself softly as entered.
He was carrying a few bags of groceries, and Haiba could see his earbuds were tucked snuggly in his ears. He hadn't glanced up yet, and so Haiba took a step closer to greet him, but the other boy moved first. He stepped silently towards Yaku and reached out without a word, taking the bags from his hands and lowering his gaze, ducking his ears back as he bowed his head.
Yaku inhaled sharply, immediately tensing once he realized who had approached. He glanced up and took an earbud from his ear, meeting Haiba's eyes and asking quickly, "What are you-? What is he-?" He grit his small fangs, asking in a rush, "When did he get here? Why didn't you call me?"
Haiba ducked back his ears worriedly, saying quietly, "H-He knew you. He wanted to speak with you, I was…" He glanced towards the tea, then back to Yaku nervously, "I was trying to be nice…"
Yaku's expression was strained, and he let out a heavy exhale before turning his attention to the boy beside him, still standing silently with the grocery bags in hand. Yaku frowned and arched his brow, tilting an ear to the side before asking softly, "Why are you here, Yuuki?"
"To serve you." The dark beta replied softly, not lifting his head.
Yaku was quiet for a long moment, then he looked to Haiba with an apologetic smile. "I'm sorry for sounding upset, sweetheart. Aren't you in the middle of streaming? Do you need to get back to that?"
Haiba inhaled softly, realizing just how long his stream had been paused. "Oh y-yeah! I'm uh-" He looked toward the steeping teacups, then met Yaku's eyes again, "There's tea-?"
"I'll bring you some in a moment. I promise." Yaku said softly, nodding towards the bedroom lightly. "Go back to your gaming. I'll be right there."
"Okay." Haiba said softly, glancing between Yaku and the boy before turning away, tugging his headphones into place again.
Once Haiba had closed his door, and Yaku was certain they wouldn't be overheard, he turned his full attention to the boy beside him.
"Put them away." He said softly, and the boy instantly moved to comply. He returned to the kitchen, setting the bags carefully atop the counter before turning towards the refrigerator. He went about opening the fridge and kitchen cabinets one at a time, assessing their contents before beginning to methodically put everything away in its intended place.
Yaku stepped closer slowly, watching him work, leaning back against the kitchen island and crossing his arms over his chest, his eyes wandering across the boy's frame.
"You've put on weight since we last spoke." Yaku commented quietly, watching as those dark ears turned towards his voice. "You look healthier now. I'm glad to see you're doing better after your inpatient stay."
The boy didn't respond, continuing to put away the contents of each bag, careful to close the cabinets quietly. Yaku was silent for a few moments before his eyes fell on the tea, and he stepped closer to the stovetop quietly.
"You spoke with my fiancé?" Yaku asked, and the boy's fluid movements paused for the briefest of moments before he continued his work.
"I made him tea." He murmured quietly, his ear twitching as he spoke.
"Were you kind?" Yaku asked, reaching out to take the boy's closest wrist, drawing his movements to a halt.
The dark beta shivered at his touch, then set down the box of crackers in hand and turned to face Yaku fully, his eyes still downcast.
"Look at me." Yaku said softly, and the boy lifted his gaze to meet his eyes. "Were you kind when you spoke to my fiancé?"
"Yes, Master." He said softly, his expression neutral despite the sheen of tears in his eyes. "We only spoke a few words."
"I am no longer your Master." Yaku reminded impatiently, his mouth pressed into a firm line. "You know that, Yuuki. You broke the terms of our contract repeatedly. You put your life in serious danger multiple times. You refused to listen to me, you blatantly defied my guidance. You lied to me, over and over again-"
"Things are different now. I've changed." Shibayama said softly, searching Yaku's eyes. "I did what you asked of me. I entered into inpatient care voluntarily. I stayed the entire length of time recommended by my therapist, and returned every time she directed me to. I spoke with countless dieticians, nutritionists, specialists-"
"Can you admit aloud now the reality of your situation?" Yaku asked, Shibayama arching his brow with a small nod. "Tell me."
"I have an eating disorder, due to internalized trauma throughout my childhood. It is most commonly referred to as anorexia nervosa. I essentially starve myself in an attempt to assume control over my life."
He took a soft breath, his eyes shifting to watch Yaku's hand against his arm.
"I have obsessive compulsive disorder, especially regarding order and cleanliness."
Yaku shifted his grip, gliding his fingers along Shibayama's arm.
"I also experience severe anxiety and depression, and recently began seeing a therapist specializing in hypersexuality and PTSD."
"Very good." Yaku praised softly, Shibayama inhaling quietly and shivering beneath his touch. Yaku rested his hand against Shibayama's shoulder, taking a step closer and leaning in to whisper against his ear, "You said before that you came here because you wish to serve me?"
"Yes." Shibayama whispered softly, daring to press a little closer. "Please, allow me to-"
"What of my fiancé, Yuuki?" Yaku said softly, "I am bonding with someone I care about deeply. I cherish him, and want to spend the rest of my life with him." He drew back just enough to meet Shibayama's dark eyes. "Do you understand? Things cannot be as they once were. The life we shared together happened years before I met Lev."
"I understand." Shibayama murmured, lowering his eyes. "I will do whatever it is you ask of me. Anything you want from me, I will gladly give. Anything."
"I will not enter into a contract with you until I have thoroughly discussed such circumstances with my fiancé." Yaku said softly, Shibayama subtly nodding his head. "If your presence causes him distress, I will discontinue our current discourse immediately. I cannot give you what you ask without Lev's approval, regardless of how much I may want to."
Shibayama glanced up to meet Yaku's eyes, a faint blush dusting his cheeks. "You want to…?"
Yaku's expression was affectionate and soft, and he reached up to comb his fingers through Shibayama's dark hair, pausing to rub at the curve of an ear. "I adore you, Yuuki. You must know that. I loved you with every part of my being, with everything inside of me. Every time you negated our contract, it broke my heart."
Shibayama swallowed thickly, glancing down and bowing his head slightly, ducking back his ears. "I'm sorry."
Yaku was quiet, then he shifted his hand to lift Shibayama's face, pressing a soft kiss against his cheek.
"Give me some time to speak with Lev about why you're here, and what you're seeking. In the meantime," He drew back slightly, looking towards the remaining groceries and tea, "I want you to finish putting these away, and make yourself some tea as well. You can have whatever snacks you'd like to accompany your drink, but you must have something." He met Shibayama's eyes again, holding his gaze quietly.
Shibayama nodded his understanding, perking his ears a bit, "Yes Mas-" He paused, then corrected himself softly. "Yes, Morisuke."
"Good boy." Yaku whispered gently, watching Shibayama for a long moment before stepping away. He took the cup of orange blossom tea and made his way to the bedroom door, opening it and stepping inside quietly.
Haiba looked towards him with a bright smile, laughing and responding to something his chat had said, Yaku stepping closer to set the tea at the edge of Haiba's desk, careful to ensure it wasn't in danger of spilling upon any electronics.
"Yeah! Yeah absolutely! Oh gosh, yeah I totally think so too!" He grinned and returned his focus to the game before him, leaning a little closer to the monitors and clicking through various menu options while continuing on, "That item, it's really wild! It makes elemental casting super-"
He waved his hand for a moment, trying to think of the word. Chat popped up with several helpful suggestions, Haiba frowning a little until he spotted the right one.
"That's it! Yeah! Formidable! It enhances all stats to the hundredth percentile! Just wait, you'll see on this next boss, it's crazy cool! It's got the neatest graphics when activated too! Check out the buffs!"
Yaku smiled and watched over Haiba for a lingering moment, waiting until the younger beta glanced over at him again before he pointed towards his lips, mouthing silently, I love you.
"I love you too, Mori!" Haiba responded in an excited whisper, his cheeks flushing a bit as he held his fiancé's eyes. "Is your friend staying over for dinner?"
"Is that okay?" Yaku asked, leaning a little closer to speak with Haiba, careful to stay out of his streaming space.
"Yeah! Of course!" Haiba replied with a peal of bubbly laughter and a happy grin. "Do you want me to help cook dinner? I can end the stream after this boss?"
"Take your time." Yaku said gently, glancing towards Haiba's chat and watching as the comments continued to pour in. "I'll let you know when dinner is ready."
"Kay!" Haiba replied in a sing-songy tone, leaning out of frame to ask for a kiss, Yaku smiling gently as he leaned forward and pressed his lips to Haiba's.
Shibayama was kneeling at the coffee table before the couch when Yaku reemerged, the dark beta perking his ears up as he took another bite of a cookie, Yaku noting that his cup had been relocated to the coffee table as well. He approached Shibayama with a soft smile, settling down beside him on the carpet, Shibayama glancing towards him shyly before glancing away, continuing to nibble on his cookie.
"Those are good, aren't they?" Yaku asked quietly, and Shibayama made a soft sound of agreement.
"I like the bits of berry inside." Shibayama replied, his voice just as soft. As if afraid of ruining the moment.
"While we are still alone," Yaku began, Shibayama once again meeting his eyes, "I want to have a full understanding of what it is you want from me." He reached out, taking his cup in hand, lifting it to sip at the warm brew. "Is it strictly submissive servitude you desire, or are you interested in more?"
Shibayama hesitated to reply, his ear twitching lightly. He set his cookie aside, opting to lift his cup as well. He sipped for a moment, then returned the cup to its place, letting out a quiet breath before responding.
"If you also desire it," He met Yaku's gaze hesitantly, gingerly holding his eyes, "I wish to offer myself in entirety. I want to submit to you completely, as I did before."
Yaku hummed quietly, giving a little nod. "I thought as much, but rather than assume I wanted to be sure."
Shibayama blushed lightly, glancing away, clenching and unclenching his fingers nervously in his lap. Yaku noticed the movement, reaching out to place his hand over Shibayama's. The dark beta inhaled quietly before going still, Yaku lacing their fingers gently and stroking his thumb back and forth over Shibayama's knuckles.
"I would be amenable to that." Yaku murmured, Shibayama looking up and squeezing his fingers lightly. "If Lev is open to it."
Shibayama nodded slowly, tilting his head slightly to the side before asking, "Would you also desire me to serve…" He paused, waiting for Yaku to supply the name he should call his fiancé by.
"Haiba." Yaku said softly, "He will tell you when he feels comfortable with anything else."
"Haiba." Shibayama repeated, continuing on quietly. "Am I to serve Haiba as well?"
Yaku hummed thoughtfully, tilting one of his ears towards the bedroom door. "I am uncertain if Lev will have any interest in personally experiencing such a dynamic, though I imagine he may express some interest in the idea of watching us together."
Shibayama's cheeks warmed at Yaku's reply, the dark beta watching him curiously. "Haiba mentioned Kozume earlier. Are the two of you still intimate?"
"We are." Yaku replied with a soft smile, his tone warm and affectionate. "We live together now. He's been at the hospital the past few days with his partners. His husband is pregnant with their first child." He met Shibayama's eyes, adding gently, "I'm certain you will have the opportunity to see him again, assuming Lev is comfortable with the idea of you staying with us for a while."
Shibayama nodded lightly, glancing across the living room towards the kitchen. "You have a lovely home."
"Thank you." Yaku murmured softly, watching Shibayama for a long moment before asking quietly, "You asked my sister where to find me?"
Shibayama ducked back his ears slightly, but nodded, Yaku letting out a quiet sigh.
"If I were to have turned you away," Yaku asked, rubbing his thumb against the curve of Shibayama's palm, "Where would you have gone?"
"I don't know." Shibayama admitted quietly, a sad little smile twisting up his lips. "I hadn't planned that far. I bought a train ticket without a second thought. I didn't even pack a bag." He laughed quietly, tilting his head slightly to the side. "She told me you were getting married, and the rest of the world turned black and white. I wasn't thinking straight, I had tunnel vision. All I knew was I needed to see you, to speak with you. In the years we've been apart my feelings for you have never changed. I couldn't just…"
He pinched his brow, tears starting to overflow.
"I couldn't just accept that. I couldn't-"
"Breathe." Yaku whispered gently, reaching out to wrap his arms around Shibayama's shoulders, tugging him closer to his chest. "Breathe, Yuuki. Just breathe."
Shibayama sniffed shakily and hid his face against the curve of Yaku's neck, whimpering softly, "I love you. I love you."
"I know, sweetheart." Yaku whispered back gently, combing his fingers through Shibayama's dark hair. "Shh, listen to me. My feelings for Lev in no way affect my feelings for you. The love I have for him, and the feelings I carry for you, they are both cherished places in my heart." He pulled back enough to catch Shibayama's eyes, adding softly, "Bonding with Lev is not an attempt to replace you. Do you understand? You are precious to me. You have a place in my heart that will always be yours and yours alone. Nothing can ever change that."
"Y-You don't love me anymore." Shibayama said softly, sniffing and ducking his head, trying to even out his breathing. "I-I broke our contract, I wasn't-" He coughed softly, reaching up to press his hand against his trembling lips, "I didn't listen to or obey your commands, even when you were trying your very best to help me-"
"I don't trust you anymore." Yaku clarified, his tone patient and calm. He tucked some of Shibayama's dark hair away from his eyes, holding his gaze quietly. "That trust has the potential to be rebuilt over time, but I must warn you now before we begin that if you repeat the same mistakes this time, I will never give you another chance again." He pet Shibayama's cheeks, wiping away his tears slowly. "Do you hear me, Yuuki? Do you understand what I'm telling you?"
Shibayama sniffed softly, nodding and lifting his gaze slightly. "I understand, Morisuke. I won't make the same mistakes again. I won't disappoint you. I want to be good for you, I want to earn your trust."
Yaku's expression twisted a bit, his brow arching as he offered Shibayama a tender smile. "Never say that I don't love you. Never believe that. Not for a moment. Okay?"
Shibayama blinked slowly, tears trailing down his cheeks as he searched Yaku's eyes. "Okay. Okay."
Yaku held his eyes for a moment longer before leaning close enough to press their lips together gently, Shibayama clinging to his arm and inhaling softly in surprise. Yaku pulled back a moment later, murmuring against Shibayama's lips, "Breathe."
Shibayama inhaled shakily, blinking back tears and searching Yaku's eyes, and when Yaku leaned close again Shibayama kissed him back gently, his fingers curling against the soft curve of Yaku's throat.
Thanks for reading! More to come!
