Visibility

By: Aviantei

Chapter 20: Impression

For some reason, Youta got the impression that Akashi Seijuro didn't like Nigou much.

It wasn't like the Rakuzan captain was actively showing disgust or anything of the sort, but there was just some vibe in the air that Youta couldn't shake off. After being let in by Chinatsu, Nigou had followed the two boys into the living room for some tea, and it took Youta about four consecutive tries to get the puppy to sit down so the leash could be detached. Regardless, Youta couldn't help but be the least bit grateful that he wasn't on Akashi's bad side.

Sorry, Nigou, but that's how it works, he mentally apologized, finishing fumbling with the leash's hook and separating it from Nigou's collar. The dog only turned his head and trotted away to his bed in the living room's corner.

It seemed Youta's apology was going unaccepted.

"Sorry that took so long. It's just been such a long time since you visited, Akashi-kun, it took me a while to find your favorite kind of tea!" Chinatsu trilled, wielding a tea tray into the room and placing it on the table without the cups or pot rattling. "I'm sorry that Tetsuya isn't home right now, though. I'm sure he'd be glad to see you."

Chinatsu sat down in an armchair to the side of the coffee table, smiling brightly. Akashi's expression lost its glare as his focus shifted away from Nigou, but it didn't brighten any more than that. "It's no trouble," the boy said, reaching for his teacup. "I have the rest of the day free, and since this is important, I'm more than willing to wait any amount of time necessary." It was with a ridiculous amount of grace that Akashi took a sip of his tea and returned the cup to the table. "May I ask where he's gone?"

"He's on a date with Ai-chan," Youta answered, even if he hadn't been the one asked. Akashi turned to him, a not quite questioning look on his face. It was still somehow intimidating, and Youta broke eye contact by focusing on his own cup of tea. "My sister," he clarified, missing a chunk of confidence from his voice that he hadn't realized had gone missing. Hoping to regain his voice, Youta sipped at his tea.

"So then you're Youta." Youta almost choked from a combination of the tea's bitterness and hotness, a Akashi's knowledge of his name, and the sheer lack of honorific use. The redhead hadn't even asked if that was right, just stated a fact. "Tetsuya did say you and Airi were staying here, but I didn't expect to meet you as individuals…"

Youta tensed up a bit more. Akashi Seijuro knew about his existence. This was insane. Akashi was the leader of the Generation of Miracles, plus the captain of Rakuzan. Even though Seirin had defeated the team, that didn't make their status any less intimidating. Having his tongue shrivel up from the bitterness of the tea wasn't helping Youta's nerves, either.

And he just drank it with a straight face? I knew the Generation of Miracles was a bunch of monsters on the court, but this is just ridiculous!

"So you haven't met Airi-san, Akashi-kun?" Chinatsu asked. "Oh, she's just the sweetest thing. She and Tetsuya are absolutely adorable together, too! Things have been difficult for her and Watanabe-kun, lately, which is why they're here, but I do hope everything works out…" Tetsuya's mother frowned a bit, starting to toy with the fabric of her skirt.

Akashi nodded. "Tetsuya did mention that there were troubles, which is why I came to visit." Youta's eyes flashed back to the redhead. The latter's expression hadn't changed, no matter how much the older Watanabe twin combed over it. He kept trying, but he couldn't manage to get a read on Akashi, although it felt more like an intentional barrier than Tetsuya's naturally placid expression. With precision, Akashi's mismatched eyes locked onto Youta. "Ideally, I would speak to Tetsuya about the matter first, but since you're here, I guess it's a good enough place to start."

"M-me?" Youta stuttered. It was probably for the best he had put his tea cup back down, otherwise it probably would have dropped it.

"Yes, you," Akashi repeated, then continued without hesitation, "I have been led to believe that your recent string of incidents has caused some tensions in your family, mostly centered around money and Airi's safety. Is this correct?"

There was a level of bluntness in Akashi's voice that stung. Still, Youta was far past the point of it being acceptable to feel sorry for himself. "Yeah, pretty much," he confirmed. "My mistakes and Airi's stay in the hospital added a bit too much of a financial burden we can't handle, plus convinced Ka-san that we can't stay here anymore." Youta glanced at Chinatsu. How much did she know? "I don't think that's fair to Airi, especially with her dreams, so I want to do everything I can to keep her here."

Akashi nodded, confirming his understanding of the information. There was no need to elaborate. It was a bit concerning how much Tetsuya had presumably told his former captain about the situation, but if it could lead to help, Youta didn't care much. "And aside from your current stalling tactic, what do you think is the best course of action?"

Youta winced. "I…I don't know about specifics," he admitted. While his brain felt less cluttered, going for a run hadn't yet quite created an epiphany. "Best case scenario, I would want to show Ka-san that it's safe here, because then she'd be more likely to work out something with the money. Still, I know there's no easy way to do that in the time we have.

"That means the solution is to come up with the money we need, either in one giant burst or enough of an income change to make managing bills possible. I can get a job, but I won't be able to earn much just starting out. Oyaji only earns so much as a journalist, and he has a more limited amount of time he can reasonably work. Ka-san just is just transferring in, and her promotion back at home is the only thing we can really see as giving us the boost we need, which is why she wants to move back. That being said, the only other way to get the cash we need is if something big like the lottery or a random donation happen, which the chances for are insane…"

Youta shut his mouth. He had already answered the question and had just ended up rambling afterwards. He went for his teacup again, despite the taste. He was at least a little bit more prepared this time, which made it the slightest bit more bearable. Out of the corner of his eye, Youta could see Chinatsu standing up and leaving the room.

Akashi exhaled, a soft sound that Youta barely picked up on. "Putting your sister aside, what's the benefit for you if you stay?" Akashi asked. The question had too much of a casual tone to it for the subject matter, as if Akashi dealt with these sorts of scenarios every day.

Putting Airi aside. The idea had never really occurred to Youta, so it was weird to think about things like Airi wasn't his whole world, and there was a definite gap in his thoughts without her. Youta didn't quite get the point of the question, but he considered it anyway, assuming Akashi knew what he was doing. For a while, Youta couldn't come up with anything, except—

You could play basketball with everyone.

No, that was wrong. If they found a way to stay here, then Youta was definitely going to need to work in order to help out. Airi would be in Tetsuya's hands, and Youta would probably have to leave school. If he was only considering himself, things would be better back in Sendai, where he and Airi would go to school together, and he could join the basketball team there instead.

"Not much, I guess," Youta said. He glanced at Akashi, who was definitely studying him. "I mean, that is, if I'm just considering benefits directed at me. But, really, I don't care. More than any of that junk, I just want Airi to be happy, so that's it." Youta shrugged, not knowing what else to add or what sort of reaction Akashi would have. Just what was the redhead trying to figure out with these questions anyway? "As long as Airi gets what she wants, then to hell with me. She won't like that answer, but that's all I have to give right now."

Akashi didn't say anything. He finally stopped staring down Youta, and the latter felt a pressure lift off his shoulders that he hadn't realized was there. Akashi just went back to his tea, closing his eyes.

Youta had the feeling that the conversation was over, whether he liked it or not.

Tetsuya had just finished paying the bill for the café, and was now waiting for Airi outside the restroom. Curious about the time, he pulled his phone out of his pocket, powering it back on. He had turned it off for the sake of prioritizing Airi during the date, but since the café was missing a visible clock, he had to cheat a little bit. A few seconds after starting up, his phone began to light up with alerts from his emails. There were only a few, and they could wait just a little bit longer until he got home.

Except that one was from his mother.

It wasn't as if Chinatsu never messaged him—most of the times there were things about remembering family events or Nigou, wishing him luck in games or tests, and occasionally a request to pick something up on his way home from school—but she shared Tetsuya's stance on texting while going out on a date, so she respected that boundary. The fact that she was breaking that rule had to mean that it was something important.

Tetsuya navigated his phone to the messages menu.

I know you might not get this, but just in case—Akashi-kun came over to visit, and he and Watanabe-kun are talking about what's going on with him and Airi-san's family right now. I don't want you to rush, but if you can, I think you should head home.

Tetsuya blinked. Akashi had come over to visit? The blue-haired boy hadn't been expecting that, though he had been preoccupied with planning his date with Airi. Seeking further clarification, Tetsuya navigated through his messages again. His former captain's name had shown up as one of his notifications, and sure enough, had been attached to a message.

Tetsuya,

I have the afternoon free today, so I'll be stopping by to visit. I would like to discuss the situation with your girlfriend's family in further detail, and I think face to face is the best way to accomplish this.

As I had Kaizuto tell you, I'm willing to offer my help if you need it.

The door to the restroom opened and Airi emerged. Right on cue, she caught on to Tetsuya's state of mind, tilting her head a bit in curiosity. "Is something wrong, Tetsuya-kun?" she asked. Her hands reached out for his, coming into contact with his phone. "Did something happen?"

Tetsuya wasn't sure how to answer that. While something was happening, it wasn't exactly anything wrong. Then again, he wasn't sure what to expect with Akashi getting involved. And while the Rakuzan captain could probably find a solution, Tetsuya didn't know if it would be one Airi would accept.

Akashi-kun is powerful, but he's still changing. I haven't been around him enough to know how he's been thinking lately. Kaizuto-san trusts him, but she's always done that. And even if he can help…

Despite what he wanted, there was still an uncertainty for Tetsuya when it came to Akashi.

"Akashi-kun is apparently at the house right now," Tetsuya answered. Airi perked up a bit in interest. Even so, her enthusiasm didn't stop Tetsuya from feeling bad. "I'm sorry to cut off our date, but it sounds like this might help us with your problem." A bit of Airi's excitement dimmed, but she seemed a bit more determined than before, her expression set. "Would you mind if we headed back?"

"That's fine," Airi agreed. Tetsuya returned his phone to his pocket before taking back her hand. "I feel bad for making people I haven't even met get involved in this, though…"

"I wouldn't worry about it too much. Akashi-kun's so stubborn he won't change his mind no matter what you tell him." In some ways, that was a strength just as much as it was a weakness. "If he wants to help out, I don't think even Kaizuto-san could talk him out of it."

For whatever reason, Airi repressed a giggle. Tetsuya couldn't formulate a response, so he started to lead the way back to the train station. Somehow, he had the feeling that Airi had managed to understand something about Akashi and Kaizuto without ever seeing them together.

Airi took a breath to try and smooth out her nerves. Before, she had been excited about meeting Akashi, despite the circumstances. After the train ride and walk required to get back to Tetsuya's house, she wasn't sure she was ready yet. The travel time had been enough to remember everything she had heard about Akashi from Tetsuya, Youta, and even Kaizuto—how he was the leader of the Generation of Miracles, the captain of one of the top basketball clubs in the country, a member of the student council, as well as a prodigy. It was almost enough to make her head spin.

And apparently this person wanted to meet her, and over her family's problems to boot.

"Airi-san," Tetsuya said, a reassuring tone in his voice, "please don't worry. I know this situation isn't ideal, but I'm sure that things will be fine with Akashi-kun." There was a bit of a tremble in his voice; not quite a lie, but almost like concern. Airi frowned a little.

"Tetsuya-kun," she said. Her boyfriend stopped, not yet opening up the door. "I'm sorry, but it sounds like you're worried, too. I know I'm having troubles right now, but you can still talk to me if you need to."

"Ah." Tetsuya almost breathed the sound. After a moment of consideration, Airi could sense his smile, even if it was just a small one. "You're right. I'm sorry," he apologized. Airi waited for Tetsuya to finish collecting his thoughts. "It's just that I haven't seen Akashi-kun since shortly after the Winter Cup. I don't know what to expect is all."

Airi nodded. While she had never encountered the scenario on her own, she could imagine somewhat what it would be like. "Well, we'll be here for each other, so that should be enough. I mean, Akashi-san is your precious friend, right?" Tetsuya hesitated again, and Airi's frown deepened. In the end, though, the boy nodded. "Then no matter what, it should be fine." She found Tetsuya's hand to give it a reassuring squeeze. "Let's go."

"Right." Tetsuya opened the door, and Airi was able to follow behind. While she had only been in the Kuroko house for a few days, she had worked at memorizing the layout to distract herself from her worries, so Airi could make it to the living room on her own.

"Ai-chan!" Youta exclaimed. There was a rattle of glass on glass, and Youta scrambled to stand up, his clothes ruffling against the couch. "I didn't think you'd get back so soon. Listen, I don't know what's going on but I think—"

"Airi," a new voice said. Airi almost shuddered. Behind Youta there was an undeniable presence, one that would be distinguishable in a crowd, almost like Tetsuya. The difference was that this presence was more outstanding, like it wouldn't stand not being noticed. Airi had never encountered a person like this before. "This is our first time meeting. I am Akashi Seijuro."

Airi couldn't say anything. She just nodded. This was Akashi; there was no denying it now that she had the name. Somehow, the presence matched up perfectly with everything she had heard about him. And even if Airi never encountered him again, Airi knew she would never forget what being around him felt like.

No one else said anything, either. Tetsuya squeezed her hand, and Youta was pouting about being interrupted, but they both kept silent. Akashi didn't continue his introduction, but Airi didn't think he was waiting for her to respond. She didn't think she could even if he was. But with the room silent, she understood.

Akashi was watching her, his eyes almost as powerful as his presence. Airi remembered what Tetsuya had said—about Akashi's sense of observation. What was he seeing when he looked at her? What was he trying to figure out? Airi couldn't tell. So she just waited, trying to imagine what his eyes would look like if she could actually see them.

Akashi's gaze finally left her, though Airi had no idea where it had gone as a result. A bit of tension seemed to have left Tetsuya's grip, and Airi felt herself release some as well. Whatever the Rakuzan captain had been doing, it didn't seem like he was going to explain it, light footsteps padding away on the carpet and towards the hallway.

"Tetsuya, we need to talk," Akashi said. While it wasn't quite a command, Airi still felt herself let go of Tetsuya's hand as her boyfriend nodded.

The former teammates left the room, and Youta came forward, taking Tetsuya's place. The scowl was evident in his voice, replacing his former pout.

"Ugh, just what the hell was that all about?"

Posting early (or at least attempting to) since I don't want to post late again.

Thanks to LeoInuyuka, CherryPop0120, Tamani, Naturedrag, Indirianna, OnceUponAnAubi, Mashmallow Castle, and Kari Winters for your respective reviews, favorites, and follows. Sorry for not replying to reviews like usual. Life decided to be exceptionally hectic the past few days.

Yes, Akashi. Man I love him. With the end of the manga, I was worried I'd have to majorly revamp these scenes with him involved. but the more I thought about it, the more I realized my original theories about Akashi's character held up. As for what those are...well, maybe asking Megumi would be helpful?

So, I guess it's time to let the cat out of the bag-Visibility will be coming to an end before the end of the year. The chapters have been written out, it's only a matter of waiting for posting dates. I'll save all the sentimentalities for the final chapter.

In a pathetic attempt to distract you all from that news, here's the second half of the POV omake!

Happy Thanksgiving to you guys, too!

Side: Airi

By: Aviantei

A Visibility Omake

Airi's hands pressed against the wall, stopping her from falling over. The wallpaper boarder felt strange against her finger, not the only thing around to serve as a reminder that they were in a different home now. The carpet sunk a little too deep, the air smelled sterile, and even the temperature felt a few degrees too warm. She would never say anything, but she still felt a little homesick.

Youta had told her to stay in her room, not wanting her to get lost. The idea was silly. She was only going to adjust even slower to their surroundings if she was cooped up all the time. She needed to feel the place in order to get used to it.

The bedrooms were small, but that was fine. She and Youta had always shared a room. Finding out that the new house had three bedrooms had been surprising. She hoped her parents weren't overextending themselves.

Reaching the end of the hall, Airi hesitated. There was just open space, and boxes were sure to be scattered everywhere, unpacked from the move. She didn't want to trip, but she didn't want to be a coward either. Stepping out a foot, and then the other, she eventually made it to the kitchen and sat down at the table without incident.

She didn't know what time it was. Her clock was still buried in one of the boxes, and the kitchen appliances weren't of much use. All she knew was that Youta had been gone longer than necessary, and she was starting to get worried. He wouldn't mean to, but there was still a chance that he would get in trouble.

She heard a door open. It was still unfamiliar to her, just like any door. Airi had been able to identify every door in their old home just by the sound of their doorknob. The new front door was foreign. She didn't even know what it looked like.

Then she heard the footsteps. Even with the different floor, she could tell it was Youta. His shoes clattered against the wall and floor as he kicked them off. No one else had footsteps like his. He probably didn't even notice.

"Ai-chan, I'm home!" he called out. He sounded out of breath, but other than that he was fine. His footsteps grew closer, stopping once he entered the kitchen. His breathing paused, then Airi could tell he was smiling—intuition. "Sorry I'm late; I had a harder time finding some place with carryout than I thought." He placed a bag on the table, the plastic rustling. The smell of fast food hit her nose. Not exactly an extravagant first meal in a new home, but it would do.

Airi smiled back at him. "Welcome home, Nii-san."

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