WARNING! If you don't like yaoi (boy x boy) then please don't read this.
Kuroko no Basuke as well as the cover image used for this story both belong to their respective owners.
This is a roleplay story done by KurokoTetsuya101 and The Lucky Bell.
Kuroko's breath hitched as he looked at the Akashi standing before him. All this time, he was challenging himself, torturing himself, doing anything to make him feel how he is now. All this times it's been himself, not Nijimura.
He hit Akashi's (his?) arm away and stepped back. "You can't be my real emotions. I would never want to hurt anybody! You're not real!"
Akashi smiled, closing his eyes. "Now you're denying my existence?" He opened his eyes once again but instead of Akashi's beautiful crimson and golden eyes, they were teal blue. Kuroko took another step back when the person in front of him changed from Akashi to... himself.
The person standing before Kuroko was the exact copy of himself, however instead of a normal white sclera, the other Kuroko's sclera was pitch black with teal blue irises.
"Do you see it now? I am you and you are me." The black-eyed Kuroko smiled before taking a step forward and embracing the original tightly. "So foolish~ So foolish you are. Locking your true feelings inside you all this time."
"L-Let go. You aren't my true feelings." Kuroko struggled in the other's tight hold but even if he knew who the other was now, he still didn't have control over the dream. He did try pinching himself in hopes of waking up but it didn't work. "You aren't me. I'm not whatever you are. You can't be me.."
"If I'm not you then how come I can remember it so clearly... the punches, the assaults, the endless torture others made you go through. The need for revenge you had..." Black eyed Kuroko tightened his hold on the original, smiling. "The good things and the bad things. Even the time we spend with Seijuro. Those times that are the happiest times of our life."
"If you're me.. then why did you do all of this to me?" Kuroko asked the copy of himself. "Why did you put me through all this torture as well? Why are you reminding me of the past I.." Or would it be we? "..wanted to forget?"
"Why should you forget?" The other asked with a cold tone, "You're trying to erase your past but you can't deny that it's a part of you. You should never forget the past. It's foolish to do so." Black-eyed Kuroko moved so that he could look into Kuroko's face, his hands still holding Kuroko's shoulders tightly.
"If you forget the past then there is no future. You have to learn from your mistakes. Yes... We have to do everything in our power to secure our happiness and get revenge on everyone who did us harm." Black-eyed Kuroko smiled.
"But.. the only one who hasn't hurt me is my parents and Kagami-kun.." Before he got together with his Seijuuro, both him and Kise bullied him just like everyone else. But Seijuuro was now his fiancé and Kise was his friend.. "And I'm happy now. I don't need to take revenge."
"Don't lie. Lying to yourself is useless. You know, somewhere deep inside you... you're insecure. We know that there is a possibility of Seijuro leaving us. After all, you're both male. There is no guarantee he'll stay with you." Black-eyed Kuroko tightened his grip on Kuroko's shoulders.
"You know, don't you think Momoi-san is a beauty? I know you do since we share the same feelings. She could easily take Seijuro away... but even if we kill her and prevent her from doing that, we also have to have revenge on Akashi. He prevented us from seeing Seijuro as well~ In the end, the only ones we can depend on are ourselves."
"N-No, I can't.. I can't even imagine killing anyone.." Kuroko murmured, shaking his head. He didn't want to think about killing anyone, much less Momoi. "But Akashi is a nice guy, we don't need to hurt him! Besides if we hurt him, we'd hurt Seijuuro.."
"That's a small price to pay compared to what Seijuro did to us in high school before he fell in love with us. A few scratches here and there will be sufficient~" The other put his hand on Kuroko's head, stroking his hair. "We want Seijuro back with us and we want revenge on those who did us harm all those years. If you listen to me, we can get all those things we want~"
Kuroko remained quiet for a few moments. It was obvious he was thinking hard about his decision. He slowly moved his hands to hold onto the replica's shirt, his grip tightening. "Can we really get Seijuuro back..?"
"Yes." The black eyed Kuroko smirked, but not that Kuroko could see as the other was hugging him while stroking on his hair gently.
Kuroko closed his eyes, leaning into the other Kuroko. If trusting this copy of himself was the only way to get Seijuuro back, he had to do it. "How? How can we get Seijuuro back?"
The other Kuroko's smirk widened, "That's easy. All we have to do is get rid of Momoi-san. She's a dangerous factor, one that can take Seijuro away from us. Once she is gone, we'll have to punish Akashi for interfering with our honeymoon. When all is done, Seijuro will return to us."
"I don't have to kill her, right?" Kuroko asked, pulling away slightly to look at the other. He didn't get to see the smirk since it disappeared before he got a chance to notice. "Is there any other way?"
"Of course, 'getting rid of her' doesn't necessarily have to be killing but I'll leave that up to you to decide." Now that he was facing Kuroko again, he could notice the other's troubled expression. He smiled before placing his hand on Kuroko's cheek again, "Say, isn't what I'm doing 'love'?"
Kuroko gave him a look of surprise. This really was a way of showing love wasn't it? He leaned into the touch and smiled a little. "Earlier you said I should rely on myself.. does this mean I should love myself too?"
"If you don't love yourself then you cannot love anyone else." Black eyed Kuroko moved his hand away from Kuroko's cheek to reach out for something behind him. "Isn't that the answer you've been looking for?"
"Is that the answer?" Kuroko asked with a frown. This whole time, that's been the answer?
"I'm asking you." The dark eyed Kuroko smiled as he moved his hand that was behind him to reveal a knife in his hand. "It seems you are still incompetent to truly understand~ Very well, I believe you know what you have to do. Until next time~"
Kuroko's eyes widened when he spotted the knife but he didn't have time to react as his other self moved to attack. Kuroko braced himself for the impact but instead of feeling a knife pierce through him, he felt something completely different.
"Ku...Kuro... Kuroko! Kuroko are you alright?"
Kuroko jolted up, his eyes immediately snapping open. His hand went to his heart, not only to feel it's wild beat but to make sure there really was no stab wound there. He wondered what woke him up until he spotted Akashi awake beside him, looking worried. He remembered what the other Kuroko said and looked away. He didn't know what to say or do. He was so confused. This is how he always felt after a nightmare and he was tired of it.
"I'm sorry for waking you up but you kept on repeating the word 'kill' and seemed in pain. Are you really alright? Should I take you to the infirmary after all?" Akashi worriedly looked Kuroko over, placing his hand on his shoulder for support.
"No.. No, I'm okay." Kuroko muttered, his hands clenching at the bed. He was tired of all these nightmares and the feelings he gets afterwards. "I'm fine."
Akashi wasn't convinced but if Kuroko didn't want to tell him then he didn't want to probe and invade his privacy. "Dinner will begin soon. If you're feeling unwell than I could bring you a plate to the room?"
"No. I'm okay. Really, I am." Kuroko assured Akashi, finally looking at the other. If he wanted to get his Seijuuro back, he had to do what his other self said.. He had to get rid of Momoi first.
Akashi knew for sure that something wasn't right but had a hard time deciding if he should ask the bluenette. if it was his other self he would know what to do... But its not so he'll leave Kuroko be for now. Akashi took off his shirt and headed to the bathroom to get ready, "Kuroko, just know that I'm here if something is troubling you." he said before closing the doors of the bathroom.
Kuroko stared at the bathroom door before flopping onto his back once more. He didn't feel like getting up and going out to eat. He didn't want to run into anyone like Kagami or.. Momoi. But if he wanted to get Seijuuro back, he had to do something.
With slow movements, Kuroko finally got up and went to their stuff to get dressed. He has to make a plan for Momoi whether he finds her tonight or not.
After a few minutes, the bathroom doors opened to reveal a fully dressed up Akashi. The redhead looked over at Kuroko who was ready as well. "Shall we go?"
Kuroko just nodded and followed Akashi out of the room. He wasn't as dressed as Akashi for dinner, but he didn't feel like looking for nice clothes just for dinner. "Where are we going to go tonight?"
"Well there's this five star restaurant on the upper deck. After hearing about it, everyone was excited to try it out so we arranged to have dinner there." Aomine had called him when Kuroko was asleep and begged him if they could go. Mainly because if they didn't have the redhead, they wouldn't even be able to afford to go there, so with a sigh Akashi agreed. Although now he regrets it, seeing how Kuroko is down... He should have cancelled it after Kuroko had woken up.
Great. Everyone was going to be there. How wonderful. "I can't wait then." He said instead with a shrug. "I mean if it's five stars, it must be really good." Kuroko said, holding back a sigh.
"It has a good reputation with restaurants around the world, not only on the cruise ship." Akashi noted, noticing Kuroko's troubled expression.
"Think there's one near Tokyo?" If the food ended up being good, maybe Kuroko would want to return to it again.
"Yes. They have their main restaurant in Tokyo. Some say that the food there is the best in the country." Akashi spared a couple of glances at the bluenette, without the other noticing.
"Maybe we can go one day." Kuroko suggested, looking over at Akashi. "Me and you.. because you'll stay by my side, right?"
"Definitely. When we come back home we could go." Although Akashi wasn't sure if he would be able to make it…
"Okay." Kuroko looked ahead again, looking around for the restaurant. "Is that one it?" It was the first one he saw that showed the five stars next to its name proudly.
"That's the one." Akashi nodded as they both ventured inside. The restaurant was beautiful and gave off a luxurious vibe from the outside, but inside it was on another level. Fountains, luxurious decorations and a beautiful large chandelier in the center of the restaurant. Akashi and Kuroko admired their surroundings when a voice called out to them, specifically the bluenette.
"Tetsu-kun!" Momoi called out, running to the said person before hugging him tightly. Behind her were Aomine and Midorima.
"Yo Tetsu!"
"You're late."
Kuroko held back a grimace when Momoi hugged him. This was the person he was supposed to get rid of.. "Sorry we're late. I held us back. I apologize."
"No! No! No! It's alright! As long as Tetsu-kun came!" Momoi tightened her hug before Aomine unglued her from the bluenette. "Annoying."
"Shut up ganguro!"
"Oi! Don't call me that!"
Akashi and Midorima smiled while Kuroko maintained his serious face. It didn't go unseen by the redhead and some others in the room. But then Akashi remembered something...
"Momoi, could I talk to you privately?"
"Huh? What is it?"
"I'll tell you when we're alone." Akashi hinted and Momoi nodded. "Later then Tetsu-kun!" Momoi waved as she and Akashi walked away.
Kuroko's breath heightened a little when Akashi lead Momoi away. Why did they need to talk privately? Was something going on between the two? Even so, Kuroko refused to hurt either one of them. He was not going to kill or hurt anyone. He'd think of a way to get rid of Momoi soon enough.
"Tetsu? You okay?" Aomine waved his hand in front of Kuroko's eyes to grab his attention. The bluenette was completely spaced out.
Kuroko blinked and looked over at Aomine. For a second he was worried that he was somehow caught with his intentions, but it looks like Aomine was just worried. "What is it? Is there something you need?"
"No, you just looked spaced out. Ah but now that you mention it." Aomine leaned close so that only Kuroko could hear him, "Did you see Kagami by any chance? I didn't see him since the island trip. That bastard is getting better at hiding."
"No.. I haven't seen him at all actually." Kuroko answered. "Maybe he got sick. I would check on him.. if I knew where his room was."
"You don't know? Man... And here I though you would give me a lead. I tried asking Akashi but he told me that Kagami asked him not to tell me. That bastard... Always running away and hiding." But now that he thought about it... "Can I ask you a favor? Could you ask Akashi and tell me?"
"Sure, I guess." Aomine was someone who he didn't even know before he was a nerd so he supposed it would be alright to help him. "Whenever he comes back."
"Yes! I owe you one Tetsu!" Aomine happily jumped up and down before Midorima placed his hand on the tanned male's shoulder.
"What is so exciting to jump for?" Midorima asked, looking at the bluenette.
"Nothing. Right Tetsu?" Aomine asked and Kuroko nodded, yet Midorima could notice that there was something bothering him. It's easy to tell for the soon to be doctor who studies human biology.
"You look down lately. Did something happen nano dayo?"
"Ah, no.. I'm fine. Really." Kuroko told Midorima, looking away from the two. Where was everyone else? Where was Kise who loved being surrounded by people and Murasakibara, the lover a food? They wouldn't miss an opportunity like this right? "Where's Murasakibara-kun and Kise-kun?"
"Where else would the giant be? He's at the food stand along with Midorima's date."
"Oi! I and Takao aren't dating!"
"Yeah, yeah. Ah and the annoying blonde couldn't come. Said something about being seasick after the storm." Now that he was talking about food, Aomine was beginning to be hungry. "I'll go to the food stand, wanna come with Tetsu?"
"Sure. Mind as well." Aomine was oblivious so it would be alright to stick with him. Midorima on the other hand was a bit too observant. Perhaps Kuroko should get better at hiding his feelings again.
But before Kuroko and Aomine could walk away, Midorima stopped the bluenette, grabbing his arm. "Wait." he said as he ruffled through his pocket. "Here take this. It's Aquarius's lucky item for today." Kuroko opened his hand and Midorima handed him a small notebook.
When he and Akashi talked before, Akashi told him all of his worries. After all, they were best of friends back in middle school and still are so Akashi confined in Midorima often. The redhead told him how Kuroko had seemed down lately so Midorima decided to search up Oha Asa and find Aquarius's lucky item. Hopefully it'll help Kuroko somehow.
"Oh.. thanks.." Kuroko looked at Midorima then at the notebook. What was he supposed to do with a notebook? "Anyway I'm hungry. Let's go Aomine-kun. Are you coming Midorima-kun? Or will you wait for Akashi?"
"I'll wait here."
"What? But your date is over there."
"Oi!"
Aomine giggled before pulling on Kuroko's hand. "Let's go Tetsu." And with that, the two headed over to the table. When they reached the food stand, they immediately spotted Murasakibara who was too occupied with shoving food into his mouth to notice them.
Kuroko watched Murasakibara eat alone for a few moments. He didn't seem upset about that. He just looked like he was happy to get some food. If he was to pair him up with someone, Momoi wouldn't really be the best choice. He didn't even think that Murasakibara would even be interested in anyone. He glanced at Aomine. Not him either because he seems to have something going on with Kagami... "The food looks good at least. It's five star after all."
"Ohh! Kuro-chin!? How long where you there?" Murasakibara was startled and even dropped some of his food.
"I just got here. So did Aomine-kun." Kuroko answered the other's question. "Do you like the food?"
"Ehhh~ I see~ Uhum~ The food here is really yummy~" Murasakibara said but soon after looked back at his food and noticed some missing. Then he looked over and noticed Aomine taking some of his. "Mine-chin! You can't take mine!"
Aomine stuffed his mouth, "Oh man this is really good! Tetsu try this!"
"But that's mine!" A dark aura was beginning to surround the purple head, not happy that his food is being taken from his plate.
"Whoa! Sorry! Sorry!" Aomine apologized but Murasakibara wasn't content. The giant took his plate and surrounded it with his hands, guarding it with his life.
Aomine and Kuroko deadpanned but then suddenly someone came up behind Kuroko and put their arm around Kuroko's shoulder. "Yo rival! Long time no see! So you survived the storm?" Takao who chewing on a cake asked.
"Oh.. the storm.. I'm still here right?" Kuroko turned to face Takao and looked at the piece of cake in his hand. Shouldn't he get a plate...? He looked around and grabbed a plate, handing it to Takao before he could make a mess and gain attention. If he hasn't already at least. "How are you enjoying the food? Is it really that good?"
"Ah thanks." Takao accepted the plate, "You didn't try any yet? That's the whole reason we came here!" Takao pouted before pushing Kuroko to the food stand. He reached over to grab a plate for him as well, "You should try one of each. Trust me, it's worth it."
"Even if I overeat and get sick?" Kuroko asked but didn't refuse. He looked at the foods, wondering if he'd even like the foods that he disliked to eat. "What would you recommend first then?"
"Hmmm... definitely the sushi! I think it's a good appetizer!" And as soon as he said it, Takao took two sushi and put them on Kuroko's plate. Meanwhile, Aomine appeared on the other side of the bluenette. "Sushi? That's a main dish idiot. You should start with meat! Men are all about meat!"
"Ehhh!? You say sushi is not an appetizer but meat is?"
"Yeah!" A battle of wills began and Kuroko found himself in between the two as they both raced to put food on Kuroko's plate. Soon enough Kuroko's plate was filled with a mountain of food.
".. I don't.. I don't think I can eat all of this.." Kuroko mumbled and put the plate on the table so nothing could fall off. "I'll just look for food on my own, okay? So neither of you have to argue."
"But sushi/meat is the best!" The two said in unison before facing each other again. Now it has become a sort of a contest to see who could put more of the said food on Kuroko's plate. The two were so into it that they completely ignored the bluenette who would be eating the massive pile... Well he certainly won't eat it.
While the two were distracted, Kuroko backed away from them until he was out of their sights. Not that they'd notice either way. He sighed and looked around. What was he supposed to do now? Maybe he could just find a corner and relax away from everyone. Akashi would probably figure out where he was once he came back. He grimaced when he realized he was still with that girl. If they fall in love, he'd never get his Seijuuro back.
As he neared a corner table made for only two, he was disappointed to find a man already there. But not just any man. It was the drunken man he helped before the storm! And he was still drinking! But at least he looked way more sober than last time. Kuroko considered walking away but he had nothing to do anyway..
"Did you get to your room okay?" Kuroko asked the man after he approached him. He probably wouldn't remember Kuroko since he was drunk out of his mind when he helped him, but it was worth a shot.
"Huh?" The man looked up, "Waaa! Where did you come from?"
It's been a while since he's scared someone. It feels nice. "I just got here. But are you alright?"
"Che~ Are you picking a fight? If so then leave. I'm not in the mood." The man took a big sip of his red vine that was on the table. Even though he had a glass, he still drank from the bottle.
"I'm not trying to pick a fight. I'm just making sure you're okay. You were really drunk and if I hadn't helped you, you probably would've been soaked in that storm." Kuroko told the other.
The raven haired man looked at Kuroko directly, "So you're the pipsqueak that helped me? I couldn't remember you but the staff told me you had trouble carrying me so I guessed you would be small or weak. Looks like I was right." The man giggled before taking another sip.
Great. Of course the guy he helped was a jackass. No wonder why he found the man drunk. "So that was actually your room? Or did the staff have to take you to another?"
"Don't fret over the details. Tell you what, as a way to show my gratitude why not sit with me? Want some wine?" The other offered, kicking the chair on the other side.
Kuroko wondered if he should sit or not but with a shrug, he sat down anyway. Mind as well waste some time. However he did decline the wine. He wasn't one to drink. "What's your name anyway?"
The man smirked when Kuroko surprisingly sat down, "Hanamiya Makoto. You?"
"Kuroko Tetsuya." Kuroko didn't like that smirk, but he just left it be. "So if I may ask, why did you get drunk out of your mind?"
"I broke up with my girlfriend recently." Just remembering it made Hanamiya depressed, making him take another huge sip. "She said something about me not treating her well and shit."
"I see." Kuroko asked. This reminded him of something... "How did you treat her then?"
"How? I treated her like a queen and all I got in return was her breaking up with me! Can you believe it? She's ungrateful! Ungrateful little bitch!" After remembering his ex, Hanamiya was getting more and more annoyed.
Seeing the other's reaction, Kuroko decided not to stay on the topic. "So why'd you come out here tonight? For the food or.." He looked at the wine and didn't bother to finish his sentence.
"Isn't it obvious? If it helps I didn't come for the food." Hanamiya leaned on the table, starting to feel the effects of the alcohol slightly. "You look pretty down yourself. Could it be that you're in the same situation?"
"Hmm... I guess you could say that." Kuroko shrugged. "It's more of a complicated situation than a break up."
"What could be more complicated than a break up?" Hanamiya arrogantly asked but just as he did, he spotted an all too familiar face in the crowd before him. "That's her. That's my ex." Hanamiya pointed to the crowd, making Kuroko turn around to look.
Kuroko couldn't tell who he meant at first. All he saw was Akashi and Momoi walking over to the food table where Aomine and Takao were still arguing. Wait... "You mean the one with the pink hair?"
"Yeah! That one! You better watch out she's a real snake." Hanamiya leaned in so that Kuroko could hear him better, "You see that guy who's with her? The one with red hair? I bet she sweet talked him into dating her."
Kuroko clenched his hands tightly, narrowing his eyes as he looked at Momoi. If she was trying to take his Seijuuro away... "Ever thought of any.. revenge or something?" He asked Hanimaya, remembering the other Kuroko's words.
"Revenge? Haha! Many times~ What exactly do you have in mind?" Hanamiya smirked, liking where the conversation was going. Looks like the pipsqueak might be interesting after all.
"Why don't you get someone to pair her up with someone... who wouldn't treat her like we queen like you would." If it turned out okay, then Momoi was happy and he'd get his Seijuuro back. If it didn't... Well, Momoi could always break up with them right? He didn't want Momoi hurt after all.
"So let me get this straight. You want me to find another bastard for her? How does that benefit me?" What would he get out of the deal? And how would he get his revenge? "She already has the red haired guy so I don't see your point."
"I doubt that redhead would make her... suffer. I'm saying get her with someone who would make her realize that you were right. You know, make her come back to you. Wouldn't that he great to have her crawling back?" Kuroko asked.
"Hmmm... I like it. I like it very much! And I like you as well. Although I do wonder if you're just helping me for the sake of it. It makes me wonder if you know Satsuki. Don't tell me she dumped you as well?"
"Nah, I never got dumped by her. I'm just helping to help. I got nothing to do on this cruise anyway." Kuroko answered.
"Killing time? Heh~ Not like I care as long as I get what I want. Although, it would be better if you do the work for me~" Hanamiya's smirk widened as he leaned on his chair. "How about this, I give you one week for you to make her crawl back to me~"
"Got it. Is it bonus points if I do it in less than a week?" Kuroko asked with a playful smirk.
"Yeah whatever, just make her suffer~" Hanamiya couldn't hold in the amusement. He couldn't wait to see what Kuroko has planned. So interesting! "I wonder who you'll find in less than a week. Do you have someone in mind already?"
Kuroko hummed as he thought to himself. Is there anyone he knows that would make Momoi regret leaving Hanimaya without hurting her? He once again considered Murasakibara but he probably wouldn't even look at Momoi, and that's not enough...
Hanamiya felt better than ever before. Luck was finally smiling on him. "Well doesn't matter. Remember, one week. I'll be waiting." Hanamiya took one last sip of his vine before standing up and walking away. "See you later partner in crime~" He waved as he walked away and out of the restaurant, leaving Kuroko alone at the table.
Kuroko felt a little better as well. He finally had some sort of plan to get rid of Momoi. He took a moment to just relax and think before getting up to go to Momoi and Akashi.
Meanwhile as Kuroko was preparing himself, Momoi and Akashi joined the others.
"Where is Tetsu-kun?"
"Huh?" Both Takao and Aomine said in unison before looking around. Where did Kuroko disappear off to?
"He was here just a minute ago!" Aomine said, bending down to look under the table while Takao looked around. "Geez~ He sure is a phantom."
The both of them sighed before smirking, "I guess we get to eat his food then~"
"It can't be helped right~" The two wasted no time to gulp the food down their throats. While Aomine and Takao were eating like mad men, Momoi was beginning to worry.
"I hope Tetsu-kun is okay..." She said but then felt a hand on her shoulder.
"Don't worry. I'm sure he's around here somewhere." Akashi smiled to Momoi who looked up at him. She nodded and smiled back.
Kuroko grumbled as he spotted Momoi smiling at Akashi, vise versa. He needed to do something quick. He walked up to the two with a smile. "Hey, you guys are finally back. I was getting worried."
"Ah! Tetsu-kun!" When the pinkette spotted Kuroko, she immediately hugged him. "Where were you?"
Kuroko managed to hold back a frown when Momoi hugged him. "I was just walking around, looking at the food and decorations." He said before looking at Akashi. What were they talking about alone? Should he ask?
"I see. Did you find anything you like?" Akashi asked while Momoi let Kuroko go, but still stood by him and held his hand.
"Nah, not really. Then I saw you." Kuroko playfully winked. "But anyway, let's enjoy our time here, okay?"
Akashi was surprised and so was Momoi. The way Kuroko spoke and the way he behaves... its like he's a completely different person. "A-Alright. Let's join the others." Akashi suggested and the three walked up to the table where Murasakibara was. While Akashi spoke to the purple head, Momoi couldn't help but ask. "U-Um T-Tetsu-kun, are you okay?"
"I'm fine. Why do you ask?" Kuroko asked, glancing at Momoi. He supposed if he wanted to put his plan into action, he had to be kind to Momoi.
"W-Well... Somehow Tetsu-kun seems different... so I was wondering if something happened." She couldn't help but feel the change in the bluenette.
"Don't worry, I'm fine." Kuroko gently patted Momoi's head. "But if I seem different, is it a good different?"
"W-Well..." Momoi didn't know how to answer that question. She liked the previous Kuroko much better... But just when she was about to speak up, Akashi approached them. "I found this and thought you would like it." Akashi held up a huge Vanilla milkshake, giving it to Kuroko.
Kuroko's eyes brightened up when he was given the milkshake. "Thank you Akashi." He smiled as he took a few sips.
"You welcome." Akashi smiled when he saw how content Kuroko was. At least he would eat something tonight. On the other hand, Momoi was glad that Akashi came. She didn't know if she would anger Kuroko if she told him what she wanted to say.
They stayed for a little longer just to talk and enjoy the food. As much as he didn't want to, Kuroko stayed close to Momoi for the night. He finally had a guy in mind to put his plan into motion. When the time was right and the topic was perfect, Kuroko asked Momoi, "Hey Momoi-san, do you remember Kise-kun?"
"Ki-chan? Of course! How could I forget? We were all friends in middle school but I didn't see him yet. That's strange." Momoi put her finger on her lips trying to remember if she had seen the blonde on the ship but she couldn't remember.
"Well since we haven't really seen him in a while, why don't the three of us go out? You know, just explore the ship and have fun?" Kuroko suggested.
"That's a great idea! Let's do that Tetsu-kun!" Momoi excitedly replied, although she was still puzzled as to why she didn't see him yet.
"I'll call him in the morning, is that okay?" Kuroko asked Momoi. "He's probably tired tonight and already asleep."
"Of course! So tomorrow what time?"
"Let's say.. around noon? So we can get lunch?" Kuroko suggested.
"Deal. I can't wait." Momoi smiled as she hugged the bluenette again, by now its become a habit of sorts.
Kuroko patted her head, holding back a sigh. "Good~ I can't wait either."
And now the stage was set. Tomorrow Kuroko would re-introduce Momoi to Kise and hopefully something would happen between them. If it does, then Momoi will definitely be unhappy with Kise due to the amount of fan girls the model has. She probably won't hold out for long until she runs back to Hanamia. A perfect plan.
When the dinner finally ended, everyone scattered back to their rooms. Akashi was laying down in bed while Kuroko was taking a much needed shower.
After his shower, Kuroko took a few minutes to call Kise in the bathroom. He didn't want to bother Akashi if he was trying to sleep. When Kise answered after a few long rings, he sounded tired. Maybe Kuroko woke him up. Well, he didn't care. At the moment, Kise was just a pawn that would soon get what he deserved.
Kuroko went straight to business and asked Kise if he wanted to meet up for lunch with Momoi. The blond tiredly agreed and with that, it was set as stone. They'd meet up at a nice little cafe that wasn't as popular as say the five star restaurants. He hung up and went out to the room once he was dressed. "Tiring night." He said to Akashi as he laid down with a sigh.
Akashi who was reading a book, spared a glance at the bluenette before returning to the book, "It was. Did you enjoy it?"
"I guess so." Kuroko shrugged as he glanced at the book. "So watcha reading?"
"'The Wonders of the Mind' by Akira Fuji. It's interesting." Akashi said before picking up a bookmark from his bedside table and placing it in the book, placing the book down on the table. He then turned around to face Kuroko, laying down. "Do you have anything planned for tomorrow?"
"Sounds interesting." Kuroko shrugged. "I might go out with Kise-kun and Momoi-san. That's all. By the way, what were you and Momoi-san talking about if I may ask?"
Akashi's eyes moved to the side, "I'm sorry. I can't tell you."
"...I see." Kuroko answered flatly. "I understand." He lay down and covered his eyes with an arm. "I'm going to sleep."
Akashi didn't say anything but turned around to switch off the light. "Goodnight."
"Night." Kuroko mumbled, closing his eyes. He was a little scared to go to sleep but.. maybe he'd have a good dream this time.
When Kuroko had closed his eyes, he entered the world of dreams. His heavy eyes slowly opened and closed but instead of seeing his room he noticed bars surrounding him. Was he in a cage? The floor felt cold as well. It was probably a dream but Kuroko was too tired to do anything. He closed his eyes again, sleeping in a metal cage that was in the abyss of black.
When Kuroko opened his eyes again, he was back in the room. He looked to his side to see Akashi sleeping peacefully. He sighed and looked to the other side. The time on the clock made him sit up quickly. It was almost time to meet up with Momoi and Kise! He carefully got up so he didn't wake Akashi and started getting dressed. Of course he'd sleep in on the one day he needed to get up early! Once he was all dressed and ready, he left the room without waking up Akashi.
Kuroko ran to the upper deck where the three are suppose to meet. He ran and run until he spotted Momoi, standing in front of the coffee shop, waiting. When she spotted Kuroko in the distance, she waved "There you are Tetsu-kun. I was starting to think you wouldn't come."
"Sorry, I slept in." Kuroko apologized as he tried to catch his breath. "Where's Kise-kun..?"
"I didn't see him yet." Kuroko and Kise both didn't show up and that's why Momoi thought that the plan was cancelled. She was about to call Kuroko but luckily he came at the last second.
"Hmm.. Let's give him a few minutes. Who knows, maybe his fan girls are chasing him again." Kuroko shrugged.
"Fan girls? So Ki-chan is still a model? I thought he would quit in high school." Back in middle school Kise was really popular but it also annoyed many of his teammates who were jealous of him.
"He just has a knack for it I guess." Kuroko said, looking around for the blond. After a few minutes he pulled out his phone to call him.
It took a few dials for the blonde to pick up the phone, "Hello-ssu."
"Hey Kise-kun.." Kise sounded off.. Kuroko was hesitant to continue. "Where are you? Are you coming?"
"Sorry Kurokocchi, I thought I would be able to come but my sea sickness has gotten worse. I'm in bed-ssu."
"Sea sickness.." Didn't he hear about this from someone? "Sorry to hear that.. Do you need anything? You didn't come to dinner last night. Are you hungry?"
"Really? You would bring me something to eat? Thank you Kurokocchi! You're a savior! I'm starving."
"Don't mention it." Kuroko held in a sigh as he heard the energetic voice. "I'll be there soon." He said and hung up just as Kise started thanking him repeatedly. "Sorry Momoi-san, he can't make it. Sorry I have to cancel the lunch.." Great, now he had to reschedule! And if it's seasickness, who knows when Kise will be back on his feet?
"That's fine but is Ki-chan okay? Did something happen?" Momoi worriedly asked.
"He's just a little sea sick. It's probably best if you don't come, no offense. I don't want him to feel crowded and end up getting sick or something.." Kuroko sighed this time. "I'm going to get him food and bring it to him. You can return to your room if you'd like?"
"And here I was really looking forward to meeting him again. Well, it can't be helped. I'll go back to my then room. Take care of Kise-kun, Tetsu-kun." Momoi happily waved off as she walked away.
"Yeah." Kuroko mumbled to himself as he waved back. So his plan was ruined and he still had to buy food for Kise of all people. He grumbled as he went into the shop to get Kise some coffee and a plain sandwich. He didn't know his favorite food so this would do. Once he got the food paid for, he started for Kise's room. Luckily he knew the room number. He knocked on the door and when he got a groan in reply, he opened the door. "Kise-kun?"
"K-Kurokocchi..." There was a dark gloom surrounding Kise who was lying in bed. "T-Thanks for bringing food... I hope I don't throw it up..." The blonde muttered, laying down in bed.
Kuroko grimaced when he saw the other. He really was sick. What a bad thing to be on a cruise. "It was nothing. Don't worry about it." Kuroko walked closer and sat the container filled with food on the side table, then he went back to the door to turn on the lights.
"Sorry for the trouble." Kise wobbly sat up, putting his hand on his mouth. After that he picked up a bucket that was beside him and threw up.
Kuroko winced and looked away. He hoped he didn't have to stay long. It smelled bad already... "Want me to do anything? Need anything?"
"No, it's okay. I'm sorry Kurokocchi had to see me like this. Just give me a bit more time and I'll be better. I always get sea sick after a storm." Kise wiped his mouth with a tissue before opening up the sandwich.
"Okay.. I hope the sandwich is okay." Kuroko said. "I didn't know what you liked so.."
"Ah no, no. It's good! I like it." Kise smiled, taking a bite. He didn't care what it was as long as it was edible. He's so hungry that he could eat an elephant. "Sorry that I couldn't come. Could you tell Momoicchi that I'm sorry? I was really looking forward to seeing her again. Somehow I didn't see her yet and we're on the same ship! Isn't that bad luck-ssu?"
"It really is bad luck." Especially for Kuroko. "Don't worry, she already knows. I hope we can have a rain check?"
"Of course! I can come any-" Kise stopped mid sentence, quickly grabbing his bucket to throw up. When he did, he wiped his mouth. "I-I can come whenever Kurokochhi! haha…haha"
"I don't think you can." Kuroko said simply. This was bad. Who else was he supposed to hook up with Momoi? "Look, just rest up okay?"
Kise nodded, "Sorry Kurokocchi. When I get better you'll be the first one I call." He said before taking his sandwich again.
"Okay. Well... I should go. I need to make sure Akashi didn't forget I was going out." Kuroko said. He just wanted to get out of the smelly room quick.
"See you later Kurokocchi." Kise smiled as Kuroko closed the doors.
Kuroko left the hall and headed to his own room. Akashi was probably inside reading his book again. He opened the door and was surprised to find it empty. Where was Akashi? He didn't say he had any plans today... He closed the door and looks around. Where could he be? He started walking around, starting to look for him.
The first places he checked were the hallways and the public rooms near their room but Akashi was nowhere to be seen. Could he be looking for Kuroko? Maybe he really forgot that he was meeting up with Momoi and Kise? Kuroko had no choice but to continue searching.
He walked around when suddenly another person emerged from the corner. "Yo! Long time no see double traitor."
Kuroko looked back and spotted Kagami. He hasn't seen him in a long while, not since the island. "I'd appreciate it if you didn't call me that." With his plans being ruined and Akashi disappearing, he was obviously a little annoyed.
"But you betrayed me not once, but twice now. What else am i suppose to call you?" Kagami teasingly asked, walking towards the bluenette before placing his hand on his head, ruffling the hair.
If Kagami hadn't been on his side for years, Kuroko would've smacked his hand away. Instead he just shrugged. "So what are you doing out here? Hiding again?"
"Ugh! N-Not really... I just have nothing to do. I didn't see you in ages and this is how you greet me? Is it me or did you change a bit?" Kagami ruffled Kuroko's hair a bit more before giving the other some slack.
Kuroko shrugged and looked around, still looking out for Akashi. "So did you make up with Aomine-kun yet or something? You keep running away and he's not going to stop chasing you."
"No and I absolutely don't want to make up with him! Definitely not! Not after what he did to me!" When Kagami said that, Kuroko couldn't help but notice the small blush on Kagami's cheeks.
"And what exactly did he do?" Kuroko asked, crossing his arms. Now he was intrigued. What exactly happened between the two?
"Ugh..." Kagami's blush intensified. Just remembering it made his face tomato red.
It was around the time when Akashi had proposed to Kuroko that Aomine and Kagami met up to play street ball basketball. They were playing till sunset when they finally decided to call it a day.
"Did you hear the news? Apparently Akashi proposed to Tetsu." Aomine said out of the blue, bending down to get his water bottle. Meanwhile, Kagami who stood behind him froze. "What? Propose?"
"Yeah. That means they will be getting married idiot."
Kagami couldn't find any words and stood still. Married? The Kuroko he knew is getting married? Kagami couldn't help but be happy for his best friend. Finally after everything they have been through, Kuroko found his happiness in life. There's no way anybody would bully him now. If they did they would have to face the redhead demon.
A tear fell down Kagami's cheek. Looks like a new chapter in life is beginning for all of them.
While Kagami was getting emotional, Aomine noticed him spacing out and approached him, leaning so that their faces were inches apart.
"Oi." Aomine said, snapping Kagami out of his haze.
"W-What!?" Kagami was startled and took a step back but much to his misfortune he hit the fence behind him.
Aomine smirked, placing both of his arms on the fence around the redhead, trapping him in between his arms. "Your face is red you know~"
"S-Shut up. Move away." Kagami tried to push the other away but he didn't budge.
"You know since Tetsu and Akashi are settling down I have something to tell you."
"W-What?"
Aomine smiled, leaning his head next to Kagami's. "I've been watching you for a long time. Ever since the Winter Cup I always thought you were different."
Kagami was startled but kept quiet.
Aomine smiled before saying, "I like you Kagami. Go out with me." And with the revelation, Kagami's face became bright red as he was frozen in place.
"W-W-What? Y-You're joking right? Haha.." Kagami didn't know what to do but when Aomine's lips suddenly found themselves on his own, Kagami's heart was sent into overdrive. The redhead struggled to break the kiss but didn't find it in himself to do so. When they parted, Kagami quickly pushed Aomine away, making him fall down on the floor.
Kagami quickly grabbed his bag and ran out of the court. "D-Don't joke around!" And with a massive blush on his face, Kagami ran away, leaving a smiling Aomine behind.
"N-Nothing! He didn't do anything! Don't talk about that ever again." Kagami couldn't stop his massive blush so instead he put his hand on Kuroko's head again, bending it down so that he couldn't see his face. "Stay like that for a bit." There was a hint of plea in the redhead's voice.
"Alright, alright, just don't hold me down like that." Kuroko swiped his hand away and grumbled. "Let me guess, he did something like.. that with you? Something Seijuuro and I would've done?"
"I told you not to talk about it!" Kagami annoyedly said before turning around and slapping his cheeks. After making sure the redness on his cheeks has calmed down a bit, he turned back around to face Kuroko. "Changing the topic, what are you doing here? Shouldn't you be with your fiancé?"
"I don't know where he is. I was out looking for him until you came." Kuroko explained. "He never said he was going out.."
"Maybe he just wanted to explore the ship on his own?" That was the first explanation that came to Kagami's mind.
"But he wouldn't leave without even leaving a note.." This is exactly why he needed to get his Seijuuro back. Seijuuro would have never done this to him. He would have waited or left or note. Maybe he would've gone with him to lunch!
"Don't you think you're overreacting?" Kagami scratched his head, "He probably just went to eat or something. It's not like you're his mum so you have to follow him everywhere. I mean couples have to give each other some space right? Not feel restricted." At least that's how Kagami thought about it. When you marry, partners should give each other freedom but also trust so that they know they won't cheat with someone else.
"Yeah. I guess that's true." Kuroko looked away. He still felt betrayed but he didn't say anything. "I'm just worried is all. It's a couple thing."
Kagami smiled, couldn't help but to ruffle Kuroko's hair again. "Don't worry. He won't fall off the ship if you're worried about that. Trust the guy a little." After ruffling the hair he let go. "Wanna play some basketball? You look really stressed out, it might help relieve you a bit. For old time's sake?"
"There's a court in here?" Kuroko didn't know that. He hasn't played any basketball since they graduated... It would be nice to play again. "I wouldn't mind."
"Do you think I or any of the others would come if there wasn't one?" Kagami joked, "Let's go play then. You and me one-on-one."
"I can't wait to lose." Kuroko joked as well. Out of all the times they've done one on one, Kuroko's never won.
"Since when did you become so negative? Maybe a meteor will fall down on me and you'll win?" Kagami joked back, remembering when Kuroko told the team the same thing to try to motivate them, even though they were all unimpressed by it.
"And what, this cruise will become the titanic?" Kuroko joked back, playfully shoving Kagami even if the other barely budged.
"It doesn't have to be a big meteor. It can be a small one that could knock me out! See how negative you are? Geez~" Kagami laughed back. At least he had managed to cheer up Kuroko a bit. The other seemed really down so Kagami was glad he could do something about it.
"Okay, let just get to the court. Lead the way~" Kuroko smiled a little.
And Kagami did. While on their way, the two reminisced the past and joked around, Kagami's goal of cheering Kuroko up - a success. Even if for a little bit.
When the two finally reached the sports area of the cruise, they spotted many sporting courts along heir way. tennis, football, hockey and more! They walked down to the end of the hallway when they finally spotted a basketball court. However, they were surprised that somebody was already there playing alone.
"Takao-kun?" Kuroko called out to the other. How long has Takao been playing already?
Takao jumped up, startled, but when he turned around he saw Kuroko and Kagami walking into the court. "Yo~ Did you come to play too?"
"Of course. Why else would we come?" He asked with a smile. "Mind if we join you?"
"Not at all but if you wanna have a match then we're missing one person."
"Well, I don't know where anyone is except Kise-kun but he's.." Kuroko sighed. "Got anyone in mind?"
"I asked Shin-chan to come with me but he said something about meeting Akashi." When Takao came to invite him the green head was already on the phone.
Akashi? Why would they meet up? Maybe they wanted to catch up. "I see.. I don't know where Murasakibara is. Does anyone know?"
"Probably in a restaurant or somethin'" Kagami sighed, "It doesn't matter. The two of you can play against m-"
"One against two? I don't think that would be fair."
Kagami froze when he heard the familiar voice. His body barely turned around to see who it is. "Yo!" Aomine greeted with a smirk, moving his hand for Takao to throw him the ball. The raven head did and Aomine began spinning it on his finger.
"Two against two. How about that?"
"I guess that's fair. As long as Kagami-kun doesn't pair up with Aomine-kun." Kuroko smiled. Now they had an even number. But now he's worried about Kagami..
"I'm not playing if HE'S here!" Kagami folded his hands.
"Kagami-kun, please. I just want to play a game. Can't you just put your worries to the side for one game?" Kuroko asked while looking at his best friend.
Kagami's eyes moved from the puppy eyed Kuroko to a smirking Aomine. Kuroko then Aomine, Kuroko then Aomine. "Okay but on one condition. You'll be my partner." Kagami walked up to Kuroko to stand beside him, acting tough but was actually hoping Kuroko would be his shield of protection.
"Fine with me as long as we play. I won't go easy on you Tetsu."
"Good." Kuroko looked at Aomine before smiling at Kagami. "Thank you, Kagami-kun. Let's just have fun okay?"
"Now you owe me 1 year of Maji Burger!" Kagami said before lining up to begin. The match began and surprisingly or not surprisingly the match was evened out. Aomine and Kagami went all out, leaving little space for Kuroko and Takao to even do anything. Since it was only him and Kagami, Kuroko had a hard time using his misdirection but since he didn't play in a while he didn't mind. Basketball erased all of his worries and somehow helped him calm down. It always did whenever he was uncertain and troubled.
Eventually the match ended with Aomine and Takao as the victors. "Shit! We'll definitely win next time!"
"Yeah. I'd like to see that happen." Kuroko panted out but he was smiling. He wiped his forehead and looked around. A court like this should have water right? "Good game though."
"Good game Tetsu." Aomine apprached Kuroko and the two bumped fists. Meanwhile, Kagami and Takao walked over to where the towels were. "Catch." Kagami threw one to Kuroko but not to the tanned male.
"What about me?"
"Huh? You were there? Didn't see you." Kagami brushed him off, wiping the sweat from his forehead with one of the towels.
Aomine sighed, "I love you too~"
Kagami immediately blushed. "Did you hear something Takao? I sure didn't!" Kagami said and Takao giggled, but the raven head did throw Aomine a towel since Kagami didn't.
"Here's some water too." Takao offered.
"Toss me water too." Kuroko used the towel to wipe his face. Basketball was always such a good way to relieve himself of stress. He was glad he could just stop and play a game for once. It was actually fun…
"Catch." Takao threw the bottle and Kuroko caught it.
Kuroko drank some of the water and used some of it to pour onto his hair. He sighed at the cold before using his towel to wipe it up. Basketball was fun and all, but now he had to continue his search for Akashi. He hasn't even said hi to him yet or anything. "Thanks for the game guys, but I really got to get going." He told the other three.
"Already? Why don't you hang out with us a bit more?" Aomine curiously asked while Kagami, after hearing that Kuroko would leave, was sneaking out of the gym. He did hand signs, pleading for Kuroko not to tell on him (like he always does).
"Nah. You can continue playing with Kagami-kun and Takao-kun." Kuroko said with a shrug. "I got to find Akashi."
Aomine pouted while Takao noticed Kagami's figure disappearing in the distance. "No helping it then. See you around Tetsu."
"See ya." Kuroko put the towel and bottle down and waved goodbye before he left. Now to find Akashi and find out where he is. He was bored now that he wasn't doing anything and he wondered if Akashi would find something fun they could do. It was a cruise after all.
Author notes
-Notes are in the 'Omake 2'-
This story is updated weekly.