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.
When he had left the gym (sports part of the ship) he could swear he heard Aomine calling out to Kagami. The other probably noticed he made a run for it. Somehow it was amusing to watch but yet tiring as well. Hopefully they'll sort out their relationship soon.
Kuroko made his way to the upper deck where the restaurants and coffee shops were. The bluenette sighed, leaning on the railing while looking around.
He wondered where Akashi would have even gone. Maybe he went to a shop? A restaurant? Library? The possibilities are endless on a huge cruise like this. How was he ever going to find Akashi?
Just as he thought that, he turned his head and saw something familiar in the distance. He almost deadpanned when he realized it was definitely Akashi. His hair was so obvious; he was easy to find in crowds even if he was short. Okay so he found Akashi, what now? Approach? He considered approaching the other until he realized Akashi was also with Midorima. What were the two doing together? Catching up? Then he shouldn't interrupt... but he was bored…
Kuroko watched them from a distance, trying to lip read what they were talking about but with no luck. He tried to think of topics or things they could talk about but he really had no idea. Since Akashi and Midorima are friends since middle school, there are a lot of things to talk about.
Kuroko watched closely, using his talent of people reading. Noting Akashi smile many times.
He felt unpleasant when he saw Akashi smile so much. What was so interesting if it made Akashi smile this much? He didn't even smile this much when Kuroko was around. He considered going back to their room to sulk and wait for Akashi, but then a thought hit him as the duo started walking. He should follow them! Kuroko was bored and curious anyway plus he was a master at not gaining any attention.
Kuroko followed as Akashi and Midorima walked up to a huge fountain. The two stood there, probably parting before parting ways. Kuroko continued following Akashi who was heading to... a suits shop?
Why on earth would Akashi be buying a suit? There was no reason... Kuroko suddenly became irritated. He was probably buying a suit so he could go on a date! And who would he go with? Definitely not Kuroko! So who did that leave?
Kuroko moved so he could see into the shop without actually going inside. He couldn't believe Akashi was buying a suit just for his date with Momoi! He's gone for one day and Akashi assumes he can go on a date!
After what seemed like an eternity, Akashi left the shop. Akashi was probably inside for about 20 minutes but to Kuroko it felt like 2 hours. Was the suit really for a date? Well, there's only one way to find out, follow him!
Kuroko trailed after his target that walked up and outside. Kuroko watched as Akashi leaned on the railing, watching the sea as if waiting for someone. Then after a while Kuroko had found whom he was waiting for and he didn't like it. He didn't like it at all.
Kuroko had to hold back a growl as he watched Momoi approach Akashi with narrowed eyes. He knew it! It had to he a date! But then again if it was a date, why didn't Akashi buy the suit? Just like before, Kuroko stealthily made his way closer to the two in hopes of hearing their conversation. He still couldn't hear, but he had a better view.
They were smiling and talking like they were enjoying a good talk. At one point the two seemed worried before Akashi pulled out his phone. What did he need his phone for? He watched Akashi dial something in then put the phone onto his ear. Not even a second later, Kuroko's phone in his pocket started going off.
When Akashi had called his fiancé, Momoi could swear she heard a phone ringing nearby. "Do you hear that Akashi-kun?" She asked Akashi who listened in but just when he tried to, Kuroko had answered the phone. "Kuroko?"
The other couldn't answer for a few moments. He was literally face palming at the moment. All this time he could have CALLED Akashi? He forgot all about his phone! "Yes?"
Akashi was confused for a few seconds but then replied, "I heard from Momoi that you had a meeting with her but it was cancelled due to Kise's seasickness. Where are you now?"
"Oh, no where particular. Just by a random shop.." Kuroko tried not to lie as he looked around. "I played basketball with Kagami-kun and some of the other's earlier. It was fun. I wish you were there." He said to change the subject.
"Next time I could join you as well." He didn't play for a long time and basketball always did bring out old memories. Akashi smiled and so did Momoi before he replied, "Do you have any plans or should we meet in our room?"
"Let's meet in the room." Kuroko decided. "I've been wondering where you were. Where are you?" He asked just to avoid suspicion.
"I'm with Momoi on the top deck outside. We met for a drink." Akashi looked over at Momoi who smiled and leaned in, "Tetsu-kun! Is Ki-chan okay?" She asked with slight worry in her voice.
"Yeah he's fine." Kuroko answered simply. "Anyway, I guess I'll meet you at the room?" He asked Akashi.
"Alright, I'll see you later then." As soon as Akashi had said that, Kuroko hung up the phone, leaving Akashi even more confused. He looked over at Momoi and the two exchanged worried looks. "I hope Tetsu-kun is okay. I wonder what's troubling him."
Momoi fidgeted with her skirt in thought while Akashi looked up at the sky. As days pass by, the time is drawing ever closer.
Kuroko left the location in case Akashi accidentally spotted him. He started to make his way back to the room with a few unhappy thoughts. He couldn't believe he went out and met up with Momoi. He didn't even lie when he asked about it!
Kuroko walked down the corridors and finally into his room, or so he called it the 'walk of shame' for the one who is cheated on. He went inside the room and closed the doors. Since Akashi wasn't here yet, Kuroko decided to just rest on the bed. It was a stressful day, much more stressful than he thought. When he lay down on the bed, tiredness took over as he thought back on today's events.
He sighed as the memories went through his head. The cancelled plans, the basketball game, catching Akashi with Momoi... It was all giving him a headache. Kuroko groaned and turned over on the bed. He was tired but... he was scared to go to sleep. What if he had another nightmare? Maybe he could avoid it this time... He closed his eyes, drifting off the sleep again.
When Kuroko had closed his eyes and opened them again, haze was covering his sight. The bluenette had to blink a couple of times before realising that he was in a metal cage again, just like in the last dream he had.
Kuroko sat up tiredly but as he did, another figure approached the cage from the outside, "Hello."
Kuroko looked up at himself. It was almost like he was looking at a weird mirror. So the other Kuroko was still here? "Why am I in here..?"
The other smiled before kneeling down, "Because you're slowly realizing the truth, but only until you truly understand will you be let out."
"Understand what?" The question he was asked before? "But.. I don't want to be stuck in here.."
"You already know. It's easy, the answer is deep inside you. All you have to do is accept the truth and not lie to yourself." The black-eyed Kuroko placed his hands on the bars, looking at the bluenette amusingly.
"But I don't know the truth! If I did, I would tell you." Kuroko claimed. "Believe me, please."
"And that's another lie. Such transparent lies aren't even funny." Black-eyed Kuroko groaned, "You know everything, but you refuse to see it. I am you and you are me. We are one being. So with that in mind, how do you explain that you don't know the answer while I do? It's because you refuse to accept the truth."
"Then what's the truth? At least tell me." Kuroko practically begged, moving to grasp the bars.
When Kuroko moved to the bars, the other watched in disappointment. Dark eyed Kuroko sighed before standing up. "You disappoint me, my other self. I was expecting much more of you..." He started walking away but stopped midway.
"I'll give you one last chance. Remember the past and what has happened to us these past few days. Remember everything, the good and the bad."
Kuroko looked down, trying to think of what the truth could be. What could it be? "At least tell me what I should call you.. I can't just call you copy or something.."
"You're right." The other turned around to face Kuroko and put his hand on his chin in thought. After a while, he smirked and spoke up, "Why don't we follow Seijuro's example? Since his original self is 'Akashi' and the other 'Seijuro', then you can call me 'Tetsuya' and you'll be 'Kuroko'. This way we'll be just like him. Isn't that fitting?" Not only would they be like Akashi but also by being called 'Tetsuya' the dark eyed Kuroko would represent the real Kuroko since it's his own name rather than a surname.
"..Alright.. That's okay with me." Kuroko murmured as he nodded. He didn't want Tetsuya (It felt weird saying his own name) to he disappointed, so he promised to himself that he'd find the truth quick so he could get let out sooner. Tetsuya said he was close, right?
Tetsuya watched Kuroko before approaching and kneeling down next to the cage again. "It's time to wake up but before you go I'll give you a hint." He raised his hand to reach for Kuroko's cheek. He placed his hand on Kuroko's cheek and rubbed it with his thumb. "I am your only ally." He said with a smile and eyes that were full of care. However, that image slowly disappeared when the dream abruptly ended and Kuroko woke up.
When his eyes opened, he saw Akashi there. He was standing over Kuroko, his hand on his shoulder as if he just shook the other awake. Kuroko just closed his eyes and sighed. What did Tetsuya mean when he said he was his only ally? What about Seijuuro?
He opened his eyes again and looked up at Akashi. "Hey."
"Sorry for waking you up but I wanted to make sure you were okay. You were talking in your sleep again." Akashi sat down on the edge of the bed next to Kuroko.
"Sleep talking? What did I say?" Kuroko said, stretching his arms as he sat up.
"You were repeating 'What is the answer?'" Akashi didn't know what to think of it. "If there's anything troubling you please know that you can rely on me. I'll help however I can."
"No, it's alright. I don't even remember my dream." Kuroko lied. "It's probably nothing. Maybe a dream about a test in high school." He joked.
"Is that so?" Akashi and Kuroko's eyes met as they were captured in each other's gaze. As Akashi analyzed the teal blue eyes he could tell something was definitely troubling him. It was a bit frightening because it reminded him of himself long ago when... Akashi closed his eyes, breaking the contact. "You remind me of myself back in middle school. At the time I had many things on my mind and couldn't cope... that was the time Seijuro came to be." He opened his eyes again, "I won't force you to tell me so take your time."
Kuroko didn't reply at first and just looked away. "...Can you just lay with me? For a little while?"
The redhead nodded as Kuroko moved away to give Akashi some space to lay down. The redhead did as he was asked and laid down next to bluenette.
"Can we play one on one before we get to the end of the cruise?" Kuroko asked. "Maybe we can invite everyone else to play as well."
"I'd love to. I didn't play with everyone for so long. Also, I'd love to have a one on one with you." Akashi knows about Kuroko's misdirection but wants to experience it in a match to see how strong it really is.
"Okay." Kuroko smiled and moved closer, getting comfortable against Akashi. "Thank you, Akashi."
When Kuroko leaned closer, Akashi embraced the smaller male. He didn't know what he could do. As he told Kuroko, he can't force him to tell him what's wrong so that's why he can at least show him that he's there if Kuroko needs him. Even if he's not Seijuro, he can help and support the other.
"Hey Akashi?" Kuroko looked up at the other. "How do you feel about everyone? How do you feel about me or Seijuuro?"
That was a sudden question he didn't expect. The redhead closed his eyes in thought, laying down on the comfortable bed. "I'm blessed to have such wonderful friends. I have to admit that I see them more as a family rather than mere friends. We were all together for so long so we know each other very well. Even if we're apart, we always find ways to stay together. For example, Momoi. She went to study abroad but she came back and is now on this ship." No matter where they go, they will always be together.
"As for Seijuro... At the beginning when Seijuro came to be, I used him as an escape from my worries and struggles. I let him take over the helpless situation I was in, letting myself go to a sleep like state. However, not completely asleep. I watched from within but not everything. You could say my memories of those times are all jumbled up, just like a puzzle that is missing its pieces." He opened his eyes to look down at Kuroko.
"As for yourself, I think you're an enigma. There are times when I think I understand you but then you do something completely unexpected and break my image of you. But then again, that could be one of the many reasons why Seijuro loves you so much. You're hard to predict but at the same time you're not. I can't explain it but I think you're very interesting." Akashi smiled, "Even from my incomplete memories I can tell that you get along with Seijuro very well."
"I'm glad I'm so unpredictable then." Kuroko smiled. "I didn't think I still was, being that Seijuuro always knew what I was thinking or wanting. It feels nice to be unpredictable again~" He teased. "But you know, you're unpredictable too. I mean I didn't even know you existed until this cruise. I'd say you're the unpredictable one."
"It seems we both are then. I assume Seijuro thought I would never return so he decided not to tell you about me. Discarding my existence." Akashi tightened his hold on the bluenette, "You and Seijuro are a good match." If Seijuro can tell what Kuroko is thinking just by looking, it is transparent that their love is really strong. That strong to the point that Seijuro knows what the emotionless Kuroko is thinking. That in itself is proof enough.
Kuroko smiled and laid his head on Akashi. "He really is a nice person. You are too. I'm glad I have both of you."
"Thank you." Akashi let Kuroko lean against him as they both laid in the silent room. Then without a care in the world fell asleep, in each other's arms.
The next morning, Akashi was the first one to wake up. His eyes slowly adjusted to the morning light and when they did, he looked down to see that Kuroko was snuggled in his arms. If he moved then he would surely wake up the bluenette, so he decided to just stay laid down until the other woke up.
Kuroko groaned when he started to wake up. He rubbed his eyes before slowly opening them. He felt arms around him and looked up, seeing that they were Akashi's arms. He smiled and relaxed again. For some reason he never had any dreams or nightmares when he was with Akashi. "Morning."
"Good morning." Akashi greeted back, not moving and staying in the same position.
"Did you have a good sleep?" Kuroko asked.
"Yes." He stretched as much as he could. "Is there anything specific you would like to do today? If not then I have a suggestion."
"What's your suggestion?" Kuroko moved away a little so Akashi could stretch comfortably. He decided to stretch as well.
"Well, since we didn't go swimming on the cruise yet, how about we go to the swimming pool?" After all, swimming pools are one of the main attractions of cruises.
"Swimming huh?" That's right. They didn't swim in any of the pools yet. "I wouldn't mind going."
"It's settled then. I don't know if you saw it when you boarded the ship but there's a long slide at the pool. Would you like to try it? or are you afraid?" Akashi didn't really know if Kuroko would be scared or not but the ship is not only famous for its reputation of luxury but also the biggest slide on any cruise ship yet.
"...Is it dangerous?" Kuroko asked with hesitancy. He didn't want to get on it if there was even 1% of danger.
"No accidents occurred so far if you're worried about that. It's safe.' Akashi assured, but of course if Kuroko doesn't want to ride it then they don't have to.
"I'll try it." Kuroko pouted. He didn't want to seem scared.
"You can decide after you see it? If you're afraid of heights then it might be frightening." It is pretty high.
"I'm not that scared of heights." Kuroko said. For example if you asked him if he was scared of heights or drowning, he'd say drowning.
"Alright then, we'll try the slide." Akashi smiled, sparing a look at the clock. It is 12 a.m. in the morning. "We should have breakfast before we go. I could call in a room service and we could eat out on the balcony?"
"I'd like that. We haven't eaten out there yet." Kuroko sat up, yawning as he stretched once again.
"I'll call them then." Akashi sat up as well and reached out for the phone.
"Just get me something simple." Kuroko said, standing up. He mind as well get dressed now instead of later.
Akashi nodded, speaking to the staff over the phone. While he did, Kuroko dressed into his swimming trunks and t-shirt. Since Akashi was still talking, Kuroko decided to open the balcony doors and let in some fresh air into the room.
Finally Akashi hung up the phone and stood up. "They'll be here in 10 minutes."
"Alright. You should get dressed so after we eat, we'll be ready to go." Kuroko suggested.
"Good idea, but before that bathroom." Akashi stretched before walking to the said room. Leaving Kuroko alone in the room.
"Could've just changed in the bathroom." Kuroko sighed and sat on the edge of the bed. Luckily he still had a nice view out the balcony from the bed. He was really glad they had this room.
After a few minutes, Akashi emerged from the bathroom and started dressing. While he did that, a doorbell suddenly rang. "Could you get it Kuroko?"
"Mhm. Got it." Kuroko quickly went to the door, hoping it was the food. If it was Kagami or something... He just wanted a quiet day.
When Kuroko opened the doors, he was greeted with a sight of a smiling female employee. "Hello sir, we brought you your breakfast. May we come in?"
It wasn't Kagami and the others! Kuroko mentally thanked no one in particular as he opened the door. "Of course."
"Thank you." She smiled again before going in. When she entered, Akashi told her to put it on the balcony, which she did. After placing down the plates and everything else. The woman left, leaving Kuroko and Akashi to feast on the delicious breakfast.
The two went out onto the balcony and took their seats.
"It looks really good." Kuroko commented, almost excited to try the food. Everything on this cruise has been good so far, and not just the food.
Akashi took the first bite from his French toast, "It is good." He said before taking a sip of his orange juice.
Kuroko took his time with eating, wanting to savor the food. But he was also nervous about the slide. He wasn't afraid of heights; it was just an unconscious worry. "Will Akashi get on the slide too?"
"Yes. I wanted to try about it since its one of the main attractions." Who wouldn't want to try sliding one of the longest slides in the world?
"..Okay.. Do the others know we are going?" Kuroko asked. Maybe if someone went with him, he wouldn't be as nervous.
"No but we could invite them." More people equals more fun.
"Yeah, I'd like that." Kuroko smiled and finished his food.
"Alright. Do you want to call Kagami then? I can call the rest."
"Okay, got it." Kuroko got up and went back into his room to fetch his phone. He looked through his numbers and dialed Kagami.
Kuroko called but Kagami wasn't picking up. he was considering hanging up when the other finally picked up. "W-What!" The other lazily yet annoyingly said while yawning.
"That's a rude way to answer the phone." Kuroko said. Kagami must've slept in. "Anyway, I was wondering if you'd like to join me to the pool today?"
"Pool!? Heck yeah! When?" Kagami sounded excited, maybe too much as Kuroko heard him jump up and fall down the bed.
"Relax. Don't hurt yourself." Kuroko smiled. "You can get ready and go now if you'd like. I'll meet you there."
"Oh yeah! I'll meet you there!" Kagami didn't give Kuroko even the time to reply before he hung up the phone.
Kuroko looked at his phone before sighing. Kagami really should remember to say goodbye first before suddenly hanging up. He put his phone down and returned to Akashi on the balcony. "Kagami-kun is coming."
"And so is everyone else." When Kuroko came, Akashi had just hanged up the phone. "We should get going." And with that, the two wasted no time to leave their room. They left the plates and everything as it is because the room service will come later to clean everything up, now they can have some fun.
When the two walked up to the swimming pool, the sight that had greeted them sent shivers down Kuroko's spine. There were many children and other guests swimming and playing in the pool, staff serving drinks and the fact that there were about five different swimming pools. But that wasn't what had scared the bluenette. What had scared him was the slide that was hovering above everything else. The slide was long and huge! Some parts of it even went outside of the ship! What is it broke? What if that part broke when Kuroko would be on the slide? Would it fall into the sea?
While Kuoko was imagining different possible scenarios of him getting hurt on the slide, everyone else quickly emerged to greet them. "Tetsu-kun!"
"Yo Tetsu!"
"Haha you look under the weather rival~"
"Hello."
Momoi hugged Kuroko tightly while everyone else approached the two. Akashi smiled but then spared a look at Kuroko. "Are you alright Kuroko?"
Kuroko didn't even care that Momoi was hugging him. That slide was too intimidating. "N-No, I'm okay. Just looking at everything." He didn't want them to realize he was a little frightened. That was just embarrassing.
Everyone deadpanned and thought You're everything but okay!, but didn't say it out loud of course. Momoi laughed before tightening her hold on the other, "Tetsu-kun will definitely swim with me!" She hugged so tightly that her chest was squeezing against the bluenette, but while it didn't affect him at all, it did affect the others around them who stared with... a nosebleed.
"Sorry but Kuroko is coming with me~ We'll ride that monstrous slide right rival?" Takao took Kuroko's other arm, initiating a tag war with Kuroko as the rope and the prize.
"No way! Tetsu-kun is with me!" Momoi pulled.
"No! With me!" and Takao pulled.
"Che~ Boring! Sorry to break it to you but Tetsu is joining me to play water basketball. How about it Tetsu?" Aomine joined the tag war and tried to snatch Kuroko away from Momoi.
The three glared at each other, small thunder like effects around their eyes.
"Um.." Kuroko really didn't want to go on the slide and he really didn't want to go with Momoi. Would it look bad if he chose a side? He looked at Akashi for help, giving him pleading eyes.
Akashi got the hint, smiling, "Sorry but Tetsuya said he was looking forward to suntanning." He wouldn't be sun tanning but at least that excuse would do to make everyone stop fighting.
Everyone looked at Akashi in disappointment before letting Kuroko go. "And here I thought I would get to swim with Tetsu-kun..."
"Man you guys are no fun." Aomine scratched his back before remembering... "Did you invite Kagami?" He asked Kuroko, reminding Momoi of Kise.
"Ah! Now that you mention it Ki-chan is not here either! I wonder if he is still sea sick."
"Kagami-kun is coming, yeah." Kuroko said then remembered about Kise as well. The other must really be unwell. He must have a seasickness worse than Seijuuro's! "I wish he could come.. should we go check on him?"
"It must be really bad... let's go to his room." Momoi suggested but then Midorima interrupted, "No need to worry. I checked up on him and gave him some medications. He should be better in a few days."
"Hopefully he gets better. He's missing the fun." Kuroko said but he wasn't too worried. Not that he showed anyone that. To anyone else, he looked as concerned as they were. "Anyway, let's get going Akashi."
Before Kuroko could leave, Aomine grabbed him by the shirt and stopped him. "You said Kagami was coming. Do you know when?"
"Soon. Relax, he doesn't even know you're coming." Kuroko reassured. "Just make sure he doesn't see you until you already caught him."
"Hehe~ Got it. Thanks!" And with that, Aomine walked away, content.
Kuroko walked up to Akashi, taking his hand. "Come on, let's go before they try to pull one of us away again." He whispered.
Akashi smiled and complied, going with Kuroko to get two seats from them. When they found two Cabana Beds, they put their towels on them before laying down in the shade. Now they could relax while watching the others fool around.
"When do you want to get on that slide?" Kuroko asked as he relaxed and closed his eyes. He felt a little less anxious now that he was calming down.
"Whenever you want." Akashi relaxed as well but noticed something missing. "I'll go get us some drinks. Do you want a vanilla shake?"
"They have that out here?" Kuroko asked with amazement. "Sure. I'd love a milkshake right now."
Akashi stood up from the bed and went over to the drinks counter at the other side of the pool. While he did, Kuroko hid in the shade. Unlike the others Kuroko wasn't really a fan of getting tanned. That and he doesn't want to get sunburn. His pale skin is very sensitive to the sunlight so he decided to lay low.
He lied down and closed his eyes. Relaxing while listening to the waves. However, he was startled when suddenly someone started moving his bed, trying to wake him up. Kuroko quickly sat up and looked up only to see Hanamiya hovering over him.
"Yo~ Relaxing by the pool?" he smirked before deciding to take the empty seat next to Kuroko, Akashi's spot. He lay down lazily, relaxing. "So? Any progress?"
Kuroko was hesitant about being seen with Hanimaya. What if one of his friends noticed and asked about him? It might ruin some of his plans. Plus the other was in Akashi's spot which he didn't like at all.
"The guy I was going to have her meet is sick so I didn't get them to meet yet. I'm working on it though." He grumbled, still annoyed by the failed plan.
"Ehhh~ You do realize its Tuesday? Time is running out." Hanamiya put his arms behind his head, "And you seemed so confident when we met before~ Could it be that you're wavering?"
"I'm not wavering. I'm just trying to have a good time as well. I'm on a cruise after all." Kuroko huffed.
"Can't you have a 'good time' after you do your job? You promised me one week and I won't wait any longer than that. I don't care how you do it, just do it." The other sat up, looking at Kuroko with cold eyes. "You know you were the one who decided to help me."
"Yeah and that means I get to do it at my own pace. So be patient or I'm not going to help at all." Kuroko glared at the other, returning those cold eyes.
"Haha! Really you won't?" Hanamiya's smirk widened, his eyes bright with excitement. "You know you can't hide the truth from me. I saw you with that redhead over there." Hanamiya pointed to Akashi who was talking to Midorima at the counter. "The very same redhead that was with Satsuki that very night we made the deal." He leaned closer to Kuroko, "Do you really think I'm that stupid? I had my doubts about you... I mean who would do a favor for free? Haha! Nobody! And that's why I followed you around secretly and saw you hanging out with him. So you two are dating huh~"
Hanamiya spared one more look at Akashi before at Kuroko, "Now that I know your dirty little secret, you wouldn't want me to tell them about our agreement right?"
"Don't you dare." Kuroko growled out, his hands clenching as he spared a glance at Akashi. He couldn't have Akashi or anyone else know. It would ruin his plan and his image to Seijuuro.
"Look, I'll do it alright? But I can't do anything until the guy I have for her is all better. He'll be fine in a few days. Just be patient alright?" He couldn't believe he had been followed without realizing.
"Alright~ Alright~ I was just worried because you made no progress~" Hanamiya teasingly said before laying back down comfortably. "Who would have thought Satsuki would go for your date~ I would be careful if I were you~ You have no idea how wicked she is~ Although it looks like she's already stolen him from you~"
"Say another word and I'll make sure to wipe that smirk off your face." Kuroko threatened, glaring at Hanimaya again. "No one is stealing him away from me. That's a fact."
"Are you sure? I mean it seems to me they already had a date. Didn't you see it too? When you were following them." When Kuroko was secretly following Akashi around, he didn't know that he himself was being followed as well. What irony…
"Stop following me okay? You'll get your girl back soon. I still have more plans." Kuroko grumbled. "And seriously, don't follow me. Someone might suspect something."
"I have no reason to anymore. I wanted to know why you would help me so I followed you and found out. It's as easy as that." Hanamiya smiled, putting on his sunglasses, "Also I suggest you don't order me around or you can kiss your redhead goodbye. Your relationship that is~"
"Alright, alright! Just go already before he comes back and asks why you're in his spot." Kuroko said, trying to keep the irritation out of his voice.
"I told you not to order me around. I'll go whenever I want, but I guess I'll give you some slack today." Hanamiya stood up from the bed and stretched, "You have 5 more days. Good luck." And with that last taunt, Hanamiya left, waving while leaving. Now that he had Kuroko around his finger he is sure to have some fun.
Kuroko grumbled and laid down. Now he was frustrated even though they came out to have a good time. How was he supposed to relax when he only had five days to find a way to get rid of Momoi? "What am I going to do?" He asked himself, covering his face with his hands.
Kuroko kept his eyes closed, he could only see darkness but could hear everything around him. The splashes of the water, the waves, children screaming and people talking. What was he going to do in such a short time? He can't force Kise out of bed that's for sure.
Kuroko was thinking of possible things he could do to speed up the process but his thoughts were interrupted by the sound of glass being put on the table. "Sorry it took so long." Akashi had placed the two glassed on the small table before laying back down on the bed.
Kuroko opened his eyes and sat up again. "Thanks, Akashi." He sighed as he took a sip. He wasn't even that happy for milkshake anymore. "Its alright. Don't worry about it."
Now with the drinks, the two could relax and enjoy the pool. While Kuroko was worrying over what to do, Akashi laid down with his sunglasses, watching the others in the pool. Kuroko closed his eyes again, trying to calm himself, otherwise Akashi and the others would notice. However, just when he did that, a splash of water hit him.
"Oi! Why don't you come for a swim?" Kagami who was in the pool asked with a grin.
"...You didn't have to splash me." Kuroko sighed and set his drink up. He mind as well have some fun and calm his mind. "Okay." He looked back at Akashi. "Join us?"
"Why not?" Akashi smiled, placing his drink down and stood up, walking up to Kuroko who was standing on the edge of the pool. When Kuroko looked away, Akashi pushed the bluenette who then fell into the pool. Kagami laughed historically when the bluenette emerged. "Haha! Nice! Is it too cold for you?"
Akashi then jumped after him, diving in and out. "Having fun?"
Kuroko pouted, shivering as he hugged himself in the water. Despite being exposed to the sun, the water was still pretty cold. "That's mean Akashi.. I could have gotten hurt." He pouted more.
Kagami splashed some more water on him "Come on worrywart! Can't you have some fun once in a while?"
"I'm sorry Kuroko but I agree. Forget about your worries and let's enjoy the day." Akashi said and Kagami extended his hand for a fist bump, which Akashi did.
"Hey, that's our thing!" Kuroko pouted towards Kagami. He did smile a little and splash at both of them. "Fine then~ Be that way Kagami-kun~ I'll make sure I get my revenge~"
"Ehhh!? I'm the one who should be getting revenge! Traitor! You deserve what's coming to you!" Kagami smiled widely before splashing at Kuroko as much as he could. Then when it stopped, it took Kuroko a while to wipe the water away from his eyes. However, Kagami used that time to his advantage to dive under Kuroko so that the bluenette was on his shoulders when he emerged from the water.
Kuroko suddenly found himself on Kagami's shoulder before being thrown into the water again. When Kuroko was under the water, strong arms grabbed him and helped him up to the surface. When he emerged from the water, Kuroko took a minute to take a couple of deep breaths before opening his eyes, revealing his savior to be Aomine.
"Need a hand Tetsu?"
Kuroko smiled again. With Aomine by his side, Kagami wouldn't dare to throw him in the water again. "Yeah~ Help me get Kagami-kun and Akashi-kun please?"
"Sounds good. Let's beat their asses!" Aomine helped Kuroko up on his legs while Kagami shivered. "It'll be you who'll lose. Prepare yourselves It's the blue team vs. the red team!" Kagami blathered, earning laughter from Aomine.
"Haha! Blue vs Red! Are you a kid?"
"S-Shut up!" Kagami splashed on Aomine who then returned fire. The two idiots splashed with such force that Kuroko and Akashi couldn't help but be caught in the line of fire. The two joined the battle of whits, bringing everyone's attention to themselves.
Soon others joined as well and it had turned into chaos, looking like a real splash war. Midorima and Momoi had joined Kuroko's team while Takao and Murasakibara went to the 'red team' as named by Kagami.
They may look childish but none of the cared. Who cares if a bunch of high school graduates just wanted to have fun? The group certainly didn't care. All that mattered was how much fun they're having.
Kuroko was having fun too. All his worries washed away with the water he threw at others and ducked from. Whenever everyone just messed around like this, it was always such fun... It made Kuroko happy.
"Shin-chan you're mine!" Takao who had sneaked behind Midorima splashed on him, startling the green head to the point that he fell into the pool. When he did, Takao jumped on him, "That's one man down! Let's get the others." So now that Midorima was taken down, the 'blue team' was down a member.
They fought back with full force but it wasn't long before Momoi also dropped, leaving Aomine and Kuroko as the only survivors (not literally). The two were left with no other choice but to run for their lives.
Aomine and Kuroko ran from the enthusiastic Kagami who was set on catching them, along with the rest of the team.
"Shit! This way Tetsu!" Aomine took Kuroko's hand and ran out to the stairs (that were in the swimming pool). Kuroko went along, not having any other escape route. They ran and ran but soon enough Kuroko had realised where the stairs were leading to.
Aomine and Kuroko reached the end of the stairs where there were two tubes, two entrances to the slide! Kuroko was about to run back down out of fear but unluckily Kagami caught up to the two and blocked the exit. "Got you."
"U-uh.." Kuroko nervously looked back at the slide. He didn't want to go down but he didn't want to get caught either. "Aomine-kun..?" He looked up at the other, hoping he had a plan.
"Che!" And by the looks of it, Aomine had no plans either. The two were left at the mercy of Kagami who approached them with a grin. Kuroko took a step back and when he did, he noticed Aomine position himself in front of him. "Looks like you're the last man standing Tetsu." Aomine joked before launching himself at Kagami.
"Oi! What're you doing?"
"You're going down with me." Aomine pulled Kagami over and pulled him with him into the slide.
With the two gone and exit cleared, Kuroko was free to take the steps down. However, when he turned around he noticed Akashi who stood at the entrance.
"Akashi, truce?" Kuroko asked nervously. "Come on, let's just truce and walk down together." He suggested with a smile. Anything to avoid going down the slide.
"Truce? Admitting defeat already?" Akashi teased and soon enough his teammates arrived and stood behind him, smiling at the poor bluenete who was left alone. Now Kuroko had no way to escape. He didn't want to go down the slide but right now, it looks like the only option.
When the group neared the bluenette, Akashi noticed the other hesitating and slightly shivering. Is he scared? Akashi realized but didn't have enough time as the group was nearing their target. Akashi did the only thing he could; He ran up to Kuroko and jump with him down the slide. At least this way Kuroko wouldn't be alone.
Kuroko clung onto Akashi, closing his eyes tightly. He didn't want to see the dark tunnel filled with only water or the outside of the ship. He didn't scream of course but he did completely cling onto Akashi as if his life depended on it.
Akashi did the same and held onto Kuroko tightly. However, he didn't close his eyes and watched what was in front of them. At the beginning the slide was dark but then suddenly the scenery changed when they rode through the transparent tube. Akashi was taken aback by the view, seeing the whole cruise from a bird's eye perspective along with the sea outside. "Open your eyes." Akashi raised his voice so that Kuroko could hear him. It would be a waste if he didn't see the beautiful view.
Kuroko wondered why Akashi would want him to but he did it anyway. He opened his eyes and he too was taken aback from the sight. No wonder why people loved it. It was beautiful. "It looks so.." Kuroko couldn't find a word to fit.
Akashi smiled, noticing that Kuroko wasn't holding so tight anymore. However, even though they had a beautiful view in front of them, they shouldn't forget that they're on a slide, and going very fast!
The continuation of the slide was transparent so during the whole duration they could see outside. It gave you a feeling as if you were flying in the skies. Then suddenly came a steep part where it felt as if they were falling into the ocean before the slide changed course and they were back on the ship again.
However, when the end was near, everything around the darkened before they were sprayed from all sides and thrown into the pool and out of the slide.
For the last part, Kuroko ended up clinging to the other with all his might again. He only let go so both of them could swim to the surface. At first Kuroko didn't know how to react. Was he still shocked? Scared? Amazed? He looked at Akashi, wondering if the view they just saw was real.
When both of them reached the surface, Akashi smiled and laughed happily. It took Kuroko by surprise and shock. He made Akashi laugh? Finally! Sweet progress!
"Were you scared? Or did you like the ride?" Akashi smiled at the bluenette while ruffling his hair.
"I'm not sure.. Both?" Kuroko smiled. He was just happy to see Akashi laugh like this. This really was a good day after all.
"I'm glad." Akashi's smile widened before he turned to look around. Kagami and Aomine entered the slide before them but they were nowhere to be seen. They couldn't have gotten stuck, that wouldn't be possible. "Did you see Kagami and Aomine?"
Kuroko looked around and couldn't find the two at all. Where could they be? "Maybe they went to another pool?"
"If they would we would see them." Akashi put his hand on his chin, but just when Kuroko and Akashi were talking about Aomine and Kagami, they heard loud screams from the other side of the ship. And it was just as you would have thought... yes, Kagami was running away and Aomine was chasing him.
Both Kuroko and Akashi sighed, but as they did, huge splashes hit them as people were coming down the slide. The others, 'red team' came from the slide after them.
Kuroko moved back as he wiped water from his face. He chuckled a little when he saw everyone come down a few at a time, almost hitting each other as they landed. "Be more careful next time you guys."
"Tetsu-kun!" Momoi who was the first to emerge from the slide launched herself onto the bluenette. "Oh yeah? Says a member of the opposing team!" Takao teased, moving so that he was leaning against Kuroko. "Of course the losing team has to treat the winners~"
"Treat~? I 100% agree~" Murasakibara who came in last and made the biggest splash said. Now excited to get some delicious food after his team's win.
"W-Wait, I'm not paying for everyone myself!" Where is his cowardly team? "Please don't ask for a lot.."
"Eh! But we won! And its not like you'll pay alone right? Where is your team?" Takao asked while looking around. Aomine was too busy chasing Kagami and Midorima was nowhere to be seen. Kuroko sighed. It looks like he's paying after all. He was about to walk away to get his wallet but a hand tugged his arm.
"Don't worry Tetsu-kun, I'll pay too. After all we're teammates." Momoi blinked and then Kuroko had remembered that she was on his team! He completely forgot!
"Oh.. Are you sure? I don't want you to spend too much money." Kuroko said hesitantly, tilting his head. Momoi would offer to help pay? Even if they were teammates in the first place, that's a surprise…
"Of course! If it's for Tetsu-kun then I'll do it." She smiled as Akashi spoke up.
"I'll pay as well." He offered even though he was on the winning team.
"No, you guys don't have to. Really." Kuroko shook his head "I don't want to waste your money.."
"But I'm on your team." Momoi pouted, not backing down. She lost and she was gonna pay up.
"Even if you and Momoi pay it wouldn't be enough for Murasakibara. If the three of us join then our wallets won't be as empty." Who knows how much will the giant cost them... it definitely won't be cheap.
"..Fine." Kuroko didn't want to be broke once they made it to Hawaii. He wanted some souvenirs at least!
"Yay!" Momoi jumped up and Akashi smiled. Now with that out of the way, they were ready to eat. The group walked up to the food stand and ordered whatever they want. Of course, as they feared, Murasakibara ordered a mountain of food. Our wallets...
They sat down at a table in a group, conversing with one another while eating. "Thanks Kuroko! Ah! How was the slide?" Takao curiously asked since the other seemed very scared of it.
"Well.. It was scary at first but the view was amazing." Kuroko smiled. "But I'm definitely not riding it again. One time is enough for me."
"Haha but I would sure go on it again! How about you Akashi?" Takao tilted his head to look at the redhead who was eating a salad.
"I would definitely try it again." The view as Kuroko said was amazing, plus it was fun.
"Ah me too! Maybe we can go together?" Momoi proposed and Akashi nodded.
Kuroko looked down at his food, frowning slightly. He didn't want them to go on the slide alone. "On second thought, it was going so fast, I probably didn't get everything that you could see. I want to go again, but I don't want to go alone." He looked at Akashi, hoping he'd get the message.
"Then we'll go together." Akashi smiled at the bluenette when Momoi spoke up. "The three of us can ride it together." She suggested, earning another nod from the redhead.
"Hmm.. I guess that's fine." Kuroko nodded. So long as he's there, they won't try anything.
"We can go after lunch then." Akashi suggested and they both agreed. But while Kuroko and the rest were eating and chatting amongst themselves, Kagami suddenly appeared and ran under Kuroko's table, startling everyone.
"Pssss! Don't tell on me traitor!" he whispered before hiding under the table. Kuroko sighed, looking around to spot Aomine surveying the pool area.
Kuroko was tempted to pull Kagami out from under the table and just throw him towards Aomine. He didn't have the strength to do it, but he still wished it could happen. "Kagami-kun, I'm getting tired of hiding you whenever Aomine is around. Just talk about it with him! If you don't, then you're not fit to be my children's uncle. I don't want them to have a cowardly uncle."
"W-What!?" Kagami raised his voice, alarming Aomine to where he is. "You can't do that! I'll be a great uncle and you know that!" Kagami stood up and out from beneath the table into the sunlight for everyone to see.
"Then prove it." Kuroko said, crossing his arms. "Go talk to Aomine-kun right now."
"T-Talk..." Kagami fidgeted while the chaser was closing the distance between himself and his pray. Kagami stood in place, looking for the courage to talk to Aomine but not being able to find it. "O-Okay... I'll-" Kagami didn't get to finish his sentence when a hand grabbed his jaw and turned it around, captivating the redhead into a sudden kiss.
Kagami immediately turned tomato red but when it hit him that Aomine was kissing him, he immediately pushed the other away, panting slightly.
"What are you doing!?" he yelled at the tanned male.
"Kissing you."
"I know that!" Kagami's face was still bright red. How could Aomine do that!? What's more in front of everyone! Kagami was confused but then he remembered and turned towards Kuroko.
"There! Is that enough?" The embarrassed Kagami asked with a huge blush.
"No. You two need to talk. And I mean talk, not kiss," He looked at Aomine. "Or run." He glared at Kagami next. "You two need to sit down and talk about whatever you need to talk about. No more running and hiding."
"That's exactly what I-" Aomine was about to say before Kagami took off again. It was too much! He couldn't handle it! Not now in front of everybody! The redhead started with slow steps before taking off at full speed, his face maintaining its red color.
Aomine sighed, well its not like they'll solve this just like that. "Sorry Tetsu. I'll see you later." Aomine said before running after Kagami. When he did, Akashi spoke up. "Give them time. A matter like this cannot be solved that easily."
Momoi nodded, "Love is a delicate thing."
Kuroko didn't say anything and just looked at his lap. Of course he knew love was delicate and complicated. No one knew what he was going through since the beginning of the cruise. No, even before that. As soon as Nijimura asked that one question years ago, it caused him nothing but trouble.
He suddenly stood up, having to place his hands on the table to keep himself balanced. He felt dizzy and he couldn't tell if it was because of all the thinking he was doing or from standing too fast. "I'm sorry but.. I think I'm going to go back to my room.."
Akashi raised his eyebrow, "Are you alright? Should I go with you?"
"I don't want to ruin your fun.." Kuroko didn't look at Akashi. He didn't want to see if the other was disappointed or happy that he didn't have to go.
"We can't have fun if Tetsu-kun is not feeling well." Momoi watched the bluenette in concern. Did the food made him feel unwell?
"No!" Kuroko looked up, his eyes narrowed on Momoi. Then he looked away, frowning. He didn't mean to glare. Would that give anything away? Was he just being paranoid? "I just want to be left alone." He muttered, quickly walking away from the table.
Everyone at the table watched as Kuroko walked away, both shocked and surprised by Kuroko's sudden outburst. None of them knew what to say... They didn't even know what had agitated Kuroko to this extend.
Akashi was taken aback, as confused as he had ever been. He knew that Kuroko was unpredictable but this exceeded his every expectation. As his eyes watched Kuroko's retreating figure, he stood up from his chair but then suddenly a hand touched his own.
"If Tetsu-kun wants to be alone then we should leave him be." Momoi tilted her head downwards. She didn't know why but she felt guilty for an unknown reason.
"But I have to-"
Momoi shook her head, closing her eyes as Akashi clenched his fists. He looked up to see Kuroko finally disappear from his sight and into the cruise. "Kuroko..."
Author notes
MANY THANKS TO silver woman, Kuroko-SenPaille, Rinfantasy, Kuro13Dead, ShinseiShinwa, simsimchocolatte, Kuro13Dead, yukino76, Nameless, Anon and BerryBliss FOR REVIEWING!
KurokoTetsuya101: I'm a bit tired so I'll try to make my note short. Thank you for your wonderful reviews everyone, especially BerryBliss who wrote such a big review! Thank you so much! I was really intrigued to read it XD On another note, now that I think about it, this is the last chapter of 2015 XD Merry Christmas (to those who celebrate it) and a HAPPY NEW YEAR! I wish you all the best of luck in 2016 :D And with that, we'll be seeing you next year :) Until next week :D
The Lucky Bell: Christmas finally passed :c oh well~ it was fun while it lasted~ I wonder what everyone got c: Happy New year's to everyone since we won't be able to say it on the exact date! X3 uh, please enjoy the chapter c: Some fun happy times this chapter~
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