Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

Domo. My name is Kuroko Tetsuya. Recently, I’ve been noticed by a certain light orange haired girl. Not that I’m hating on her, it’s just peculiar being noticed by someone. All of my life, I’ve often been ignored so for her to suddenly notice me is something I never expected. So I, Kuroko Tetsuya, is legitimately wondering how can this girl notice me so easily. 

“Kuroko-san!!” The light orange girl screamed, startling the poor phantom for he isn’t used to being called like that. 

Kuroko sighed, sweating a bit. “Isshiki-san, don’t say my name out loud,” He begged, placing his index finger to his mouth, shushing her. 

Isshiki tilted her head then laughed, “You’re really weird.” 

Kuroko flinched in dismay, causing Isshiki to flinch too. “EH? WAIT! Kuroko! I didn’t mean that in a bad way!!” She yelled, shaking Kuroko. “HOW ‘BOUT THIS! You can play basketball at the gym right now!” She said quickly, trying to pull the lifeless boy to the court.

Kuroko’s pale body brightened at the word basketball. Although it hasn’t been long since Isshiki met Kuroko, this is the happiest expression he made. She couldn’t have sworn she saw flowers blooming around Kuroko’s aura. Isshiki couldn’t help but smile at the adorable scene while tilting her head a bit as she crossed her arms. 

“Are you going home?” Kuroko asked suddenly.

Isshiki nodded. “Yep, I’m going to double check my crops. I also need to start making my soba noodles too.” 

Kuroko blinked thrice. “Are you perhaps trying to replicate the soba noodles we had in the cafeteria the other day?” 

Her eyes squinted a bit as she smiled, “Precisely!!”

The teal haired phantom can’t help but look at her with uncertainty. However, Kuroko has no right to call her off since he doesn’t have the cooking knowledge and skills like Isshiki—like for vanilla’s sake, he can barely boil an egg right now. He even tasted her cooking once, and it tasted like heaven. He really didn’t want to compare his mother’s and Isshiki’s cooking, but he would definitely go for Isshiki’s cooking once more.

“Are you sure you can do it though? The soba was indeed delicious, but how can you be so sure you can replicate it?” Kuroko asked, hoping he doesn’t sound too mean. 

Isshiki’s eyes went wide then laughed aloud. “Why so serious, Kuroko-san? If I make a mistake then, I will continue to make it again till I get it!” 

You see, this is what Kuroko will never get. He doesn’t understand how Isshiki is oddly playful, especially in situations like this. He’s been observing her for months here in Teiko (not that he’s a stalker or anything), and he has concluded that Isshiki is playful and spontaneous—meaning she wings everything. 

Despite that, he noticed that Isshiki is surprisingly taciturn—meaning reserved when talking. As contradicting as it sounds, but she talks so little when she’s around people she doesn’t know. What shocks Kuroko more is that, Isshiki’s so polite when talking with people she doesn’t know. Not that it's a bad thing, Kuroko just expected Isshiki to be her playful and loud self. 

Kuroko sighed once again. “Alright, goodluck then, Isshiki-san.” 

Isshiki smiled, patting Kuroko’s head. The orange haired is slightly taller than her phantom friend. “Sankyu, Kuroko-san. I’m off!! Goodluck getting into the Second String or First String!!” 

Kuroko’s mouth created a small smile, waving at the orange haired. “Yeah, goodluck with your cooking.” 

•| ☽༓☾ |•

“I’m home!!” Isshiki yelled, removing her shoes on their doorstep.

Heavy footsteps can be heard from one side as one yelled, “Welcome home, Usagi!!” Isshiki Satoshi yelled playfully, hugging his daughter tightly while laughing. Usagi only reciprocated his actions, causing the two to circle around while laughing like children.

Isshiki Usagi. Daughter of Isshiki Satoshi and Kinokuni Nene (she’s now an Isshiki). The previous 2nd Seat and 9th seat of the famous Elite Ten Council of Tōtsuki Culinary Academy. Usagi is the complete replica of her father—carefree, playful, and spontaneous. She also got her father’s hair color. However, Usagi can be taciturn and blunt like her mother, except she is not as stern and mean as her mother. She also inherited her mother’s pink eyes.   

“Goodness gracious, you two are really alike,” Another voice came into the picture. 

The two stopped twirling around as Usagi faced her mother. “Hi, Mommy!!” She giggled as she ran towards her beloved mother. 

Isshiki Nene blushed a bit when her kawaii daughter wrapped her arms around her waist. Nene smiled a bit, bringing her hand up her daughter’s head as she gently caressed her hair. 

“Hehhhhhh,,,,you’re never even like that to me, my sweet belovedddd!!” Satoshi suddenly appeared, whining that his wife was never that affectionate towards him. 

This causes Nene to blush rapidly at her husband’s playfulness. “BAKA! Don’t do this in front of our daughter!” 

Satoshi pouted, “Oh come on now! The only time you can be affectionate towards me is in be— *SLAP!*” 

Satoshi and Nene’s “argument” continued on so Usagi slowly moved away from their PDA fight. Goodness, her parents—especially her dad can be very playful in love. She really wonders if she will find someone that can keep up with her playfulness, just like how her mom keeps up with his. 

Usagi shook her head at that thought, trying to focus on her main goals here: checking and making. She’s very much aware that it’s late, but she just wants to check her crops for a while before she makes the soba noodles from scratch. As a daughter of a Soba Master, she should finish making them in no time for bed at least. 

“USAGI! You better not stay up too late! You have school tomorrow!” Nene yelled from the kitchen. 

“BUNBUN!! Don’t stay outside too long! It’s getting dark, and it’s dangerous for a kawaii daughter like you to stay outside too!!” Satoshi said, watching his daughter check the crops in their backyard. 

“And make sure to eat dinner when you’re done!” Nene added.

“Yes, Mama and Papa!!” 

Chapter Text

A loud laughter can be heard on the rooftop of Teiko as the orange haired fell down to her knees while hugging her stomach. Kuroko just blankly looked at her, sweating a bit at her reaction. He has no idea what to do in a situation like this. All he did was tell his story that happened yesterday at the gym.

“So let me get this clear,” Isshiki snorted, wiping her tears. “There was a rumor of a ghost dribbling the ball in the other gym, and cause of that rumor, you scared a blue haired teammate of yours when he entered that gym?” 

“That about sums it up, yes,” Kuroko bluntly said.

Kuroko’s bluntness just made Isshiki laugh harder, causing him to be more confused as to why she’s laughing even more. He  simply doesn’t get Isshiki’s sense of humor at this point.

“Okay but Kuroko-san,” Isshiki managed to stop laughing. “I’m glad you were able to find a friend, you know?” 

Kuroko jolted. “A friend?” 

Isshiki was shocked at his response. Sure, he has a lack of presence, but that certainly does not mean he lacks friends, right? The orange haired nodded then said, “Well yeah! Didn’t you also say that he invited you to play ball with him till he was suddenly dragged? By a fishing net?” 

“Yep, it was a scene you never see everyday too,” Kuroko smiled a bit, remembering it. 

Isshiki ruffled Kuroko’s hair once more. “I’ll say it again, Kuroko-san. I’m glad you are finding friends. If you hang out with me too much, people might assume that we’re dating,” She lightly teased. 

“Not happening. You are not my type.” An arrow struck her chest after hearing that. 

“But,” Kuroko added. “I don’t mind if we hang too much. You’re a confusing yet good friend.” 

Isshiki was puzzled at the last sentence, but her mood got lifted up. She chuckled a bit then said, “Thanks, Phantom-kun.” 

“Please don’t call me that.” 

“Shut up. I will.” 

“Please don’t.” 

“Yes, I will.” 

“…..” 

“…..” 

“Please?” 

“Na-uh, Phantom-kun!” 

•| ☽༓☾ |•

Fast forwarding to weeks later, Isshiki and Kuroko’s friendship is blooming quickly as ever. However, Kuroko started to focus more on getting into the second string in basketball so he’s been practicing hard lately. Isshiki heard that he has been practicing with that blue haired guy everyday too. This made the orange haired smile since Kuroko finally found another friend after months of being together. 

“Isshiki-san, would you like to meet Aomine-kun?” Kuroko asked out of the blue. 

Isshiki choked on her burger. “Eh?” 

Kuroko paused himself from drinking his vanilla shake then looked up at her. “Would you like to meet—I HEARD YOU THE FIRST TIME!” She interrupted Kuroko immediately. 

The teal haired expressed his confusion. “I just thought that you also need friends too. I don’t see you hanging out with other people except me. Honestly, I didn’t think you would possess the introvert vibe especially since you are playful.” 

Isshiki drank her coke, leaning back on the chair as she looked up at the ceiling. “Do I really need a reason why I simply don’t want to be friends with people?” 

Kuroko flinched. “Wait Isshiki-san, I didn’t me—Oh, I’m not angry, Phantom-san!” 

Isshiki chuckled at his panic expression. She settled her coke down and leaned to get a fry. She leaned her free elbow down, using her palm to hold her chin. “Well if you want a reason then I guess it’s kinda hard finding the right one at such a prestigious school full of brats and dumbasses.” 

“I see. Does that mean you don’t want to meet Aomine-kun?” Kuroko asked, seeking confirmation first. 

Isshiki shook her head. “I would love to, but give me time to prepare since it’s going to be my first time meeting someone else aside from you. And I also need to mentally prepare since I am meeting….. a boy.” 

Kuroko paused for a bit. “But I am a boy too.” 

Isshiki blushed then screamed, “I KNOW THAT!” 

“Then why are you panicking? I’m sure you’ll get along with Aomine-kun, especially since you get along with me properly,” Kuroko said, taking a sip of his vanilla shake. 

“Yeah but! I’ve seen this Aomine guy from afar, and he looks intimidating compared to you!! The fact he is an athlete just adds to his intimidating aura!” Isshiki panicked, munching on her fry. 

Kuroko stopped sipping then looked at her. “But I’m an athlete too.” 

“Yeah, I know that too, but you are not scary to approach compared to the others, you know?” Isshiki smiled, pointing a fry at her teal haired friend. 

“…..” 

“…..” 

“You’re just saying that because I’m not tall as the other players, aren’t you?” Kuroko blankly asked. 

Isshiki flinched, looking away as she sweats a bit. “Whaaattttt?? Noooooo!! I n-never thought of thattttt!!” 

Kuroko sighed, putting his vanilla shake down then wiped his mouth with a piece of cloth. “I take everything back. You might be a bad friend.”

“OI! I’M NOT!” 

“But you might.” 

“BUT I’M NOT!” 

“…..”

“…..”

“You still might be though.” 

“I'M NOT! PROMISE!” 

Chapter Text

After weeks of depression and sadness that Kuroko had to go through, he finally got into the First String. Isshiki was definitely delighted and excited for Kuroko after hearing the news. She even heard that someone called Akashi helped him unleash his hidden talent. 

However, the thing is that Isshiki felt bad that she wasn’t there during the weeks when Kuroko was feeling down. She made a mental note to create the most delicious bento box for him as soon as she returned from Kyoto. 

“Heh? Really? This Akashi fellow is the vice-captain of basketball?” Isshiki said with a surprised tone as she got a table from the fruit basket. 

“Yep!!” Kuroko said in an exciting tone, shifting his phone a bit. 

Isshiki’s mood started to turn unfortunate as she sat down on the couch. “Kuroko-san…” She sadly called, bringing her knees to her chest. 

“Yes, Isshiki-san?” Kuroko responded back in a happy tone. 

“I’m really sorry that I wasn’t there with you when you needed me the most….” Isshiki apologizes wholeheartedly, causing Kuroko to sighed a bit. 

“Hey, I already told you. It’s okay… I’m okay. Besides, that pain was worth it since I was able to go to First String. Also, you can’t help it too. You needed to follow your parents’ orders to go to a seminar with them in Kyoto too. And honestly, I’m quite worried that you might not catch up with the lessons we are having, especially in Math.” Kuroko shivered, remembering how the lessons just added up to his stress during his depression weeks.

Isshiki chuckled, collapsing at the couch. “Don’t worry about me!! I’ve been listening to the lecture videos that our teachers have been sending me anyway. I think I can handle it!!” 

Kuroko laughed a bit. “I wish I was like you.” 

Isshiki paused her laughing. “What do you mean?” She asked, turning her body to lie down by her chest. 

“You’re so carefree. Honestly, you practically just wing everything, and you never fail any of the lessons!! Heck, remember you let me taste the soba you replicated? It tasted better than the cafeteria’s! I sometimes wonder if you take everything seriously, you will be unstoppable!! You might even beat Akashi-kun in studying too!!” He said enthusiastically. 

Isshiki just shook her head. “Nah, it’s not really my thing?? As long as I have decent grades then I’m alright, right? Besides, competing with someone as talented and smart like this Akashi guy is scary!! I would rather compete with him in cooking!!” 

Kuroko chuckled. “You really love cooking, do you?” 

Isshiki just smiled. “What can I say? It runs in the family!” 

•| ☽༓☾ |•

Two days have passed since that conversation. Isshiki was focused on the seminar; as the daughter of great chefs, it’s no surprise that she was chosen to participate here too, along with other children of great chefs. 

“OH! I KNOW YOU! You’re Uncle Satoshi’s and Aunt Nene’s daughter!!” A certain red haired boy with purple eyes came into the picture, startling Isshiki greatly. 

“That is correct. And you are Uncle Soma’s and Aunt Erina’s son, yes?” Isshiki asked politely. 

The red haired tilted his head, “Oh? I was kinda expecting you to be more carefree like Uncle? I guess you’re like Auntie then— *SMACK!* ” He was interrupted by a karate chop on his head. 

“Goodness, Sota, don’t disrespect your Auntie like that.” 

“OUCH!! MAMA!!” The red haired rubbed his head with a pout. 

“I’m really sorry, Usagi-kun. My son acts so much like my husband,” Erina said, rubbing the temples of her nose in stress. 

“It’s really okay, Auntie,” Usagi said, smiling a bit, reassuring her aunt that it’s alright. 

“Hehhhh?? But my son is right, she is an exact replica of Isshiki-senpai yet she’s so qui— *SMACK!* ” 

“Oh crying out loud!  SOMA! Don’t assume such thi—HEY!” Erina suddenly yelled in a panic when she saw Soma and Sota too close to Usagi, scaring the poor girl. 

“Ne! Ne! Papa!! Why is she so quiet? Uncle is so playful and loud so why isn’t she?” Sota asked his father, poking Usagi’s cheek. 

“I have no idea, Sota. Maybe she’s a defe— *SMACK!* ” Soma got hit on the head by a really heavy cookbook. He expresses his pain as he turns around to see a very angry Nene. 

“Yukihira. Get away from my daughter.” Nene’s eye twitched in anger as you can her hair literally turning into snakes of anger. 

“Hehehe, heyyyyyyy Nene-chan?” Soma gulped at her angry aura. 

“Sota! How dare you treat a girl like that!” Usagi got startled at the new voice, causing her to shake a bit in nervousness. She turned around to see a blond guy with blue eyes, looking like an Italian to be honest. 

“OHH!! TAKASHI!! It’s been a while, blondie!!” Sota yelled with a big smile. 

“YOU LITTLE!” Takashi flared in anger. 

Sota turned to Usagi once again, causing her to flinch a bit. “I’m Yukihira Sota!! This blondie here is Takashi Alidini!!” 

“DON’T INTRODUCE FOR ME!” Takashi yelled in the background. 

Usagi took a deep breath, straightening her body as she regained her confidence. “I’m Isshiki Usagi. Nice to finally meet the two of you.” She bowed down. 

“WAHHH!! You are so cu—Don’t say it out loud, BAKA! She’s gonna think you’re a creep!” Takashi yelled, scolding him violently. 

The two suddenly started to fight, but honestly it’s mostly one-sided since it’s mostly Takashi doing all the shouting. The orange haired girl slowly stepped away from their fighting scene as she suddenly bumped into a small child. “Oh my gosh! I am so sorry!!” She apologizes, helping the child up. 

“I-I’m fine!! W-What about you??” She asked. 

Usagi chuckled and was about to answer till she recognized her. She recognized that brown skinned and white hair with brown eyes and incredibly tiny height. “Oh? Are you Hayama Saki ?” 

Saki flinched a bit as she nodded shyly. 

The reason why Usagi remembered her so well is because her parents, Hayama Akira and Hayama Jun got really infamous back in the days. The couple’s age gap caused so much scandal in the cooking world which caused Akira to almost lose his stance as a worldwide chef, but thanks to the help of his friends from Tōtsuki, he still is a famous chef. But Tōtsuki suffered a great loss from that scandal which decreased their popularity a bit. It is still well known now, but not as well known as before, especially since Tōtsuki is competing with other culinary schools. 

“I-I should get going—” Usagi held her wrist, causing Saki to flinch a bit.

“I’m Isshiki Usagi, Hayama-kun. It’s nice to finally meet you!!” Usagi smiled. 

Saki’s mood deflated to a sad one. “Aren’t you scared that people might talk about this? I’m fine with it, but I’m worried for you.” 

Usagi’s eyes turned to the side to see that there are people gossiping about them right now. She slightly glared at them a bit, causing them to look away with sweat forming their foreheads. She then looked at the depressed Saki to only pat her head. 

“Nahhh, don’t really care,” Usagi said, causing Saki to lift up her head in an instant. 

“But!—But none!” Usagi held her mouth, not allowing her to speak such negative words at the moment. Saki can only toss her arms around, trying to open her mouth. 

“Besides, didn’t my parents defend yours back in those days? Right now, I should also defend you!! Guess you can say I’m following in my parents footsteps, you know?” Isshiki smiled, still holding her mouth, but Saki couldn’t care less about her mouth at the moment. Her eyes can only sparkle in hope and happiness when she hears those words. 

“T-Thank yo— Isshiki-san ,” Sota suddenly appeared in the background. This caused Saki to flinch violently when she saw that familiar face.

“Oh? Sota-kun? What’s up?” Isshiki asked, still holding her mouth. 

“Please remove your hands from Saki-chan's mouth!” Sota begged with a smile, causing Usagi to arch her brow in confusion. She was about to till Saki just held Usagi’s wrist to stay in place. 

“C’mon, Saki-chan!! You need your mouth to eat , you know?” Sota grinned, lifting up his chopsticks to reveal a disgusting kind of food. This caused Usagi to flinch violently at the scent of it. She actually started to hug Saki tighter instinctively because of that foul scent. 

“WHY AM I ALWAYS THE ONE TASTING IT!” Saki yelled, hugging Usagi tighter. 

“Heh? I always gave you free food the first time we met!! Now come on!! Open wide!!” Sota grinned, pushing the food into her mouth as Usagi stared at the two with wide eyes. Takashi can only facepalm in the background as he quietly scolded this dumbass. 

“How was it?” Sota asked with a smile. 

“BZKHAISHSIAHZIHS?!?!?” Was her reaction.

Chapter Text

It’s no surprise that Kuroko misses his friend, Isshiki Usagi. It’s been 4 days since their last conversation on the phone, but he didn’t want to bother her either since this must be an important seminar for her to skip school too. So he has been patiently waiting for her arrival too. Don’t get him wrong, he doesn’t like Isshiki-san in a romantic way. He’s just somewhat attached to her—think of it as a baby chick imprinting on its mommy the moment it opened its eyes. 

“HEY! TETSU! You’ve been staring at your phone for too long!! Don’t tell me you have a girlfriend!” Aomine pointed out, pointing his finger at him violently. 

“No. I don’t, Aomine-kun. I’m waiting for a friend to return back,” Kuroko replied, placing his phone down to wipe his sweat from his face. 

“A friend, huh?” Aomine questioned, taking big gulps on the water. “Who is this friend anyway? Does this friend go to Teiko too?” 

“Yup, she does. Her name is Isshiki-san,” Kuroko replied, getting a water bottle from the floor to drink up. 

“HAH? A ‘SHE’? THERE'S NO WAY!” Aomine choked on his water as he looked at his shadow partner with wide eyes. This caused Kuroko to look at him in confusion, not understanding his reaction. 

“Tetsu! A guy and girl can never be just friends, you know?” Aomine complained. 

“But we are just friends.” 

“THAT AINT POSSIBLE.” 

“But it is.” 

“NO ITS NOT!” 

“It is.” 

“You two .” The duo both flinched. “Finish that conversation soon since we are closing the gym in a while,” An authoritative tone appeared suddenly. The two turned their heads to see crimson red hair with sharp cat-like eyes staring at them. 

“A-Akashi,” Aomine stuttered. 

“Aomine. Kuroko. Get changed now. Murasakibara wants to go to the convenience store again,” Akashi’s whole aura changed into a soft one, causing the two to sigh in relief. The light-shadow duo didn’t waste any time to go to their locker rooms to change into their uniforms. 

The duo got scolded by Midorima for being so late. Murasakibara only kept complaining that they haven't left yet because Midorima scolded them for too long. Momoi tried to calm the green haired player down. Meanwhile, Akashi just chuckled at the scene till he saw a flash of orange hair dancing on the air with the moonlight shone down her incredibly pink eyes. 

Akashi’s eyes went wide to witness such a majestic scene under the moonlight. It seems that the rest also noticed the orange haired girl, and they were awed at the scene. 

“Isshiki-san? You’re back?” Everyone’s heads snapped to Kuroko for knowing this girl. 

“Yep! I’m back from Kyoto!!” Isshiki yelled, shivering a bit at the coldness. 

“But why are you here?” He asked, walking towards the orange haired. 

Isshiki shrugged her shoulders. “Why not?” 

The human skittles stared at the two with utter shock. They definitely weren’t expecting for someone to know Kuroko, especially since they know Kuroko’s lack of presence. They all had the same question popping in their mind: Who is this girl? Well, we can’t blame them too—Teiko is such a big school for them to memorize everyone and such. 

Akashi watched as this mysterious girl just ruffled Kuroko’s hair. His cat-like eyes examined how this girl can be a monster — maybe not in sports but in something else. Akashi can feel some kind of aura around her; he can’t just place his finger on it. The crimson haired player isn’t implying that he’s interested in the girl since he has met better women already, but he’s curious to know how this girl knows someone like Kuroko, a man that lacks presence. 

“HEH?! SO YOU'RE THAT GIRL, HUH?” Aomine yelled, wrapping his arm around Kuroko’s shoulders, causing the teal haired to chock a bit. 

Isshiki stepped back a bit, scared at the blue haired player. Although Isshiki saw him before and the rest of the players present now, it’s different when they notice her. She regained her composure and said, “And you’re that guy who got caught in the fishing net, right?” 

Aomine flinched, turning pale at that description while Midorimia held back a laughter since he knew he was the person dragging this dumbass with a fishing net. “TETSU! YOU TOLD HER?” Aomine yelled, letting go of his partner. 

“You never said that I’m not allowed to tell her.” 

“THINK OF MY PRIDE AS A MAN!” 

“You’re barely a man. You’re still a boy.” 

Isshiki giggled softly at the two; she was happy that Kuroko is getting along with them. She was actually afraid that he would get bullied by his lack of presence and not acknowledge him for it too.

“HIII!! I’m Momoi Satsuki!!” She smiled, but Isshiki can see that behind that smile is some kind of anger and jealousy. She somewhat had a theory that this pink haired girl likes Kuroko—at least it’s based on the number of times she has witnessed her tackle her friend to the ground. 

“Hey. Isshiki Usagi here.” She introduced herself as she went closer, trying to get her mouth near her ear. “For the record, I don’t like Kuroko. He’s all yours.” 

Momoi pulled back with a heavy blush around her face. She held her warm cheeks with both of her hands. This action caused Isshiki to smile at it, and she also smiled because she was happy that someone likes Kuroko romantically for who he is. It’s something you don’t even see these days, especially with girls like Momoi. 

Isshiki suddenly shivered violently when she felt someone sniffing her from behind. She moved back immediately to only miss her step, and so as she prepared for impact, she felt a strong chest on her back. 

“Murasakibara, refrain yourself from scaring Kuroko’s friend.” A surprisingly soothing yet authoritative voice caught her off guard. 

“Ehhhhh???? Sorryyyyyy!!” Murasakibara whined apologetically 

Out of curiosity, she turned her head to the side, causing her to lean more onto this mysterious guy’s chest. When she finally got the view she wanted, she was shocked to see a sharp jawline that captures his perfectly handsome face. What got her attention even more is his strong cat-like eyes; it brought shivers down her spine just by thinking about them. 

“Are you okay, Isshiki?” He asked, bringing shivers down her spine once more. 

“Y-Yeah. Thank you for catching me,” Isshiki expressed her thanks as she looked away, getting a bit shy by his intense gaze. 

“Ne! Ne! Isshi-chin, why do you smell delicious? You smell like food. Do you have more food?” Murasakibara asked, yawning a bit. 

Isshi-chin? “O-Oh. I came back from a seminar for chefs so maybe I still got the scent of the foods they were demonstrating?” Isshiki said, feeling her nose getting runny at the coldness. “As for food, I’m sorry, but I don’t have any at the moment.” 

Murasakibara tilted his head a bit then said, “Hehhh?? So you’re a chef? Kuro-chin, why didn’t you introduce me to her? She can make me food. Ne! Ne! Can you make—SHE ISN’T YOUR PERSONAL CHEF, BAKA!” Midorima came into the picture, karate chopping Murasakibara’s head. 

“Hehhhh?? But I want to taste her cooking!!” 

“BAKA! Stop being disrespectful!” 

Isshiki just tilted her head again to see the entire group fighting again for some reason. She’s confused as to why this green haired have to make a big deal out of it? She has no problem making food for this gigantic purple creature so why is he making a scene out of it? 

“Well, this is something you don’t see everyday.” Isshiki paused at that soothing tone. “Kuroko is getting mad at Murasakibara? Who wouldn’t have thought that he had it in him.” Akashi finished, causing Isshiki to shriek quietly to realize she is still in his arms. 

“I AM SO SORRY!” Isshiki yelled, immediately getting away from him. This only caused her to sneeze a bit. She has to admit, but Akashi’s body heat was able to heat her up a bit. 

Akashi smiled. “It’s okay.” He reassured her. “If you don’t mind me asking, are Isshiki Satoshi and Isshiki Nene your parents? I noticed that you have the same last name as the chefs my father once called to do a live cooking at one of the parties he organized.” 

Isshiki’s eyes went wide. “Yes, I am their daughter.” She was surprised that someone knew her background. Chefs and cooking is not a trend to youngsters today so it’s obvious no one knows her origins, and she couldn’t care less about it either. 

“You seemed surprised,” Akashi said, studying her facial expressions. Isshiki’s expressions are so obvious, it entertained the red eyed emperor. 

“I just didn’t expect that someone would realize whose daughter I am,” Isshiki shrugged her shoulders, kicking the rocks on the ground. 

“You don’t like it when someone recognizes you?” Akashi asked.

“I didn’t imply it that way. Just you know? Cooking and chefs are not a trend for people of our age so I wasn’t expecting someone as popular as you to know who I am,” Isshiki said, crossing her arms to give herself more heat. 

Akashi noticed how cold she is so he started to open his bag. “Someone like me?” He asked, looking at her for a bit to only look back on his bag as he looked for it. 

“Well yeah? Aren’t you Akashi Seijūrō? I heard the name Akashi before too from my parents. All I know is that it’s a powerful company? Okay anyway, I also kinda know you because the girls in my class would squeal LIKE CRAZYYY whenever they see you too.” She finished speaking, causing Akashi to chuckle a bit. 

“Well. I guess you can say I am honored that someone like you knows who I am too,” Akashi smiled, pulling out his varsity jacket. 

Isshiki’s eyes went wide as she snorted out laughing. “That’s kinda stupid coming from someone who’s actually more popular than me, don’t you think?” Akashi’s eyes also went wide, not knowing what to do with her reaction. He didn’t expect her to be loud. He had the impression that she was polite and soft-spoken. 

“Don’t be ridiculous. Popular or not. I am honored by someone like you who knows who I am, Isshiki.” Akashi smiled, wrapping his varsity jacket around her, which shocked the entire team. Murasakibara even dropped his Maibu at the scene. 

“What’s this?” Isshiki asked, noticing how warm his jacket was. 

“A jacket to keep you warm,” Akashi said, helping her to wear his jacket as if she’s a child. This angered Isshiki a bit. 

“I’m flattered, but don’t you think you need it more than me? I mean this is your varsity jacket too,” Isshiki looked at him with concern, ignoring how warm her body had become after wearing his jacket. 

“It’s fine, really. Just give it back to me tomorrow,” Akashi smiled, zipping the jacket secured. 

“T-Thank you,” Isshiki blushed at the kind gesture as he smiled at her gratefulness. 

“OI! Don’t forget we are here too,” Aomine’s eye twitched at this love tension going on. 

“DAI-CHAN! Why did you ruin it!” Momoi scolded her childhood friend to only make Aomine whine a bit at Momoi’s nonsense. 

Kuroko coughed, breaking the tension. “Isshiki-san, it’s getting late. Do you want me to walk you home?” 

“I walked here when it’s already late. I think I can manage going back. Besides, it seems like you guys are planning to go somewhere, right?” Isshiki pointed out, placing her cold hands on the pockets of the jacket. 

“Well yeah but—but none! I’ll be fine, Kuroko. I’ll see you guys on Monday!!” Isshiki waved them goodbye as she left. 

As soon as she was gone, Kuroko placed his hand down as he suddenly said, “Akashi-kun, I’m surprised you gave her your jacket.” This made the crimson red hair flinch a bit. 

“Won’t you even do the same thing?” Akashi pointed out, embarrassed with what he did a bit. And he doesn’t get why he is like this since he also did the same thing to many women too. 

“I didn’t bring my jacket.” 

“Kuroko, just help me out here.” 

“Eh? Help you where?” 

“Nevermind, let’s just go.”

Chapter Text

Girls squealing for Akashi is not a surprise for Midorima Shintaro anymore. He actually understands their reaction because this side of Akashi is a gentleman and is every girl’s dream. However, the other side of Akashi is a cold blooded man who wants everything his own way. This cold side of Akashi is not often seen by many, and he doesn’t show it to others. Akashi is often kind enough to make people like him too. 

Midorima wondered which side of Akashi is his real and true self, but he still hasn’t gotten the answer. So for Akashi to suddenly be touchy with Isshiki got him worried a bit. It’s true that he has no evidence that Akashi’s other side can be violent, but he got scared when he saw how Akashi held Isshiki that day. 

Midorima could never forget how Akashi looked at Isshiki as he held her tighter and closer to him—not wanting to let her go. 

The green haired player is scared that Isshiki would be someone Akashi thinks is worth playing.

“You seemed distressed, Midorima.” The green haired got snapped back to reality when he heard Akashi’s voice. He looked down immediately, causing his eyesight to become blurry at the sudden move. 

He looked straight again to regain his posture. “I’m fine.” 

Akashi stared at him for a few seconds before he looked straight into the halls again. Silence occured between the two, and it’s a normal routine for the both of them too. But Midorima’s words cut the silence and caught Akashi’s attention. 

“Don’t do anything wrong with Isshiki.” 

Akashi paused for a moment, looking at his fellow teammate with an expression that even Midorima can’t interpret. If there is one thing Midorima should always know is that never question Akashi ever. The green haired player can only sweat a bit as his eyes quiver in fear, petrified with what his reaction will be. 

“Midorima,” Akashi said coldly. “Don’t get the wrong idea. I’m not interested in her, just impressed by how she noticed a person like Kuroko. Besides, you already know my preferences in women.” 

Midorima gulped a bit, and Akashi began walking again. “I like a woman with dignity.” 

“Are you implying she has no dignity?” Midorima just had to ask in curiosity, and also a confirmation if Akashi really won’t play with her. 

“Why are you getting worked up, Midorima? Do you like her?” 

Midorima immediately shook his head; he just met the girl too. There’s no way that he will like a girl that quick too. And as harsh as it sounds, Isshiki is not his type of girl. 

“Then, you have nothing to worry about.” Was all Akashi said before walking away, leaving Midorima dumbfounded. 

•| ☽༓☾ |•

Akashi Seijūrō is a man who knows his worth. He’s someone who is flexible with everything, allowing him to excel in many things. This is a great skill, especially in socializing too. As the son of a powerful CEO in Japan, his father expects him to socialize with daughters and sons of powerful people. This allows their name to be known and be spread out to different nations in the world. 

Because he has been with different types of people in the other world, Akashi can properly distinguish the right words to a particular person to get on their good side. His father was very much delighted that he has developed a skill like this at such a young age too. 

This is why he is popular at school. He used his socializing skills to get on the good side of the students and teachers. Not that he cares for popularity, but it’s more on being forced to make the Akashi name known for being excellent. 

All those gifts and chocolates he receives from girls are practically nothing to him. They are nothing to them because he got them from females that are not worth his time. Akashi knew those types of girls who try to get his attention. It’s very similar to girls at his party. Girls like that think they can get anything they want by flashing their breasts and putting on heavy makeup is bullshit to Akashi. 

This is why he wants a woman with dignity — a woman who is worthy of respect from others and his. 

This is why he is cautious around Isshiki Usagi as well. Hence, why Akashi predicted that Isshiki Usagi will be a hindrance, just like those other girls. Akashi has never been wrong before, and he definitely won’t be wrong now. 

That's just how absolute he is. 

— or is he? 

Suddenly, a small hand clutched his blazer, and he didn’t have time to react because he was pulled inside an empty room. Next, he was pushed to the wall as two arms trapped the basketball player. He was absolutely shocked with what just happened. The crimson red haired demanded to know who this person is. So he looked down to see a familiar orange haired girl. 

“I finally gotcha!” Isshiki smiled while sweating heavily. 

Gotcha? “Isshiki, what is this?” Akashi asked, trying to hide his annoyance. His likeness for Isshiki is dwindling heavily at the moment. 

“Eh? I pushed you against the wall.” Isshiki replied as if it’s the most obvious answer. 

Akashi’s eye twitched a bit. “That’s not a concrete answer, Isshiki.” 

“Well, I just wanted to try it for fun, I guess?” Isshiki answered back with confidence. Her answer caused Akashi to really almost snap at her for giving such a stupid answer. 

“Isshiki. This behavior is highly unacceptable and unladylike too. What if someone gets hurt by an action like this?” Akashi asked, practically begging her to get off him. 

Isshiki just stared at him. “Geez!! You take everything so seriously!!” She whined, getting away from him as she walked 5 steps away from him. Akashi mentally thanked the heavens for giving him the space needed. 

“So why did you pull me in he—seriously, you should really take care of your fanbase, bro,” Akashi couldn’t believe it. He just got interrupted by this lowlife of a girl. 

“If you are complaining about why you’re here then, blame your fanbase! Not me!” Isshiki yelled, crossing her arms as she looked at him straight into the eyes. 

Akashi has to admit. No one, absolutely no one has ever made him look so dumbfounded. “Why are you bringing my ‘fanbase’ to this conversation?” 

Isshiki sighed, rubbing the sides of her foreheads. “YOUR FANBASE IS A GROUP OF PSYCHOPATHS!” 

Akashi blinked thrice. “Heh?” 

“Like for fuck’s sake, all I wanted is to give you your jacket but NOOOOO!! Your fangirls are such a hassle! As I was gonna give you your jacket a while ago, I fucking saw a group of girls watching you walk. I find that so scary, for your information. BUT ANYWAY! I overheard them saying ‘ I’ll kill anyone who takes Akashi-sama.’ ‘If I can’t have him then, no one else can.’ LIKE?!? Do you know how scary it is just to walk up to you knowing those psychos can ambush you any second?!?” She complained. 

“So here is your fucking jack—Heh?” She stopped her sentence when Isshiki realized that she fucking left the damn jacket in her classroom. 

“Hm. I was wondering when you’ll notice,” Akashi simply said, causing Isshiki to shriek in anger and annoyance. 

“YOU KNEW? AND YOU DIDN’T TELL ME?” Isshiki yelled, clenching her fist in irritation, not understanding why he didn’t tell her. 

“Well, it’s your own fault. You should realize it on your own and not have someone point it out for you,” Akashi said in a hard tone as he crossed his arms. 

Isshiki stared at the crimson boy in a blank expression, obviously done with his peculiar attitude. So she sighed as she said in a tired tone, “Yahhhhh. Don’t you have human courtesy?” 

Akashi flinched. “I’m pretty sure I have more human courtesy than you have.” Akashi growled, glaring at this annoying girl. 

“Well then, if you have human courtesy! Please accept my plea for help so you can get your jacket!!” Isshiki begged, putting both her hands together. 

Akashi stared at her bowing gesture, thinking if he should accept her plea. It’s just a jacket for fuck’s sake, if he loses one then he can buy another one from coach. Besides, if he says yes too, that would mean that he has to spend more time with this idiotic and loud person. 

— so why is he… 

“Alright. Meet me at the Shogi room after school.” 

…doing the exact opposite of what needs to be done?

Isshiki smiled, showing her teeth. “Alright!!”

Chapter Text

‘Just what the fuck is happening?’  Is a phrase that the great Akashi Seijūrō would have never thought to think about. Although he is eating at the cafeteria with the rest of his team mates, his mind is somewhere else. He became more wary of his surroundings, scared that a particular orange haired would pop out of nowhere. 

“Aka-chin? Why aren’t you eating?” Murasakibara asked, stuffing his mouth with the rice. This caught Akashi off guard, and he couldn’t even fucking believe it. He got  distracted. He fought himself not to give an obvious annoyed expression like for fuck’s sakes not even his favorite sport can get him this distracted. 

Akashi cleared his throat. “I’m fine, Murasakibara. Thank you for asking.” 

Meanwhile, Midorima has a theory as to why Akashi is like this. It’s already obvious that Isshiki is behind his distraction. The green haired couldn’t believe it though. Someone—a girl—is making him distracted. Not that it bothers him or anything, he wasn’t just expecting it to happen to Akashi at this very moment. 

As the day went by, Akashi was not himself. 

He did many things he didn’t think it was possible for him to do as an excel student and player. First, he dozed off classes. Second, he bumped into many things, and he managed to fucking fell into a bush. Lastly, he played badly in basketball. He was so out of himself to the point he was asked to take a break for today. 

In frustration, he walked out of the gymnasium as everyone looked at him with worried yet confused eyes. 

This is definitely not like him, even the inner voice inside him is fucking telling him to get rid of Isshiki. She is becoming a hindrance to their goal—the goal to become victorious in everything on a daily basis. That goal was not complete for today because of her. 

Get rid of her. The inner voice kept repeating inside his head. 

“Yes. You’re right.” Akashi coldly said. “I need to fucking get rid of her.” His eyes turned dark in annoyance, glaring at the air. 

Well that’s a bummer since Akashi subconsciously walked to the Shogi room — the place where they agreed to meet. The crimson red player wanted to fucking scream at this point. Why did he have to walk to the very place where he can see her anytime soon? 

“It’s true I go here all the time to play but to think my own very body would drag me here at this fucking time,” Akashi growled, scolding himself for being so stupid? out of it? He can’t even find the right words to describe himself right now. 

Akashi inhaled a deep breath. “Calm down. She probably isn’t here so I can just leave imm—”

He stopped talking when he heard the sound of pawn pieces clashing to the board. His eyes immediately turned to the room again to see Isshiki. She was holding a Shogi Book Guideline as she continued to figure out which piece should go on what. 

He can’t help but stare at how serious she looks. He doesn’t know why but she looks so mesmerizing to watch. The way her face just stares seriously at the book as her inexperienced hands figure out how to strategize. Akashi has seen many women play Shogi, but they were never as mesmerizing as she is. 

Akashi watched as her head turned to his side. Her serious pink eyes turned wide as soon as she met a pair of red eyes. The crimson red-haired watched as the cold breeze lifted up her hair to one side, making it dance in the air. 

“Akashi?” She called his name. 

She watched as his eyes went wide for a second to only go back to its original eye shape. “You’re here quite early.” Akashi pointed out, coming inside the room. 

“Please shut the door next time though.” He added, sliding the door closed. For some reason, Isshiki shivered, feeling protective of herself when he closed the door. Two opposite sex in one room? What can possibly go wrong. 

“My bad,” Isshiki apologetically smiled. “Was it wrong of me to come here early?” 

Akashi closed his eyes. “No.” He walked to where Isshiki was playing Shogi. He then sat down on the opposite side of the table with his arms crossed. 

“Let’s play,” He demanded. 

Isshiki just tilted her head in confusion. “Eh?” 

The crimson red haired sighed. “Don’t waste my time, Isshiki. Do what you're told.” 

She just stared at him blankly, clenching her eyes in irritation to see how demanding this human skittle is. “Nahhhhh,” She whined playfully, crossing her arms and legs as if she’s challenging the emperor. 

“No? ” Akashi snapped his eyes open, staring deep into her soul. Someone dares to defy him? And that someone is someone like Isshiki? Oh boy. Akashi is not going to let this slide. 

Isshiki sighed in defeat. “C’mon nowww!! You said you have more human courtesy than I do!!” She whined. “Don’t you think you should prove it by saying please? ” She leaned against the chair as she pointed at Akashi. 

“If you want me to play, then say please.” 

Akashi couldn’t believe it. She’s using his own words against him. Regardless how smart that is, he couldn’t accept that he is being treated like this. But, he definitely does not want to bring down his facade as the perfect student just because he is being provoked at. Doing so would mean he dwindled down his levels of victory and perfection. 

“Fine.” Akashi sighed, causing Isshiki to be pleased with his answer. 

“Play with me…” Akashi started off strong till he stuttered out, “….. p-please. ” 

Isshiki smiled brightly, showing her teeth of satisfaction to him. “You did great, Akashi! I’m proud of you!” 

Akashi’s eyes shimmered as his heart skipped a bit. 

“You did great, Seijūrō!! Mommy is proud of you!!” 

Those were the exact phrases that his mother would say every time he accomplished something—either he failed or succeeded, his mother would always say the same words. 

Isshiki noticed how he looked a bit down. She subconsciously stood up from her chair as she bent down to reach her hand to Akashi. “Are you alright?” She asked, touching his cheek in a delicate matter. 

Akashi’s eyes went wide as he instantly looked up to meet her pink mesmerizing eyes. Neither moved nor spoke so Akashi used this time to properly look at her eyes. Sakura is what reminded him when he saw the eye color. This thought made his heart skip a beat once more because Sakuras reminded him of his beloved mother — the only person who treated him with love and kindness. 

Meanwhile, Isshiki is getting worried. The fact that Akashi suddenly got quiet is what concerns her more. She started to assume that he is hurt with something she said or he’s hurt because something happened in basketball? She has legit no idea what’s happening. All she knows is that something is wrong with Akashi, and she has no idea how to help him. 

“Wow.” An English word interrupted each other’s thoughts. 

The two slowly look over to their side to see Kuroko standing by the door with his usual blank expression. Isshiki’s cheeks combust into flames of embarrassment when she realizes what position they are at. While Akashi managed to keep his composure— as expected as the son of a CEO. 

“Kuroko, what are you doing here?” Akashi stood up from his chair, acting as if nothing happened. 

“Oh, the coach wanted me to check on you,” Kuroko is also acting as if nothing is wrong, causing Isshiki to somewhat be more embarrassed. 

“I’m feeling fine already. We can go back already,” Akashi said with a straight face. 

The latter looked back at Isshiki then said, “Come back here tomorrow at lunch time. You can give me my jacket then.” 

Isshiki covered her face with her hair, not looking at Akashi out of shyness. “Y-Yeah. S-Sure. See you.” 

Kuroko diverted his eyes to a flustered Isshiki as he studied the room’s atmosphere. He saw Akashi walking towards him and said, “Alright. Let’s g—” He didn’t even finish his sentence when he saw Akashi walk past him already. However what shocked him even more was something else. It caused him to blank off a bit. 

The latter remembered that Isshiki’s still here so he said, “Ah! Isshiki-san, it’s getting late. You should go home already. I’ll see you tomorrow.”

Isshiki just nodded shyly, not over with what just fucking happened. She couldn’t believe that she did something so embarrassing in front of a friend. She just prays that Kuroko won’t get the wrong idea. 

The scene skips to Kuroko trying to catch up with Akashi down the hall. The teal haired watched as Akashi just kept walking at such a fast pace. He tilted his head to the side as he noticed how Akashi looks more…not himself but is doing okay? He can’t find the proper words because it’s something Kuroko never thought he would describe the perfect Akashi Seijūrō. 

“Who would have thought huh….” Kuroko mumbled, looking up at the ceiling for a bit. “….that Akashi would make such a face?” 

Kuroko looked back at Akashi’s back as he remembered his facial expression when he left the Shogi room. It’s not noticeable from afar, but up close…

Kuroko definitely saw a hint of redness in Akashi’s cheeks.

Chapter Text

“Momoi-san….” Isshiki called out in a tired voice, looking all pale and exhausted even though it’s still afternoon. Momoi stopped drinking her juice, and sweat formed in her cheek to see Isshiki resting her head down the table as she stabbed her food with a spoon tiredly. 

“I-Isshi-kun, I think you should eat at least a little…” Momoi expresses her concern. To be honest, the pink-haired can’t blame her female friend though. It’s been a very hectic week for Isshiki. 

“Just why…” Isshiki spoke. 

The latter lifted her head up to reveal her dark circles beneath her eyes. “JUST WHY IS IT HARD TO RETURN A JACKET?!?” 

Momoi watched her friend cry in desperation. She took a bite of her food as she watched Isshiki pounding the table with her fist. She looked up at the ceiling, remembering everything that happened over the week. She really felt bad for her friend, but she can’t help but fangirl too on how cute Isshiki and Akashi looked together too. 

Over the past week, Isshiki tried to give the jacket back, but many, as in many, encounters happened during the process. The main reason? It’s simple to be honest. The reason why she can’t give back the jacket is because of Akashi’s fangirls. For some reason, those psychos are really good at finding out what Akashi’s doing. 

Every fucking time Isshiki finally has the moment to give Akashi his jacket, those fangirls would appear out of nowhere. Isshiki isn’t even exaggerating at this point like even at the quietest room the two would find, they’ll still be interrupted by those fangirls. 

Giving his jacket in the Shogi room is also such a bigass failure since they would end up playing Shogi for hours to the point Isshiki forgot to give the jacket. Even waiting for Akashi by the gate is a no-no since he has basketball practice. Isshiki tried leaving it by his locker room, but it was another failure since a crazy fangirl tried stealing it to keep it to herself. 

Getting that jacket back from that crazy girl took a lot of Isshiki’s manipulative sweet talking and mental energy. 

But despite being tired, Isshiki is really feeling bad for Akashi. The number of times she asked him to meet up to only not go as planned is really making her feel guilty. It’s obvious Akashi has many things to do, and it’s bothering her heavily that he has to adjust his schedule because of her. 

Momoi waved her goodbye to Isshiki after eating. She had to meet up with Aomine soon for something. Isshiki also bid her goodbye since she wanted to stay somewhere quiet for now. She honestly wanted to sleep too—just like 30 minutes of sleep is enough. 

As she was walking, she heard the sound of a violin not far from her distance. Isshiki has no idea why, but she is so drawn to it. It’s weird though, given how she has heard people playing the violin countless times in this school. It’s like something is telling her to go check it out so her legs dragged her to the sound. 

As she followed the sound, she dragged her hand to the wall, looking for the source of the music. She peaked through the door to see Akashi. 

Woah. Isshiki’s eyes sparkled, enchanted by how Akashi looks right now. He looks incredibly majestic and somehow good looking playing the violin. She has no idea, but she is fascinated by how the Teiko uniform looks good on Akashi while playing. 

“Didn’t know you were such a creep, Isshiki,” Akashi said, finishing playing his piece. 

Isshiki smiled playfully. “Rather than creep, I’m just shocked that you know how to play a violin.” The latter slid the door close as she invited herself inside the room. “You keep surprising me everyday, Akashi.” 

Akashi can only chuckle. “I can say the same thing. Yesterday, you taught me what a Kalimba is, right? I never knew such an instrument existed too.” 

Isshiki nodded. “You remembered what a Kalimba is yet you forgot to take your jacket with you as soon as you left.” She pointed out with a small sigh, pouting a bit. 

“Sorry about that. I was feeling tired from practice,” Akashi reasoned out, putting down the violin. 

She arched her brow. “Hahhh???” She crossed her arms. “Yet after teaching me Physics, which is a VERY heavy subject, you played basketball immediately. You call that tired?” 

His mouth formed a small smile. “I think by now you should know how much I love basketball.” 

Isshiki laughed loudly, holding her stomach. “DUH!! Remember I had to wait for you during your solo practice just to give you your jacket? Of course while waiting, I watched, and not gonna lie, I saw a normal teenager doing the sport he really, reallyyyy loves.” 

Badump. Akashi ignored that sudden heartbeat he felt. “Then after my practice, those fangirls appeared even before you gave me my jacket.” He added, chuckling at the memory. 

She again laughed at the memory. “AHAHAH YEAHHH!! Then both of us had to run away together.” 

“You were surprisingly slow so I had to hold you for you to keep up with me,” Akashi teased, remembering how he held your wrist. He also remembered how tired you looked just to match his speed. 

Isshiki pouted a bit. “I’m flattered you thought of me during that time, but…” She paused to point at him. “I AINT SLOW! You’re just freakishly fast because you’re an athlete!! Don’t make fun of my non-existent athletic skills!” 

Akashi smiled again, laughing a bit. “But you are slow,” He teased again. He crossed his arms as his bangs fell down, covering one eye, and this made him look incredibly attractive. 

Isshiki flinched at the new look. “I-I already told you! I’m not slo—” She stopped talking when she saw Akashi in front of her. Him being so close to her caused her to be shy a bit. Like c’mon, Akashi is really good looking for a middle schooler. So she stupidly had her mouth open as she found the right words to convey her thoughts properly.

Akashi brought his hand to her hair to remove a leaf. “Hm. Not only slow in speed, but also slow in noticing things,” He pointed out like it's the most obvious thing ever. He showed her the leaf that landed on her head. 

“HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT?” She yelled, ruffling her hair to check if there are any more leaves or something else. 

“You’re just an idiot,” He teased, inspecting the leaf. 

Isshiki just pouted again, causing Akashi to grin a bit. “Well then…” He smiled. “You should rely on me when you’re slow.” He grinned, combing his hair back as he show off his forehead and intense cat-like gaze. 

Isshiki’s eyes went wide, feeling herself shrink at his intense gaze. “Then, you should rely on me too…” She shyly said, averting his eyes away from his gaze. She subconsciously started to play with the hem of her white blazer. 

Akashi’s eyes went wide, remembering those words coming from her mouth the other day. He remembered that memory so perfectly since from that day, his perspective of Isshiki has changed. I guess you can say that he found Isshiki tolerable compared to other girls. 

FLASHBACK 

“Just how many times we had to run away from your fucking fanbase, bro,” Isshiki panted, wiping her sweaty face with her handkerchief. Right now, the duo hid temporarily at the rooftop of Teiko. She can’t believe that they had to run from the back of the school to the science lab then to this rooftop. All this running just to get away from Akashi’s stupid fanbase. 

Even Akashi was getting annoyed at his current situation. All this just to give back his damn jacket. At this point, he should just tell her to stop bothering him about it since he can buy another varsity jacket. 

“Just how exactly do you cope with something like that? Do you have to deal with this everyday?” Isshiki asked, catching him off guard. 

“Not exactly. The only reason why they are extra attentive with me is because a girl is bold enough to drag me around just to return a jacket,” Akashi coldly reminded. It’s true though. His so-called fangirls weren't this wild till Isshiki started talking with him. 

“What the fuck,” Isshiki cursed. 

Akashi clicked his tongue in annoyance. “Don’t blame me on th—Why are they treating you as if you aren’t human but something they own?” His eyes went wide with that question from Isshiki. 

He snapped his head to her side as he saw your annoyed expression. “Damn it! Just thinking about it boils my blood!! What gives them the right to just decide for you, especially when you’re with a girl? What rights do they have to decide which girl you should spend time with? Like hello? Thats fucking dumb,” Isshiki glared at the air, getting annoyed by the minute. 

Akashi just lets out a sigh. “That’s just how it is, alright? Even with my father, he decides for me to build that excellent son image.” 

Isshiki stared at him with sorry eyes. She had an idea that Akashi grew up with strict parents, but she didn’t expect him to grow up in such a harsh household. Meanwhile, Akashi knew exactly what those eyes were. He hates those eyes because he has seen the same expression to other girls. 

Girls like that think they know what Akashi is going through, but they don’t. It annoyed him to see how they fucking pretend they do, and it frustrates him that those girls “sympathize” with him when in reality, they are doing this to get his attention. 

“Fucking stop that. I know those eyes. Don’t act as if you understand me when you don’t,” Akashi harshly growled. 

“Stop bullshiting youself, Isshiki. You won’t understand anything since you grew up with loving parents.” 

Isshiki just stared at him, waiting patiently for him to calm down. After she noticed he calmed down, she smiled at him softly. “Then make me understand.” 

Those simple words made Akashi feel off—not in a bad way but rather a good way. He didn’t expect that at all. From experience, he expected a rebuttal but instead she accepted his words. 

“Why?” Akashi couldn’t help but ask this. 

“Because you need someone to rely on,” She answered with a smile. 

Akashi scoffed. “I already have my teammates to rely on,” He proudly said, and it’s true. He does care for his friends so much that he pretty much relies on them. 

Isshiki looked down at his shoes smiling. “I know, but…” She paused as she stepped forward, stepping inside his circle territory. “It’s not wrong to having more people to rely on, don’t you think?” 

“But why you specifically?” Akashi asked, curious to know what her answer may be. 

“I dunno!!” Isshiki giggled. “Just why not!!” 

Isshiki shrugged her shoulders with a smile. “So rely on me, Akashi!!” 

Badump. Akashi’s heart skipped a beat in delight for the first time ever.

FLASHBACK ENDS 

Akashi’s cheeks unknowingly produced a hint of redness as he remembered that memory. He patted her head with a smile, causing her to gasp a bit from the unexpected movement from him. 

“HELLOOOO?? Basketball to Akashi?!! I asked if you’ll rely on me, will you though?” Isshiki asked one more time, waving her hand in front of him. 

Akashi smiled. “Definitely.” 

Chapter Text

And we’re back on another episode of Giving Akashi’s jacket ft. psychos fangirls. At the moment, Isshiki is once again watching Akashi doing his solo practice in basketball. It became a routine for her to bring water and a towel for him to wipe too. She couldn’t stand seeing the sweat on his body like what if he gets sick? It’s getting really cold in Japan right now, especially in Tokyo. 

“You know!” Akashi suddenly yelled while dribbling the ball. “I’ve never tried your cooking!” He stopped as he jumped backwards and did a three pointer flawlessly. 

Woahhhh, thats so cool. “Well, you wanna try?” Isshiki yelled back. 

Akashi grabbed the ball he just shot then chuckled, “ Baka , why else would I ask about it?” 

“WELL HOW WAS I SUPPOSED TO KNOW THAT?!?” She yelled back, tossing her arms around the air in a playful manner. This caused Akashi to smile again, delighted to see her in such a playful state. 

“Well now you know, baka,” He teased, dribbling the ball again but this time he was walking towards her. 

Isshiki pouted a bit, crossing her legs over each other. “I wanted to give you food, but I didn’t know what because I’m afraid that you will be allergic to it or something.” She said in a shy tone for some reason. 

“So? What do you want me to cook for you?”

He dribbled in between his legs as he continued to walk forward. “I’m glad you think of me, Isshiki. As for the food, anything is okay as long as you’re making it.” 

Badump. Isshiki ignored her heart again as she started to think of possible food to cook for him. She wanted to give him the best first impression of her food too. As spontaneous as she is, she feels incredibly competitive around Akashi. She guessed that it all started when she played Shogi with him for the first time. 

“Since it's cold at the moment, you want me to make you Yudoufu ? 

Akashi's world stopped. His tired heart sped up at the new feeling as his body felt light in bliss. He has done it many times in front of Isshiki only, and so his mouth formed a huge genuine smile when he heard his favorite food coming from her mouth.  

Isshiki didn’t notice, but the distance between the two began to dwindle. “I’ll look forward to it, Isshiki,” He did one last dribble as he stood in front of her with a gaze Isshiki couldn't interpret. 

Suddenly a loud ring tone cut the tension between the two. Akashi can’t express how fucking annoyed and angry he is right now. How dare someone interrupt their moment? “How fucking dare they…” Akashi cursed softly, making sure Isshiki wouldn't hear him. 

“DAI-CHAN! I SAID KEEP YOUR PHONE IN SILENT!” 

Akashi’s eyebrow twitched. “ Aomine . Momoi . Show yourselves now .” 

Aomine and Momoi flinched violently at his powerful voice. Boy, he is angry. The two gulped vigorously as sweat forms their entire body. With their last bit of courage, the two finally presented themselves in front of the emperor. 

“Ho?? You two were spying at us?” Akashi asked, trying to conceal his annoyance since he’s in front of Isshiki. 

Aomine gulped, “Uhhhh nooooo— Aomine , are you implying I’m wrong?” Akashi’s whole demeanor turned dark, getting annoyed by the minute. 

“Yes, we were spying on you. Simply because we were curious,” Kuroko suddenly popped in front of Aomine, giving the explanation that satisfied Akashi. However, it somewhat made Isshiki feel embarrassed that they were being spied on. Being spied on by people you know is completely different from being spied on by Akashi’s fangirls. 

“Hehhhhh?? How come Aka-chin can hang with her? And how come Aka-chin can taste Isshi-chin’s cooking?” Murasakibara whined as he finished his bag of chips. This was his 10th bag of chips. 

“ Baka , it’s because you keep on pestering her. Akashi asked her without force,” Midorima appeared, pushing his glasses up. His lens shimmered at the action. 

Akashi sighed, letting go of all anger a while ago. “I can’t believe that you followed them, Midorima.” 

“Don’t get the wrong idea. I just caught into their childish schemes,” Midorima immediately retorted. 

“Why are you even curious? This isn’t even the first time I’m alone with a girl,” Akashi pointed out. 

“Well yeah, but it’s the first time you’ve spent with the same girl,” Aomine teased, causing Momoi to hit him in the back. She scolded him not to say such things, especially in front of Isshiki. 

Akashi sighed. “Stop that. You’re making me as if I’m a playboy,” He threw the basketball towards Aomine with much force in annoyance. The ace indeed did catch it, but he could’ve fallen down if he didn’t have a strong core to hold his body up. 

Isshiki had a feeling that she should get going for some reason. She grabbed her school bag and said, “A-Akashi, I think it’s better if I get goi—” She didn’t finish her sentence when someone grabbed her wrist. The latter immediately turned around to see Akashi’s shocked expression. 

“Akashi? What are you— Stay, ” Akashi said out loud, gripping her wrist desperately. 

Her pupils quivered as the adrenaline in her veins sped up. She didn’t expect him to say that out of all things — the great Akashi is asking her to stay? That’s something, alright. Not that she hated it or anything, she simply can’t interpret what she felt at the moment. 

“Damn so that’s how you get girls, huh?” Aomine burst the tension between them. 

Midorima sighed. “Aomine. You really can’t read the room.” 

“Mine-chin’s dumb~” Murasakibara added, eating his chips lazily. 

“SHUT UP!” Aomine retorted. 

“But you are though,” Kuroko suddenly popped out of nowhere. 

“SERIOUSLY? YOU TOO, TETSU?” 

“Aomine.” Akashi’s cold tone caught the blue ace off guard. “You want me to double up your training?” Akashi smiled sadistically, scaring the poor player to the bones. 

“A-Akashi, I didn’t mean—” Aomine shut his mouth when he saw his hard glare staring down at his soul. It was penetrating deeply into his, causing him to shiver violently. 

“YES! I’LL ACCEPT YOUR DOUBLE TRAINING!!” 

Isshiki just sweats. “They do know that I’m still here, right?”

Chapter Text

Damn. Isshiki never thought that she would take this long to make Yudoufu. Right now, she’s at her classroom, yawning heavily for staying up really late making Yudoufu. What ticks her off is that she made it before to experiment with Tofu Dishes, that’s why she’s confused as to why she is taking really long making this. 

“Damn, did I really take long just to make a good impression? He really is stimulating my inner competitiveness,” Isshiki thought, yawning again as she stretched her arms. 

“How shameless can she be?” 

Isshiki stopped yawning, turning her pupils to the side to see a group of girls whispering. They continued to gossip, snickering cockily as they continued to look down on her. 

“How does she have the audacity to hang with Akashi-sama?” 

“Ugh! She isn’t even that pretty.” 

“I know right! Like did you see how fat she looks while changing for PE? She should look at her weight first before even thinking of Akashi-sama.” 

Isshiki just listened to their gossip for a while then shifted her gaze to the ceiling. She began to wonder what the food was at the cafetera. “Damn. If it’s that soggy ass tempura again, I’m gonna puke.” 

The girls gossiping couldn’t believe it. Isshiki is completely ignoring them. Of course, they didn’t like the fact they were not getting the reaction they wanted. But the thing is, Isshiki has been ignoring their gossip since then because she couldn’t care less what they think. 

This is a trait that she got from her father, Isshiki Satoshi. It is known that her father never really cared for gossip and such. He usually just let it slide and moved on with his day. And Isshiki Usagi is very much like her father. 

“So now. How should I give this,” Isshiki pointed at the Yudoufu. “And this,” She pointed at his jacket, sealed in a bag. “To Akashi without getting murdered by the psychos?” 

She began thinking of ways to give it to him that requires them not to be caught by his fanbase. That’s when she suddenly remembered the rooftop. Her eyes shimmered in delight, recalling that when they ran there, there were no fanbase encounters. Therefore, she decided to finally give his jacket (plus food) at the rooftop. 

So she decided to go to the Shogi room to look for him. Over the past weeks, she noticed that Akashi loves to stay in the Shogi room to play as he passes time by. It also became a routine for her to play with him too. Ishhiki prayed to God that she and Akashi won’t get distracted again if they play Shogi. 

Isshiki was almost near the Shogi room till she felt someone grab her arm. She immediately turned around to see a tall guy with long light grey hair and piercings on his ears. This unknown person grinned down at her cockily as he gripped her arm tighter, causing her to wince a bit. 

“Damn girl, I’ve never seen a cutie like you here before,” He grinned teasingly, bringing his head near her face. 

He continued to inspect her from head to toe, analyzing her as if she’s some kind of display. After doing so, he straightened his body up as he licked his lips. He brought her closer to him by grabbing her waist. 

He cockily said, “You’ve got them shapes in the right places. Say, wanna go on a date? I’ve got those coupon cards for the nearby karaoke bar. What do you say, pretty girl?” 

Isshiki just stared at him blankly—not because she was scared, but because everything is happening so fast to the point she has no idea what to feel first. Don’t get her wrong, she is beyond terrified so she was about to reject him (or maybe kick his balls if he got too persistent) till she saw Akashi, walking towards them while looking at the ground. 

Now, let me tell you this. Isshiki truly is a girl with surprises because as soon as she saw Akashi, she legitimately forgot everything else and focused her gaze on him so she did something that this unknown guy didn’t expect. 

“AKASHIIII!!” She screamed, pushing this unknown man to the wall very roughly to the point you can see his breath marks staining the windows. The unknown man slid down to the ground as his mouth left a trail of saliva going down. 

“Isshiki? What are you doing here?” Akashi’s eyes went wide, seeing her run towards him. 

Akashi was so focused on Isshiki, he didn’t notice the unknown guy in the background. As soon as he did though, he was shocked with the scene. “ Haizaki , what are you doing on the ground against the wall?” 

Isshiki got confused with what the red-haired said so she turned around to see this Haizaki fellow truly on the ground with his head clashing on the wall. She blinked her eyes thrice as she fell in sorrow, “Oops? I didn’t think that I would push him that hard? Welp, he did deserve it for being persistent though.” She thought in her head. 

Akashi sighed in defeat. “Haizaki, get up and go to the infirmary.” 

Haizaki was still conscious enough to answer back. “Y-You’re n-not gonna h-help me, A-Akashi….?” 

Akashi smiled as flowers started to show in his background. “Nope, you got this. Goodbye,” He said as he quickly got Isshiki out of the scene, leaving Haizaki alone and dumbfounded in the hallway. 

As the two were walking down the hallway, Isshiki suddenly burst into laughter, leaving Akashi confused with a startled look. “Just what was that? AHAHA!! Are you actually leaving him there? Just imagine someone just passing by and they would see his ass standing up in the air? The dude’s practically passed out! HAHAH!!” 

Akashi’s eyes quivered once more while looking at her laughing expression. He subconsciously gripped her wrist tighter as they continued to walk. “Do you want to help him though?” He asked, concealing his annoyance. 

“Hell no!! Why would I help someone like him?” Isshiki argued, really didn't want to help the dude as she sighed. 

Akashi chuckled, “Mhm. I guess you got your point.” 

Badump. Her eyes stayed wide as her heart skipped a beat. Now that she’s a bit closer to him than usual, she realized something. She noticed how muscular and broad his shoulders are through his blazer. This caused the illusion of him looking taller, even if they are the same height. She also noticed some veins popping out of his hand. That’s when she realized how warm his hand was on her wrist. 

Her heart skipped a beat again. Isshiki, still practically being a child, has no idea what this feeling was. All she knew is that she started feeling like this when she first went against Akashi to a game of Shogi. 

“Is this what you call competitiveness? I do always feel like I should win when in Shogi. Damn, Akashi really is triggering my inner competitiveness, huh?” Isshiki thought, concluding what she’s feeling at the moment.

Akashi stopped walking, turning his body to her. “Just what were you even doing there? If you are looking for me, just go to the Student Council Office. No one barely goes there, except me to do paper work,” He said, scolding her a bit for being stuck in such a situation with Haizaki. 

Isshiki felt like a child being scolded by her mom. She sighed tiredly, “You sound like my mother, Akashiiii,” She whined playfully, causing the red-haired to twitch in annoyance. 

“OI!” He yelled in frustration. 

That’s when Isshiki started laughing again. Akashi can never understand why she laughs at the most random things. The prodigy of Teiko simply can’t understand Isshii Usagi. 

Isshiki stopped laughing as she tried to compose herself. “Okay! Okay! Okay! Here! I won’t promise, but I’ll try not to do reckless things like that!!” 

Akashi’s going to have a headache soon. Isshiki’s stubbornness and spontaneous behavior will be the cause of his high blood pressure. This is the consequence of trying to understand Isshiki Usagi’s brain. 

“Also! The reason why I was even in that reckless position in the first place was because I wanted to look for you!” Isshiki pointed out with a smile. 

“Why?” He asked. 

“To tell you to meet me at the rooftop!! So I can give your jacket and your Yudoufu!!” 

Akashi’s eyes quivered violently — not in a good way, but in a bad way. Isshiki noticed how he suddenly got quiet which worried her so she tried snapping Akashi back to reality. 

The reason why the red haired reacted violently is because as soon as she gives back the jacket, there’s no more reason for Isshiki to look for Akashi….

“HELLOOOO?? Basketball to Akashi??? Are you thereee??” 

….therefore, Akashi may never see her again.