Archive of Our Own ^beta

Monday, November 5th, 2018

“Is that all you’re gonna eat for breakfast?” Kuroo asks while wolfing down his toast with a speed that Kenma knows he'll never get used to.

Kenma barely acknowledges him, half-nodding at most, focused on peeling his nashi despite his eyes struggling to stay open. It’s early. Way too early in Kenma’s opinion. He should definitely consider reworking his schedule, because streaming on Sundays and going to Bouncing Ball Co. office on Mondays is not doing anything for his tiredness level. 

“That’s not enough,” Kuroo claims, and Kenma notices him staring. 

“It is for me,” Kenma utters, taking a small bite out of his nashi. It's juicy and slightly sweet, perfect for his almost non-existent appetite in the mornings. 

Kenma refrains a smirk when he sees Kuroo rolling his eyes at him. This is nice. Familiar in a way he knew it would be when Kuroo and he finally agreed to move in together, hopefully for good this time. 

They'd been roommates in college, cramped in a dorm room that had seen their gazes wander over each other when they thought the other wasn't looking, their many attempts to confess, the words refusing to fall out of their mouths and, eventually, their already too-long embraces turn into kisses. 

Then Kuroo had graduated. He’d found a job in the Ishikawa Prefecture Volleyball Association and moved to Kanazawa to start his career as a junior consultant. Kenma had been immensely proud of him despite the devastation that came with having to be in a long distance relationship, the missed phone calls and anniversaries, the weariness of coming home to an empty house and holding a cold device to hear Kuroo’s voice instead of being embraced in the warmth of his chest.

It had lasted two years. 

Two years during which Kenma had gained popularity on Youtube, invested his money in the stock market and launched his own company. It had been grueling at times, but also deeply rewarding. And it’s made it possible for him to buy a beautiful apartment in the Shoto area, next to Shibuya, where he’s rented offices for his five employees. Incidentally, the Japan Volleyball Association's premises are also located there. 

He knew when he’d bought it that it would be perfect for him and Kuroo, when the latter would land his dream job at the JVA. 

And it is.

The call had come a month ago. The minute after Kenma had ended his Thursday stream, he’d picked up his phone to Kuroo yelling his name, screaming “it’s official!”. Kenma’s brain had taken a while to catch up before remembering the weary application process Kuroo had been going through during the last months, the resumé and cover letters re-read a dozen times, the preliminary phone calls and technical and panel interviews. He’d sometimes wondered if Kuroo hadn’t mistaken himself and applied to the JAXA instead of the JVA.

But apparently not.

After a month of administrative formalities, Kuroo had started his new job at the JVA, moved away from Kyoto and in with Kenma.

That had been a week ago. A week and three days to be precise. Ten days of living with Kuroo and suffering through his teasing and banter on a daily basis. It’s been really annoying, kinda like when the sun is finally shining on a winter day, warming his skin just a little too much for comfort but he’d still give anything to bask in it a little longer. So- not that annoying actually. 

“One day, I'll finally get you to eat a decent breakfast in the morning,” promises Kuroo, sipping his black coffee. 

“You had no luck for the past 15 years so– I like my odds,” Kenma observes, trying to stifle a yawn.

“16 years,” Kuroo corrects him almost instantly. 

“That works against you,” Kenma lets a grin stretch his lips. 

Kuroo rolls his eyes at him, again, before getting up and kissing his temple. “I’ll be late if I don’t leave in five’. See you tonight?” he asks. 

It’s rhetorical. They both know they’ll see each other tonight and there’s something so deeply comforting about how domestic it feels that Kenma’s heart starts beating just a little faster. 

He nods, perhaps a little too enthusiastically, given the long lock of hair that escapes from behind his ear and almost falls into his tea.

Kuroo smirks. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Thursday, November 8th, 2018 

If there’s one thing Kenma is known for in the streaming world, it’s the diversity of games he plays, from his long-time favorite Dragon Quest, the laid-back Animal Crossing to the more tactical Valorant. He’s been asked many times why he doesn’t stick to one genre of games or one franchise, and his answer has always remained the same: He appreciates the medium as a whole and wouldn’t like restricting himself. In his early days as a streamer, it had cost him followers who would discover him playing one particular game and come back expecting he’d play the same one, again and again. It hadn’t stopped Kenma from exploring new universes though, and he’d ended up being liked and famous for it. 

Like every Thursday, Kenma streams all evening long, for about four hours. He’s chosen Genshin Impact for tonight, because it’s been a long time and some fans have asked him to. He still doesn't talk that much while he's playing, more than in his early days, when he only muttered the bare minimum, but way less than some other streamers. He used to feel insecure about it, but doesn't really care now. He figures that if five million people have decided to follow him despite the fact that he doesn't talk much, then it shouldn't really be an issue in the first place. 

He’s been streaming for almost two hours when he takes a short break to drink some water, while looking at the chat. 

akira35: kodzuken finally remembered to bring water!! 

kodzufan65: hi everyone! i’m sooo late tonight

_{💬 Replying to @akira35: kodzuken finally remembered to bring water!!} 

hana_48: omg you’re right! maybe his voice won’t get so hoarse by the end of the stream

He hides a smile behind the water bottle he’s still holding, of which he’s already drunk a third. It’s true that his voice always tends to get tired towards the end of his sessions, taking rough edges while his throat becomes a little sore. He’s always made a mental note to bring water to his next stream, and always forgotten it the next time. 

Not Kuroo though. Kuroo had knocked on his gaming room’s door a few minutes before he turned on the camera, with a water bottle in his hand and a smile on his lips.

“Just thought you may need this,” he’d say before kissing him briefly. “Good luck with your stream,” he’d added before leaving the room, Kenma barely having time to thank him. 

When Kenma goes through his night time routine after ending the stream, his throat feeling marginally better than usual, he promises himself to make having water nearby a habit. 

Kuroo is still awake, laptop open on his lap, when he joins him in their bedroom.

“You’re still working?” Kenma asks while slipping under the covers, taking the opportunity to stick his cold feet to Kuroo's warm calves.

“Nooo, Kenma! Your feet are freezing”, Kuroo complains, without making any move to get away from him. “And no- your stream was nice,” he adds, putting the laptop on the bedside table.

“You watched?” Kenma can’t keep the faint surprise away from his voice’s tone. Kuroo’s never been the biggest game lover. 

“Old habit,” Kuroo answers, turning towards him. 

Kenma slightly tilts his head, silently inviting him to elaborate. 

“I used to watch all your streams when we were apart,” he admits. “Made me feel closer to you.”

“You never told me,” Kenma says, his eyes scanning Kuroo's face, the angular jawline and the soft messy hair falling on his forehead. He still has acne scars from high school. Kenma remembers that the bangs with which he tried to hide his breakouts certainly didn't help. They’re only faint now. Beautiful like most things that tell a story are.

Kuroo half-shrugs, and opens his arm so that Kenma can settle against his chest. “Tonight’s was really fun,” he changes the subject. “Especially when you almost choked on nothing.”

Kenma groans, mortified at the memory. It's one thing to swallow the wrong way in the confines of your own home, at nearly midnight after a long day, and quite another to do so in front of nearly twenty thousand people. Which he did. 

“Shut up! It’s your fault anyway. You and your stupid water.”

“Hey! At least you weren’t talking like an 80 year old smoker after three hours of streaming!”

Kenma pinches his side in retaliation, but it lacks intention as Kuroo has started petting his hair, and it never fails to make his mind sleepy and his body utterly limp. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Monday, November 12th, 2018 

The Bouncing Ball Co. offices are bustling with a restless energy that is slowly draining Kenma of his will to live. It's a small space he rents in Shibuya in a co-working area, next to other start-ups, comprising an open space, a closed office and a meeting room. Kenma’s usually there on Mondays and Tuesdays and works from home the rest of the week, needing the time to film videos and recharge his batteries away from the vibrant energy of the neighborhood. He doesn't understand how Kuroo can bear to go to the office every morning, when he's usually tired and done socializing by the end of Tuesday afternoon. 

Well, most weeks. It’s only Monday, still early in the afternoon, and all Kenma wants is to go home and curl on the couch with his PS4 Pro. He’d been in meetings all morning, first with his team – this one had gone well, despite how draining it is for him to manage people. He’s not a natural leader like Kuroo is, and doesn’t enjoy solving problems that go beyond a video game or a volleyball court. He enjoys dealing with people's incompetence even less, especially when they've convinced themselves they're especially skilled.

Unfortunately for him, there's no shortage of such people in the tech industry. He’s set up Bouncing Ball Co. to invest in projects he sees as promising, and to launch his own e-sport team. And he likes it. Most of the time.

They’re currently trying to develop merch for his e-sport team before the festive season, but the contractor they hired for the graphic design doesn’t seem to grasp the team's branding concept, because why would he deliver a minimalist pattern in cool tones when the brief specifically mentioned bold designs and red colors? 

Kenma can already feel a headache build behind his eyelids. They’re going to waste so much time and ressources going back and forth with revisions. He knows it’s fine, it’s just merch, and they’d started early in the year to avoid being late even if there were to be complications, but still. 

To Kuro <3 

can’t wait for this day to be over [13:49]

From Kuro <3

what happened? [13:51]

To Kuro <3

people

just [14:02]

people who have way too much to say about how they think things should work but not enough understanding of how they actually do [14:03]

From Kuro <3

ah

i know those…

they’re the worst!! [14:05]

when are you coming home tonight? [14:22]

To Kuro <3

don’t know yet

many things to finish here [14:53]

The morning's meetings have taken longer than he thought, postponing all his tasks. He still has to review and hopefully approve the social media content to be published the following week, and answer a few sponsorship emails. Pushing through the weariness that has seized his body, he immerses himself in the work, figuring that the sooner he's done, the sooner he can go home. 

It's a little over four hours later that he finally slides the keys into the apartment lock, his backpack weighing a ton on his aching back and most of his hair escaping the half-bun he usually sports. When he opens the door, he finds the apartment filled with light and soft music, instead of the darkness and silence that usually greet him. He leaves his shoes on the genkan, next to Kuroo's.

“Kuroo?” he calls while putting on his fuzzy slippers.

“In the kitchen!”

As soon as he enters the kitchen, Kenma is enveloped by a warm, slightly sweet aroma that can only mean Kuroo is cooking something. His boyfriend has already changed into a Bouncing Ball hoodie, from their very first collection. It's ruby red – Kenma remembers the exact shade name from the color chart, as they’d spent hours waffling between ruby, cherry and berry – with the logo embroidered in white. It's simple, but matches the brand's image. Kenma thinks maybe they should have stuck with that instead of trying something different for the holiday season. Whatever. He doesn't want to think about it anymore. 

Kenma rests his forehead against Kuroo’s chest with a sigh, and he doesn’t have to wait long before two strong arms circle his shoulders. Kuroo smells like the caramelized scent of onion slices simmering with the faintest hints of their shower gel, the citrusy expensive one that Kenma bought from a small online store. He smells like home and Kenma’s shoulders sag with the relief of knowing he’s not alone. Someone’s got him.

“I would ask how your day went but-” Kuroo murmurs, stroking Kenma’s back in circular motions.

“Yeah, don’t,” Kenma groans.

He hears Kuroo snort and feel a kiss being pressed on the crown of his hair. 

“I made oyakodon and bought apple pie for dessert,” Kuroo announces next. 

Kenma suddenly realizes how hungry he is. He didn’t have much time for lunch, although he still ate half of a bento box from the convenience store below the offices. “I'd ask you to be my boyfriend if you weren't already.”

That makes Kuroo chuckles, and Kenma can feel his chest vibrate and his arms tighten around him.

“You want me to run you a bath before we eat ?” 

Kenma shakes his head no. “Gonna spiral if I have too much time to think,” he replies, and finally finds the courage to move away from Kuroo.

“Hurry up then!”

Kenma takes care to keep the water lukewarm, so he won’t be tempted to spend more time than necessary under the shower spray. Trying not to replay the day in his head and think about what he could have said or done to make things go smoother, he puts on an old Nekoma sweatshirt and sweatpants. His hair is still a bit damp from the shower, even wet in some areas but it’s warm enough in the house that he won’t get cold. 

Kuroo and two bowls of hot oyakodon are waiting for him in the living room, and as Kenma sinks on the couch, he thinks this day may not be lost after all.  

“Tell me about your day,” he asks while taking a bite of tender chicken.

“You know the project I told you about? The one on the promotion of volleyball and its value to prevent youth isolation ?”

“Mmh?” 

“I think we finally found the first partner schools. I may go on site in a few weeks to meet the coaches and school directors we'll be working with, and if things go well, we'll be able to launch the project at the beginning of next year!” Kuroo tells him excitedly. 

“So what, the goal is to force them to play volleyball and hope they get something positive out of it?” Kenma teases. 

“Nah, it’s to help create positive socialisation experiences and provide young people with a safe and supportive environment and opportunities to build their individual skills, capacities and resources through meaningful engagement in weekly practices,” Kuroo starts reciting what’s without doubt the professional pitch he’s had to repeat over and over again in the last few weeks.

Kenma throws the hair tie he keeps around his wrist at him, for lack of having something harder on hand. Kuroo doesn't even flinch, picking up the hair tie to put it on his own wrist.

“No but seriously- it’s to help kids like you,” Kuroo resumes in a softer tone.

“Like me?”

“You know…kids who would benefit from putting themselves out there, but who don't necessarily have the right people to encourage them to do so, or who lack financial resources,” Kuroo says, putting his empty bowl on the coffee table.

“Or a best friend to drag them outside when they'd rather spend the day playing video games?” 

“Well yeah. Not everyone can be that lucky,” Kuroo adds with a wink.

“I suppose not,” he answers, his tone becoming somewhat rather serious. 

Kenma finishes his bowl in silence, while Kuroo gets up to bring the apple pie. “Still have room for this?” he asks with a smirk.

“Always!” Kenma makes grabby hands at the pie, from which Kuroo is cutting slices. He notices it comes from the bakery opposite their apartment from the JVA offices. 

When they’re both done with the pie, plates discarded on the coffee table, and Kenma’s head has found its way to Kuroo’s lap, he finally relaxes completely.

Kenma lives in an anxious body. He knows it and has – mostly – accepted it. His shoulder will tense, and his head will hurt and his brain will stop caring about his well-being, too focused on what it sees as a threat, whatever it may be – a too crowded street, a self-imposed deadline coming up or even a day filled with incompetent people wasting his time, money and energy. 

But with Kuroo’s hand combing through his hair, and the steady hum of the tv filling the air, Kenma feels like dealing with his anxious body isn’t so daunting anymore. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Wednesday, November 14th, 2018 

Kemna is looking for a new sweater. He doesn’t have many criteria, except for it to be comfortable and in a fabric that wouldn't feel like it’s hooking into his skin. Usually, he finds clothes which meet his requirements in the women's section, as for some reason he can’t quite understand, men’s clothes are typically made in this itchy fabric that feels like every fiber is gripping his skin cells – not that he can understand the very notion of clothes made specifically for men anyway.

Kuroo is somewhere on the same floor, looking for socks – all the ones he has have holes in them and it's high time he replaces them. Kemma is rummaging through the shelves of the women's section of the mall they went to after work. He's got his hands on a pretty lilac sweater when he hears someone coming up behind him.

“Uh excuse me? You’re Kodzuken, right?” someone shyly asks in a soft voice. 

“Yes,” Kenma replies while turning around. He’s now face to face with a girl who must be a year or two younger than him. 

“Oh! Hello! I’m so glad to meet you, I really like your videos!!” she says excitedly, a wide smile reaching her sparkling eyes. 

Kenma never really knows what to answer to that, except what he feels like is a dumb “thank you”. This time is no exception.

It doesn’t seem to deter the girl, who starts gushing about his last stream and the way he’s “always so determined and never gives up a difficult level”. She seems nice, and is fortunately keeping her distance, but Kenma has never felt comfortable with strangers, and it’s not about to change now. So when Kuroo slides behind him, standing so close his chest presses against his back – because for some reason, this man is attuned to his every mood changes – it’s a relief. 

The girl’s eyes widen as she stumbles over her words, but she keeps going on when noticing Kenma’s impassivity. Then she stops, and Kenma can see her hesitate before working up the courage to ask “would it be okay to take a picture with you? It’s totally fine if you say no, I don’t want to impose”.

And Kenma doesn’t necessarily want to. He’s not known to take much time for his fans outside of his streams, and although he’s had many interactions with them over the years, it’s not something he’s ever really gotten used to. But the girl's respect and Kuroo's presence make him confident enough.

“Yeah, sure,” he agrees, placing himself next to the fan. She doesn't try to get closer to him, which he’s thankful for. 

Kurro takes a long look in Kenma’s direction, searching for something he seems to find, as he asks “want me to take the picture?” 

The girl hands him her phone and Kuroo rapidly takes a few pictures. Then he gives it back before encircling Kenma’s waist with his hand, bringing him back against him. The fan’s eyes linger on his arm, but she only bows several times and profusely thanks them for the time and pictures. 

“No problem,” Kenma reassures her. “Can you just- not post anything right away on social media? I’d like to keep my location private.”

“Yes, of course,” she easily agrees before leaving. 

“She was nice,” Kuroo comments once she’s out of earshot. “Can’t say I disagree with the ‘best youtuber’ and ‘most soothing voice to listen to’ part.”

“Oh my god. Shut up Kuro!”

Kuroo obnoxiously laughs at his embarrassment, keeping his arm steady around his waist. Kenma ends up buying the lilac cashmere sweater because it's soft under his fingers and he likes its loose-fitting style. 

True to her words, the fan waits until the next day to tell her story about meeting Kodzuken. It's Kuroo who shows him the post, which has already been retweeted several hundred times, as they both sip cups of coffee on the couch. Kenma takes the phone in hand and starts reading the attached screenshot from a notes application. 

Akari @thekodzukenfan • 15 November

here’s my story about meeting @Kodzuken!! thank you again for taking the time! 

[okay so i was shopping when i saw this blond guy just a few steps away from me. i wasn’t sure it was him at first but he had the same half-bun kodzuken usually sports in his videos so i went up to him and asked if he was kodzuken. he said yes so i told him everything i liked about his videos and i think i forgot half of what i wanted to say but i was really stressed and this was totally unplanned!! he was really sweet tho and thanked me. then i worked up the courage to ask for a picture and this really tall guy with black messy hair took it for me! i think he was kodzuken’s friend or something. then i left after thanking them for taking the time. he was so so lovely and my life is complete!]  

24 replies | 594 retweets | 803 likes

theo @kodzukumquat • 15 November

@thekodzukenfan congrats on meeting him, you’re so lucky!!

1 reply | 0 retweet | 2 likes

ronnie @ronnimpact • 15 November

@thekodzukenfan congrats on meeting kodzuken, he sounds like such a sweetheart!!

1 reply | 0 retweet | 5 likes

gwen @gwenshin • 15 November

@thekodzukenfan do you know who’s the guy who was with him?

1 reply | 0 retweet | 4 likes

Akari @thekodzukenfan • 15 November

@gwenshin no idea but they seemed real close

3 replies | 21 retweets | 34 likes

gwen @gwenshin • 15 November

@thekodzukenfan wdym?

1 reply | 0 retweet | 3 likes

Akari @thekodzukenfan • 15 November

@gwenshin like they were physically close ig? and kodzuken seemed way more comfortable once the guy arrived

2 replies | 17 retweets | 32 likes

Kenma gives the phone back to Kuroo once he’s scrolled through the replies to the initial post. It always makes him feel strange to think that these people are talking about him, that meeting him makes them so happy. He has a real impact on people. He knows it, deep down, but he tries not to think about it too often. It stresses him out and makes him overthink everything he does and says.

“It's cute,” Kuroo comments, running a hand through his hair. It's morning and it’s a complete mess, wild strands of black hair sticking up in every direction. Kenma thinks his comment could easily apply to himself. It is really cute.

“So it doesn’t bother you?” Kenma can’t help but check. 

“What?” Kuroo seems genuinely surprised by his question, head tilted to the side. 

“That they’re trying to know who you are,” Kenma clarifies, gazing carefully at Kuroo. He's always tried to keep his private life to himself, and it always makes him uncomfortable to know that people are as interested in him as his work.

“They have absolutely nothing to work with,” Kuroo reassures him, locking his phone before placing it on the coffee table. “And I wouldn’t mind being associated with you anyway,” he adds. 

“You know I’m not hiding us or anything?” Kenma checks in, voice low. 

“I know you like your privacy, and that’s totally fine with me,” Kuroo replies, and it’s not lost on Kenma that he’s not directly answering his question. 

“But?”

“There’s no 'but',” Kuroo says. “Come here,” he adds, motioning Kenma to straddle his lap. “I know you’re not always comfortable with the more– public part of your job, and the last thing I want is to add to that, okay? We’re doing things your way,” Kuroo continues, one hand on Kenma’s hip and the other tucking a lock of hair behind his ear. 

“Fine,” Kenma relents. For now. “You’ll tell me if you change your mind, right?”

“Yeah, I will,” Kuroo assures him, and something in his voice settles Kenma’s worries. “Give me a kiss now!”

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Friday, November 16th, 2018 

It’s getting cold.

It’s getting cold and Kenma’s working from home today, planning his streams and youtube videos for the next month. He tried turning on the heating, but something must be wrong, because the radiators have been cold all day. He hates it. It's one thing to be cold outside, knowing that a warm home is waiting for him, and quite another to be cold inside his own house, with nothing he can do about it. 

He's gathered up all the blankets he could find to burrow under, but it feels like his very bones are made of ice, and although the blankets help, he's still cold from the inside. He hasn't made much progress on his work today, at least not as much as he would have liked. Typing on a computer with frozen fingers is a difficult task, making him slower than he’s used to. At least he's heard from the graphic designer he'd hired for his e-sports team's Christmas merch. This time, he seems to have understood the brief. At least that is settled. 

He can't wait for Kuroo to come home as he'd probably know how to fix this. Even if he can't, Kenma could at least steal his body heat, which he knows his boyfriend is not in short supply of. But Kuroo is late, for the third time in three days, and Kenma is getting impatient. 

He’s in the middle of answering the graphic designer with a few comments to improve the draft, when he hears Kuroo enter the apartment. It’s only a few seconds later that his boyfriend comes to find him in the living room, raising an eyebrow at the sight in front of him. 

“I didn’t even know we owned so many blankets!” he teases him, shaking his head. 

“It’s still not enough to warm me up right now. Haven't you noticed how cold it is?”

“Why didn't you turn on the heater?” Kuroo asks, kissing his cold lips.

“I tried, but it doesn't work for some reason,” Kenma complains, lips slightly downturned. 

“Have you checked that the heating thermostat is open and set to the right temperature?” Kuroo checks, brows slightly furrowed.

“The what now?”

“Kenma…”

“I didn’t know!” Kenma claims, pulling back the blanket to hide his face.

“How did you live alone for two years? And survived!”

“You always tend to exaggerate things,” Kenma says, voice muffled by the amount of fabric in its way.

“Says the one drowning in blankets,” Kuroo chuckles. 

“Just– turn on the damn thing and come warm me up!”

Kuroo complies, before making his way through the covers to settle into the corner of the couch, where he can stretch out his legs and still have a backrest. Kenma slips between his legs, leaning against Kuroo's torso, and two arms soon close around his waist, while Kuroo kisses his neck. 

“Missed you today,” Kuroo mumbles against his skin.

“Yeah, missed you too,” Kenma whispers, and he can feel Kuroo’s warm breath on his nape, and his arms tightening their hold.

Kenma feels warmer in more ways than one now that Kuroo is here.They stay like that for a while, and Kenma can soon hear Kuroo’s breathing get heavier on his neck, signaling he’s starting to fall asleep. 

“Kuro? You’re gonna hurt your neck if you sleep like this,” Kenma murmurs, jostling him softly.

They shuffle until Kuroo’s head lays in Kenma’s lap, face hidden against his stomach. Kenma manages to send his e-mail to the graphic designer, before discarding his laptop and calling it a day. Kuroo has fallen asleep, judging by his deep, regular breathing and the slight jolts that shake his body from time to time. 

Still, he finds it odd that Kuroo is so tired. It's not like him to take naps after a day's work. It could be the increasingly short, cold days taking a toll on his body. Maybe he could buy some vitamins, it would do them both good.

Kenma gently scratches Kuroo’s nape, and smiles as Kuroo sighs in contentment in his sleep. Cute. Kenma’s probably going to let him sleep for another twenty minutes before they order to eat.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Sunday, November 18th, 2018 

Kenma’s known by his longtime fans for getting easily cold during the winter. He’ll start a stream in nothing but a t-shirt or a light sweater, and end up shivering one hour into whatever game he’s playing. 

This year however, it had only happened once, a few nights back when he’d thought it’d still be warm enough. It wasn’t though, and Kuroo had scolded him, annoyed that “you should take better care of yourself, Kenma, I don’t want you to catch a cold.” Kenma had rolled his eyes at him, but still promised to bring a hoodie next time. 

Of course, he’d forgotten.

Of course, Kuroo had not. 

He'd returned from his Sunday jog just before Kenma slipped away to his streaming room, and passed him a hoodie. It’s the Bouncing Ball one he'd been wearing a few days ago. Kenma had thanked him before putting it on, inwardly congratulating himself on the quality of the product. It is still very soft despite the many washings – Kuroo wears it a lot. 

The hoodie is oversized on his smaller frame, and he rolls up the sleeves to keep his hands free. He's never had very broad shoulders, especially when compared to Kuroo, and the difference has even widened when Kuroo continued to go to the gym while Kenma stopped altogether after quitting volleyball. After a few months, he's noticed his bigger thighs and softer belly, which he doesn’t really mind. Or at all, in fact. In any case, Kuroo wouldn't let him. 

Looking at the chat, he catches a few comments about the hoodie.

kodzufan65: it was about time you remembered to bring a hoodie kodzuken

jjmtx36: it’s bb merch right? is it still in stock?

nkmr_tkm: it looks kinda big on him, no? 

“It’s from the Bouncing Ball permanent collection, yes. It should be back in stock soon, so stay tuned. We’re also working to release a special collection for the holidays if some of you are interested,” Kenma announces, having learned how to casually promote his numerous activities. 

Kenma goes back to his game. From time to time, he can't help but lower his head slightly to inhale the scent trapped in the stitches of his hoodie. He hopes no one notices. But it smells of citrus and home, and he's addicted to the reminder that Kuroo is right there, living with him, and they can share hoodies and fall asleep in the same bed at the end of the day. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Friday, November 23rd, 2018 

The mix of yuzu, shiso and plum salt fills his mouth as Kenma takes a sip of the cocktail he’s ordered. It’s good. Sophisticated and unexpected, it matches the vibes of the bar where they went to unwind after a busy week. 

Sitting across from him, Akaashi’s ranting about a new mangaka’s drafts he’s reviewing, something about how she’s got great ideas for character development but her dialogues lack wit. Bokuto’s listening attentively, and Kenma doesn’t think he’d be more invested if Akaashi was revealing the secret to winning every volleyball match he’ll ever play.

Dim and warm, the light creates an intimate atmosphere, complemented by the hushed chatter of those around them. The room is small, and the tables spaced far enough apart not to make Kenma feel oppressed. Sitting on the banquette, he faces the amber wooden bar, Kuroo's arm draped around his shoulders, grounding him. 

“How about you, Kenma?” Akaashi asks. 

Hearing his name snaps him out of his thoughts, and he notices his friends staring at him.

“He’s asking about your Bouncing Ball projects,” Kuroo whispers in his ear, gently squeezing his upper arm.

“Ah– It’s going well,” he replies. “Had a mishap with one of our contractors for the new merch, but it’s settled now. I don’t have much plans beyond that before the new year,” he adds, shrugging his shoulders. 

“You’re too humble, Kenma!” Bokuto gushes.

“He’s right, your numbers are incredible,” Akaashi adds, nodding in agreement.

“I don’t like to think about it too much. I have to know them for analytics purposes but-” Kenma shrugs again.

“Ah, of course,” Akaashi says, understanding.

“Kuroo’s working on a great volleyball project,” Kenma pipes up, content when the attention shifts to Kuroo. 

“Mhm, it’s about strengthening social cohesion among disadvantaged young people through sports. Well, volleyball in this case. I’ll be going to Kyoto in about two weeks to meet the partners!”

“That’s such a great project! Hinata’s always telling me about how his involvement in volleyball changed his life,” Bokuot exclaims, a broad and genuine smile on his face.

"It's true, he’s always insisted that he wouldn't have been able to afford to go to a private academy,” Kenma adds.

“Yes, it’s very important for public schools to have funds to propose such activities,” Akaashi notes. 

Kenma notices how Kuroo’s eyes are sparkling under the subdued light. He can’t quite be sure of it, but he thinks his cheeks are slightly redder than they usually are.

“Just tell me if you want help with promotion!!” Bokuto proposes. “I’m sure Hinata and Atsumu-kun would gladly help too!”

“We’re still in the planning phase as of now, but thank you, I’ll keep that in mind,” Kuroo replies. 

Kenma's eyes dart to a waitress behind the bar, and her precise movements to prepare a cocktail with a beautiful purple color, from which a sort of white smoke escapes. It looks delicious and Kenma wonders what it would taste like. Perhaps some red fruit, like blackberry or blackcurrant. But that would be disappointing, way too classic. Or maybe something with violet syrup. He remembers tasting something similar the last time they went to–

His gaze suddenly catches the eye of another person, seated on a high stool at the bar. They immediately turn around when they realize that Kenma is staring at them, and it leaves him with that uncomfortable feeling he always gets when he knows he's been recognized. 

It's happening more and more often. Most people don't come to bother him, but he knows anyway. It's the way stares follow him down the street, the double glance he gets when someone looks at him from a distance but isn't quite sure it's him, or even the long, unabashed looks he sometimes gets. For someone who used to hide behind his hair all through high school, it's a wonder he doesn't go into a frenzy every time he goes out. 

In retrospect, it's a success that the tiny twitch of his shoulders and the light pressure on his chest are the only symptoms of his discomfort. Apparently, it's still enough for Kuroo to notice. He looks at him with a raised eyebrow, eyes trained as if ready to catch the slightest change in Kenma's expression. 

Kenma tilts his head towards the person at the bar, and watches Kuroo’s gaze follow his movement. 

“Guys, can we swap places?” Kuroo demands while standing up, leaving them little choice but to agree. 

“Uh- yeah, sure,” Akaashi answers as they change places. 

Kuroo looks back at Kenma, who nods in approval. He can’t see the rest of the room now that he’s on a chair facing the faded gray wall, and he feels his anxiety recede. Kuroo's arm has found its place on the back of the chair, and Kenma could feel it if he leaned against it. 

The rest of the evening passes without a hitch. As they're all very busy and Bokuto is in Osaka most of the time, this kind of get-together is rarer than Kenma would like. They reorder cocktails, because the menu is long and the suggestions are each more tempting than the last, and the rum, pistachio, pineapple and tonka syrup cocktail gives him the eye, but he'd also like to try the vodka, gonxhe, lychee, rose syrup and hibiscus one. He ends up taking the first, while Kuroo takes the second, and they sip them indiscriminately late into the night. 

Kenma feels a little lighter now, giggling at Bokuto and Kuroo's jokes without restraint. He takes off the hoodie he's been wearing, too hot to keep it on over his sleeveless cropped burgundy sweater. Kuroo's gaze wanders over his body when he does, over the belly slightly swollen by the delicious finger foods they’ve been eating. Kenma knows he looks good. 

Kuroo does too. He meets his gaze, which he holds a little too long for it to be innocent, his broad palm lowering from the back of the chair to Kenma's waist, burning the pliant skin beneath his fingers. One of Kenma's hands rests on Kuroo's thighs, low enough not to be indecent but high enough not to be completely innocent either. He soon loses interest in the conversation, mouth parched and hands clammy. 

It's only when they leave the bar that the cold air and insistent stares bring him back to reality. If his long black coat and face mask make him hard to recognize, his blond hair is a clear giveaway of his public persona. 

“Can you wait with me until Kuroo gets back?” Kenma asks Bokuto and Akaashi when they’re on the sidewalk in front of the bar. Kuroo went to the bathroom before they left, and he doesn’t want to wait here alone. 

“Of course,” Akaashi answers, moving slightly closer to him. Bokuto does too, and Kenma immediately feels much better with the two tall figures of his friends towering over him. 

It's only a few minutes later that Kuroo returns, and with him the sense of security that Kenma had been missing. Kenma presses his chest against his back as they say goodbye to their friends, while Kuroo's arms wrap around his chest.

The taxi-ride to their apartment passes swiftly, neon lights from the billboards illuminating Kuroo's face with red, pink and blue hues, and his hand caressing Kenma's thigh.

And when Kenma lays down on their bed that night, it’s to the sight of toned abs and soft hair tickling his neck, the sound of breathless panting and half-suppressed moans, and the feeling of Kuroo’s skin against his lips, warm and sweaty and so undeniably Kuroo that Kenma surrenders to him without the slightest reservation.

The next morning, they wake up to photos of themselves posted on Twitter. Kenma sighs, wondering what’s so interesting about four men standing outside a bar. That’s beyond him. 

Kozuken Updates @TheKodzukenNews • 23 November

[Two blurry pictures of Kodzuken out with friends in Tokyo]

9 replies | 236 retweets | 734 likes

aki @kodzuschild • 23 November

@TheKodzukenNews he looks so small next to his friends

0 reply | 0 retweet | 0 like

Atsu’s fan @msbyenthusiast • 23 November

@TheKodzukenNews omgg that’s bokuto koutarou next to him!!!

0 reply | 0 retweet | 11 likes

har’ @godzuken • 23 November

@TheKodzukenNews isn’t that the same guy from @thekodzukenfan’s story ?

1 reply | 0 retweet | 5 likes

Akari @thekodzukenfan • 24 November

@godzuken @The KozukenNews it’s hard to see for sure, but it could be!

1 reply | 0 retweet | 1 like

har’ @godzuken • 24 November

@thekodzukenfan they do look super close if that’s him

0 reply | 0 retweet | 1 like

It does feel strange to see people wondering about his life, but Kuroo’s kissing the skin at the juncture between his shoulder and neck. So, he’s got more pressing matters to deal with right now.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Tuesday, November 27th, 2018 

Kuroo’s late. Again, Kenma might add.

It’s not the first time this month. It’s not even the first time this week and it’s only Tuesday. And it’s not like Kenma’s a prime example of a healthy work-life balance but he’s actively putting efforts to stop overworking himself. 

The pork and vegetables for the curry he’s preparing are simmering in water. It's one of the only dishes he knows how to cook. The first time Kenma had made it was when Kuroo had been stressed about his university exams and Kenma had watched him eating cup ramen for the fourth night in a row. He’d been so fed up that he’d ended up calling his mom to ask for an easy-to-prepare dish. Kuroo had looked at him wide-eyed and open-mouthed as Kenma had brought him a bowl of homemade curry. He had declared it his favorite dish, even though they’d both known it was salted grilled mackerel.

Kenma still likes to think his curry is not far behind.

Then he's made it again and again, on various occasions, and now dares to say that it's as good as his mother's. 

Kenma’s adding the block of pre-made curry mix to the dish when he hears the door open. It’s only a few seconds later that Kuroo appears in the kitchen door frame.

“Oh. You cooked?” Kuroo notices, eyes dragging on the hot plate.

“Yeah, curry,” Kenma replies while stirring the dish. 

“It smells so good,” Kuroo moans, arms closing around Kenma’s shoulders as he buries his face in his nape. He stays like that for a while, kissing his skin from time to time. 

Kenma lets him, not one to shy away from Kuroo's embraces and displays of affection. When he feels Kuroo's arms loosen slightly, he turns to face him, and notices how the dark bags under his eyes contrast with his paler-than-usual complexion. 

“Long day?” he asks, one hand cradling Kuroo’s face. 

“Just– so busy. I had back to back meetings almost all mornings, and emails from the week-end I still needed to deal with. And then there was an issue with next week’s trip, something about the Kyoto Prefecture Volleyball Association not being available at the same time as the school directors, and I had to act as an intermediary between the two. Oh and the printer fucking stopped working, because it wouldn’t be funny otherwise!”

Kenma keeps rubbing his cheek with his thumb during his whole tirade, and Kuroo closes his eyes when he’s done. 

“‘m just so tired,” Kuroo adds, leaning even more into Kenma’s touch. 

“Mmh– ‘can see that,” Kenma says gently. “Curry’s almost ready, so we can eat and get you to bed, okay?” 

“Sounds good,” Kuroo yawns. “Let me just take a shower first, I feel disgusting.”

“Go now, then,” Kenma encourages while kissing his cheek. 

It's when they're sitting on the sofa, Kenma's crossed legs resting half on Kuroo's thigh, and two bowls of curry steaming in front of them, that he addresses the issue.

“You’re working a lot these days,” he states, voice plain, taking a bite of the dish.

“Yeah– I mean, it’s mostly due to the project that I’m working on, things will calm down in a while,” Kuroo explains, devouring his first serve. 

“You’re sure about that?” Kenma retorts, and his tone sways on the edge of sharpness.

“I don’t know, Kenma,” Kuroo huffs.  “I’m not my own boss like you are, so it’s not in my hands.”

“I just don't think it's right that you have to work overtime almost every day,” Kenma goes on. 

“It’s not every day–”

“Please– it would have been five days in a row if it hadn't been for the weekend,” Kenma chides, and stops eating to look Kuroo in the eyes.

“Can we not do this now–” 

“Why? You’re tired after overworking yourself ?” Kenma can’t help but snark. 

“Kenma–,” Kuroo sighs, shoulders slumping in a way they shouldn’t be allowed to, because it’s almost painful to see Kuroo be anywhere close to the defeated vision he’s currently painting. “You know how much this job means to me,” Kuroo murmurs in a dejected voice, placing his already empty bowl on the coffee table.

“I know,” Kenma reassures him, tracing small patterns on his knee with his fingers. “But how would you react if our roles were reversed?”

“I’d tell you to stop being dumb and come home sooner?” 

“Exactly!”

Kuroo groans, one hand hiding his face. Kenma watches him with a small smile, and great hope that he’ll listen and take better care of himself. Not that he’s not happy to do it in the meantime.

“Want some more curry?” he asks, squeezing Kuroo’s knee. 

“Yes please, it’s delicious!”

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Thursday, November 29th, 2018 

It’s 20:05 and Kenma’s been streaming for about five minutes when he hears a soft knock on the door. At first, he thinks nothing of it. It could be Kuroo dropping something, or Kuroo catching himself on the corner of a piece of furniture – probably their bed, it's happened before. A few seconds later, however, he catches the same noise again, a little louder, and hears the door open.

Now, that’s new. Kuroo’s never interrupted any of his streams, at least since he decided to make it his profession, meaning just after his first five ones. So Kenma excuses himself to his viewers, pauses the game and mutes himself before turning towards Kuroo, half convinced that a pandemic has broken out, or at least, that Kuroo urgently needs first aid.

Kenma watches curiously as Kuroo touches his neck, smiling almost nervously at him. 

“Uh– I think you kept the car keys?” he ends up hinting, remaining on the doorstep. “I would have waited, but I promised ‘Kaashi I’d help him with his new home library,” he keeps rambling while Kenma checks his pockets.

Kenma remembers Akaashi saying something about needing help to pick up his dream home library from the store last friday. Knowing that Bokuto would already be back in Osaka, Kuroo had proposed to help him. 

“It’s okay, here,” he says, handing him the key, from which hang two small keychains, each representing a cat, one black and the other calico. 

“Thank you, Kitten,” Kuroo answers, stepping forward to take the keys before slipping out. Kenma’s gaze softens at the silly nickname, and he watches him close the door carefully, as if trying to make as little noise as possible. 

Kenma gets back to his streaming session. He tries hard to, but there's no ignoring the way the chat went absolutely wild at Kuroo’s intrusion. 

Hana_48: did THAT just happen ?

sxto9: he’s living with someone ???

kurosawa_ren: omg who was that !!

kodzufan65: i need a lip reading like NOW

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Thursday, December 6th, 2018 

Kuroo left for Kyoto on Tuesday morning. It's been two days, and Kenma is already feeling his absence. It’s hitting him hard. 

It's coming home on Tuesday evening after a day at the office to find the apartment empty. It's not so unusual, given Kuroo's long working days of late. But it's knowing there's no one to wait for. 

It's ordering food, the delicious tonkatsu from the restaurant around the corner, but knowing that it won't taste the same as usual. How could it when there's no one to share it with?

It's not being able to reach the mugs in the top shelves because Kuroo insisted on putting them there and that “it’s fine if you can’t reach them Kenma, I'll get them for you.”

It’s finding it hard to calm his anxiety. He manages it anyway, because he's been perfecting the art for years and if he used to be dependent on Kuroo, he doesn't need him anymore. He still wants him though.

It’s streaming longer than usual, because there's no one waiting for him to come to bed. It’s his fans noticing that it’s been a long time since he’s pushed through his yawns and kept playing despite his evident tiredness.

It's falling asleep at night without Kuroo's skin against his, without Kuroo's arms encircling his waist, without Kuroo's warmth around him. It's waking up in the morning and feeling cold. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Friday, December 7th, 2018 

Kuroo returns home about an hour after night has fallen on Tokyo. Kenma’s felt restless all day, unable to concentrate for more than ten minutes at a time. He forgets all about it, however, when Kuroo finally opens the door and he flings himself into his arms. Kuroo drops his small suitcase, arms engulfing Kenma in a hug with an “Oof Kitten, warn a man!” and a kiss on the top of his head, and on his temple, and on his cheek, and then they kiss at last, Kuroo's chapped lips freezing against his. Kenma doesn't care. He's glad to warm them up. 

Shortly afterwards, they find themselves in the bathtub, surrounded by a citrusy scent and light bubbles. The water is warm, probably too hot for his sensitive skin, but sitting between Kuroo’s legs, Kenma doesn’t mind. His boyfriend is washing his hair, rubbing his scalp in small circles. It makes Kenma’s eyelids droop a little, and his breathing slows down. They have a whole routine by now. At least, Kuroo does. Kenma just humors him. 

“I'm gonna cut them short someday,” Kenma mumbles while Kuroo’s applying the second shampoo. 

“No you won't,” Kuroo replies with such conviction that Kenma is tempted to insist just to make him react. 

“I may. It’s a pain to keep them healthy.”

“And who takes care of it anyway?” Kuroo retorts, and Kenma can hear the smirk in his voice before he feels him gently nibbling his ear.

He’s not wrong. Kenma doesn't think he's washed his own hair once since Kuroo moved in. 

“How was your trip?” he asks, leaning back against Kuroo’s chest.

“Nuh-uh.” Kuroo pushes him gently so that he leans forward. “Can’t access your hair if you lean against me,” he says before rinsing it, taking care not to get shampoo in his eyes. “Successful I think?” he continues. “It was a good thing to bring all the partners together. We presented the project to parents at three different high schools, and some of them seemed interested…And we managed to reassure a number of school principals who were still unsure about the– financial implications,” Kuroo explains while applying some kind of mask to its tips.

“That’s great,” Kemma congratulates him. 

Kuroo gently pulls him by the shoulders so he can rest against him. He runs his fingers against his sides and it tickles a little, not enough for him to squirm under his touch but just the right amount for goose bumps to bloom on his skin.

“Mmh– don’t like being away from you though.” Kuroo adds, kissing his shoulder.

“It was only a few days,” Kenma says in a deadpan voice. 

“He says, even though he called ‘Kaashi two days ago, whining that ‘we'd just moved in together’,” Kuroo teases him, pinching his side.

Kenma bats his hand away. “What? You’re not supposed to know that!” he grumbles. 

“In his defense, he didn't tell me directly. But he did tell Bokuto.”

Kenma groans. “Ugh I hate this friend group.”

Kuroo laughs, raucous and genuine, and starts rinsing his hair after kissing his shoulder again. Kenma's fingers are already crumpled and he knows there is still at least one step left in Kuroo’s routine.

He thinks he’ll be able to put up with it though.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Saturday, December 8th, 2018 

“Wanna go home Kenma?”

Kuroo’s hand gently squeezes his own in his pocket, and Kenma tries to anchor himself in the feeling. A huge Christmas tree stands tall in front of them, and if Kenma could appreciate its beauty the first time they walked past, its millions of blue lights are now minutes away from giving him a headache. 

Christmas shopping is supposed to be fun, according to Kuroo. Kenma can admit that the first hour have been enjoyable. They’ve wandered the streets looking at the Christmas decorations, the garlanded trees and the sound and light shows. After many trips back and forth between different stores, they’ve even managed to find a present for his mother, digital binoculars with thermal vision so she can track birds' nocturnal migration or spot species hidden in vegetation, and for Kuroo's grandpa, a bean to cup coffee machine with a brewing unit. 

What has been less enjoyable is the festive music playing incessantly, the repeated honking of horns and the noise of people clumped together in the streets, in front of stores, everywhere, and the sound of their walking, chattering and rustling bags. 

Kenma nods approvingly at Kuroo’s question, pressing himself against his side. He's wearing a heavy black coat over a sweater, and a matching beanie from which his hair falls in scattered strands over his shoulders. He's a little overheated, but doesn't know if it's because he's starting to feel overwhelmed or if he's underestimated the temperature. 

“Okay, let's get a taxi,” Kuroo tells him, rubbing the back of his hand with his thumb. 

Kenma is about to agree when he meets someone’s eyes a few feet away from him and–

“Hello! I’m sorry– you’re Kodzuken, right? Would you mind taking a picture with my son? We both love your videos!” a young woman exclaims in a cheerful voice.

Yeah, he’s seen that coming.

She’s not very tall, and is smiling warmly. Standing next to her is a young boy who can't be more than twelve. He's half-hiding behind his mom, and looks at Kenma with eyes wide with admiration. 

Kenma clutches Kuroo’s hand. Hard.  

“That’s really nice of you to say, but we're in a bit of a hurry,” Kuroo begins, voice hesitant. 

Kenma’s still squeezing his hand, just a step away from hiding behind him. He’s grateful Kuroo’s taking charge of the interaction, because the young boy’s big and now disappointed doe eyes kind of reminds him of Bokuto’s when he’s having a down day, and Kenma’s not sure he wouldn’t give in to the fan’s desire. Even if he feels drained and certainly not up to take pictures. And really doesn’t want to leave Kuroo’s side at the moment. 

“Wanna know a secret?” Kuroo asks the boy in a gentle voice. “Kodzuken here’s planning a loooong stream right before Christmas! And he’ll only play his biggest fans’ favorite games! Wanna tell him what’s yours?” 

A smile has now returned on the fan’s face as he answers “Minecraft!” in the most enthusiastic way. 

“That’s great! He’ll add it to the programme for sure!” Kuroo proclaims.

“Yeah– Thank you so much for watching,” Kenma manages to say before they bid their goodbyes. 

Kenma waits for the two of them to be far enough before loosening his grip on Kuroo’s hand. His boyfriend puts his arm around his shoulders, holding him close.

“I was not planning to do that,” Kenma grumbles. 

“Yeah well– I guess you are now ?” Kuroo sheepishly grins while hailing a taxi. “I’m sorry,” he adds. “I panicked, he was looking at you with those big sad eyes, just like–”

“Bokuto’s ?”

“Yes!” 

Once in the taxi, Kenma buries his head in Kuroo's neck, breathing in his familiar scent. A slight headache pounds against his temples, but he thinks it will pass once he gets some peace and quiet. Kuroo massages the back of his neck, and it's so relaxing that he doesn't even feel his eyes closing and his mind drifting away.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Sunday, December 9th, 2018 

Hana @simplyhana • 08 December

I met @Kodzuken with my son today!! He didn’t have time to take photos but he told us some cool things were about to happen in December !!

10 replies | 478 retweets | 1,7k likes

ren @kodzuren • 08 December

@simplyhana pls do tell us more

0 reply | 0 retweet | 3 likes

Emi @emisplaying • 08 December

@simplyhana omgg you’re so lucky! how is he irl ?

1 reply | 0 retweet | 1 like

Hana @simplyhana • 08 December

@emisplaying Quite reserved actually ? /neu It was mostly the guy he was with who talked to us!

2 replies | 2 retweets | 9 likes

Emi @emisplaying • 08 December

@simplyhana what guy?

1 reply | 0 retweet | 1 like

Hana @simplyhana • 08 December

@emisplaying No idea! But he led the entire conversation, and was really kind to my son! Kodzuken didn’t say much, but he thanked us for watching his videos at the end /pos

3 replies | 0 retweet | 5 likes

🌼 @kodzukindness • 08 December

@simplyhana @emisplaying wait was it this guy ?

[quote of @TheKodzukenNews’s tweet from 23 November]

2 replies | 5 retweets | 18 likes

Hana @simplyhana • 08 December

@kodzukindness @emisplaying Yes, I think so!

2 replies | 0 retweet | 11 likes

Kenma closes the tab with a sigh. Discussions about his private life have been more and more frequent over the last few weeks, and it’s making him uncomfortable. If he didn’t have to promote his streams and Bouncing Ball’s activities on his social media, he would have gladly uninstalled the applications. 

He’s going to start streaming in a few minutes, and has his water bottle and hoodie within reach, per Kuroo’s instructions. He sighs again, thinking he’d rather be on the couch with Kuroo than in his home office right now. While Kenma does enjoy streaming, the fact that it’s first and foremost a job has rarely been so striking.

He’s playing Dragon Quest tonight, one of the first games he’s streamed on twitch. He loves it. But tonight, he's having trouble showing any enthusiasm. The chat is flooded with comments that have absolutely nothing to do with the game, either directly or indirectly, and even if it only concerns a small proportion of his viewers, it's enough for him to notice. 

kodzufan65: GUYS!! what do we think about tall handsome guy being the person who lives with him?

_{💬 Replying to @kodzufan65: GUYS!! what do we think about tall handsome guy being the–}

hana_48: seems like they're always together lately so ig it'd make sense

ichxka978: i’m thinking he lives with his gf 

krs563: who are y’all even talking about

_{💬 Replying to @ichxka978: i’m thinking he lives with his gf} 

kodzufan65: he could also be gay just saying

_{💬 Replying to @kodzufan65: he could also be gay just saying}

ichxka978: so weird of you to assume his sexual orientation 

_{💬 Replying to @ichxka978: so weird of you to assume his sexual orientation}

hana_48: like you didn’t just say he lived with his gf ??????

One look at the chat is enough for a pressure to build in his chest. He interrupts the game to take a sip of water and pull on his hoodie. It smells of tonkatsu, the dish Kuroo has prepared for them this evening, and Kenma feels his swirling thoughts calm down. He answers a few of his fans’ questions, deliberately ignoring anything not directly related to the game he's playing or Bouncing Ball's activities.

He ends the stream half an hour earlier than usual, without giving too many explanations. His viewers have picked up on his sullen mood, as evidenced by some of the comments. Most people have been kind and told him to rest. He chooses to ignore the others.

When Kenma goes to bed that night, he crawls between Kuroo’s legs, leaning against his chest. Kuroo absent-mindedly kisses his shoulder and finishes typing something on his phone. 

“You’re done early,” Kuroo notices, and puts his phone on the bedside table.

“Mmh,” Kenma mutters, still brooding over the comments in the chat. 

“What’s going on, Kenma ?” Kuroo asks, attuned to his surly mood.

“It’s nothing,” Kenma groans against his chest.

“Wanna tell me more about ‘nothing’ ?” Kuroo coaxes him to talk, stroking his back.

“People.”

“You’re gonna have to be a bit more specific,” Kuroo chuckles, kissing his other shoulder.

“In the chat– they were wondering about you. Us.”

“I’m sure they’ll move on to something else if you keep ignoring them,” Kuroo tries to reassure him.

“I don’t know about that. They can be very nosy.”

“So what do you wanna do ?”

“I’m starting to think– maybe we could go public? Would you be okay with that ?” Kenma asks against Kuroo’s skin. He’ll never understand how his boyfriend sleeps shirtless even as temperatures drastically drop.

“I didn’t think you would. You didn’t seem keen on the idea last time we talked about it,” Kuroo explains.

“I’d prefer to keep my private life– private. But I’d rather do it on our terms than have them dissect every photo taken without our consent and speculate about our relationship when–”

“You’re getting worked up, Kenma,” Kurro cuts him, and Kenma notices how tense he is. He takes a deep breath, trying to relax. “It’s just– I really don’t like this.”

“I know. Wanna sleep with the weighted blanket tonight?” 

“Mhm. ‘think it’d help,” Kenma replies.

“Let me grab it then,” Kuroo says while disentangling himself from Kenma.

Kenma watches him take the blanket from the cupboard before spreading it out on their bed, and he feels himself settle under the added weight. 

“And to answer your question,” Kuroo continues once he’s back in bed, “I wouldn’t mind going public as long as you’re fine with it.”

“Okay. I’ll think about it then,” he sleepily concludes the conversation, yawning.

Kuroo turns off the light and starts playing with his hair, massaging his head in a way that makes him let out the tiniest whines, until he falls asleep.  

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Thursday, December 13th, 2018 

kuroo_tsr1: don’t forget to stay hydrated <3

ilovekodzuken563: can you tell us more about what you’re planning to do in december ?

hana_48: what made you smile like that kodzuken ?

yukiandco: omggg i almost forgot you were streaming 2night !!

kuroo.tsr1 what about a 12h stream of playing minecraft ? ;)

Kenma can’t help but smile when he sees Kuroo’s comments in the chat. It’s been a while since his boyfriend has done so, usually too busy to actively watch Kenma’s streams – he may put them in the background while he’s doing something else, but he’s usually not paying attention to what Kenma’s playing. 

“I just planned a little something to thank you guys for watching my streams. I’ll tell you more about it soon,” he says to answer the fan’s question. He doesn’t have much planned yet, but he's thinking of doing a charity stream, alternating between game time and chatting with the viewers. He'll have to look into finding an association for a cause he likes, but that shouldn't be a problem.

Kuroo keeps commenting throughout his live – he's playing Animal Crossing tonight, so it's pretty relaxed and he has time to watch the chat and talk to the fans a bit. It's fun, and he's in a great mood thanks to Kuroo. At around 23h, Kuroo stops commenting. Kenma doesn't think much of it, as he's probably gone to bed, taken a shower or something. Still, he finishes the stream a little early because he misses his boyfriend, whom he hasn't seen since the morning, and what's the point of being self-employed if you can't bend the rules now and then?

“Kuroo?” He calls as he enters the living room, his eyes scanning the room until they stop on the sleeping form of his boyfriend, laying on the couch. 

Kuroo’s phone is abandoned next to him, still displaying Kenma’s stream, a few comments still coming in the chat. Cute. Kenma snaps a picture, because a sleeping Kuroo with his mouth half open just can’t end up in the void, before putting a hand on his shoulder. He’s about to wake him up when he notices the slight flush on his cheeks, and roughly checks his temperature with a hand on his forehead. He’s a bit hot. Not dramatically, but maybe letting him sleep a little longer wouldn't be a bad idea. 

He rolls his eyes when he notices Kuroo’s still wearing his work clothes. How taking them off isn’t the first thing he does when coming home, Kenma would never understand. He can see the appeal of being nicely tailored to go to the office, even though it’s a concept he’s only starting to grasp, despite Kuroo’s long and numerous explanations. But not at home. He’s loosening his belt and removing his already lax tie, hoping to make him more comfortable, when he senses him waking up.

“Kenma? You finished your stream?” Kuroo asks groggily, his eyes still closed. 

“Mmh. You watched?” Kenma replies, kneeling next to the couch.

“Just wanted to see you,” Kuroo answers, stretching his legs with a wince.

Kenma chuckles softly, combing through Kuroo’s messy bangs. “How are you feeling?”

“Fine. Just a little out of it,” Kuroo mutters, stifling a yawn.

“Yeah, you don’t look so good,” Kenma agrees.

“And here I thought I looked dashing.”

Kenma shakes his head, amused. “You should go to bed, I’ll bring you something to eat.”

“But I’m real good here,” Kuroo complains in a whine.

“You’re shivering Kuro,” Kenma retorts, voice stern. “C’mon, you’ll feel better in bed.” 

He watches Kuroo grunt his way to their room, and orders two servings of miso soup before joining him.

“I ordered miso soup. You’re hungry?” he asks while sitting on the edge of the bed on Kuroo’s side.

“Not much. But my stomach’s not bothering me,” 

“That’s good, at least. You should have told me you weren’t feeling well, I wouldn’t have streamed tonight,” he adds, voice disapproving.

“It’s nothing, Kenma,” Kuroo rolls his eyes.

“It’s not. I would have taken care of you.”

“You’re doing it now.”

“It’s super late! You should have been asleep by now,” Kenma argues. 

“Hey, it’s okay. Just a light fever. I’ll be fine tomorrow,” Kuroo reasons, but the pallid hue of his skin doesn’t reassure Kenma.

“Yeah well, you’re staying home tomorrow,” Kenma declares, tone definitive.

“You know I have to go to the office,” Kuroo points out.

“No.”

“Kenma–”

“No! You’ve been pushing yourself and look where that got you. I’ll call the office myself if you don’t want to,” Kenma interrupts him.

And this has the merit of silencing Kuroo, as he knows that Kenma hates calling people he doesn't know. He usually makes Kuroo do it.

“Okay. I’ll call in sick,” Kuroo concedes. “At least for the morning.”

“You’re impossible.”

Kuroo sticks his tongue out at him, but it lacks effect as his eyes are glazed and his skin a little flushed. 

Then, ​​Kenma brings back the two bowls of soup the delivery man has just brought, as well as medicines to help with Kuroo’s fever. He hands everything to Kuroo, who starts eating slowly. Kenma supposes it’s a good sign.

“Have you found something to do for your event?” Kuroo asks in between two spoonfuls of soup. 

“You mean the one you basically forced me to do?” Kenma smirks with amusement. “Yeah, I’m gonna do charity stream. I’m still thinking about which organization I'm going to donate the money to, but I thought of the Japan Animal Welfare Association when I was playing Animal Crossing,” he explains.

“That’s a good idea!”

“Mhm– Plus, it’s winter and shelters are almost full. So I guess they could use the money,” Kenma thinks aloud.

“We could take a few with us,” Kuroo hints.

“We’re not an animal shelter Kuroo,” Kenma says, although the idea is quite tempting.

“Just one tiny cat? Or maybe two?” Kuroo coaxes him. 

“I mean, I guess one or two cats wouldn’t hurt”

Kuroo visibly perks up at his answer, smiling broadly despite how tired he looks. He hands back the bowl of soup after eating about half of it, and Kenma figures it’s better than nothing.

“I've been thinking of what we talked about last Sunday all week,” Kenma adds while discarding the bowls. “You know, about going public.”

“Mmhm?”

“I think I want to do it,” he states, getting under the cover and turning on his side to look at Kuroo. 

“Yeah?”

Kenma shrugs his shoulders. “I love you. And that’s like– the most interesting thing there is to know about me. So it only makes sense for people to know it too.”

“Kenma–,” Kuroo chokes out, and shifts to bury his head in Kenma’s neck.

“Aww are you going to cry?” Kenma mocks him tenderly, kissing his clammy temple. 

“It’s the fever, okay,” Kuroo grumbles.

“Sure, Kuro, sure.”

“I love you too, you know.”

“I do,” Kenma whispers, before rolling on his back. Kuroo settles against his chest, and soon falls asleep, his snoring filling the room. Kenma remains awake for a long time, stroking his back with lazy movements and listening to his loud breathing and steady heartbeat.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Friday, December 14th, 2018

[Photoset with three photos. The first one is Kuroo and Kenma as children – Kenma is playing something on his console, while Kuroo is watching above his shoulder. The second photo is the two after a Volleyball match, Kenma lying exhausted on the floor, beaming at Kuroo who’s standing tall over him, a shocked expression on his face. The third photo is a candid one of the two holding hands on a beach]

Liked by kuroo.tetsurou, msbybokuto, and 615, 341 others

kodzuken Thank you for always being by my side ❤️ 

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kuroo.tetsurou ❤️

akaashi.kj Proud of you guys 🤍

hinatamsby wowww finally!!! been waiting for this since forever!!! so happy for youuuuu!!!! 🧡🧡🧡

kodzuken_luver oh my god!! oH mY gOd ????

nao.kwsk lowkey wish i had what you guys have

hasegawa_93 he has a boyfriend ??

kageyama.tobio 💙💙💙

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Thursday, December 20th, 2018 

Kenma knows, instantly, that the person has recognized him. Fans usually think they’re slick. They’re not though. 

Kenma sighs and adjusts the cap he’s wearing so that it hides his face a little better. The convenience store he’s at is not very crowded, which is exactly the reason why he’s gone in the middle of the afternoon. Unfortunately, two young men are currently staring at him, apparently wondering if he’s Kodzuken – they’re barely whispering, which is why he can hear his nickname from a distance. Rude. 

Trying to ignore them, he goes back to hesitating between two flavors of cup ramen – he knows Kuroo hates the spicy one that's been giving him the eye. He’s thinking about taking both when someone’s hand pats him on the shoulder. He froze briefly before turning around. Sure enough, the two young men are standing right behind him. 

“You’re Kodzuken, right? Can I take a picture with you?” the one who’s patted him on the shoulder asks, an excited smile on his face. 

“I don’t really have time,” Kenma tries to excuse himself, not in the mood to stop for pictures. He hasn't made any effort with his appearance, not expecting to bump into anyone, and he doesn't really want his neglected look to be plastered all over the Internet.

“C’mon, it’ll only take a few seconds!” the person insists, much to Kenma's dismay. He's never been confronted with someone who couldn't take a hint when he refused photos. At least, not without Kuroo by his side to make them figure it out for him.

And for all Kenma’s progress with his anxiety, he still doesn’t do well with confrontation. Especially when he doesn’t know the person in front of him,  when he can't gauge what their reaction will be like, when he's not sure he's safe. So, he gives in. 

Two cup ramens in hand, he moves to stand next to the fan, keeping a safe distance from him. He doesn’t try to argue, doesn’t even sigh. He just does it, and hopes it’ll be quick. 

“Can you take off your mask? We can’t really see it’s you otherwise,” the guy requests. 

Kenma lowers his face mask. Feeling particularly exposed, he quickly looks around, hoping no one else will notice him. Suddenly, the guy puts an arm around his shoulder, standing so close their sides touch. 

Kenma stops breathing. The touch just feels so wrong, like the guy has pushed the fabric of his sweater into his skin, and it’s now clawing at him. He hates it. 

It’s only a few seconds later that the fan lets him go to check the photo his friend has taken. It feels like much longer.

“Well, you could at least smile, no?” he complains, looking at Kenma with one eyebrow raised, like he genuinely can’t understand why he doesn’t make more of an effort. “I mean, it’s part of your job too…Can we take another one ?” he continues. 

Without even waiting for Kenma to agree, he returns to stand next to him. Wraps his arm around his shoulders. Again. Kenma feels his lips curl into a grimace, as if his body had understood what to do to be safe before his mind.

Kenma stands frozen.

“Aah that one’s better! ‘t was great meeting you Kodzuken! Hope you play Call of’ again soon, Animal Crossing last week was a bit boring!” 

He stands frozen as the guy checks and approves the second picture, stands frozen when the guy practically insults his work, and stands frozen still as the two guys leave the convenience store, leaving him with his face mask pulled down, one hand full of two cup ramens. Breathless.

It’s only when they’re out of sight that he feels his pounding heart rate. Leaving the cup ramens behind, he reaches for his phone and calls the emergency number saved there. There’s no answer. The call goes to voicemail. He calls Kuroo a second time. Still no answer. He thinks about trying a third time, but knows it will only stress him further if Kuroo doesn’t answer. So he tries calling Akaashi. Almost thinks the line is going to voicemail. But then, he hears his friend’s voice. 

“Hi Kenma!”

“Can you– I need– Talk to me please?” he manages to say, panting.

“Uh– Yes, of course,” Akaashi replies. “Uh– You know the home library Kuroo helped me set up a few weeks ago? I’m almost done organizing it! I sorted the books by genre and it turns out I really like true crime? I had no idea I had that many. Ah, and of course, there’s half of it dedicated to mangas. You should come by one of these days, I can lend you a few of them.”

Now that he has Akaashi’s voice to focus on, it’s easier for Kenma to get his breathing under control. “Yeah. ’sounds good.”

Fortunately for him, he’s not far from home – it’s only a five minute walk. 

“Right? And uh– Bokuto will be home for the holidays so it’d be nice if the four of us could meet a few times. Mhm…I may also get a promotion at work. There’s another editor competing for the same post, and she’s really good so..I don’t know. Nothing’s done yet.”

“You’re really good too ‘Kaashi.”

“Thanks. Hope my managers will agree. Uh– Are you okay Kenma?

“Better. Almost home. Can you stay on the line?”

“Of course.”

Akaashi tells him about Bokuto’s and his’ holidays plans, and soon enough, Kenma finds himself opening the door of their apartment. He sighs heavily.

“Are you home? I don’t hear the street’s noise anymore.”

“Yeah, just arrived,” Kenma answers while taking off his coat. 

“Do you want to talk about what happened?” Akaashi asks.

“Met a fan. It didn’t go well.”

“How so?”

“Really entitled and rude? Kinda pushy too,” Kenma explains. 

“But– You’re sure you’re okay?” 

“Mhm…Still a bit on edge I think?” he answers truthfully. 

“Is Kuroo there?”

“No, still working. I tried calling him but– I don’t know, ‘must be in a meeting,” Kenma sighs. He wouldn’t mind Kuroo being there with him. 

“Ah. I can stay on the line if you’d like?”

“You don’t mind?”

“Not at all.”

They’re both silent for a while, and Kenma takes the opportunity to get comfortable. Still bothered by how the clothes he’s wearing feel on his skin since the guy touched him, he changes for a pair of old sweatpants and one of Kuroo’s t-shirts. Then he’s reminded he’s supposed to stream tonight when passing in front of his office’s door. 

“I’m thinking of canceling the stream tonight,” he admits to Akaashi. 

“I think that’s a good idea,” he agrees. “You were pretty shaken up earlier,” he adds.  

“Sure it doesn’t look unprofessional?”

“Kenma, you’re streaming for 8h on Sunday! I’m sure everyone will understand even if you don’t give the real reason why you’re canceling!” 

“Right,” he decides, helped by the fact Akaashi – the picture of professionalism – agrees with him. He sends a tweet to excuse himself to his viewers, and notices how his shoulders relax once he’s done. Then he texts Kuroo. 

To Kuro <3 

call me back when you can

i’m fine dw [16:49]

He stays on the phone with Akaashi for about forty more minutes before receiving an incoming call from his boyfriend. He excuses himself to his friend before answering Kuroo.

“Kenma? What’s going on? Are you–,” Kuroo questions him, worry evident in the way his voice slightly quivers. 

“I’m good. I’m fine now, I promise.”

“What do you mean ‘now’? Where are you?” Kuroo hurriedly asks. 

“I’m home. I’ll tell you. But you don’t have to worry, I’m perfectly fine, okay?” Kenma tries to reassure him. 

“Okay,” he concedes. “I’m leaving now. I’ll be home as soon as I can,” he adds, still sounding concerned. 

“‘kay. See you there.”

He hangs up before being reconnected with Akaashi.

“Kuroo’s coming home,” he announces, relieved. 

“That’s good. I bet he was all worked up.”

“Kinda, yeah,” Kenma snorts.

“‘Always amazed me how the chillest guy out there could go into a frenzy as soon as you got involved,” Akaashi chuckles. 

Kenma snorts again, fondly thinking of his boyfriend. “Yeah, he cares a lot,” he admits in a softer voice than intended. 

“Understatement of the century, but yes, he does.”

A short silence punctuates their conversation, and Kenma feels particularly grateful to his friend, for the way he came to his rescue without question, choosing to help first and understand later. 

“Thank you for this afternoon.”

“Of course,” Akaashi answers. 

After hanging up, Kenma doesn't wait long before hearing Kuroo's footsteps on the stairs. He comes up to the entrance and practically throws himself into his arms when the door opens.

Kuroo catches him with ease, as someone with over ten years' practice would, caging him in the best way possible, and buries his nose in his hair. 

“What happened? I was in a meeting and then I saw your missed calls and that you canceled your stream? God, I was so scared,” Kuroo tells him, breathless, as if he'd run up the stairs.

“I’m good, I’m fine,” Kenma says. Cheek pressed against Kuroo’s chest, he might just be. 

Kuroo straightens to look at him, and his hazel eyes scan his body, as if checking for signs of Kenma being hurt. He releases his breath when he finds none, and closes the door before removing his shoes and coat. Kenma simply watches him do it, leaning against the wall. 

Then Kuroo takes his hand and leads him to the couch, where he settles down before beckoning Kenma to sit on his lap. The streamer straddles him as Kuroo tucks a lock of blond hair back behind his ear.

“So?” he prompts, gaze still clouded with concern. 

Kenma sighs. He’s looking at his hands, resting on Kuroo’s chest. They’re red from the cold and dry in some spots. “I was in a convenience store when I saw this guy,” he starts. “I knew he’d recognized me. Then he asked for a picture– didn’t even say hello, or anything really,” he recalls. “I tried telling him that I didn't have time, but–,” Kenma half shrugs, gaze still fixated on his hands. There’s this dry patch in between his middle and ring fingers. 

“But?” Kuroo asks gently.

“I guess he wasn’t gonna take no for an answer? ‘just said it wouldn’t take long and yeah…,” Kenma continues. “Then he just– put his arm around my shoulder? And– it wasn’t even– he didn’t– but you know I am about touch, and…,” stammers Kenma.

“I know,” Kuroo says softly. “It’s not your fault. He shouldn’t have done that.”

“Mhm…And he wasn’t happy about the photo, I guess ? ‘said I wasn't smiling enough or something– so we took another.”

“What an asshole,” Kuroo fumed, starting to run his hands on Kenma’s sides. 

Kenma is suddenly brought out of his contemplative state by the unpleasant sensation of a feather-like touch. He stops Kuroo's hands by covering them with his own, and his boyfriend seems to understand immediately what he needs, as he squeezes his waist with his large hands, the deep pressure feeling extremely soothing.

“Better?”

“Yeah,” Kenma confirms, and looks at Kuroo’s face, the clenched jaw and the slight frown. “Then he said something rude about how my last stream was boring and left,” he finishes as Kuroo rubs deep circles into his flesh.

“Right,” he seethes. “Okay,” he says as he closes his eyes. Kenma can see his efforts to keep his anger at bay, for his sake.

“I called you afterwards, and then Akaashi. He’s been great– ‘talked me down from the anxiety and stayed on the line almost until you got home.”

“I was presenting at the meeting, so my phone was on silent and I didn't check it until it was over,” Kuroo explains, apologetically. 

“It’s fine. Really Kuro. I just want to forget about it.”

Kuroo coaxes him to get closer, and Kenma knows it’s as much for Kuroo’s sake as his own, so he lets himself be hugged tight against Kuroo’s chest. They bask in each other's presence for a while, Kuroo sometimes holding him tighter until he releases his hold – it only adds to the pressure, which feels incredibly calming to Kenma. 

“You’re sure you’re okay?” Kuroo whispers after about twenty minutes of silence.

“Yes? I’m not sure how to explain– I think my body’s still processing but I don’t have any anxious thoughts or second guessing or anything,” he tries to clarify. 

“Okay. Good. I still hate that this happened to you.”

“Yeah,” Kenma says as he straightens up, one hand on Kuroo’s cheek. “I think I’ll address it, maybe in a video. But for now, I’m just glad to be home with you,” he murmurs, inviting Kuroo to lower his head so he can kiss his nose, “and that we’re both safe,” he continues, kissing his forehead and feeling the beautiful scarred skin under his lips. He kisses him there a second time for good measure, before looking for Kuroo’s lips, pressing softly against them, and then deeper, until he feels Kuroo open his mouth and relax against the couch, surrendering to him, like a dam giving way under the pressure of white water when winter slowly warms into spring.

And as they slowly map out each other's bodies, kiss after caress after nibble, they forget all about cold Tokyo nights, tiring JVA missions and one Kodzuken’s rude fan.

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Sunday, 23rd December, 2018

ilovekodzuken563: This is the best Christmas present ever, I love you Kodzuken!!

aoi_ymmt: which game are you gonna play next?

hana_48: the cats and dogs available for adoption are so cuuute omgg

msbyloverrr: how do you know so many volleyball players ? felt like my worlds collided when I saw hinata AND bokuto from msby commenting on your last ig post!!

sxto9: the last merch drop is crazyyyy i want the whole collection !!

Kenma’s reading the comments, grinning in a satisfied way at his viewers' enthusiasm. As promised, he’s doing his special charity stream, and enjoying what should be the last live of the year – he usually takes a break between Christmas and the New Year. Handling the logistics of this stream in such a short amount of time has been challenging, but he’s very proud to be able to help the JAWS, who has been more than delighted to be featured by someone as popular as Kodzuken.

“Yes, they’re all very cute! If you can adopt one, I’m sure they’ll be delighted to have new families,” Kenma answers a comment. “But don’t go adopting literal living beings without considering the responsibilities involved,” he warns, especially for his younger audience. He knows some people regard pets as mere decoration, forgetting that it’s a long-term commitment. He would hate it if children begged their parents for pets for Christmas because of him, only to have them abandoned a few months later.

He's also pleased with the comment on his merch, which he's very proud of despite the mishap with the graphic designer. He's wearing the hoodie right now and can attest to the softness of the material. Sales have been strong right from the start, and some items are even already sold out. 

“Actually, I used to play volleyball in high school,” he confesses, snorting at the onslaught of comments it prompts. “So that’s how I know some of the players. I met Hinata…Mhm– I think it was during my second year?” he pauses to look at the chat.

kodzufan65: what position did you play? <33

akira35: I can’t believe it

_{💬 Replying to @kodzufan65: what position did you play? <33}

msbyloverrr: bet he was a libero

irs_ryo: but you told us you hated sports!

“I used to be a setter,” he answers as he hears Kuroo softly knocking on the door. 

Kuroo steps into the room with a new bottle of water and some cookies. The timing is perfect, because Kenma has been out of water for about twenty minutes and he's starting to get hungry. It's already been almost five hours since the start of the stream and he still has three to go. 

“And I used to hate sport, yes, but someone here got me into it,” he continues, nodding towards Kuroo, whose body appears on camera – his very muscular body, sculpted by the compression shirt he's wearing because he's no doubt just back from a jog. He hears Kuroo's slight snort in response. 

yxmiko3: omg is that the boyfriend ?

astu.sks89: were you any good tho?

msbyloverrr: wait does that mean you actually played against HINATA SHOYO ?

ilovekodzuken563: tbh i wouldn’t be surprised if you were joking kodzuken, your poker face is too good i don’t know what to believe 

Kenma tugs on Kuroo's sleeve as he's about to leave. “Look, they don't believe I played volleyball! And that I was good at it,” he falsely complains. So perhaps he doesn't mind showing off his hot boyfriend to his thousands of viewers – sue him.

Kuroo leans over to look at the chat, resting his chin on Kenma's shoulder from the side. He smirks at some of the comments. 

“You know, he was actually the brains of our team,” he begins, in a way too solemn voice. “He has a sharp strategic mind and this crazy ability to develop plans against his opponents, as I'm sure you all notice. He was able to observe the behavior of others and notice the smallest details, including their habits and personalities, and he would use these traits to our team’s advantage,” he recalls, barely pausing in his tirade. “We were truly so lucky to have him on our side! He’d always propose such precise plans for us to follow, we’d have lost so many more games without him. And just like when he plays video games, most of his plans were imperceptible at first, but became exceptionally effective over time. So our opponents often didn’t realize they'd fallen into his trap until it was too late,” he finishes, voice fond and proud.

Kenma sits listening, wondering how Kuroo can remember so many ultimately insignificant details about a simple boy who played volleyball in an average high school – but then he remembers Kuroo has never been normal about volleyball, and even less about him. 

hana_48: wow can’t believe this is happening

akira35: Kodzuken can you FIGHT ?

kodzufan65: i’ll need at least seven business days to recover from this

hinata_shoyo: kuroo-san is right, it’s all true !!!!! 

msbyloverrr: HINATAAA ???

nsd_issei1: who’s hinata ? 

gwensplay56: waiiit that’s the boyfriend ?? no wonder he’s been hiding him all these years

_{💬 Replying to @nsd_issei1: who’s hinata ?}

msbyloverrr: super famous volleyball player from MSBY ?

hana_48: i wish someone would praise my skills as eloquently as Kodzuken's boyfriend does *sigh*

_{💬 Replying to @msbyloverrr: super famous volleyball player from MSBY ?}

nsd_issei1: aaaah okok, thanks

After glancing at the chat, Kuroo's face takes on a smug look, which only makes him even more handsome, if Kenma dare say so. He kisses Kenma's cheek before leaving the room, and the streamer tries as hard as he can to keep a straight face, but the soft look with which he follows Kuroo certainly gives him away.

“Okayyy, let’s move on to the next game,” Kenma announces as he launches Stardew Valley. 

Once the live is over, Kenma stifles a yawn and turns off all his equipment, feeling quite accomplished after the successful year he had. Although he knows he'll be happy to stream again after the New Year, he knows this break will do him good. Perhaps he could even organize another charity stream in a few months’ time as he quite enjoyed this one – of course, it may or may not be due to a certain someone’s appearance and public speaking skills. He'll have to check again, but he also thinks he raised about 6838751.62¥ for the JAWS, which is pretty incredible.

He goes into the living room and finds Kuroo kneeling in front of the sofa, probably looking for something. Kenma can't help but tease him a little.

“Have you lost something under the couch again?”

Kuroo startles, and turns around, eyes wide, clearly surprised by Kenma's presence. 

“No, no, it’s nothing, don’t worry Kenm–”

He is interrupted by a mewl and stops talking abruptly. Kenma's eyebrows rise, his keen gaze turning to the source of the– mewl? He approaches the couch, kneeling beside Kuroo, who chuckles lightly, a soft blush taking possession of his face.

Kenma's golden eyes suddenly meet olive ones.

“I wanted to surprise you but I think he got scared when you opened the door?” Kuroo explains lightheartedly, sitting back on his heels.

“Is that– Do we have– Is he ours?” Kenma asks in an almost shy way, looking at Kuroo for confirmation. 

Kuroo nods, without taking his eyes off Kenma. “I got the idea from you partnering with the JAWS for your stream. I mean…we’ve always wanted cats and now that we’re living together– I thought it was time.”

“Oh my god,” Kenma murmurs, having trouble believing it – who knows, maybe he fell asleep during his stream and is now dreaming. If so, he's not sure he wants to wake up.

Yet he throws himself into Kuroo's arms, squeezing him tightly before kissing him, fervent and loving, committed to expressing his gratitude. 

Kuroo then rests his forehead against his, hands running against his bare skin under his sweater. “I went to pick him up early this afternoon, just after you started your live. This one was a stray and his left ear is slightly torn, but he's in good health,” Kuroo tells him. “I also bought everything we should need,” he adds while Kenma shivers under the touch of his hands.

The kitten meows again and Kenma pulls away from Kuroo to bend over, observing the tiny animal hidden under the couch. They succeed in attracting him – food does the trick – and he sniffs curiously at Kenma's sweatpants, as they gaze at each other in wonder.

“You’re the best,” Kenma murmurs to himself, feeling so lucky that not even a snowflake dancing in a blizzard could match his happiness.

Later that evening, Kenma finds himself lying on Kuroo's lap, a ginger ball of fur – Chibi – purring on his belly while his boyfriend plays with his hair. Life is good. 

⋆⁺₊❅.⋆⁺

Tuesday, 25th December, 2018

[Photo of Kenma and Kuroo sitting on a couch. Kenma’s head is resting against Kuroo’s shoulder, and there is a ginger kitten napping on his lap. They are both smiling at the camera. The sun is shining through the window and a huge Christmas tree stands behind them.]

Liked by justkenma, akaashi.kj and 407,269 others

kuroo.tetsurou family ❤️

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kodzuken ❤️ 

msbybokuto i can’t wait to meet him!!!

kodzuken_luver when you think perfection doesn’t exist but kodzuken proves you wrong

justkenma it's your turn to clean the litter box tonight ;)

kuroo.tetsurou @justkenma and I’ll gladly do it ;)