Archive of Our Own

At thirty-five years old, Atsumu would say he had what one could call a happy, normal life. He made enough money thanks to his career as a professional volleyball player and having been to the olympics to buy himself a small house in the countryside — he’s always preferred it to the city — and he even managed to get a yard with it.

He also got himself a dog; a female golden retriever whose name is Mina and whom he loves dearly. He got her from a refuge a little over two years ago when she was just a puppy. It took time for her to get used to him, she used to be scared and wary of him — which she still was when it came to strangers — but now she and Atsumu were inseparable. And she loved the house’s yard as much as he did.

He retired from his career as a professional volleyball player at thirty-two and studied to become a coach instead. Surprisingly, he didn’t take his retirement too bad. He remembered how Osamu was worried that it would take a toll on him, but Atsumu wasn’t sad. It felt weird, of course, but he’s also always known that it would come eventually. He made sure to enjoy every single moment on the court until his last one. His coach training didn’t take him as long as a usual training course would since he already knew everything there was to know about volleyball, but he still studied seriously for it.

It’s been a little less than two years now that he’s coaching professional volleyball players and he’s been loving every second of it. Being able to share his passion for the sport with the players of the next generation was more fulfilling than he’s ever imagined. Many of them reminded him a lot of himself and his years with the Black Jackals, which was always a plus.

No matter what his high school motto was, Atsumu was a nostalgic person. Which was why he was over the moon when he learned that MSBY was looking for a coach to replace Meian, who took over after Foster retired. Walking in his former coach and former captain’s steps has been an honor that Atsumu tried his best to show every single day.

He didn’t have a partner, but he didn’t think that mattered. He had many friends on whom he knew he could count, and his mom and brother were always one phone call or text message away. So, yeah, Atsumu wouldn’t say his life was lacking anything.

It wasn’t as if he had given up on love or anything like that, his heart wasn’t necessarily closed. But he wasn’t really pursuing it either. He didn’t believe in forcing love anyway. He tried once, but it didn't work.

He fought really hard for his and Kiyoomi’s relationship, for them to stay together. But they were young and had just won the olympics, many teams around the world suddenly became way more interested in them and Kiyoomi left for France. Atsumu never blamed him. Both men knew how important volleyball was to each other and they never tried to stop the other from pursuing his dreams. The thing was that Kiyoomi’s dreams involved international teams, Atsumu’s dreams involved Japan only.

At first, they tried a long-distance relationship. They’d been together for a few years already when Kiyoomi left, their relationship was solid and their feelings strong so they thought they could do it. But they found out that loving each other sometimes wasn’t enough. The video calls slowly turned into phone calls, and then phone calls turned into text messages. Those became more and more rare due to the different time zones and, inevitably, their relationship crashed and burned.

They didn’t want their beautiful relationship to be tarnished so they ended it before it could reach a point of no-return. Their break up was on what one could define as ‘good terms’, but they never contacted each other again after that.

Even now, Atsumu had no idea what type of man Kiyoomi has become. He followed the other man’s international career of course, but Kiyoomi retired a year before Atsumu did, and with that any news he was getting of Kiyoomi suddenly stopped. Although, if Atsumu was being honest with himself, he didn’t really try to know more about the new life of the man who he used to call the love of his life.

Atsumu doesn’t think there really is anyone to blame for the failure of their story, but that didn’t mean he wasn’t left hurt anyway. The one thing he’s sure of was that he didn’t want to revive something like that, so for now he was just living his life day to day and that was enough.

That way of living worked well until one day at practice. Everything was normal until one of his players fell and hurt his ankle. Atsumu doesn’t take injuries lightly and immediately stopped the game to check it. Granted, he had knowledge on sports injury — he had to attend a training course as part of his coaching training — but he was no doctor.

He couldn’t tell his assistant coach to take the injured player to the medical center because the latter had an important meeting to attend that he notified Atsumu about several weeks ago. Atsumu couldn’t do that to him. And since practice was supposed to end in twenty minutes, Atsumu simply decided to stop practice for the day a little earlier than usual.

“We’ll stop now fer today,” he announced to his players. “Yer all adults and know how ta take care of yer bodies so please stretch properly and then go home. Eat proper food and rest! See ya next week.”

He heard several “Yes coach” in response and nodded to himself before redirecting his attention to his injured player, Inari. Atsumu explained to him that he didn’t think his ankle was broken, but that it was probably sprained and that he’d drive him to the medical center to have it checked.

Inari didn’t seem really enthusiastic about the whole ordeal, but it wasn’t like he had any other choice so he nodded and followed Atsumu, wincing in pain. Atsumu placed one of his arms against Inari’s back to hold him up and the latter leaned most of his weight against Atsumu’s body so as to help him walk.

If Atsumu was lucky enough, Iwaizumi might still be at the center when they’d arrive. It’s always easier when he knew the doctor in charge — and when the doctor knew him. One would find it funny how very few sports doctors actually recognized him whenever he visited them.

It’s been a week since Kiyoomi started at his new job and he couldn’t really say he’s been liking it. Although he did like being a doctor, he didn’t regret the years he spent studying for it, this definitely wasn’t how he envisioned his job. Sports medicine has always interested him and he’s always wanted to practice it once his career as a professional player would come to an end.

When he arrived on Monday morning, Kiyoomi was pleasantly surprised to see that Iwaizumi was his mentor. It felt good to be in the company of someone he knew and trusted. Iwaizumi has been doing this job for way longer than him and Kiyoomi remembered having visited him several times when he was playing for MSBY. Especially that one time Atsumu hurt his knee pretty badly and Kiyoomi took him to the exact medical center he’s currently working at.

Whatever. Now was definitely not the time to think of Atsumu, getting distracted at work surely won’t help him. The thing was, Kiyoomi hasn’t actually practiced anything remotely close to sports medicine for the past week. Iwaizumi kept asking him to do blood tests and X-rays and other basic medicine tasks that even a nurse on their first day was able to do. The only task that Kiyoomi didn’t mind doing was the cleaning because it actually de-stressed him, but it wasn’t why he was here. If he ever felt the need to stress-clean, then he’d clean his apartment ; not the common spaces of his work place where he has been hired as a doctor, not as a cleaner.

Kiyoomi understood that he was being tested, the fact that Iwaizumi observed him at all times was enough indication, but this was frankly getting ridiculous.

“Iwaizumi-san,” a nurse called as she walked towards them. “We have a new patient and they’re asking for you.”

“Oh, thank you Mizuki-san,” Iwaizumi replied as he took the patient chart from her hand and nodded at her. She smiled in return and went back to her own tasks.

Iwaizumi started to read the chart and frowned, a simple “Ah” that Kiyoomi didn’t know the meaning of escaped his lips. Kiyoomi frowned in turn and, in an impulsive act, he stole the chart from Iwaizumi’s hands. Iwaizumi turned to look at him, eyes wide open and definitely not pleased. Kiyoomi gulped at the sight but didn’t falter.

“I didn’t come to work here to do the job of a cleaner and a nurse, Iwaizumi. We have a new patient and I’m a doctor, I’ll treat them.”

Iwaizumi was silent for a moment as he looked at him. Then, he pinched his nose and sighed loudly. “You’re right, you’re ready.” Kiyoomi sighed in relief and he was about to thank him when Iwaizumi continued, “Maybe just not this patient.”

Kiyoomi frowned and took a moment to look at the chart he was holding. His eyes widened in nostalgia when he read that the patient was a professional volleyball player at MSBY. He read more and saw that it only seemed to be an ankle injury — it’s a very common injury for professional sports players, Kiyoomi has had one of his own.

“It’s just a fractured ankle, Iwaizumi. I can treat that with my eyes closed,” Kiyoomi told him, annoyed. He didn’t even care if he sounded like he was bragging.

“It’s not that,” Iwaizumi gritted his teeth as he started to walk in the direction of the ER, Kiyoomi following in tow. “He plays for MSBY,” Iwaizumi added, glancing at Kiyoomi from the corner of his eyes.

Kiyoomi frowned. “Yeah, I saw. So did I, don’t you think it’ll put the patient at ease if I tell him so?”

Iwaizumi bit his bottom lip for a moment, as if thinking about what he could reply and Kiyoomi was even more confused. Iwaizumi has never been one to mince his words. They’re about to reach the ER when Iwaizumi finally reopened his mouth. “The patient is here with MSBY’s coach.”

Kiyoomi looked down on the chart and then back to Iwaizumi. “How do you know? It’s not written anywhere.”

“I know because the nurse told us they requested me.”

“Right.” Kiyoomi didn’t really get why the fact that the player’s coach was here was any of his business but he didn’t say anything. Actually, he’s excited to see both of them. With the exception of Motoya, it’s been a while since Kiyoomi has talked with people who love volleyball as much as he did. “I know Foster retired a little after I left and that Meian took over. Is he still their coach?” He asked happily, looking forward to seeing his old captain after so long.

They stepped into the ER and Iwaizumi let out what was probably the deepest sigh that Kiyoomi has ever heard. “No,” Iwaizumi gritted his teeth, “Meian isn’t their coach anymore.”

And before Kiyoomi could ask more about that, a voice he hasn’t heard in a decade interrupted them.

“Hajime! I wasn’t sure ya’d be here, ‘am happy ta see ya.”

Kiyoomi gasped and froze in place when he’s met with the sight of an older version of his one and only love.

“Happy to see you too, Atsumu,” Iwaizumi replied as he easily reciprocated Atsumu’s hug.

Since when were those two this close? They weren’t calling each other by their first names the last time Kiyoomi saw the two of them interact. He couldn’t help but frown as an ugly feeling of jealousy settled in his chest. He cleared his throat loudly and it effectively broke the two other men’s hug. They let go and it’s only then that Atsumu seemed to notice him — which hurt probably more than it should but Kiyoomi didn’t want to think about it.

He used to be the first person Atsumu would notice anywhere he went. Now, he watched as Atsumu took an involuntary step back, his eyes widening comically when he looked at Kiyoomi. Then, his face paled, he looked as if he’d just seen a ghost and Kiyoomi really didn’t know how to react. He didn’t expect to see Atsumu again, not so soon.

He had a solid plan to get his old lover back, and it definitely didn’t involve any of this. Atsumu wasn’t supposed to look at him like that. It hurt. Kiyoomi’s heart hurt. His mind suddenly filled itself with thoughts and memories of the two of them, years ago, when they were happy and in love and that their biggest problem was whether or not they’d make it to the Olympics.

Kiyoomi tried his best to control his expression so as to not show anything to Atsumu — bless doctors for wearing face masks at all times — and he couldn’t tell if Atsumu was happier or madder at it.

“Om–” Kiyoomi’s heart fluttered before Atsumu cleared his throat. “Kiyoomi,” he said instead, nodding in a polite greeting that Kiyoomi found way too formal for the history they had. “I didn’t know ya worked here. Didn’t even know ya were back.”

The last sentence has been muttered so quietly that Kiyoomi wouldn’t have heard it at all if he hadn’t been intensely focused on the other man. He also didn’t miss the way Atsumu glared at Iwaizumi, surely because he, too, didn’t say anything about Kiyoomi’s comeback either.

Kiyoomi cleared his throat in turn. “Uhm, yeah. It’s my first week here, though.”

Atsumu hummed noncommittally, before he nodded in the direction of the younger man next to him. “This is Inari, he’s one of my players. He fell badly after a set. I already told the nurse that I don’t think it’s broken, but I still wanted ya ta check ta be sure.”

Both Iwaizumi and Kiyoomi listened to him attentively and nodded. Iwaizumi hummed and opened his mouth to reply, “You did good, an untreated injured ankle can be dangerous. I’ll check hi–”

“I’ll do it,” Kiyoomi interrupted.

Iwaizumi glared at him, surely for having stepped in for the second time in the span of five minutes, but Kiyoomi promptly ignored him. He also ignored Atsumu’s eyes that looked at him weirdly, like he’s incompetent or something.

Kiyoomi walked to the patient instead.

“Uhm. No offense, doctor, but you did say it was your first week here.”

Kiyoomi definitely didn’t expect the patient to also doubt him. He couldn’t control his expression as his eyes twitched in annoyment. That was precisely why he didn’t like the way Iwaizumi has been treating him the past week. The last thing he wanted was for patients to not trust him. Trust was the most fundamental thing when it came to a doctor whose hands you put your life in.

Kiyoomi sighed and looked the patient in the eyes. He was about to open his mouth to reassure him when Atsumu beat him to it.

“He studied medicine when ya were still in primary school, ya brat,” Atsumu huffed, although there was still a sense of fondness in his voice, like he saw this young player as a sort of kid to him. “Let him do his thing. Yer in good hands, Inari. Promise.”

Kiyoomi gasped. He felt as if his heart was in his throat and his cheeks and the back of his neck burned. He hoped neither Atsumu nor Iwaizumi, who were currently standing behind him, could see it. Atsumu’s eyes didn’t leave his player for a single second, though. And his intense gaze seemed to work because Kiyoomi saw the young man visibly relax before he looked back at him and nodded at Kiyoomi to proceed with the examination of his ankle.

Kiyoomi secretly smiled to himself under his mask. He’s always known Atsumu would make a great coach. Even back when they were playing together, Kiyoomi could see the care Atsumu provided to his spikers, as well as everyone else on the team. It was his own kind of affection, sometimes some good old tough love, but it was still affection nonetheless. Kiyoomi never felt more appreciated in his life than when he was appreciated by Miya Atsumu.

Seeing today the proof that Atsumu did, in fact, make a great coach warmed his heart more than he could have ever imagined. He never doubted him. Still feeling immensely proud, Kiyoomi moved to look at Inari’s ankle and proceeded. He didn’t miss the way Iwaizumi got closer to him so as to check his movements, but Kiyoomi appreciated the distance that the other man left between them and the fact that he was silent, nor overwhelming.

When he’s done, Kiyoomi concluded by telling both Inari and Atsumu that the young man’s ankle was sprained. He then proceeded with putting a splint on his foot and explained to Inari that what he had was a grade 1 sprain. He’d need to rest for three weeks and make sure to put as little pressure as he could on his foot. Inari told him that he didn’t live alone and that he’d be able to get help from some friends and family therefore Kiyoomi didn’t worry too much. This young man didn’t seem to be too much of a daredevil so at least there’s that.

By the end of Kiyoomi’s explanation, Inari thanked him and apologized profusely for having been disrespectful at the beginning. Kiyoomi chuckleed and dismissed him with his hand, telling him that it’s already forgotten. He definitely didn’t miss the fond smile on Atsumu’s face at that, although he didn’t know what it meant.

It’s been so long since he’s last seen Atsumu’s smile, he can’t help but stare. Although it didn’t last long because Atsumu’s smile disappeared as soon as he noticed Kiyoomi’s eyes on him.

Kiyoomi jolted when Iwaizumi cleared his throat loudly, effectively bringing him back to the present. Kiyoomi felt self-conscious when he noticed how Inari was so very obviously embarrassingly avoiding both his and Atsumu’s gaze. Atsumu himself was avoiding his gaze, too

Kiyoomi felt his whole face burn and he cleared his throat awkwardly, telling them that he was all done and that Inari could go back home to rest.

Atsumu was the first one to jump at the opportunity Kiyoomi offered to avoid the elephant in the room and he nodded all too happily. Inari then said that he’d call his roommate so that they could come pick him up and take him home directly, rather than bothering Atsumu with the drive. Atsumu smiled and told him that it wouldn’t have been a problem, but that he appreciated the gesture anyway.

About fifteen minutes later, a tall woman entered the ER to pick Inari up and Kiyoomi took that opportunity to let her know of some things she could do in order to help Inari accommodate his resting time. She listened carefully to everything he said and that pleased Kiyoomi. He watched them leave confidently, and proud of the fact that his first patient examination went as well as it did.

Iwaizumi seemed to think the same as he simply acknowledged Kiyoomi with an appreciative nod. Kiyoomi nodded in turn and watched as Iwaizumi hugged Atsumu —again—   before he left, surely making his way to his office to call it a day and go back home.

Both he and Atsumu watched as Iwaizumi disappeared from their sight and silence settled upon the two men. The atmosphere felt a bit uncomfortable as it was obvious that neither of them really knew what to say, but Kiyoomi didn’t feel the urge to flee so he took that as a win.

It’s Atsumu who broke the silence first after a little while by clearing his throat. “Erm, well, I’m gonna go then,” he said, sounding unsure before he chuckled awkwardly. “Bye, Kiyoomi. T’was nice seein’ ya.”

Atsumu started to tentatively make his way towards the door when Kiyoomi stopped him to ask. “Was it?” He wasn’t able to hide the hope in his voice but he didn’t care.

Atsumu’s mouth turned into a small smile, “‘Course. I’m always happy ta see ya.”

“Yeah, but…” Kiyoomi didn’t really know how to continue his sentence.

Atsumu didn’t let him anyway. “There’s no but,” he said, still smiling. “That’ll never change, Omi.”

Kiyoomi’s eyes widened and his heartbeat quickened at the sound of the nickname that he used to hate at first but ended up spending a decade missing. His cheeks heated up and he’s grinning. He thought he was safe thanks to his mask but Atsumu’s eyes shined when he looked at him and Kiyoomi was sure that his blush was visible anyway. He couldn’t even bring himself to care, though.

“Are you free now?” He blurted out.

Atsumu’s eyes widened, “Erm, yeah?” He frowned a bit, confusion obvious on his face.

Kiyoomi nodded and smiled. “Inari was my last patient of the day. Would you like to have dinner with me?” He bit his bottom lip nervously as he waited for Atsumu’s reply. Then, self-consciousness settled upon him when Atsumu didn’t immediately reply and he felt the need to add. “It doesn’t have to be a date!” He exclaimed, cringing at how loud his voice sounds in the empty waiting room of the ER. “We can just meet up to catch up.”

Atsumu chuckled and his face broke into a huge grin. There were wrinkles on his face that were highlighted by his smile. They definitely weren’t there ten years ago, when Kiyoomi knew every inch of Atsumu’s face by heart. His heart missed a beat. Even a decade later, Atsumu looked as beautiful as the day Kiyoomi fell in love with him.

“Yeah,” Atsumu finally replied, “I’d like that.”

Kiyoomi sighed in relief and smiled, “Cool.”

Then, Atsumu’s face turned into a smirk that, this time, Kiyoomi recognized oh so well. “What if I want it to be a date, though?”

Kiyoomi’s eyes widened and he spluttered. “I mean–” He cleared his throat embarrassingly. “That can definitely be arranged.”

Atsumu laughed softly and the sound was like music to Kiyoomi’s ears. “Good,” he grinned.

Kiyoomi nodded and he felt lighter than he has in days — years, perhaps. “Do you mind waiting a bit longer? Just the time for me to clock out and get my stuff back in my office.”

Atsumu simply shrugged, “Works fer me. I’ll grab my change of clothes from my car and go to one of the hospital’s changin’ rooms.”

Kiyoomi frowned.

Atsumu scoffed, “Ya don’t think I’ll go on a date with ya in my coachin’ clothes, do ya?”

It’s somehow only then that Kiyoomi actually noticed that Atsumu was, indeed, wearing a pair of sweatpants and his coaching jacket. He couldn’t help the laugh that escaped his lips.

Atsumu gasped and placed one of his hands dramatically on his chest and Kiyoomi only laughed more. “Alright,” he said between two fits of laughter, “You go change and I’ll wait for you here.” He added fondly.

Atsumu’s face broke into yet another smile and Kiyoomi’s heart definitely did a little flutter at the sight. “‘Kay, Omi.” He said before leaving for his car.

Kiyoomi smiled and shook his head fondly as he watched him go. Then, he made his way to his office and if several nurses looked at him weirdly for the huge grin he kept on his face, Kiyoomi ignored them all. He didn’t think there was anything at all that could dampen his current mood. It’s been so long since he didn’t feel this happy, this… hopeful. He missed it.

Atsumu didn’t know what he did in his life to deserve this second chance that’s been offered to him on a silver platter, but he sure as Hell wasn’t about to question it. Seeing Kiyoomi again today had been the last thing he’d expected, but when the latter actually asked him out, Atsumu thought he was downright hallucinating.

But there he was, after three pep talks to himself through the mirror of the medical center’s changing rooms, sitting across from Kiyoomi in a restaurant. Their table was a little secluded – courtesy of Kiyoomi – and it only just made it all look way more like a date and Atsumu felt giddy. He hasn’t felt like this since his high school years, and it was with the same boy who turned into the handsome man currently sitting in front of him.

Atsumu couldn’t believe his eyes. Kiyoomi still looked like the Kiyoomi he used to know all those years ago, but now that the latter removed his face mask, there were also evident differences. Whenever Kiyoomi smiled softly, there was a new dimple on his cheek – Atsumu could only hope that it was due to some good laughs that Kiyoomi had over the years.

And most of all, Atsumu couldn’t help but notice, thanks to the restaurant’s lightning, that Kiyoomi had grey hair. And fuck if that wasn’t just terribly hot. He couldn’t help the wave of nostalgia that rushed through him, though.

There was a time when Atsumu used to think about things like these: grey hair, dimples, wrinkles —aging. His younger, romantic self always thought that he’d do all that with Kiyoomi. That he’d get to see in real time the first signs of aging on the other man, and that they’d live through them all. That they would do it together.

He couldn’t help the sour taste in his mouth now that he realized that it had been foolish thinking of him. Of course, when he was younger, he never fully realized what it meant to grow up. How life events could bring people together, but also sometimes push them away.

But Atsumu couldn’t help but also think that he’s only thirty-five years old. That’s not very old, he could still have tons of years with Kiyoomi if the other man wanted them as well. He could still watch Kiyoomi gain more grey hair and wrinkles, and anything else that the latter would get. Atsumu wanted to see all of those. And as he was sitting here, across from the man he’s loved since high school and never quite managed to let go even during their years apart, Atsumu hoped. He hoped that Kiyoomi wanted him just as much as he did.

Atsumu never really believed in things like destiny or faith, but after having randomly met Kiyoomi again after ten years, their paths crossing once again thanks to volleyball… well it looked a lot like it anyway.

Dinner went well. It passed way quicker than Atsumu imagined. He thought it might have been awkward at times considering the fact that neither of them really knew the current version of each other, but it hasn’t been at all. There weren’t even long blanks within the conversation. Both men talked in turn about the years they’ve spent apart so as to fill the other in on what they’ve missed, and both men listened attentively at everything that was being said.

Atsumu thought he’d feel sadder as he was listening to everything that happened in Kiyoomi’s life when he wasn’t part of it, but he found that he wasn’t. Sure, he would have preferred to be by Kiyoomi’s side as everything happened, but he also enjoyed listening to Kiyoomi telling him about it all. There was a small, secretive smile at the corner of his lips and Atsumu couldn’t help but smile in return, happy to see that Kiyoomi’s life continued anyway and that the other man lived it.

Kiyoomi looked like he lived. He was more mature and had gained a lot of life experiences — all in all, he looked good. And Atsumu was greatly happy about that. One could think it was narcissistic of him, but he’s genuinely glad to see that Kiyoomi’s life didn’t stop when they broke up. He also didn’t feel guilty at all anymore about the fact that he, too, has achieved lots of things during their time apart. He and Kiyoomi both have always had dreams and goals they wanted to achieve, and Atsumu was happy to see that this didn’t change.

They decided to go on a walk after their dinner, both men not having to worry about going to work the next day so they could enjoy the evening freely. The wintery night was chilly but enjoyable nonetheless. They could see the Christmas lights hung up in the streets and the decorated storefronts. It was all very pretty. Atsumu has always loved Christmas and the atmosphere that went with it. When he was a kid, he used to love Christmas morning and opening gifts, but as he grew up, he learned to love even more the period before that. The one that led to Christmas — the lights, the decorated trees, the markets.

Snow started to fall at one point during their walk. Atsumu smiled as he looked up at the beautiful starry night. He turned to look at Kiyoomi and laughed fondly as he watched snowflakes fall on the man’s curls. Kiyoomi didn’t seem very pleased about it though, but Atsumu’s laugh seemed to be enough compensation for him to enjoy the moment anyway.

Atsumu was enthralled by the sight of the snow falling prettily on the city, recovering it in a thin white layer illuminated by the Christmas lights. And Kiyoomi was mostly being grumpy, burying his nose in his scarf and complaining about the cold, but still following Atsumu anyway. It was exactly like when they were younger and Atsumu’s heart felt so full and warm.

Without allowing himself to question too much what he was about to do, Atsumu grabbed Kiyoomi’s hand and intertwined their fingers. Kiyoomi gasped and his cheeks and ears were red when Atsumu glanced at him. Atsumu knew Kiyoomi would blame it on the cold if those were addressed so he kept shut and just smiled at him. Kiyoomi smiled in turn and gave a little squeeze to Atsumu’s hand before the latter put their two hands inside of the warm pocket of his coat. Then, they resumed their walking as if nothing happened.

Kiyoomi used to love it when Atsumu would hold his hand, and especially during the winter. For some reason, Atsumu’s hands were always warm, whereas Kiyoomi’s hands tended to match the weather — hot and sweaty in summer but terribly cold and dry in winter. He loved using that as an excuse to hold Atsumu’s hand, though. And Atsumu never minded one bit, happily providing the warmth Kiyoomi was seeking. 

The night went by way too fast and before either of the two men realized it, they were standing at Atsumu’s porch. The atmosphere around them wasn’t awkward, but there was definitely some tension in the air. Atsumu debated kissing Kiyoomi. Should he? It’s only the first day they’ve seen each other after ten years, maybe that’s a little too fast. They should probably talk some more about their relationship and what today meant. After all, they didn’t really talk about it during dinner and their walk.

They talked about the past and everything that happened during the decade they spent apart, but not about the future. Not even really about their relationship. They didn’t have much to say about their break up, since it has always been mutual, but that didn’t mean they didn’t need to talk about it anyway. They weren’t teenagers or young adults anymore, whether or not they decided to pursue a relationship would have consequences.

They’re already in their mid-thirties and Atsumu had some things that he wanted in his life that he would need to talk about with Kiyoomi. He already had a dog, but if he ever found a life partner, Atsumu has also always wanted to have a child. And that was definitely something they would need to talk about. He didn’t want to force his wishes onto Kiyoomi, but he also didn’t want to deprive himself of something he’d really love to have.

The thought of a little human running and giggling in his home made Atsumu smile softly and it’s the sound of Kiyoomi loudly clearing his throat that brought him back to the present.

“Atsumu,” Kiyoomi said.

Atsumu lifted his head to look back at him and hummed in response.

“We still need to talk about us,” Kiyoomi started, Atsumu gulped and nodded at him to continue. “It’s getting late now, though, and I’m sure we’re both tired of our work day. Would you like to meet again tomorrow?”

Atsumu smiled softly, both at the thoughtful question and the way Kiyoomi easily let him know that he wanted to see him again. Atsumu nodded, “Yeah, works fer me.”

The next day was Saturday anyway so he didn’t have anything to do, just helping Osamu out at the restaurant but that was only for the dinner service. He told that much to Kiyoomi, who only nodded and suggested they meet up for lunch and then could talk during the afternoon. Atsumu was about to agree when both men heard a loud barking.

Kiyoomi jumped in surprise and Atsumu broke into laughter. “That’s Mina, my dog. She must have smelled me through the door,” he said and chuckled softly when Kiyoomi nodded, desperately trying to regain his composure although his face was scarlet red. Oh how Atsumu had missed the sight of a blushing Kiyoomi.

“I still need ta walk her tonight so I better get goin’. It was nice seein’ ya again, Kiyoomi. I’ll see ya tomorrow fer lunch.” And before he turned around to unlock his door, Atsumu leaned in to leave a kiss on Kiyoomi’s cheek. He smiled when he heard the little gasp Kiyoomi let out and watched in time as the man’s cheeks turned pink.

Then, Atsumu took a step back. “Goodnight Omi,” he winked and Kiyoomi chuckled.

“Goodnight, Atsu.”

Atsumu grinned and watched him leave his house before he turned around to finally open his door. And it only took approximately two seconds before Mina jumped on him. Atsumu chuckled and crouched down, greeting her and petting her for about five minutes before he took her leash and went out. He didn’t really need it because she always listened carefully to him, but it was always safer in case other dogs weren’t as trained as her.

Mina loved the snow and Atsumu loved to watch her play in it. He took her to a field where she could run as much as she wanted without disturbing anyone and he simply watched her happily. He used this time to think about Kiyoomi a bit more and now the other man seemed to want something serious as well. Atsumu guessed he just had to wait and see how the situation would evolve once they both put all their thoughts on the table tomorrow.

Atsumu played for a little while with Mina in the snow, and then he stopped when he almost couldn’t feel his fingers anymore because of the cold weather. Approximately thirty minutes after they left the house, they both were on their way back, Mina wandering here and there to sniff some spots in the grass.

Soon enough, they were back home and Atsumu was struggling with an overexcited Mina as he was trying to dry her paws so that she wouldn’t wet the floor of the entire house. It took him at least three minutes but when he was done, she ran to the kitchen as she knew he’d give her a treat. Atsumu removed his coat and shoes and chuckled as he put his slippers on and walked to the kitchen after her.

After that, he went to take a shower and then took place on the couch. Mina joined him and rested her head on his thigh as Atsumu was picking something to put on the TV. He sent a quick text to his brother before he launched a movie and started petting Mina’s head. Twenty minutes into the movie, the two of them were sound asleep.

The next day, Kiyoomi arrived at the restaurant thirty minutes early. He kept anxiously spacing in his apartment so he just decided to go out, thinking that the walk would help him relax. But he ended up walking way too fast and arrived there way too early. He could go back home since he didn’t really live that far but that would be embarrassing so he decided to just wait here.

He spent a good part of his night just thinking about Atsumu and their date. Of all the things they’ve told each other and all the moments that he missed in the other man’s life. Kiyoomi won’t lie, the fact that he hasn’t been there for a great majority of Atsumu’s adult life saddened him. But he was really glad to have seen Atsumu again and to be able to witness how much of a great man he’s become. Now he could only hope that Atsumu still felt something for him and that he’d give Kiyoomi another chance.

From their date the day before, Kiyoomi assumed he did have a chance. So now he just had to hope that the conversation they’d have today would go well. Kiyoomi wanted Atsumu, but only if Atsumu wanted him just as much. They’re too old to have flings, or not be on the same wavelength. Kiyoomi wanted the whole deal. He wanted Atsumu for the long term —forever. He could only hope that Atsumu wouldn’t be put off by his seriousness and eagerness.

Kiyoomi has known Atsumu was the love of his life since he was sixteen, there was no way he wasn’t going to tell him that much. He was tired of the passing years during which he wasn’t by Atsumu’s side anymore. He was glad and proud of his accomplishment in his personal and professional life during their years apart, but Kiyoomi still would have preferred for Atsumu to be there with him. He hoped Atsumu would be there for his future accomplishments.

Atsumu arrived at the restaurant about ten minutes later, earlier than their agreed time as well. He seemed to be in the same state as Kiyoomi and, weirdly enough, it warmed his heart. That was what finally made Kiyoomi relax. They were on the same page.

A waiter took them to their table where they ordered their meals and ate in comfortable silence most of the time, safe for a few comments here and there about their respective foods. They skipped desserts, opting to go out and grab something on the way instead and, before long, they were both at a waffles booth. Both men ordered something and resumed their walk. Only then did they finally address the elephant in the room.

Atsumu opened his mouth first, which funnily made Kiyoomi both relaxed and stressed. Atsumu told him that he wasn’t looking for a fling and that he was too old for that, Kiyoomi smiled and replied that he, too, was looking for something serious. Then, Atsumu told him about his wish for a family, and Kiyoomi replied honestly by saying that he never really thought about having a family on his own but that it was definitely something he would want with Atsumu.

Atsumu also told Kiyoomi that he’d have to pass the ‘Mina test’ which apparently consisted just in seeing whether or not Mina liked Kiyoomi, but Atsumu told him that she liked everyone so that shouldn’t be too hard. Kiyoomi laughed and accepted of course, not that he had a choice. Still, he told Atsumu that he’d have to pass the ‘Salem test’ — except that Kiyoomi’s cat was way harder to please than Atsumu’s dog.

Atsumu scoffed and said that Kiyoomi’s cat would love him because he’s just that good with animals. And Kiyoomi didn’t really have any difficulties believing him. After all, he warmed up to Atsumu in a record time, he had no doubt Atsumu could do the same to anyone and anything.

They also talked about their long-distance relationship years. Atsumu told him how he felt lonely and that he didn’t want to redo it, but he insisted that he wasn’t mad at Kiyoomi at all for their breakup and how they handled things. So Kiyoomi told him that he, too, had felt lonely and sad during his years abroad but that he wasn’t mad at Atsumu either.

They both agreed at the time that it was a right person, wrong time type of situation and they seemed to both agree that now could be their right person, right time moment — because neither of them believed they could ever be the other’s wrong person.

They spent the rest of the afternoon talking and walking until the moment Atsumu had to leave. He said he needed to go home and walk Mina because he’d be back late tonight since he needed to help his brother out at his restaurant for the dinner service. Kiyoomi hummed and, against his better judgment, he said he’d accompany him — that this was a good opportunity for him to pass the Mina test. Atsumu’s eyes widened in surprise and a slight blush painted his cheeks but he looked pleased, so Kiyoomi took that as a good sign.

And that was how he ended up there, fallen back on his ass in the middle of a field with an overly excited dog jumping on him and a way too pleased Atsumu laughing his ass off next to them. At any other time, Kiyoomi would have become mad and told off whoever was making fun of him, but it’s been so long since he’s heard Atsumu laugh —genuinely, wholeheartedly laugh— that he couldn’t even feel anything but wonder at the sound.

“I told ya she likes everyone,” Atsumu said amusedly between two laughs.

Kiyoomi scoffed as he got up from the ground, now soaked to the bone due to the residual snow that fell the day before. Atsumu definitely looked amused by the sight but he also seemed genuinely guilty. Kiyoomi was about to tell him that it was okay, that he didn’t live very far and could easily go back home to freshen up, but Atsumu beat him to it.

“Do ya wanna come home with us?” Atsumu nodded in the direction of Mina who was sniffing some flowers. “Ya could shower there, and if ya want then ya can come with me ta Samu’s restaurant?”

Atsumu’s tone sounded unsure, yet determined. Kiyoomi has always admired the way Atsumu seemed confident in everything that he did, even when he, deep down, wasn’t feeling that much confident. That’s what made him accept.

“Sure,” he nodded, smiling genuinely.

Atsumu smiled in return and seemed relieved. Kiyoomi knew he made the right decision then. It’s been a while he hasn’t seen Osamu, but he remembered that the twins have always been very protective of each other, so Kiyoomi hoped that tonight would go well. If he could get Osamu’s blessing, he was sure to never leave Atsumu’s side ever again.

Both men walked to Atsumu’s apartment with Mina as if it were just routine, the walk was so comfortable it felt as if they’ve been doing this their whole life. Atsumu let him inside and they both removed their coats and shoes after Atsumu made a show of cleaning Mina’s paws. Kiyoomi watched half amusedly, half fondly as the two interacted. The strong bond between Atsumu and his dog was evident and the sight warmed Kiyoomi’s heart.

He’s always known that Atsumu loved dogs, they talked about it back then, when Atsumu told him he was never able to have one when he was a kid because his mom was allergic. Kiyoomi smiled thinking back to it, now that he was watching Atsumu and Mina; he was glad to see the other man finally having his own dog.

After that, Atsumu led him to his bathroom where he explained to Kiyoomi where the towels and anything else he’d need were. He told Kiyoomi he’d put clean clothes from his closet on his bed for when the latter would be done with his shower, and then Atsumu stepped out of the bathroom.

And Kiyoomi stood there for a few seconds, nodding silently at everything that he’s just been told as he tried to calm his racing heart and thoughts about this whole situation. He was going to wash his body with Atsumu’s body wash, and he was about to wear Atsumu’s clothes.

Cool. Totally cool.

That was fine. That was nothing they hadn’t done before. And yet, he couldn’t help but feel giddy—as if he’d returned back to his teenage self the first time Atsumu lended him one of his Inarizaki jackets. The sole thought had him smiling and Kiyoomi finally started undressing so as to step under the hot shower spray.

Atsumu took a shower after Kiyoomi as well and, before long, both men were out of the door again and on their way to Onigiri Miya. According to Atsumu, the walk to the restaurant was only about fifteen minutes, so they’d be there just on time for the dinner service to start. Atsumu joked about how this was perfectly intentional but Kiyoomi had a feeling that Atsumu was usually arriving earlier than that and probably helped Osamu setting the tables too.

Their hands brushed against one another at one point during their walk and both men froze, their cheeks blushing a bit when they looked at each other sheepishly. Atsumu grinned and Kiyoomi smiled back, they joined their hands once more and, this time, neither of them did anything but simply intertwine their fingers. Kiyoomi sighed in relief when he felt the warmth of Atsumu’s hand on his own.

“Heya Samu,” Atsumu called at the same time as he pushed open the front door of his brother’s restaurant, effectively making the little bell at the side of it announce their entrance.

“Yer late Tsumu,” was the reply they were met with. Kiyoomi didn’t even see where the voice came from, although Atsumu’s face was fixated on the counter so Kiyoomi guessed Osamu must be in the backroom behind it.

“Yeah, yeah, I know. We had somethin’ ta take care of first.”

Osamu scoffed. “We? Please tell me ya didn’t bring Mina. Ya know she always gets over excited when there’s many people around her.”

Atsumu chuckled and shook his head a few times, seemingly amused by his dog’s antics. “Nah, I didn’t bring her.”

Osamu hummed and Kiyoomi could finally see the other man appear, he unconsciously straightened up. “Then who’s we?” Osamu asked before he fully stepped behind the counter and stopped dead in his tracks when he was met with the sight of his brother and Kiyoomi, hands still joined.

“Hello, Osamu-san,” Kiyoomi greeted first, not wanting the weird mood to worsen.

Osamu huffed and Kiyoomi couldn’t tell if that was good or not. Then, Osamu nodded in Kiyoomi’s direction and greeted him back before he turned his head in Atsumu’s direction, “Well damn. I sure as Hell wasn’t expectin’ that.”

Atsumu shrugged, “Yeah. I toldja yesterday that I met someone I hadn’t seen fer a while.”

“Right,” Osamu nodded, “Ya kinda forgot ta mention that someone is yer ex, though.”

“Eh,” Atsumu simply shrugged again before he dismissed his brother with his hand. “I’ll tell ya another time. We had lunch together and spent the afternoon together. I told him he could come here with me if he wanted to and he said yes.”

Osamu hummed and eyed them for a few moments. Kiyoomi gulped. But then Osamu just shrugged in the same way Atsumu did a few moments ago and walked to the counter so as to drop the box he was currently holding.

“Well, Tsumu usually waits tables, I dunno if ya wanna do that, Sakusa? Otherwise ya can just sit at the counter and I’ll cook ya somethin’ and ya can just wait fer Tsumu ta be done.”

Kiyoomi let out a breath he didn’t know he was holding and Atsumu squeezed his hand a little. Kiyoomi had forgotten he was even holding it, but he liked the soothing presence. “I can help with the service too,” he replied.

Osamu nodded and led them to the backroom where they removed their coats and put aprons on. Osamu left the room so as to go back to his food preparations while Atsumu explained to Kiyoomi what he would need to do. It wasn’t anything too complicated, Kiyoomi had been a waiter for a few years during his studies when he needed the additional money.

The next hours went by very fast. Waiting tables was definitely quicker than usual with both Atsumu and Kiyoomi doing it, but Osamu seemed satisfied with it all given that there were lots of customers. Kiyoomi has never been here before but even Atsumu seemed surprised by the amount of people so that must be a good thing.

He was currently wiping down tables of customers who just left while Atsumu switched the OPEN sign on the door to CLOSED instead. There were only two families left eating in the restaurant but Osamu was done with cooking for the day and even Kiyoomi, who didn’t know the other man really well, could tell that he was tired. Atsumu could too, if the little crease between his brows were any indication.

About ten minutes later, the last family paid for their meals and stepped out, which marked the end of that dinner service. The three men sighed in relief before chuckling softly as both Atsumu and Kiyoomi removed their aprons while Osamu wiped his forehead.

“C’mon Omi,” Atsumu said, nodding in the direction of the counter.

Kiyoomi frowned in confusion when Atsumu sat down on one of the stools but followed him nonetheless and mirrored him. The next second, a pair of plates full of onigiris were placed in front of them.

Kiyoomi raised his head and eyebrows at Osamu, who was just smiling at him. “Eat,” he said.

Kiyoomi smiled softly and opened his mouth to reply when Atsumu’s voice interrupted him. “Mmh, those are good, Samu.”

Osamu scoffed, “Ya couldn’t even wait fer us.”

Kiyoomi snorted and redirected his eyes on Osamu. “Thanks,” he said, before biting into his first rice ball. He hummed instantly and lifted his head in Osamu’s direction once again. “He’s right, those are really good!” Kiyoomi exclaimed happily. Osamu looked pleased by the compliment and genuinely smiled at him.

The next thirty minutes were spent in almost complete silence safe for a few comments from the twins while the three men ate their plates. Then, Kiyoomi moved to make his way to his coat so as to grab his wallet but Osamu stopped him. “It’s on me,” he said.

Kiyoomi frowned, “What?”

Osamu smiled. “Ya helped me all night with waitin’ the tables, the least I can do is offer ya a meal in return.”

Kiyoomi wanted to argue but it was clear that Osamu wouldn’t budge so he quickly dropped the subject. Osamu is, after all, Atsumu’s brother — Kiyoomi was sure to have no chance at all at beating that amount of stubbornness.

“Say, Sakusa?”

Kiyoomi lifted his head, “Yeah?”

“Will I see ya again in the near future?”

Kiyoomi’s eyes widened in surprise. He knew that the question had a double meaning and that this was Osamu’s way of indirectly asking whether or not Kiyoomi planned to stay in Atsumu’s life. Kiyoomi couldn’t even be mad at being interrogated ; it seemed fair even, if one asked him.

Kiyoomi smiled, and hoped his confidence was showing on his face. “Yeah,” he replied surely. Osamu’s eyes widened a little in surprise and Kiyoomi used that opportunity to add to it, “I’ll be there as long as Atsumu wants me.”

Osamu stared at him in the eyes for a few seconds and it seemed that he found what he was searching for because then the twin hummed and nodded, smiling genuinely at Kiyoomi yet again. “Good,” was the only thing Osamu said before he stepped back behind the counter, leaving Kiyoomi alone in the backroom.

Kiyoomi stayed there for a few seconds before Atsumu’s voice startled him. “Ya ready ta go, Omi?”

“Yeah,” he chuckled. “I was gonna bring you your coat.”

Atsumu grinned. “Well, aren’t ya a gentleman.”

Kiyoomi snorted and grabbed both his and Atsumu’s coats before making his way to the door where the other man was standing. He handed Atsumu his coat and they made their way back into the main room of the restaurant where Osamu was finishing to wipe the last two tables that weren’t done.

Atsumu walked to his brother to hug him and Kiyoomi smiled as he watched them. Then, Osamu nodded politely at Kiyoomi and Kiyoomi did the same. “See ya, Sakusa.”

Kiyoomi smiled secretly, “See you.”

Atsumu looked at them weirdly for a few seconds but didn’t say anything and simply shrugged before he walked back to Kiyoomi’s side and both men made their way outside of the restaurant and into the cold winter night.

Snow started to fall at some point during their time inside of the restaurant given the thin white layer they could see on the road. It was still falling softly but it wasn’t disturbing, the sight was quite beautiful. Atsumu’s and Kiyoomi’s hands found themselves once again without any of them needing to utter a single word. Then, they started their walk back to Atsumu’s apartment in a comfortable silence.

Just like the day before, both men found themselves standing on Atsumu’s porch at the end of their night.

“That probably wasn’t the Saturday evenin’ ya expected,” Atsumu chuckled. “Didja at least have some fun?”

“I did,” Kiyoomi replied honestly, smiling. “I just wanted to spend time with you.”

Atsumu smiled in turn, his cheeks turning a bit pink. He looked beautiful. Then, “I heard ya and Samu talkin’ earlier.” Kiyoomi gasped softly and waited for Atsumu to continue. “Didja mean it?”

Kiyoomi’s smile never faltered when he replied, “Yes.” His voice was soft yet firm.

Atsumu grinned, “And if I want ya ‘till the end?”

Kiyoomi’s smile turned into a full grin at that, “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Atsumu’s honey eyes shined when they looked at Kiyoomi under the moonlight. As wordlessly as when they joined their hands earlier, the two men silently brought their faces closer. Their lips met in a first tentative kiss, as if they were trying to trigger their memories and the feeling it was to have the other’s lips touching their own.

But after a few tentative seconds, they pressed their lips together more strongly. This time, it felt as if they couldn’t get enough of each other. Atsumu brought his hands to Kiyoomi’s back in an attempt to bring the other man’s body impossibly closer to his while Kiyoomi brought his hands to Atsumu’s face and cupped his cheeks gently. Atsumu hummed in the kiss before deepening it, Kiyoomi happily reciprocating.

“Do ya wanna sleep at mine tonight?” Atsumu asked when they parted, eyes still fixed into Kiyoomi’s obsidian ones.

Kiyoomi smirked, “Just to sleep?”

Atsumu chuckled and smirked back, “Just to sleep.”

Kiyoomi’s smirk softened into a genuine smile before he replied, “Alright.”

Atsumu beamed and led him inside, where Mina was happily waiting for them.

Neither of them knew what the future would hold of course, but both of them were sure nonetheless that everything would be okay. They both spent the past ten years waiting for the moment they would finally be reunited, there was nothing that could separate them from now on. They’re each other’s right person, all the time.