Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

First of all. A special thanks to all of my friends who motivated me!

Now, let's get down to business to defeat the huns.

For this fanfiction, Ushijima and Tendou have been friends since forever because their parents were best friends. Mr. Tendou and Mrs. Ushijima were best friends while Mr. Utsui (Ushijima's dad) and Mrs. Tendou were best friends.

Note:

1. The name Hoshisusuri is explained on this post

2. I made the cover myself. *throws sparkles on me like Yoongi did*

Starry Eyes: Hanahaki AU x Hoshisusuri/Susurihoshi AU

Hanahaki: {Hana(flower) + Hakimasu(to throw up)}

Cause: Unrequited love

Symptoms: Lungs are affected. Favourite flower plants of the person they love growing in their lungs. The patient will start coughing out these flowers along with blood as they act like a blockage in the airways of the lungs and respiratory system.

The flowers will grow in size and number until they completely block the respiratory system and clog every the chest and throat cavity. Pain in the chest and throat. Eventual death.

Treatment: The best treatment is to confess love and being loved back. But, if that does not work, surgeries are widely available which will safely remove the plants and they will cease to grow. 

After effects: After the growth of flowers ceases, the lungs will remain in a weakened state. Complete recovery may take months or even years. If the patient opted for surgery, all emotions and feeling for the person of affection will be erased completely.

Hoshisusuri/Susurihoshi: {Hoshi(star) +Susurinaku(to sob)}

Cause: Unrequited Love

Symptoms: Eyes and optic nerves are affected. Bright, shining, illuminated crystals are formed in tear ducts. The colour of the light the crystals emit can be used to determine the favourite colour of the person who the patient loves.

These crystals flow out with tears triggered due to the disease. The crystals contain enough brilliance to completely flood the patient's vision with light. Though it may sound beautiful, this blinds the patient slowly.

The crystals increase in brightness as time passes, accelerating the damage. Usually it causes only a little deterioration in sight but in serious cases the patient may suffer from colour-blindness or even become completely blind.

Treatment: The best treatment is to confess love and to be loved back. But, the patient may opt for a surgery. Unlike Hanahaki, this surgery is not as readily available. It is much more delicate and may have a lot of complications if not done properly.

Aftereffects: After confession, the patient retains the damage done by the disease. Wearing glasses is recommended. 

[Excerpts from 'Guide To Love and it's Complications', a book in this AU]

Chapter Text

"To prevent further spread of the Novel Coronavirus, we will announce a nationwide lockdown from March 20 to
April 16 as of now." Combined gasps and groans went up in the Shiratorizawa student dorm.

The students, namely the boys' volleyball team, had been crowded around the T.V in the dorm room, impatiently awaiting the announcement of the government. Shirabu shrugged, "Well, atleast we get to stay home?" Semi nodded, "Yeah, but no volleyball, no going out. Jail."

Reon tried to be positive, "But hey! We all can always do individual practice right? We can all improve our tosses and speed with solo practice!" Their youngest, Goshiki just shrugged, "What'd ya say Tendou-san , Ushijima-sa- Ushijima-san?!" They all turned towards their ace who had an actual expression on his face, but it wasn't the one anyone ever wanted to see on their friend's face.

Tendou was the first one to speak up to the sad-looking boy. "Wakatoshi-kun? What happened?" "My mom went on a bussiness trip just a few days ago. A nationwide lockdown means she might not come home for a very long time."

They all gazed at him sadly. "But, won't her company have made arrangements for a long stay? You told us she was out for about four weeks right?" Ushijima nodded at Shirabu's words and spoke in his normal expressionless voice. "I'm just worried." Tendou patted his best friend's back. "I guess it's time we head back to our homes huh?"

Tendou  POV

Ever since they got the news about the lockdown, Tendou noticed that Wakatoshi had been even more silent than usual. He hadn't spoken a word after he said he was worried. Even now as they were packing their stuff from the dorms, he was silent and a slightly melancholy expression was on his face.

The redhead didn't like it when he was sad. It seemed as if the pain in his chest increased whenever Wakatoshi was sad too.

It wasn't long before the team had packed all their bags, ready to go home. But, not before one last match, because who knows when they'd get to play like that again.

The middle blocker jumped high as he spiked the ball and sent it flying into the opposite side of the court. But, Wakatoshi managed to score a one touch against him. "It like our positions have been reversed Wakatoshi!" He gave a rare grin. "I suppose." Even after a several volleys and 3 sets, the match still ended in a tie.

They pulled on their masks as they took leave of the gym. Tendou, ofcourse, hung behind as his beloved team went ahead, picking up their bags. Semi and Shirabu were still bickering while Reon tried to separate them. Goshiki took turns in peppering all his seniors with questions, jumping from Yamagata to Reon and the bickering married couple. But, he found a certain boy to be missing. "Wakatoooshii~ What're you doing back there?" He appeared upside down from Tendou's point of view, but he could see his friend's longing to play on the court sooner than later.

"Tendou-san you'll hurt your back like that." He walked to stand beside him as the redhead straightened up. "Ready to go home Wakatoshi?" He nodded his head silently.

It's now or never I suppose. 

"Wakatoshi~ You can tell me what's bothering you know?" Silence. He continued gently, "I wouldn't know exactly how you feel but you know that I know how it is to be worried. You know that." He looked downwards and inhaled sharply. "My grandmother went to stay at the countryside, she's with my extended family and already in an isolated place so I'm not that worried about her. I'm more worried about my mom. She's overseas, in South Korea. Not only is she not home but with the threat of a pandemic, it's simply not safe." He caught his breath and spoke in a smaller much quieter voice which was muffled by the mask he was wearing, "And there's no one home now.... I'll be all alone."

Tendou's heart clenched with a small pang of pain. This was one of the longest durations of time he had ever spoken, he must be really, no... Extremely worried. Silently, Tendou wished that he could help him somehow. "Aw, Wakatoshi... I'll try to visit you a lot okay? That way you won't be alone." "Thank you Tendou but you must stay safe. It is not safe to go out during this time." Betraying his slightly melancholy tone, his eyes turned into happy crescents.

His heart clenched, yet again. So much beauty. Such a rare smile. "Ah Waka-" Tendou patted the mask he was wearing. "-I'll stay safe, I'll be wearing a mask remember?" "Even so." He nodded, agreeing with the green-haired boy.

In the evening light, his face seemed to have a soft quality to it. If not for his downcast eyes, he would have looked happy. If only- Wait a second! What a splendid idea! But before I can tell Wakatoshi I should confirm it with my dad. So, instead of presenting his idea to Wakatoshi, Tendou offered to walk with him back to his home.

After dropping him at his home, the redhead jogged back home eagerly. He wanted to talk to his dad as fast as possible. Before long, he was smashing the doorbell and as his dad's footsteps rushed to open the door. "Satori!" He smiled widely, still dressed in his white overcoat. "Dad!" The smiling son threw his arms open for a hug. "Nuh uh young man! Go take a shower first!" All Tendou could do was smile playfully at his dad's mock anger and ran upstairs to take a shower.

A quick note, my dad is a doctor. More specifically, he is a pulmonologist. For those who don't know, a Pulmonologist is a physician who specialises in the respiratory system. And that, is the train of thought that struck him as he showered. As the water glided down his body, he wondered. If my dad specialises in the respiratory system, that would mean he would be on duty for the whole pandemic thing. He turned off the shower, having cleaned himself. The situation was sure to get worse and he would definitely be called to run tests and trials. I was proud to call him my dad no doubt, but I can't rule out the fear I had for him. Afterall, you can't help but fear what will happen to the people you love.

He stepped out of the shower and put on some clothes. Don't get it wrong, Tendou was all for running around in just shorts but his dad would probably throw a shoe at him and yell something his something along the lines of "Half-naked people will be shoe-d away."

Tendou jumped out of his room and leaped down the stairs to plop down at the table where the doctor-dad was reading newspapers. "Dad! How was your day today!" He immediately kept down the newspaper. "Ah well. What to say. Your dad is in demand these days-" He chuckled. "-With my specialisation and all I seem to be a valuable person." His son patted him on the back.

"Judging from that I guess you had a busy day. Should I cook today?" "Nah, you'll cook when I'm gone for days on end." The younger readhead sighed. I knew this was coming. His dad sighed too, as if on cue. "Listen, Satori. What I said might be true, I may be very very busy for the next weeks, or even months. I'm sorry if I have to leave you alone too often." He smiled sadly at his father. "I just want you to take care dad."

Suddenly, he exclaimed, "Oh by the way Mrs. Ushijima told me that she's in South Korea and might not return for a long time. Did Wakatoshi tell you guys?" Tendou facepalmed internally. I almost forgot! "Of course! We were watching the news from our dorm and he told us."

"Poor boy... He'll be all alone since his parents got divorced and... Well... You know the rest..." His son sighed in response. "I know dad... That's also why I wanted to speak to you about an idea. His mom is overseas for bussiness so-"

"Oh no... With the lockdown he'll be completely lonely...Why doesn't he come over and live with us instead for as long as its needed? I'll have to go out too so you guys will have the whole house to yourself!" "OH MY GOD PA! Thank you!" "He's staying with us and that's on periodt." He looked at the older man in surprise.

"Dad- How the hell do you always steal my ideas and lines?" He let out a hearty laughter. "Call that boy and ask him. I'll be here too." Tendou hugged him in response as he kept mumbling little "thank yous" under his breath.

He picked up my phone and dialed Wakatoshi's number. A robotic monotone voice rang out of the speaker. "Hello Tendou." "Wakatoshi, are you feeling lonely?"

~

Chapter Text

Ushijima  POV

"Hello Tendou." "Wakatoshi, are you feeling lonely?" Wakatoshi hesitated for a moment before answering honestly. "A bit." Since he was in his room, all the pictures of his and Tendou's family hung on his walls. Somehow, the memories kept him company. But, he didn't like how his voice echoed off an empty place. I feel so.... Strange. It made his eyes sting slightly.

Tendou's cheerful voice flowed out from my phone. Wakatoshi marvelled at how cheerful he always remains and how sweet and kind he is to everyone. "So, Wakatoshi, what do you say?" He frowned. Had I missed something? "I'm sorry, come again?" "I said, do you want to come live with me and Pa?" Hope creeped into his voice. "How long can I stay?" "For as long as want son." That was Mr.Tendou, Tendo- No that's confusing, Satori's father.

"I'd love to Mr.Tendou but I'd only be a burden to you. I should stay here." Satori's father insisted, "Oh no Wakatoshi! You won't be a burden, rather, we'll be happy to have you. Plus, you and Tendou can have fun you know? Go to your usual spots and whatnot because they're just by our home!"

The green haired boy couldn't help but smile at his kind words, nevertheless, he felt uncertain. Not because he didn't trust them, it wasn't that, no. He trusted them with his whole heart but, Wakatoahi feared that he'd cause them trouble. "So what do you say Wakatoshi-kun~?" That was Satori's voice! His eyes started stinging even more. He ignored the slight pain, after all it must be the early summer cold or something.

Wakatoshi continued to speak in a somewhat sheepish tone, "If it's not trouble for you, I'd like to come over."

He held my phone away from my ear as the father-son duo rejoiced. "We'll be glad to have you at home Wakatoshi! Just tell us when you can come." A few things rushed through his head. "May I come tomorrow at around 5 pm?" This time Satori answered, "I'll come to pick you up Waka! Also, pack your things for a few weeks or so okay?" I nodded along, "Hmm." "Okay Wakatoshi! See you tomorrow then! Goodbye for now." "Goodbye." The call beeped as they hung up.

I guess I better start packing.

~

"Wakatoshi-kun~ You sure you packed everything?" He nodded. "Did you take your volleyball shoes?" Wakatoshi glanced at his backpack. "Hmm." "Should I help you with the suitcase?" "I can take it, thank you."

Since he had to get a whole suitcase and a backpack for his things, Satori's dad had agreed to drive them home. Honestly, Wakatoshi was a bit concerned. Again, not because he mistrusted them, but because he felt like he'd be a burden. I know, I'm not supposed to feel this way because we've been friends for years but, I can't help it. "Ey, watcha thinking so deeply about Wakatoshi?" He was so engrossed in his thoughts that he hadn't even realised when he was sitting inside their car beside Satori.

"Uhm-" "Now now Satori. I know Wakatoshi's like a part of our family but it's rude to pepper him with questions." "It is okay Mr.Tendou. I don't mind Satori's questions." The red-haired man's smile was reflected in the car's mirror.

"So, Wakatoshi~ Tell us." "Are you sure I will not be a burden to you?" A long thin arm wrapped around his shoulders. "Awwwww~ You're still going on about that you doof? You know you don't have to worry. I mean, would you worry if it was me who was coming over?"

"No." If only I could think straight and muster a better answer. Unfortunately, Satori's arm wrapped around his shoulder made it slightly difficult. His skin felt oddly cold an the skin of his shoulder. That must have been what threw me off track. 

"So, you see? If you wouldn't be worried about helping anyone else, you need not be worried about helping yourself okay?" He nodded in affirmation. It was strangely fascinating to Ushijima, how the red head always knew what to say to comfort him. He didn't even need lengthy dialogues from Ushijima's side to keep a conversation going. That, was a relief because he knew he tended to think more than he spoke.

Since the distance wasn't so great, they reached Satori's home in just a few minutes. Walking into their house, it didn't feel like Wakatoshi was going to someone else's home, it was like walking into his own. He could bet Satori's words were responsible for the comforting feeling too.

"Ah Wakatoshi. It's been weeks since I've seen you smile." He glanced at Mr.Tendou as he continued to smile. "I see." "By the way, did you inform your mom and grandmother that you'll be staying here?" The green haired boy nodded. "I did."

Satori hopped beside his dad, "Ey Wakatoshi want some help keeping those?"He gestured to the luggage. Wakatoshi nodded. "Where will I be staying?" Tendou took his backpack and started walking up the stairs. "Ah, with me of course." Wakatoshi followed him up, carrying his rather lightweight suitcase. It didn't bother him whether they slept in one room or in really close proximity, he was used to it, grateful even.

With Satori and Mr.Tendou's help, Wakatoshi was settled in almost immediately. After a good shower and slipping into loose clothes, he could finally sit down. Satori-san's room was almost the same as the last time he had seen it in January. Tons of pictures decorated his large room. Most of them were pictures of them, their families and all the time they had spent together.

"Admiring the gallery, Wakatoshi?" A certain redhead leaned against the doorframe. Wakatoshi nodded as he walked up to a certain collage of old pictures. Wakatoshi looked on as he took the collage in his arms gracefully and flopped down beside him on the carpet. "Do you remember this collage Wakatoshi?" Wakatoshi peered into the large framed canvas his best friend was holding. "I do. I have one in my room, an exact copy of this one."

His smiled shone like sunshine,"We were so tiny back then! Especially you! Oh my god, your hands were so small you could barely hold that huge bottle of glue with two hands." Satori laughed while reminiscing his friend's small stature. Wakatoshi grinned at the pleasant memories. "I had to take your help in handling the glue because your hands were so much larger than mine." Tendou laughed heartily. "These pictures hold so many memories. Not only the memories of when they were taken but also of when they were photocopied and pasted onto canvas.... Right? Wakatoshi?" His tone was melancholy and so was his smile. It was bound to be. Wakatoshi nodded slowly as they looked at the pictures of their parents, pictures of the four people who had always been there for them.

"Ah, look-" Satori pointed to the first picture. "-It's that time when your mom and my dad were in college. When they still used to fool around and take pics in random photo-booths. Man, my dad's hair was even redder back then!"

Wakatoshi didn't think either of them would drop the gentle smile they had on their faces. "I can't believe that my mother would stick her tongue out like that." Bright laughter ensued at the remark as Wakatoshi smiled, although the melancholy feeling remained.

After that picture, his eyes danced around till they rested on a particularly eye-catching on one. "This is when my father and your mom were in High School, I presume?" The redheaded boy nodded. "Yeppers, that's the one." Wakatoshi gazed at his father in his volleyball jersey and Mrs. Tendou standing beside him with wet hair. "Ey hey, I think they were congratulating each other on winning their respective tournaments right?" I nodded. "Yes." "Ah well, I guess my mom must have won the swimming tournament then!" "Indeed. With her height, strength, speed and experience, it is certain that she would have, as you say, burnt out the competition."

Satori patted Wakatoshi's back as he laughed. "Burnt them indeed, burnt them indeed." He still had his hand on his friend's back as he gazed at the picture. Wakatoshi could tell he was sad too. The only reason Wakatoshi didn't show his feelings were because Satori-san was here. He was a reminder that there are happy memories too. Many many happy memories. But still, it wasn't long before the stinging sensation returned to his eyes.

"We both lost them along the way, didn't we?"

~

Chapter Text

Tendou  POV

If Tendou didn't have Wakatoshi with him, he would have cried looking at the pictures of his mom and Wakatoshi's dad. The only things stopping him from bawling his eyes out were the happy memories, of his family and of Wakatoshi's family.

"We both lost them along the way, didn't we?"

As soon as he uttered those words, Wakatoshi's head dipped and rested on Tendou's shoulder. "We-" His voice cracked. "-We did." A spear went flying through his chest. Tears threatened to spill as he wrapped an arm around Wakatoshi. "I just miss them so much..." Tendou wrapped another arm around Wakatoshi as he spoke that sentence.

"I miss them both, your dad and my mom." Wakatoshi turned himself slightly and wrapped both his arms around Tendou too. Seeing him so sad made Tendou's chest hurt. It felt as if a thorny vine had wound itself inside his ribcage. It took Tendou's entire willpower not to cry right then and there. When had our laughter turned into tears? He shivered unexpectedly.

Wakatoshi straightened a bit and looked at him with concern and regret. "I'm sorry Satori, I don't know why I'm being like this." He kept his head on Tendou's shoulders again and sighed. The pain in Tendou's chest increased a hundredfold. He inhaled slowly and suppressed a coughing fit before speaking. He gently caressed Wakatoshi's hair. "Hey~ You can tell me anything you know?"

The green haired boy drew in a shaky breath and nodded. "I miss dad. I miss Mrs. Tendou's gentle scolding.... I miss them..." His voice had a brittle edge to it which scraped his best friend's heart raw. "It's been a while since he-" He took a deep breath. "-Since he passed but it still feels so.... So new." Tendou couldn't help it when a tear slipped past his eyes. His small, silent voice brings back memories of when our parents were still alive. His eyes stung slightly from the renewed tears. Tendou drew Wakatoshi closer and whispered, "I know how you feel." "I know you do."

Wakatoshi and his family had been there when Tendou's mom passed away from FFI and they were with Wakatoshi when his dad passed away in an airplane crash overseas. It hurt even to think about it, it felt like these thoughts were an open door to an abyss from where he'll never return if he fell in. "It's such a strange co-incidence.... A pair of best friends died while the other lived."

He nodded as he wiped his eyes with the back of his hand, "I guess all we can do is move on." He tightened his grip around the red head while speaking, "Thank you for being there for me."

"I'm sorry Satori, I made the atmosphere melancholy." He slowly drew away from Tendou and sat up, having regained his stoic demeanor.

The red head laughed at his words and patted his head. "You don't need to apologise about anything Wakatoshi! There would be nothing to distinguish happiness if there wasn't any sadness you know?" He unraveled his arms from Wakatoshi as he drew away. "Indeed." He looked at the red head and, unexpectedly, hugged him again. Two words reached his ears, "Thank you." He wrapped his arms around Wakatoshi once again before letting him go. "Ah Wakatoshi, you're feeling affectionate today?" He nodded. Tendou noticed something as I looked at him, the area around his eyes was slightly reddish. Awe, poor baby.....

"Wakatoshi?" "Hmm?" "Your eyes are red, do you wanna wash 'em?" He raised his hand to his eyes and nodded. "They do sting. I'll take a look." He drew to his full height and went into the bathroom.

What a day! Huh? Wakatoshi came over and even showed a lot of emotions. It's been so long since he has shown emotions properly. I think, he started becoming more and more silent as his parent's divorce drew closer and closer. 

Tendou still remembered those times, Wakatoshi would come over whenever his parents fought too much. The red head still remember when he cried whenever they were alone. Then finally, when his parents divorced each other, he had become so stoic and silent, it felt like when his parents separated, he separated with a part of himself too.

Tendou felt another cold tear roll down his face.

Ushijima POV

Wakatoshi's eyes stung. Too much. They didn't feel like normal tears. He would be able to tell. I've shed enough of those myself. This feeling, it made him want to squeeze his eyes tight until whatever was stuck in the tear ducts popped out.

Of course Satori noticed the redness around his eyes, being the caring person he was. So, here he stood, in front of the bathroom mirror with the door closed behind him. Wakatoshi stared into his reflection, tears streaming down his face even though his expression was as stoic as ever. 

Dammit, stop crying. Why was I even crying? Oh yeah, because I decided to remember my dad and Mrs. Tendou. Why did I even have to recall that? He leaned against the cold tiled walls. Why did I have to recall that day. That day when their teacher had called Wakatoshi to the Principal's office. The day when he was informed, that he had lost his first teacher. Without ever saying goodbye.

A new wave of tears stung his eyes.

It was so much better when Satori had me wrapped in his arms. He relaxed slightly at the thought, but the stinging didn't go away. His fingers dug into the cold ceramic of the sink. Satori-san, so bright, so cheerful, so beautiful. Somehow, he tugged at Wakatoshi's heart. I wish I could always stay with him. He closed my eyes wistfully. If only he would love me-

No, stop. There's too many emotions here. Way too many. He could separate sadness , a bitter mixture of anger and pain and maybe a different one too. Desperation? Longing? Desperation to get this thing out of my eyes maybe. It's such a mess.

"Ouch-" He covered his eyes with his long fingers. "-The hell?" A sudden flash of light caused Wakatoshi to flinch. He blinked rapidly as his eyes tried to adjust to the sudden bright lights. Was there an anomaly with the lightbulb? Are the tears blocking the view?

He wiped his eyes and gazed at his moist hand.

His stomach twisted itself into a knot.

No. What the actual fuck? NO. Why me? Why now? Why this and- Why is it olive coloured?

Several fragments of bright, illuminated crystals lay on his hand. Then shone with a bright, radiant olive green colour. No wonder it hurt that much. If those things came out of my tear ducts, then there was only one explanation for it.

He broke out in cold sweat.

I,  Ushijima  Wakatoshi, have  Hoshisusuri .

~

Chapter Text

Ushijima  POV

For a disease so dangerous, I think I'm taking this rather too calmly. A twisted smile formed on his face. Wow, look, I'm in love. Wakatoshi could see his reflection scowl back at him. But why like this?

He sighed loudly as the crystals slowly disintegrated. Of course I had to fall in love on top of everything. Since what is done has been done, who likes this colour? Maybe I should ask Satori? The olive looks like my hair and eyes to be honest. There were too many thoughts in his head, like always. Way too may to speak out loud.

"Wakatoshi~? Are you okay? Do you need help?"

The green haired boy didn't realise he was shivering until it stopped. Strange, how a single voice can soothe over the frayed ends of his nerves. "It's okay Satori. I'm okay." I should probably get out of here.

With that thought, he promptly marched out of the bathroom. "Ah Wakatoshi! I thought I heard you groan. What happened?" Should I tell him? Probably.... Probably not.... "It was nothing.... But, I was wondering..." Satori's ears perked up, "Go ahead?" Seeing no purpose in running in circles, "What's your favourite colour?" The red head shrugged in return. "I don't knoooow... Olive green maybe. Why'd you ask?"

Wait what?

"Just curious."

To be honest, he didn't look convinced.

Tendou  POV

Why the hell would he ask my favourite colour after crying? Either he was dead serious or something's really off. The second one would be more probable for a normal person but then again this is Wakatoshi we're talking about. Rules don't apply. Nevertheless Tendou nodded along with his answer, "Okay Waka. Whatever you say~"

Before the red head could even inquire further, his dad's voice resounded. "Boys! Come down for dinner it's 9!" How cliché! the dad interrupts the plot reveal!

Wakatoshi just looked at him before saying, "Shall we proceed?" Tendou nodded, "Yep."

The boys fluttered down the stairs like the graceful butterflies they were and presented themselves before the great Dad. "Reporting for duty O' Father of mine!" Tendou saluted his dad as they approached the dining table.

Mr. Tendou just nodded, "Acknowledged. Also... You might ask why I called you late it's because... I saw you guys were having a moment back there so I didn't interrupt." A small 'oh' left Wakatoshi's mouth. We didn't even notice him what the hell?

As he sat down on the chairs around the dining table, Satori's Dad started speaking. "Anyways, it's been a long day, you guys should eat fast and go sleep. I'll need to leave pretty early so I need to take rest too." As a reply Wakatoshi inquired, "Tendou, when exactly will you leave?"

"I'll probably go to the hospital at 5 in the morning." As if reading his thoughts, "And no, Wakatoshi, you will not go on a walk tomorrow. You should take rest. Sleep in, take a break." Tendou smiled to himself. After all, prediction might be an acquired skill but his dad was particularly good at it.

The taller boy nodded along although hesitantly, "Okay Mr.Tendou." Mr.Tendou smiled at him, "Wakatoshi~ It's okay to take a break ya' know?" He seemed to loosen up at that.

"Now shall we eat?"

~

"We ate a lot today didn't we Wakatoshi~?"

The pajama-clad boy nodded. "Mr.Tendou makes great Hayashi rice." "It's your favourite isn't it?" He smiled a bit. "Indeed"

"Okay now, come on-" Satori patted the large space near him on the bed. "-come here and sleep." He complied as he walked across the room and flopped down beside the red head on the bed. "Satori, I hope you are comfortable." Satori's heart skipped, hearing his friend's considerate words. He seemed so concerned and genuine despite his intimidating and stoic demeanor. Even though they had multiple sleep overs over the span of years, Wakatoshi had never ceased to ask whether his friend was comfortable.

"Wakatoshi~" Satori wanted to cup his face in his hands and give him a huge hug. "You're so kind Wakatoshi... Why do people say you're insensitive?" "Because I'm blunt." He said that.... Bluntly... Tendou grinned at his friend. "That's honesty, it's necessary. It doesn't change the fact that you're a nice person." Wakatoshi smiled at his best friend, "It is heartening to know someone sees me in that way." So cute!

Looking into Wakatoshi's eyes, Satori could feel the room swirling away, leaving only his friend. He bet his smile was the dopey-est smile ever because Wakatoshi covered his mouth and giggled. Oh shit I'm gonna die- "Satori! You look drunk."

The red head poked the taller boy's cheek playfully. "I feel giddy when you laugh Waka~ It's your fault for being adorable!" Wakatoshi covered his mouth with both hands as he laughed, "No, you!" Tendou wasn't about to give up, "Not me! You!" "No, you, Satori!" Tendou paused for a moment. "Ah~ I noticed right now but what did you just call me Wakatoshi?"

Ushijima's eyes widened slightly, "My apologies! I used your first name because it would be confusing to call both your father and you by Tendou... I'm sorry that it sounded disrespe-"

"No-no no! It's al-righty Wakatoshi~ I... I like it." Satori punctuated his sentence with an adorable smirk. As much as Wakatoshi's, rather surprisingly, sweet nature made Satori's chest hurt, he always wanted more of it. Hearing his first name from Wakatoshi's lips made his heart do cartwheels inside his ribcage. But no matter how many times he asked himself, why? He couldn't answer it. OH MY GOD HE'S SMILING AGAIN! THIS DOESN'T HELP AT ALL- "I'm glad" Wakatoshi's voice and gentle expression graced Satori's ears and eyes.

To hide the unidentified panick-y emotion inside him, Satori smirked in his signature style, "Hey Wakatoshi~ Why don't you smile and talk like this with everyone huh?" His friend looked like he was thinking as he gathered up one side if their blanket at his legs. "I don't know. You, the team and a few others are the only ones I am comfortable enough with."

All Satori could do at this statement was nod along as he thought about it. Of course, Wakatoshi was stoic most of the time and really blunt, but when he did show his emotions more, he could be the sweetest person ever. A yawn distracted satori from his thoughts. "Satori, I'm going to sleep. Turn off the lights please." He glanced at Wakatoshi who had lied down and was now wrapped in their blanket. He nodded as he reached to switch off the lamp.

Having switched off the lights Satori slipped into the shared blanket. He could feel the warmth from Wakatoshi's body. Since it was still a bit cool, he decided to cuddle up against his friend. Satori tucked himself behind Wakatoshi and whispered against his ear, "Good Night Waka~" A shiver went down Wakatoshi's spine as he whispered back, already drifting into sleep.

~

The first ray of sunshine fell on satori's face as the Sun rose higher. Judging from the amount of sunlight it was probably seven in the morning, long after his dad had left for work. But that thought wasn't on Satori's mind at that point.

Though his vision was blurry he could feel a certain someone's arms wrapped around him with his head resting on Satori's chest. His best friend's warmth seeped into his heart.

His lips curved into a cheerful crescent as he surveyed his friend's sleeping gentle face. satori wrapped both his arms around Ushijima's shoulders and pulled him closer. He looks so soft and innocent. 

Ushijima's sleeping expression had always captivated satori. It was rather interesting to see how one's demeanor changed when they were completely at peace. It was captivating. It was captivating how Ushijima's expression differed so much from when he was awake. He looked vulnerable but at ease, perfectly comfortable. All of a sudden, Satori's back arched as his body was racked by a short coughing fit.

He clamped a hand over his mouth, preventing any sound from escaping him. A sharp pain pierced his chest for a second. What the fuck? I made sure to not catch a cold or interact much with anyone... If I get the virus because I touched my damn face I swear I'll go feral. An irritated expression crossed his face as inched as far away from Ushijima as possible. Just in case, I shouldn't let him get infected too. Reluctantly, the red head had to untangle himself from the taller boy's warm grasp and inch away.

I'll have to get this checked out.

~

Chapter Text

Ushijima POV

It was habitual for him to wake up at five in the morning, so it was of no surprise that he woke up much before he was supposed to. You might think waking up and staying in bed is great right? It isn't. It just gave him time to worry.

He stared at the room's door. Who can it be? And what does it mean that Satori's favourite colour is Olive Green? It can't be can it? His stomach twisted in anticipation. It didn't show on his face but he was scared. He was afraid of all that could happen. I can go blind if I don't find the person and confess.... Why don't I know? Aren't we supposed to know who we fall in love with? Why is this all so confusing?

He turned around to face his sleeping best friend as his anxious thoughts ran rampant. He tilted his face upwards to look at Satori. Just looking at him slowed down his racing heart, like a calming wave. In the heat of the moment, he lowered himself slightly and wrapped both his arms around Satori and rested his head on his chest.

satori's cool radiance seemed to soothe Ushijima's feverish temperatures as soon as he tucked himself beside the redhead. So soothing... So patient... If only- Ushijima's thoughts were interrupted by a slight movement from the red head. Shit! He quickly closed his eyes and pretended to sleep. Even with his closed eyes, he could feel Satori stirring, slowly waking up. A stifled yawn reached his ears. Then everything went still as two arms wrapped around his shoulders.

Ushijima had never been good with words but he doubted anyone could define this feeling with a definite idea. It felt so soothing, a certain cool shadow shielding him from the burning glare of the sun, one could say. In all his honesty, he'd prefer not to ever let this feeling go away. But, he couldn't let his expression fluctuate now, for some unknown reason he didn't want to let Satori know he was awake. He just wanted to enjoy his soothing presence.

So, when Satori's body was racked with cough and he pried himself away, Ushijima could only wish for him to come back. He could swear, as Satori turned away from him though because of concern, a solitary crystaline tear slipped out of his eyes. He wanted him back, close to him even if it was for a moment more. Like one would wish for a lover to stay back. As soon as he thought that, Ushijima wondered why he'd made that comparision.

Both fortunately and unfortunately, Ushijima's reverie couldn't last long. Another cough rippled from Satori's throat, and it didn't sound good. The taller boy was concerned, very very concerned about his friend. He felt the satori getting off the bed. Slow footsteps thumped out of the room.

Finally, Ushijima opened his eyes to look. He stared at the small dent in the bundle of blankets left by Satori, concern flooding his mind.

Is he okay?

Tendou POV

The coughing just got worse in the five minutes? Two? One minute he had been awake. The prickly sensation had turned into a distinct stabbing sensation, as if a dozen small knives were scrapping against his respiratory cavities. Like a bunch of Togas scraping away my respiratory system... Ha.. Satori didn't have much time to appreciate his joke before the feeling got even worse.

What the fuuuuuuuuuuccckk? Whyyyyy? Why now?

He stumbled out of the room and headed downstairs to get some cough syrup. That is, before he felt his gag reflex activate. He gripped the railings, trying not to gag. What? The fuck? His incoherent thoughts didn't help him at all but somehow he managed to slip into a bathroom on the ground floor.

The pain had gotten even worse, but now it was accompanied by something fuzzy inside his throat. The fuzzy thing was moving upwards. He coughed, again and again until it felt like his insides were being scrapped raw. But he didn't care, he was too desperate to unblock his wind passage to care about anything. He wasn't choking too badly, but it was enough to panic him. If it was what he thought it was (which he prayed not to be) he would be doomed. He doubled over, lowering his face near the sink. He coughed once and the scraping sensation amplified. In a few seconds his body was racked by coughing fits. He closed his eyes and tried to dislodge the debris in his throat.

Pop

It was gone. The feeling, the debris. It was gone. He opened his eyes. What he saw, was definitely not something he hoped to see.

A small bundle of flower petals lay in the sink, splattered with small droplets of blood. The crimson of the blood almost blended in with the bright red and pink of the petals. He stared at the sink for a few moments more before grabbing some toilet paper and wiping off the mess. He disposed of the petals and paper discreetly. As he did this, a thought struck him.

They're.... Carnations... I remember those... They're- They're Wakatoshi's favourite flowers...... Pink and red carnations.....

Satori fell into a stupor. One way to discern the identity of the person of affection is to know their favourite flower. And the red head knew no one else who loved these flowers.

It seemed rather evident, that Satori was indeed, in love with his best friend.

~

Chapter Text

Unknown POV

The Covid-19 cases were being pretty well handled in South Korea, so it was much safer than I expected it to be. I didn't actually mind when I learnt that I'll be stuck here for as long as the lockdown continues. Who I was worried about was Wakatoshi. I couldn't stop thinking about how lonely he would be. With everything the doctors and therapists were saying about the adverse effects of being alone in such trying times made it even more worrisome. So, when he called me saying that he's going to stay with Satori, I was beyond relieved.

I could do my job while at peace. After the surgery, in a week or so, the company's work will be done here. Ofcourse I hadn't told anyone except my close colleague about it, not even Wakatoshi. Especially not him, I don't want him to stress out further. That would be horrible for him with everything that has happened and everything that will happen. However, my conscience was being torn here. Should I value my son's happiness or his trust? Both of those are important. He deserves to know, he's an understanding person.

Mrs. Ushijima stared at the phone sitting on her table. She was troubled, at the least. She wanted to tell Wakatoshi of course, but she was afraid if how it might affect him. After all, it hadn't even been eight months since his father passed away and those wounds take a lot of time to just close. She knew she couldn't burden him with the knowledge of how close he came to loose both of his parents. But she also knew how much he appreciated blunt honesty and truth.

She was nervous, ofcourse, very very nervous. It was rather unnatural for Mrs. Ushijima to feel this way. Her anticipation had settled into a pit at the bottom of her gut as she stared into the dreaded future. She knew her son's reaction would be blunt and probably expressionless, but she hoped that he wouldn't worry too much after hearing what she had to say. Also... He wouldn't like being lied to or kept from the truth. With that thought, she dialled the phone number labelled "Wakatoshi".

The ringing flowed out of the speaker and rang on and on until- "Hello?" She drew a long breathe, planning to fit in as many words as she could. "Wakatoshi, please listen without interrupting. I don't think I can repeat this again. I wanted to tell you-" She faltered. "-I wanted to tell you that...... I didn't come to South Korea only for my business trip. I... I didn't know how to break it you but... I came here, to get surgery for Hanahaki too..." The usually expressionless woman let a tear slip from her eyes. "I really loved your dad...... And he still loved me... But neither of us realised it ofcourse..." She coughed loudly, having spoken for longer than permitted. "In time..... A few symptoms began to show themselves... Cough, pain in the chest and respiratory organs."

As she paused to catch her breathe Wakatoshi tried to interject, "M-" "No Wakatoshi... Please listen first. A week before your father passed away.... He told me about how he'd been experiencing the pains and symptoms and-" Her voice cracked suddenly and a sniffing sound ensued from the receiver. Her voice softened by a degree. "He told me he coughed up a foxglove flower..... My favourite ones...." She smiled sadly as another tear went past her expressionless façade.

"You know what had happened to me? That bad 'throat infection' which I had months ago? That wasn't a simple throat infection.... That was Hanahaki." She coughed again. "Mine were wisteria flowers.... His favourite..." Her sad smile twisted into a line as wobbly as her voice, "We were supposed to reconcile...."

This time she knew she heard much more than a sniff from the receiver. "I had the surgery the day I came here... I should be fine in a couple of days more..." Her son's voice came out all cracked with distortion, "Does it still hurt?" She held back tears. "My feelings for you father are gone.... But my regrets.... My regrets are still there." She let another tear slip, then another and another.

"I'm so sorry Wakatoshi...."

"Mrs. Ushijima.... I'm sorry too.."

Her tears stopped in their tracks as realisation washed over her, "Wait a second- This is not Wakatoshi, is it?"

~

Chapter Text

Tendou POV

Coming to terms with the fact that you're about to die and in love with your best friend at the same time, isn't what one wants to be served for breakfast. Alas, Satori was just unfortunate.

What breaks with a crickety-crack? My fucking respiratory system of COURSE! He was practically screaming internally. He had decided to tell his dad, but later on. Not too late, but just a few days later, when he relaxes. A stressed doctor doesn't need to be worried about a dying son, after all, he had more important lives to save. At least, that's what Satori thought. Thinking and thinking, he didn't notice Ushijima approach him and gently tap his shoulder.

"Satori, I'm going to the washroom, please pick up any call that I may not be able to receive." He held forward his phone to the redhead. "Sure~ Wakatoshi!"

As the taller boy walked away with a health magazine, Satori stared at his phone. Was he expecting a call? The answer came a moment later.

His phone was ringing with the name "Mom" flashing on the screen. Obviously, Satori picked up the call. But, before he could barely state his name, Mrs. Ushijima silenced him. Her tone was strained with urgency as if she had been rehearsing this speech for weeks.

"Wakatoshi, please listen without interrupting. I don't think I can repeat this again. I wanted to tell you-" Satori heard her voice break. "-I wanted to tell you that...... I didn't come to South Korea only for my business trip. I... I didn't know how to break it you but... I came here, to get surgery for Hanahaki too..." A pause. What?! WHAT!? "I really loved your dad... And he still loved me... But neither of us realised it of course..." A coughing spell gave Satori time to think. But... But why? Mrs. Ushijima let me speak.. Please! He felt the need to speak out but somehow he knew that if he interrupted now, her words would never see day. "In time..... A few symptoms began to show themselves... Cough, pain in the chest and respiratory organs."

As she paused to catch her and he tried to interject, "M-" "No Wakatoshi... Please listen first. A week before your father passed away.... He told me about how he'd been experiencing the pains and symptoms and-" Her voice cracked. Satori couldn't help but feel his heart crack along with the dam of sadness holding him in place. This person, she had helped him. She had been there for him when his mother had passed on. Her voice softened by a degree. "He told me he coughed up a foxglove flower..... My favourite ones...." Satori felt a sad smile in her voice.

"You know what had happened to me? That bad 'throat infection' which I had months ago? That wasn't a simple throat infection.... That was Hanahaki." She coughed again. "Mine were wisteria flowers.... His favourite..." Her voice wobbled like a newborn lamb. "We were supposed to reconcile...."

This time, more than a small sniff left Satori's mouth as a tear left his eyes. "I had the surgery the day I came here... I should be fine in a couple of days more..." Satori held back years as he spoke, "Does it still hurt?" Mrs. Ushijima spoke again, "My feelings for you father are gone.... But my regrets.... My regrets are still there."

"I'm so sorry Wakatoshi...."

"Mrs. Ushijima.... I'm sorry too.."

"Wait a second- This is not Wakatoshi, is it?"

Satori's face crumpled into an apologetic expression even though Mrs. Ushijima couldn't see him. "I'm so sorry Mrs. Ushijima... I should have told you earlier but it's not Wakatoshi-" "Who is it?" "I'm really sorry Mom-" "Mom? Satori? Is that you?" Satori sighed in apology as a nervous twisting gripped his gut. "Yes." He heard only a sigh in return.

"Ah... I was beginning to worry that it was someone else... It's okay dear." Satori let out a breath he didn't know he was holding in. He lowered his voice, thoughts rushing through his head, "Mom... Do you want me to tell Wakatoshi?" A pause ensued. "When you mention it.... It doesn't sound like a good thing to say as of now...." Satori low-key agreed with her. "I agree....." He kept his silence for a while before Mrs. Wakatoshi spoke. "Satori? Do you want to say something? Anything bothering you?"

Oh what isn't bothering me? He wondered. He thought. He calculated everything that could go wrong. "When you mention it.... I do have something to share too...." Her anticipation was tangible through the phone, "And what might that be?"

"My mom once told me.... That sharing your sadness helps decrease it... So, even if it's selfish and I'll probably get you worried.... I'll tell you.." She was definitely worried now if she wasn't before, "Satori.... What is it?" "I have Hanahaki. They're red and pink carnations, but worst of all... It's for Wakatoshi."

Ushijima POV

Going to the bathroom was just an excuse. Well, mostly at least. I saw an article based on Hoshisusuri and Hanahaki somewhere in here. I should be able to get some help. To his pleasure, Wakatoshi was correct. Apparently, doctors had made new discoveries in this rather mysterious frontier. He could have checked on the net too but, he found the magazine to be more reliable.

So here he was, sitting on the toilet seat while flipping through pages of the magazine. Hoshisusuri... Hoshisu- There it is. His brow crinkled with concentration.

"Hoshususuri is one of the most mysterious diseases in the world beside the more known Hanahaki. It affects the eyes and causes crysta- " Well that's the generic stuff. He skipped the introduction to read more about the effects and cure. "The only known cures are confessing love and being loved back. Either that or opting for a surgery to remove a large crystalline growth inside the tear ducts which seems to be the origin of the glimmering tears." 

He strained his eyes to read the text on the page. "But, the surgery has a 30% chance of leaving the patient unable to cry much as the surgery restricts the tear ducts." Well that's not so bad. He blinked several times before reading further. "Aftereffect are permanent and cannot be reversed with existing medication and the patient is advised to use prescription glasses. They might find it difficult to focus on one object for long periods of time, read small text or develop mild myopia or hyperopia. This poses a problem for athletes-" 

The mention of sports caught his interest. "This poses a problem for athletes. For example, without sports glasses, a badminton player might not be able to locate the shuttle or a football player might misjudge distance and speed of a ball." To say the least, Wakatoshi's heart sunk into a dark pit as he read even further. "The dip in patient's vision's strength starts with the first tear. They might have trouble reading properly and will probably have to strain to read small texts."

He felt as if he was sinking in boiling water, held down by a huge weight tied to his chest. He felt breathless and wanted to thrash in frustration. As he struggled to get his emotions under control, he had a terrible realisation. If he didn't get treated and went blind, he would never be able to play volleyball again.

~

Chapter Text

Tendou POV

He did it. He told her. His heart's pace rivaled that of the fastest falcon as the silence stretched on. "Are you sure?" He answered honestly, "Yes." As expressionless as ever, one would say, after all this was Mrs. Ushijima. However, this wasn't the 'Mom' he knew. This wasn't a wall he ever had to scale. This silence, this façade, this... This hurt.

"Satori..." Her voice felt like a cold clasp. "I need time to think." A clamp squeezed his ribcage as soon as he heard her tone. He barely managed to choke out an 'okay' before she cut the call. Did that just happen? Satori didn't know what to think, or how to act. He felt odd even hurt, but he knew the most prevalent emotions in him: guilt and regret.   

He gently placed Wakatoshi's phone on the table but he wasn't so gentle with himself. He kept repeating Mrs. Ushijima's words over and over again inside his head. Had he done the wrong thing? Shouldn't he have told her? Doesn't she love him anyways? Guess I'll be put to the test yet again. He sighed silently, stuck within his own mind. 

Thinking to himself, he came to the realisation; He was going to die in a few weeks at most if he doesn't confess, but Mrs.Wakatoshi's tone had rattled him way too much to even think remotely about confessing. Without knowing he had gripped the armrests of the chair so tightly that his knuckles had turned white.

Unable to cry or act or let out his emotions in any way, his eyes were open wide and a bead of sweat rolled down his temple even in the chilled weather. It seemed as if his worries would soon cause him to collapse; They would cause him to implode. Every single sound stood out more. Fucking sensory overload again.

Of course he heard Wakatoshi's footsteps echoing a few meters away. Collecting the scattered pieces of his mind he tried to collect himself before Wakatoshi noticed anything, but nothing seemed to escape his watchful eye. "Satori? You look really tense... Is something wrong?" This is where I say it isn't it? This is it?  "I don't know.... Wakatoshi...."  Satori could see his worried glance and nervous gaze. There was something off about him too. He seemed way too jittery for his usual self. "Wakatoshi? Is there something going on with you?" Wakatoshi straight into Satori's eyes. 

A new wave of emotions hit him with double the speed of a spiked volleyball. His eyes, oh his eyes! They were deep like a rainforest, expressive but shielded. Slowly, his best friend nodded his head. "Satori... There's something that I realised but.... I don't think I should say it in fear of ruining our friendship. I am.... I am-" "Scared?"

It couldn't be what was on Satori's mind but now he had to say it. He had to. There was no way now. No way out. "Scared that you'll ruin what you have and it won't ever come back to you?" A shadow passed over Wakatoshi's face, closing off his reflective eyes yet again. He started speaking again, "And even th- even though I want to tell you Satori-san, I can't find any means to speak it out loud and like you said I'm... I'm terribly scared to tell you so I'm visibly stalling now....." Satori wanted to scream. He wanted to shout that no matter what Wakatoshi did he would never ruin their friendship, they would bend but never break. 

Wakatoshi's silence stretched on for a few seconds as he sat down beside the redhead. "I'm scared.... Satori..." Satori took one of his hands in his own but the taller boy tensed at his the touch of his cold fingers. A cough tugged at Satori's throat. The redhead had a sideway view of his friend's face and he knew his expression didn't hold much insight into his emotions yet, his eyes let go of a singular crystallized tear.

Ushijima POV

"Wakatoshi?" He could hear Satori's brittle voice through the blurry haze when he quickly wiped away the crystal tear. His heart was twisted in pain as did his stomach, but not from the small stream of crystals coming out from his eyes but from how much pain it obviously caused Satori. 

A cool, slender hand reached out with a soft handkerchief, wiping away the crystals. Wakatoshi was short of words yet again, when he needed them the most. Yet they were always hidden away within the depth of his mind, unwilling to show themselves. There were only a few things he could say and keep repeating, "I'm sorry Satori.... I'm so scared.."

Tendou kneeled front of him so his hands rested on Wakatoshi's lap, holding his hands in their protective shell like a barrier from harm. "Wakatoshi.... " He smiled despite his eyes and mouth twitching in protest. "It's okay to be...." Wakatoshi felt a cooling hand press on his cheek as Satori cupped his face with a hand. Leaning into his touch, he knew he had little to fear but still, he'd loose all this if he came clear. So much doubt, so much hurt, so much fear.... It's too much... I need to speak...

"Satori-" He was cut off by Satori, coughing and tearing away from him. His olive eyes followed the older boy as he pressed a hand on his mouth to suppress a cough. His eyes further widened in fear as small specks of red appeared on his hand. "Aww shit! It looks like fucking ketchup!" The red head angrily muttered under his breath as Wakatoshi looked at him, stunned. "Satori.. Who is it?" Satori chuckled in a wounded way, "Straight to the point huh?"

"Tell me... please." It was bad enough that his emotions were all over the place, but this was like a whole another level of worse. He could see the doubt in Satori's eyes maybe even mistrust. "If I come clear... you might hate me Wakatoshi." Satori sat beside him and, having wiped away the blood on his hands, held up a single torn petal. The red-head whispered, "It's a carnation." The taller boy felt a nagging sensation that he knew who was the cause of  Satori's hanahaki but he refused to acknowledge that possibility. He would never.

His bestfriend looked straight into Wakatoshi's eyes. Satori spoke clearly without letting doubt seep into his voice. "You." The small voice in Wakatoshi's head chimed, "Well he just did."  Just one word. Yet so hard to register in his head. "Par...Pardon?" Wakatoshi's confused expression seemed to amuse Satori. "You are the person of my affection Wakatoshi. No lie, just truth."

He isn't joking. Isn't this what you wanted? Now tell him yours too.

"Tendou I- " Before he could speak any further Satori  pressed a finger to his lips, silencing him. "Tell me who caused your Hoshisusuri first... Before saying anything. Just know that you don't need to accept my love. A confession is enough to save my life." His tone was stern but not harsh as if he wanted nothing but Wakatoshi's well-being. "Whoa big guy- You're crying?" Only then did Wakatoshi notice the small actual tear rolling down his cheek. He finally found the courage to speak, "Yeah.. I'm slightly overwhelmed that's all." Satori looked at him with a concerned gaze. "It's okay.. I'm sorry too.... Now who is it that caused those crystal tears?" 

As an answer to that, Wakatoshi reached out for Satori's hand. He smiled briefly through a haze of emotions. "You of course." There was barely a second of silence before Satori screeched. "I WAS WORRIED FOR NOTHING?" It was now Wakatoshi's turn to be concerned but he nodded nevertheless. Satori ran his free hand through his red locks and slumped back while giggling deliriously. "Ow man... With the threat of death and long lasting vision impairments gone it kind of feels like or maybe a bit... Uhhh-"

Wakatoshi chimed in, "Funny? Lighthearted? Unnecessarily angsty?" Satori nodded in compliance, "Yeppers. That's what."

Wakatoshi noticed his easy smile and relaxed composure as soon as Satori said that. Wakatoshi looked at his and Satori's intertwined hands as a small question took form. 

In a rather innocent tone Wakatoshi spoke, "Satori.... What are we now? I mean... We aren't just friends I hope... We're more? Perhaps?"

Satori smiled in return and ruffles his hair. "That's right you potato. We're boyfriends now!" Boyfriends... Such a sweet word. Wakatoshi liked it. Before he could think further a certain nickname irked him. "Satori I am a human being and not a vegetable."

Satori looked at his face blankly. "What?"

"What?" "

I think we both maybe-"

"Equally dumb?"

A second of silence barely lasted before they erupted in peals of laughter with Satori draping himself on Ushijima. 

They didn't ever want this happiness to end. Why would they? But of course, they had to inform their parents of their newly formed relationship. 

~

Chapter Text

Communicating about something with people with same views has always been convenient. No disagreement and no 'bumps'. Whereas, discussing something with someone who has a different opinion can be scary at times. However, introducing your boyfriend to your parents who may or may not be against your relationship is on a whole another level of scary. At least for Tendou and Ushijima it was.

Tendou POV

It had been around two weeks since Tendou and Ushiijima had confessed their feelings for each other. Mrs. Ushijima hadn't called since the 'fateful' day. However, the day of confrontation was drawing nearer.

Dad was home today. For real this time. This wasn't a 'come back to eat dinner, sleep and go back to work' thing. He was actually at home for a day instead of practically living in the hospital like he had been doing for the past two weeks now.

Tendou could see his father's deep red hair peeking out from behind the newspaper the doctor was reading. He knew his dad was tired but the nagging sensation that the correct time has already passed never left him. He felt as if he needed to inform him right then and there. Or maybe he just felt guilty that he hadn't told his beloved dad about such an important thing in his life. The redhead inched closer to his father until he was right next to him.

It's going to be easy... I know it... He's my dad! The most open minded and person in the world. He accepts and pushes for the best, like Wakatoshi... He'll understand... Then Mrs. Ushijima will understand too! Right?

Then why am I so afraid?

"Dad..." His eyes were greeted by the bright brown of his father's eyes. But they seemed to be lacking in the usual playful light. As if the circles of darkness around his soul's windows had sucked out all of his life. He knew these past weeks had been a huge toll on his father but this was no time to turn back.

His father tried his best to stretch his mouth into a smile. "Fire away Satori." "Dad what would you do if I had hanahaki?" Mr. Tendou froze almost instantaneously. he seemed more concerned now. "Satori... What's up?" Tendou took a deep breath. "Just tell me." "Obviously, I'd try to find the person who caused that and have you confess to her. That way you won't have to suffer."

There was something off about the way he spoke but Tendou continued."Dad... I had hanahaki." The only discernible change in the older person's expression was that of slight disappointment. ""Who was it? Who was the one who caused it?" The doctor's son had a gut feeling that his father already knew who it was but, he spoke anyways. "Wakatoshi."

As the disappointment on his father's face grew, so did the newly opened hole in his heart. With a deep sigh, Mr. Tendou spoke again, "So Satori... Did the Hanahaki stop?" "It did."

"That should be enough then. A confused look crossed Tendou's face. His father spoke again but with a slightly relieved expression, "What I mean is that, since the Hanahaki stopped after confession, there is no need for you to be in a relationship! You can choose a girl now!"

Tendou's eyes widened slowly with equal parts realisation and horror. "But dad.... I want to be with him." A shadow passed over Mr. Tendou's face. "No. My son will never be in a relationship with a man and that is final. This is just a phase you'll grow out of." Mr. Tendou's words were absolute. Simple, but absolute.

The horror and fear tore down Tendou's house of cards as his worst fears were coming true. It hurt. He knew he'd be torn apart from that one person whom he managed to stick with through thick and thin, some situations unbeknownst to even his father. That knowledge, that unchangeable flow of fate seemed to pierce Tendou's heart and soul over and over again. His father's lips moved soundlessly. What had I expected? Look at what happened.

Ushijima POV

He knew from the beginning. This wasn't going to go anywhere. He would loose, like always.

Cursing his own blunt words he tried to reason with his mother. He had told her everything about having hoshisusuri and how his confession to Tendou stopped his tears, literally. However, just a partial cure seemed to be enough for his mother. She seemed to just want a bandage for his physical wounds but decided never to plug the gaping hole in his heart.

For about the fifteenth time in that phone call, his mother cruelly stated, "What you are doing is wrong, give up on this toxic dream. Wakatoshi you can date any girl you like but being with a man is sinful." His throat was parched by now from saying the same thing over and over in the blunt lifeless tone he hated so much.

"Mother, it will not change the fact that I love him." It was a hopeless battle. Wakatoshi knew that of course but, simply not telling your only living parent and then getting caught later was just as bad. So, when the line beeped and the final decision rang in his ears not for the first time in his life he felt lost. He needed a helping hand. Anyone would do but, there was no one now.

If only we had succeeded .

It was only a matter of time before Mrs. Ushijima returned home and took away Wakatoshi with her. Not a day had passed when Mr. Tendou revoked all means of contact Tendou had to talk to Wakatoshi. Not a single day went by where they could talk except the rare meetings of glances and gazes during online classes.

In a rush of loneliness and distance, the year passed by. The Ushijima family moved to the other end of Japan. High School went by in a whoosh, followed by college and then university. It felt as if the other had died just to leave behind memories for the other in a cold world.

One stood under the bright lights of an international stadium while the other basked under the warm lighting of a bakery of his own.

One spiked the ball and scored while the other watched from the sidelines.

One tasted the art as flavourful as love while the other could just watch through a severed connection.

One painted his emotions on sweets while the other admired from afar.

Nearby, but not quite whole. Doomed to be forever incomplete.

To be near yet leagues away from each other.

Their eyes met, their hands touched, they brushed shoulders but, they didn't feel a thing.

 ~