Chapter Text
*Beep Beep*
The alarm goes off at 5 a.m. sharp, pulling Hinata Shouyou from sleep. He fumbles for the clock, silencing it before sliding out of bed. On autopilot, he makes his bed and heads to the bathroom, still groggy but moving with a practiced rhythm. By the time he’s dressed and tiptoeing downstairs, he’s more awake, feeling the familiar morning buzz.
In the kitchen, he grabs a quick breakfast—toast, eggs, and orange juice—before opening the fridge to retrieve his lunch. A smile tugs at his lips as he spots the cupcakes he and Natsu baked the night before. He offers a quick thank you to his mom, who always prepares lunch for her kids despite her long work hours.
Natsu had been eager to use her star sprinkles, and after a bit of persuasion, she’d convinced Hinata to bake with her. The chocolate cupcakes turned out fantastic—moist, delicious, and safe to eat. Natsu had decorated them, adding extra blue stars to the best ones for Kageyama.
With the cupcakes and his lunch packed away, Hinata grabs his bike and heads out.
He reaches the school gates by 6 am, just as Kageyama appears.
“Race to the clubroom, three, two, one—go!” Kageyama states before going on a full sprint.
Hinata throws his bag over his shoulder and takes off after him. If this was their first year, Kageyama wouldn’t have given him a second thought. But now, at the end of their third year, he knows Kageyama waits for him to lock his bike before issuing the challenge, and he doesn’t pick up full speed until Hinata is ready.
They both reach the clubroom together, breathless and leaning on each other for support. Their playful banter has softened into an easy familiarity. They unlock the gym and start setting up the volleyball net. After a brief stretching session, Hinata heads to fetch the volleyball cart, while Kageyama pulls out his nail kit.
Once he’s finished with his own nails, Kageyama looks over at Hinata, his face breaking into a small smile. He makes his way to where Kageyama is and sits down beside him.
Hinata gently places his hands into Kageyama’s, feeling the familiar, comforting warmth of his fingers. Kageyama’s face is serious, his brows furrowed in concentration, as he meticulously files Hinata’s nails. It’s a ritual they’ve picked up over the years—a small, intimate act that has become just theirs. As Hinata watches him, his heart swells with affection. His mind drifts back to that unforgettable night, the night of their last Nationals match.
“So… this is it, huh?” Hinata mutters, his gaze fixed on the vending machine, as if the flashing lights held answers.
Today, they played an electrifying match against Itachiyama. Their high school journey had reached its end. Kageyama stands beside him, sipping a hot drink, the steam swirling between them in the crisp night air. They are apart from the others, wrapped in a quiet bubble, aware that something new is on the horizon. Hinata doesn’t need to say more; Kageyama understands. The weight of unspoken words hangs between them. It's time to face it.
“You probably already know, or maybe you’ve heard from Coach Ukai,” Hinata begins, his fingers nervously fidgeting with the drink can in his hands. Finally, he cracks it open, as if releasing his pent-up thoughts. “I’m moving to Brazil… for beach volleyball. I’ll take a few months to prepare after graduation, and then I’ll be off. I have two years to get better and come back… so I can stand on the same court as you.”
Hinata exhales deeply, finally looking up. Kageyama’s eyes are filled with so many things—confusion, surprise, understanding, pride, and something softer, something fond. Then, he smiles, gently cupping Hinata’s cheek with his hand, his thumb brushing over the skin. It’s such a rare, unexpected tenderness from Kageyama that it almost steals Hinata’s breath. Realizing himself, Kageyama pulls his hand away.
In typical fashion, he grumbles, “Dumbass… You better put in all your hard work there.”
Kageyama takes a deep breath, his voice softer. “I haven’t been totally open with you, either. I’m planning to play professionally right after graduation. I’ve gotten some offers.”
Hinata’s lips curve into a small, knowing smile. “You thought I didn’t know that? I know you, Kageyama. I had a hunch. You were spectacular today, as always. So… where are you joining?”
They talk long into the night—about their futures, their dreams. Plans were made and promises to hold onto. The day had already been long, but the conversation flowed effortlessly, filled with the hope of what's to come.
Kageyama’s voice drops, almost a whisper. “You know… I’m going to miss you, right?”
Hinata nods, the words catching in his throat. “Me too.” Their feelings are a palpable thing between them, almost tangible in the air. For a moment, Hinata thinks of finally giving them a name, but before he can find the courage, the moment is broken by Yamaguchi calling them back to the warmth inside.
They know what they feel, even if they haven’t said it aloud. How could they not? Since their middle school days, their bond has been undeniable—from their first match, where Hinata vowed to get better, to the moment Kageyama said, “With me, you’re invincible.” They’ve always understood each other in a way no one else could. Even without words, their connection is clear, a truth known to everyone, even to Tsukishima, who would scoff at the idea.
Hinata shakes his head, coming back to the present. His fingers still rest in Kageyama’s steady grip. He wants to say something—finally name the huge feelings between them—but the stillness is suddenly shattered by the sound of approaching footsteps. The rest of the team files in for morning practice, chatting and joking.
No one even blinks at the sight of Kageyama holding Hinata’s hands while he finishes filing his nails. They’ve been obvious to everyone, including themselves. Now, it’s just a matter of putting an official name on it. Hinata chuckles to himself, imagining the look on Tsukishima’s face. Maybe he’ll surprise him after all.
As if on cue, Kageyama releases his hands and stands up. Hinata does the same, and they head to the court, ready to begin their practice, their shared ritual complete for now.
And yet, in the quiet spaces between their words, they both know what comes next. The future awaits—full of more matches, more chances, and a promise of something more.
~
They were sitting in their usual lunch spot. Normally, Yachi, Yamaguchi, and Tsukishima would be there too, but Yachi and Yamaguchi had to handle some handover tasks today, and Tsukishima prefers to be where Yamaguchi is, so no surprise there.
Hinata suddenly blurts out, “I think we should date,” just as Kageyama is pulling two milk boxes from his bag.
Kageyama doesn’t miss a beat. He hands the strawberry milk to Hinata—another of their little habits—and takes the plain one for himself. Instead of a reaction, Hinata gets a flick on the forehead that makes him yelp.
“I thought we were already together,” Kageyama says matter-of-factly.
Hinata’s cheeks flush red. “Well, I had to make sure we were on the same page,” he mumbles, glancing down at the bento box. “You know… before graduation… before we get further apart.”
Kageyama gives him an amused look. “You really think you could get rid of me that easily? Dumbass.”
Hinata grins. “You never know, Yamayama—ouch, stop hitting me! Also, try this cupcake. Natsu and I made it together. She even added extra blue stars for you. And don’t look at me like that—they taste fine, and you won’t die.”
Kageyama takes a cautious bite and hums approvingly. “You might have a backup career as a baker if you end up eating too much sand in Brazil.”
Hinata snorts, poking his straw into the strawberry milk. “Wow, Bakayama, that’s a backhanded compliment if I’ve ever heard one. But… we are boyfriends now, right?” He locks eyes with Kageyama, his own eyes bright with anticipation.
Kageyama thinks for a moment, imagining the endless sun and sand if he followed Hinata around the world. “Yes, if you want to be,” he replies softly.
Hinata’s heart skips a beat, but doubt flashes across his face. “Wait, do you not—”
Before he can finish, Kageyama cuts him off. “I just mean… ‘boyfriends’ doesn’t feel like enough to describe what I feel about you.” He quickly polishes off the cupcake, avoiding eye contact.
Rivals, Partners, Friends, Best friends and now Boyfriends.
Hinata’s smirk is immediate. “Awww, do you want to marry me already? Should we skip dating, ditch school, and head to the courthouse?”
“Dumbass. One day, sure, but who said I want to marry you?”
They both know Kageyama just said yes. Hinata decides to humour him. “Yeah, well, what if you turn out to be a terrible boyfriend while we’re doing this long-distance thing?”
The teasing note in Hinata's voice fades into a quiet vulnerability. “You do want to, right? To try this… long-distance thing with me? I know I’m the one leaving, but I’m coming back. I’m not leaving you behind.”
Kageyama's expression softens. “I never thought of you going to Brazil as leaving me. So get that in your head. And yeah, I’ll show you how to be the best boyfriend in the whole world.”
Hinata barks out a laugh, instantly competitive. “Oh, you’re on. I’m going to win this competition.”
Kageyama just nods, casually reaching for the other cupcake. But just as he’s about to take a bite, Hinata twists around and shouts, “That’s mine, Yamayama! Also, I have the best idea ever as the best boyfriend.”
Kageyama pauses mid-bite. “What is it, genius?”
Hinata beams. “We should write down some guidelines in a notebook to handle the long-distance thing!”
Kageyama rolls his eyes, but there’s a fond smile tugging at his lips. “Your brain actually works today, huh? Lunch is almost over— want to come over after practice to write them down?”
Hinata hums in agreement, finishes his milk, and stands up, stretching his arm out for Kageyama to take. For a moment, Kageyama looks at him like he’s hung the sun in the sky—and in a way, he has. Hinata is the sun in his life, lighting up everything, and Kageyama would be a fool not to give him his vast sky to keep shining.
“I… I love you, Shouyou,” Kageyama mutters, feeling his cheeks warm as he takes Hinata’s hand to pull himself up. “And I just scored one point for being the best boyfriend.”
Hinata’s eyes go wide, his brain short-circuiting at the words, a thousand thoughts racing until all he can do is smile. It’s not the confession he imagined, but somehow, it feels better—real, raw, and undeniably them.
He quickly leans up on his toes and plants a soft kiss on Kageyama’s cheek. “I love you too, Tobio.”
And then he bolts.
Kageyama blinks, stunned, before chasing after him down the hallway, both of them laughing as they sprint at full speed.
~
Their practice starts on a normal note, with Hinata and Kageyama racing each other to the gym as soon as classes end. As usual, they’re the first ones there, already lost in a world of their own, discussing volleyball strategies with that familiar intensity. The nationals are behind them, and with the third years soon to graduate, the club is in the middle of a handover phase. The practices aren’t as gruelling as they used to be, but they’re still not taking it easy.
Gradually, the rest of the team makes their way to the gym along with their coach. Everyone begins warming up, preparing for the practice matches ahead. Everything seems normal enough.
Or at least, that’s what Hinata is trying to convince himself. Ever since their “official” relationship talk, he’s been buzzing with a giddy excitement that he can’t quite hide. He spent most of the day in classes trying to get his head out of the clouds, but now, each time he catches Kageyama's eye, it feels like an electric current pass between them. Neither of them is particularly good at masking their emotions, and their teammates start to notice the strange energy in the air.
Yamaguchi, already sensing something off, nudges Yachi with a grin. “They’re acting kind of…chirpy today, huh? Feels like something’s up.”
Yachi giggles softly, nodding in agreement, but for now, everyone brushes it off. When the whistle blows, and the practice match begins, Hinata and Kageyama fall back into their usual rhythm. Their movements are sharp and synchronised, and they volley back and forth with the same fierce intensity. For a while, it's as if nothing has changed at all.
But the moment doesn’t last. The evidence presents itself on a silver platter for everyone. After practice, the whole team is back in the clubroom, changing out of their sweaty clothes and winding down for the day. The atmosphere is light, filled with the usual banter and laughter.
And then it happens.
Kageyama, distracted while stuffing his clothes into his bag, calls out, “Shouyou, hurry up and pack your gross, sweaty shirt already. Let's go home.”
There’s a beat of silence.
Hinata, not missing a beat, replies casually, “Yeah, yeah, I'm coming, Tobio. Just need to fill my water bottle first. Wait for me!”
And that’s when it hits everyone. The room goes quiet, with all eyes fixed on them. Kageyama and Hinata seem oblivious as they continue gathering their things, until Tsukishima, leaning against the wall with a sly smirk, decides to break the silence.
“Well, well. First names now? Did I miss the wedding announcement?”
Hinata and Kageyama freeze, their faces flushing bright red as they suddenly realise their mistake. Hinata stammers, “It’s—It’s not like that!” while Kageyama splutters, “Shut up, Tsukishima!”
The room erupts into laughter, and the two quickly mumble their goodbyes before rushing out of the clubroom, leaving behind a very intrigued group of teammates.
Yamaguchi grins and nudges Tsukishima. “I think we just found our next mystery to solve.”
~
They walk side by side towards Kageyama’s house, Hinata rolling his bike alongside him. What starts as a leisurely stroll quickly turns into an impromptu race, earning amused glances from passersby until they finally arrive at Kageyama’s front door.
Kageyama fumbles with his keys, and Hinata follows him inside, swiftly locating his house slippers from the shoe cabinet. The bright orange pair matches his hair perfectly—a gift from Kageyama, who had grumbled, “I found these while shopping with my sister. They match your hair, and you needed a pair anyway. You’re always at my place, dumbass.”
Hinata smirks and rushes up to Kageyama’s room, getting comfortable as he waits. Kageyama, meanwhile, heads to the kitchen to grab some snacks. With his parents out, they have the house to themselves, free to create the usual ruckus without any consequences.
“So, I’ve thought of a few points already!” Hinata announces as he starts writing in their designated notebook, trying to be as neat as possible. He writes in big letters, ‘Boyfriends 101’ on the cover.
“First,” he declares with confidence, “we need to talk every day! It could be a quick text or a long call—whatever. I don’t want to go through that silence after our first-year fight ever again.”
Kageyama winces, remembering that incident. That silence now would physically pain him a hundred times more. He nods and adds, “Second, let’s have virtual date nights from time to time. We could watch volleyball matches or whatever.”
Hinata grins and jots this down, adding a smiley Kageyama doodle next to the note. “Yeah, and we can watch those horror movies you hate or maybe a sappy romcom.”
He pokes Kageyama’s pouty cheek with the other end of his pen and continues, “Third, we should share our daily moments with each other. Even the small stuff. Like sending a photo of our meals or telling each other about the funniest thing that happened that day.”
Kageyama watches Hinata write down the third point and adds his own touch—a tiny tangerine doodle. “Fourth, we should support each other’s goals and dreams. I’ll be waiting for you, dumbass.”
They fall into a moment of quiet, each lost in thought about the future—Kageyama in Tokyo, and Hinata preparing for his move to Brazil. The air shifts, becoming heavier with the reality of their upcoming separation. Hinata, ever the sunshine, tries to lighten the mood. He taps his pen against the notebook and grins, “Alright, next rule: you need to send me one compliment every day, along with a cute picture.”
Kageyama’s cheeks flush, clearly flustered. "Shou, do you really think I’m going to willingly compliment you every day? Don’t fish for compliments, dumbass!"
Hinata waggles his finger at him playfully. “Nah, Bakayama, I know you secretly compliment me in your head all the time!”
Their playful banter quickly turns into a squabble, Hinata tackling Kageyama to the floor. In a heartbeat, they’re tangled on the floor, their laughter fading into something softer, more charged. The reason for their scuffle is forgotten.
Hinata’s breath catches, and he gulps audibly.
Tobio leans in closer, their foreheads almost touching. He nudges Hinata’s nose with his own, silently asking, ‘You okay?’
This is new territory for both of them—uncharted and nerve-wracking, yet thrilling. Tobio inches further, and after a heartbeat of hesitation, Hinata closes the distance, meeting him halfway in a soft kiss.
It’s everything they have imagined and more and nothing at all. It's soft and playful, but every second of it speaks volumes to each other. Each moment is filled with a thousand promises and wishes. They forget to breathe and their hearts are thumping so quickly one may think they are competing to see who can beat faster for one another.
They finally pull back, breaths mingling, just as their phones buzz with a flurry of notifications.
Curious, they check their screens and see their shared group chat with Yachi, Yamaguchi, and Tsukishima has erupted into chaos.
Karasuno’s Chaos 🐾🌻🌌🌕🌟
Yachi🐾:
guys, does anyone know if the answer for Q10 on the maths sheet is 0?
I swear I panic every time I get 0 after a long solution…
Its either incredibly right or horribly wrong 😭😭
Tsukishima🌕:
Give me a minute, Yachi. I’ll solve it and let you know.
Yamaguchi🌟:
Also, whose turn was it to lock the gym today?
Tsukishima🌕:
Probably Hinata’s. Only someone like him would forget something so basic.
Yachi🐾:
But Hinata was with Kageyama the whole time, right?
Yamaguchi🌟:
Yeah, you two left together and on time!! What are you guys up to? 😏😏😏
Back in Kageyama’s room, Hinata shifts comfortably beside Kageyama, laying his head on his shoulder. With his knees pulled to his chest and tongue sticking out in concentration, he starts typing without much thought.
Hinata🌻:
We were making a guide for us today!
And guess what, yamayama refuses to send me a compliment and a cute pic of him every day!
😤😤😤
Kageyama🌌:
Stop fishing for compliments, dumbass.
Hinata🌻:
But that’s the least he could do as my boyfriend! Right guys?
🥺🥺🥺🥺🥺
Kageyama🌌:
I can send you a cute picture every day
as your boyfriend <3
The group chat goes silent for a moment, both Hinata and Kageyama staring at each other, half-amused, half-embarrassed. Just as they’re about to toss their phones aside and resume what they started, the chat explodes:
Tsukishima🌕:
Knew it. What did I say? Pay up, Yamaguchi 💸💸
Yamaguchi🌟:
We were planning to bait them, but they just confessed everything on their own 🫠🫠
Yachi🐾:
Boyfriends!!! You guys are so cute together
✨✨✨
Tsukishima🌕:
Grossly cute, you mean
Yamaguchi🌟:
Tsukki, we all know you’re actually happy for them 🫶
Yachi🐾:
I need the details!!! How did this happen!
Tsukishima🌕:
When’s the wedding?
Yamaguchi🌟:
I am assigning myself as the best man 🕺🕺🕺
Tsukishima🌕:
Seriously, just admit it, who’s the bigger sap?
Hinata and Kageyama exchange a look—caught between laughter and embarrassment.
Yamaguchi🌕:
Is there going to be pet names? You should add that to the guide, Hinata!
Kageyama🌌:
Stop making things up! There are no pet names, and definitely no wedding—
Hinata🌻:
Says the guy who called me “Shou” five times today…
🥰🥰🥰
Yachi🐾:
OMG, pet names confirmed!
Tsukishima🌕:
And here I thought I’d have to dig deeper. You two make it too easy 🫡
Yamaguchi🌟:
Seriously, just admit you’re the worst at keeping secrets! 😂😂
Kageyama groans and turns to Hinata. "No more accidental slip-ups, got it?"
Hinata grins, scribbling on their guide. “Or at least… let’s try to keep it minimal.”
They exchange a playful, knowing look, and beneath their bickering, there’s a warm sense of relief that they don’t have to hide anymore—at least, not from these friends. Honestly, they never thought about hiding anything, they are as obvious as rain on a rainy day.