The Boy Made of Stars and the One Who Counted Them

An Old Friend

Keiji Akaashi

"It had to be him." Bokuto spoke aloud, as he settled into his bed. His mind was racing and his heart was pounding with such excitement and confidence.

There was no doubt in his mind that Akaashi met Kuroo earlier that day.

Kuroo left a little bit ago, taking the leftovers with him.

"I'll see you tomorrow ok? You can come by and practice, maybe the guy will come around? We didn't have time to introduce ourselves as the coach came and snatched him from me but, maybe we'll find him!" Kuroo said as he walked toward the door.

"Yeah, I'll see ya." Bokuto mumbled, waving to Kuroo.

As soon as Kuroo shot one last smile and closed the door, Bokuto fell on his knees. He laughed out loud and sighed in disbelief.

"What are you up to Akaashi?"
___________

"Ok, no more secrets, who are you?" Bokuto questioned while driving in a dark blue convertible that was riding through the clouds.

Akaashi chuckled and turned to Bokuto before staring at the road ahead.

"I really want to explain everything right now, seriously I do, but I can't. It's against the rules." Akaashi shook his head and gripped the steering wheel. Bokuto noticed this and tilted his head, watching Akaashi's sharp features.

He was lost in thought momentarily, staring at the beautiful structure of Akaashi's face.

"What rules?" Bokuto asked, laying his head on the leather seat behind him and watching the stars follow his eyes.

"I'm really not allowed to tell you anything about myself while in the field, that's what we call dreams. It's a contract type thing. I'll explain everything later on though....for now..." Akaashi gulped before continuing. "I would appreciate it if we don't talk about what I am and why I am here. I know it's stupid but, I promise, I'll tell you one day. So let's just try to be normal kids for as long as we can. Ok?" Akaashi sighed, looking at Bokuto with puppy dog eyes. Bokuto smiled and laughed.

"Ok, starboy, I'll play along." He playfully pushed Akaashi's shoulders as they drove on, watching stars dance in the beautiful navy sky.

"You have to promise to help me out with volleyball! I know you got a ticket to training camp through Kuroo, so no need to hide it." Bokuto stared at Akaashi with his eyebrows raised.

Akaashi turned to him and smirked, muffling a laugh.

"Oh come on, now that you know me, I'm not going to let you live your life without me by your side. Just wait until the day you're sick of me." Akaashi chuckled and held his hand out, taking Bokuto's. He squeezed it and gave Bokuto a loving stare.

"You are magnificent Koutarou." Bokuto blinked and stared at Akaashi in disbelief.. Bokuto scoffed and pulled Akaashi's hand, dragging his body to him. Akaashi was inches from his face.

"You're made of stars Keiji Akaashi." Bokuto whispered, staring into the ocean eyes of the boy he saw every night, yet knew nothing about. "When I look at the sky I can't help but think of you and imagine what you're doing." Bokuto shook his head and continued, chuckling.

"You're so bright. Thank you, for being with me. Thank you for just, everything that you are." Boktuo leaned his head on Akaashi's shoulder as Akaashi looked down at the boy. He took a few deep breaths before letting small tears trickle down his face.

"If only I could tell him." Akaashi thought, silently burying the secret he was forbidden to tell.

"I should be the one thanking you, Koutarou." Akaashi whispered, trying to stop his tears.