Spring Leaves

Chapter 22

Kuroo had never been a fan of lying about anything or to anyone. He tended to say things as they were, avoided apologizing insincerely for his wrongdoings, and wouldn't force himself to do anything he was uncomfortable with. He liked that this was the way he was. He liked that he treated himself well.

But things change, and people change, including him.

Now, he let people depend on him more and took greater care of them. To others, it probably seemed like he had become kinder and more compassionate. To him, however, it was a trait he didn't want because he prioritized others' well-being over his own and that, in turn, made him slowly take less care of himself. What made it even worse was the fact that he had taken on the role of that go-to person that people depended on and came to for advice.

He was aware of how overwhelming the pressure was and knew he may crack soon. To prevent that from happening, he decided he would use winter break to deal with his problems on his own. He needed to take a break from the world. He needed to be able to breathe again.

Bzzt!

Seriously? Just when he'd gotten time for himself?

Sighing, he checked his phone.

Akaashi
Could we get on call together? I'm not in the mood to socialize, but I would like some silent company if you'd be willing.

Kuroo
huh?? and me?? not kenma???

Akaashi
Yes, you.
I have personal reasons for not going to Kenma-san about this.

Kuroo
I see

Okay, maybe this wasn't so bad. He could do his own thing, while Akaashi did the same, and neither had to talk. They were just there to quietly support each other and let the other know that someone cared. It actually sounded pretty nice.

"Hello," Akaashi greeted him.

"Hey."

"Thank you for this. I would've gone to Kenma-san but—"

"No worries. You don't have to tell me those reasons if you don't want to."

"Okay. Thank you again."

One thing Akaashi appreciated about Kuroo was the fact that he never asked for specifics. He recognized and respected that Akaashi had his own secrets and problems. Even if he was curious about what they were, he wouldn't let it show. It made Akaashi feel safer and more stress-free.

"Which reminds me, were you busy when I texted you?"

"Nah. I was just thinking about my plans for winter break.

"Ah. Would you like to talk about them? I have all day."

"It's not anything big. I'm just planning on using it to focus on myself."

"I should probably do the same. Life's been pretty messy lately, especially with preparations for Nationals."

"I wouldn't know what that's like but continue if you want," Kuroo commented lightheartedly.

Akaashi nodded, though Kuroo couldn't see him, "It's alright."

Neither spoke after that but the call wasn't exactly silent. Both their microphones were unmuted to let the other know that they were still there, after all.

---

Kenma wasn't sure how he felt about this winter break.

He normally loved the free time since it meant he was able to dedicate more time to do things he enjoyed that didn't exert much energy such as video games. They were able to distract him from his thoughts, not just because they were fun, but also because they were one of the few constants in his life.