The King Fell and Needs Help Getting Up

Chapter 23

The team was back in Miyagi and was given time off from getting back from the training camp. They had the weekend free, and so Kei planned something special to celebrate Tobio's success at the training camp, having made it through without overworking himself and the big step of telling his sister the truth. He still struggles with his mental monsters, even if the physical ones aren't around. Kei has ensured nothing dangerous has happened,d knowing that Kageyama had some self-control issues. It's good he's observant and has pushed any of those thoughts away for Kageyama when they appear. But back to his surprise. He has recently discovered that Kageyama likes cats but has never had much luck with animals liking him, maybe because he always looked angry. A stray cat is hanging out at the convenience store near their house, and Kageyama always stopped by after practice with a bowl to give it milk and some canned tuna. The cat often stayed back until Tobio decided to leave. He had been scratched a few times when he tried approaching the tiny tabby. So he watches from a distance to make sure the cat eats. Kei saw him when taking the recycling out and found it endearing but hilarious that he was so much like a cat, but the cat did not like him. So he plans to take Tobio to a cat cafe that opened in their neighbourhood's shopping district. He's hoping it will be a nice break for the both of them and that maybe one of the cats will take a liking to Kageyama.

It was around 10 a.m. when Kei woke up. Tobio had been up for a while, having gone for a run and eaten something small for breakfast. He sat against the wall across from Kei's bed, tossing a volleyball.

"Morning.." Kei says, yawning as he reaches for his glasses.

"Morning, sleepyhead," Tobio says as he sets the ball down and heads over to the bed, sitting beside Kei. Kei sits up and runs his fingers through Tobio's hair. His eyes are closed as his hair is played with. Kei smiles and pulls his hand away, only for Tobio to pout. Kei chuckles silently and leans over to kiss Tobio's forehead. Tobio's eyes open, and his cheeks flush pink. "You missed..." he whines, and Kei smirks.

"No, I didn't. I was aiming for your forehead, and I got a bullseye." He says teasingly, that only makes Tobio pout more before huffing and turning away.

"Hmph, I'm not making you breakfast anymore."

"You were going to make me breakfast?"

"Well, your mom and dad went to your grandparents early this morning, and Akiteru-san is back at school, so I was, but not anymore."

"Hey, don't be like that," Kei says, wrapping his arms around Tobio's waist and pulling him into his chest.

Tobio couldn't help but relax into Kei's embrace, his initial pout fading away as he felt the warmth of Kei's arms around him. He leaned back against Kei's chest and sighed contentedly.

"Okay, okay, you win," Tobio conceded, his voice softening. "I'll still make you breakfast."

Kei grinned, pleased with his victory. "Good, because I was looking forward to it." He pressed a gentle kiss to Tobio's cheek before releasing him.

Tobio turned to face Kei, a small smile playing on his lips. "So, what's the plan for today? We've got the whole weekend free, right?"

Kei's eyes sparkled with excitement as he revealed his surprise. "Well, I thought we could do something special. There's a new cat cafe that opened nearby. I know you like cats, and I thought it might be a fun way to spend the day."

Tobio's eyes widened in surprise and delight. "A cat cafe? That sounds amazing! You're the best, Kei."

Kei chuckled, feeling a warmth in his heart. "I thought you might like it. Plus, maybe one of those cats will finally like you, unlike that stubborn stray near the convenience store."

Tobio grinned, his cheeks tinged with pink. "I'd like that. And I like spending time with you, too."

They shared a sweet moment, their feelings for each other evident in their smiles and how they held each other close. As they got ready for the day, Kei couldn't help but look forward to the adventure ahead, hoping that this day would be a memorable one for both of them.

Kei could sense Tobio's nervousness as they entered the cat cafe. He knew that Tobio had a soft spot for cats but had always been unlucky with them. As they walked in, Tobio's stiff demeanour didn't go unnoticed.

"Hey," Kei said softly, reassuringly reassuring Tobio's hand. "Relax, King. There's no need to worry. Just be yourself, and the cats will love you."

Tobio managed a small, uncertain smile and nodded. Kei led him to a cozy table near the window, where they could watch the cats frolic around the cafe. It was a serene and inviting atmosphere, with the gentle purring of cats filling the air.

As they sat down, Kei couldn't help but admire Tobio. He crossed the table, intertwining their fingers, and gently squeezed Tobio's hand.

"We're here to enjoy ourselves," Kei said, his eyes filled with affection. "No pressure. Have fun, and let's see if you can make a feline friend today."

Tobio nodded again, his nerves slowly starting to ease as he focused on Kei's comforting presence. Together, they watched the cats play, hoping one would be drawn to Tobio's gentle nature. Kei orders them drinks and a strawberry shortcake to split. He was given some cat treats to feed the cats and brought them to Kageyama. "Here, King, try feeding one a treat."

Tobio accepted the cat treats from Kei, his nervousness still present but gradually subsiding as he focused on the task at hand. He picked up a treat and held it out, trying to entice one of the cats to come closer.

After a few moments, a curious tabby approached him cautiously. Tobio held the treat out, and the cat sniffed it before gingerly taking it from his hand. A small smile crept onto Tobio's face as he watched the cat enjoy the treat.

"They... they like me," Tobio said with a hint of surprise.

Kei smiled warmly. "See? I told you. Cats can sense good people."

As they continued to interact with the cats and enjoy their drinks and cake, Tobio's nervousness melted away, replaced by a sense of joy and contentment. It was a simple but wonderful day, and Tobio was grateful for Kei's thoughtfulness in planning it. "I... thank you. I'm glad we came here." Kageyama says.

As they wrapped up their delightful date at the cat cafe, Tobio came out of his shell. His awkward smile had transformed into a genuine, radiant one that Kei couldn't help but find utterly adorable. Feline friends surrounded Tobio, each vying for his attention.

Kei couldn't contain his smile as he watched Tobio interact with the cats. It was a heartwarming sight, and he was pleased to see Tobio so relaxed and happy.

"You've become the Cat Whisperer, King," Kei teased, gently ruffling Tobio's hair.

Tobio chuckled, his eyes sparkling with happiness. "I guess I have. Thanks for bringing me here, Tsukishima. This has been amazing."

They paid their bill and reluctantly said goodbye to the cats, promising to visit again soon. Walking hand in hand, they left the cat cafe, their hearts full of warmth and bond stronger than ever. It had been a particular day, one they both would cherish and remember fondly.