Ugh You again~

Cafe

Back at the ice rink, the familiar chill of the ice was a comforting escape from the chaos of my thoughts. I practiced my routine, letting the rhythm of my skates clear my mind. It was a welcome distraction, but today, Kuroo's presence was a new and intriguing development.

As I finished a particularly challenging spin, I saw Kuroo standing at the rink's edge, watching me with a friendly grin. I skated over to him, coming to a stop. "Hey, Kuroo. What's up?"

"Just wanted to check in and make up for the party," he said, his smile widening. "How about we hit a café? My treat."

I considered it for a moment, then nodded. "Sure, I could use a break."

We left the rink and headed to a nearby café. The cozy atmosphere and the rich aroma of coffee were a pleasant change from the cold ice. We found a table by the window, and after ordering our drinks, we settled into easy conversation.

For a while, we chatted about school, hobbies, and favorite movies. The conversation was light and enjoyable. But soon, Kuroo shifted the topic.

"So, how's the project with Tsukishima going?" he asked, his tone casual but with an edge.

I sighed, setting my coffee down. "It's been challenging. We're not exactly getting along."

Kuroo leaned back, a frown forming. "I'm not surprised. Tsukishima can be a real pain. He's got this attitude like he's better than everyone else. It's no wonder you're having a hard time."

I bit my lip, unsure how to respond. I didn't want to defend Tsukishima, but Kuroo's words felt a bit harsh.

"He's always so dismissive and arrogant," Kuroo continued, clearly not holding back. "It's like he thinks he's the king of the world."

His words struck a nerve, and I tried to keep my composure. "I don't know if it's that bad."

Kuroo's gaze was intense. "You don't know him like I do. He's always been like that. You deserve better than that."

Before I could respond, my phone buzzed with an incoming call. I glanced at the screen and saw Tsukishima's name. My heart skipped a beat. I quickly answered the call, trying to keep my voice steady.

"Hello?" I said.

"Blackfire," Tsukishima's voice came through, sounding serious. "I need you to come over. There's something we need to discuss."

I looked at Kuroo, who was watching me intently. "Alright," I said, trying to sound calm. "I'll be there soon."

Without giving Kuroo further explanation, I quickly stood up. "Sorry, I have to go. Tsukishima needs me for something."

Kuroo's expression was a mix of concern and disappointment. "Okay. Just remember what I said. Don't let him get to you."

I nodded, feeling conflicted. "I'll keep that in mind. Thanks for the coffee."

I hurried out of the café, my thoughts racing. I didn't want to discuss Tsukishima with Kuroo any further, especially not after everything that had happened. The sudden call from Tsukishima only added to my confusion, but I knew I had to deal with it.

As I made my way to Tsukishima's place, the cold air felt sharper against my skin. I needed to sort things out, but the path forward seemed as uncertain as ever.