L.A.T.E. | Surprise Ship

~ Prologue ~

    Things had improved considerably since Akaashi's untimely departure.

Bokuto, for one, was now able to cope with his lingering feelings and put them aside completely. He'd started fixing his hair again and even began leaving the house again, no longer relying on the support of his longtime friend Tetsurou Kuroo. As it was today, Kuroo's absolute favorite author had apparently come to town for a book signing, but the fan himself unfortunately had work that day.

    "Go for meeeeeeee," The extreme bed-head had begged. "You need fresh air anyway. How long has it been since you've been outside for more than two hours at a time?"

    "I've been outside for three hours today alone, and it wasn't for work. If anything, you should be proud of me." Bokuto replied defensively. "Ah, who am I kidding. Fine. But just this once."

    And so, just like that, Bokuto had signed himself up for the task, although he hadn't meant to. All he knew was that he definitely regretted it. The line stretched well outside of the bookstore where the event was being held, and it was the middle of summer. There were no coverings of any kind protecting the heads and bodies of the patrons lining up for this "one in a lifetime chance," as the posters on the bookstore window next to him advertised.

After waiting through three or so hours of heat, sweat, and pushy customers, a signed copy of Kuroo's favorite new sci-fi novel lay safely nestled in Bokuto's bag. Taking his time to be formal with the pleasantries of "thank you" and such since he was the last person in line, he was glad it was over.

      The wooden clatter signaling that someone entered the store behind him seemed unimportant, at the time. A voice rang out, presumably of that person who had just come in from the sweltering heat.

      "Hello? Is this where Akisawa's doing the book signing?" It was soft and hard to place to a specific gender, but Koutarou really and honestly couldn't have cared less.

      Then he turned around to leave.

      And saw the raven-dark hair.