Ill-Fated Calf-Love

Kuroo

The mall was busier than Kuroo expected, though he shouldn't have been suprised with all the last minute Christmas shoppers. His hand flew up, waving for the attention of the boy on the other side of the food court, smiling when Akaashi turned to weave through the crowd toward him.

"Hey," he greeted him with a kiss, Aksshi barely kissing back before pulling away. "Is it too crowded? We can go somewhere else."

"It's fine. The restaurant won't be as bad."

Akaashi's hand found his, feeling solid and secure in Kuroo's grip as he led him between the clusters of people.

"How'd your tests go?"

"I passed because of you. I'll get to play next semester now. You must be my good luck charm." Kuroo winked at him, loving the way Akaashi's face flushed with embaraasment.

"Don't say things like that."

"Why not? It's true. I'll shout it right here for the entire mall to hear."

"Do you want me to leave? Don't draw attention."

"It wouldn't make a difference. Your beauty has already attracted everyone's eyes. Ow-" He rubbed at his arm where Akaashi had hit him.

"You sound like your upperclassmen."

"That's not surprising. I spend a lot of time with them due to practice and games. They tolerate me more now."

Akaashi was silent as the waitress led them to their table. She took their drink orders and left them to look over the menu. Kuroo hated how easily the rift between them reopened, Akaashi not saying a word as he looked over the menu. The waitress returned, took their orders, and left again.

Reaching out, Kuroo took Akaashi's hand. "I'm sorry. I know you don't like them. I'll try to fix it and you don't have to come to my games."

"I still want to come support you. I just want you to stick up for me when they hit on me. I'm YOUR boyfriend, not theirs. Act like it." The last words were barely muttered before Akaashi drowned them in his water.

"You're right. I'll try to get better at that."

"That's all I ask." Their dinner went by too quick, Akaashi talking about his own schooling a bit, forced back into attending classes by the snow and bitter cold. Too soon, he was walking Akaashi home, clutching onto his hand like his life depended on it. He kissed him at the door. Kuroo felt the moment Akaashi tensed to pull away, but held him tighter for just a moment more.

"I love you."

"Have a goodnight, Kuroo. Text me when you get home and I'll see you when I get back." Akaashi waved before shutting the door, and Kuroo turned toward home.