38 parts Ongoing Under the maple tree, they sat together, Oikawa cradled in Iwaizumi's embrace as they watched the sun dip below the horizon.
"Hubby, isn't this moment perfect?" Oikawa murmured, his voice barely audible. Suddenly, a wave of pain overwhelmed him, and he gasped, coughing up blood.
I hate this pain...I want this to be over...
"Tooru, you can rest," Iwaizumi said softly, rubbing his thumb against Oikawa's cheek. "If you rest, there's no more pain."
"No...more pain," Oikawa repeated, his voice fragile.
Iwaizumi nodded, his own heart breaking.
"Can I...Can I really rest?" Oikawa asked, his eyes searching Iwaizumi's for reassurance.
"Mm...," Iwaizumi affirmed, his voice choked with emotion.
"Are you...are you gonna be okay?" Oikawa's voice wavered, his concern for Iwaizumi evident even in his final moments.
Smiling with a heavy heart, Iwaizumi uttered, "Yes, I'm going to be okay. So, you don't have to fight and stay with me for another day. I know you're exhausted."
Then...I can really rest...This suffering will end...
Tears welled up in Oikawa's eyes as he gripped Iwaizumi's shirt with trembling hands. "Hubby, I love you! I-I love you very much!"
Iwaizumi gently embraced him, tears streaming down his own face. "Mm..., I love you, too," he whispered, stroking Oikawa's hair and kissing his forehead. He was on the verge of breaking down, trying desperately to keep a smile on his face. "You can sleep now."
Oikawa cupped Iwaizumi's cheek, looking into his emerald eyes. With unsteady breathing and a body that was slowly giving up, he said once more, "I love you...I love-love you, Iwaizumi Hajime..."
"I love you more, Tooru," Iwaizumi whispered. He then kissed Oikawa's bloody lips for the final time. As their lips parted, Oikawa's eyes grew heavy, and the world faded away.
When Oikawa's hand fell limp by his side, Iwaizumi knew he was gone. He gently caressed Oikawa's hair, staring at his peaceful face. "Sleep well, my darling," he whispered, his voice breaking.