Breakfast

"Kiki, breakfast time." Arthur calls from the doorway and I hum, lightly stirring from my sleep. Arms were wrapped around me, holding me in a heated embrace- I didn't want to get up. "Kiki, you can't skip breakfast." Arthur says and I groan softly, reluctantly rolling onto my back and lifting a small bit of my blanket. "Can it wait?" I ask softly, though he shakes his head- he was wearing a suit. "Come on, get dressed. Wear your nicest dress." He says and I sigh, slowly prying myself from the arms- I hear a disappointed groan as I slip out of the bed, walking over to my closet. I pick through my clothes, pulling out my nicest sundress as Arthur clicks his tongue. "Is that the nicest you have? You know what- hold on, I'm gonna make a call." Arthur says as he steps out, though I hear him talking on his phone on the other side of the door. "I don't see what the big deal is, it's just breakfast." Suna says and I hum, rubbing my eye as I walk over to my phone and check the time and date- "Holy shit!" I squeak, my eyes widening as I realize what today was. "Fuck! I was supposed to get a dress yesterday- no!" I groan as I dig from the top to the bottom of my closet for something to wear.

"Kiki, get ready otherwise. I got a dress on the way." Arthur says and I dart into the bathroom, turning on the shower water. "I'm so fucking sorry, Arthur- it totally spaced my mind!" I call as I step into the water, scrubbing myself from head to toe. "Don't worry about it, I kind of figured with the whole sleep in day." Arthur calls from outside the door, though I scrub my hands over my face. "Not an excuse, I friggin' slept in." I groan and Arthur laughs as I grab my bar of soap. "You're pregnant, Kiki- they're not gonna bite your face off because you were exhausted. Calm down, it's fine- I've got a nice dress on the way, you just need to look decent otherwise." Arthur says and I slather the soap over myself, shaking my head. "First impressions, Arthur!" I call and I hear him hum softly. "The majority of them know you. The only one who doesn't is my grandmother, even then she's heard plenty about you." Arthur says, though I set the bar down and rinse myself off. "But there's also going to be the department heads!" I hiss and he hums softly, though I make sure to get all the suds off. "You're right, I forgot about them." Arthur calls as I turn the water off, climbing out and grabbing a towel.

Once I'm all dry and my hair is styled, I walk out and see Kozu with a dress bag. I quickly grab it, walking over to my drawers and digging through for underwear. "What's the big occasion?" Suna asks and Arthur hums, glancing at me as I pull on my panties. "Long story short, the fancy part of our families are calling a family dinner to get feelers on my temperament and business sense." I mumble as I unzip the dress bag, seeing the dusty pink number. "Fuck yes, no bra." I hiss happily as I pull it out, pulling it over my head. "Arthur, come help me put this fuckery on." I say, making him laugh as he comes over and helps me pull on the fancy dress and tie the installed corset. "That's a pretty fancy dress just for breakfast." Kozu says and I shift lightly as Arthur goes into my closet, grabbing my black heels. "Fancy people have questionable tastes." I say in the heat of the moment as I glance at Arthur. "Besides, he chose it, so… he knows what they like best." I say and he winks at me as he helps me put on the heels. "Yeah, we gotta go. You can stay here or go back to the house, up to you." Arthur says, offering me his arm which I gladly take before he guides me out of the room.

"What's that look?" Suna says as he sees the confused look on Kozu's face. "She… lied? I mean, she could be flustered, but… I think she lied. She knows why Arthur chose that dress." Kozu says, confusing Suna as they both walk out of the room, trailing after the two. They watch as Kioshi fluffs Kimiko up, adjusting her dress lightly before nodding. They then all walk out of the door, Kanori holding the trail of her skirt as they walk out and Kioshi carrying Nen on his arm. "So… what? Do you want to like, follow them?" Suna asks and Kozu shifts, dropping his gaze. "No… they didn't lie about their families checking her temperament and business sense, so… I think it's more than that, but it's probably important that we don't get involved. Last time we tried butting into that side of her life… we ended up making a huge mess of things. Let's just wait and… well, maybe she'll tell us later on." Kozu says and Suna slowly nods, still curious- the dress had been very nice, but it didn't look comfortable for someone pregnant. "Oh, I have an idea of how we can possibly bring you in." Suna says and Kozu perks up, looking at Suna as he walks out of the door- they had their own plans.

"It's a pleasure to finally meet you, Kimiko." The older woman says, giving me a sweet smile as she offers me a hand. "Please, the pleasure is all mine Mrs. Pendragon. Your grandson has been a friend of mine since childhood." I say as I take her hand, offering her my best, sweetest professional smile as we shake hands. "So I've heard. I've also heard you're the only one to tame him." She muses and I giggle lightly, shaking my head. "No one can truly tame Arthur Pendragon, I'm afraid." I say, making her laugh heartily as she nods her head. "Yes, it seems that way, doesn't it?" She muses and I nod my head, though Arthur comes over. "Grandmother." Arthur says and the woman turns to him, offering him a curt smile. "Arthur, darling. I was just introducing myself to your friend." She says and he nods, offering her a professional smile. "Of course, but I do believe it is time for breakfast. Shall we?" Arthur says, offering me his arm as I easily slide mine into his. "If you'd please excuse me, Mrs. Pendragon." I say and she bows her head as Arthur guides me to the dining room table. "Are you ready?" He asks and I hum softly, giving his arm a light squeeze as I smile at him.

"Pardon me, excuse me- please. I'm sure many of you have been wondering why I've called this meeting today." Carson says as he taps his fork to his wine glass, everyone's heads turning to the man standing at the head of the table. "Trusted friends, my beloved family and salary munchers…" Carson says, ending with a playful tone that makes everyone chortle. "As I'm sure you know, the Suzuki and Pendragon family were once rivals." Carson starts out in a speech as he holds his head high. "Passion versus spirit, smarts, brazen, power- we are two strong families with even stronger corporations, built on trust and dedication." Carson says proudly, seeming to rouse the company head up with pride. "For many years, we have been pitted against each other in the mass of consumers. My friend, who was like a brother to me, the late Katsuki… may he forever rest in peace… never believed in that." Carson says and my family bows their head in remembrance of my father. "Katsuki believed that you should keep your friends close and your enemies closer. Not only did he believe the saying, but he took it to a whole new level." Carson continues, everyone nodding.

"Katsuki saw us as powerful allies, as motivation to not only surpass, but to use as his personal encouragement for improvement. In fact, in many ways, he demanded that we better ourselves." Carson says, making me smile at his passionate words. "He opened my eyes to a new kind of friendship- they say the greatest enemies make the greatest allies. In his case, he was the greatest ally anyone could think of. Together, not only as companies, but as friends, we broke past our boundaries and became more. He not only established his hand in our future, but he lifted us past our history, to make new history." Carson says with all the passion, lifting his hand and clenching his fist. "These years have been the best in our companies, working and challenging each other to be better, to become greater- he may not be here, but his passion, his spirit remains in every action we take, every choice we make." Carson says, gesturing to the table as he sets his wine glass down. "In his honor, we are going to push past all boundaries and become even stronger, together. We have a responsibility to the future, to our consumers-" Carson says as he puts his hands on the table.

"To be better, to lead the way to the future and show them how powerful we could be- together. Katsuki saw the long standing rivalry between our families and he saw an opportunity. He didn't let it hold him back when he approached me, when he personally challenged me… to be better. Our friendship was made from the passion of rivalry, one that was tried and tested many times. But it persevered, it became strong- and it built the foundations not only for our companies futures, but our families futures as well." Carson says, standing up straight and looking at everyone in the room. "When I spoke to Katsuki, he aspired to be the best. He didn't let any fear hold him back, he didn't believe in fear. He believed in dreams, he believed in the power to achieve them with hard work and dedication." Carson says, the room falling silent as we all listen. "When he told me that when he became the successor of the company, that he not only wanted to work together, but to combine our companies… I thought he was crazy." Carson says, everyone looking between themselves. "But he didn't give in, he didn't shrink away." Carson chuckles, a smile spreading over his face.

"He told me, 'you'll see someday. It might be today, it might be tomorrow- but one day, you'll see that our families could be at the top of the world- together. We will lead the industry, we will be the best and we will lead the path into the future.'. He told me that, the first day he met me- and he saw it as a challenge upon himself, to our future, to convince me of this. Not only did he challenge me to be better, but he challenged himself to be better for me. Unfortunately, fate had other plans for Katsuki… and he never inherited the business. We were never able to put our friendship, our dedication into action." Carson says as he leans back, crossing his arms. "But that didn't stop me, that didn't stop his spirit from persevering, transcending even beyond death and screaming 'the future is here!'" Carson says, lifting his fists and shaking them passionately. "The future is here! It is in you, in me- and in our children!" Carson says as he gestures proudly to Arthur and I, who smile proudly at everyone. "As you may know, the Suzuki family has been searching for their rightful heir to their family business, someone who had passion, spirit-" Carson says as I feel all eyes turn to me.

"Who better than the flesh, the blood, the brazen spirit that he raised himself?" Carson hisses, gesturing to me. "I have watched the man raise this child, I have seen her spirit rear its head like a stallion charging ahead of the pack! She is passionate, she has spirit- she is our future!" Carson says, a big grin spreading over his face as he chuckles. "And who could forget my son, the wild man himself! He doesn't let anything hold him back when he sets his mind, who doesn't believe in tradition or standards. He believes in results, he believes in passion- and he believes in Kimiko Suzuki, the daughter of Katsuki Suzuki. They have been raised together, reared together- and soon, they will inherit the company, together. Please, welcome your future- it is here, it is coming and it is rearing its head, screaming 'I am here!'" Carson says passionately as Arthur and I stand, bowing as everyone claps for us. The room falls silent as Arthur clears his throat, wrapping his arm around my waist. "I have known Kimiko since before I can remember. In my first memories, she is there, by my side- and she is kicking my ass." Arthur chuckles, making everyone laugh at his jovial tone.

"And I couldn't have been happier, ironically. We always fought- we did. Even as babies we were snatching each other's pacifiers, blowing raspberries and kicking each other." Arthur says, grinning at me with a twinkle of mischief in his eyes. "But she wisened up and her father got a hold of her, harnessing that spirit, the passion that she had. He made her smart, he made her sharp- and I was left raw, I was left wild. She saw the potential in me and she learned from a young age how to harvest it in her own way." Arthur says, everyone falling silent and seeming intrigued. "For as long as I have been alive, I have respected a small handful of people. I have respected my family, I have respected her family- and I have respected Kimiko Suzuki. Hell hath no fury like Kimiko Suzuki when you push her boundaries, I learned very quickly not to test her on certain things. But respect becomes trust, trust becomes faith, faith becomes… love." Arthur says as he gives me a sweet smile, lifting my left hand and kissing my ring finger. "And I have never loved any woman other than Kimiko Suzuki. I will never love any other woman." Arthur says, an audible gasp sounding through the room.

"At some point in my life, I realized that Kimiko Suzuki was my clarity. She was my safe haven, she was the one I could trust, no matter. It quickly became clear to me that I would never meet anyone that would compare- and nobody could ever replace her in my life. As many of you may know… I am known as the wild bachelor. That's simply not true- I have never touched any woman other than Kimiko Suzuki. She is the only woman I can turn to and see for exactly what she is- my other half. She has been by my side since the start of my life, she has been the one that can make me see clearly- and she holds my hope in her hand. If Kimiko Suzuki were not here, I would simply not be. I could not imagine a life without this woman by my side, I could not imagine anyone taking her place. Our love goes beyond anything I have ever felt- as has our trust and our faith." Arthur says as he turns to the table with his chest puffed with pride. "Well, there are no more boundaries. I have chosen to spend my life with this woman, I have chosen to marry her, I have chosen to give all that I am and will be to her, in return for her." Arthur says, a blazing passion in his eyes as everyone claps.

"I ask that this news not leave this room as of now- we will come out when we are ready. As of today, we are officially tying our lives and our inheritances together- in the coming time, we will work with you to establish our businesses the way we see fit. We will put our faith in you to make sure that not only our future, but the future of our families is built with a solid foundation. As of right now, Kimiko Suzuki is making her official return to the Suzuki family- as my fiance and business partner. I ask that you please take into consideration that she does not have the upbringing that I do… but I do believe that her passion and spirit will speak beyond levels for you. I believe she will surprise us all with her dedication, with her ethic not only to the public, but to our company as well." Arthur says, before he turns to me, bowing his head. "It is a pleasure to meet you all, I am grateful for your warm welcome. I do hope that you will keep this between us for now, I still have many arrangements to make in my current life so that my friends and family will become adjusted to this news. It is very important to me that this news isn't leaked until I am ready." I say, everyone nodding politely.

"First off, I'd like to say I look forward to working with you. I hope our future projects together will help build your trust and faith in me, not only as your leader, but as your future. I know I am young, I know that I am probably not prepared… but I am more than ready to take on this challenge." I say, glancing at Kanori as he nods, slipping out of the room. "I can honestly say that I am probably not the future of this company, I am simply a foothold into what can be considered a brighter future. I am simply the foundation, the start of something brilliant- and I can guarantee that I will make sure that the future is bountiful." I say as Kanori comes into the room, Nen following behind him dressed in a suit- oh, that's literally so fucking cute. "I'd like to introduce you to your true future." I say, Nen coming over to me with his back straight and head held high- my little business man. I scoop him up, placing him on my chair as he puffs up his chest with pride. "This is my son, Nen. Some of you may know him as Kioshi's foster child whom he took under his wing as a babe. I will forever be grateful for his kindness." I say, bowing my head to Kioshi as he smiles back.

"For those of you that do know Nen… Well, you know exactly why I say he is the future. He has pure, raw potential- he is smart, he is passionate and he has the spirit. With the right cultivation, he will become the perfect head to the future of our companies- and that's not just me talking as his mother." I say as my lip twitches, everyone laughing at my words. "In my time working at our company, I will be taking all of my knowledge and dedication, I will take everything I learn and all of the dreams from the company- and I will pour it all into his cup. They say with great power comes great responsibility- and as Nen's mother, it is important that I raise him to be a proper future for our company. I will take the firsthand experience I receive and I will use it to fuel his fire, his passion- I will cultivate his knowledge, passion and spirit to bring forth a true heir of our companies. It has always been my dream that my children's future is a bright one, with your help I hope to not only make their future bright… but yours, as well. He is our future- and I hope we can all watch the shape it takes, together. Please, everyone- let us welcome our true future." I say, everyone clapping as Nen beams.

"Did I do good, mommy?!" Nen asks excitedly and I lift my hands up for a high five. "Heck yeah you did! I'm so proud of you, bean! You were the best! You looked so~ cool! Do you know how cool you looked?! They loved you!" I say, Nen laughing giddily as he high fives me. "You know what? I think you deserve some ice cream." I say and he gasps, clapping his hand to his mouth as I lean over to his ear. "With sprinkles." I say and he squeals excitedly, dashing around the room and pumping himself up. I can't help but laugh as he zooms around in circles, though I put an arm to his back. "Don't make yourself sick, if you get sick you can't enjoy your ice cream. Then you'll be sad." I say and he nods, calming down as I pat his head. "I love you." I say as I kiss his forehead and he beams up at me. "I love you too, mommy!" He says, beaming up to me as I offer him a big smile. "I love you more." I tease, beginning to bicker over who loved more as I guided him out of the door- I didn't bother hiding my love for Nen from the people, if they didn't like it then they could fuck off. Being a mother came first to me, if they didn't like it- then they didn't deserve to see the results of my parenting.

"Let mommy get changed and then we can get ice cream, okay? These heels make mommy's feet hurt." I say and Nen nods as Kanori takes over for me, telling Nen how he did such a good job as he guides him to the kitchen. I take off my heels in the entry, reaching down to take them- someone grabs them before I can. "I got these." Kuroo says, offering me a smile as I look up at him- when did he get there? "Oh, um… okay." I say and he offers me his arm which I gladly take. He guides me back to my room, though he covers my eyes. "Uh… Kuroo?" I ask, hearing my room door open as he guides me in. "Shh… Jeez, what's up with this dress? Is it a puzzle?" Kuroo mumbles as I hear a light thump, his hands brushing over my back as he tries to untie my corset. "I consider it a torture device." I giggle, reaching back and grabbing the strings to unravel it all. I take a deep breath of relief as I feel it loosen on my ribs, humming happily. "I see." He chuckles, tugging the strings so they're looser. "Does it hurt the baby?" He asks and I shrug, his hand still over my eyes. "Later in my pregnancy it will, but it's fine for now." I say and Kuroo hums, his hand sliding off of my eyes.

"I disapprove. Never wear one again." Kuroo says, making me snort as I open my eyes- though he pulls the dress off of me in one swift move. "Hey! Jeez, careful." I say as he walks over to my closet, though I notice Kozu and Suna were in the room. "Oh, um… hi." I say, shyly covering my breasts as Suna offers me a shirt. I perk up, happily taking it and sliding it on. "Thank you." I say and he hums, Kuroo hanging the dress up in my closet. "So… no offense, but what are you guys doing in my room?" I ask and Kozu shyly points at my bed- I glance over, doing a double take. "Waa!" I gasp when I see the arrangement of stuffies on my bed, all kinds of disney characters and- oh my gosh, was that an octopus?! I laugh giddily as I dash over to my bed, picking up the octopus and holding it in the air. "Oh my gosh, aren't you the cutest! You're my favorite!" I giggle, hugging it to my chest and squeezing it tight. "I'll name you octodad. Nobody suspects a thing~" I chime, giggling as I set him by my pillow. "Aw man, I want to cuddle you right now but I promised Nen ice cream…" I grumble as I slide off of my bed and over to my drawers, digging through and grabbing a pair of shorts.

I quickly slide on my shorts before I glance back, seeing Kozu shuffling and seeming anxious. I walk over and hug him tight, burying my head into his neck and taking a deep breath of his familiar smell. "I missed you." I whisper and he hesitantly wraps his arms around me, patting my back lightly. "Come on! Nen deserves ice cream, he was the best boy at the meeting!" I say as I take his hand, dragging him with me out of the door. He seems surprised, though he quickly catches up with my pace as I shuffle to the kitchen. Nen and Kanori had already busted out the ice cream, Kioshi and Arthur already digging into their bowls as Kanori helps Nen make his bowl- with lots of sprinkles. "Oh! Mommy! Can the baby get some too?" Nen asks and I hum softly, tapping my bottom lip. "I think I can have an extra scoop for them." I muse, Nen cheering as Kanori rolls his eyes, his lip twitching. "We have your favorite." Kioshi muses and I perk up as I stop in front of the freezer, practically tearing it open as my eyes dart over the assortment. I groan happily as I pull out the pint of mint chocolate chip, walking over beside the two and making myself a bowl- with an extra scoop.

I'm savoring and enjoying every bite of my ice cream, listening in as Nen tells Kuroo all about the breakfast he had- his favorite, blueberry waffles. I'm half tempted to pull out the rest of the pint and scarf it down as I scoop the last spoonful, lifting it to my mouth. It was probably a bad idea though- I could save the rest for tomorrow, that wasn't a bad idea. I could have it in bed or in the living room with some good old cartoons or disney- Aima had recommended that new anime to me, what was it? Demon Slayer? I could watch that. Suna reaches over and wipes some of the left over off of my lip but I quickly grab his hand, licking it off- didn't want to waste any. He raises an eyebrow at me, his lip twitching- oops. I feel my face burn as I drop his hand, making him chuckle as he turns back to Nen. "What was that whole thing anyway? I don't know why you would attend." Kozu says and I drop my spoon from surprise, my face burning as he picks it up for me, raising an eyebrow at me. "I asked her to attend for me. It was a business meeting for our family company, I had to bring Nen and she was supervising him." Kanori says, covering for me as I spare him a glance- nice cover.

"We're technically not allowed to talk about what happened…" I mumble shyly, Kozu slowly nodding as I avoid looking at him. "If it was for your business, then why was Arthur and his family there?" Suna asks and I press my lips together, taking the spoon and my bowl to the sink. "As she said… we're technically not to talk about it. It's currently a private project between our companies that's in the works. You'll probably hear of it in the news when the time comes." Arthur says simply, the trio seeming curious as they nod. "It's boring business stuff." Kanori snorts as he comes over, taking my bowl and spoon and rinsing it for me. "Oh! Mommy introduced me to all the people and everyone cheered for me!" Nen says excitedly, Kuroo looking confused as he glances at me. "Nen is technically Kioshi's foster son." I say and he hums, smiling over at Nen. "That must've been fun." Suna hums, Nen smiling widely at him. "Eh! I had more fun watching you guys play volleyball, but it was pretty cool! I just imagined they were cheering for me playing volleyball!" Nen chimes, though Kanori and I share a concerned look- would he want to lead the family businesses?

I put Nen to sleep, giving him a soft forehead kiss before I gently tuck him in with the blankets. "Good night, my sweet little bean." I whisper, brushing my fingers through his hair before I pull away and walk out of the door. "You can't tell them." Arthur whispers as I pull the door shut behind me, looking over at him. "I know." I whisper back and he follows me to my room, seeming to hesitate. "I think you forget who I am, Arthur. I can keep a secret." I say and he stops, though I pause and look back at him. "Just… remember what you have to do." Arthur says and I fully turn to face him, looking him dead in the eye. "My children come first. They always have, they always will- this… it's what's best. I know that. I won't hesitate when the time comes, Arthur. It's what's best in the end, isn't it?" I ask and he swallows thickly, looking me in the eyes. "But… Kiki, you're going to have to make a choice." Arthur says and I reach my hand out, taking his hand and squeezing it lightly. "I won't hesitate." I say and he hesitantly nods, dropping his gaze. "That's what I'm scared of. You're losing your happiness for me, again." He admits quietly before turning, walking away.

I walk around the corner, seeing Kozu there- I look him in the eyes before I walk past him, though he takes my hand. I pause, knowing what he wanted to ask- "I can't tell you." I whisper and he hesitates before he slides his fingers into me. "Just… will you be happy?" He asks and I look him in the eyes, not knowing what to say. "I don't know." I admit, dropping my gaze though he scoops me into his arms. "You know I'll always be here, waiting and supporting you, right?" Kozu whispers- and for the first time, those words hurt because they were the honest truth. "You're not going to abort, are you?" Kuroo asks and I look back, seeing he was there too. "No. I would never." I say and he offers me a small, relieved smile. "Then I'll support you too." Kuroo says, coming over and hugging me too. "We all will- no matter what." Suna says as he also comes and hugs me- jeez, they always like coming out of the blue one by one, don't they? How could I tell them that I was making a decision that would mean saying goodbye? How could I tell them that when the time came, I would leave them again, for longer than the man had taken me, far much longer? I still couldn't fully give myself to them.

I know I was guilty, I knew it- but I greedily took all of their love and attention that I could. I soaked it all up while I could, taking all the love and attention that they offered. Deep down I knew they would be hurt when the time came, but… it's what's best for me, my children and my family. I knew everyone would be hurt when news broke- but… it's what was best, right? Arthur's plan was full proof, Kioshi had already said it would work perfectly. He had even been brought in on Arthur's secret and he couldn't be happier to help us both, especially since no one would get hurt… but them. We had to keep it a secret, we did- if we let it slip, there's no telling what would happen. We couldn't trust anyone until after the dust had settled, we'd be leaving behind a mess. I only hoped that nobody hated me in the end- I was probably going to break their hearts and that hurt me the most. This plan… it would be the last stand before I could truly be happy with them. Once the dust settled… I could come back, I could raise my children and be happy and… maybe they'd be waiting. Maybe they'd move on- maybe I'd be left alone, having to deal with knowing I broke their hearts.

Days turned to weeks, weeks turned to months- before I knew it I was due anyday, struggling to move and just being as close as I could with them- after all… the time was ticking down to soak up their love before I had to leave it behind. I wanted it while I can- I was greedy and selfish. It was hard to break down sometimes- a few times I cried quietly to myself at night, my heart aching from the secret I held. I wanted to beg them to wait for me, to tell them it all- but I couldn't. I couldn't say a word, all I could do was swallow down my bitter feelings and move on. When the time came… I couldn't hesitate, or I would turn back. But… this was for my children. This was for Arthur, this was for Kioshi and Kanori- I was doing a big favor for them all. This was even for Akemi and Mitsu, who were very much looking forward to their retirement that was coming. This was for everyone- with this money I could support my friends through their careers, with this power… even if they left me behind, even if they moved on… with this money, power and connections, I could guarantee that they got the positions they wanted, that they were happy with their lives without me.

I shift lightly, feeling a contraction- I let out a soft groan, Suna perking up from our current cuddling position. "You okay?" He asks and I shift lightly, the contraction subsiding. "Mhm…" I mumble as I sit up- Kozu quickly helps me as I take a deep breath, working my way to the edge of the bed. "Can… you call Arthur?" I mumble and Kozu nods as Suna comes over, looking confused. "What's wrong, Sunshine?" Suna asks and I shake my head, offering him a smile. "I'm fine, I promise. Just… can you get the bag?" I ask and Suna's eyes widen as Kozu fumbles with his phone, almost dropping it. "Y-you're going into labor?" Suna asks, quickly darting over to the closet and pulling out the bag we had prepared. "Not yet, just… contractions. I've been having them for a while now, but… they're getting closer together." I admit, Suna curses as he comes over and scoops me up. "Why didn't you say anything?!" Suna hisses as he starts carrying me out to the car, though I just cling to him. "Well, it's not my first time… I didn't want you to panic. When the contractions are five minutes apart, you're closer, so…" I mumble as Kozu quickly scrambles after us, phone to his ear.

"A-Arthur? U-um, we're taking her to the hospital… yeah, she's been having them for a while now… she didn't tell us…" Kozu says, sounding mildly panicked as Suna gets me settled in the car. "Stay here." Suna says as he sets the bag down, dashing back into the house as Kozu crawls into the other chair. "Yeah, you weren't lying when you said she's freakily calm about it… I'm gonna call Kuroo…" Kozu says, humming affirmatively before he hangs up, giving me an anxious look. "Are… you okay?" He asks as he turns back to his phone, clicking on another contact. "I'm fine. When my water breaks we should be more concerned." I say and he hums softly, though Kioshi comes out of the house with Suna in tow. "Kuroo? Yeah… everything's fine, just… it's time? I think? She's being… really calm about this… but she's having contractions, we're going to the hospital now…" Kozu says as Kioshi climbs into the driver seat, Suna climbing into the passenger. We got all buckled and settled in before Kioshi started driving- Kanori was going to come afterwards with Nen. "Her water hasn't broken yet…" Kozu says, though I reach over and take his free hand.

Okay, it didn't get any less painful the second time around. I groaned, my hand on my stomach as I felt another contraction coming on- "You said last time you had a c-section?" The doctor asks and I nod, taking deep breaths and blowing them out. "T-That was f-five years ago." I pant, clenching my fist in the blanketing as I squeeze my eyes shut. "I'm not seeing any crowning… it doesn't look like you're fully dilated either, but you say you're having full contractions?" He says and I whimper- fuck it hurt. "Yes! Yes- fuck!" I squeak, throwing my head back as I scream in pain, seeming to startle the doctor. "Oh- Oh! Nurse! Prepare the operating room immediately! I need help here! Prepare for an emergency C-Section, top priority!" The doctor says as he quickly puts on some gloves, nurses and other dashing in as I writhe in pain. I let out another scream, feeling my body straining as tears dripped down my face- it hurt. "The baby! T-They- I think they're getting hurt! Please! Save them!" I beg, black dots appearing in the corners of my vision as I begin to hyperventilate. "1-2-3!" The people say, moving me to the stretcher, though I pass out from the pain as they cart me out.

"She's coming back." The doctor says as I stir, still half out of it- god, it hurts all over. "The baby..." I croak, glancing around with bleary eyes as the doctor checks my vitals. "Congratulations, you gave birth to a healthy baby boy." The doctor asks and I relax, an easy smile spreading over my face. "Thank god…" I whisper, feeling the exhaustion settle in as he offers me a big smile. "You're a very strong girl, very smart, too. If you hadn't known what you were dealing with… well, we might've waited until it was too late. Luckily the baby is safe, but… there was some damage on your end. I'm afraid you'll never be able to conceive again. We tried our best to minimize the damage, but..." The doctor says and I press my lips together- I knew it, I had expected it. It still hurt, though. "Do you have a name in mind?" The doctor says, bringing my attention back- my healthy baby boy… "Tet. Tet Suzuki…" I mumble, the doctor nodding and giving me a wide smile. "We're just gonna finish up here then we'll get you a room with your boy, alright?" He says and I nod, slowly blowing out a breath. Wow, I actually managed to wake up after giving birth this time- well, last time… oh well.

He was beautiful- absolutely beautiful. A beautiful, 8 lb, 4 oz 20 inch baby boy with a full head of black hair. He was a bit on the big side, but more well developed 'I'm gonna be big, strong and tall' type. I cradled him in my arms even though I was exhausted, smiling and adoring every little bit of him- my sweet, sweet baby Tet. I wonder what color his eyes would be? Would they be blue, like mine or… maybe they'd get the same color as Akaashi and Nen? That would be nice… but… I would like a golden color like Kuroo or Kozu's… Suna's greyish yellow was nice. I had already breast fed him- he was a great feeder, latched on quickly and got right into the habit. He was a hungry boy, too- maybe I should get in touch with a nutritionist about his diet? I wanted to make sure he was happy and healthy and had a good diet… He was resting now, he had opened his eyes before and I had gotten a peek of blue, but they could change as he got older. The door opened and I glanced up, seeing Arthur walk in first- his eyes lit up as he saw the baby, though I gave him a stern look. "Stay away from my child, you pincher." I warn, making Arthur laugh as he comes over, the others following him.

"Is that him?" Noya says as he dashes over with sparkling eyes, leaning over and swooning. "Let me see, let me see!" Tanaka says as he pushes Noya out of the way, cooing at the baby. "Get out of the way!" Atsumu says as he yanks Tanaka and Noya back, grinning widely as he peeks at the baby. "Aww, look at this cutie!" Atsumu gushes, making me laugh as Tet shifts lightly. "'Scuse me!" Arthur says as he rounds to the other side, lifting up a camera and snapping a picture. "Sweet." He says, smiling at me- we needed to get him a passport asap, we already had his birth certificate. "I'm glad you didn't go into a coma this time." Arthur says, making my lip twitch as I nod. "Me too." I admit, Arthur looked over the picture. "Any clue on an eye color yet?" He asks and I shrug, shaking my head. "They're blue right now, but… they'll probably change." I say and he hums, though the room falls silent as the door opens. Everyone looks over, though I can't see past anyone- I wonder who it was? I heard panting, so whoever it was they were winded. The crowd seems to part and I watch curiously as Kuroo emerges from the midst of them, swallowing thickly when he sees us.

"May I?" He asks softly, gesturing to Tet with trembling hands as I offer him a sweet smile. "If you sit down, first. You're shaking like a leaf." I say and immediately Noya grabs the chair, setting it behind Kuroo. Kuroo takes it, bringing it as close to the hospital bed as he can, tears gathering in his hands as he holds out his hands. I lean over, gently letting Kuroo take Tet in his hands as he suddenly seems to stop shaking. He pulls the baby into his embrace, cradling his body and head properly as his eyes dart over the babe, seeming to memorize every bit of him. "He's got a full head of hair." Kuroo laughs softly, a warm and loving smile spreading over his face as his eyes fill with pure adoration. "I didn't suffer all that heartburn for nothing." I muse, making Kuroo laugh softly though he falls silent when Tet shifts lightly. Tet stretches out his arm, his eyes fluttering lightly as he coos softly. "He recognizes you." I muse softly, Kuroo pressing his lips tightly together though they curl into a big goofy grin. "Must be all that midnight talking I did to him." Kuroo chuckles softly, lifting one of his fingers up and sliding it into his small grip- the sight of his pure love made my heart squeeze.

"What… um… did you name him?" Kuroo asks as I pull myself to sit up more, flinching lightly when I feel the stitches pull. "Mm… Tet." I say and Kuroo's eyes dart to mine with surprise. "You… You named him Tet?" He asks and I nod, looking down at the baby and smiling. "It just fit." I say and Kuroo gives me a big toothy smile as he chuckles, looking back down at Tet. "Well, hello… Tet." Kuroo whispers softly, though Arthur lifts up his camera and snaps another picture. "For the album." Arthur muses, though Kuroo's too distracted admiring Tet to even bother listening. "Kuroo… can I?" Kozu asks shyly and Kuroo looks over, offering Kozu a bright smile. "Of course, but… you gotta sit down and ask mom, first." Kuroo muses, making me laugh as I nod my head. Kozu sits down beside me on the bed, holding out his hands. They carefully trade Tet and Suna comes over beside me, taking a seat on the other side of the bed, leaning over and giving my forehead a kiss. "Good job, Mama." Suna whispers, making me smile as he gently pets my hair. "He's beautiful." Kozu whispers, admiring Tet with his own sweet smile and adoring eyes- though Arthur takes plenty of pictures.

OC Leaves

It was weird thinking this would be the first- and last- time I brought Tet to this home for a long time. Kuroo, Kozu and Suna were happy- they couldn't be happier, bringing us into the house. They didn't know that I would be leaving, that Kioshi and Arthur were getting Tet's passport finalized before we put the plan into action. It was weird to think that I held this secret from them only for it to come to fruit in 24 hours- I didn't know if they'd ever forgive me. I didn't know if they would ever look at me the same, if they could still face me after the next 24 hours. How would they feel when they woke up and I was gone? How would they feel when I laid with them tonight only to slip away when they were asleep? A small part of me hoped that they would forgive me, that they would wait and I'd be able to explain when the time came… but deep down I knew that I was betraying them. Deep down I knew… after the first week their hearts would be broken, they would feel as if I turned my back on them. At least… at least I could support and love them from afar, right? All these days I had been discussing their dreams with them, wondering what they wanted out of their lives… I could give them that.

Kuroo was carrying the carseat, the only thing I would be taking with me tonight. After the plan was in action… I would have enough money to buy myself anything I could ever want. Judas was already on a flight to be our witness, but she wouldn't arrive till morning. As soon as she did arrive… it would be time. "Kiki?" Kozu asks, snapping me out of my thoughts as I realized I had stopped walking. "Hm? Oh, sorry." I say, catching up with them as they walked me up to the critter house. "You okay?" Kozu asks and I shrug, looking up at the house. "A lot on my mind." I admit and he hums softly, taking my hand and giving it a squeeze. "We're here if you want to talk about it." Kozu says and I can't help but crack a halfhearted bittersweet smile. "I know… maybe someday I'll tell you, if you're still willing to listen." I say and he falls silent, seeming curious as he moves on. I wonder; if he knew I was leaving, would he beg me to stay? Would he take those words and hold them as hope that I would come back, even as the time wore on? Would they be what kept him waiting for me until I did finally come back and explained it all to him? Would he forgive or would he forget all about me?

"Do you want to cuddle?" Suna asks and I hum softly, slowly nodding my head. "That… that would be nice…" I admit quietly, Kuroo setting the carseat in the entryway and carefully pulling Tet out. Kuroo cradles Tet against his broad chest, humming softly as he carries him to my room, everyone following behind. Would… would this be the last time Kuroo held Tet? Would this be the last time we cuddled? Kozu's finger slipped into mine, holding my hand tight as he guided me to my room- they had moved it downstairs because I couldn't take stairs with my c-section, though I had been in the hospital until I was cleared for all activities- including flights, which I would be taking soon. They had bought everything the baby could need- okay, Arthur bought it when he learned what they were trying to do, but… it would only be used for one day. The thought of them all being so prepared and ready… it broke my heart. Kuroo carefully laid Tet into the cradle beginning to gently rock him back and forth- it was night time, so he was already fast asleep. Kozu, Suna and I curled up into the bed, assuming our usual 4 way cuddling position while we waited for Kuroo.

They caressed me, kissed me and cuddled me- I just cried in silence, tears streaming down my face as I accepted the last of their love. My heart felt like it was being torn to shreds in my chest, but they still sat, whispering words of love and encouragement to me as they comforted me. I took it all- all their words, all their comfort as I closed my eyes and rested. Kuroo joined us after a while, seeming pretty restless as he assumed his position, completing my cocoon of love. I wished I could have this forever, that I could give them all that I was, that I could give them their hopes and dreams without having to hide this, without breaking their hearts… but it was better if they didn't know. They couldn't know. Nobody could, because the media would be all over it- if they knew the marriage was a sham, that there were tricks and lies hidden within… the families could have it annulled, it needed to be established for at least 5 years before we could go back to the way things were. Soon enough, Suna dozed off. Kozu followed not long after. Kuroo… he was restless, but he seemed pretty tired as well. Would… would they still love me after I hurt them? I didn't want to hurt them, not at all…

My phone binged at the crack of dawn- I hadn't slept a wink. I slowly slip out of their embrace, sliding over to the crib. "My love?" Kuroo croaks softly, rubbing his eye as I pause for a second. "I'm just feeding Tet." I whisper and he hums, rolling back over as I felt tears gather in my eyes and my lip trembling. I slid my hands into the crib, shushing Tet softly as he fussed lightly- did he know what was coming? Would he understand? My heart ached in my chest as I slipped out of the room, shutting the door quietly behind me. Arthur was waiting outside, a bittersweet, sad smile on his face as he offered me the carseat. I slid Tet within, holding back my tears as I quietly secured him in the car seat. I scrub the tears from my eyes as Arthur takes the car seat, carrying it to the front door. I glanced back as I heard a light shift in the room, though I followed Arthur with my heart heavy in my chest. It's… for the best… I said I wouldn't hesitate… and I shouldn't. It would only make it harder for us all if I showed weakness… I could walk away, right? I could- "Kimiko?" Kuroo whispers, my heart freezing in my chest as I stop in my tracks, Arthur buckling Tet into the car as I stand in the doorway.

"This… this isn't goodbye, is it?" Kuroo asks and I feel a lump in my throat, bitter hot tears in my eyes. "I want this. I want us. I want you- I want to have a family with you." Kuroo whispers, his voice trembling as I press my lips together- I… wouldn't hesitate, right?... it was… what's best… for us all… "Tet… he's my son, Kimiko. No… he's our baby boy. I… I wasn't supposed to tell you… but… he is. I have the paternity test to prove it." Kuroo says and I feel my heart shatter in my chest, my whole body trembling- "Kimiko." Arthur calls and my eyes dart to him- he was waiting with the driver door open, one foot inside. He had a sad, knowing look in his eyes- he knew. He knew the whole time. He knew that I was broken and vulnerable right now. "It's what's best for us all, remember?" Arthur says and a tear slides down my face as I let out a soft sob, letting my head fall. I tear myself apart, I take that step, I take another- my feet feel like 10 pound cement bricks and my lungs feel like they're full of water, I feel like I'm suffocating as I walk away from Kuroo… and just as life did, it hammered the last nail in the coffin with Kuroo's soft sob and a thump of him crumbling to his knees.

I left him broken. I left him hurt, with no answers and too many questions. But I couldn't bring myself to say a word. What would I even say? 'I'll be back'? 'Please wait for me'? 'I want us too'? Any word I said… it would've only made it harder for us both. But… it hurt so fucking much. It hurt worse than anything in my life, knowing that I was taking Kuroo's son from him, that I was taking his happiness. It broke my fucking heart and I felt like a monster all over again, suffocating on the sad miserable truth that if it had been me… I would have been fucking broken hearted. If someone I loved took my beloved children from me with no answers, regardless… I would have been fucking broken, especially after I helped them through it all. I felt broken for him. I was fucking devasted- I never expected him to forgive me for this. I fucking knew he'd be spending sleepless nights crying, begging for me to come back- but what could I tell him? What could I say? What could I even fucking do? This… this had to be a secret, it had to be kept under wraps. I was under an NDA, Arthur was under an NDA, Kioshi was under an NDA, Judas was under an NDA- nobody could say anything.

Not until 5 years passed. I had to take his son away for 5 fucking years- it broke my heart, it really did. It left me a hollow shell all over again, it made me feel monstrous and devastated. My only solace? I… I had a little piece of him in the back seat. Maybe… maybe he could forgive me, but i really didn't expect him to. I really fucking didn't. Would he file for custody? What would I do then? What if he hated me so much he never wanted to hear a word from me- what if he filed for custody and I won? I couldn't exactly give visitation rights, I just- "Kimiko." Arthur says and I stop thinking as I blink, staring blankly at the road. "It'll be okay. You're a fantastic woman, you're a fantastic mother and… they're… it'll be okay. We'll get through this, together." Arthur says and I swallow thickly, tears building in my eyes. "He's the father." I croak, a broken, sad admission as Arthur slowly nods his head. "Yes, he is." Arthur whispers and I let out a soft choke, covering my eyes. "Oh god, I'm a fucking monster." I sob and Arthur's hand darts out, taking mine. "Think of the kids, Kimiko. Think of it all- You're doing this for them. You have to be strong." Arthur says, squeezing my hand as I break down.

"He's the father! He- he- oh my god, Arthur, all that time- he was- he just- he wanted to be a dad, he wanted- Arthur, I'm a fucking monster! I don't- I just- I keep thinking, what if it had been me in his position? What if- what if the person I loved took my son without- without saying anything? What- what- oh my god, I'm the fucking worst, Arthur. My heart- it fucking hurts! It hurts so fucking bad, Arthur!" I sob, frantically scrubbing at my tears as he presses his lips together. "Look, I understand you're feeling pretty fucking shitty right now, Kimiko- but you have to remember you're doing this for the greater good. You're doing the wrong thing for the right reason- you're the strongest person in the world for being able to walk away like that, and I fucking know how tempting it is to walk back there and explain it all or to stay but… you have to remember, this is for the greater good. Even superheroes have to make some tough fucking decisions once and a while, okay? You're no superhero, but you're not a monster for doing what you think is the best. If it was Kuroo in your position, he would do the same. He would. We both know it." Arthur says and I sniff, my heart still aching.

"He… he wanted to marry me, you know? He proposed, he… he got… he got everyones… he even convinced my fucking Gramps, Arthur. He convinced my grandpa… and yet… here I am… taking his son… getting hitched and… I just… I feel so fucking miserable. I fucking know it's for the best but… I just… he's… he's… he's gonna be fucking hurt because of me. That fucking hurts. It really fucking hurts- I'm fucking miserable and just… I feel so horrible, I do. I just fucking do. Like… I know… I know what I'm doing… I know why I'm doing it… but… what if the price is his heart? Am I… Am I willing to… Am I willing to break his heart for-" I choke, though my ring suddenly lights up. "I love you. I trust you." Kuroo's voice whispers through the ring and I choke up all over again, "I'll… I'll wait, okay? I know you're hurting, too." Kuroo's voice whispers and I break down again, sobbing hysterically. "Take care of Tet… and… tell him about me… please." Kuroo's soft, broken voice sounds and I swear I have never cried harder in my life than in those moments, my heart shattering in my chest. "I-I love you too! I'm sorry! I'm so fucking sorry!" I wail, sobbing like a fucking neglected baby.

Once I calm down and stop crying, only left with soft hiccups and my broken heart… Arthur speaks. "It'll be okay, Kiki. We're doing this for the greater good. The ones benefiting the most are the children- If Kuroo gets that mad at you for securing a greater future for your children, if he never forgives you… Well, he's denying a greater future for his son, too. Kuroo is a reasonable man, however- he understands. He does. That's exactly why he sent those messages- he's asking you to do what you think is right, for your sake and his. He loves and trusts you to do what is best for everyone. He'll wait for you to come back and explain, he understands that this is a difficult decision for you solely because you know you're going to hurt him. He only asks that while you're gone that you take care of your son, Tet, in return, and… if it takes long, then to make sure that Tet knows about his father. He gets it- It'll be okay. You're not alone, I'm here with you- Kioshi's with you, Kanori's with you, Judas is with you, Nen and Tet are with you- you're doing this to make everyone's life better, including theirs. It'll be okay." He says and I slowly nod, sniffing lightly as I rub the tears from my eyes.

Kuroo sits on the edge of the bed, staring at the empty crib and feeling like a hollow, broken shell of a man. Seeing her walk away had been painful, but… seeing how much it broke and hurt her hurt even more. He hoped she would be okay, he really did- he was broken and confused, but more than anything he was worried about her- and his son. His fucking son, she had taken him, too- he knew she'd take care of him, she did. He knew she'd be a wonderful mother, that his son would become a wonderful man under her care- but it was his fucking son and it hurt not being able to at least say goodbye or hold him one last time. The thought of it brought tears to his eyes, a thick lump in his throat. He also knew if he did ask for that, if he did hold him… He wouldn't be able to let go. She wouldn't be able to let go. His head was pounding and his heart aching, his body sore from having been crying for so long. He was really waiting for the other two to wake up so he could break the news… he knew they would be hurt, too. He didn't even know what he would tell him- he didn't even know the answers to any of the questions he had, he really didn't. He wished he did so he could tell them something.

But he had nothing. He had nothing to tell them except that she was gone, she had taken the baby with her, that Arthur and her drove away at the crack of dawn. That's really all he had, all he could really tell them. She had been so broken when she walked away, he had felt bad for telling her that Tet was his son… because that seemed to only break her. Whatever she was doing, as Arthur had said… it was what's best for everyone and she agreed with that enough that she walked away. But… she walked away from him. She walked away with his child- a part of him was bitter and angry, wondering what could be more important than him and what he had to offer. A different part of him knew that she knew the answer and that she was doing it for all of them- maybe even him. It was hard to stay angry when he thought that, but he didn't have any answers and was left with… wonder, pain and a big fucking empty shell of his heart. He had no clue how long she would be gone- maybe it would only be a few hours. He hoped that was the case, he did- he hoped that his bad feeling and anxiety was just that- a bad feeling and the anxiety of being a new father, paranoia toying with him.

But… her reaction said it all. He had no choice but to trust her- he tried calling Kioshi or Kanori, but there had been no answer. He tried calling her phone- but she had left it on the bed stand. She hadn't taken anything with her but their son- it was like she was leaving her life exactly where she left it, leaving it all behind for a greater opportunity- he was reminded of her home in America, how it had been left. It was like she never left, everything, her childhood and her memories… would this room become the same? An empty shell, waiting for her return? All the nights he spent at Kioshi's house, cradling her in his arms, stroking her bountiful stomach… she took their son, whom she had unintentionally named after him. 'It felt right', she said- as if she knew deep down that he would be the father. Tet- his son, his newborn son that he promised the world to… she had taken him as soon as he had brought him home. He hadn't even begun to show him all the love and affection he held for his sweet baby boy- he was already attached to him, Kuroo knew it. Tet and him already held a bond, one that- one that he thought he earned. He thought he earned his place to be Tet's father…

Kozu stirred and Kuroo quickly wiped away his tears as he saw his friend patting around for someone who simply wasn't there. He watched the groggy confusion as he slowly looked up, seeming to wake up when he saw his friend crying. "Kuroo?" Kozu asks, genuinely confused as Suna stirs, looking quite confused himself as he rubs his eye. "She's- she's fucking gone." Kuroo croaks, Kozu's eyes widening as Suna seems to snap awake, bolting up. "Was it the man?" Suna asks dead serious and Kuroo shakes his head, tears gathering in his eyes. "She- She left. She took Tet and left with Arthur. She- She was- she was hurt… but she left… he… Arthur said… Arthur said it's what's best for us all… but… I don't fucking get it!" Kuroo says as tears gather in his eyes as he chokes. "If it's what's best for us all, then why the fuck was she broken when she left?! Why- why did she take my fucking son?! Why didn't she say anything?!" Kuroo asks, breaking down into sobs and surprising the two. "Then why the fuck is she hiding it? Why couldn't she just trust us?" Kuroo croaks, Kozu hesitantly reaching over and stroking his friends back, trying to offer him comfort.

"Do you take this man to be your lawfully wedded husband?" The judge asks and I look over at Arthur- he takes my hand, giving it a light squeeze. "I do." I say, offering him a half hearted smile that he returns with his own bittersweet smile. "And you, Arthur Pendragon, do you take this woman to be your lawfully wedded wife?" The judge asks and Arthur looks forward, lifting his head high. "I do." He says firmly, holding a straight face as the judge nods. "You may kiss the bride." The judge says and Arthur dips down, placing a quick chaste kiss on my lips. He bangs the gavel, nodding his head. "You are now wed under the court." The judge says, though my heart feels like a lump in my chest. "Thank you, Sir. You have done me and my family a great favor." Kanori says as he takes the paperwork that the judge had signed, sliding it into a vanilla folder before stashing it in his briefcase. "Well, I'm glad to help in this case. I won't speak a word of the agreement as agreed, but if anyone asks you were officially married in all ways, shapes and forms. Unless you decide to divorce, well… you aren't divorcing." The judge says as he stands up, bowing his head to us.

"Good luck. I wish you a long happy marriage." The judge says, tears gathered on my face as I pasted on a watery smile, one that I definitely didn't feel. "Thank you." I croak, quickly wiping the tears away- I had to be strong. "Thank you." Arthur says, squeezing my hand tight as the judge steps out of the room. "Well… Are you ready to go face the music?" Arthur asks and I let out a shuddering breath, pressing my lips together. "Ready as I'll ever be." I whisper and he offers me his arm which I take, pasting a big fake smile on my face. "You've got this, Kimiko Suzuki. You're a strong, capable woman- everything will be just fine. You've got us on your side." Kioshi says as he gently pats my shoulder and I nod, though I can't bring myself to honestly smile. "And… it's posted." Kanori says, waving his phone as he offers us a grin. Your anonymous tip has kickstarted it all, the reporters should be nipping at your heels." Kanori says and I nod, gripping tighter to Arthur's room. "Welcome to the world of spotlights, Kimiko… we're gonna be stuck here for a while." Arthur mumbles as we all gather up our things, walking out of the court house- reporters flock to us, already asking questions.

"Don't fucking worry about it, huh?" Suga hisses as he drops the news article in front of Kuroo, his heart sinking in his chest as he sees the headline. "Well, look who just got hitched!" Suga yells, his blood boiling and tears in his eyes. "Does she look fucking happy in that picture?" Kozu says as he takes the paper, throwing it at Suga. "I- no! She doesn't, okay?! That's the fucking problem! She looks fucking miserable!" Suga says as he snatches the paper up, waving at them all- they had called a meeting to discuss Kimiko's disappearance again the next day, only to be met with the news of her marriage. Kuroo runs a hand over his face, tears in her eyes- he could trust her, right? At least… at least now he could see his son and… he could see what she was doing… and… maybe he could get an idea of what they were doing. "She's supposed to be happy! She married the fucking love of her life- but she looks fucking miserable! We- We can't even do anything about it! They're in fucking america, you know that?! What can we do?! Not shit! We just- We gotta watch her be miserable and know- she did it for Arthur because of us." Suga chokes, breaking down as they all turn somber.