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Masterlist // Rules // Tao’s Story

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"Anything else?" Filo looks at him, confused. "No? Not that I can think of. How about you? The set-up in the living room is... usually only there when something bad happens. Was the team shitty?" Tao makes a sound, quickly shaking their head. "No, no, they were... very remourseful. The cave is...", they shrug, "I just missed you. Wanted to do something." Their sister laughs, pulling them into a tight hug. "You're so cute, Tao! Thank you." Tao hugs her back, chuckling a little bit. He doesn't quite get what she deems cute about him this time, but they won't complain. Filo lets go of them soon enough, smiling and humming to herself as she helps with the onigiri. With another set of hands, the snacks are done quickly, both of them settling in the blanket fort to watch movies. The choice falls on Ghibli, the studio just doesn't miss with their works.

Filo hums after the first movie. "I think I'll forgive them." Tao gives her a look, nodding slowly. It's her choice, ultimately. They won't decide for her, or influence her. "They'll apologize properly, show me they regret it, and promise on their mothers to never, ever do something like that again. If they do that, I'll forgive them."

"Damn, that's messed up", Mika says, leaning back against the fence. Daishou nods, eating some bites of his lunch. He had told his ex about what had happened the day before, needing to vent to someone. "I can't understand why they thought it'd be a good idea", he mumbles, sighing deeply, "Like... what if she had asthma or so? Heck, even without anything like that, without her being claustrophobic... How could they think locking someone somewhere was a good idea?!" He huffs a bit, chewing his lip. Mika shrugs, unable to give much of an answer. She can think of some, but not a single one can even remotely justify the cats' approach. They had already lost when they decided to know better than the people involved, when they decided to do things without asking either of the wanted couple for their opinion on the help. "Think she'll forgive them?", she finally asks, just to break the silence between them. Daishou can only shrug.

"I've never seen her truly angry before. But neither did I ever see her truly sad or... anything, really. She's that type of person who seems to be locked in 'calm, content and happy' all the time. The one where any other emotion shown just... tells you things are very, very wrong. The once who's reaction you can't predict because it never happened before." Mika nods slowly, humming as she taps her chin. "That is complicated... I can see everyone on edge about it", she hums again, "If she doesn't... you think they'd transfer here?" "Probably." Mika blinks at the quiet tone of Daishou's answer. He had always gone on and on about how much better Nohebi would be if his boyfriend would attent here. How much more fun every day would be here, how much better the volleyball team would be, how much more he'd enjoy practice if he had Tao by his side. For him to sound so... sad, over the prospect of his wish to come true was alarming.

"I thought you wanted them here", Mika starts, carefully. As expected, Daishou nods, hands clenching and relaxing, chewing his lips. She gives him time to form the words, waiting for his answer. "I do want him here, but... not like this. Not because they betrayed him. I want Tao here because they want to be here, not because... not because they're escaping something. Nekoma means something big to them. I don't want him to lose all that."

Tao walks alongside a ranting Kuroo and Kenma, who occasionally murmurs, back home. The rest of the day went pretty quickly, besides the awkward practices. The team was dead silent, so much so Nekomata had to yell for them in reminder to communicate. Tao spent most of the classes in deep heavy thought, replaying the events of yesterday in guilt, doodling and scribbling in their notebook. They'd missed Filo all day, more than usual, all day going forgetting until leaving afternoon practice that she wasn't walking with them home. Daishou quickly joined them, immediately going to hold onto Tao's hand, Kuroo pouting and grabbing onto their other one. It didn't take long for him to notice Tao's sad eyes and drooped shoulders. He frowned, nudging his arm. " What's wrong," He asks. Kuroo and Kenma look over as well, listening. Tao hesitates, words getting caught in their throat. He clears it and weakly shrugs his shoulders, shaking. "...I miss her. I-I forgot all day she was gonna be gone at the doctors after school." He murmurs. Kenma adverts his gaze down to the sidewalk, mentally agreeing. He was sad too, had missed Filo all day and didn't even get to walk home with her. Kuroo deflates and moves to wrap an arm around Tao's shoulder, sighing. "Oh Tao..I know she misses you too, a ton." He murmurs and places a soft kiss to their head. Daishou hums in agreement, squeezing their joined hands. "He's right, yknow. I'm sorry she isn't here, maybe when you get home you can set something up for you two? I know you do movie nights. Put on her favorite movie or show?" He throws out. Tao listens and slowly nods, a small light catching in his eyes as they smile faintly. "That sounds really nice..I think she'd like that.." He murmurs.

Some time later, they're on their way to Nekoma, though today, everyone walks a little slower. Trying to stall time, trying to delay the inevitable confrontation in the gym. Filo hums, breaking the silence. "I won't be there after club today." Kuroo and Kenma turn, looking at her in shock for a moment, before nodding. "Can't blame you for that", the captain starts, only to be interrupted. "Oh not because of what they did, I just have get HRT today." Kuroo makes a sound of acknowledgment, nodding. Sure, that was important... "Wait, what?" His voice jumps up an octave, turning fully to face the girl. Same for Daishou, equally caught off guard by the reason. To both their surprise, Kenma isn't the least bit fazed. "HRT. Hormone replacement therapy. Y'know?" Filo tilts her head in question, wondering if neither ever heard of it. Kenma shrugs. "Don't tell you didn't know", he says, praying that they're just joking. Tao is sending equal prayers, unwilling to believe their boyfriends were this dense. After all, his sister had never made a secret of her identity.

Kuroo puts on an easy smile and nods, hands shoved in his pockets. "'course i did." Daishou nods after and glances at Tao who watches them, already clocking they were lying. He already knew he wouldn't have to worry about them somehow disliking her now simply for being trans, but he did worry that they were dumb enough to not understand or accidentally be hurtful. Those were still possibilities. Filo either didn't notice or didn't necessarily care, continuing her walk alongside a murmuring Kenma. Soon Daishou parts, extremely reluctantly, giving his boyfriends a long hug and kiss each, watching them as he steps onto the diverting sidewalk. Definitely always the hardest part of his day. It seemed harder in the mornings than after school, especially so considering hed spent the whole afternoon and night with them.

"I'm gonna pick up some things from the convenience store by our house after school, I'll make sure to get some of your favorites." Tao smiles as Filo hugs him tight, pulling away with an eager smile. "I'll remember that. Pay attention in class. Dont work them hard!" She says, directing the last part at Kuroo. She gives Kenma a warm hug and kiss on the head before heading to the photography club room. Kenma watches her with a small sigh and drooped shoulders, immediately almost following as Kuroo rests a heavy arm over his shoulders, walking to the gym. Tao enters last behind them, pace fast and eyes averted to the ground below. The gym before the door opened was a string of quiet murmurs, immediately going silent as the trio enters and quickly exits out to the locker room.

Kuroo is the first to enter back in, per changing very quickly as Tao and Kenma take their time inside. Kuroo exhales as he glances at the team who stare away in guilt and shame before slowly approaching him. "Kuroo." Yaku steps forward first, maintaining eye contact before bowing so deeply his head almost touches his knees. "We are all sorry for locking Kenma and Filo in the supply closet." He murmurs, still holding the bow as other teammates stand next to him and do the same. "It..was cruel and we didn't take into the fact that she was claustrophobic. Setting aside our intentions, it was still wrong to try and even force them together." He murmurs. Other teammates murmur in agreement and apologies. Kuroo glances over at Coach Nekomata who merely shrugs and smiles tiredly him, it wasnt his apology to accept. Kuroo slowly exhales, arms crossed. "I accept the apology, but i'll only believe you all until i can feel confident something like that will never happen again." He says calmly. Everyone slowly rises and nods. "But, I'm also the last one to apologize to. I need to see the same for Tao, Kenma, and Filo."

The doors to the locker room open as Kenma and Tao come out after, staring at them all gathered around Kuroo. Tao exhales and freezes in place as they step over, Kenma stilling behind him. Kai is the one this time to step the closest and bows deep. "We are all incredibly sorry, Tao." He starts, "We shouldn't have even planned to try and get them together, it was cruel and dismissive. It was selfish." He says. Tao stares and tries to push down the bubbling anger and upset inside, slightly calming when Kenma rests a hand on his shoulder. "I..i can't accept that right now. Not until Filo does." They murmur. "I..Ive never been so upset in my life that this occurred. I don't...care for whatever excuse, you should have brought these ideas to me or Kuroo. We are closest to her and Kenma. But you didn't and my sister went through something traumatic." They murmur, fists balling. "If something like this happens again, I will immediately have me and her transferred to another school. I am not joking." They say before moving past them, stopped by Kuroo who gives them a supporting hug.

"I don't know if I can forgive them", Tao whispers, setting doen his chopsticks, "Obviously I won't if she doesn't, but... even if Filo does, I don't know if I can." Kuroo's angry mood instantly drops, replaced by a need to comfort his partner. He puts his food down, scooting a little closer to Tao, putting an arm around them. When that isn't rejected, he pulls them into a real hug, Tao's arms instantly wrapping around him in return. Daishou takes place on Tao's other side, hugging them as well. Safe between their boyfriends, Tao allows himself to get it all out. It's long. It's ugly, and angry, and frustrated, and then just exhausted. Finally, Tao doesn't has any energy left, falling asleep in Kuroo's arms. Daishou moves slowly, braiding Tao's hair and tying it, not wanting his partner to have knots in there tomorrow. Kuroo picks them up slowly, carefully, so they won't wake up again, carrying them to bed. Daishou helps with tucking Tao in, both cleaning up the plates in silence. "We're staying the night, aren't we?", Daishou asks, voice merely a whisper. Kuroo nods, giving Daishou the signal to text his family.

An hour later, they both have prepared futons on the living room floor. Kenma had taken one on Filo's floor. Kuroo had run home and packed some essentials; toothbrush, change of clothes, extras so Daishou had clean underwear tomorrow. Now lying next to each other, they don't know how to fill the silence. Both know the other is awake. Both know the other wants to say something. Neither knowing who should make the first move, how to even begin their own statement. It's Kuroo who breaks the silence. "If you want to offer them to transfer to Nohebi, you have my blessing." Daishou blinks, pushing himself up on his arms to look at his boyfriend, unsure if he heard right. "What? You are always so against them transferring." Which is true. For all they buried the bad blood between them, if Daishou brings up Tao switching to Nohebi, he and Kuroo are back to arguing in full force. But it's not only the statement that catches Daishou off-guard. It's the utterly defeated, bordering on hopeless tone that Kuroo's voice had.

Kuroo rolls over, looking at Daishou. The look in his eyes sucks the air out the room, at least that's what it feels like for Daishou. His blood runs cold, his heart skipping a beat, and not for the good reasons. Kuroo's usually so lively eyes, that always hold a mischievous glint and a smirk, look so empty and dead. Like he lost the reason to continue forward. "I mean it. The team is supposed to stick together, work together, be there for each other. Instead, they traumatized someone. Potentially. And it hurt Tao, too. How is he supposed to be on court with them, and act like nothing happened?" Daishou blinks, tears welling in his eyes. This isn't what he wants. Sure, he'd love to have one of his partners in the same school, but... not of the others is in so much hurt. Quickly he's back on the ground, enveloping Kuroo into a tight hug. "That's not what I want", he whispers, stroking Kuroo's hair, "That's not what I want at all. Especially not if it would hurt you if he left. Yes, I love Tao, but I love you too, Kuroo. I know I don't say it often, not nearly often enough to be good enough for you, but I do. I love you. I need you. It hurts me to see you in pain and I don't want to imagine you unhappy."

He takes several deep breaths, pulling back a bit, one hand cupping Kuroo's cheek. "If Tao or Filo transfer, it'll only be because they decided to. I won't pressure them. I won't bribe him. I'll ask him a billion times if he's sure. Because I don't want to steal him from you. He's not mine alone. They're our partner and I know how happy they are with you in Nekoma. The last thing I want is to rip that away from them, and you. I love you both way too much for that. And I've seen you over the years, Kuroo. All the problems life threw at you, every impossible challenge that you still conquered." His eyes stare into Kuroo's, which are slowly regaining their light. Emboldened by this, Daishou keeps talking. "You'll conquer this dilemma, too. You'll find the solution, you always do. Because you, Tetsuro Kuroo, are the smartest, strongest, most resourceful and stubborn man I know. And I'm proud and blessed to call you my boyfriend. So don't you dare give up before having even tried. That's not the rival I fell in love with."

Kenma laid quietly on the floor in Filo's room, staring up at the dark ceiling. He heard Filo shift under her blankets over and over, not settling. He swallows, looking in the direction of her bed. "Kenma?" She murmurs quietly, snuggled in her soft blanket. He stiffens, "Yes?" He whispers quietly, turning his body to face her bed. He blinks, frowning at the lack of response. "... Are you okay?" He murmurs, immediately mentally slapping himself in the head. ".. Thank you for being here." She murmurs quietly. Kenma's frown deepens, but she continues. "I shouldve told you about being claustrophobic beforehand." She murmurs. The fear had been realized by Kenma on the way back home after practice, after it clicked why she had shut down like that. He remembered an old classmate with claustrophobia too, once locked in the bathroom by bullies playing a cruel 'prank'. He had a strong panic attack and had passed out, being rushed to the hospital.

"Didn't think I'd ever see the day you get jealous, Kenma~", he teases, shaking his head a little. His friend blinks, the blushes, realizing what he had said. He tugs at his sleeves, huffing a little, embarrased more than angry. "Well... it's true!", is all he can come up with. Filo laughs softly, smiling. "Yeah, it is. I'm not with Sugawara. I'm your girlfriend." The wide-eyed stare hadn't been seen on Kenma since Fukanage threw a bucket of water at him and Yamamoto. "Damn, straight for the kill!" Kuroo snickers, and Tao can't hide their chuckles either. Yet they beam at Filo with pride, happy that she found a partner. At least Kenma didn't have to endear himself to Tao, or proof he was a good guy. "Oh by the way, is it cool if I watch you guys train tomorrow? Club is cancelled, Hime-chan brought something to eat and... let's just say a lot of the others camped out in the nurse's office." The boys shudder at the mental image, obviously inviting Filo to watch them.

"Alright, pack it up guys!", Coach Nekomata calls out as their practice ends, most guys collapsing for a moment. Given their strange behavior had continued, Kuroo had continued to work them hard; hoping to find the source of their problem. To no avail, none of his teammates had spoken up. Unbeknowst to Kuroo, that isn't because they don't trust him, but because Kenma was within earshot every time he had asked. None of them want to risk him learning about their plan. "Kenma, can you and Filo take care of the balls?", Yamamoto asks, already throwing a ball at Filo. Kuroo huffs a bit at that, starring at his friend. "She's a guest, not the maid", he snaps, but Filo pats his arm, not wanting to make a fuss or start a fight. "It's just putting away the volleyballs, Kuroo. I doubt they'd be bold enough to run away and leave more to me." The entire team nods at that. They know they wouldn't make it far if they tried, and even then... they still had to come to school and face a very angry captain, an equally angry setter, and an absolutely furious brother.

"You really didn't have to do that", Kenma mumbles, putting the net down in it's proper place, before helping Filo secure the cart holding the volleyballs. His grilfriend (he can't believe she really is, he has a girlfriend!!!) just laughs, smiling at him. "Maybe I did it because it included you. Maybe I did it so I could spend some minutes alone with you." At seeing Kenma blush crimson, she laughs again. Kenma pouts, hands pressed to his cheeks in an attempt to make them regain their normal color. "You're a menace", he complains, only for Filo to take his hand, kissing his knuckles. "I am. You knew that. And you still fell for me. Just how I fell for you." He turns his face away, fighting the goofy smile trying to spread on his lips. Filo smiles at that, humming. "Let's get back to the others", she says, already walking to the supply closet's door. Her smile turns into a frown though, when the handle won't move. She swallows, rattling the handle more, to no avail. "It's... stuck." Her voice is quiet, but she can already feel the cold sweat on her neck and palms, can already feel how it is becoming harder to breathe. Kenma stared at her in confusion, unaware what this meant for Filo. She should have maybe informed him about her intense claustrophobia.

Kenma stills in place as Filo backsteps until her back hits the volleyball holder, sinking down as she curls into a loose ball, ironically similar to the same balls that doomed her today. Her breathing immediately picks up into hyperventilating, hot tears blurring her vision. Kenma blinks as dread fills him, looking between her and the locked door. Should he go down and sit next to her, trying to comfort her? What if just being anymore near her makes it worse? Should he try to yell and bang on the door to get out? That could make it worse for her too, and he wasn't sure he could keep in the rage at whoever did this. He slowly moves out of his frozen hold, sinking down into a sit next to Filo. He stares at her, swallowing as she seems to completely ignore her presence. He carefully places her hands into his, squeezing gently to provide a grounding warmth during the hurricane she currently was going through. "Don't talk, just follow my breath." He murmured, beginning to take deep breaths in and out. The exact same way Kuroo did for him countless time, since they were young children. Kenma falling and sobbing uncontrollably to the point of hyperventilating? Kuroo was there teaching him breathing techniques. When there were too many students in the halls or people watching a game, especially away games at larger schools, Kuroo at his side and helping him calm down. He mentally replayed those, awful memories, praying to whatever being could be listening, that it also could help Filo.

Multiple minutes pass, Tao exiting the locker room. He looks around in growing confusion, turning to Kuroo once he walks out. "Where's Filo at?" They ask, head tilted. Kuroo stops in place, looking around. "She and Kenma were supposed to put up the balls..it shouldnt take them this long." He huffs, beginning to walk across to the supply room. Yamamoto quickly blocks his path, awkwardly looking away. "Wait- wait! Look-" He sighs, staring at Kuroo. "We wanted to tell you! But youre always around Kenma! We...have been coming up with ideas to get them closer. And this was the perfect opportunity! A small enclosed space with just them in!" He explains, offering a smile. Tao immediately stills, upset flashing through their eyes. Yaku rests a hand on Yamamoto's shoulder, looking at Kuroo. "He really likes her and so we figured it could be nice to help get them closer. Like Yamamoto said, we wanted to tell you, and Tao, but you two are always around Kenma and Filo."

Tao flinches, bag and water bottle clattering to the floor beneath him. Their eyes stare at the supply closet, worry and dread filling inside. "You idiots!" He yells, sprinting over and yanking open the door. Filo sat next to Kenma, head on his shoulder. Her breathing was opposite of what he expected. Slow, slightly uneven but more calm than frantic, still matching with Kenma's. He stares up at Tao, eyes flickering, slightly wary. Kuroo appears soon after, exhaling a sigh seeing everything was better than expected. "Oh Filo.." Tao carefully moves to help Kenma stand her up, grabbing the water from her bag and holding it to her lips to hydrate. Kenma swallows, looking up at Kuroo. "Did you do this? Tao?" He murmurs. Kuroo immediately shakes his head. He stares back at the team, all frozen or staring away in heavy guilt. "They did. Thought..it was a good idea to lock you two in here to get you closer." He explains. Kenma's shoulders tense, trying to calm himself to not yell. Kuroo follows behind, picking up Tao and Kenma's bags alongside his own. He stares at the rest of the team, fists curled. "I..cannot express my disappointment in you all. I won't yell, just so it doesn't make it worse for her. This shit happens again? I'm making sure you all either arent apart of this team, or won't play until next year." He announces, turning on his heel and exiting the gym.

Daishou gives his boyfriends kisses, somehow even more unwilling to part today than he usually is, already. It takes several minutes before he manages to take a step back, turning on his heel to run. He'll be late, so very late for classes, Tao and Kuroo know it. "Wonder what that was about", Tao mumbles, and Kuroo can only shrug, equally in the dark. "Maybe the new couple made him feel all lovey-dovey, and he wanted to stay", is all he can come up with as explanation. Tao nods a bit, the idea making sense to them. "Hey, Kuroo?", Kenma says, tugging on his friend's sleeve, "Can you not tell the team yet?" Kuroo blinks, immediatly understanding what Kenma isn't saying. He nods without thinking. "Sure, I can be quiet. 's not my place to tell, anyway." Kenma sighs in relief, a hand on his chest. If the team knows, they'll bombard him with questions. He'd prefer to avoid that so early in the morning. He'd prefer to avoid it all, truth to be told, but Kenma knows that's impossible.

The trip enters the gym mid conversation, shoes scuffing against the flooring. The entire team look over curiously, mainly at Kenma, a few murmurs as they focus back on warm ups. They had another meeting the previous day, brainstorming more ideas. Kuroo noticed the lingered glances and murmurs, brows furrowed before dropping it when Tao pulls him to to change in the locker room. They only take a few minutes to change, coming out to stretch before beginning morning practice.

Everyone stumbles or drags their feet out of the gym, tired and panting. Kuroo was the last out, watching everyone with a furrowed brow. Tao stares at Kuroo, looking at Kenma who is glaring at Kuroo, hair sticking to his head. "You worked us like we're in afternoon practice." They murmur. Kuroo blinks and sighs, wiping his forehead. "It's like everyone had their mind on something else..it pissed me off. It's volleyball time, volleyball thoughts only." Tao sighs, grabbing his hand and kissing the back of it. "Ask them maybe. Gotta get to class, i'll see you later." They say before walking down to the hall he turned down for first period. Kuroo's jaw tics, moving to catch up to Yaku and Kai who went over some volleyball game they were watching the previous afternoon.

The school day goes by normally, a bit slower due to a few exams being taken, for everyone. Some kids left once the last bell rang, excused and eagerly heading home or to a nearby store for snacks, the rest heading to their club rooms. Tao had been late to volleyball practice, passing the photography clubs room, bowing and staring away so Filo (hopefully) didnt see him. They had gotten a nose bleed during last period as everyone was leaving, heading down to the nurse before rushing back to the gym. He'd entered the gym, glancing over as Kuroo still had some kind of itch to push everyone. They quietly changed and stretched in the corner before moving to join on the practice. Everyone was far more quiet as they followed Coach's practice drills, Kuroo murmuring in upset when someone got something just slightly wrong.

Everyone seemed very eager to get out quickly, Kenma mentally fighting the urge to follow them and not wait for his grumpy best friend. They all walk out to find Filo in her spot waiting, smiling up and eagerly joining them. It didn't take long for her to notice the tension, sensing fairly quickly it was directed at Kuroo who radiated it the most. Tao eventually sighed, stepping faster where Kuroo walked infront of everyone.

Tao nearly falls of the couch laughing, holding his stomach. Filo just pouts and drinks her tea, waiting for her brother to calm down again. It takes a full minute, before they wipe their eyes and grin at Filo. She glares at him, grumbling. "Yeah, I feel mighty stupid for that conclusion." "I bet you do. Why her?", Tao asks with a giggle. Their sister shrugs, then sighs deeply. "She was the first girl I could think of that Kenma knew. I mean... he doesn't know... Y'know", she glances down at herself. Obviously, Tao understands right away. They place their hand on hers, squeezing tightly. "You're my sister, no matter what", he reassures her, making sure his voice is steady. Filo smiles at him, grateful, squeezing their hand back. "Anyway... he denied it was Lev's sister. But he had some strong pronounciation on Lev's name, and that clued me in it was someone's sister. And when I asked who's sister it is... he said 'you'. And that confused me so much, because I don't have a sister, I am the sister... and that's when I got it. Him too, he was as red as your tracksuits."

Kuroo blinks, dumbfounded. "You confessed your crush like that?!" Kenma, from under his pillow, can only whine in agreement. Kuroo sighs deeply, running a hand through his hair. If he didn't know it ended in a kiss, Kuroo would call this the biggest fumble of Kenma's life. "Okay... second-hand embarrasment aside, what happened after that fail?", he asks, ripping the pillow from Kenma's face and hands, starring him down. Kenma flushes crimson, chewing his lips. "I... kinda started rambling. About how much I like her. Why I like her. That she's my Power-Up and... yeah, that." He shrugs, voice going quite. "And then... she.. kissed... me" The memory deepens his face color even more, which causes Kuroo to laugh. He puts a hand on Kenma's shoulder, squeezing and shaking a bit. "Good for you, man. I'm really glad, you deserve someone who makes you happy." Kenma only hums in response, the day's events having his brain in overdrive. Kuroo hums, looking out the window. "Well, I better get going. Don't wanna be caught in the rain", he informs Kenma, "See you tomorrow."

"Soooooo...does this mean you two are a couple?" Tao eagerly grins, foot tapping the cold floor. Filo rolls her eyes and smiles, shrugging. "I think so..otherwise i just kissed my brothers boyfriends bestest friend who has a crush on me." She rambles, cheeks flushed as the kiss rewinds in her mind. Tao giggles and moves over to sit next to her, pulling her into a tight hug. "I'm so happy for you, sis. Ive thought for so long if you ever got married, you in a big pretty dress..so happy walking down the aisle..it makes me so giddy! And kenma! That boy loves you so much, i'd get wary if it was anyone else." He hums, pulling away and leaning back on the cushioned backing. Filo sips from her cup, laughing. "You sound like a big brother. I agree though..he is so sweet and actually listens. Can't say that about most men." Filo murmurs, Tao nodding in agreement. "He's a good fit, yknow. I'm so glad everything went well." Tao says softly, resting his head on her shoulder. She pats her brothers shoulder, setting down her cup. "Me too..me too."

The next morning comes fast, birds stirring up noise outside homes as the sun rises above the horizon. Tao gets ready a bit slower than normal, leaving through the door while still eating a piece of toast and rice ball. Filo walks by with an eager pep in her step, the two having a playful debate on the best ice cream flavor. Daishou stands at his usual spot and walks alongside them, already eyeing Filo for some details of last night. She rolls her eyes and smiles, explaining to the listening man who leaned against Tao.

Before he can respond, his phone rings. Daishou scowls at the interruption, but Kuroo frowns even deeper, picking up the call. "Kenma, what's wrong?" Tao is immediatly concearned, Kenma rarely ever calls, preferring to text. Whatever happened to get him to make a phonecall; it can't be anything good. Kuroo's eyebrows shoot up to his hairline. "Oh, uh... Hi, Filo. What's up?" Concearn made room to confusion, Kuroo and Tao sharing a look. The silent question of why Filo called using Kenma's phone. Kuroo's expression morphs into horror. "What do you mean you killed Kenma?!" Daishou chokes next them, blinking bewildered. He expected a lot of things, bt clearly not this. Neither did Tao, whose concearn is back, and a hundred times stronger. Obviously he doesn't believe his sister actually killed Kenma, but... why would she frame it that way? What could she have done?!

Kuroo listens intently, his frown morphing into a smirk. One again, concearn gives way to confusion, Tao and Daishou starring at each other, bewildered. Kuroo snickers. "He's got some sealed gaming figures on his shelf. Just loudly proclaim you'll open one, that should wake him up." He holds his phone away from his ear. Predictably, two seconds later, a scream of "No, don't!", courtesy of Kenma rings out, loud enough for Tao to hear. Kuroo snickers, calling out with "Take care you two!", before hanging up. Before Tao or Daishou can ask what's going on, Kuroo snickers, before erupting in full-on laughter. Hard enough that he holds his stomach, gasping for air between the intense fits. Daishou is the first who finds his voice. "Kuroo? Love, what's going on?" It takes a few seconds before Kuroo is calm enough to answer, still giggling a bit. He puts an arm around Tao, sighing dramatically. "Kenma proves to be dramatic. Filo gave him a kiss, and he passed out. Can you believe that?"

Tao excitedly looks up at him, feet hurriedly tapping like a too happy bunny. "A kiss? A kiss!" Tao claps, hands pressing onto their cheeks. "Thats- thats amazing!!" He moves out of Kuroo's grasp, pacing around the room. "They kissed! That means something had to of been confirmed! What if they confirmed it? Oh my god!" He flaps his arms excitedly. "Imagine them married! Walking down the aisle.." He coos, imagining. Daishou and Kuroo watch with amused looks, Tao bouncing around in a ball of excitement. This happens for a few more minutes before they eventually calm down, sitting on the edge of their bed, still buzzing happily.

"Well, tonight seemed extremely successful, for everyone." Kuroo says, grinning. Daishou nods along with his own smile, bag slung over his shoulder. "Extremely so. Us with homework, Kenma and Filo with a kiss." Kuroo snickers, Tao giggling. They sigh and lean back on their bed, sighing in content. "Man..i'm gonna have to get the details from her once she's home, if she does come home. Ugh I am too excited..." He stands back up, looking at the miffy themed clock over their desk. The sun had long set, most people already inside from work and cleaning up before bed or eating dinner. "You two better get home safe." He smiles, walking ahead to guide them to the front door. Both men follow, Kuroo making sure to take a homemade onigiri from the fridge. Tao stands on the small area of a porch, Daishou and Kuroo shuffling out. They immediately reach out and give Kuroo a big hug, Kuroo taking the chance to place a few kisses over their rarely exposed forehead. They had clipped back Tao's bangs mid study session, the side parts being curled back behind ears. Tao giggled softly, murmuring about how ticklish it was. They pull away before Daishou quickly leans in. He always preferred long warm hugs, especially when parting from one of his boyfriends. "Don't forget to brush your teeth and floss. You had a lot of sugar." He hums into their hair, placing a long kiss to his forehead before pulling away. "Okay?" Tao nods with a warm smile, bowing his head. "Understood, mom." He jokes. Daishou grins and kisses their cheek before reluctantly pulling away. The two wave as they step down to the sidewalk, hand in hand and murmuring to the other. Tao wraps their cozy crocheted cardigan around his body, sitting down on one of the chairs after quickly going in and grabbing a cup of tea.

Kuroo sighs at that, nodding. "Let's hope he slept enough tonight. Imagine your crush comes over, and you fall asleep halfway through. I'd wouldn't be able to look at them for a week." "Good thing you're such a rooster, then", Daishou says, "Me and Tao are at more risk of falling asleep on you, than the other way around." Tao shakes their head, chuckling a bit. His boyfriends always remind him to go to bed early, it's rarely he feels sleepy through the day. Only when they have to drive somewhere for a game, but who could blame him? The drives were always so monotonous and boring! "I won't mind if either of you were to fall asleep on me. It'd be kinda cute", Kuroo says, the soft smile in his lips evidence that he's daydreaming about it already. Daishou chuckles a bit, sporting his own wistful smile. "Oh, to give or receive a lap pillow. Truly a dream." He sighs airly, losing himself in his fantasies. Tao snickers at their boyfriends' expressions, going back to his homework. If that was all they were thinking about doing, Filo wouldn't need to worry about getting scarred upon finding them.

At another place, Kenma is having the best and worst gaming experience of his life. His performance is, for his standards, abyssmal. While he hasn't lost a single game yet, some wins are closer calls than he'd usually have. All of that, because his crush is sitting right next to him. They decided to sit on the ground, so close their arms are brushing against one another every now and then. It proves enough a distraction for Kenma to get distracted, all the time. So much for trying to impress her with his skills... Filo chuckles a bit as their round ends, giving Kenma a soft smile. "Thank you for holding back, Kenma. It's very sweet of you", she says, completely misinterpreting his bad playstyle. He was thankful for it, it was easier to be seen as not wanting to crush her than just being to unfocused to play properly. "Um.. yeah, sure", he says, trying to sound convincing, "'s not very fun if the ground gets wiped with you, after all." Filo laughs at that, nodding and passing Kenma some snacks. She hums, watching him from the corner of her eye, waiting until he's done chewing. "Say, Ken-Ken... ever had a crush before?"

Kenma immediately stills, staring at the television as his mind absolutely races and yells at other thoughts. "A crush?" He swallows, voice smaller. "Uh...i-i dont know..maybe?" He says as his cheeks burn hotter, brain short circuiting. How in the hell was he supposed to calmly go, 'oh yeah ive been in love with you for so long now! i stay up in bed just imagining your face and the idea of just being around you!' ?! He exhales, hands immediately pulling at a thread on the cuff of his hoodie, a small soothing mechanism he'd done since as a child. "i-i..have, yeah.." Is what he commits to, glancing at Filo. She smiles and nods, taking a sip of her soda. "I was thinking about it yesterday. I..dont know if i've ever had a crush on someone, atleast not in the traditional sense?" She starts explaining, eyes shifting to look up a tthe ceiling. "I don't..get sweaty hands and my heart doesnt race." She sighs, shoulders sagging. "I like the idea and prospect of dating someone, it's not like i wouldnt want to be in a relationship. It sounds like a dream." She smiles faintly. Kenma listens intently, eyes lighting up slightly when she mentions liking the idea of a relationship.

He watches her, knees curling up to his chest. "Maybe everyone experiences crushes differently." He murmurs in thought. Filo hums in agreement, looking over. "How do you experience them?" She asks. Kenma stares away, ears burning in a flush. "Uh..kinda like most people, i guess. All the..physical symptoms. It can get a lot sometimes." He murmurs. Filo smiles and nods. "If i can..ask, when was the last time you had one? Like elementary or junior high?" She asks. Kenma tenses, biting his inner cheek. Should he lie? Might be easier to lie, but he hates lying. Especially to friends. Especially to Filo. He hesitates, trying to force the words out. "...High school." He murmurs. Filo's eyes widen and flicker, staring over at him as his cheeks flush a red.

"Text if you need anything. Or text Kuroo and Daishou, they had to deal with the same problems two years ago. I'm sure they'd jump at the opportunity to tutor you~" Filo snickers at the end of her statement, earing a confused look from Tao. He didn't doubt either of them would complain about tutoring him. Heck, they'd be happy and turn it into a cuddly hangout-date-session! But that's nothing to snickers about, as far as they are concearned. Filo rolls her eyes a bit, smirking as she teases her brother. "They'll come up with a new rule~ Every right answer nets a kiss~" Tao squeaks, blushing madly as it hits them. And yet, they can't truly complain about it. They do enjoy kissing Daishou and Kuroo a whole lot, after all. They tug at their hair a little bit, mumbling. "Not a half-bad idea. It's certainly a motivation..." And it was more fun to study in a group than alone, anyway. "Alright then! I'll go ask Kenma if he's up for some games, you ask KurooDai if they are up to a study session", Filo decides with a smile, already fishing for her phone to sent a text.

They each respectively text to see if any of them are free, all getting pretty quick answers. 'Be there in 20 minutes.' Kuroo had texted immediately back in the trios group chat. Daishou followed only a minute after, 'Be there in fifteen!' Pursued by an argument in messages, Kuroo asking how in the world hed get there sooner when Kuroo lived closer. Daishou entertained him, both playfully arguing while probably stumbling out the door in untied shoes. Tao watches with an amused glint in their eyes, looking up when Filo comes out of her room. "Alright! He said yeah! I'll probably be over for a few hours." She says, thinking. She points at Tao, smiling playfully. "Don't let Kuroo near fire, Honestly no one should cook. I fear coming back to a house of rubble." She grins, seeing Tao stiffle a laugh. "And make sure you do the homework. I don't wanna come back after gaming and try and find you and get scarred for life." Tao's cheeks flush, staring at her. "Whats that supposed to mean!" He says in a squeak, Filo merely shrugging shoulders before walking to the front door, slipping on a pair of shoes. Tao walks over and gives her a big hug, smiling. "Be safe, okay? Text me when you get to his place." Filo nods, making sure she brought her phone and wallet. "Itll probably take longer than normal. I'm gonna stop by a convenience store and get me and Kenma snacks." Tao nods eagerly, standing in the doorway and waving bye as Filo leaves down the sidewalk.

Tao sighs with a smile, closing the door and going to his bedroom. They set out all the studying material, a few pieces of blank paper and a few writing utensils. After everything sat in place, including two chairs he dragged in for the guests. He then exits to the kitchen to start some matcha, something to aid in the lesson material. It doesn't take long for a heavy knock to ring out from the front door. Tao looks over and beams, jogging to the door and opening it. They still and blink, staring at their boyfriends who rest their hands on knees, panting. Daishou grins through heavy breathing, standing to his full height. "I won! I got here first." Kuroo huffs below him before rising. "Cheater tripped me. I was so much further infront." Daishou only shrugs, an eased grin on his face. "Now when your wonderful boyfriends want snacks, you are the one that's gonna have to go get them." The two throw a few more jabs at the other, reflecting that old rivalry they shared. Tao rolled their eyes with a content sigh, opening the door further. "Come in, ive got matcha that just got done. Everything's set up in my room." And with that, the studying session began.

It was Tao's turn to blink in confusion now, starring at their sister as if she grew a second head. It didn't go unnoticed by Filo, who quickly started to explain. "I thought I had crushes in middle school, but I wasn't really sure. My friends talked about theirs, and they kept saying stuff how their hearts were beating really fast, or how their stomachs felt like doing flips, and that they were blushing and grinning and had sweaty palms and all that." She shrugs, suddenly looking forlorn. It startles Tao, failing to come up with a memory of Filo ever looking like this. "I... never had that. I googled it, and almost all the people describe crushes like that. A rare few says it feels the exact opposite. You're calm, at peace, as long as they're around. But that's how I feel when my friends are around, too. Like all is okay and will be okay. But I don't like the idea of kissing, like, Sanrio, or Lev, or so..." She shrugs again, sighing, "Maybe I'm one of those people who love the idea of love... but can't fall in love themselves."

Tao hums quietly, carefully reaching out to their sister, putting a hand on her arm. "Maybe... but, that'd be okay-" "No it wouldn't be!", Filo interrupts, getting up, pacing her room. Tears are welling in her eyes as she tugs at her shirt's sleeves. "I don't... I don't wanna be like that. No hate to anyone on that spectrum, but I don't want to be one of them. I want to be someone's person. I want someone to be my person. I want someone's hand to hold in public, someone to cuddle up to at night, someone who's there, in good and bad..." Tao is up on their feet in an instant, crossing the distance between them in two quick steps, pulling his sister into a tight hug. Filo stiffens for a moment, before her mind catches up, her arms wrapping around her sibling. She hadn't even noticed how much she had worked herself up, tears stinging in her eyes. Tao pats her head, trying to find the right words. "Maybe... maybe you're one of those people who need to be really close to someone, before you could imagine being with them. Or maybe... you just haven't met the right one yet. 'Highschool-Sweethearts' is a thing, yeah... but there are a bunch of people who met their partner later. It's not like you have a deadline."

Tao prays to everyhigher being that their words are helping. It pains them to see their sister in such distress, especially with a topic that is supposed to bring joy and positive feelings. His prayers are answered when Filo squeezes them a bit, nodding at their shoulder. "You're right", she mumbles quietly, "'s not like I need to find Mr. or Mrs. Right in Highschool. Guess those corny american movies and shows really messed with my head..." Tao breathes a sigh of relief when Filo steps back, wiping her eyes, smile back on her face. "Thank you", she says quietly, smiling at her brother gratefully. Tao smiles back, nodding. "No problem. You'd do the same for me. Heck, you did the same for me when I was freaking out over Daishou and Kuroo. 's not like I can leave you high and dry." Both siblings laugh at the memories, the tense moment broken. Filo sits back down on her chair, Tao on her bed. "I think...", Filo starts, looking out the window, "I could imagine doing the dating stuff with Kenma. He's a great guy. We've got a rythm... and he already knows how I am... still cares for me."

Tao stills, watching her silently. Inside? He's doing flips, imagining Kenma and Filo, in the sweetest gentlest little love. Tao looks out at the window at well, trying to hide that excitment. "I could honestly see it too." They smile, "You two have good chemistry, even just as friends. You both love being around each other, know what the other likes and doesn't, all of it." Tao says, legs kicking in thought. "Even if you need time to think on it...you should maybe ask him. Worse that can happen as that he says no." Oh he'd never say no, Tao thinks. But can't necessarily speak that. He wanted to mention the blonde's huge crush on her, but felt uncomfortable with the opening to disclose the information. It wasn't his crush, it wasn't his place to tell her. It was Kenma's, and he didn't want to ruin that moment for him. Tao leans back on her bed again, continuing. "Plus, it could be a thing where you just maybe don't get crushes but still would like dating. I'm sure its happened before. I mean, Kenma for example. You've known him awhile. You know a lot about him. Maybe you liking the idea of dating him could be your form of a crush." Tao giggles softly, "A Filo crush, maybe." Filo looks over and lets out a small laugh herself, thinking. Tao gets back up and hugs her. "Do what you think is in your best interest, I'll always support and cheer you on." They squeeze gently before pulling away, walking to the doorway and stopping to look back. They smile and point to the living room. "I'm gonna watch some movies, if you want to come. Still got some snacks and sweet drinks to eat." He says before grabbing all of the needed items and setting them up in a visually appealing way on the coffee table. They lay out a few fluffy large blankets and pillows, setting the lights to a warm homey dim. Tao settles in their usual spot, looking up when Filo steps into the living room and settles on the couch, eyes lighting up as she looks at the arrray of snacks. Two movie nights a week surely wouldn't hurt. Tao handed over the remote for Filo to choose, leaning forward to grab a homemade onigiri, taking a small bite.