A/N - The long awaited chapter 25 is finally up! So sorry for taking so long. I run into some problem in the plot and it took me a while to fix it but here it is now! Tons of feels and some KiKuro moments in this chapter. Enjoy reading! Also, 4 more chapters to go! Are you ready for the end of a story? 

Please don't forget to review and vote! It means a lot! 

____________________________________

Previous on Chapter 24

"As… long… as… I'm still… alive, I … won't …give… up on …my body. I'll …keep… mo…ving… even… if it…ta…kes… every… ounce… ofmy… str…ength. I… still… want… to… live… my… life." 

"A defective piece's no longer useable for me, dispose both of them."

'I wish you're here…Sei'

"He's a wanted assassin in America." 

 "Doctor Midorima, no matter how much she's funding for us, there is nothing we can do. Now, if you will excuse us." 

"Haizaki-san, you're a very kind man. I'm glad that we're friends."

"My condolence, Haizaki Shogo."

______________________________

A year and 10 months ago,

He was preparing for dinner when he heard the doorbell of his apartment rang. He sighed as he turns off the fire and puts down his ladle aside. Leaving his pot of curry, he made a beeline towards the front door. On his way, he passed by his living room, his forehead creased at the time on the clock. He sighed as he puts on his slippers.

‘I told them I would go downtown first thing in the morning.”

He grabs a hold of the doorknob and opens it, “It’s a bit late for a visit, why don’t you—“ his black orbs falls onto a familiar spiky crimson haired with hetero orbs who was looking a little bit disheveled.

There, stood the vocalist of Generation of Miracles, Akashi Seijuro. He was carrying a bag pack on his shoulder and his guitar bag. For him to dress up so casually while outside his apartment was odd. He bowed his head a little, “Reo. Good evening.” He straightened his back up.

The taller vocalist blinks, “Sei-chan? Why are you here?” he saw traces of exhaustion on the other vocalist face. He doesn’t usually look so exhausted and untidy like he was then. He knows Akashi often puts up a very professional look at all time and to come over to someone else’s home at this late hour has made it even more confusing.

‘He looks like a lost puppy…’

“Can I stay over for tonight?” There were so many questions that Reo wanted to ask, but he figures he should ask him later when he settles down. He moves to the side as he lets Akashi into his apartment before he closed the door. The curry he was cooking earlier was left to cold as he brought a cup of coffee for his old friend.

They chatted a little while before Reo invited him to have dinner together. Being friends since middle school brought back memories where the taller man often brought homemade bento for him. All because he thinks, Akashi’s a little skinny. After dinner, Reo showed him to the guest room. He never had a guest staying over so the room was hardly used.

The younger man seems to be in a daze every time he left him alone, as if there’s a lot in his mind but Reo leave him be until he’s ready to let it out. He knew Akashi has a lot going on and he knows there’s time the younger man would just lost in his thoughts completely without noticing someone saw him.

…

“Reo, can I have a word with you?” It was later in the morning before Akashi left for work he entrust him to something. He blinks as he looked at the ruby colored box. It wasn’t made of wood but a bit on the glass side, “A box…?” he shifts his gaze to Akashi who nods.

“It contains something very important inside and I entrust you to hold on to it until the time comes.”

Reo frowned, “Time? What time?” he noticed his knuckles tightens on his jeans. It must be very important for Akashi to entrust him with this box. After moments of silent, Akashi looked at him.

“You’ll know when it comes.”

One year and 10 months later,

“Let see, where I put it…”he mumbles as he searched through the cabinets, “I know I put it here when he brought it here…” he frowned. The whole apartment was a mess. He spent entire morning searching the place for that one box, his old friend entrust to him.

On the flat screen TV, the news was broadcasting a certain band, announcing their next concert and PVs.

It has been over a year since he received the box and he has forgotten where he hid it, “Stupid me, why the hell did I hid it? Sei-chan’s definitely going to have my head when I’m dead.” He furrowed, “No, I’m already as good as dead if I lost the box.”

He continued mumbling until; he put aside several large boxes. His eyes widen the moment he saw the said box hidden behind the other boxes. The glass ruby box. It was not too big or too small, just the right size to put important things in it. He looked at the box. His orbs sadden, “It’s time isn’t it, Sei-chan…?” he gets up from the floor and went to the living room as he grabbing his car keys and phone before leaving the apartment.

----

Kuroko could never get use to stay in the hospital. She dislikes the smell of the medicines in the air. She didn’t like the white sheets on the bed. She didn't like the quiet murmurs among the nurses down the hall. She didn't like the large room she’s staying in. It made her felt small and alone. She shifts uncomfortably on the bed, with much effort she brought herself up.

Her sapphire orbs falls onto the white roses the silver haired man brought for her three days ago. Her brother, Hibiki brought a beautiful vase for the roses and puts them near the windows opposite her bed. A small smile crept onto her face. The night shine from the moon gave the roses a magical effect underneath its shine.

Haizaki promised to return to visit her next day but he never showed up after that day. She was a bit worried for her friend since he was acting odd after he abruptly stopped in the middle of his sentence in the garden. He was on his guard with his cold silver orbs often travels around to each person and corner he passed by. He only left after the two nurses in charge of her came around to accompany her to the rehabilitation center. Other than his odd behavior, he was acting like himself. His silently smiled at the joke she made or at something, she said.

.

.

The two of them laughed at the joke Haizaki made after they return to her room. The cold man does not seem to care how her condition was. He was more focus on seeing her. He then searched something in his jacket pockets, “There it is. Here, it’s for you.” He grabs her hands and puts something on her palm.

“A dolphin keychain, I’ve been meaning to give it to you after the day I met you at the beach but … something important came up.” He rested his chin on his knuckles as his orbs watched the bluenette sapphire’s widens considerably before those soft pink shades sprawled across her cheeks.

The small blue dolphin keychain lies on her palm, and then she looked at him as she smiled, “Thank…you…Hai…za…ki…san…its ado…rable…” the silver haired man smiled, “I’m glad you like it.” It was one of those smiles where she doesn't see very often from him.

“Hai…za…ki…san…you…should…smile…more…it…suits…you…well.”

The said man blinks a couple times. He chuckled as he ruffles with her hair gently with his cold hands, “It does? Then perhaps I should smile a little more.” He grins at her. His cold silvery orbs soften warmly. He smiled at her. It was a smile that she only sees when he is around her. His cold expressions often made her thought that he was still going through a lot.

.

.

She furrowed slightly when she noticed one of the rose’s petals has fallen, ‘I hope he’s doing alright…’

---

The sound of the heart monitor beeps lightly in the room. At the corner of the room, where the bed is, lays a man in his twenties with an oxygen mask covering half of his face as he breathes shallowly into the mask. At his side, stood the forest green haired doctor inspecting the wounds his patient suffered.

“The bleedings finally stopped. Mild fever, nothing too dangerous but he is not allowed to move around until his wounds healed properly else he’ll just reopen the stitches I did.” He shifts his gaze to the detective who sat nearby. He furrowed slightly at the sight of the twin guns in the younger man holster. Himuro straightened his back as he sat up and walk towards the bed, “When will he regain his consciousness?”

“The anesthetic I put in him should be wearing off soon but bear in mind, he will be a little off when he wakes up, so don’t expect too much of a reaction.” He shifts his gaze to his watched as he frowned. He sighed, “Well, if you will excuse me. I need to attend to my shifts in the hospital. Call me if there’s an emergency.” He puts back the health chart on the nightstand next to the bed before leaving the room.

The raven-haired detective walked him out, “Thanks, Midorima.”  The older man eyed the detective before putting on his shoes, “Just don’t wreck the place again. God knows I had enough cleaning up the place after you two barbaric baboons brawled and keep those out of sight!” he glares at the detective, motioning to the twin guns.

Himuro sweats dropped at the doctor death glares, “Yeah, don’t worry about these. They’re for precaution.” He scratched the back of his head.

Midorima sighed, “Whatever. Just keep them out of sight.” He shuts the door close as Himuro could hear the sound of the lock. Himuro stopped scratching the back of his head as his smile replaced by a cold one, “Now then, to wait.” He shifts his guns in the holster as he made his way towards the room where the patient is. He stood still at the door as his black orbs watched the silver haired patient breathes shallowly into the mask.

.

.

“Hey, get a hold of yourself! Stay awake!” he tries to keep the half-conscious assassin awake but the man was slipping away each second wasted. The wounds on his body were so severe that Himuro doubted he could make it, ‘Come on, where the hell are you?!’ he cringed as he tries to stop the bleeding on the man abdomen. On cue, the metal door to the top slammed open as he hears someone hurried towards them.

The detective furrowed as he motioned the arrival of the doctor, “FINALLY! HURRY! HE’S SLIPPING AWAY!” He could see those frowns as Midorima crouched down and start checking for pulse as he grabbed something from his bag, “WHY THE HELL DIDN’T YOU CALL  FOR THE AMBULANCE?!” he grumbles as he starts working on the wounds.

“Because I can’t, he’s a wanted man and I have questions that I needed to ask before I hand him in to the police.” He grabs the gun that was laying on the ground, “For Tsuki-chan’s sake.” His black orbs sharpen at the sight of the gun.

“What does Kuroko has to do with all these?” Midorima continues to work on the unconscious man, “He’s the one who saved her from drowning back then.” The doctor frowned. He knows about the incident, since Kagami sent Kuroko for a checkup right after they return to Tokyo. 

He grabs another clean white cloth from his bag, “We need to get him to the hospital, and I don’t have the proper equipments to fix these wounds.” Never in his life, has he wanted to hit someone for being stubborn, “Is there somewhere we can bring him, not the hospital, please?”

“Are you out of your mind, there’s nowhere we can bring him other than the hospital!” he pressed the cloth onto the wounds as it seeped through the white cotton in a blink of an eye, “If we bring him to the hospital, the police would apprehend him immediately. Until I get the answers I want, I can’t let him fall into the enforcements hands”

He puts away the stained cloth and pressed a new ones onto the wounds, “So, you think this man has the answer to it or perhaps he’s the one who’s targeting Kuroko.” Himuro seethe the gun into the back of his jeans, “I don’t know…, but I have the feeling that if we don’t save him, Kuroko would be in danger and we won’t have any answer to make our move.” He bit his lower lip. He hates the feeling when his guts telling him that his friends are in danger. 

Midorima eyed him for a while, “I need you to help me carry this man, and we’ll head to my place.” He puts his equipments back into the bag as he motioned the detective to help him.

.

.

Himuro sighed, and then he looked at his watch. Shoulder fell slightly, “I guess I’ll call Maria.” He closes the door and as he grabs his phone. Tatsuya hummed a tune as he waits for his fiancée to pick the call up, “Good morning, Maria.” a smile immediately sprawled across his lips the moment he heard her voice. 

…

His eyelids slowly flutters open as his face scrunched up at the pain on his chest. His silver orbs were glaze with exhaustion and the drugs he’s under. He could barely summon any ounce of his strength as he fell back onto the bed. His eyes travel around the unknown semi dark room. The curtains were draw, blocking the bright light of the sunshine from entering the room.

His body hurts, his head hurts. Everything spins within his sight. Slowly, he closes his eyes before the sound of the monitor lulls him to sleep.

----

Midorima was making his rounds on his patients with his eyes glued on the health reports in his hands.  As he was about to turn at the corner, he walked into someone, “Kuroko-chan, I’m so sorry. Are you alright?” he quickly grabbed the book on the floor. His patient who was on the wheelchair watched the doctor flustering as he grabs the book and the folders on the floor. As he straightened his back up, he puts the book back onto her lap as she blinks.

“Doc…tor…are…you…alri…ght…you…looked...tired.”

The doctor chuckles, “I’m alright. Don’t you worry yourself about me.” He smiled, then he looks around then back to the bluenette in front of him, “Where are you heading? Isn’t Maria-san supposed to be with you?” he remembers what the detective said to him about his patient being a kill target. She shook her head, “She’s…talk…ing…to…Tat…su…ya…san…I…figu…red…I…shouldn’t…dist…urb…her…” His mood soured a little at his patient conditions, her speeches’ deteriorating even worse than before.

He crouched down, “I’ll get a nurse to accompany you.” He signaled a nurse nearby as she hurried towards the doctor. He ruffles with her soft blue locks, “Well, I’ll see you later, Kuroko-chan.” He watched the bluenette being cart away by the nurse.

Along the way in his rounds, he stopped by the washroom. He frowned at the sight of those dark eye bags underneath his eyes and his pale skin color. He filled both of his palms with water as he splashed them into his face. Then he looked into the mirror.

…

“There is no hope for her.”

…

“DAMN IT!” he slammed his fist onto the marble sink. Not only he has been working himself to the bone to find the cure but his opinions and research completely been shut down by the higher ups. Since the conference, he hasn’t been able to get proper sleep. It has gotten worst when the detective calls him up to save a wanted fugitive. He stayed up for two days with only two hours of sleep on each when the patient fever peaked up due to the severe wounds.

He sighed, ‘If anyone found out I’m sheltering a wanted man, I’m done for it.’ He looked at the mirror once again. His exhausted self reflects all the hard work he has been doing, “I really should get some rest today.” He lets out a heavy sigh before he left the washroom.

---

It was Kagami’s day off along with the rest of remaining Generation of Miracles. Kagami spent the day in the hospital with his beloved sister while Hibiki sent his regards since the EUTERPE was making their tour in America for their latest album release. While Himuro and his fiancee had some errands to do, they did not let him in what it was but he noticed Himuro has been busy as of lately. He often disappears into somewhere.

His orbs bore holes into his phone. To be exact onto the calendar, ‘Less than three months left…huh…’ he has lost count of how long he has been staring at the date and time while waiting for the rehabilitation session done.

“Alright, Tsuki-chan, that’s all for today.” Takao announced as his assistant quickly helped the young patient up from the floor. Kagami broke contact with his phone as he quickly stuffed it into his pocket, and then made his way to his sister who was on the wheelchair. He smiled, “Good work, Tetsu.”

She returned his smile then her sapphire orbs wanders to his pocket where she could see half of his phone stuck out. Kagami followed her line of sight, “What’s wrong?” when he shifts his gaze back to her. She looked at him, “Tai…ga…why…did…you…stared…at…your…phone…ear…lier…?”

His jaw tightens then he forced a smile, “it’s nothing. Just reading some texts, that president sent. It’s all work stuffs, nothing important.” He quickly went to the back of the wheelchair. Takao who was watching the two siblings interaction can only stood watch from the corner of his eyes. He knows Kagami has been worried sick about the bluenette. He even noticed the bassist looked a little paler than he used to be and he has gone thinner. Midorima seems to be getting several calls from a certain Rakuzan Agency president in regards of the red head bassist to do a check up on him.

As for Midorima…he has been going home earlier than usual ever since four days ago. He often caught the doctor snoozing away on his seat in his office when he’s on his break during lunch. If it weren’t for Takao who often grab a set of lunch at the cafeteria for him, the forest green haired doctor would have been starving to death all day long but it worries Takao. Midorima has been pushing himself far too much after the conference. He can only hope his old friend would not collapse for exhaustion.

---

Silvery orbs travel the quiet room then to the window where the sky was dark. He winced in pain as he tries to get up. He looked at his abdomen and frowned at the sight of heavily bandaged wounds on his chest where the bullet pierced through while on the abdomen where the hand knife cuts through in the brawl he had with Hanamiya Makoto, who is also a hired assassin to dispose the bluenette.

He looked around the room, “Green is so not my color...” he drags his legs down from the bed.

“Tell that to the doctor.” A voice broke his thoughts. Haizaki shifts his gaze to the source of the voice. His mood soured even more when he noticed the detective that has been hunting him down past few years standing right at the door with a tray of foods. Himuro sharply looked at the assassin.

He sighed as he walks towards the patient and puts down the tray on the table, “I’m not here to arrest you just yet. I have some questions to ask you, but eat first before the foods gets cold. The doctor has a habit of talking to himself when he sees someone wasting what he cooks.” He sat on the chair nearby.

“I’ll answer any question you have but you will answer whatever question I have. Deal?” He motioned to the tray near Haizaki. The silver head glares at him before starting to munch down the dinner.

“Who is Kuroko Tetsuki to you?” the spoon stopped abruptly at that question. Haizaki frowned before continuing what he was about to do, “She’s a friend. A good one at that.” Himuro watched those silvery orbs soften for a second before coldness replaced them.

“I heard you saved her. Why were you there in the first place and why did you approach her of all people.” That question received a cold glare from the assassin. Himuro didn’t flinched a bit, instead he knows he hits the right question set. Haizaki lets out a ‘hmmph’ before continuing his meal, “It was all a coincidence. I was there for a break and everything that happened was a mere coincident. I’m not that heartless.”

Himuro scoffed, “Such contradicting answer to what you’re doing for a living.” Haizaki ignored him. Seeing the assassin weren’t being so cooperative, Himuro decided the next one is the last one, “Akashi Seijuro. The name rings any bell?” He saw the other man froze abruptly for a second before he acts normally, “No.” The detective frowned as he gets up.

“Well, I guess we’re done for today. You’re not being cooperative. And here I was thinking I could get some answers out of you.” The raven-haired man walks towards the door, “The doctor has you to bed confinement until the stitches he did on you, completely healed. So, don’t start thinking you could escape from here.” He pointed the man other wrist, which was handcuffed to the sidebars of the bed.

“Question.” The detective halted as he looks at the assassin over his shoulder. “Why did you saved me? You could have let me rot there to death.” Himuro sighed, “If I do that, Tsuki-chan won’t be happy but right now, whether you’re the one who killed Akashi or not, is not important. I’m trying to save her life and as we speak, anything could happen to her with whoever that attacked you.”

Himuro turns his gaze back to his front, “She’s important to us and everyone else.” He closed the door, leaving Haizaki to his own. His silvery orbs looks at the plate.

“She’s important to me too, so that’s why I …”

_____

“Con…cert…?” she cooed. Hibiki removed the blanket covering her lower part as he helped her lowering her legs down the bed. "Mhmm, the concert is in three weeks and we want you to be there, Tsuki-chan." Hibiki smiled while Mayuzumi helped Kagami to get the wheelchair fixed up.

It was in the morning when the three of them came over to visit her. Another day off, they said. With the doctor permission, they brought Kuroko out for a ride and breakfast. It has been a while after all, since the bluenette left the hospital ground. They brought her to places where there are fewer crowds.

“Milkshakes are not healthy!”Kagami being the overprotective brother, insisted she should not take cold drinks while Hibiki insisted that she should have her favorite drink, vanilla milkshake, as for Mayuzumi, he only sat and watches the two idiots in front of him squabbling about it while he puts the strawberry from his cake to the bluenette plate.

“Watching the two of them made me wonder if they’re truly your brothers.” The grey haired bassist mumbles as he drinks his coffee. Kuroko giggles, “They’re…really…good…fri…ends…” she smiled. Mayuzumi snorted, “If you ask me, they’re like those annoying brats.” The bluenette laughs then she shift her gaze to the two of them. It was a good day for her. She enjoyed the outing so much that she hesitated to return to the hospital.

Hibiki puts the paper bags into the backseat, “Oh, right. Tsuki-chan. Nijimura-san wants to see you.” He grabs his phone out of his pocket. Kagami shifts his gaze to the bluenette, while Mayuzumi remained silent as he furrowed at the steering wheel while waiting for the other two to enter the car. Kuroko noticed everyone acted odd after what her dear brother had just said. She saw traces of worried on all those three faces.

“Tai…ga…what’s…wrong…?” she pulls his sleeves slightly. Kagami looked at her; she couldn’t read the emotions in his orbs as he forced a smile, “It’s nothing. Nijimura-san has been busy and he couldn’t fit any time into his schedule to drop by to the hospital, so he requested that we bring you to him.” The two musicians in front of them kept silent. They could not bring themselves to say anything else. Kuroko didn’t asked further until they reached the agency. They were lucky that the young raven-haired president was still around.

When they reached the agency, Kuroko received many stares from the staffs around. She shifts uncomfortably in her seat as Kagami wheeled her into the elevator. Kagami and Hibiki exchanged looks as they knew their sister felt uncomfortable under the gaze of others when she’s like this. Just months ago, she was able to sing and walk but now… she is…

*Knock, Knock*

“Come in.”

Mayuzumi opens the door as Nijimura shifts his gaze from the documents in his hands to his guests. He smiled as he gets up, “Kuroko-chan, it’s been a while!” he approached the bluenette as he crouched down, “I’m sorry I wasn’t able to visit you. Things have been so hectic and busy for the agency, I haven’t been able to go anywhere.” He ruffles with her soft locks gently as his expression softened, “Have you been well?” the bluenette nodded.

“It’s…good…to…see…you…again…Ni…ji…mura…san” she bowed slightly. He chuckles while the other three men watched them from the side. “I…was…told…you…wan…ted…to…see…me…” his smile fell as his black orbs looks right at her. He held her small hands into his, firmly. ”About that…there’s someone I want you to meet first.” He straightened his back as someone enters the office on cue.

“Kuroko-chan, I would like you to meet Reo Mibuchi.” A tall, slender man with shoulder length black hair smiled at her. “Kuroko-chan, it’s nice to have finally met you in person. Sei-chan spoke a lot about you.” The bluenette could only blink and wonder.

…

“You see, I was sent by Sei-chan.” He sipped the coffee, “He entrust me with something very important to him.” He grabs something from his bag. Then, puts it onto her lap. A ruby colored glass box. “This is what he entrust me to.”

She looked at the box. The color reminds her of Akashi’s hair color and eyes. A color that was so beautiful but also the color of the blood that traumatized her on her first debut night. She could feel carving of Akashi insignia on the side box, “It’s…beau…tiful…what’s…in…it?” she looked at Reo. She saw those exchanging looks before focusing on her again.

“That’s for you to find out.” He smiled. Slowly, she opens the box. Her sapphires widen. Inside the box contains letters, three diaries, and music sheets. She opens one of the letters. Her breathe hitched as her tears began to pool. Her hands shook.

My Beloved Tetsuki,

By the time you read this letter, I am probably no longer around. I have entrusted Reo, my old friend to deliver this box to you when the time comes. I am guessing, he thinks this is the right time to deliver you this.

In this box, I have hid the sheets music we once wrote together when we were kids. I found them in the library we used to be in back in the days. Since then, I hold on to them until I found you. They’re the songs that gave me colors in my life. Every time I’m down, I would always look at them and remind myself that, you are out there, somewhere, waiting for me to find you and I did. However, it was too late…

The music sheets have stayed hidden in the box for a very long time and I believe they deserve someone to bring them to life. I know someone who can and will bring them to life. That is you, Tetsuki. Only you can. With the help of everyone else in the Generation of Miracles and Nijimura-san. I am sure you can do it.

After all, you have given me the chance to see much more wonderful side of music and I will treasure it for eternity. This is my last gift to you, my love.

Yours Truly,

Akashi Seijuro.

The others remained silent as they watched the bluenette opens another letter. They could see her hands trembling as she opens it. Her sapphires were fill with sadness as she tries to hold them back. They know they couldn’t do nothing but to watch and wait.

My Beloved Tetsuki…

How have you been? I hope you are doing all right. Smiling and living your life the way you wanted it to be. Please don’t cry when you are reading this. I would not be able to take it to see your tears falling from your soft cheeks. I’m sorry I wasn't able to be there for you when you needed me but please remember I’ll always be watching you from somewhere.

I know you are strong. Much stronger than I am. This is why I fell in love with you all over again. Stay strong, my love. Never forget that you’re not alone.

Yours Truly,

Akashi Seijuro.

*I missed you so much.

Droplet of tears fell onto the snow-white letter. Tears after tears. Drop after drop as she held the letters closer to her chest. She cried. The last line of the letter broke her. She knew she has moved on but she also knew she hasn’t accepted his death completely.

‘I missed you, Sei…too much…’

Kagami hugged her gently in his arms as she cries into his chest. Part of him wants to take her away from the box and make her forget it ever existed, while another part of him wants him to stay and support her with everything he has.

----

They finally return to the hospital. Kuroko was already sound asleep when they reached there. Midorima was already waiting at the hospital doorstep for their arrival. He gave them a death glare when they reached the hospital two hours passed her curfew but when he saw the bluenette in Kagami’s arms, he dismissed the subject. The day has been long for her.

“I won’t pry any further. Right now, rest is a priority for her.” He closes the door to her room. The three men were silent. “Thanks, doc. See ya tomorrow. Good night.” Kagami bowed before follow suit the other two. It has been a very long day for them too.

-----

“Do you think she’ll be okay with all these? I mean after all Akashi did entrust her with the songs and all…” Hibiki mumbles as he stares outside the car. The breeze felt good against his skin. The night was dark and there were fewer cars on the road. Mayuzumi focused on driving instead of getting into the conversation. As for Kagami, he was lost in his thoughts.

“I don’t know…it was originally for both of them…not us…” he trails off. He doesn’t know what to think anymore.

.

.

All eyes on the vocalist of a band named REIGN, Mibuchi Reo. According to Nijimura, the band is another band belongs to the agency. It is not as popular as the GoM but it is one of the top bands in the market. He is also the “senpai’ of the Generation of Miracles back in middle school.

“Sei-chan came over to my place over a year ago. He wasn’t himself that evening. He was disheveled. Wait no, he look like a lost puppy. He didn’t spoke much of what happened before he came over. To be exact, he wasn’t there at all, only his body was. I figured I should leave him to his own until he’s ready.” He puts the coffee cup down. He sighed.

Kuroko listened to him carefully. On her lap, she holds the ruby box. The contents of it have been reveal. There are several pieces of letters, two diaries, and more than eight original masterpiece songs hidden inside it. All belong to Akashi Seijuro.

[This part below will be flashback in a flashback]

“Reo, can I have a word with you?” It was later in the morning before Akashi left for work he entrust him to something. He blinks as he looked at the ruby colored box. It wasn’t made of wood but a bit on the glass side, “A box…?” he shifts his gaze to Akashi who nods.

“It contains something very important inside and I entrust you to hold on to it until the time comes.”

Reo frowned, “Time? What time?” he noticed his knuckles tightens on his jeans. It must be very important for Akashi to entrust him with this box. After moments of silent, Akashi looked at him.

“You’ll know when it comes.” It confuses him even more. How will he knows when its time. He sighed, “What should I do with this when the time comes?” he asked the other as he puts the box on the table. Akashi shifts his gaze to the box then to the taller man, “You will delivery this to Kuroko Tetsuki. I’m sure you have heard of her.”

“Who hasn’t? She was all over the news after what happened in the Music Festival of your university the other day. I didn’t expect HEAVEN to be such a pretty girl and talented too but why did she keep herself hidden for so long? They even said that, she’s a cheats in her ranking for the evening concert.”

The crimson haired vocalist bit his lower lip, “She has her reason…what happened in the festival was partly because of me. If I didn’t approach her to assist her in her performance, this wouldn’t have happened. She doesn’t deserve this at all.” his knuckles on his jeans turn white as regrets and frustrations on his usual calm face.

‘I guess this is why he came to my place. Luka must have been a pain in the ass again.’ Reo thought.

After giving it a thought, “Well, I don’t mind becoming a delivery boy for you. After all, you’ve already helped with the band so much back then. So, it’s time for me to help you.” He hummed as he rubbed his chin, “I really look forward to seeing this Kuroko Tetsuki. She seems very important to you, nee, Sei-chan.” He smiled causing the other to blush at his tease. He grins, “The great Akashi Seijuro-chan is blushing over a girl’s name. Now that I gotta tell everyone!” he took out his phone and began to take pictures of the vocalist. Which to his demised, his phone was crushed minutes later.

Akashi sighed, “You’re already reaching thirty, for heaven sake. Anyway thank you. I appreciate it a lot. I really do.” He turns around.

“She’s too  important for me to lose.”

….

It was over nearly a year later when Akashi were shot right in the middle of a stage performance in HEAVEN’s debut. It was shown on the live broadcast when it happened. Reo was in the United Kingdom when it happened and it was beyond his expectations for it to happen. It was then he knew, the time that Akashi mentioned to him a year ago, finally arrived.

[Flashback ends. Continues to the present flashback]

“It was only after he said that, I know you’re very important to him. More than anything else he ever have.” He shifts forward on his seat then turns to Kuroko who was holding the box dearly to her. He puts one of his hands on hers, “Kuroko-chan, I’m sorry for your lost but I hope you will stay the way you are. Just like what Sei-chan wants. He wants you to be happy and I’ll do anything I can to make sure his last wishes for you, comes true.” He smiled, “Isn’t that right, everyone?”

Everyone in the office nods. 

---

The land cruiser stops at a traffic light. Kagami shifts his gaze to the sky; ‘Such empty sky…’ then he shut close his eyes. Feeling tired, ‘I’m exhausted…’ with that he drift off to sleep.

Mayuzumi looks at the rear mirror and noticed Kagami fell asleep as he lean against the passenger door. He pressed onto the main lock to his side as it automatically locks all the doors. Then, he eyed Hibiki who was drifting in his own thoughts.  Then he focused on the road.

‘Guess I gotta hurry it up and send the two of them home.’ He thought as he speed the car up

.

.

Kuroko has been looking at the music sheets that Akashi has left for her. Everyone was waiting for her decision. They know they must wait but they also know that Kuroko doesn’t have much time left. She must make her decision there.

“…I …wil…l… pass… these… songs…s… to… both… of …the…band... They… de…serve… these… the… most…” She smiled. Kagami and Hibiki frowned as both stood up looking at her, “You can’t do this, Tsuki-chan. They’re yours. We can’t possibl-“he was cut off by that look on his beloved sister face. He bit his lower lip as his knuckles tightens, “We can’t say no, can we?”

The bluenette shook her head, “Go…men…nee…Hibi…ni…sa…ma…” Hibiki looked away as he sat down. Kagami couldn’t find his word after looking at her hopeful expression. He took a deep breath, “Tetsu, you sure you wanna do this…?” she nodded once again. He closes his eyes for a few second then opens them, “Alright.” He sat down.

Only then, she looked at him. Mayuzumi noticed those sapphires wanting to ask him a question. Dismissingly he waves his hands in the air, “There’s no need for you to ask me. I’ll always support whatever decision you’re making. If you truly want this, we will give our best so we won’t fail you.” He smirked. His blank grey orbs softens when he saw that surprise look. She smiled, “Thank…you…Mayu…zumi…san…”

He nodded, “Anytime, Chibi.”

.

.

And that’s how the decision were made. Both Generation of Miracles and EUTERPE will be taking part in joint album. This was immediately approved by both agencies president. By the time the meeting ends, it was already passed dinnertime and Kuroko’s curfew. After a few words exchanged, they were on their way to send Kuroko back to the hospital.

Of course, not only Kagami and everyone else feeling exhausted but he’s also exhausted. With Hibiki constantly drags him to visit his sister, he couldn’t get some rest until later at night. Not that he’s complaining. In fact, he was fine with it. Seeing her smile makes him happy.

----

“Nee, Shin-chan. I think you should stop drinking. You got a shift in the morning.” Takao picks up the empty can of beers on his floor and table. Midorima was leaning against the couch as he looks up at the ceiling. The ceiling looked blurry to him without his glasses on. His white dress shirt were unchecked while his collars were left unbutton down to his well-toned chest. His hair was in a mess. Shade of red sprawled across his cheeks as he took another sip of his beer.

“We can’t do anything but watch her dying away…huh…” he mumbles. His partner frowned. Takao straightened his back after picking up the last scraps of can from the floor, "Shin-chan. She'll be upset if she sees you like this." Midorima furrowed as he stares at the beer can in his hands.

“She can be upset all she wants. I deserve it. She puts hope in me for finding the cure…and I couldn’t do nothing but …” he sighed. He sipped but there’s no more beer left in it. So, he grabs another from the fridge.

“Oi, Shin-chan! You have enough beers! You got work in the morning!” he grabs the still sealed beer from his friend hands. He puts it back into the fridge. He looks at Midorima who was staring at the floor. He sighed heavily. He knows Midorima would end up like this sooner or later after that conference. Their shifts for that day has already ended and Midorima follows him home. Apparently, his apartment is not safe for anyone to stay in right now. Not that Takao mind anyway.

Midorima wobbly walks towards the living room before tripped over his own foot as he falls flat on the floor; “Doctors supposed to save lives…why can’t I…save…hers…” he trailed off. Next second he was already deep asleep. Takao watched him as his shoulder fell, “It’s like me asking, why I can’t do anything for you.” He grabs a blanket from the cabinet nearby and drags it over the larger man after putting a soft pillow under his head.

He folded his legs as he leans against the wall and watched the doctor fast asleep.

‘Being a doctor, sucks.’

Doctors have their own difficulties. In the operating room, it is always a matter of life and death. Both him and Midorima has seen too many deaths in front of them that they’re immune to it but they still couldn’t except their dear friend, Kuroko is dying in front of them. Even with her deteriorating conditions, she still has not given up on hope. It made them felt even worst and helpless.

How can they tell her, they cannot do anything to help her?

----

A day later, both band members were summon to Rakuzan Agency. No one else but the three of them who was there when Reo gave the box to Kuroko knows what the meeting was about.

“Eh? We are going to release these songs in the upcoming concert? Then what about the ones we just recorded a month ago? ” Kise looked through all five songs. He furrowed slightly before he turns to Murasakibara, “Nee…Murasakibara-chii, do you recognize whose handwriting is this?” the purple haired giant nodded.

“It’s Aka-chin’s and Tsuki-chin’s.” All eyes turn to the drummist. Nijimura groaned as he scratched his forehead slightly, “Ah, I totally forgot Murasakibara has photogenic memory.”

He sighed as everyone focused on him once again, “Well, since secrets out. Akashi Seijuro and Kuroko Tetsuki originally composed these pieces when they were kids. Apparently, Akashi has left these for Kuroko-chan to bring them to life but as you all know, she’s not in the perfect condition to get on stage.” He puts down the documents on the table as his black orbs travels to each of them.

“Kuroko-chan has entrust us to bring these masterpieces to life.” That sentence alone carries a heavy burden of a last will. Moreover, the two of them composed these songs. Their love towards each other made these songs existed.  Kise looked at the music sheets as he bit his lower lip.

“I want to know if you are more than willing to do this. Once you accepted this task, you will not only have less resting time. You will be force to stay up late until the song is complete. We have a dateline and we must make it in time.” He explained. His tone was strict and firm.

‘It should be Akashi-chii the one who sings these songs with Kuroko-chii… if only I wasn’t so stupid back then…’

“Mmm…I have no problem~ as long as Tsuki-chin and Aka-chin is happy~” he raised one of his hands. Aomine joined in as well, “Same here. We owe a lot from them. It is time for us to make them proud of us. What ya say, Kise?” he nudged the keyboardist. Kise blinks a couple time before putting a smile, “Sure, I’m in.”

The meeting was adjourn with their schedules handed out and the music sheets complete with the release date. Everyone has left the meeting room but Kise. He stares at the music sheets. He sighed as he throws his back against the seat. He closes his eyes before opening them again. He eyed the papers on the table.

 ‘I gotta tell her sooner or later…’

-----

And so, with the next concert in three weeks, both band worked their butt off to make it in time with ten of the songs recording and what not. Their practice starts at 8 am and ends at 9pm at night, sometimes it went on late till 11 pm. They know rushing in things will have the quality drop but they really want to have it out by the next concert and they will do anything to keep the quality of the songs top notch.

As for Kuroko, she has not seen her friends for the past two weeks. Every day she waited for at least one of them to come but none showed up. She only has herself. Midorima and Takao were busy to drop by but when they did, they would spend hours talking to her. Takao often brought his handmade bentos for the bluenette to enjoy but they knew, they are nowhere good enough to keep her loneliness away. Kagami and Hibiki have not been visiting her.

Sometimes, during the night shift, Midorima would make his round and stop by the bluenette room. He often watched her crying herself to sleep with those letters held close to her chest. He sighed inwardly; he knows these things are out of his reach.  He can only watch her from the side. Quietly, he closes the door as he walks away.

‘It sucks to be a doctor.’

----

Aomine sprawls across the floor, “I can’t believe there would be a day that Nijimura would use Sparta ways to us.” He closes his eyes. It was the a few days before the concert and they have been recording, practicing, and photo shooting none stop. The managers rushed them here and there. When they are in the van, they took the chance to take a nap but only for a few minutes before the van stopped abruptly as it woke them up.

Murasakibara ransack the cabinets for snacks. He hasn’t been able to go to the stores to get his snacks and he needs them to replenish, “Sa-chin, do you have any snacks? The cabinet’s empty…” one could have sworn they saw a pair of puppy ears flat on his hair and a tail on the tall giant. The pinknette searched in her handbag, and then she smiled.

“Here you go, Muk-kun. Sorry that’s all I have left. I’ll try to run to the store later.” She gave a pack of chips to the drummist as he nodded. She looked around the studio. Both band members were flat out. They are in no shape to do any more rehearsals. As if Nijimura can read her mind, he showed up at the door.

“Alright, I think that should be all for today. I want all of you to have a good long rest. We have 5 days more before the concert and I don’t want anyone to be collapsing on stage. We will do the final rehearsal when we get there in four days. Understood?” he looked through the documents the pinknette just gave him. It was his usual habit to check on each band progression weekly but this time daily since what they’re doing are not within a normal agency reach.

“Thanks, Boss.” Aomine waved his hand to the raven-haired president from the floor. Nijimura simply nodded.  Then his eyes searched the place, he saw Kagami was already packing his belongings, “Kagami, about Kuroko-chan.”

Hibiki saw the president spoke to the taller red head. He joined in, “We’ve already book a room for her in the hotel for all the duration of the concert. She will have backstage passes and her own dressing room. Just for an in case emergency.” He heard Nijimura said. Kagami looked a little out of it. He simply stood there and listened, “I’m sure Tetsu would appreciate it as much as I did. Thanks a lot.” He bows down.

“You don’t look so good. What happened?” he demands. The taller man looked at him questioningly, “What do you mean?”

“You know what I mean. You don’t seems like you’re usual self.” Kagami looks away, “I don’t know…I’m just tired…of how things going for Tetsu…” he trails off.  The young president sighed, "You're her pillar of support, if you give up now, who would be supporting her?" Kagami remained silent.

“I’m sure you’re just exhausted. That’s why you’re over thinking things. Go home and rest. You have the day off tomorrow, go spend it with your sister.” He gave another pat on the back of the bassist. Kagami nodded. Nijimura folded his arms upfront, “Let the doctor knows about it so they can prepare whatever needed things for her.  We will leave in three days, alright?” he gave a pat on the bassist back. “Have a good long rest, Kagami. Let Kuroko-chan knows, I said hi.”

With that, they were dismissed for the next three days. All for themselves. Everyone has worked hard and by the time they reached home, they passed out on their bed, couch, or onto anything soft and comfortable.

As for Kagami, he collapsed onto his couch. Without changing his clothes or taking off his socks, he fell asleep the moment his head hits the soft couch. His bag was hanging from his left shoulder. The apartment was dead silent. No one was in the kitchen. The room Kuroko used to stay in was quiet. The white grand piano at the corner of the living room must have been collecting dusts. Now, it is only a place for Kagami to come back to change his clothes and get some rest before leaving the apartment for a whole day until middle of the night.

The whole apartment has lost its life including the owner of the apartment.

----

“Tetsu~” he pushed the door open. His orbs fall onto an empty bed. The wheelchair was not there as well. He went to the nearest nurse, “Ya know where Kuroko Tetsuki is?”

She recognized him since he is the one that came into the hospital, looking for the doctor in panic back then, “Yes, she’s out there in the garden. A visitor came over earlier with Mr. Himuro.” The nurses answered. He frowned as he follows her line of sight to the garden, “That bastard, why the hell is he here?!” he stomped angrily to the garden. Quickly, he went towards his sister. Then, he pushed the man with the spiky silver hair away from Kuroko, “Tai…ga…?”

“Why the hell are you here?!” Protectively he stood in front of his sister. Himuro, who was talking to Maria nearby, quickly rushed to the scene. He manages to stop Kagami from landing a punch to Haizaki. All eyes on them. Haizaki stood still. Kagami glaring daggers at him. Himuro sighed as he removed his hands from the tiger fists. Maria came running towards Kuroko who was confused with the sudden outburst.

Himuro asked Maria to bring Kuroko back to her room while he tries to solve this world war three. After the two ladies left, only then Himuro decided it is safe to discuss this matter. “Taiga, he’s not here to harm Tsuki-chan. He’s here to help.” The detective tries to calm him down but from the way things goes, the tiger don’t seems to believe what he just said.

Kagami glares at him, “First you said he’s dangerous, now he’s not dangerous! Make your fucking mind up, Tatsuya!” The detective sighed. He knows this would happen. It was his fault after all. He scratches his neck before he motioned the other silver haired man, “Haizaki, if you please.”

“It’s just like what the damn detective said. I’m here to help.”

Kagami was not lowering his guard, “Help with what? You are a wanted assassin, why are you here? Why did you approached my sister?!” question after another. He was on his nerve. He has been sleep deprived, he hasn’t been eating well, and now he is looking at the person he hated the most on earth.

“Look Taiga, your sister is a target for disposal and only he can help us to stop the assassination before it happens.” Only then, Kagami listens to him.

…

“Then, why didn’t you report this to the police? You’re a detective aren’t you? Why the hell are you working with an assassin?” Kagami didn’t take off his glares from the silver haired man in front of them. Himuro lost count of his sigh for that day, “If I report this, not only I will lose chance on getting evidence, Haizaki will be arrested and I will be detain in jail for this. It’s a huge risk but I want to make sure this assassination doesn’t happen.” He stares at the paper cup.

Haizaki eyed him, “It already happen once but only because I manage to stop him seconds before he shoots. The next one, we won’t be so lucky. The next one is either dead or alive.”

“Why is this happening? Tetsu never hurt anyone!” frustrated Kagami gritted his teeth.  He massaged his face with both of his palm. He felt so exhausted. TOO exhausted. Haizaki watched the bassist. Now he knows why Kuroko said, Kagami is overprotective.

“Greed blinds people.” His eyelids lower.

Kagami was at his limit, he grabs the assassin collar and pushed him to the wall, “She's my sister! HOW WOULD YOU FEEL IF YOU'RE IN MY SHOES, WATCHING HER DYING AWAY IN FRONT OF YOUR VERY EYES! WHEN YOU CAN'T DO NOTHING BUT TO WATCH!" Kagami shoved him to the wall. His lips trembles, “And NOW YOU’RE TELLING ME SOMEONE WANTS HER DEAD JUST BECAUSE THEY’RE JEALOUS!” his voice echoes throughout the silent hall. Some nurses quickly walk away from the group near the vendor machine.

"She's...my friend..." he gritted his teeth in frustration, “My one and only friend…did you think I would go this far if I don’t care about her? I chose her over my parents’ safety! I’m trying my best here, Kagami but I’m only a mere human no matter how you look at me!” Haizaki pulls away the bassist arms from his collar.

He shifts his gaze to Himuro, “Are you done? I’m going back to the apartment.”

Himuro gave a firm hold on Kagami’s shoulder, “I’ll see you later, Taiga. Stay safe.” The two of them left, leaving the bassist to his own. Kagami leans against the wall. He lets out a year worth sigh.

‘I don’t even know what I’m doing anymore…’

…

“I doubt he’s gonna trust me.” Haizaki stares outside the window of the car as Himuro drove by the hospital. His eyes caught sight of a certain bluenette in a certain room on. The detective shoulder fell, “It’ll take time. It can’t be helped. You’re a wanted man; any normal person would be on their guard with you around.”  

Haizaki frowned, “Then, why are you not?” Himuro looked to his side where Haizaki seated, then he focused on the road, “We made a deal and I trust you to see the deal gets through.” The assassin clicked his tongue. This is why he hates smart people; it’s hard to outsmart them no matter how hard you try.

“Whatever.”

---

“Kuroko-chii! I’m so happy that we’re all going together!” he squeals as he hugs the smaller bluenette. Kagami and Hibiki were busy packing up Kuroko’s belongings while Mayuzumi gets the wheelchair. On cue, Kise gathers her in his arms and carefully puts her onto the wheelchair. Mayuzumi was about to push the wheelchair when he noticed her silentness, “What’s wrong?”

“Is…it…really…okay…for…me…to…follow…you…guy…?” they all exchanged looked before Kagami smiled at her, “Yeah, its okay for you to follow us. I really don’t want to leave you here all alone. It will be a while before we can come back to Tokyo. I just want you to be somewhere I can reach you.” He tucked a soft blue strand behind her ears, “Stop worrying too much, and enjoy this trip.”

With that, they depart. They took the afternoon flight to Kyoto. The stage crews and what not was already there before them. The stage has been set up. It was not so far away from the beaches. The hotel was nearby too. Each of them gets a room of their own including Kuroko. Nijimura made sure, her room is next to Kagami’s and Hibiki’s. Her brothers became real overprotective right after they step out of the plane for unknown reason. They have a few hours to their own before they leave for their rehearsals. While Kuroko were left in the hotel since, she was still asleep when Kagami tries to wake her up. They figured she was exhausted.

---

“WOW! Now this is a stage! Much bigger! The girls are cute too!” Aomine declared the moment they get on the stage. The view was refreshing with the sea nearby. Hibiki nudge the taller male, “I’m sure Tsuki-chan would enjoy it if we bring her for a stroll later down the beach.” He motioned to the beach. Kagami closes his eyes and enjoy the cool breeze blowing through.

“Yea. I’m sure she will.”

---

Her eyelids flutters open. It took her a while to register that she’s in a different place. The bed was much more comfortable than the usual hospital bed she lays on. She looks around the room and saw no one. It was dark when she woke up. Then, she looked at the clock, “7 pm…Kagami and the others should be done with their rehearsals now…”

With an effort, she gets up and put her legs down to the side of the bed. Slowly, she brought herself to the wheelchair. Just to move herself from the bed to the wheelchair took her over 10 minutes. She looked at her trembling hands, ‘Soon I won’t be able to move at all…’ she sighed. She knows Kagami reminded her to stay in her room until he comes back but…

She closes the door and puts the cardkey onto her lap. She then wheeled the chair towards the elevator until she stopped abruptly at a corner. Hidden from whoever that was talking to someone, she listens. Carefully, she peeked. Her orbs widen.

“Why are you here, Luka?! I told you to not come near us anymore!” he half shouted. His amber orbs shone dangerously. Nearby, stood a familiar bruenette. Suzuki Luka, Akashi’s former fiancée turns around. She smirked, “I didn’t know I wasn’t allowed to come and watch the concert. I even bought the ticket.” She sneered. Then she walks him, “Or are you scared that I would reveal you’re the one who revealed her identity to the world and you’re the one who betrayed Seijuro.”

“Don’t you dar-“The sound of something dropped onto the floor nearby halted him. A blue cell phone. He knows who it was. Then he saw a glimpse of sea blue turning around at the corner. He quickly ran after her while Luka smirked, “That’s what you get for being useless.”

“Kuroko-chii, wait!” she shut close the door and locked it. Kise stopped in front of the door. He saw that frightened look on the bluenette, never in his life, he felt so rejected, “Kuroko-chii…please open the door…I can explain…” he pleads. No reply. He knows she’s there at the door. Frightened of him. He bit his lower lip.

He slides down against the door, “Née, Kuroko-chii...would you hear me out? It's okay if you don't want to look at me now, just...please listen to me..."

“I know we’re just friends…but from the very first time I met you…you changed my life. Every day I looked forward to meet you again. When you didn’t attend classes, the seat next to me felt empty. I would feel bored. I wanted to tell you how I felt but I was scared that you’ll hate me and the friendship we had before would shatter to pieces.” He buries his face between his arms. He closes his eyes.

“When I heard you were Akashi-chii former fiancée, I thought I would have a chance…but my greed blind me…my jealousy took over. I did everything I can to frame Akashi so that you wouldn't look at him but it didn’t change the way you look at him. I felt envious of him for having someone like you.” He chuckles as he brushes his blonde locks through his fingers. He sighed, “But in the end I never had a chance to be with you…”

“Nee…Kuroko-chii, you’re there listening to me, right…?” his heart felt painful. So painful that he rather felt death than this, “its okay to hate me after what happened…but…”He could hear his voice shook.

 "I have always loved you, Kuroko-chii..." droplet of tears fell. Her breathe hitched as her orbs widen at the confession.

“I would do anything to amend but it’s too late…if it weren’t for me, Akashi-chii would be the one who sings the songs you wrote. It was my fault, Kuroko-chii…his death was my fault.” He cries.

In the room, silent tears fell. She doesn’t know what to think anymore. The Kise she thought she could trust…the Kise she thought was a good friend…the Kise she thought was someone so outgoing but she never thought Kise would be the one who caused a loss of life….

Kise has betrayed her.

“Checkmate.” From afar, Hanamiya smirked as he turns around facing Luka, “Soon, my dear. Very soon.” 

___________________________

Don't forget to review and review! Four chapters more! Please give all your opinions on what ya think will happen or what will happened between Kuroko and Kise later. How will Haizaki help Kuroko. Next up, the long await concert.

Please review! 

Until then!

Winter!