Take Me Back Again

Warning: An AoKise Yaoi Fanfic. Self-edited. M-rated. Possible OOC-ness.

Disclaimer: For the last time, I don't own KnB. But as I close the story, I hope that Aomine and Kise will soon come in the open and admit their relationship as lovers.

A/N: Hi everyone. This is the last instalment of Take Me Back Again. First of all, let me thank you guys for the support you have given this fiction. I would never have been able to finish this without the readers. Let me also say that I owe it to the reviews you've dropped in. Those really boost me up, warmed my heart and just made me all-smiles. I really hope this chapter will answer all your questions and if not, you're free to formulate your own version of events or you can drop me a PM to clarify things [I have edited the other chapters so it might help if you'll re-read them for some clearing up.]. With that said, please read the final chapter and hope it'll take you in the world of Aomine and Kise in which the two of them shares the love they deserved.

*Half part of the story is in the past.

FINAL CHAPTER: I'M TAKING YOU BACK AGAIN

"He nods, as if to acknowledge that endings are almost always a little sad, even when there is something to look forward to on the other side." - Emily Giffin, Love The One You're With

"All endings are also beginnings. We just don't know it at the time." - Mitch Albom, The Five People You Meet in Heaven

...

"Aomine-kun, you like him right?" Kuroko Tetsuya said while he was taking care of the store's cash register. It was past eight in the evening and the two of them were the assigned employees to close the shop.

The tan guy momentarily stopped shifting the boxes and took a side glance at the light-haired guy before he grunted. "What are you talking about?"

The smaller guy shook his head. "Playing ignorant will not change the fact that Kise-kun is special to you."

Aomine's hand stopped in the mid-air before he sighed. "You're the one I like Tetsu." The tan guy said to the other.

The look that Kuroko gave Aomine was almost close to pitying. "You never liked me in that way Aomine-kun. It's just you making assumptions, trying to deny your feelings for Kise-kun." He didn't even cast a glance on Aomine and continued with his work.

This time, the taller guy leaves his duty and walked over the petite guy. He slammed a palm on the counter which made Kuroko flinched a bit.

"Damn! I just confessed to you and this is your reply? Are you mocking my feelings?" Aomine said with a slight edge on his voice. His expression was stern but it didn't even startle the light-haired one.

"I'm not. But if you insist that you like me that way, then why do you always talk about Kise-kun? You claim that you like me yet it's another guy that you talk about. I'm not offended nor do I feel hurt. In contrary I enjoy our chats. Do you know how your face looks like whenever you talk of him? Your expression softens and your whole body relaxes. Aomine-kun, why don't you just accept it?" Kuroko finishes softly, hoping that his words have reached his friend.

The tan guy blinked before he knotted his forehead. "That's stupid. There's no way in hell that I like that bastard Kise. You're the one imagining things Tetsu. Better get your eyesight checked."

The taller guy finished the conversation and head back to his neglected duty, saying nothing more. Kuroko however kept his sight lingered on the turned back, feeling sad for a certain blonde.

|.|

Aomine was at the back of the school where the lush greeneries filled the ground with the company of Kuroko Tetsuya. They were under the shade of a tree that was enough to cover them both. Since he met the guy, he has been captivated by him. His personality was none of those that he knew and his looks matches that of an adorable overgrown puppy. Conversations with Kuroko were fruitful and enjoyable. The little guy just understands him so, with the fact that he's quite difficult to deal with.

Looking in the clear blue sky between the spaces of the leaves, the sprawled tan guy asked, "Tetsu, about what you said before, how can you tell that I like Kise?"

Kuroko Tetsuya was caught off-guard by the question. A few days have already passed since that confession on their workplace and he was thinking that the subject is still a sensitive one. However, he was proven wrong. It was Aomine who opened it up.

He took a few calculated moment of silence. Gripping his milkshake slightly, he replied, "It was quite easy. Your face says it all."

"..."

The small guy plowed on, "You can keep running away but that will never change. Asking me like this, that must mean you're starting to accept it." He threw a glance at the guy lying on his back.

He didn't reply to the statement, rather he asked, "What expression do I have when I'm talking with you or with the others?"

Kuroko sighed. "It's entirely different. When you look at those people who has nothing to do with you, your face seems bored and more often than not, your face scrunched up in annoyance."

"Really?" Aomine was mildly intrigued.

"Yes. Then, will you admit that you like him?"

The tan guy had his eyes closed. In the darkness, a handsome blonde-haired man materialized. He slightly shook his head, "Say, if I do love him, how about that idiot? You think he feels something for me as well?" He sounded anxious himself.

Aomine Daiki was never the one to feel insecure. He's always confident, aggressive, arrogant and much more. So what is it about the blonde model that throws him off his composure? Sure they have shared much intimacy than friends do, but what if Kise just craves for someone who can satisfy his sexual urges and he just happens to catch his attention.

"You are afraid of taking risks. You are afraid of letting yourself vulnerable. You're scared of the idea of loving someone." Silence filled the atmosphere. The quiet rustles of the leaves were the only sound in the air.

When the bell finally rang, Tetsu left Aomine words to ponder and consider. "Falling in love should never be frightening. Falling in love is to be happy."

|.|

"Did you wait long?" Aomine asked the smaller guy.

It was a fine Saturday morning and both of them had the day free from work and school. They were currently in a fast-food chain just around their place of work. He decided to invite Kuroko for a snack before they proceed to his house where the light-haired guy will be tutoring him.

"No. I just got here." was the reply of the miniature young man.

"Great. Let's eat first." He pulled the chair opposite of Kuroko. "What do you want?" He was scanning the menu list. "Aside from milk shake." He added with a sly grin.

"Burger and fries."

"Got it. I'll order right away." The tan guy sped off to the counter, leaving his friend behind.

Kuroko had his eyes on the broad back, his mind wandering off to Aomine and Kise's relationship. He knew that Aomine is slowly attaching himself to the blonde yet the tan refuses to acknowledge his growing affection for the model. Whenever they see posters of him plastered on billboards and malls, Aomine's expression is that of pride but it changes when the advertisements include Kise and somebody else posing against each other.

He remembers an incident where they saw the blonde-haired ad for a brand of jeans. It was evidently meticulously made. Kise was topless, his washboard abs flaunted for everyone to ogle up. He looks absolutely sexy and hot wearing low-cut jeans that slightly expose his hip bone, the button undone, giving the viewers a glimpse of his boxers beneath. But it didn't stop there at all. Right beside him, an equally handsome guy stood, wearing the same jeans. They were looking at each other; the other guy has this predatory look on his eyes while his hand was grasping a neck tie loosely hanging on Kise's neck. Their position was screaming of dominance and possession. When Aomine saw this, he had his fists clenched and spit, "What a slut." before storming away from the poster.

Kuroko was then proven of what Aomine's feelings are for Kise. He hasn't even met the model, but Aomine's stories about him were enough for Kuroko to figure out what kind of person captured Aomine's heart, yet the tan guy still denies it.

"Here's your food." Aomine laid the tray on their table. "Fuck! The line was long!" He starts to unwrap his burger when he noticed that his companion wasn't eating.

"Hey!" He called on to the smaller guy. The light-blue eyes blinked before saying, "I believe its Kise-kun, standing over there."

The tan guy dropped his untouched burger. Slowly, he turned to the direction that Kuroko was pointing and there, he saw Kise in an unsuccessful disguise. Some of the customers were already whispering.

"You should call him over here." The voice of Kuroko snaps Aomine out of his daze.

Aomine stood and gestured the model to come up to their table. Kise hesitantly obeyed.

"Kise, what are you doing here?"

"Nothing. I got bored so I thought of strolling around." Kise replied. Tetsuya saw him beseechingly looked at Aomine then to him. The taller guy got the message although he looks reluctant.

"Kise, this guy here is Tetsu, Kuroko Tetsuya. Testu, this is Kise." Aomine simply introduced them.

"Nice meeting you Kuroko-kun! I am dying to see you. Aominecchi always tell me things about you!" Kise said cheerfully while shaking the small guy's hand.

"Nice meeting you as well Kise-kun." Despite the jovial demeanour, Kuroko observed that his face shows discomfort, disappointment and betrayal.

"Aren't you going somewhere else Kise? You should probably leave before people recognize you here." Kuroko mentally winced at the harshness that comes with the tone and Kise didn't miss it either.

He painfully smiled at the smallest guy and with a wave, he left.

"Wasn't that a bit cruel Aomine-kun?" He softly criticized the tan guy. Aomine only looked at him but said nothing else. The entire mealtime was spent in silence.

Aomine knew he went overboard with Kise but he couldn't help it. When the model called him beforehand, he didn't expect that Kise might still be going out. He did say that he'll be dropping by at the model's place and yet Kise still carelessly went out in the public.

He acted that way because he was feeling a bit on the guilty side. He lied to Kise when he said he will be doing things regarding his work when the truth is he will spend time to be tutored by Tetsuya. If he did tell the truth, Kise will surely tease him and he will never hear the end of it.

He brushed his face with his hands. God, what childishness! He's really an idiot!

|.|

It was pouring hard, enough to add to the laziness that Aomine was feeling. He was currently lounging on his living room, watching some sappy drama on the television when he received a call. It was Kise.

Now what does this idiot wants?

"Hello." He grumbled in the receiver.

"Aominecchi! Please pick me up from work. I'll cook you something nice tonight. I hope you haven't had your dinner yet." was Kise's too energetic reply.

Rolling his eyes, he said, "What?! I don't want to. I'm too lazy to go outside under this rain. But you can go straight here."

"But please. I forgot my umbrella and I have to walk before I can get in the car."

"Che! Ask someone there. I'm sure there's got to be at least one guy who'll willingly take you anywhere you want. I'm hanging up."

He was feeling particularly irritated. The past weeks with Kise were wonderful. They have shared more intimate moments than they can count. And slowly, he was starting to see what Kuroko was saying. Aomine is not one sweet person but lately he's been feeling giddy whenever he spent time with the model. But one thing that ticks him off big time is Kise's frivolousness that people around him take advantage off. The model is too careless and doesn't have much self-preservation! And that drives the tan guy to the edge! He can never guard Kise every time. Hell, they haven't spent an entire day together.

The conversation just now was a proof that he has feelings for him because it's not his rational mind speaking, it was his jealousy who shot at Kise.

He was still contemplating about it when his phone rang again. He looked at the caller and received a shock.

"Tetsu."

"Aomine-kun." The sound was almost drowned by the sound of the rain. The small guy must be outside. There was a sneeze before the voice said, "Can I please spend the night at your house?"

There was a pause before Aomine heard himself saying, "Sure. Where are you anyway? I'll pick you up. You don't sound so good, Tetsu."

"No, I'm fine. I can manage myself. See you then." A click and then he was gone.

Aomine was tapping his fingers on the table. Recalling the first call he received earlier, he was assuming that the blonde will not be dropping by since he snap at him. He sighed. With the weather condition, he'd rather spend it with Kise, the two of them snuggling under the covers and maybe they can also engage in some body-sweating activity. He grinned at his lewdness before he realized that he has just chose Kise over Tetsuya. It came as a shock, to admit it to himself after he keeps on denying it over and over. He rested his head at the back of the couch. In time, he'll admit it to the blonde's face. For now, he has some friend to take care of.

It was exactly ten minutes when the doorbell rang. Aomine hurriedly grabbed an umbrella and made his way outside. He saw Kuroko standing outside of the gate, looking unwell. Striding quickly, he opened the entrance.

"Tetsu, are you feeling alright? Where have you been? Let's get you inside." He ushered the little guy towards his house but at the same time his phone rang. He hastily brought it in his ear.

"Kise, what do you want?" Aomine was slightly shouting over the rain.

"Aominecchi, what do you prefer to eat?", Kise light-heartedly asked him.

"What?! Ah, dinner. No, don't come over. I'll be going out." He chose to lie so Kise won't come over his place. It'll be bad if he see Kuroko there. That blonde idiot will jump off into conclusions again.

"What? But I'm already—"

"I said don't come. Bye." He shoved his phone in his pocket.

Kuroko looked up to the tan guy, "Is this really fine Aomine-kun?"

The tan guy stopped before he shrugged, "Yeah. Don't worry about it. You need to take a shower first. Come on."

Little did Aomine know that the blonde guy was just around the corner, soaked in the rain himself.

|.|

Aomine changed after that. He was more aware of the blonde, how he looks so sexy lying in bed, naked and much ready to be taken. How the model's cries of pleasure was enough to bring the tan guy to ecstasy. How Kise slowly and surely made his way as Aomine's most important person. But Aomine wasn't the type to confess, no. He was more of a man with actions. And so their fucking turned to love making. More feelings were involved.

But is he ready? Will Kise accept him as his lover? Does Kise love him in the first place?

Those were the questions that kept on repeating in the tan guy's head for the past weeks. He noticed that Kise was more clingy, becoming more attached. Kise was deeply rooting in the relationship that they have both conceded as purely physical. Can he interpret that as Kise loving him? Accepting him as his boyfriend? In the first place, none of them have said that they love the other. What if Aomine's wrong?

He's not a coward. And he doesn't plan to lose this blonde-idiot who already had him in his palms. For now, he has to keep his feeling and emotions in check. And who's the perfect candidate and the sole person to hear his stupid stories about the blonde? Of course, none other than Kuroko Tetsuya. Aomine's really fortunate to have found a friend in him. He has mistaken his affection for the much smaller guy as love but Kuroko was the one to make him realize it was nothing compared to what he's feeling for the blonde. He should really have a serious talk with his light-haired friend and have his milkshakes ready.

|.|

Aomine decided to talk with Tetsuya at the coming Sunday. But a surprise came before lunch. Kise just popped out of nowhere and crashed in his house, not that it was the first time.

"What are you doing here?" He asked as soon as the blonde entered.

"I've brought lunch!" He was holding some bags with the logo of a popular restaurant. The scent of the food assaulted Aomine's nose and he heard his stomach grumbled.

Kise giggled. "Right. I'll prepare it right away. You just sit there and wait." The blonde smiled and proceeded in the tan guy's kitchen. He knows where everything is. He was whistling as he took out the takeout food.

Aomine was watching Kise with fondness. How the blonde moves around his house is a proof of his familiarity and the tan guy can't help but feel a slight squeeze in his heart. He really loves the man and sooner he have to give in and confess before he loses him. He has to tell it first to Kuroko and maybe ask for some advice since he admits that he's one tactless guy.

"Here you go!" Steaming rice, freshly cooked vegetables, roasted chicken, steamed fish, soup and juice flooded the table. Aomine almost drooled. Kise noticed it. "Dig in Aominecchi!"

The model took the liberty to serve food into Aomine's plate. Kise knows him well.

"Thanks Kise."

The fair-skin guy's hand was suspended in the mid-air. His honey-coloured eyes widen as if he can't believe just what he have heard. Aomine thanked him! It was the first time.

Aomine can almost hear the model's thoughts and he smirked. "Idiot. Eat already."

...

After they were done with the meal, Aomine headed to the shower. Just then, his cell phone rang. It was Kuroko calling him.

"Aomine-kun."

"Testu, why did you call?" He asked while he was stripping.

"I wanted to confirm our meeting later. Is it eight in the usual restaurant?"

"Yeah. Is that all?"

"Yes. I'll see you later." The light-haired hanged up.

He saw Kise sitting comfortably on the couch, his eyes has some unusual glint on them.

"Ne, Aominecchi, do you have any plans tonight?" Kise inquired the moment Aomine ended the call.

"Yes. This one's important so don't wait for me. I won't be home till its early morning or maybe till the next day."

"Is that so? Who are you meeting and where?"

Aomine stared at Kise for a while but answered nonetheless.

"It's Tetsu and it'll be in a family restaurant around the university."

"Hmmm. What time then?"

Aomine's brows creased. "Why are you asking? You planning to go with us? There's no way I'll allow that. You better get your ass off here. I'm gonna take a bath."

"Eh, eh. Tell me what time are you meeting that guy?! I'm not going anywhere unless you tell me."

"God, Kise, you're behaving like a child again." Kise pouts. Aomine shakes his head. " Alright, alright. 8 PM, happy now?"

There's a big smile plastered on Kise's face. "Yep!"

"Now shoo! Go home."

Kise grinned. "Thank you! That's all I need to know. Enjoy the night!" The blond bounced off his house.

"Troublesome, really troublesome." A small smile was playing in Aomine's lips.

|.|

No one can fathom what will happen and Aomine definitely isn't an exception. There wasn't any inkling feeling that the forth coming night will be the worst of them all.

The tan guy was caught in the traffic, given that it's a Sunday and people are usually out. He cursed when he saw that it's already eight. He decided to leave a message to Tetsu, saying that he'll be late.

It was half past eight when he saw the outline of the structure where he'll be meeting with his friend. He rushed out of the cab and went inside only to receive the biggest surprise. Kise was sitting across Kuroko, the blonde seems to be the one talking. Tetsu's face was blank but there's a crease on his forehead. It looks like what the model's saying in not all too friendly. He dashed towards the two.

"Kise, what are you doing here?!" He demanded of the blonde. He knew his voice sounded of a mixture of shock, fear and anxiety. What if Kise started telling Tetsuya all about their relationship? How he asked Kise to be his fuck buddy? Kuroko will definitely be disappointed with him and it will be unbelievable if he said that he really love the model despite their set-up. He knows what they have been doing is wrong and he never planned on falling in love with Kise. It's as good while it lasts. But then he slowly fell for the idiotic blonde, the cheerful sweet Kise.

Kise's answers confirmed his fear. He really did tell Kuroko everything about their relationship. He thought Kise wouldn't, after all it was all between the two of them, but he was mistaken. The light-haired small guy was looking at him, his expression unreadable. The tan guy gritted his teeth. So much for planning how to confess. Kise ruins it all.

"Let's talk outside. This is not something we can speak of with someone listening."

He grabbed the blonde's arm but Kise brushed him off. When he spoke, the blonde's voice was stern, unwavering. "No. We're going to talk, right here, right now. He'll be listening to every word." He pointed at Kuroko who was watching them the entire time.

"I'm tired of playing this game. I'm sick of being pushed aside every time. I don't want to disgrace myself anymore than this. I think I deserve to know where my place is in your life. What am I to you Aomine? How long should I whore myself before you say you lo—" Kise gulped. He caught himself the last moment before he exposed his true feelings. He has yet to hear Aomine first. Things might take a turn if he chose to hear his side before he can tell his. "So I'm expecting you to say the truth, after all your dear Tetsuya is listening." He said mockingly.

Aomine snapped. His control slipped and he was spouting things he would never have said if he has his feelings in control. "Fine! If you want to hear it, I'll give it to you! First of all, I asked you to be my fuck buddy. I never said you and I are gonna be lovers. So if I want to fuck someone else, it's in my perfect liberty to do so and you have nothing to say about that. You know that you can decline whenever I call you to come over but you never right? Because you want it and I never ever force you, not even once. I've never even heard any complaint from you and now you're having this against me?"

He huffed and plunged on. "Fuck it Kise! Did you turn into a girl while we're having sex huh? You're so melodramatic! That's what I hate about you! Yes I asked you to cook for me but aren't you the one who's always at my place? Living together with you never once entered my mind. Who wants to live with an annoying brat like you? You're too clingy, too loud, and too exuberant that it irritates me every time. The likes of you were never my type and will never be. If you've never been so shameless not to push yourself on me, we should not be having this conversation at all! What more do you want to know huh? Tell me!" Aomine was breathing heavily.

The next moments were like a blur. Kise started crying, utmost pain was evident with every word he uttered. Kise's pained voice and hurt expression were enough for Aomine to realize what he had done. The blonde's tears were like knives stabbing his heart repeatedly. Now he knows everything behind Kise's actions, his too much dedication and sacrifice for Aomine. It's all because he loved him but the tan guy crushed all of Kise's happiness.

Aomine was lost for words. He tried to touch Kise, to pacify him but the blonde flinched and rejected his offer. "Kise, I didn't mean to—" but the blonde cut him off, not wanting to hear his explanations anymore. And then Kise said it, "I might always be in love with you, I maybe not lose this feeling in years to come but you know, I've never regret loving you, only THIS time." With that, Kise left the place, left Aomine forever.

"Aomine-kun." The soft voice of Kuroko roused him up from the shock. The tan guy was slightly shaking as he took the seat vacated by Kise just a few moments ago.

He dropped his face into his palms. He was silently crying unable to grasp what just happened, trying to escape the reality. Warm hand patted his shoulder and he looked up. Kuroko was sharing his grief.

"I'm sorry that it turned out this way."

The taller guy shook his head in defeat. "It's not your fault, it's all mine. God! I'm so fucking stupid! Why did I said those words?!" He slammed a fist on the table causing some few diners to shot them weird looks. "Tetsu, what should I do? I asked you here because I want to confess my love to Kise but everything's ruined! Now, I will ask you, how can I get him back?"

The person asked sighed. "With what happened, I don't know if it's wise to talk with Kise for now. He's badly hurt Aomine-kun. Give him time to sort his feelings. He said he loves you and that is something you should hold into. You shouldn't give up on him. Fix yourself and when the time comes that you confess again, make sure it's for real and that you never plan on letting him go, ever."

Aomine did what Tetsuya said. He worked hard on his studies, pursued his chosen career but every time, he didn't fail on thinking about the blonde. After the incident, Aomine tried to seek Kise but the model refused until the tan guy felt it's useless. He didn't totally give up but he thought it's for the best that he let him alone. It was timely that their family had to move. For the last time, he went to Kise's house but the blonde didn't face him. Aomine knew that Kise saw him, because the curtain on his room which was visible from the outside swayed and Aomine thought he caught a glimpse of blonde tresses. And so, he continued living his life far from the model until one day he read a case that concerns some Kise Ryouta.

Just reading the name made Aomine's heart beat louder and faster. There can only be one Kise Ryouta that he knows of; the famous handsome model, who have once been his lover and still the one who owns his heart.

"Sir, I have never asked you for any favour, but just this once, won't you let me handle the case of Kise Ryouta?"

Akashi was intrigued with the request of his subordinate. Indeed, this is the first time he heard the Aomine Daiki asking for something.

"Why would I grant that?" He inclined his head and despite the soft tone, he was challenging the police officer to give him a satisfactory answer.

Aomine stood rigid, his voice unwavering, full of confidence and affections as he said, "Because he's the only one I've ever loved."

|.|

PRESENT

"Pass me the ball Hisashi!" The deep voice of a certain red-haired boom over the court as he asked his black-haired team mate for the leather.

It was one weekend; a year after the case of Kise Ryouta has been solved and closed. The friends of four decided to spend some time to bond and basketball was their perfect idea of bonding as well as proving who the better against each other is.

"Don't worry about him, guard Hisashi. I'm taking care of this Bakagami." Aomine snickered before he shifted positions. In a second he was already towering the red-haired. His long tan arms spread in a defence position. "Give it all you've got Bakagami."

The one on offense smirked sadistically as he shot a knowing look over Mitsui, now being heavily guarded by Shoichi Imayoshi. The glasses guy, though smiling was giving the aura of a predator. Mitsui locked eyes with the other raven before he bounced the ball to his left hand making a much higher overhead pass towards Kagami who at the same time jumped very high to catch the ball.

Aomine saw the move and leaped with his opponent and being taller than the red-haired, he successfully stole the ball that was aim for Kagami.

When the two of them landed on the floor, Aomine was grinning smugly at the defeated guy.

"Damn you Ahomine!"

"You need a lot of practice Taiga." He then sped off towards the hoop, Kagami in his heels. The red-haired tried to tap the ball out of the tan guy's grasp but Aomine was ready for it. He alternately dribbled the ball into both hands as he sprinted to the basket. The other pair of players was just behind them.

When he was almost below the hoop, he jumped off to shoot the ball and his action was mirrored by the red-haired. They were trying to stop him from making a score. Kagami showed his powerful and high jump while Mitsui joined beside him, both their arms stretched upwards, yet Aomine knows of this as well. He landed first and before the other can predict his next move, he was already in the air, the ball on his right hand, the hoop within inches from it. He slammed the ball hard into the basket as he floats in the air before letting go and landing on the floor.

Kagami and Mitsui were frowning while Shoichi was grinning. "Nice dunk Daiki. Well, it seems that the game is over and we won this time."

The tan guy tapped the one in glasses. "Hah! That was easy Shoichi. Hisashi, balme your team mate, he wasn't on guard."

The black-haired smirked. "No, you're just a monster Daiki. No wonder, you're the ace."

The response made Aomine grin. "Oh? Is Hisashi Mitsui admitting that I'm way better than him?"

The smaller guy's expression soured. "I didn't say that. It was only between you and Taiga. I'm the best here."

"You bastards!" The subject of their topic was glaring at them. They all laughed.

"Al right, alright, since you two won, it's our treat, right Hisashi.?" He turned to Mitsui, who frantically searched his jersey shorts and said, "It seems I forgot my wallet."

Aomine, Imayoshi and Mitsui all laughed with the expression of Kagami's face. Really, it's always worthy to bully him from time to time.

...

They were walking out from the restaurant, Shoichi and Mitsui excused themselves and took the different direction. They were supposed to go over Aomine's house.

"There's an urgent matter that needs my attention. I'll see you at work tomorrow Daiki, Taiga."

Aomine nodded at the glasses guy.

"I'll just call you guys." Mitsui said then. The two black-haired set off.

Aomine and Kagami were walking in the pavement, in the direction of his house when the red-haired exclaimed, "Damn, my wallet definitely thinned. You guys ate everything in there!"

The tan guy laughed heartily. "You're still saying that when you just consumed at least thirty burgers?"

"Well, I'm hungry!" The red-haired said defensively.

Aomine decided not to counteract. Kagami after all is the burger monster.

|.|

"How is it with Kise?" They were sharing some drinks over the veranda when Kagami just asked the question out of nowhere.

Aomine sighed. He was been wooing Kise for the past twelve months, non-stop. He sends flowers whenever he has shows and he never forgets to call him every time. One can say that they were in good terms but the tan guy will never settle for only that. He has every intention to make Kise his lover.

The policeman learned to be patient, due to his love for Kise. He's not regretting spending time for days thinking how will he be able to go where the blonde has some modelling stints or how can he asked his superior Akashi to give him some time off just to watch Kise. There were no regrets when it comes to him and Aomine has never felt lighter and happier than he is now. But he has to admit that there are times he's feeling insecure, unsure, jealous, possessive. Kise is beautifully handsome and there are so many people around him who lusts after the model.

Grunting a bit, he turned to his friend, "I guess every thing's just the same."

"What do you mean? Haven't you two gone out in dates?"

The tan guy spluttered on his drink which had Kagami moved away from him, with a disgusted expression on his face. "Dates, you say? I'll be lucky enough if I can even hold that idiot's hands."

"What?! Then what have you been doing all those times that you watch his shows? Don't tell me that it was all that? You just stare at him for hours?" The eyes of Kagami were bulging in disbelief.

Aomine shrugged. "Well, I have been able to talk him for a bit in his dressing room after the show. There I hand him those flowers."

The loud sound of mirth filled their surroundings. "God. This is so fucking funny! Are you a teenager Ahomine?"

The tan large hand landed a blow on the red-hair's head. "Damn you Daiki! What was that for?"

"You seem to be mocking me Taiga. May I ask how things are with Tetsu?"

It was Kagami's turn to blush. "None of your business." He grunted as he hid his face.

Aomine smirked sadistically. "Maybe I should tell Tetsu how you play around before."

"Don't you dare, you bastard!" Kagami raged into Aomine. "Tetsuya's the jealous type even if he doesn't admit it."

Kagami and Kuroko have been dating for a few months now. The two met when the red-haired man has been admitted in the hospital. The small guy has been the attending nurse of the injured policeman. It came as a shock when Aomine saw Kuroko being pushed in the bed by the much bigger guy. The tan guy can easily recall the said event.

...

"What the hell are you doing, Taiga?!" Aomine rushed to their side and dragged Kagami off from the light-haired nurse, whose face was slightly flushed. "Tetsu, you okay?"

"I'm fine, Aomine-kun." His deadpan expression was back. Kuroko then checked the IV of his patient. Kagami however was growling. His deadly glare fixed to the small guy.

Aomine was confused. He was looking back and forth to both of his friends. Something's clearly going on.

"Is there something wrong with the two of you?" He asked.

Kuroko stared at him but said nothing. It was Kagami who offered an explanation. "Tetsuya's questioning my feelings for him. He doesn't trust me at all. How can I fool when I'm tied here in the hospital?"

"That's my point Kagami-kun. You are trapped inside this room thus you don't see lot of people. What if you're mistaking your feelings for me?" The soft voice was unsure and slightly quivering.

Kagami coughed and said in a low tone. "I wouldn't have kissed you if I don't like you at all."

Simultaneously, both guys' face reddened. They stared at each other and held gazes for a moment before turning away. The tan guy who seems to be forgotten to be inside of the room, cried out. "WHAT?! You two already progress to that stage?"

No one answered but their silence was enough to give away their relationship. Aomine can only feel happy for his friends yet at the same time envy flooded in his system. He wished Kise and he can also attain such happiness together.

...

"I'm seriously happy for you Taiga." Aomine blurted.

The red-haired gaped, "You're being mushy Aomine. That's not like you at all!"

"Tch." He turned his attention back to his can of drink when his cell phone vibrated. He grabbed the gadget and was about to answer the call when he read the name that flashed on the screen that made him to almost drop the ringing object.

Why would Kise be calling me?! Usually it's Aomine who initiate the call.

Kagami woke him from his torpor. "Hey, you're not going to answer that?"

The tan guy coughed before tapping the device. "Kise."

"Aominecchi!" The slightly shrilled voice of the blonde assaulted the tan guy's ears but Aomine thought it was the most beautiful sound he has ever heard.

"Are you busy?" The model asked hesitantly.

"No. Why?" Aomine's answer was immediate.

"I have a show out of town and one of my assistants is sick. I have looked around and asked my manager if he knows anyone who can replace him, unfortunately there's no one available. I really do need a hand because this is a major fashion show. Do you think you can help me?" The model's tone was pleading.

Aomine looked uncertainly over the red-hair who was questioningly looking at him. The tan guy thought this is a rare chance to spend more time with the blonde. He found himself agreeing to the request.

"Thank you very much Aominecchi! You saved me! I'll see you tomorrow. Can you go on my place around six in the morning?"

"Yes."

"Well then, that's settled! Oh, please bring some change of clothes. We might spend the night there. See you!" With that, Kise's gone.

"Ahomine. What did Kise say?"

The policeman slid his phone on his pocket. "He asked me to go with him."

"Whoa! I thought you two aren't dating!"

"Idiot. This is not a date. I'm supposed to replace one of his assistants. He has an out-of-town show and he needs a hand."

Kagami snorted before he shrugged. "Better than nothing. But how about your duty?"

"Now that you've mention it, I have to inform Chief Akashi. I can't count how many times I've done this." The bluenette shook his head. He can never win against Kise.

|.|

Aomine-kun, is this really fine? Don't you have your own job?" Sakurai asked the tan guy who was moving some baggage of the model. They were currently inside a room inside a prestigious hotel where the show will take place.

"Don't worry manager. I have filed my vacation leave for this."

"But—"

The tan guy shook his head before inquiring, "Where's Kise?"

The small guy sighed in defeat. "He was called in by the designer and organizer for final fitting of the garments."

"I'll go and assist him." The manager nodded and the tan guy left the room.

...

Aomine was slightly annoyed. Kise was acting all too friendly with the other models and one particular brunette was openly flirting with his blonde. Aomine has to admit that the other model was good-looking and is as tall as him but he will never let Kise be in other guys' possession no matter how they look at all. No one will ever love Kise as much as he does.

He started for the group when he saw the brunette model swiftly hauled Kise into his sturdy body and cupped the blonde's chin. Aomine felt rage rear inside of him. He moved towards the two but then, he received a shock when the man holding Kise kissed the blonde full on the lips! There was a collective gasp and some wolf-whistled.

Aomine thought he saw hell and he charged towards the brunette who still has his hands on Kise's slender waist. His fist found contact in the model's face and he was satisfied when he heard the sound of flesh and a body stumbling on the floor.

"Aomine! What are you doing?!" Kise's shock voice echoed over the commotion.

Aomine turned to Kise. He then grasped the pale arms and dragged the model out of everybody's sight. He didn't pay any attention to the whisperings and even the manager's call.

When they were far enough, Aomine abruptly said, "What the fuck was that? Why do you let some other men touch you easily and kiss you to boot! Damn Kise! Do you love that guy huh?!"

Aomine knows that jealousy and irrationality was taking over him but he can't stop himself. He's feeling uneasy knowing that someone can snatch the model away from him. He cannot let it happen.

The model pulled his arm from the tight grip, "Why would you care? It's not as if you give a damn about me right?" Kise said coldly yet his eyes were blazing.

"Don't change the subject here. Answer me Kise. Do you even like that fucker?"

"None of your business. Who are you to pry into my private matters?

The policeman clenched his jaws. Kise's pushing him to the edge of his patience. "You're really one stubborn bastard."

And much to Kise's surprise he felt Aomine's lips in his own. The tongue swiped over his upper lip and the tongue of the taller guy was coaxing him to open his orifice. Feeling somewhat violated, Kise shoved the tan guy.

"Stop this Aomine! How long do you think you can play with my feelings? Do you think I'm still like my older self who can endure being pushed around? You can't do that anymore."

"What nonsense is that you idiot? Why do you think I'm here, slaving myself to you? And all those time I went to see your shows? You think I'm doing those just because I'm playing with you?"

Kise flinched at the harshness of the tone but mostly he was bothered because of the pain he detected on it.

"Wasn't that just for your atonement? He asked coldly.

"God Kise. You're still an airhead! I wouldn't do things to this extent just to show that I'm regretting what I did before. I wouldn't have punched that guy who was monopolizing you! I wouldn't have accepted this fucking job just because I wanted your apology! I did all of this because I want to be with you! Because I love you, you idiot!"

Kise was lost for words. When he recovered his composure, he bellowed, "You should have told me directly! You were always persistent Aominecchi! You're always the one making the first move! But all these time we see each other, all you do is give me flowers and congratulate me. You don't even smile at me. You talk to me so casually. It was like I'm just somebody else! Do you think I'll feel confident with that? I'm always uncertain. I don't know what you're thinking. Do you really still love me?" He asked, his voice shaking, afraid that he will hear an answer he's not expecting.

Aomine suddenly grabbed the lithe body and hugged the model while his hand lightly squeezed the blonde's nape. "Idiot. That's right. I love you, since before. I didn't want to make you feel pressured. I want to take this slowly but surely because I don't want to traumatized you again. I was an asshole for saying all those things before. I was a coward for not confessing earlier in the past. I hope you can forgive me Kise."

Kise let out a muffled sob and Aomine thought he said something wrong. "Hey! Why are you crying? You're supposed to be happy!" He pushed the smaller body softly to look at Kise.

"I am happy!" Kise retorted his eyes full of tears and his face scrunched up.

"Right, you are. I forgot that you're a cry baby." The policeman wiped the tears with his thumb while he was smiling.

The model pouts at the remark but a beautiful smile replaced it in an instant.

"I love you too, Aominecchi."

...

The show went smoothly and the audience was wowed by the different men's wear presented on the cat walk. It was Kise who took the final walk. A round of applause signalled the end of the fashion show.

Kise threw himself towards the presence of the tan guy as soon as he stepped down from the stage. He smiled with satisfaction as he felt the strong arms encircled his body.

"You were great Kise." Aomine said as soon as he released the blonde from his hold.

Kise looked up. "Aominecchi thinks so?"

"Yeah." There was so much pride encased in that short response that made Kise's heart swelled in happiness. He tiptoed and cupped the tan face in his hands. Without breaking eye contact, his thin lips captured Aomine's. Kise smiled in the kiss as Aomine started to deepen it. It was the best feeling ever.

|.|

SIX MONTHS AFTER

Finally, Kise can say he's the happiest man alive. After that fateful fashion show incident, they have spilled their feelings to each other. The emotions were overflowing and they spent hours conversing in hoarse voices. They have admitted their mistakes and said their apologies. Aomine was truly regretful of all the bad things he has done to the model before and Kise can only forgive him. That's love right? They have straightened out things and now they are enjoying some time together alone.

"Hey! Where are we going?" Kise was walking behind his boyfriend and they were currently inside a beautiful villa overlooking the beach that lay in white sand.

The two of them decided to take a break from work and spend some time in the beach. Kise wanted to rest first after a few hours of journey but it seems that Aomine has some idea.

"I want to sleep first Aominecchi! Where are we going?" The tan guys grip on the pale hands tightened and his paced quicken. The model can only follow as he was dragged.

They reached a beautiful circular garden not too far from their villa. It was adorned with different tropical flowers and plants. There's a great fountain of a mermaid in the middle and on the other side, there were different kinds of butterflies afloat.

"Wow. This is beautiful! Did you want to show me this Aominecchi?" Kise grinned appreciatively at his lover but the tan guy was not listening. Instead he was rummaging something from his pocket. The model creased his forehead.

"Hey Aominecchi. What are you doing?"

Aomine was now holding something red in his hands. He opened the velvet box and kneeled. He looked up to the astounded model who already, has a hand in his mouth, the tears forming in his eyes as he figured out what will happen next.

Out in the background, music began to play. It was one of their favourite songs. Kise opened his mouth but there were no words that left him. He continued to stare down at the guy.

"Will you marry me Ryouta?" Aomine asked in a slightly hoarse voice with much sincerity and love as the gorgeous gold ring gleamed before their eyes.

...

They spent the remains of the afternoon under the shade of the coconut tree not too far from the shore outside the villa. There's mat laid in the sand where the two of them were sitting. The blonde's head was resting on the tan guy's shoulder, their hands entwined between their pressed bodies. The calmness of the sea and the slight warmth of the setting sun enveloped the two.

"Aominecchi?" Kise said without looking at Aomine. His eyes were fixed onto the vast glistening body of water.

"Hm?" Was the response of the other guy.

"I was thinking, we're both happy now and we got what we want. Everything's perfect..." He paused before progressing, "You think we can keep this way until the end?"

"You're such an idiot, Kise. No one can say what will happen in the future."

The blonde pouted. It wasn't what he wants to hear. He wanted words of comfort, of something to pacify his uneasiness. He tried to pry his hands off the tan guy's possession but Aomine squeezed it harder.

"I know what you're thinking, that's why I said you're an idiot." Aomine then seek the hazel orbs.

"Ryouta, what will happen is uncertain but after all that we've been through I don't plan on letting go of this hand." He brought the smooth skin of Kise's hand over his lips. "I will always love you forever and ever."

"I..." The model was lost for words. His eyes turned watery as the two of them continued to lock gazes. Aomine's eyes shone with determination and love. He remembers those eyes as he accepted the marriage proposal a few hours ago. It was enough for Kise to know the truth behind the tan's words.

"I love you Daiki."

"I love you too, Ryouta."

Their lips met in a slow but heated kiss.

"How's Kagamicchi and Kurokocchi by the way?" Kise's voice was obviously flowing with happiness as they released each other.

"Fine, I guess. Those two are the same as ever. Tetsu sends his regards."

Kise nodded. He had been introduced again to Kuroko and Kagami after he and Aomine got together. Yet this time, the red and the light-haired guys were already an item. Old issues were forgotten and a true friendship blossomed between all of them.

The tan guy rubbed his chin with his left hand, like he remembered something, "And apparently, Tetsu just proposed to Taiga." Aomine threw the information indifferently.

He has always presumed that it'll be Tetsuya to do such aggressive things like proposing. Taiga is just an idiot and if the light-blue haired guy don't take things in his hands, their relationship will not progress.

"WHAT?!"

Kise's beautiful face was painted with disbelief. Aomine laughed heartily at his lover's reaction before he scooped the model into his arms and made his way towards their room. He'll make sure to replace the shock on his face with expressions of utmost pleasure and love.

"How— Why did Kurokocchi? I mean, I always thought Kagamicchi will—" Kise managed to say while he was airborne, but Aomine peck his lips into the model's open mouth.

"Enough of them. Time for our honeymoon Kise." Aomine grinned lustfully at his lover.

"But we haven't been married yet!" The brown orbs widen.

"You're telling me you can wait until that day?" The tan guy's brows rose in mockery.

Kise's face flushed, like it was the first time they'll be doing it. Tightening his grip into the tan nape, he closed the distance and kissed the love of his life.

The beautiful sunset behind their back sealed their eternal promise of loving each other.

~FIN~

Last A/N: It really has ended. It's a bit sad for me, saying my farewell to these two fictional characters that I've learned to love so much. For sure, I'll be writing more stories of AoKise, for this pair is my OTP. I hope you guys will look forward to it. ^^

I want to extend my gratitude to all who have reviewed : hitomi65, DarkAle85, It's my delicious imagination, koooma, JennyPham7, xbluerainbowx, Blank Angel, TheReihani, Roza Kirkland, takoyuuri, Lylia00, Kokicchi, Just Ellin, CodePolaris, Tetsunya, higitsune84tails, izhra, xMissNobody, sssuzuki, , lilasin101, caah-s, Jake Lodge, Rivaille, SeaWeedHead, maldita08, , Haruna Akio, erishinn kiasole, dreamycloud97, JuliessaSora, Lunacchi and all anonymous reviewers!

With that, I'm saying my own goodbye! It has been a wonderful journey! Until the next story! :*

P.S. REVIEWS?