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Chapter Text

The Usual Birthday Troubles
by IcyDeath

"Presents don't really mean much to me. I don't want to sound mawkish, but - it was the realization that I have a great many people in my life who really love me, and who I really love."  Gabriel Byrne

"Kise-san, to the next set please." His manager knocked on the model's trailer as he fixed up his appearance on the mirror.

"Hai!" The copycat said as he turned to follow after her, but then he paused when he caught sight of the calendar by the door. He blinked in surprise before smiling.

"What's wrong?" His manager asked, looking up from her phone to survey the model's suspicious expression.

Kise shook his head, "It's already the thirtieth, huh?"

She raised an eyebrow, "Yes. And?"

"Do I have any work for tomorrow?" The blonde asked his manager who began to scroll down her phone.

"Just one photo shoot and an interview-"

"Cancel all those. I'm booked for something else tomorrow." Kise smiled with a wink. His manager sighed.

"Basketball thing?" She asked in exasperation and Kise chuckled in response.

"Not really," He hummed as he made his way out of his trailer, "…more like a friend's…"

"…birthday?" Aomine yawned to his phone. "Whose? That creepy Imayoshi's?"

"Mou! Dai-chan, how could you forget? It's Tetsu-kun's birthday!" Momoi yelled on the phone. The ex-Teiko ace had to hold the phone away from his ear. "We have to get him something!"

"Isn't there something wrong with this picture?" Aomine said as he stood up and stretched, "Getting the guy who beat me in basketball a present for his birthday?"

"Geez, can't you stop thinking of basketball for one second? Outside of the court you and Tetsu-kun are friends!" His childhood friend insisted.

Aomine paused at those words and even Momoi seemed to have gone silent, the words she said finally processing to her. Blue eyes looked at the darkening sky.

"Dai-chan-"

"I think," The Touo ace said in a quiet voice, "That Tetsu and I stopped being friends a long time ago." And with that, he clicked his phone shut.

Why did you do that to Shige-kun?

Tetsu-kun has stopped coming to school.

Aomini frowned before lying back down on the ground. He covered his eyes with his arm, "This is so troublesome."

"Shin-chan! Isn't this cart too troublesome?" Takao panted as he pedaled through the highway. "Why can't we go to the station like normal people?"

"Are you implying something, Takao?" Midorima adjusted his glasses. "Am I somehow not normal for preferring this way of traveling?"

"Yes!" Takao shouted in victory when they finally arrived. "And that's a yes to your question too, by the way."

"Hmph, it's not my fault you lost in rock, paper, scissors. You must honor your promise as a man." The three-point shooter gracefully got off the cart.

"Mou, you take promises too seriously, Shin-chan." Takao puffed his cheeks playfully. "I only went along for fun."

"This is why you won't win in life, Takao." Midorima said as he neatly smoothed out the current month's page from the calendar. He looked down at the number 31 he had encircled that morning.

"Oh, I meant to ask, is there something special gonna happen tomorrow?" The Hawk eye specialist said as he looked over his friend's shoulder. "Is it your birthday Shin-chan? Ah, but aren't you a Cancer?"

The generation of miracle folded the page and pocketed it, "It's none of your business." He said before he turned and made his way into the house. "Park the cart in the storage room, don't let me tell you twice, Takao."

"You're so mean-" His teammate pouted. The four-eyed player did not pause or even slow his pace and Takao was forced to drag the cart alone, "Wait! Oi! Wait for me Shin-chan!"

"Atsushi, wait!" Himuro called out to the other ace of the Yosen team. The giant slowed his steps and turned just in time to see his teammate run up to him.

"Muro-chin," He acknowledged as he chewed on his favorite junk food. "Is something wrong?"

"Well, earlier, you borrowed my phone to text right?" The transfer student asked with a smile.

"Ah," Murasakibara remembered, "I forgot to charge my phone but I had to reply to Aka-chin. Thanks by the way." He said, thinking he forgot to thank the other.

"So you were texting your old captain." Himuro said in amusement and then he held out his phone. "It's no problem, actually I came to tell you that he replied."

"Oh?" The violet-haired took the phone and thumbed through the message.

From: xxx-xxx-xxx

It's fine Atsushi, don't forget to charge your phone when you get home.
And I presume you're eating junk food again, you should eat something healthier.

It's like he's his mother. Himuro chuckled to himself when he remembered accidentally reading the message earlier, thinking it was for him.

"'P.S.'" Murasakibara read out loud, "'Don't forget about January 31.' Neh, Muro-chin, what's happening on January 31?"

Himuro shrugged his shoulders, "The message is for you Atsushi. I'm sorry but I have no idea."

"January 31, January 31…" The powerful center thoughtfully said as he ate some more and then he paused in surprise, "Ah, that's right!"

His teammate raised an eyebrow, "Have you figured it out Atsushi?"

"Kuro-chin." Murasakibara said simply as he turned to leave.

"Kuro-" Himuro blinked, "Are you talking about Kuroko Tesuya-kun? Atsushi? What about Kuroko-kun?"

"Kuroko?" Reo raised an eyebrow at their captain. Akashi flipped his phone closed.

"Ah, it's his birthday tomorrow and I thought of reminding Atsushi." Akashi said as he placed a towel over his shoulder. "He is often forgetful of these things."

"But what are you going to do, Sei-chan? You and Atsu-chan aren't even in the same Tokyo district. Are you planning to go to Seirin to surprise your old teammate?" The uncrowned general guessed.

"Don't be too naïve, Reo. I won't miss a day of training just for an old teammate's birthday." Akashi said as he wiped at his forehead.

"How about an old friend's birthday?" Reo teased and Akashi paused.

"I…" The ex-Teiko captain paused, turning his back on his current teammate. "I think we have long lost the privilege of being called Tetsuya's friends."

The dark-haired player watched his captain go in surprise, "Sei-chan…"

"See you tomorrow, Kuroko!" Kagami waved at his partner before heading the opposite direction to get to his apartment. The ex-Teiko player turned to go his own way as well. He took out his phone and stared at the date and time.

January 30, 6:57 pm

He flipped his phone closed and looked up at the sky. It was cloudless and cool just like that night last year.

What are you going to do on your birthday tomorrow, Tetsu-kun?

I'll get you your lucky item for tomorrow, so you'll have better luck. I-It's not like I'm getting it as your present or anything.

Neh, neh, Kurokocchi! Why don't you go with me to work tomorrow? I can introduce you to some famous people! It'll be fun!

Oi, bring us with you. It's no fun celebrating a birthday alone, Tetsu.

Mou, Aominecchi just wants meet Horiuchi Mako-

It's Horikita Mai-chan!

We should have lots of cake and candy for Kurochin's birthday.

Atsushi, it's Tetsuya's decision whether he prefers to have lots of sweets on his birthday.

Kuroko let out a cool breath, looking down at his phone. None of his old teammates had contacted him for a long time, aside from Kise who asked about Midorima's lucky test item- but that was more likely to bother him before exams than a friendly call.

Tomorrow was his birthday again, but the only people who knew about it were in five different places and his parents had already apologized because they wouldn't be able to make it.

Before he knew it, Kuroko was already sending a text to a certain red-headed teammate he just saw off not two minutes ago.

To: Kagami-kun
From: Kuroko

7:01:19 pm

Subject: Tomorrow

Let's go to Maji Burger tomorrow.

It sounded silly now that Kuroko reread it and he sighed before flipping his phone closed.

Ping!

The bluenette blinked in shock before reading the new message. That was fast.

To: Kuroko
From: Kagami-kun

7:03:01 pm

Re: Subject: Haaa?

Don't we go there everyday anyway? Aren't you tired of their vanilla shakes yet?

The phantom player huffed and typed out a quick reply that poked fun at Kagami's stomach and in the end apologized and told the other to forget it. He pocketed his phone and continued walking towards his house.

Ping!

To: Kuroko
From: Kagami-kun

7:09:28 pm

Re: Re: Re: Subject: Idiot

I didn't say I didn't want to go. I'll meet you there, my treat. You eat too little anyway, it won't be too expensive at least.

Kuroko blinked in shock and a small smile lit his face as he typed, Kagami-kun is too kind. He couldn't think of anything else to say. All he wanted was to celebrate his birthday with a friend but no one knew it was his birthday. However, Kagami was unknowingly giving his company to him for tomorrow. It was better than he hoped.

To: Kuroko
From: Kagami-kun

7:19:11 pm

Re: Re: Re: Re: Re Subject: Idiot

It's a thank you for the last game. Your pass really saved us that time so it's no big deal and-

-And the text rambled on more excuses and Kuroko's smile grew as he walked home and read through it. He exchanged texts with Kagami for awhile and before he knew it, he was home.

In the end, that night didn't turn out as cold as he first thought.

January 31, 02:17:55 am

Kagami was woken to the light vibration beside his pillow. He cursed lightly and picked up his phone in annoyance.

1 New Message

The Seirin ace blinked several times and saw that the number was unknown. Annoyed that he wouldn't be able to give the sender an earful of his annoyance, he proceeded to read the message.

January 31 is Kuroko Tetsuya's birthday, idiot.

Kagami blinked in surprise as he looked at his alarm and noted that yes, today was January 31 which meant-

"EH? KUROKO'S BIRTHDAY?" Hyuga yelled, his voice echoing throughout the court. The other members of the team turned to their captain in equal surprise. It seemed like no one knew it was Kuroko's birthday.

"Hai, desu." Kagami nodded seriously.

"He didn't tell us at all." Izuki said, still blinking in surprise.

"It's more our fault for not asking him." Kiyoshi laughed sheepishly, "I mean, it's sort of weird to suddenly go saying your birthday's tomorrow right?"

"Still, that idiot should have said something!" The Seirin captain grumbled as he crossed his arms. "We're unprepared."

Koganei nodded, "It would have been great if we had more time to prepare for a surprise party. I bet Kuroko's expression would have been interesting."

"Who says we have no time to do that now?" Riko said with a shine to her eyes. "If it's okay for everyone, we could cancel practice now to prepare for Kuroko's birthday. Does he have any special plans today Kagami-kun?"

The Seirin ace looked taken aback, "Why are you asking me, desu?"

"Well, you two are basically attached to the hips-"

"We're not!" And then Kagami cleared his throat to change the subject, "Yesterday he invited me to go to Maji burger."

"Eh? But don't you two go there everyday anyway?"

"I thought it was strange too…" The light said, "…desu."

"Ah, maybe that was Kuroko's subtle way of saying that he wanted company for his birthday." Tsuchida concluded thoughtfully. "Cancelling practice for this is okay with me, what about you guys?" He asked currently present members. Mitobe and the two other first years weren't here yet.

"Yeah!" Everyone else said.

"It's fine, but," Furihata said as he scratched his cheek, "Wouldn't Kuroko notice if we suddenly cancel practice for no reason?"

"Leave it to me." The coach said confidently, "Teppei and Koganei-kun will go and prepare the things we need while everyone else stay here and keep Kuroko distracted by pretending that practice is going on. I'll just say that Kiyoshi had a check-up and I sent Koganei-kun out on an errand. Then Hyuga will go to check on them during lunch period."

"Ah, that sounds good." Hyuga nodded as he turned to their team. "Any objections?"

"Ano," Kagami focused all the attention on him, "Actually, I also have an idea."

Riko blinked in surprise and nodded, "Go on."

The red-haired player looked away and scratched at the back of his neck, "You see-"

"Kuroko!" Fukuda greeted their fellow first year when he entered for morning practice. Furihata had texted him and Kawahara about the team's plan. Even Mitobe was already there, pretending to take a break at the side but was actually texting Koganei the ingredients needed for a cake. Buying one seemes less sincere than actually making one and besides he already had half of the needed ingredients.

"Fukuda-kun," Kuroko greeted with a nod and he turned his head, looking for his partner and a few of their seniors. "I'm not surprised that Kagami-kun isn't here yet, but where are Koganei-senpai and Kiyoshi-senpai?"

"A-Ah, Kiyoshi-senpai was scheduled for a check-up this morning." Kawahara answered, trying not to look too suspicious or unsure. "I don't know about Koganei-senpai though."

"I know! Coach sent him out for an errand or something." Fukuda laughed uncomfortably, "Right Furihata?"

Furihata seemed more at ease than his other friends and nodded, "Anyway, let's go and start the training menu. Have you texted Kagami? Maybe he overslept again."

"But I thought Kagami was-" Kawahara began to whisper but he was jabbed in the ribs by Fukuda who whistled innocently. Thankfully, Kuroko was too busy extracting his phone to notice.

"Ah, he may have stayed up late last night watching some NBA games again." The phantom player said as he sent out a message. Several seconds later he got a reply.

To: Kuroko
From: Kagami-kun

7:33:47 am

Re: Subject: Practice

Ah, tell Coach I can't come in today. A relative of mine asked me to come over because of an emergency. It's in the next town over so I'm gonna be gone the whole day.

Sorry about Maji burger, I'll treat you to 5 vanilla shakes next time.

Kuroko tried to ignore the pang in his stomach at the last part of the message. He typed out a quick It's okay, before flipping his phone closed and pocketing it.

"He says he can't make it. Something about an emergency." He hoped his voice didn't sound as down as he felt.

"A-Ah," By the worried tone from his friends, he could tell he didn't succeed in keeping his depression out of his voice. He sighed internally, "Maa, maybe we can hang out with you at Maji burger after practice today."

Kuroko looked up in surprise, Eh?

"I mean," Fukuda said with a hesitant smile, "Since Kagami won't be there to hang out with you today, if you won't mind our company-"

"I don't mind." Kuroko said neutrally. Fukuda, Furihata, and Kawahara looked relieved.

"Oi! First years! Stop slacking off!" Riko's shrill whistle echoed throughout the gym. The first years tensed.

"Hai! Gomenasai!"

"That didn't feel like pretend warm-up at all." Kawahara panted as he sat on the floor and leaned against the bench.

"Oi, keep your voice down, Kuroko might hear." Hyuga hissed to the first year who apologized.

"Riko's more pumped up than normal." Tsuchida commented as he drank a bottle of water. Mitobe nodded, wiping at his forehead. "Might be because of later."

"She's excited to celebrate Kuroko's birthday." Izuki smiled and then he got a thoughtful look on his face, "I should prepare some gags for the party."

"Idiot!" The Seirin captain hit him on the head, "Don't get ahead of yourself, it's not a kid's party!"

"Kuroko's coming!" Fukuda warned them so they could stop talking about the surprise.

"Good job." Furihata said as he handed his fellow classmate a bottle of water. Kuroko nodded in thanks, unable to speak due to his panting. He drank down the water as Riko approached them.

"I guess that's all for this morning, you guys should shower and change, then head to classes. I'll give you the result for this morning's menu later and we'll see where we can improve from there." Riko said as she wrote down on her clipboard. "Dismissed!"

"Arigatou guzaimasu!" The team said before all heading for the showers.

"Ah, Fukuda-kun, you're free for the next hour right?" Riko asked the freshman before he could head off.

"Yes."

"Can you go check on Koganei-kun?" Riko saw that Kuroko was not far off and added hastily, "He hasn't come back from his errand yet and I thought there may be some trouble." She gave him a piece of paper that specified specific instructions on what to help with Koganei. "I'd really appreciate it."

"Oh, okay." Fukuda said taking the paper. Kuroko, who had been listening on the conversation turned.

"I can go with you if you like. My class doesn't start until later-" Kuroko began but was cut off immediately by Kawahara.

"Ah, no- It's fine! I'll go with Fukuda." Kawahara laughed, placing an arm around his friend.

"Uh, actually Kuroko, I needed your help with one of our homeworks in Japanese History." Furihata said, "Let's let those two handle it."

"Ah, Furihata-kun is right. Besides you're still tired from the training menu right? You should rest." Riko said with a smile. She turned to the seniors who had also lingered to see what was up, "The rest of you hurry up and shower or you'll be late for class."

"Yes!"

Meanwhile at Kaijo…

Kise hummed thoughtfully to himself as he walked briskly to the gate. Today was Kuroko's birthday and he managed to get a day off to go and visit his old mentor.

"Oi." A certain red-head by the gate made him pause before breaking into a wide grin.

"Kagamicchi! What are you doing here?" The model-slash-basketball-player greeted enthusiastically as he bounded over to the Seirin ace. "Is Kurokocchi here with you? Neh, you do know it's Kurokocchi's birthday today?"

Kagami frowned at him, "Yeah, I know. He didn't tell us and I only found out today. I told the rest of the team though and they're planning a surprise party for him."

"Wah! That sounds interesting! Did you come here to invite me, Kagamicchi? Aw, how sweet!" Kise said with a smile. "I was actually headed to Seirin to greet Kurokocchi. Some of the fans managed to get hold of my phone though and I don't have his phone number memorized so I couldn't text him a happy birthday." He sheepishly scratched the back of his head and then his expression lit up, "Actually can I borrow your phone? You of all people must text Kurokocchi a lot, so you must have his number!"

Kagami sweat dropped, "What do you mean by that? And no, I can't lend you my phone. Kuroko will realize I'm not visiting my relative. Actually, he doesn't know that the team knows it's his birthday."

"Eh? Wow, you really are taking surprise to a whole new level. Are you actually out doing birthday errands right now? Are you the one in charge of the cake? I know some good bakeshops-" Kise began to say excitedly but Kagami interrupted him.

"No, actually I'm on a solo errand." Kuroko's current light said as he crossed his arms, "And I need your help."

The copycat blinked in surprise before asking, "What do you need?"

Kagami pursed his lips and said, "You see…"

"Ah, it's almost time for classes. Thanks for helping me out again, Kuroko." Furihata said to his teammate who only nodded.

"You actually didn't need my help, from what I saw you already knew the answers to most of it." Kuroko said with his usual impassive face. Furihata sweat dropped.

"Ah, no, that was mostly guessing. Anyway, see you later? I have History right now." The first year said and the phantom player waved him off before heading to his own classroom.

As always, no one noticed the ex-Teiko sixth man enter the classroom and Kuroko slipped towards the seat behind Kagami, undisturbed. No one greeted him or asked him how he was and it was just a normal school day only without his light to notice the shadow.

Wah! How long have you been there?

Kuroko smiled to himself at the thought of the expression on Kagami's face if he was here. The red-head probably wouldn't notice that his partner was behind him until Kuroko poked him or said something. But then again, the other had become really good at sensing his presence lately.

The teacher for the first subject entered and began to start his lecture. He was the type that didn't record the attendance, so Kuroko was free to be as invisible as he wanted. The Seirin trump card looked out of the window quietly.

It was going to be a long day.

"Oi, why did you suddenly become quiet?" Kagami said as he and Kise boarded the MRT. Several girls turned to them, a few giggling when they caught sight of Kise.

"Ah, you see…" Kise scratched at his cheek with a sheepish expression. "I mean, it's great that Kagamicchi's doing this for Kurokocchi's sake," At this Kagami sputtered and flushed, "But I don't think everyone else would go along with it. I mean, sure maybe we could convince Midorimacchi but the rest…" He trailed of unsure.

"Ha? Why wouldn't they want to go and celebrate an old friend's birthday?" Kagami asked with a frown.

Kise laughed, "An old friend, huh? I don't think Kurokochi sees us like that anymore."

The Seirin ace raised an eyebrow, "Oi, what do you mean? Weren't you the one cheeky enough to introduce yourself as Kuroko's best friend the first time you came to Seirin?"

"That was a joke. I knew Kurokocchi would respond that way so I played along." The model said, "And besides, the others would agree with me too. We've all been changed by Kurokocchi and maybe deep inside the others might want to come and celebrate his birthday again but-"

"But?"

"We're not sure if… Kurokocchi has forgiven us for middle school." Kise licked his lips and looked down, "I mean, looking back on it, we were jerks. No wonder why he left after the championship-"

Kagami scoffed, "That's stupid. There's no question why Kuroko left you, I heard from the seniors what you did and yeah you were all a-holes."

"Hey!"

"But what's even stupider is the fact that you're letting the past ruin Kuroko's birthday." The light huffed in annoyance, "I mean Kuroko went through all this trouble to get all of your heads straightened again and the least you can do is show up for his goddamn surprise party. The way I see it, is either you go or you don't, no dramas from the past, no basketball, no nothing. Just a bunch of friends celebrating someone's birthday. If you want to go, you go, period."

Kise's eyes widened. "Kagamicchi…"

"So much for being called geniuses," The redhead muttered, "You're all idiots."

The model blinked once more in surprise before bursting out laughing. Kagami turned to him in shock and slight worry that he might be losing his head.

"O-Oi…"

"You really are a big softie Kagamicchi," The copycat wiped the tears that had formed at the corner of his eyes. "Okay, since we're doing this, let's do our best to convince the others."

Kagami blinked in confusion for several seconds before grinning, "Ah."

Break time…

The door to the gym creaked open as Kuroko peeked inside. As expected, no one was in the gym during break and so the bluenette entered feeling more at ease now that he was on the basketball court. He walked towards the place where they kept the basketballs and took one. He slowly began to dribble and run towards the basketball ring before shooting.

The ball disappeared before going through the hoop neatly.

A clap resounded throughout the supposed empty gym and Kuroko turned in surprise. Kiyoshi had just come out of the locker room looking impressed.

"You came to practice during break again, Kuroko?" The Seirin founder asked with a kind smile. The phantom player nodded slightly.

"Kiyoshi-senpai," He acknowledged, "I didn't see you during this morning's practice. How was your appointment with the doctor?"

Kiyoshi blinked, "Appointment?"

"Kawahara-kun said you had a doctor's appointment scheduled this morning." Kuroko nodded.

"Hm," Kiyoshi rubbed at his chin, "I didn't know I had an appointment with the doctor-" And the he paused, remembering what Riko said earlier about him pretending to have a doctor's appointment. "Oh right, yeah, that one! Oops, I seem to have forgotten. I met a neighbor of mine on the way there and got sidetracked. I guess I'll have it rescheduled to this afternoon." He laughed.

The phantom man sweat dropped, "You should really take your appointments more seriously. Senpai should take better care of himself so you can play with us again in the future."

Kiyoshi paused, "Kuroko…"

The ex-Teiko student turned and shot another basket. But he didn't use his special stance and just shot like a normal average player. As expected, the ball bounced off the rim and to the ground.

"Senpai, I'm really sorry about middleschool." Kuroko said, his back still turned.

The center blinked, "Eh?"

"I heard from Hyuga-senpai that because of the Generation of Miracles, you, him, and who knows how many other people began to hate basketball for awhile." The sixth man said quietly as he picked up the ball that rolled to him. "I know how painful it must have felt to hate something you loved. And the fact that we were the cause of that-" He shot another basket and it hit the board and bounced off. "On behalf of my former teammates, I'm sorry."

Kiyoshi watched the younger member before sighing, "It's not your fault Kuroko. The Generation of Miracles were strong and Hyuga and I were just overwhelmed by that. Actually we should be thanking you, it's because of the Generation of Miracles that we began to love basketball even more and try even harder. You, a member of the Generation of Miracles, were what brought us back together as a team, Kuroko." He grinned at Kuroko whose shoulders were tense in surprise. "So, thank you."

The shadow didn't say anything as he picked up the ball and shot again, this time with the stance Aomine taught him. The ball sailed through the air and smoothly went in the basket.

Kiyoshi didn't miss the smile on the other's lips when it did.

Chapter Text

The Usual Birthday Troubles
by IcyDeath

All the world is birthday cake, so take a piece, but not too much.
George Harrison

Meanwhile, at Shuutoku…

A vein popped on Midorima's forehead as he looked at the two unexpected visitors by the gate. "And what…" He exhaled noisily, "are you two idiots doing here?" Behind him, Takao was blinking in surprise.

"Kagami and Kise?" Takao pointed at the two and then laughed, "Wow, this was a combi I never expected to see!"

"Usu." Kagami nodded his head.

"Midorimacchi!" Kise greeted enthusiastically, "We came to get you for Kurokocchi's surprise birthday party!"

"Eh? Kuroko's?" Midorima's partner said in surprise before he grinned. "Ah, so that's what the calendar thing was about!" He violently patted the four-eyed player on the back, "Aw, Shin-chan, why didn't you say so? Neh, I'm invited too, right? I can come too, right?"

"Of course! The more the merrier-ssu!" The model agreed and Kagami sweat dropped.

"Oi, you don't get to decide that yourself."

"Why not? I'm sure Seirin's coach would love to have Takao at the party! Actually I already sent Kasamatsu-senpai a message too. He said he'll see what he can do." The copycat said with a wide grin, "He even texted your captain and they're collaborating right now!"

"Ha?" Kagami asked. Midorima adjusted his glasses.

"Seeing as you already have enough people for that get together then I don't have to go. Takao can represent me. Also, give this to Kuroko later." The three-point expert extracted a neatly wrapped package, "It's his lucky item for next month." Then he looked away, "I-It's not like it's a present or anything."

The hawk-eyed man laughed, "Total tsundere."

Kise pouted, "You're not coming Midorimacchi? We're off to get Aominecchi and the others too. Kurokocchi would be happy to see us, I'm sure of it!"

"And what is the basis of your conclusion?" The green-haired basketball player frowned before he grabbed Kise's hand and gave the small package to him. "Kuroko didn't even invite us himself so I don't see why we're obligated to go."

"That's-" Kise began but then he was interrupted when Kagami took the small package and threw it at Midorima's head.

It hit the member of the Generation of Miracles, but thankfully Takao caught it before it fell to the ground, "Whoa!"

"It's a surprise party, airhead!" The Seirin ace said, annoyed. "Kuroko doesn't know anything about it, so I'm sorry if you won't be getting a VIP invite from the celebrant himself!"

Midorima turned to his rival with a frown, "Either way, you still don't have any proof that Kuroko would want us there."

"Damn it!" Kagami said as he grabbed the three-point shooter by the front of his uniform. Kise and Takao tried to calm the two down. "For a poker-faced bastard, you're such a drama queen! You're even worse than Kise!"

Takao laughed as Kise looked offended. "That's a mean thing to say Kagamicchi!"

"Kuroko doesn't know about the party but I'm sure that if he knew, he'd want you and the other bastards there with him!" The red-head said, "And if you ask another stupid question about how sure I am then let me tell you this, I'm his partner for a reason. We're friends outside of basketball too and I know the current Kuroko more than you do, so you better take my word for it."

Midorima blinked in surprise at that.

"Now, the problem lies with you. I know you want to go since you never exactly said no and you just kept spouting some stupid nonsense about how Kuroko doesn't want you there." Kagami exhaled and let go of the other finally, "So are you gonna man up and come with us or not?"

Takao jabbed the other on the side and said in exasperation, "Just go already, Shin-chan. Then you can finally loosen up at the party and have fun." He gave the small package to the other who accepted it hesitantly.

The four-eyed player looked at Kise who shrugged, "He's a persistent guy and besides, you want to go, don't you Midorimacchi?"

Midorima closed his hand around Kuroko's lucky item and looked away, "Fine."

Kise and Takao both grinned while Kagami sighed. "You're all too troublesome."

Kuroko stared at his phone in concentration. He was leaning against the windows outside of his classroom. Their teacher was absent and for some reason none of his teammates seemed to be around. Little did he know that Hyuga and Izuki were just by the corner, spying on him.

"Ah, he's really staring at his phone." Izuki said in worry. "Is he really that excited to end this day? Maybe he hates birthdays and we're making it worse by organizing a surprise party?"

"No, actually it looks like he's waiting for someone's text." Hyuga said as he adjusted his glasses.

"Haha, it can't be he's waiting for Kagami's text right?" Kiyoshi laughed behind them. The two turned abruptly and Izuki managed to cover Hyuga's mouth before he blurted out their founder's name.

"Kiyoshi!" Izuki whispered instead, "How long have you been there? And weren't you 'at your doctor's appointment'?" He did air quotes.

"Eh? What appointment? First you and then Kuroko, I told you I'm fine." The powerful center laughed and Hyuga face-palmed himself while Izuki sighed.

"I hope you didn't blow your cover, moron. Izuki meant that we thought you were doing the party errands with Koganei." The Seirin captain huffed.

"Ah, that. Mitobe took over after Koganei accidentally bought salt rather than sugar." Kiyoshi explained, "Baking a cake is so complicated."

"Idiot!" Hyuga hit the other on the head, "Are you trying to poison us?"

"Maa, Hyuga, salt can't kill people." The taller one said happily. "Anyway, why are you spying on Kuroko?"

"We're just worried about him. Everyone's busy on his birthday and we thought he might notice or be a little bit lonely." Hyuga explained as he looked at the bluenette. Said student was still staring at his phone in concentration.

"Maybe he's waiting for someone to greet him via text? I mean, there has to be other people who know it's his birthday right?" Izuki asked. "Like the Generation of Miracles?"

"Hm, but maybe it's more complicated than that?" Kiyoshi asked, "I mean, that's why Kagami is personally seeing to it that they get to the party right?"

The clutch shooter popped a vein, "For geniuses the Generation of Miracles are a bunch of idiots."

"Oh, happy birthday!" The three second years looked up in surprise. But to their disappointment the statement wasn't directed to the bluenette. There were a bunch of boys chatting by the side.

"Haha, you idiots, my birthday is tomorrow, not today." One of the boys laughed.

"Oh, then let's go out to Maji burger tomorrow then and since it's your birthday it'll be your treat!" His friend nudged him at the ribs.

"Hey!" But all three laughed at that and walked off. Kuroko watched them go before looking back at his phone and flipping it closed. He held his phone tightly before pocketing it and turning to go back into the classroom.

"Ah…" Kiyoshi said, expression sad. "That's not good."

"Tell me about it." Hyuga sighed, "I wish we could finish preparations soon. It's not good to leave Kuroko alone today of all days."

Izuki nodded with pursed lips, "This is the disadvantage of surprise parties. We can't even go up to him normally and greet him a happy birthday."

The three second years sighed before turning to leave.

"Ah, we've come to the most troublesome." Kise said as he looked up at the Touo school building. "Knowing Aominecchi, he's probably at the rooftop having an afternoon nap."

"And knowing Aomine," Midorima adjusted his glasses, on his left hand was his lucky item, a tennis ball. "He would stubbornly refuse to come with us."

"That's why I have a back-up plan." Kagami said as he took out his phone and scanned his inbox. He stopped on one contact and pressed call.

"Hello?"

"Momoi-sa-"

"Kagami-kun! How are you? Oh, are you already here? Wait, I'm still convincing this stupid ganguro to come with us. Dai-chan, it's Kagami-kun! Hurry and get up, we still have to go and get Akakun and Mukkun!" Kagami could hear Momoi shout at the other end of the phone.

"What part of I'm not going don't you understand, Satsuki? Ha? It's too troublesome and I don't care if it's Akashi's birthday or Tetsu's- I'm not going!" Aomine replied, even though he was farther from the phone than Momoi, his voice was still louder. The Seirin ace had to hold it away from his ear.

"That's so terrible Dai-chan! I even bought a gift for him and everything! After all that's happened the least we can do is show up and-" The pink-haired manager argued.

"Ah? That's so stupid! Just leave me alone already, you stupid hag. If you want to go to Tetsu's party then go, I don't want to." There was the sound of Aomine turning his back on the ex-Teiko manager.

Silence.

"AOMINE YOU IDIOT!" Kise and Midorima flinched when they heard the sound of Aomine being hit. The Touo ace let out a cry of pain. There was several seconds of scolding and shouting before Momoi finally left the rooftop, crying lightly.

"I'm really sorry Kagami-kun, even though it's Tetsu-kun's birthday." Momoi hiccupped lightly. "I-I'll stay behind and try to convince him. We'll get there before it's too late."

"Ah, no, it's fine. Sorry for troubling you. Can I ask for one more thing?" Kagami said as he placed the phone next to his ear once he deemed it safe enough.

"Ah, sure, what is it?"

"Can you give me that bastard's number?"

Kuroko closed his eyes as the wind lightly ruffled his hair. Lunch time was nearly over and today was quieter than normal. The teen was starting to hate it.

"Arre? What are you doing here by yourself, Kuroko?" The ex-Teiko player turned in surprise.

"Tsuchida-senpai, hello." He bowed politely in his senior's direction. "I was just finishing my lunch." Tsuchida raised an eyebrow when he saw the thermos in the freshman's hand.

"Ha? Did you only bring some soup for lunch?" The rebound expert said in worry, "Didn't you buy any sandwich or onigiri?"

"Soup is enough." The phantom player said simply before he turned back to looking at the sky. Tsuchida shifted uncomfortably.

"I think that there're still some sandwiches back at the cafeteria. If you want, I can treat you to some." He offered to the first year but as expected Kuroko just shook his head, not even bothering to look back.

"It's enough."

"Ah…" Tsuchida said and then he sighed, "Well, I'll see you at practice later. Bye, Kuroko."

The first year froze not saying anything at first. The second year paused, wondering if the other had anything else to say.

You know, Kuroko was surprised by the voice that suddenly spoke at the back of his head. A younger version of him and his childhood friend, Shige, flashed in his mind. Important things like birthdays, they should be said out loud. In his memory, Shige gave him a kind smile, You can't expect everyone to read your mind like me, Tetsu.

"Senpai," Kuroko turned and Tsuchida froze. "Actually today is…"

No way! Is he going to tell me it's his birthday? I should act surprised! Tsuchida thought, But at least I can greet him now!

"T-Today is…?" Tsuchida repeated slowly.

It's no fun celebrating a birthday alone, Tetsu.

Kuroko blinked, his throat closing up. In his pocket, his phone felt heavier than usual. Even Momoi hadn't texted him, but then again, they could all have forgotten.

Celebrating by myself, really isn't good. But- Kuroko closed his mouth and found that he could use his voice again, In the end, I couldn't do it. I'm sorry.

"Today is... a really quiet day." Kuroko said instead as he turned back to look at the sky.

Tsuchida sighed both in relief and disappointment, "Ah, it is, isn't it?" He shifted on his foot, "A-Anyway, I have to get going. See you!"

"Bye, senpai." Kuroko finally answered and behind him, he heard the door close and the sound of footsteps going down the stairs. The phantom player buried his face in his arms.

"Wha-" Kagami said in surprise when he and the other two Generation of Miracles stepped onto the platform. Eh? "EHH?"

"Close your mouth Kagami Taiga, the look on your face isn't becoming." Akashi Seijuro said patiently as he, Murasakibara, and Himuro greeted the three at the station.

"Hello again, little brother." Himuro greeted the red-head with a smile.

Kise blinked in surprise while Midorima adjusted his glasses, "Akashicchi and Murasakibaracchi too? Wah! How did you know we were coming?"

"I texted them of course." Midorima said seriously, "I thought it would waste less of our time if I told Akashi what we were planning. He would text Murasakibara to get ready and when we arrive we could leave right away. The trip to from Tokyo and back takes too long for my taste."

"Smart decision as always, Shintaro." Akashi said in approval.

"Whoa! As expected of Midorimacchi! How smart!" Kise clapped in awe. "Anyway, we should hurry and get our tickets. Kasamatsu-senpai just texted me that the preparations are almost finished."

"Hm," Murasakibara swallowed the food in his mouth, "Arre? Mine-chin's not here?"

"Of course, Daiki's too hard-headed to come, like I expected. But then Satsuki is more hard-headed than him so we'll see at the end of the night if he won't come." The Rakuzan captain said, "Anyway, we already have our tickets, you three go get yours as well."

"Roger-ssu!" Kise said as he dragged Midorimacchi to the line and Kagami followed. Himuro offered to accompany them.

"I didn't expect you to be coming too, Tatsuya." The Seirin ace said to the Yosen ace who chuckled.

"Akashi-kun was worried that Atsushi would get lost if he tried to get back on his own, so I'm more like a chaperone actually." Himuro said with his usual smile. "And you? I wasn't expecting you to come all this way to get your two rivals for your new partner's birthday."

"It just happened." Kagami grumbled, "Besides, I was getting tired of seeing that ugly, depressed look on Kuroko's face."

"Oh? That's an interesting way of putting it." His acting older brother said, "You're still a softie, Taiga."

The red head sputtered, "Wha- I'm not!"

Himuro laughed again, "But I'm thankful you picked him, Taiga. It's because of him that we're still brothers right?"

"Picked," Kagami scoffed as he gripped the ring around his neck, "More like he forced himself on me. Suddenly saying stupid stuff about being a shadow and making me best in Japan." He grumbled.

"Eh, Kuroko-kun's pretty determined." The older of the two said, "Be sure to take good care of him, Taiga."

Kagami blinked at Himuro be for looking forward and saying, "Ah."

"Sorry guys, but it seems like practice has been canceled." Izuki said to the first years after he caught up to them on their way to the gym. "Hyuga went to properly accompany Kiyoshi to his check-up and Coach had to attend to some family issues. Koganei's still not finished with the errand so Mitobe's helping him. Tsuchida and I are on library duty."

"Ah, that's too bad senpai. I guess we're all going home early today." Kawahara shrugged.

"Well, at least we can go to Maji burger now." Fukuda bumped his shoulders with Kuroko who gave them a small smile. Izuki smiled at the trio before running off with a wave.

"We'll treat you this time, Kuroko!" Kawahara said as he led the way to the fast food they all frequented. "What do you want?"

"No, it's fine, actually I was planning to treat all of you-" Kuroko began to say but then Fukuda interrupted.

"No, no, let us do it! Think of it as an early pre- urgh!" Furihata hit Fukuda on the back.

"Ah, sorry, there was a bug on your back."

"Furihata, you-"

Ping!

All three phones of the trio freshmen beeped at the same time.

"Oh no," Kawahara sighed as he looked at anywhere but at Kuroko, trying to seem natural. "It seems like something came up."

"I'm sorry Kuroko but it seems like my mom needs help with something-" Fukuda started to ramble.

"You guys too, huh? I actually have to go pick up my sister from school." Furihata turned to the phantom basketball player who was looking at them with a carefully blank face. "Sorry, Kuroko, can you go ahead? I'm sure we won't take long and we'll just meet you there."

"Ah, I'm sure what my mom needs is nothing serious." Fukuda laughed uncertainly and Kawahara nodded, "Mine too."

"It's fine." Kuroko said but to him, his voice sounded far away. "We can just go tomorrow, it's no big deal."

"Ah no, just go now and wait for us there." Kawahara insisted and the two other freshmen nodded.

"Okay." Kuroko said blankly and the trio nodded before running off.

"I can't believe Koganei-senpai's bad timing!" Fukuda whispered to his friends as they ran to the direction of a nearby store. "He actually forgot to buy presents!"

"Actually, we forgot to buy presents for Kuroko too." Kawahara said sheepishly.

"Ah! Now that you mention it-"

"That's not important," Furihata sighed, "Do you think Kuroko will meet us there?"

"Eh? But he said he would, didn't he?"

"Yeah but-" Furihata looked back, "I'm not so sure he would."

"Somehow," Riko sweat dropped as she entered Maji Burger, "There are more people than I expected."

"Ah, Seirin's coach." Kasamatsu waved the woman over. "Sorry about this, that Kise just started sending out random invitations and well," The Kaijo captain sighed, "I guess this is the result."

Riko tried to hold back a sigh as she looked around at the reserved fast food joint. Takao was waving at Izuki who had just come in.

"Hey there Eagle-eyed man! The celebrant isn't here yet, I see. Don't worry about Shin-chan, I just texted him and he said they're on their way but they got delayed a bit, that's why they're late." Midorima's partner said with a grin.

"Only you and Midorima are coming?" Izuki asked in surprise.

"Eh, the seniors didn't want to impose. I mean look, the whole Kaijo team is here, plus the whole Seirin team, and then the Generation of Miracles- we didn't want you to feed a whole lot of mouths." Takao shrugged, "Besides, the seniors asked me to buy Kuroko a gift for them as a sorry for not being able to make it."

"Ah well, next time tell them they're welcome." Izuki said as he looked around. Thanks to Kaijo chipping in they managed to reserve the whole fast food joint for the party.

"The cake's finally done and the food and drinks are set out." Hyuga sighed in relief. "Now we're just waiting for Kuroko and the freshmen who are still buying his presents."

"Hm, Kuroko sure is taking his time, isn't he? I didn't think the walk to Maji burger was that long." Kiyoshi said.

"I hope nothing happened." Koganei said when he and Mitobe came out of the kitchen.

Riko looked out of the window, "I hope so too."

Ah, maybe it was too much… Kuroko thought as he walked down the street opposite Maji Burger. Maybe I asked for too much on my birthday, that's why it's turned out like this.

The freshman flipped his phone open and began to type out a text to Furihata and the others.

Gomenasai, but I'm not feeling so well. I don't think I'll be able to meet you at Maji Burger.

Kuroko pressed 'send' as his bangs covered his eyes. "In the end, I wasn't able to tell anyone at all."

"Tell anyone what?" The phantom player jumped in surprise and turned abruptly. Blue eyes widened when he caught sight of Kagami wearing the Seirin school uniform with his Seirin basketball jacket on top. His duffel was slung over his shoulder. He raised his eyebrow towards his partner, "Are you hiding something again, Kuroko? You really have to learn that not everyone can read your mind, you know. That's why important things have to be said out loud or no one would understand."

You know, important things like birthdays, they should be said out loud. You can't expect everyone to read your mind like me, Tetsu.

"Ah," Kuroko blinked, eyes wide. There was silence as he looked at Kagami's face before starting hesitantly, "Kagami-kun…"

Kagami looked at him patiently, "Yeah?"

The phantom player looked down hesitating again before breathing in deeply, "Yesterday, I asked you to hang out with me because I didn't want to celebrate by myself today. My parents couldn't make it and I wasn't sure if my old teammates would remember…" He took in another deep breath and gripped the hem of his shirt tightly. "…Would remember that today was my- my birthday."

There was silence as Kuroko continued to look at the ground in discomfort.

"I know." The bluenette looked up, surprised, into the grinning face of Kagami. "You've kept everybody waiting long enough, idiot." He extended a hand to the still surprised Kuroko. "Let's go."

"Oi, will everything turn out okay?" Fukuda asked worriedly when he realized that even after their errand, Kuroko was still not here.

Furihata flipped his phone closed and smiled, "It's okay, I already texted Kagami before we got here. If anyone could handle Kuroko, it's him." Akashi, who was off to the side with the rest of the Generation of Miracles, raised his eyebrows at what he heard.

"Guys! I see Kuroko!" Moriyama from Kaijo said, "Quick! Everyone get down!" Everyone did as they were told as they heard Kagami and Kuroko opening the door.

"You're too slow, geez!" Kagami grumbled as he pulled Kuroko inside.

"It's not my fault Kagami-kun is inhumanly fast." Kuroko answered in his usual deadpan. And then he paused, "Ah, Murasakibara-kun why are you hiding behind the register?"

Everyone hiding turned to look and sweat dropped. They didn't know how Kuroko could still call that hiding. The Yosen giant was kneeling behind the counter but his face could still be seen despite the fact that he was already bending.

"Ah, I got found out." Murasakibara said as he stood up. The staff looked up in awe at his height.

Kuroko blinked, beside him Kagami had face-palmed himself, "What's happening?"

Well I guess it's now or never. Riko gave everyone the signal.

"HAPPY BIRTHDAY KUROKO!" Everyone yelled and jumped out as Kasamatsu pulled on the confetti and Hyuga tugged down a banner that said 'Happy Happy Birthday Kuroko Tetsuya'.

Blue eyes widened as Kuroko took in the people cheering at him. He nearly jumped at the sudden yells. "This is-?"

"We're sorry we've been too busy to greet you properly, Kuroko." Koganei said as he sheepishly scratched the back of his head. "We had to organize a party for you on the spot, so yeah."

"Koganei-senpai, the errands?" The phantom player asked, surprised.

"Those were birthday errands." Riko corrected, "Though Mitobe had to help him out most of the time."

"Hey! It's not my fault the sugar and salt looked the same!" Koganei huffed as Mitobe chuckled silently.

"And the doctor thing wasn't true. That's why I was confused when you kept asking about that." Kiyoshi laughed as Hyuga sweat dropped.

"Daho."

"Everyone…" Kuroko said as he looked around. The Kaijo team gave him a thumbs-up and came up to greet him while patting him on the back enthusiastically.

Midorima sighed but then something caught his sight at the corner of his eyes. Without thinking about it, he made his way outside.

"Shin-chan?" Takao turned to look behind him just in time to see his teammate take the exit. Akashi noticed and he motioned for Murasakibara to grab Kise who yelped in shock.

"Oi." Two figures turned at the call that came from Midorima.

"Midorin!" Momoi said enthusiastically, "Aka-kun, Mukkun, and Ki-chan! See? I told you they'd all be here, Dai-chan! Now get in there and greet Tetsu-kun properly!" The manager huffed at her childhood friend.

"This is so stupid, if they're all here then what do you need me for?" Aomine said as he began to walk away.

"Dai-chan! Dai-chan get back here!" Momoi called out but the Touo ace continued to ignore her.

Midorima adjusted his glasses, "I guess it's time to put my lucky item to use."

Cancers, Virgos are incredibly hard-headed today. If you want to be heard, use your lucky item to get through to him!

With a form that would have placed professional baseball players to shame, the three-point expert twisted his body and threw the tennis ball right at Aomine's head.

"Ack!" Aomine fell forward at the sudden impact, landing face-first onto the pavement.

"Whoa! Nice hit Midorimacchi!" Kise gave the other a thumbs-up.

"Hmph." Midorima said as he adjusted his glasses.

"D-Dai-chan, are you okay?" Momoi was trying hard not to laugh and be sympathetic as she offered her hand.

Aomine turned to give Midorima a glare, "Midorima, you bastard-"

"Eh?" The Generation of Miracles and Momoi were startled. "Midorima-kun, Akashi-kun, Murasakibara-kun, Kise-kun, Momoi-san and…" Everyone looked at the Kuroko who looked stunned he stepped out of the restaurant. He had been drawn by the scene outside and did misdirection to escape the others inside. "Aomine-kun. You're all…?"

"Tetsu-kun!" The pink-haired manager greeted, getting over her shock. "Happy birthday! Are you surprised?" Momoi jumped excitedly as she rushed to the bluenette to give him a hug.

"A-Ah," Kuroko said and then choked, "Momoi-san, I can't breathe."

"Ah, gomen!"

"You can sound a little less surprised, Tetsuya. We came because we wanted to celebrate your birthday with you." Akashi said as he crossed his arms. "Is that so hard to believe?"

"Ah, I apologize." Kuroko said as he looked at his former teammates. "I saw Murasakibara-kun earlier but I thought he got lost like always. I actually thought everyone forgot about today."

There was silence.

"No way," Kise said shaking his head as he looked to the side, "How could we ever forget our precious teammate's birthday?"

The phantom player blinked in surprise at those words. "Kise-kun…" Then he looked at everyone's expression, blue eyes softening, "Everyone…"

Midorima adjusted his glasses as he extracted something from his pocket, "Here. It's your lucky item for next month."

Kuroko accepted it, "Midorima-kun…"

"Ah! We're giving presents now?" Murasakibara said thoughtfully as he extracted a bag of sweets from his pocket. "Here Kuro-chin, these are all my favorite vanilla-flavored candies."

"Thank you." Kuroko said but then he turned to Akashi when the former captain lightly patted his shoulder. Said redhead extended his own package.

"This isn't anything new. Actually, it's our middle school jersey, the one you left behind after the championship." Akashi said as he gave a paper bag to the bluenette. Kuroko peeked in and saw a carefully pressed and folded jersey. "I had it resized and washed so it would look new. You don't have to wear it. It's just a reminder to everyone that forgot that you were a part of the Generation of Miracles too."

Blue eyes widened at that, "That-"

"You're one of us, Tetsuya. I'm sorry if we ever forgot that." The ex-Teiko captain said quietly.

Momoi smiled softly at the scene. She and Kise exchanged looks and took out their own presents.

"Here Tetsu-kun/Kurokocchi." Kise and Momoi said at the same time.

"That's from me and Dai-chan," The pink-haired girl said happily, "We got it the other day, it's new basketball shoes for you. It should fit perfectly."

"I got you an autographed picture of me, so that whenever you want to see me you can- ack!" Midorima had hit Kise with another one of his lucky items (he had three tennis balls in his pocket). "I'm kidding! Just kidding! It's one of those rare, limited edition, mangas you liked! Geez, Midorimacchi, you didn't have to hit me so hard!"

"Quit whining." The three point shooter said. Kise sighed and Kuroko couldn't help but smile in amusement. Aomine had turned away with a small 'hmph'. Inside Maji burger the noises continued to grow.

The Generation of Miracles turned to the restaurant, momentarily having forgotten that a party was being celebrated in honor of their friend.

"You have to get back to your party, Testuya." Akashi finally said to the phantom player, "After all, everyone went to the trouble of preparing it for you. You should have fun." The he added as he looked at Murasakibara, "Atsushi, Tatsuya, and I have to get back home and it'll still be a long trip."

"You're leaving already?" Momoi asked in disappointment.

"We're leaving too Satsuki." Aomine said as he began to walk away.

"Eh? Dai-chan? But we just got here!" The only female in the group ran after her childhood friend. "Wait!"

Kuroko watched the Touo ace walking away. Breathing in slowly he said, "Aomine-kun." The tanned ace paused. "Thank you for the gift and for coming today. Momoi-san too."

There was silence again and Akashi sighed, "Daiki." He said in an admonishing tone.

Aomine grunted and raised a hand, "Ah, I get it." He grumbled and then he looked back sideways, "Tetsu, happy birthday."

Blue eyes widened as a strong wind blew, almost covering the whispered words. Even Momoi looked stunned for a moment before smiling and hooking her arm around Aomine's. "Saa, let's go Dai-chan. You still owe me an outing!"

"Oi! Don't get too close!"

"Mou, Dai-chan!"

The phantom player was shaken out of his daze when a huge hand ruffled his hair. Murasakibara. He was about to swap away the hand in annoyance but then he sighed and decided to let it slide. He looked up at Murasakibara who was looking down at him.

"We'll see you next time, Kuro-chin." He said just as Himuro came out of the restaurant.

"I got your text, shall we go?" Himuro smiled and then he turned to Kuroko. "Happy Birthday, Kuroko-kun." He said in English.

"Thank you." Kuroko replied in kind.

"Until next time Akashicchi, Murasakibaracchi!" Kise said to the two.

"It was nice seeing you again, Ryouta, Shintarou, and especially you, Tetsuya." Akashi said to his former teammates. "Let's go." He said as he walked to the direction of the station.

Midorima nodded his head in acknowledgment at the ex-captain before going inside to stop Takao from whatever he was planning.

"Saa, shall we go back inside, Kurokocchi?"Kise said with a smile as he extended his hand.

"I'm sorry," Kuroko began to say to Kise's confusion, "But before we go inside, I have one question."

The model blinked before laughing, "You don't have to be so formal about it. Sure, ask away."

"I don't think you all came of your own free will, is that correct?" The Generation of Miracles' sixth man asked. Kise nodded, "Then everyone in Seirin-"

"Ah, no. Seirin was busy enough with your party to have the time to get us together. Actually, I think he called this a 'solo mission' and from what I heard he suggested it himself." Kise chuckled, "It's pretty amazing actually, he even got Aominecchi to come in the end, although I don't know how."

"He?"

"Kagamicchi, of course!"

"Hmph." Aomine huffed as he crossed his arms.

"Dai-chan, are you cold?" Momoi asked curiously.

"No, just annoyed. That idiot has guts." The Touo ace said as a vein popped on his forehead.

"That idiot?" The manager tilted her head, "Are you talking about Kise-kun?"

"Nah."

"Mou, Dai-chan, stop being so vague!"

In Aomine's pocket, a certain message was yet to be deleted from his inbox, a message from a certain red-haired Seirin ace.

You're a coward. If you don't come, I'll tell Kuroko that it was you who told me it was his birthday.

"Che." Aomine said but then he smirked, "That moron. He better be a good partner to him."

"Kagami…" Kuroko turned to look into the fast food joint where a certain light was devouring about fifty burgers. "…kun?"

"Yeah!" Kise smiled. "He said that he was tired of seeing that depressed look on your face. He even told Himuro-senpai that he'd take care of you! Kagamicchi is so sweet! He's like a knight in shining armor! You should have seen how he convinced Midorimacchi to come here. He even scolded me saying that 'you're letting the past destroy Kuroko's birthday'!"

The shadow's mouth opened and closed, not knowing what to say. Thankfully, Kise didn't seem to notice.

"And even after traveling so far to get all of us together, he still decided to get you a gift! He was in a hurry to get back but he made us stop by at a store to get- Ah, but he'll give it to you later, so I can't tell you, it'll ruin the surprise-" The model turned to his mentor but then paused, eyes wide. "Kurokocchi? Eh?" Then Kise panicked, "Eh? Why is your face so red? Are you getting sick? Kurokocchi!"

Kuroko shook his head, looking through his bangs and at his partner. Kagami paused from his eating and met Kuroko's gaze as though he sensed it. Blue eyes widened as the light gave him a thumbs up with a bright grin.

Oh.

The phantom player covered the flushed lower half of his face as Kise continued to ask him if he was alright.

This looked like the start of something troublesome.

FIN