Chapter 1: Graduation

A female homeroom teacher was standing together with her dear students, occasionally wiping away tears of joy. It had been a rough year. It was the time to let go another year of students. They had been prepared for this moment. And many of their peers would go on their separate paths. For their own future. And the dreams they long for. Every one of them appreciated the time they spent during their three years of high school. Sad things, happy things; they made into who they were today. Among the students that would be leaving the grounds of the school were three exceptional geniuses. The uprising basketball genius, Aomine Daiki; a renowned actor and model, Kise Ryouta; and their childhood friend, the silent artist, Kuroko Tetsuya.

“C’mon, Kurokocchi! Just this once!”

The owner of the voice spoke. His voice was loud, infuriating and was a nuisance. He had an appearance that attracted intermittent public attention, much to his boyfriend’s displeasure. Much like his name, he had golden hair. Due to his work as an actor and a model, he often walked around in lavish designer clothes with dazzling pheromones. It often caused his boyfriend, Aomine, and their childhood friend, Kuroko, a great number of misfortunes.

His boyfriend had a soft tuft of navy-blue hair. He was a total opposite of his dazzling boyfriend. He was often seen wearing sweaters and jeans. A basketball junkie and was extremely talented at it. His skills had stirred commotion of his own due to his breathtaking skills and magnificent play. A national-class player at such a young age was unheard of. Kise had often teased his boyfriend during their school years together. The pair definitely would miss the good times they were together. Their childhood friend that would be leaving their care soon, it was their greatest regret.

The poor childhood friend of theirs had sighed. It must have been fate that the trio were stuck together since their elementary school days. Whispers were on their trails as the pair dragged their childhood friend along the busy streets as they bantered without a care in the world. At times they were infuriating. At times they bring exuberance. Despite everything, the promising stars were his dear friends. This was the beginning of the young artist’s university life, and signalling the end of his peaceful days.

It was one evening when his childhood friends, Aomine Daiki and Kise Ryouta had showed up at his doorstep. Kuroko’s home was an apartment which he had lived alone since that incident during their elementary school years. No questioning and security guards, Aomine and Kise had sneaked into Kuroko’s floor. Kuroko’s childhood friends were a perfect manifestation, analogous to a maelstrom that comes and goes like a stray cat. Kuroko recalled only a few days ago they had their high school graduation ceremony. Impatient as they were, Aomine and Kise had dragged Kuroko onto the busy streets. They were gigantic morons that did everything at their own pace. And poor Kuroko was left to tolerate and suffer at the hands of his two childhood friends despite his protests. They were inseparable.

Panting and huffing, he had reluctantly trudged after his childhood friends. Kuroko had found himself standing on the grounds of the questionable cafe Aomine and Kise frequents. It didn’t take them long before Kuroko found himself inside the shady teahouse. He was pulled into a seat at a long table which was connected to the bartender station. The blast of the music was tremendous that Kuroko could hear even distance away from its source. Kuroko could tell with one glance. Ah, it's that kind of place. Afterall, he wasn’t an idiot.

Kuroko sighed. It was a pub.

“Give it up, Tetsu!” Aomine grinned. “Relax! You deserve a break. It's your hard-earned freedom.” You're powerless against Ryouta's antics, Tetsu. Not once, since our first meeting.  He shoved an alcoholic drink into Kuroko’s pale, delicate hands. Kuroko stared at the drink placed in his hands. It was a cider. Kuroko was appalled. Never in his wildest dreams he would find himself sitting in a pub. He stared at the sake that his friends had ordered, for the fun of infuriating Kuroko. After all, pubs have a reputation of their own.

The appearance of the pub was extremely impressive and resplendent. Kuroko was surprised that his moronic friends had found such a magnificent pub hiding in a corner of the streets. It was shrouded by long rows of tea houses and confectioneries. The location of the street was away from the eyes of the public, and it was barely filled with people during the day. Its name was meticulously carved by veteran professionals. The intricate design was adorned on the refined wooden mahogany banner. It was evidence that indicated had customers arrived at the established destination.

"Good evening, Kise-kun, Aomine-kun!" The bartender waved at them. His face lit up at the sight of his regular customers. "You're here again."

Aomine and Kise waved to the bartender. “Yo, Tatsuya. Are you on duty today?”

Kuroko observed the interaction they shared. The bartender named Tatsuya had a foreign accent. He had a Stygian-colored hair that fell over his left eye and a mole below his right eye. He was wiping the glasses at his station before Aomine and Kise had walked into the bar that was dim-lit with lamps and candles. The fragrance was comforting, and smelled like home. It was the smell of vanilla, Kuroko realized. It was Kuroko’s favourite scent.

“That's right. Atsushi won’t be here until later tonight.” It was only a little past dinnertime. Tatsuya examined Kuroko with a new surge of curiosity. “And? Who is this? An interesting person who have here. What’s your name?” He possesses the observant eyes of a detective. Deliberately, meticulously and silently gathering pieces of evidence he could learn about the newcomer Aomine and Kise had brought.

Kuroko fidgeted in his seat, his delicate and slender hands were nervous from the growing trepidation of anxiety. Tatsuya sighed. “It’s fine if you don’t want to answer. Just relax. This is that kind of place.” I pity the child those animals had harassed into coming. He gave one last stare at the trio and winked at Kuroko before leaving the trio to themselves. Aomine and Kise wore an expression that says I don't know what you're talking about. He resumed his duties and busied himself with orders from his customers. Aomine and Kise vigorously nodded, completely agreeing with Tatsuya.

“Aominecchi! Let’s dance!”

Kise dragged Aomine onto the dance floor. Kuroko was left alone to fend for himself in a den of wolves. Kuroko sighed, debating to himself that he should ditch his so-called buddies or wait for them to be done. His best friends were species of the same world, possessing the same momentum. After all, they were a couple that could put up with each other’s preposterousness. They had often spoken of ridiculous schemes with great confidence, much to their teachers’ dismay and distaste. Kuroko only had himself to blame. Even after walking on one of his best friends’ tryst sessions during middle school, he had never learnt his lesson. He should have protested with all his might, despite being constantly swept away at their pace.

A customer of the bar walked through the grand entrance and settled himself in the seat next to Kuroko. He had striking features Kuroko had considered as breathtaking. He was dressed in a suit, and a black coat. Subconsciously, he had felt that this man before him was a special existence. He possessed vermillion-colored hair, and the most alluring facial features Kuroko had ever seen. Before he could stop himself, his mind was filled with thoughts of the man before him. An extremely observant person like Kuroko was broken down. His mind had gone blank.

“A martini please,”

The new arrival had made his order. The bartender gave the red-head customer a gentle grin. The growing feelings exploded from the depths of Kuroko’s heart which he harbored within that small body of his was tinkling, hazy and mysterious. The tone of his voice was gentle and enticing. Kuroko felt this man was similar to that man of his distant past. It had been over twenty years. He should possess a matching appearance like the man before him if they were to reunite once again. Kuroko shook his head. What’s the point of recalling a man whose face I can’t even remember? Kuroko noted that he must have been from a distinguished background.

For a brief moment, their eyes met. Kuroko blushed, the erubescent colored tinted the surface of his cheeks. Kuroko found himself staring at the man before turning away, trying his best to ignore the stranger. The red-head found himself chuckling at the sight of the little child. He had found Kuroko’s expressions extremely amusing, and adorable.

“You seem lost. Can I buy you a drink?”

Kuroko turned around, astonished at the red-head’s words. The man had asked, staring into Kuroko’s blank expression. Kuroko was puzzled. For the first time, he was overwhelmed by the red-head’s aura. His invisibility which had often worked on people, even his best friends occasionally had trouble looking for him was breaking down. His skills were deemed useless before the eyes of this mysterious man. He had easily tore down the unyielding walls Kuroko had built around himself. Kuroko’s intuition had felt that this man was different.

“Why would you do that?”

The man had hummed. “If I were to answer, maybe I was entranced by you? You don't seem the type to come here alone.” He gave Kuroko a gentle smile. “This must be fate. Because I get to meet such a beautiful person today.”

Kuroko had flushed, had turned away from embarrassment. The growing heat burning through the surface of his cheeks were becoming more evident and real. He knows better than taking a stranger’s words to heart. The growing feelings kept at bay was beyond his restraints. “We just met. Do you say that to every stranger you come across?”

The red-head chuckled. “Then, would you agree if I gave you my name?”

Kuroko huffed, took a sip from the cider Aomine had shoved into his delicate hands. “I’ll think about it.”

“My name is Akashi Seijuurou.” The red-head replied. “Does that meet your requirements, my princess?”

“Kuroko Tetsuya.”

Kuroko gave his name. He had found it extremely unpleasant with the red-head’s amicable complying behaviours. Kuroko clicked his tongue. It was his loss. The pale lips of the man named Akashi had curved into a smirk. His long arms extended, the palms of his hands began caressing Kuroko’s burning cheeks and fallen strands of his pastel cerulean hair. It was Akashi’s victory.

“You look beautiful tonight, Tetsuya-kun.” Akashi had a gentle smile etched upon his alluring expressions. He leaned nearer to Kuroko, invading Kuroko’s comfort zone and slowly closing the gap between them. “It’s such a pity that you’re left alone in a wolf’s den.” They were barely millimeters away from each other. Kuroko could feel Akashi’s breath tingling down the pale skin of his neck.

Kuroko protested against Akashi’s advances. He pushed his slender and pale hands against Akashi’s broad chest. Kuroko tried his best, and resisted Akashi's advances with all his might. It had appeared to be impossible, with a delicate body Kuroko possessed.

“I don’t know what you’re talking about,” Kuroko muttered, expertly avoiding Akashi’s intense stare like a second nature. Akashi had to admit that Kuroko’s name had sounded familiar. He had a slight frown, the sudden inability to recall the origin of the family name ‘Kuroko’. It felt like home.

“Hoho, is that so?”

Akashi was amused. He gradually closed the proximity between them, caressing Kuroko’s pale, sensitive skin. Akashi’s slender fingers trailed along Kuroko’s collarbone to the nape of his neck, and finally pulling Kuroko into a passionate kiss. Kuroko shivered from the foreign touch of the stranger before him. The trepidation of stirring his mind into a mess. Kuroko felt that he was weak at dealing with people like Akashi. He was bad at dealing with that type of person. He gently bit Kuroko's lip, making him gasp and moan in surprise, granting him entrance into his territory. Their tongues had battled for dominance, Akashi undoubtedly had been victorious of their battle. He explored every nook and cranny of Kuroko's moist cavern, stirring pleasures within. It was then when Akashi had released his grasp on Kuroko, Kuroko was breathing hard, gasping entailing the sudden lack of air.

Kuroko was powerless against Akashi. Being granted the fleeting pleasure, Kuroko capitulated to Akashi’s wishes. Kuroko melted under the gentle touch of his captor. His touch had felt familiar. Although it was foreign, Kuroko felt the evident warmth. It brought back memories of the distant past. Kuroko decided it was just a coincidence. A promise of the distant past, he was certain that boy would have forgotten about it. After all, it has been many years.

“This is my number. Please contact me.”

Akashi had grabbed Kuroko’s smartphone from the table and registered his own contact number into Kuroko’s electronic device. He returned Kuroko’s smartphone with a victorious smirk etched on his face. Akashi released Kuroko from his grasps, the crimson dress shirt and black blazer disappearing into the crowd of people. Kuroko watched as Akashi’s figure slowly vanished from sight. He recalled his last words before leaving his side.

“We’ll definitely see each other again, Tetsuya.”

Kuroko was plunged into a daze, his electronic device was still tightly clutched in his delicate palms. His mind was disoriented, entranced by the strange man. Kuroko’s mechanisms fought to the best of its ability, registering the events that had happened during the past few minutes ago. Kise and Aomine who had returned from the dance floor had witnessed the events that had happened before their eyes. Aomine was astounded. Kise was frozen from shock.

“Kurokocchi~” Kise had gasped, wailing and failing his hands.

Aomine had an iron grip on his tacky boyfriend, shaking his head. The pair observed their dear childhood friend from a distance. They had found the sight of a flushed Kuroko adorable, and endearing. It was as if Kuroko had allowed that upon himself. Aomine can’t shake off the feeling that the red-head had seemed awfully familiar. Despite himself drowning in deep thoughts, Kise was wailing and crying his eyes out.

“Aominecchi~! Kurokocchi has been defiled! Our dear, innocent Kurokocchi!” Kise’s waterfall crocodile tears percolating down his smooth skin.

“Calm down, Ryouta.”

Aomine had sighed, a hand patting on Kise’s silky, golden hair. Kise was startled. The times Aomine had called by his given name was scarce. Aomine made his way towards Kuroko after making sure the red-head had left, and his boyfriend had settled down, completely sober from being overexcited over the tiniest details.

“Congratz on being laid, Tetsu.” Aomine offered his congratulations, winked at Kuroko. As sarcastic as Aomine had sounded, they knew Aomine cared deeply for his friends. Startled by Aomine’s words, Kuroko snapped from being dazed.

“Wha- what?” Kuroko’s voice cracked.

Aomine sighed. Their childhood friend was completely broken. Aomine wondered what kind of spell he had casted. He was exceptionally capable, to the point of breaking the apathetic Kuroko from his shell of comfort zone. Kise jumped onto Kuroko.

“Kurokocchi~”

“You’re heavy, Kise-kun. Let’s go home. I’m tired.” Kuroko’s inscrutable voice returned.

“What happened back there?” Aomine asked as they made their way home.

 Kuroko shook his head. “I don't know. It seemed like I was dazed for a moment. That man might be really special. I have a feeling I might see him again.” That night, he lay on his bed staring at Akashi’s number on his smartphone. It had given him an unsettling feeling. He could not shake off the feeling that it would be the beginning of a storm. Little did he realize the storm would come through earlier than he had expected. It came when he had least expected it.

Kuroko woke up the next morning, took a quick glance at his alarm clock. It read: 7: 49 AM. Kuroko's eyes widened in horror and dismay. He had overslept. He was gonna be late. He jumped off his bed, brushed his teeth, took a quick shower and threw on his clothes. Today was an important day which he could not afford to be late. Just as he ran into his designated classroom, the bell had just chimed, his professor was already in the classroom, about to begin class. Panting and huffing at the entrance, Kuroko felt the trepidation stirring as he saw his professor figure standing before him.

 “I’m sorry, sir!” He bowed down, apologizing to the professor. “This won’t happen again.”

“I see, late by half a minute on your first day, Kuroko Tetsuya-kun. Well, since it’s your first day, you’re forgiven. See me after class, Kuroko Tetsuya-kun.””

The professor’s deep, gentle voice had spoken. Kuroko blinked. Huh? That voice… He looked up, sure enough, it was the man who had enticed and kissed him last night. Kuroko had complied and nodded, heading to an empty seat near the window. He felt the eyes of his peers were following his small figure, the feelings of awkwardness and humiliation growing deep inside him.

Kuroko slowly took out his materials and stationery, his mind still heavy and astounded from his professor’s words. He shook his head, putting his jumbled thoughts aside… for now. He had to focus on the lecture, although the professor for his class appears to be someone he could have never have imagined. He began taking notes of the lecture content and his assignment tasks for the semester. Kuroko had a hard time grasping the fact that he was the instructor for his class. The far-fetched idea of the beginning of his relationship with his professor was a promiscuity. His reputation would be in shambles if anyone would have discovered the little secret they both shared.

Kuroko’s fear was transformed into reality. That man was his professor for the semester. Professor Akashi Seijuurou.

Chapter 2: Arranged marriage

 “We’ll stop here today. See you next Tuesday.”

Kuroko sighed. It was a long two-hour lecture. He had eagerly dreaded for time to approach the moment that signifies the end of the lecture. The professor had announced as the last bell chimed. His first day was finally over. So much for being a college freshman. He gathered his things and headed for the door. His professor’s sharp eyes would not allow it.

“Kuroko Tetsuya-kun. Where are you going?” His professor had asked, the underlying meanings of his words running deep. Kuroko had groaned, slapped a hand across his face. He is screwed. He sighed and turned back, walked down the stairs to the corner of the lecture hall where the teacher’s desk was.

 “Is there anything you need, Professor Akashi?” Kuroko’s inscrutable personality returned, making it extremely challenging for the other party to decrypt the chaotic thoughts that were running corybantic deep within his mind. Kuroko internally prayed for an escape route. With the history between them, Kuroko wanted nothing to do with his professor.

 Akashi began to speak after everyone had left the hall. Only the both of them were left in the capacious lecture hall. “You can’t pretend nothing happened, Tetsuya. It’s such a surprise you’re a student at this university, and a student from my class. It seems like my efforts were futile. I look forward to getting to know you, Kuroko Tetsuya-kun.” He had smirked, leaning closer towards Kuroko. There was sarcasm evident in the tone of his professor’s voice. “You’ll be surprised what the future entails. I promised we’ll meet each other again, but I have no idea we would meet again like this so soon. Fate is such a amusing thing.”

“I didn’t know the man who kissed me was my professor either. What an astounding surprise.” Kuroko agreed. “If you have nothing else to say, I’ll be taking my leave. See you next Tuesday, Professor Akashi.” Kuroko sighed. His personality and demeanor was apathetic as ever. Kuroko’s voice was icy cold than ever.

 Akashi had smirked, watching Kuroko’s small figure leaving the hall. Things are going to be much more interesting. There will be no escape, the predative eyes of the great Akashi Seijuurou would make sure of that. Akashi found it interesting messing with the person named Kuroko Tetsuya.

Kuroko was sprawled on the sparkling clean table in the cafeteria he shared with Kagami, Aomine and Kise. It was lunch time. Kagami was busy wolfing down burgers like a squirrel. “What happened? Don’t you like vanilla shake?” Aomine asked, eyeing the cup of vanilla shake his boyfriend had bought for Kurokocchi.

 Kuroko had sighed. “That’s not it, Aomine-kun.” Kuroko groaned. “The universe hates me.”

“What are you so depressed about?” Kagami had asked, through mouthfuls of burgers. “It’s only the first day. Did you realize you had entered the wrong choice?”

“Remember yesterday I said I had a bad feeling?” Kuroko said. “And I might see him again?” Kise and Aomine nodded vigorously, waiting for their friend to spill the beans. “Well, I did see him again. He was my professor.” Kuroko buried his face into the table again. Kagami was totally clueless what had happened as he was busy with his basketball training. Aomine was an exception. It was simple. He skipped practice.

“Say…. WHAT?!” Aomine and Kise echoed simultaneously. Aomine grinned and Kise was laughing his eyes out.

“That's...certainly something to be worried about.” Aomine commented. “But can’t you escape, since you’re always invisible and go under the radar?”

 Kuroko sighed. “It’s not funny, Aomine-kun. It’s too late. He recognized me.”

Kagami had choked on his food. “What? How?”

“I wonder too,” Kuroko groaned into the table. He remembered Akashi had noticed his weak presence at a first glance too. It was mysterious. Kuroko was still moping on his way back home after saying goodbye to his friends. He still could not wrap the idea that the man he had met last night was his professor.

Kuroko made his way home after classes had ended. He waved goodbye to his best friends. Aomine and Kagami went for their basketball practice, and Kise had another fashion magazine photoshoot scheduled by his manager. His friends had a busy day. Kuroko felt he should not be disturbing them, and thus he decided he should go home and get some rest. Kuroko lived in a small apartment alone which was twenty minutes by foot. Aomine and Kise used to fuss about and was worried about Kuroko living alone. This was an apartment which he had been living in since he had moved out of his parents’ home in elementary school after the big incident happened.

It wasn’t anything lavish. It was a place just right for people like Kuroko. An average Japanese student. Kuroko found two people outside his home as he approached his apartment door. Kuroko lived on the third floor. Kuroko frowned as he identified the faces of people that had been waiting for him. They had matching features and possessed similar appearances. There was a man dressed in a suit and a refined lady who wore sparkling jewelries. One glance anyone would know they come from a distinguished family background.

“What are you doing here?” Kuroko’s voice was cold as ice. The tone of his voice was deadly.

“It is also your duty as the son of the Kuroko family, Tetsuya.” The lady reprimanded. The couple were his parents. Kuroko’s apathetic stare pierced through the couple. They were Kuroko’s parents. Kuroko guessed they must have deliberately picked a time when he was alone. Aomine and Kise often worked together as Kuroko’s bodyguards since that incident during their elementary school years. Parents who don’t care for their children were trash. They were the worst kind of parents. They cared for the family name, money and fame. Their youngest son who refused to become their tool, was neglected and abandoned. He was stomped underfoot.

Kuroko unlocked the doors of his apartment. His parents followed him into the apartment. Kuroko sighed as he put down his bag in a corner. The apartment wasn’t small. It wasn’t extravagant either. It was an average home for a typical university student. His parents frowned at the state of Kuroko’s home.

“Is this the place you’ve been staying in? Hmph. Serves you right. It’s a dump for losers like you.” His father sneered.

Kuroko glared at the couple. “I don’t recall inviting you both into my home. I am no longer tied to the Kuroko family. Please get out.”

His mother huffed. “This is a promise made to the Akashi family years ago.” She handed Kuroko a contract. Kuroko frowned at the papers. He had a bad feeling. “It is exactly what it is. Don’t be late. Your father will pick you up tomorrow evening. Don’t you dare escape. Who knows what will happen to Chihiro if you disobey my words. It’s your last duty, Tetsuya.” His parents left the apartment, leaving the evidence of their presence behind. The evidence that reminded Kuroko he was once a child of the Kuroko family.

Kuroko could not believe the words of his own parents. Even after so many years, they never changed. He was getting sold to another family. Getting enraged at them will not change the situation. Kuroko sighed. He stepped into the bathroom and turned on the water. Warm water trickled down as he splashed himself with water. After he was cleaned and dressed in a fresh pair of clothes, he took out his books and spread them on his work table. He began working on his assignments his instructors had given during the lectures.

Kuroko sighed as he thought of Professor Akashi. It gave him unsettling trepidations. It was a little past dinner time when Kuroko was done with his assignments and reports. He tidied and kept his books into his bag, and pulled out a pastel cerulean file from one of the shelves in his work room. Kuroko pulled the file open, revealing its contents. They were music sheets and manuscripts, written by Kuroko himself.

The front door bell rang. Kuroko heard a loud click, evident that someone else had invited himself into Kuroko’s apartment. Kuroko rose from his chair, finding a young man in his early twenties standing in the middle of his hallway. Kuroko scowled at him.

“Geez, what are you doing at the front entrance, Izuki-kun? Stop that habit of ringing my doorbell. Afterall, you have my spare key.”

The man named Izuki grinned. “Just felt like it.” Kuroko sighed. “Are you ready? We should get going soon.” Izuki reminded Kuroko. Kuroko nodded. He went back to his work room, grabbed his pastel cerulean file, stuffing them into his messenger bag and his coat which was hanging at the doorway.

“Let’s go.”

Kuroko was dressed in a slightly oversized white shirt and black tights. A black coat was worn over his petite shoulders. The pair got into a white car parked just outside the guardhouse. It was as if the driver had been waiting for Kuroko. Kuroko had a solemn expression as they travelled to their destination. Although his comrades were not experts in reading people like Kuroko, Izuki handles it well enough for him to understand something must have happened to his family, again.

“What happened this time, Kuroko?” Izuki had asked.

Kuroko shook his head. “It’s alright, Izuki. I’ll handle it on my own. I’m not a child anymore. Besides, that childish level of blackmail isn’t enough to bring me down.” He gave Izuki a gentle smile. “Don’t we have more important things to do tonight?” The driver maneuvered through the heavy traffic, finally reaching their final destination. It was a stadium which a certain artist often performs onstage. The driver drove in through the back entrance to avoid unnecessary attention from fans and the audience.

Upon getting out of the car, Kuroko was ambushed by his comrades. He was pulled into a bear hug. The contentment of joy at the sight of Kuroko was evident. The driver was the last to get out of the car. He sighed. “Stop doing that every single time. Kuroko is getting sandwiched.”

A woman had a terrifying grin sneaked behind the group. She appeared to be in her early twenties, just like the members of the group. She was dressed in formal clothes, a name tag was attached to her  coat. It read: Aida Riko. “What…. Are…. you… People…. Doing…. Go get ready!”  The members froze at the sight of her.

“Yes, ma’am!” They scurried and scrambled into their respective dressing rooms. Kuroko sighed, making way to his own dressing room.  Izuki chuckled at the terrified faces of his friends. He was amused. Aida glanced at Izuki.

“How was it?” She asked Izuki. Izuki sighed, shaking his head. His reaction was more than enough evidence. She had to make plans. Soon. More than anything, they were terrified of Kuroko’s safety. Kuroko was the only child that was still underage under their care. His eighteenth birthday was encroaching upon them. With the knowledge of Kuroko’s  twisted parents’ history, misfortune will definitely greet Kuroko’s coming of age. After all, Kuroko was deeply loved. By the people he could call friends.

Akashi stared at the countless people gathered in the stadium. He was invited by his peers, the sons of his father’s shareholders. The son of a renowned cardiac surgeon, Midorima Shintarou; son of a famous chef, Murasakibara Atsushi; and the son of the famed fashion designer, Kise Ryouhei. Ryouhei had reserved VIP seats, and had invited his peers to view the concert of a genius artist. Ryouhei passed his peers a poster of a musical band. Their name was [Seirin]. The pastel cerulean hair of their vocal singer caught Akashi’s eye. His identity and personal data were concealed. Akashi had found it strange, since he was the only performer in the band who donned a masquerade mask.

The color of the hair reminded him of the person he fell in love. Albeit it was a fleeting moment, Akashi was sure of his feelings. It was love at first sight. It was fate that he had met him as an equal, not as a student of his class. Akashi felt the vocal singer striked extreme resemblance to the person he had fallen in love with. He was reminded of the person named Kuroko Tetsuya. He observed from his seat as the concert started. His peers were creeped out by Akashi’s odd behaviour. For the first time, Akashi said nothing about Kise’s unnecessary behaviours. Akashi silently watched the splendid performance. His peers exchanged glances. Akashi was drawn to the vocal singer’s voice. For some reason, he had felt that his soul was captivated by the gentle voice.

“He’s not mad?” Kise whispered. His peers shrugged, clueless of the underlying reasons for Akashi’s strange behaviour.

Akashi was still in a daze even after his chauffeur had brought Akashi and his peers home. Upon stepping foot into his home, he was greeted by his father. His father was home, for a change. Newspaper was clutched in his hands, and a cup of hot coffee was served in front of him. It was rare that the master of the Akashi family would be home. He was not the type of person to be bothered with his own son’s well-being.

“You’re back, Seijuurou.” His father spoke.

“You’re here, Father. To what I owe this grace?” Akashi replied, taking a seat at the table. He laid his blazer on an empty chair. His father took out a file, displaying it before Akashi’s eyes. Akashi took glances of his father. His father was a renowned businessman whose name was notorious worldwide. Akashi Masaomi. He was the sole person who established the Rakuzan University, which shareholders and its board members show their connection to Akashi Corporate, the pillar of the conglomerate company. “This is?”

“Seijuurou. I once made a promise to an old friend, you see. My friend seemed to be troubled with his youngest son.” Masaomi sighed. “His son was just an innocent child. I’m not sure what I should do…..”

Akashi flipped through the contract. The picture and the name had caught Akashi’s eye. Akashi slammed his palms onto the mahogany table. There it was. A picture of Kuroko Tetsuya. “Father, you friend….” Akashi began. His father nodded.

“Yes, the current master of the Kuroko family. Kuroko Tetsurou.” The disassembled pieces puzzles fell into their rightful place. “First of all, you will meet his son tomorrow night. It may be outrageous, but this child is going to become your betrothed.”

Akashi had a solemn expression. There was not a hint of hesitation. “I understand, Father.”

Masaomi and the servants watched Akashi retire to his room without the slightest idea Akashi was thinking. Akashi’s behaviour was extremely odd that night. Making sure he was alone in his room without any interference, he locked his door. A smile was carved onto his thin lips. A golden opportunity has presented itself before his eyes. His plan has escalated quicker beyond his expectations. Such a perfect strategy!

The next day, Akashi walked into the lecture hall with his books in his arm. He had noted Kuroko was chuckling softly every now and then among the uprising stars of Japan. Akashi recognized the identities of Kuroko’s closest friends. After all, their families were closely connected. Aomine Daiki and Kise Ryouta. Kuroko spent his hours in a daze. Despite the extremely overexcited friends bantering with a Kuroko sandwiched in between, Kuroko wasn’t bothered at all. It was as if Kuroko was used to dealing with them.

I wonder what he would say if he knew? Akashi was deep in thought every time he walked past Kuroko. In the hallways, cafeterias, lecture halls, club activities….. Kuroko was disoriented. The long hours spent for lectures, presentations and club activities were finally over. Akashi glanced at the sunset from his office. It was another ordeal. Stiffening, and tiring. Kuroko and Akashi respectively attempted to circumvent crossing paths.

Kuroko sighed as he made his way into his apartment. He took off his shoes and placed them neatly on the shoe rack at the entrance. It was an extremely taxing day. He had found it difficult to face Professor Akashi after everything had happened. With Aomine and Kise, he had put on a facade and pretended nothing was out of ordinary. He glanced at the clock hanging on the pale-colored walls. The clock had just struck five. He placed his bag at the foot of the couch and threw himself onto the soft cushions. They’ll be coming, he thought bitterly.

Kuroko reluctantly dragged himself into the bath. Sighing for the umpteenth time, he pulled out a fresh pair of long shirt and skinny slacks. By the time he was done dressing, the doorbell rang. Kuroko light footsteps turned around, grabbing his phone and wallet from his dresser before unlocking the front door. Kuroko's apathetic stare pierced through the pathetic selves of the visitors. They were Kuroko’s birth parents who had paid him an unexpected visit last night.

“Are you ready?” His mother sneered. Kuroko’s deadpan expression was void of emotions. She scrutinized Kuroko’s appearance from head-to-toe. “Hmph. And here you are, dressed like that again. Are you really a boy?”

“Stop it, Kyoko. We’ll be late soon.” Kuroko’s father intervened. “Let’s go.”

Kyoko clicked her tongue. “Fine. After all, today is the last day you’ll be seeing this boy. He really looks more and more like her. That witch! It’s so disgusting!” She sneered at Kuroko. “I’m thrilled that his successor will finally be claiming this boy.”

The three of them travelled in silence. The car halted in front of an extravagant teahouse. Kuroko was kicked onto the streets. “Get in there.” His mother wore a look as if Kuroko was a cursed blasphemy. It was analogous to washing filth off her hands. His father had a firm hold on Kuroko’s hands. Kyoko stared hard at her husband. Make sure you get it done.* I await for your good results.* She huffed and winded the tinted window.

“Drive,” Kyoko told the driver, leaving Kuroko and his father in the dust.

The father-and-son stepped foot into the premises, a tuft of vermillion-colored hair was caught within the range of his sight. The recherché color had captured his attention. That color had reminded Kuroko of the person who had possessed the same unusual colors. It gave him a tiny warmth of security.

“Father, where is he?” Kuroko questioned impatiently. He had no patience for his parents’ pathetic plans.

“Why, he is in front of your eyes.” was his father’s prompt reply. Kuroko stared at the person before him. His thoughts had wafted into a world of his own again, had failed to notice he had been dragged along by his father. He stared at the man who will soon become his husband. He was staring into the triumph and confident expression of the man whose identity he recognized. The fears and thoughts that had accompanied with a transient glimpse of that vermillion-colored hair had transformed into reality.

The man named Akashi Seijuurou.

Chapter 3: The lost legacy

It felt like hours when Kuroko was liberated from an enclosed proximity. Besides being exhausted, he was drained from the stares of the notorious Akashi family. Throughout the duration of their meeting, Kuroko wore his usual apathetic stare. He silently observed as he scrutinized the exchanged glances and words as they finalized their discussions for the bright future of their respective families. The future of their trading golden opportunities. The heir of the prosperous Akashi Corporations had the legendary smirk of his plastered onto his face.

Kuroko had surrendered his rights and cared nothing for the Kuroko family. The two businessmen had granted permission to implement collaborations of a new market and had plans of launching new tradings. It was a golden opportunity between both families. The noble families that several companies and conglomerates had given up dethroning from their mighty positions. They were dominant and influential opponents in the world of business. Going against such a formidable opponent was suicide. As renowned businessmen, they knew better that there was nothing to be offered for free.

The Akashi family held conditions in exchange for their resources. The chairman of the Akashi Corporations agreed to their conditions, in exchange for Kuroko Tetsuya. And the people that were related to the Kuroko family would be forbidden from meeting with Kuroko. Ever.

Although the current master of the Kuroko family and the Akashi family shared connections due to the similarities of their positions, there was not once the chairman of the Akashi Corporations had been moved by extreme biased perceptions of favoritism. Even Kuroko’s father would have known to a certain extent. Kuroko Tetsurou, the current master of the Kuroko family can’t help but wonder of the schemes and traps the Akashi chairman had in mind. After all, the Akashi Corporations suffered more losses than benefits from making a deal with the Kuroko family. Kuroko Tetsurou can’t resist but to be skeptical of their true intentions.

“I told you, fate is such an amusing thing. Kuroko Tetsuya-kun.” Akashi’s sarcastic tone had Kuroko realized the reality of the current situation.

After the final discussions of their ends of the deal, Kuroko’s father had left his own son in the hands of the Akashi family. Kuroko had a blank stare that made people often become wary of his odd behaviors. They did not possess a perceptive ability like Kuroko which enables him to read and reveal the darkest secrets of people. Before he could wrap his mind around it, Kuroko had found himself standing in front of the apartment that was not of his own. The wooden door plate on the right side read [Akashi].

The Akashi chairman had sighed as he observed the son of his pitiful childhood friend of his. His blank stare and the ability to feel pain was lacklustre than average was daunting. The long durations of abuse and negligence from his childhood had taken effect. It had affected the brain psychologically, the chairman had suspected long-term rehabilitation would be necessary. The poor child needs strong emotional support, the woman that tricked his childhood friend was the main cause. By cutting relationships with Tetsurou, the chairman took the first step to shed light of the darkness that had long fallen into the grasps of an evil demon.

“Hoho, is that why there was not a single sign of reluctance and rebelliance? I’m astounded, Seijuurou.” Akashi’s father had chuckled.

Akashi flinched. Although it was slight, the fleeting moment had caught the eye of his own father. The chairman of the Akashi Corporations wasn't just a figurehead title. He was the man that was nicknamed the Crimson Emperor. He was a living legend, despite the fortunate environment and the resources he inherited as the successor of a noble family. Genius is one percent inspiration and ninety-nine percent perspiration; those were his favourite quotes when he was in his prime which had driven him to success. It was also his predecessors' favourite quote.

It is the efforts of honesty and hard work that would be paid off; carving the path of success with the reliance of your identity from the moment you are born were deemed useless. An effective example would be the countless opponents that the Akashi Corporations had crushed on a daily basis. And just like his crimson hair, he had single-handed crushed thousands of shabby companies with his incessant beliefs. Among the intense battles he fought, with his crimson hair, Akashi Masaomi was bestowed the notorious nickname which had remained eminent till today. There was nothing that escaped unscathed from the observant sight of the infamous Akashi Masaomi.

That night was also the day Kuroko had the last view of his father’s back. The feeling that he’ll never see his father again. Sorry, Tetsuya. I'm not suited to be your father. This is the only way I can protect you. I loved you, Tetsuya. Those were his father's last words he would remember for the longest time of his life. It was the best predicament Kuroko had hoped for, the liberty from the cruel chains of the Kuroko family. Now that Kuroko’s wish was within the grasps, somehow, the final conclusion between them had its curtains drawn just like that. It was their final act. The wish to disappear from the bottom of their hearts. Be free, Tetsuya.

Regardless what kind of awful relationships they shared, they are still father and child of the same family.

Akashi had unlocked the security to the entrance, Kuroko was pushed inside. Kuroko had turned around, stared at the Akashi pair behind him. Akashi had sighed. “You have a lot of things on your mind, but it’s been a long day. For starters, why don’t you get inside?” Akashi’s sarcastic tone had returned.

Kuroko had scowled. However, his professor’s words made sense. It would be outrageous to be standing in the corridors in the middle of cold winter at night. Kuroko could already imagine Izuki and Riko’s exasperated expressions when they hears about this the next morning. Kuroko took off his shoes and dragged his feet to the nearest couch placed in the center of the living room. Akashi smiled, followed Kuroko into the living room. He took out three cans of fruit juice from the fridge and placed them on the coffee table.

The apartment Akashi owned was pale in comparison, and was a huge contrast with the main residence of the Akashi family, it was still luxurious compared to Kuroko’s abode. A dejected Kuroko did not have the heart to appreciate the classy dwellings like ordinary people would. Kuroko sat in silence, a pendant was clutched tightly in his palms. It was his mother's last momento, the only thing left that Tetsurou had protected from his wife. It was a pendant made from his late mother's birthstone, amethyst.

“I’ll leave Tetsuya-kun in your hands, Seijuurou. I’m counting on you.” Those were Masaomi words before he left the new couple with his loyal attendant.

Kuroko woke to the beeping sound of the alarm going off placed on the desk the next morning. He rose with a start. The bedroom and its furniture arrangement evidently was foreign and hinted it wasn’t the room of Kuroko’s apartment. The pastel-colored walls, curtains, pillows, blankets and the wooden floor had a nostalgia touch. Kuroko wondered why. He pulled back the blankets, revealing a hand underneath the mountain of pillows. Kuroko stared at it. A hand? He frowned, scrutinized the bulging shape of the space next to him under those pillows and blankets. Sure enough, the shape matched the figure of a person perfectly. Someone had been sleeping next to him.

The beeping sound of the alarm clock went off louder and louder. The hand reached for the alarm clock in annoyance. Kuroko’s attention was drawn to the digital alarm clock. It read: 7: 45 AM. He blinked once, blinked twice, and he blinked trice. Kuroko paled.

“I’m late!” he gasped in horror.

Kuroko jumped out of bed, just to be pulled into the arms of the person who had been sleeping next to him. He met the dazzling smile of his professor, Akashi Seijuurou. Kuroko sighed. The strange points now made sense. Everything was his fault. Kuroko frowned, racking the memories of last night's events. He remembered walking into the living room of Akashi's apartment, however he could not remember taking a bath and getting changed into pajamas. The memories after he traipsed into the living room were hazy and foggy. He stared at the slightly oversized pajamas he was wearing. Now that he was wide awake, he began to notice the pile of luggage was arranged neatly in a corner. Kuroko scowled at Akashi.

"What are you doing? You do realize class starts at 8, don't you?" Kuroko questioned. The blatant expression of speechlessness was written all over his face.

"Why, you haven't had enough sleep these days, don't you? Why don't you get more rest? I'll approve your absence for today."

Akashi's tone had a vague hint of his usual sarcasm, that dazzling smile that had everyone wrapped under his fingers. He was such an expert that people don't realize they were being used or played by Akashi. Akashi was an expert of taking advantage of speech and persuasion, ultimately dragging his victims into his pace and achieved excellent results. Famous public figures worldwide had often found the heir of the Akashi Corporations challenging and hard to deal with mainly because of his superb skills. Even the best swindlers and conmen were put to shame.

The man named Kuroko Tetsuya before him was different. Things won't go as smoothly as he wanted, as long as Kuroko Tetsuya was around. It was one of the reasons Akashi found it interesting. The abandoned child of the Kuroko family was a hidden gem they had tossed. They were entranced by desires that they lost the sight of the true gem. After all, Akashi and Kuroko were extremely similar in several ways. They were formidable opponents of the same pod. As enemies, they were intimidating; as allies, they were invincible.

"Listen to you talk. How convenient." Kuroko was unimpressed. “You shouldn’t show favoritism, Professor. You’ll be hated.”

Akashi wrapped his arms around Kuroko’s waist. “Patience is virtue, my dear. Besides, there are important things to be settled first. Isn’t it?”

His notorious grin had infuriated Kuroko. Kuroko sighed, deciding that getting frustrated at Akashi’s comebacks of volatility and fickleness was a Sisyphean task. Kuroko had suspected he was being played on. Akashi had closed in on the proximity between them, had stolen another kiss. Kuroko had flushed crimson, his fragile attempts at pushing his sarcastic professor were deemed futile. Kuroko glared at his professor, despite his blush that marred his usual deadpan expression. Akashi chuckled with a gentle smile. How adorable.

It didn’t take them long before the new couple rolled into the kitchen with a hot cup of coffee in their hands. Akashi laid two leather booklets that were resting on the kitchen counter. There were two copies of the same booklet. One belongs to Akashi, and another belongs to Kuroko. From the color and the quality of its cover, Kuroko extrapolated the contents of the booklet. Kuroko stared at it with the most insouciant expression Akashi had ever seen. Akashi smiled. He was glad that Kuroko’s mental state was doing much better than he had expected, after everything he had been going through. Kuroko lifted one of the booklets with his delicate and slender fingers.

It was solid evidence of their marriage. Their marriage certificates.

"Just have you have guessed, I'm sure you're certain of the purpose of that red booklet." Akashi spoke. "I told you, didn't I? That we have much to talk about. Now is the perfect time."

"I see. You planned to hold me in your captive. I guess it won't take them long for them to go crazy and start turning every corner of the city inside out." Kuroko took another sip of his coffee. Kuroko was never a fan of bitter drinks, sugar and lots of milk had been added to his drink. "My loyal bodyguards, that is."

"Hoho, that's interesting." Akashi displayed the page that identified the owner of the booklet in front of Kuroko's observant irises. "You do remember the reason why you're left in my care, don't you?"

Kuroko stared at the page that indicated his name. There it was, the words were printed in black ink at the bottom of the page. The unbelievable reality that a day would come where he would walk the Earth, bounded by the family name of his Literature professor. The evidence was a fact of justice. The name that would protect Kuroko from the abusive hands of the Kuroko family. Akashi Tetsuya. That would be his name from now on. The wife of the supreme successor of the Akashi Corporations.

Kuroko's usual deadpan nature broke. Tears began forming at the corners of his corneas. Kuroko was just another child that yearned for love. Kuroko had broken into tears. Akashi pulled Kuroko into his warm embrace. Despite the swiftness he had expertly dealt with challenges, Kuroko was still a child. His mental state had developed a trauma from the days he was rendered powerless at the hands of his abusive relatives. He planted a small kiss on his pale skin, wiped the profuse tears staining the sides of his face. His affection for Kuroko was real. Akashi had truly believed the ethereal appearance of a person he had met at the bar by chance possessed a truly beautiful and kind heart. He deeply cared for Kuroko, hoping that a day would come when Kuroko would be freed from the chains of the Kuroko family.

For the first time, Akashi witnessed Kuroko burst into tears in front of him. The timid and elusive individual carrying such heavy burdens with that delicate figure he possessed. He was alone, without allies in that abusive family. He had fought alone, his poignant skills sharpened over the long years he spent with the Kuroko family. For that delicate child to display such emotions, Akashi figured it must have been the first time he had someone to talk to. For an individual who lacked display of emotions and was often involved in undesirable rumors and had expertly ignored them with great skill, Kuroko broke down in front of him.

Often surrounded by the stars of Japan, he was the only person who was strong enough to go against his instructor who earned the nickname resembling a devil from stories of local folklore. With Kuroko's nerves as hard as steel and the frightening skills that often made people skeptical of his origins. Akashi realized the meanings behind those words. Although Kuroko had appeared to be pococurante, the trepidation he kept deep within were insecure and reticent. He had been protected by them since the first incident. The self-proclaimed bodyguards of Kuroko Tetsuya.

Akashi was desperate. It was then Akashi realized something. Kuroko was withdrawn from his peers, a high possibility the trauma from his childhood days played a major role in Kuroko’s maldevelopment. Akashi made it his mission. To shed light onto the crimes that were whisked into darkness, the elusive shrewd malefactors shall be seized in flagrante delicto. To extricate Kuroko from the pit of the abyss.

"Fall in love with me. I'll always protect you. After all, you're a precious treasure entrusted in my care." Akashi smiled. "You're already mine."

Akashi vowed he would fight for Kuroko's sake, revealing the truth the Kuroko family had been scheming for years.

The new couple had a meal together in silence. They sat across each other at the dining table. It was almost lunch time when the pair were finally done with their discussions. Akashi was right. It was the best time to take some time off. Both school and his side job. It was a simple dish made by Akashi’s housekeeper who comes to clean Akashi’s apartment on every alternate day of the week. The housekeeper had made a Japanese meal, which consisted of tofu and miso soup, grilled fish, egg and the traditional food of asians: rice. Kuroko had teared at the sight of luscious and warm food served before his eyes. The odd behavior which ordinary people deemed average had startled Akashi. He was at loss.

“It had been a long time since I was last served such delectable and warm food.” Kuroko had burst into tears of happiness. The food had reminded Kuroko of his mother's warm touch when he was just a young child.

After receiving a single message on his phone, Akashi had showered and changed in mere minutes. He was dressed in his usual black and white expensive suit. Akashi had grabbed his wallet and keys from the counter on the way out. Kuroko had followed Akashi to the front entrance. He timidly grabbed onto the sleeve of Akashi's blazer. Akashi gave him a gentle smile. He chuckled at the adorable sight of his wife. Yes, his wife. Legally approved by both families, at the tender age of eighteen. Akashi was four years older than Kuroko.

"Uh…. Professor….." Kuroko began. The undeniable trepidation was evident.

"It's fine, Tetsuya. You can do whatever you want in this house.You are perfectly safe here. Starting today, this is also your home." He planted a deep kiss on his pale lips before departing. "I'll be back soon."

Akashi got into his favourite sleek black BMW parked in the basement’s driveway. He inserted the metallic key into the keyhole, the familiar sounds of the roaring engine were satisfying music to his ears. Akashi pulled on his seatbelt, released the emergency break and shifted the gear to ‘Drive Mode’. Stepping on the accelerator, Akashi reversed from the driveway onto the familiar route to his office. Upon arrival at his office, his secretary had entered his office with a cup of coffee. She was dressed in a formal suit. A black blazer and an office miniskirt, along with black matching high-heels.

“Well? The reason I was summoned, Miss Uehara?” Akashi took a sip of his coffee. “Tell me.”

“That would be me,”

The owner of the gruff voice had appeared at the entranceway of Akashi’s office. Judging by appearances, he was clearly in his mid-twenties. That man had raven-black hair covering the side of his left eye and a mole under his right eye. Those were distinguishable features of members of the Himuro family, inheritors of a famous businessman in America. He was dressed smartly in his favourite pale gray dress shirt and black slacks. The way they interacted with each other, anyone could tell they were business partners. Akashi sighed.

“What, you again? Tatsuya?”

The man named Tatsuya shrugged. “Why, we have a collaborative deal, remember? Stop making that sour face. Aren't you happy to see me, after so many years?" Tatsuya had grinned. He settled himself on Akashi's leather two-seater couch. "By the way, I heard some interesting rumours during my travels."

Akashi’s right brow arched, confusion was evident as he typed away on his portable computer. “What is it?” Akashi had asked.

“I heard you got married, Seijuurou.” Tatsuya smirked.

Akashi’s secretary stumbled over the files she was going through, and Akashi spluttered over his coffee. Akashi stared at Tatsuya. He was devastated and appalled. Tatsuya continued, “Well? I’m pretty sure your current thoughts must be something like how did you know? Or who told you that? Right? It’s written all over your face, Crimson Emperor Akashi Seijuurou.” Tatsuya recited his notorious nickname with a hint of tease.

Uehara listened intently with great interest. After all, it was a rare topic of her boss’s personal affairs many employees longed after. Who wouldn’t? With a person like Akashi who was revered as a blessing of the heavens. Exceptional skills, gorgeous looks, and most importantly, he was single. He was tight-lipped regardless countless people had questioned his plans for his future. And one day, Akashi told the chairman that he would like to instruct at Rakuzan University, claiming he had a dream that he would have a fateful encounter with a special person there. Uehara thought her boss had just pulled a joke out of the blue. The very next day, his boss was nowhere to be found in his office, and had started working and gave Uehara instructions through mail and mobile. Uehara had found his boss’s egocentric inclination impressive. As expected of the son of the chairman.

Akashi scowled. “I bet Father told you, didn’t he?”

Tatsuya’s satisfied display of expression was all Akashi needed.