Chapter Text
The next day, the atmosphere between Iwaizumi and Oikawa had shifted, just a little.
It wasn’t anything grand or particularly noticeable, just a subtle shift that Oikawa couldn’t quite place. He could still feel the distance between them, but the suffocating tension that had lingered for days seemed to have loosened its grip. And he hasn’t trailed sour scents since yesterday. There was an odd sense of familiarity in the apartment, the silence between them no longer as sharp and biting as it had been.
Oikawa stayed seated on the bed for a moment longer and mindlessly rubbed his belly, his mind remembering their sexual activities yesterday.
Honestly, he thought he would be more embarrassed about it. Or he thought that Iwaizumi would act differently around him.
He was wrong. Apparently, it just made him happy. The baby seemed to agree because she was surprisingly behaved in his belly.
He made his way to the kitchen, and found Iwaizumi already at the stove. His back was turned, but Oikawa could hear the familiar clink of pots and the quiet hum of the microwave. He peeked over Iwaizumi’s shoulder and his eyes twinkled at the sight of his favorite breakfast item.
“Is that for me?” Oikawa asked cautiously, leaning against the counter.
Iwaizumi didn’t turn around, but Oikawa could see the faintest nod. "Yeah. Thought you’d be hungry by now."
A brief silence followed, the sounds of cooking filling the room. It wasn’t like Iwaizumi to do things like this without being asked—especially lately, with how disconnected they had been.
However, it wasn’t anything new, Iwaizumi always treated Oikawa like a princess ever since he could remember. Even if the alpha denied it.
Oikawa quietly sat at the table, glancing at the food, then at Iwaizumi. He wordlessly set the plate in front of him, a steaming omelet and sliced fruit arranged neatly, and Oikawa murmured a soft, almost shy, “Thanks.” Iwaizumi just nodded, giving a small smile, but his eyes held a warmth that Oikawa hadn’t seen in so long. Eventually, he picked up his fork, taking a bite, letting the warmth of the food distract him from the confusing emotions bubbling inside.
Throughout the day, Iwaizumi continued to do small, thoughtful things, even if he never spoke much.
Once the dishes were done, Iwaizumi began tidying the living room, picking up stray items and organizing their space. Oikawa joined him, shuffling through the small clutter, putting away magazines and straightening cushions on the couch. When he bent down to reach a book under the coffee table, he felt a surge of dizziness.
Iwaizumi noticed immediately, stepping in closer. “You okay?” he asked, his tone more concerned than demanding.
“Just a little dizzy,” Oikawa admitted, taking a breath and sitting on the couch. He rested his hands on his belly, feeling the familiar fluttering of the baby. Iwaizumi stayed close, leaning against the wall and watching him for a moment.
“Sit for a bit,” Iwaizumi said softly, almost like a command, but with a gentleness that made Oikawa’s heart flutter. He nodded, appreciating the concern even if he wasn’t sure how to vocalize it.
As the day wore on, Oikawa found himself getting up to make some tea. He moved around the kitchen slowly, searching for the right mug, trying to remember where he had put the tea bags. When he finally found what he was looking for, he turned around to see Iwaizumi leaning against the kitchen doorway, arms crossed, watching him.
“Need help?” he asked, though his voice was low and casual, as if it was just a routine question.
“I’ve got it,” Oikawa replied, but he felt the strain in his back as he reached for the kettle. Iwaizumi sighed, moving closer and taking the kettle from him.
“I can do that,” he said, filling it with water and setting it on the stove. Oikawa couldn’t help but smile at the effortless way Iwaizumi took over, his movements practiced and confident.
While they waited for the water to boil, Oikawa noticed Iwaizumi tidying up the countertop, wiping away crumbs and arranging the canisters neatly. “You really don’t have to do all this,” Oikawa said, leaning against the counter. “I can still do it.”
“I know you can, but you don’t need to,” Iwaizumi replied, glancing at him briefly with an earnest look in his eyes. “Not when I’m here.”
After their tea was ready, they moved to the living room, Oikawa curling up on the couch with his feet tucked beneath him. Iwaizumi settled next to him, their shoulders brushing together. The comfort of the familiar position felt nice, a safe space even with the unspoken questions hanging overhead.
When Oikawa’s back aches from standing too long, Iwaizumi silently offers him a pillow to prop up against.
He even adjusted the angle of the couch cushions without asking, making it more comfortable for Oikawa to lie down when he took his usual mid-afternoon nap. Oikawa hadn’t said a word about his discomfort, but somehow, Iwaizumi seemed to notice.
Before, their interactions had felt forced, like two strangers sharing the same space. But now, there was a strange sense of normalcy, like they had slipped back into old routines without even realizing it.
Iwaizumi took charge, sorting the clothes into colors and whites without a word, moving effortlessly between tasks. Oikawa felt a warm rush of affection watching him, the way he was so naturally attentive.
Once the laundry was running, they spent the afternoon folding and organizing more of their belongings. When Oikawa bent to pick up a pile of towels, he felt the familiar tightness in his back again. Iwaizumi was right there, his hands settling on Oikawa’s hips, lifting him gently.
“Let me do that,” Iwaizumi said, taking the towels from him and folding them with practiced efficiency. Oikawa’s cheeks flushed at the contact, but he didn’t pull away. Instead, he let Iwaizumi take care of him, grateful for the support.
Oikawa watched from the side, feeling oddly displaced. It was strange—this sudden mindfulness from Iwaizumi.
When Oikawa needed something from the top shelf, Iwaizumi appeared almost instantly by his side, reaching up to grab the cereal box or glass he’d been straining for.
Every time he shivered slightly, Iwaizumi would wordlessly drape a blanket over his shoulders. When he dropped something, Iwaizumi would pick it up before he even had the chance to reach for it. When Oikawa needed something from the top shelf, Iwaizumi appeared almost instantly by his side, reaching up to grab the cereal box or glass he’d been straining for. Because sometimes Hanamaki or Matsukawa would tease him and put stuff on high shelves. He could reach them just fine if he wasn’t pregnant.
For some reason, Iwaizumi was taller than him now, Oikawa almost jumped at him when he saw Iwaizumi Hajime at the airport looking tanned and taller . An alpha growth spurt or something like that.
Oikawa was startled by how attuned Iwaizumi was to his every little discomfort, and though he felt reluctant at Iwaizumi’s sudden change, he couldn’t deny the warmth that flooded him each time Iwaizumi showed love..?
As the day wore on, Iwaizumi would occasionally scent him whenever he noticed the smallest hint of anxiety or discomfort coming from the omega. It was a subtle but comforting gesture that soothed Oikawa more than he cared to admit, grounding him in ways he hadn’t realized he needed. And each time, Oikawa wanted to ask why Iwaizumi was doing this.
The day continued like this, filled with small, mundane gestures that would have gone unnoticed any other time. Yet today, they felt significant.
It was as though Iwaizumi had decided to care for Oikawa in ways that didn’t require words. It felt like the icy detachment poking at him relentlessly finally melted away.
Was Iwaizumi doing this out of obligation? Out of some sense of responsibility toward Oikawa and the baby? Or was this his way of trying to fix their relationship? Oikawa couldn’t tell, and that uncertainty gnawed at him.
That afternoon, Oikawa retreated into the nursery. Organizing things always gave him a sense of control, especially when everything else in his life felt chaotic. He wanted to arrange the baby’s things, maybe even scent them again, a calming ritual for both him and the baby. As he moved quietly through the room, he could feel his nerves settling, piece by piece, like the items he was arranging.
Iwaizumi, on the other hand, was a ball of nerves. He kept his expression neutral, calm, but inside he was jittery, unsure of every move he made. He didn’t want to make things worse with Oikawa; things were so fragile between them, and he was terrified of breaking whatever tentative peace they had. So far, Oikawa hadn’t seemed upset, and Iwaizumi took some solace in the fact that he couldn’t smell any negative pheromones coming from him. At least that meant something.
Iwaizumi’s eyes followed Oikawa’s movements as he disappeared into the nursery. He had paperwork he needed to finish, but…that could wait.
Oikawa, his mate, was in the next room, and right now, that felt more important than anything. The paperwork could wait.
Iwaizumi stood up and made his way towards the nursery. He could hear some scraping noises—Oikawa moving things around, likely over-exerting himself. Iwaizumi’s first instinct was to rush in, but he stopped himself, knowing how much Oikawa hated being hovered over.
“You don’t need to hover around, you know.” The omega could see the footsteps on the tiny gap at the bottom of the door. He could almost smell the alpha’s presence at the door too.
Well shit.
The omega knew him too well. No point in denying it so Iwaizumi pushed open the door. The room was half-finished, scattered with baby items in boxes, a few plush toys sitting on shelves( including a really cute Godzilla one ), and a changing table set against the wall. Oikawa was bent over a box of toys, his movements deliberate and a little tense, like he wasn’t quite sure what to do with his hands.
“So… who carried all this stuff in here?” Iwaizumi asked, making his voice as casual as he could, though his curiosity was genuine.
“Makki and Mattsun,” Oikawa replied without looking up, his tone cool, though a small smile tugged at the corner of his mouth.
Iwaizumi raised a brow, the faintest trace of amusement entering his expression. “They actually helped you with this?”
Oikawa’s lips curved into a half-smile, though he still didn’t quite meet Iwaizumi’s gaze. “More like they pitied me,” he admitted, his voice light but carrying a hint of embarrassment. It wasn’t like Matsukawa and Hanamaki didn’t want to help him, Oikawa made a schedule in his head and he wanted it to be done exactly at that time. The pair wasn’t a huge fan of practicality. “I did most of the work, though. They just lifted the heavy stuff.”
Iwaizumi bit back a sigh, his hand rubbing the back of his neck. He made a mental note to have a little talk with Makki and Mattsun later—though he was grateful they had been there for Oikawa, he wished he had been the one to carry that load, literally and figuratively.
He cleared his throat, glancing around at the room that still had a long way to go. “Anything else I can do?”
At this, Oikawa looked up, his eyes flickering with something unreadable. For just a second, his face softened, and Iwaizumi could see the weariness, the subtle hope there. But it vanished just as quickly, replaced with a guarded expression.
“Well… the crib needs to be built,” he said, shrugging as he tried to make it sound casual, though his fingers fidgeted slightly with a small plush toy in his hands. He looked away, like he was almost afraid to ask for more.
“Alright,” Iwaizumi nodded, already rolling up his sleeves as he crossed the room. “Where is it?”
Oikawa pointed to a flat box leaning against the wall, looking somewhat relieved as Iwaizumi knelt beside it. He could feel Oikawa’s gaze on him, hesitant and uncertain, like he was waiting to see if Iwaizumi would actually go through with it.
Oikawa intentionally did not build the crib because his skills are only capable for volleyball unfortunately. Sure, he can cook and do chores and whatever. But he was an omega! (granted not a typical one, but still.) He technically didn’t have to learn how.
As Iwaizumi worked on the crib, Oikawa busied himself with assembling some hanging toys. He strung together cute little volleyball themed charms and plush animals, his mind momentarily distracted by the small, colorful objects.
Iwaizumi, however, was focused on the task at hand, stealing glances at Oikawa whenever he could. There was something comforting in seeing him in the nursery, working quietly with the baby’s things.
When Oikawa finished setting up the floral foam mattress, blankets, and pillows for the crib, his ankles were aching from standing for so long. He let out a soft sigh and sat down in the cozy armchair by the window, stretching his legs out in front of him.
He was debating on getting a rocking chair. But he thought about how he probably wasn’t gonna stay in Tokyo forever, with his Argentinian citizenship and all. It would’ve been a waste of money.
Iwaizumi, finishing the crib assembly, noticed Oikawa’s wince of discomfort. “You all right?” he asked, his voice laced with concern.
“I’m fine,”
“Like hell you are.”
Without a word, Iwaizumi grabbed a small stool from the corner of the room and brought it over to where Oikawa was sitting. He knelt down in front of him, gently taking Oikawa’s feet and resting them on his knees.
Oikawa jolted slightly at the unexpected gesture, but he didn’t protest. Instead, he watched as Iwaizumi began to massage his swollen ankles, his strong hands moving with the kind of precision and care that came naturally to him as an athletic trainer. Oikawa closed his eyes, letting the soothing sensation wash over him. He hadn’t realized just how much pain he’d been in until it started to fade under Iwaizumi’s skilled touch.
By the time Iwaizumi finished, Oikawa felt like the pain wasn’t there in the first place. He muttered a quiet, “Thank you,” his voice softer than usual, genuinely grateful for the massage.
Iwaizumi stood up, moving to put the stool back in its place. “Of course, baby,” he said, the word slipping out before he could stop it.
Both of them froze.
Iwaizumi’s eyes widened in panic. Shit. He wasn’t supposed to say that. They hadn’t even talked about their feelings yet, about where they stood.
“Sorry,” Iwaizumi quickly apologized, mentally kicking himself for the slip-up.
Oikawa sat there, stunned. He didn’t know what to feel. It kind of felt nice, being called baby again, hearing that in Iwaizumi’s voice. But he wasn’t about to admit that. Not yet.
Instead, he muttered, “It’s fine,” though his tone betrayed the mix of emotions swirling inside him.
Awkward silence fell between them. Iwaizumi cleared his throat, stepping towards the door. “I still have some paperwork to finish. Just call me if you need anything.”
Oikawa just nodded, watching him leave. As soon as the door clicked shut behind Iwaizumi, Oikawa exhaled, long and slow.
What the actual heck just happened? He pressed a hand to his chest, his heart pounding in a stuttering rhythm of emotions that clung to every word and action Iwaizumi did today.
He glanced at the freshly built crib, at the soft toys hanging above it. Maybe Oikawa didn’t feel completely alone anymore.
As Iwaizumi stepped out of the bathroom, he noticed the apartment was quiet—eerily so. It was still early, they had just finished eating dinner. And he’d assumed Oikawa was getting ready for bed. But when he passed by the kitchen, he spotted Oikawa sitting on the floor, his back resting against the cabinets, head bent down.
“Tooru?” Iwaizumi’s voice was soft, yet the concern in it was palpable. His instincts were basically pushing him towards his upset omega. He approached slowly, watching the omega’s shoulders shake with quiet sniffles. Iwaizumi crouched down beside him, reaching out to place a gentle hand on his arm. “Hey… why are you on the floor?” His voice was low, filled with worry. He let out his scent more in an attempt to soothe Oikawa. “Are you okay?”
Oikawa lifted his head slightly, his tear-streaked cheeks glistening in the dim kitchen light. He tried to wipe his eyes quickly, as if embarrassed to be seen like this. “I’m fine,” he mumbled, but his voice cracked at the last word, betraying him. There was a small quiver in his tone that broke Iwaizumi’s heart.
“Oikawa, come on,” Iwaizumi said softly, his thumb tracing small circles on Oikawa’s arm. “Talk to me. What’s wrong?”
Oikawa sniffled, glancing away. Should he be embarrassed about this? People cry over ice cream a lot right?
His voice came out in a whisper. “There’s… there’s no more chocolate fudge brownie ice cream in the freezer.” He let out a shuddering sigh, clearly trying to pull himself together, but his disappointment was as raw as his vulnerability.
Iwaizumi blinked, taken aback by the reason for his distress, but he quickly realized that it wasn’t just about the ice cream. It was more than that—Oikawa’s desperation likely amplified by the pregnancy. So, instead of laughing or brushing it off, Iwaizumi gave him a gentle smile. “Stay here, okay? I’ll take care of it.”
Before Oikawa could argue, Iwaizumi grabbed his keys and slipped out the door.
The streets were quiet as he made his way to the 24-hour convenience store by their apartment, he was shaking from nervousness. He was buying something for his omega that could either worsen his crying state or make it better.
Inside, he scanned the freezer aisle and sighed in relief when he spotted a whole row of chocolate fudge brownie ice cream. He thanked all of his lucky stars. He didn’t know how much Oikawa would want, so he bought several, double-checking each flavor before heading to the cashier.
The woman behind the counter—a middle-aged omega with a kind smile—raised an eyebrow as she scanned the stack of pints.
She gave him a knowing look. “Pregnancy cravings?”
Iwaizumi chuckled, “Yeah…”
She shook her head, smiling. “Your mate’s lucky to have you. I remember my mate doing the same when I was expecting. It means a lot.”
Iwaizumi managed a small smile, but her words hit harder than he expected. He hadn’t been there for Oikawa as much as he should’ve been, but he was here now—and he wasn’t planning on going anywhere. Thanking the cashier, he headed home, cradling the bag as if someone would snatch it from him. He will not mess this up.
When he stepped back into their apartment, Oikawa’s face lit up, a burst of pleased pheromones settled in the kitchen when his eyes saw the bag of ice cream. Iwaizumi rubbed his shoulder gently, giving him a soft smile. “Come on, let’s get you off the floor.”
Oikawa took his hand, letting Iwaizumi help him up from the floor. As they reached the pantry, Oikawa pulled out his favorite bowl and set it on the counter, then reached for caramel syrup and a bag of potato chips. His hands trembled as he assembled his snack, sniffles escaping him with every step of the process. Iwaizumi knew that he wasn’t crying of sadness this time.
The alpha watched, his heart growing more scared of missing these moments with Oikawa. They really have to talk soon.
Once Oikawa was settled with his bowl, Iwaizumi figured he could open his laptop at the kitchen table, pretending to work but really just not wanting to leave Oikawa alone.
Oikawa nestled onto the sofa, balancing the bowl on his belly. He took a bite, savoring the flavors.
The alpha held his breath. No complaints. Iwaizumi did get the right flavor after all.
When suddenly he gasped, his hand shooting to his stomach. Iwaizumi’s head snapped up, alarmed. “What’s wrong?” Fuck, maybe he celebrated his victory too soon.
But then Oikawa smiled, eyes wide with wonder. “The baby kicked pretty hard just now.” Iwaizumi slowly nodded his head, his train of thoughts regarding the desire to feel the kicks was interrupted when–
“Do you..” He paused, then glanced shyly at Iwaizumi. “–want to feel?” Iwaizumi responded by quickly standing up and walking over to where Oikawa layed comfortably on the sofa.
Iwaizumi’s hand just hovered over Oikawa’s belly for a solid minute, unsure of how to approach this situation. Shit, he did not think he’d go this far.
Oikawa rolls his eyes, growing weary that the baby might stop her kicking if Iwaizumi takes even longer . Then again, she’s always been responsive to anything that Iwaizumi does. Why does he look so…unsure anyways?
But being the better person and all, he slowly laid his own hands on Iwaizumi’s hovering ones, the alpha jolts at the sudden contact but he doesn’t pull them back.
The omega, feeling no refusal, guides them to the top of his belly, “This is where her feet are,” Iwaizumi immediately felt a particularly strong kick under his hands, “Feel it?” He let out a rather audible gasp of surprise. It felt more…real that he was going to be a father. Iwaizumi felt warmth spreading throughout his body, the good kind, warm and fuzzy. He was actually going to hold their pup in a couple of months.
Oikawa couldn’t help but giggle at the alpha’s sound of surprise and that stupid face he makes when he’s shocked. Iwaizumi jolts a second time within not even five minutes from the sound of Oikawa’s giggles.
He forgot how much he loved to hear his voice, his laugh, no matter if it annoys him sometimes (in a good way) . Didn’t even know he missed that bubbly sound until he heard it again. It suddenly felt like he was transported back in time where that beautiful sound echoed around his memories, back when Oikawa Tooru was just his best friend and they played volleyball together in the back of his house.
And gosh— Iwaizumi really wanted to hex himself because how could he let this go? How did he survive this past year without breathing and existing in the same place as Oikawa Tooru?
Iwaizumi stopped hearing the omegas giggles–though it still rang wonderfully faint in his ears–Oikawa suddenly became aware of Iwaizumi suspiciously quiet demeanor.
Iwaizumi gently pulls their hands close to his chest, then he leans down and kisses Oikawa’s presented knuckles, it's the omegas turn to be stunned. Iwaizumi gently turns his hands so that he is facing Oikawa’s wrists, he kisses it too and scents both his scent glands.
Oikawa’s heart beat thumps more furiously after the next because what the fuck is happening right now? Is he hallucinating? Oh my gosh, did the ice cream that Iwaizumi bought for him was laced with some sort of poison? Oh gosh he might pass out—
Iwaizumi laces their fingers together then bends down to kiss at the side of Oikawa’s belly. He softly lets go of Oikawa’s hands so that Iwaizumi cradled his face, his thumb brushing against Oikawa’s cheek as he leaned in, pressing a series of soft kisses, seared onto his skin like a promise. Iwaizumi leaned in and kissed his forehead, either sides of his temple, his eyes–that were slowly pooling with tears–, his nose, his chin, both of his cheeks, and the sides of his mouth.
Iwaizumi finally had the courage to stare lovingly at Oikawa’s eyes for the first time in six months, and the omega was definitely about to pass out—
Iwaizumi’s hand gently rubbed Oikawa’s back, as if sensing his panic.
“I hope she looks like you.” Iwaizumi whispers in his ear.
The statement was sweet, though the omega hoped their pup would look like Iwaizumi. But the way the alpha said it made Oikawa feel the haze of arousal bubble up inside him.
Oikawa guided the hand caressing his belly to his legs. Iwaizumi immediately got the memo.
The omega widened his legs to slot Iwaizumi’s hands in-between his thighs, subtly making the alpha’s fingers brush against his already soaking panties.
Neither of them expected this to be the outcome of their evening but they were not complaining.
Oikawa took a steadying breath, his voice dropping to a near-whisper. "Please… I want you, need you inside me now ." he murmured, his eyes searching Iwaizumi's face.
Without another word, Iwaizumi leaned closer, pressing his lips to the sensitive curve of Oikawa's neck. His breath was warm, his kisses slow and careful, savoring the moment and inhaling his omega’s sweet scent, overripe mangoes with floral undertones. Iwaizumi knew he was doomed when he first inhaled Oikawa’s scent with the consciousness of being an alpha.
Oikawa's breath hitched and a quiet moan escaped him as Iwaizumi's other hand moved upward, fingers tracing a path along his waist, resting there with a gentle but grounding pressure.
"Aren't you sore?" Iwaizumi's voice was barely a whisper, tinged with concern, yet his hand remained steady on Oikawa's side, reassuring him without words that he was here, willing to follow wherever Oikawa wanted to take them.
Oikawa didn't respond verbally, but his hand reached up, wrapping around Iwaizumi's neck, pulling him closer until their bodies pressed together the best it could be. His fingers slid through Iwaizumi's hair, a quiet plea for more as he nuzzled closer.
Iwaizumi's kisses moved down, brushing over the delicate skin of Oikawa's collarbone, then down to his chest, licking the space between his tits, lingering as he breathed in Oikawa's familiar scent.
He pulled down his pants, only leaving his boxers on. He helped Oikawa get rid of his oversized t-shirt and shorts, flailing the pieces of clothing in the living room like their existence offended them because it deprived them from feeling each other's skin.
He guided the omega to lay down on his back, in a more comfortable position than sitting down.
Iwaizumi's hands traveled over Oikawa's sides, resting momentarily just beneath his belly as he leaned in, his mouth meeting Oikawa's swollen scent glands. His other hand tracing fingers up and down the omega’s clothed pussy.
Their closeness seemed to erase the figurative space between them, and they moved together with an unspoken rhythm. Oikawa felt completely immersed in Iwaizumi's presence, their lips only inches apart in a flash of time. Neither of them moved, caught in the silent pull between them, each too mesmerized to look away. Oikawa could feel his pulse quicken, his cheeks warming as Iwaizumi’s face inched just a bit closer. His heart was in his throat, and he could feel the tiniest spark of hope flaring to life in his chest.
He could smell Iwaizumi’s musky earthy scent more clearly. If you were to ask Oikawa, the alpha smelled like his childhood and the moments he spent in Argentina missing that scent. It was everything that made him feel like he could conquer the field he chose to strive in. When they got married, Hajime smelled like home.
He felt complete, everything was perfect–
Suddenly, a harsh buzzing sound shattered the moment. Iwaizumi’s ringtone blared from his phone, echoing through the quiet room. They both froze, Oikawa’s face falling slightly as the alpha’s shoulders slumped. With a heavy sigh, Iwaizumi glanced at his phone, and his expression shifted to one of mild frustration as he saw the caller ID.
“It’s my boss,” Iwaizumi murmured, regret in his eyes as he looked back at Oikawa, his hand giving an apologetic squeeze on his hips. “I’m sorry, Tooru. Just give me a minute.” Iwaizumi could immediately catch Oikawa’s souring scent.
Oikawa pressed his lips together, fighting the urge to pout. He nodded, though disappointment consumed him as he watched Iwaizumi retreat toward their bedroom, phone to his ear. He could hear fragments of the conversation—“Yes, sir. I understand… No, I can come in right away if needed”—and a sinking feeling began to settle in his chest. The minutes dragged on as he waited, his gaze flickering toward the closed bedroom door.
When Iwaizumi finally reappeared, he had already changed into casual clothes, a clear sign he would be leaving soon.
Oikawa’s heart clenched, and he had to bite his lip to keep from voicing the protest bubbling up inside him. It wasn't fair that he’s not around, how could he leave his pregnant omega alone? He didn’t want to seem needy, to beg Iwaizumi to stay when he had work responsibilities.
But the disappointment was sharp, and he could feel his throat tightening, tears brimming as he looked away, his gaze fixed stubbornly on the floor. It wasn’t like he felt the need to remind Iwaizumi about leaving him again. He decides that he should react like how he should have reacted 6 months ago when Iwaizumi told him about his new job. All that Oikawa could do now was sigh as he collected his clothes.
Iwaizumi noticed the way Oikawa’s posture had shifted, already decent looking on the sofa. He took a step forward, softening his tone. “Tooru,” he said gently, reaching out but stopping short. “I’ll be back soon, okay?”
“Why did he call?”
Iwaizumi sighed heavily, “One of our athletes got injured during their late evening training, he didn’t say who. They want me to assess the extent of the injury and manage it. I’m sorry.”
Oikawa gave a small nod, but his voice was barely a whisper. “It’s okay… I get it.”
Iwaizumi frowned, sensing the undercurrent of sadness in his mate’s voice. He took another step closer, leaning down to meet Oikawa’s averted gaze. “Hey,” he murmured, trying to catch his eye. “It’s maybe just for a couple of hours. I’ll be right back here.”
Just a couple of hours. Nope. he can’t possibly hold out that long.
Oikawa finally looked up, his eyes watery, lips pressed into a thin line as he tried to keep his emotions at bay. “It’s… fine, Hajime. The person needing your medical attention is important. I understand.”
Iwaizumi’s heart clenched at the sight of Oikawa’s barely concealed disappointment. He knew he hadn’t been around as much as he should have been, and seeing how much this affected Oikawa reminded him just how much he needed to be there. He was leaving his pregnant mate alone at night, what an alpha.
Guilt flooded him, and he couldn’t stop himself from leaning forward, pressing a gentle kiss to Oikawa’s forehead.
“I’ll be back as soon as I can, I promise,” he whispered, his thumb brushing over Oikawa’s cheek in a tender, lingering touch. “Try to get some rest, alright?”
Oikawa gave a small, reluctant nod, his gaze softening for a moment. “Just… be safe,” he murmured, his voice tinged with a quiet vulnerability.
Iwaizumi offered him a small smile. “I will.” With one last reassuring squeeze of his hand, he reluctantly turned toward the door, casting a glance back before he stepped out.
As the door clicked shut behind him, Oikawa sat back against the couch, feeling the quiet of the apartment settle around him like a heavy weight. The heated moment they’d shared just minutes ago felt like a distant memory, the warmth and closeness replaced by the ache of loneliness.
Great. He was sad and horny. He didn’t even feel like touching himself, not when what he wanted just walked right out of the door.
Why did his boss have to call him anyway! Couldn’t they have called another medical person or something? Ugh it’s literally night time, it wasn’t even Iwaizumi’s office hours anymore!
He did feel bad with whoever got injured though…
He wrapped his arms around his belly, staring at the empty spot where Iwaizumi had been, wondering if he would ever truly feel secure in this new reality with him.
Iwaizumi returned home exactly 2 hours later as promised, exhaustion clinging to him as he unlocked the door and stepped inside. Thankfully, Komori only sustained a minor injury. It affected his overall physical performance though, which was why Iwaizumi was called, so they could discuss it.
The apartment was quiet, save for the low hum of the television in the living room. As he moved further inside, he spotted Oikawa still on the sofa. He seemed lost in whatever was playing on the TV, his gaze flickering toward the screen but clearly distracted, his expression distant.
Oikawa glanced up as Iwaizumi approached, his body tensing slightly but not making any move to leave. Iwaizumi took a careful breath, setting his things down and moving to stand near the sofa. He felt the weight of the silence between them, heavy with unspoken words, the unaddressed tension simmering just beneath the surface.
His heart pounding in his chest. The tension between them was palpable, and he knew this conversation was long overdue. He practiced this conversation way too many times during the drive home, he was not going to chicken out.
After a moment, Iwaizumi spoke softly, his tone hesitant. “Tooru,” he began, voice gentle, “we need to talk. I can’t take this anymore.” I can’t spend another day feeling like you’re worlds away.
Oikawa didn’t move, but his voice was calm, almost detached. “About what?”
Iwaizumi sighed, running a hand through his hair. “You know what.”
Oikawa let out a deep exhale, mirroring Iwaizumi’s frustration. Iwaizumi took a tentative step closer, feeling the weight of every word he was about to say. “Why didn’t you tell me?”
Oikawa finally looked up at him, his expression guarded. “I… I don’t know.” He took a pause, “I wanted to tell you, but when you left… my pride told me not to lose to you.”
Iwaizumi clenched his fists at his sides, guilt gnawing at him. “When did you find out?”
Oikawa gave him a knowing look.
“You found out when you fainted on the court…”
“Yes.”
“And?”
“And I was scared, okay?” Oikawa’s voice wavered as he stood up, pacing the room like he needed to move to keep from breaking down. “I wasn’t expecting this to happen. I didn’t know what to do or how to feel when the doctor told me. Then, you were so angry that day. And I saw the news articles. I didn’t want you to think I was making things worse–”
Iwaizumi’s chest tightened at the thought. “I would’ve listened if you told me. You know I would.”
“You didn’t even call after my scandal!” Oikawa snapped, his voice filled with hurt. “I waited for you. I wanted to take back what I said, I wanted to apologize.” Oikawa poured every ounce of heartbreak in his words.
“Do you know how pathetic it is that I only get to see my mate on TV? And I couldn’t even look at our stupid wedding ring! I know you don’t wear it anymore, I saw your hand when you explained stuff to the reporters. And I couldn’t even take mine off! It hurt that it looked so easy for you to forget about me!”
Iwaizumi’s heart sank. He stepped forward, his voice thick with emotion. “I didn’t call because I was hurt when you told me not to take the job. I thought you’d be happy for me, and we’d figure it out. But I didn’t understand why you didn’t want me to go.”
Oikawa turned to face him, his eyes filled with unshed tears. “And as for my wedding ring…” Iwaizumi reached into his pocket, revealing the glimmer of the other half of Oikawa’s wedding ring dangling on a chain. “I couldn’t wear it on my hand because every time I saw it, I felt guilty…because I knew deep down that I was wrong and maybe I didn’t want this risk anymore.”
Oikawa’s lip quivered, and he blinked back tears. “So why didn’t you call? Why didn’t you reach out to me? I’ve been the one calling, texting, trying to fix this for weeks. I realized my mistakes and I wanted to make it right between us again.”
“I was angry, what you said hurt my ego.” Iwaizumi admitted, his voice low. “And my pride got in the way. I was selfish. I didn’t mean to hurt you, but I know I did.”
“ I was being selfish, I’m sorry.” Oikawa admitted he wasn’t naive; he had his moments too.
“You knew how I felt about…motherhood and my ambitions…it didn’t align with our jobs. I get it okay? It’s fine if you don’t want this with me–” Oikawa knows that inevitably he would become a mother, and he was fine with that, he’d love to be one. Though he only ever wanted to be one when volleyball wouldn’t disrupt that lifestyle. And it's fine if Iwaizumi doesn't want this with him because he does. That was enough.
“No, Tooru, it’s not like that,” Iwaizumi said, his voice desperate. “Please just listen, I don't expect anything from you, I want you to know that I'm serious okay? I was wrong for leaving you. But I'm here right now and I want to prove to you that I can be better.”
“I know you don’t want to settle down,” Oikawa continued, his voice breaking. “You never mentioned kids. We never talked about it, so it’s fine if you go. I can handle raising her by myself.” He said the words as though he believed them, but the tears in his eyes betrayed him.
It felt so weird to see Oikawa radiate with independence and responsibility when between the both of them, it has always been Iwaizumi.
Iwaizumi’s breath caught in his throat. “What? No, Tooru, you’re not listening—”
“We can arrange schedules so she gets to know you,” Oikawa interrupted, shaking his head. “We can get a divorce so it’s easier.”
“I know what you want, Iwaizumi . I know it was wrong for me to hold you back when you have been nothing but supportive of me.”
Don’t call me that. I'm not just Iwaizumi to you. I have never been just Iwaizumi to you.
Iwaizumi couldn't bear losing Oikawa again. He was going to take a huge step forward and show his devotion.
“I want to start a family with you, Tooru.”
Oikawa quiets when he hears that. Jaw almost dropping to the floor. He didn’t know Iwaizumi wanted kids. He never showed signs he wanted kids. Why is he saying he wants kids?
“I…just didn’t say anything because I knew how you felt about it. And I didn't want to hold you back from opportunities because I knocked you up. I won't leave, I'll stay and ask for your forgiveness, no matter how long it takes. I care about you, not just the baby.”
Iwaizumi walks over to Oikawa. Oikawa steps back.
The omega is scared, he can’t help but radiate with fear. But Iwaizumi only steps forward from every step back Oikawa makes.
“I’ve thought about it. Really, really thought about it. Ever since you left Japan, I thought I lost my chance. You are in every future that I dream of, I don't want it to be anyone else but you.”
Oikawa holds his breath. No, he cannot let his heart get broken again. “That doesn't mean you want to have this with me.”
“It's okay if you don't want to believe me just yet. I'll stay even if you want me to leave. I'll be here every step of the way and I wouldn’t mind settling down because…”
“Stop it, you’re just trying to–”
Iwaizumi takes a deep breath before saying, “Because I know it will be with you.”
“I know I always tease you about that. And I'm terrified at the thought of being a parent.” Iwaizumi is in front of Oikawa now, holding the omega’s trembling hands. “But raising a family with you? I can't live on knowing that I lost that chance again.” Oikawa almost forgets to breathe. All he wants to do is sob on Iwaizumi’s chest at the moment.
Iwaizumi tucks a stray hair from Oikawa’s face, “I don't mind that at all.”
Iwaizumi held Oikawa’s hands more firmly in his. Oikawa almost wants to pull away. Iwaizumi looks him in the eyes. “And I’d rather lose my job than lose you.”
“Don’t be stupid, Iwaizumi. You worked so hard for your career. I know you love your job.”
“I love you more.”
The frantic beating of Oikawa’s heart slowed into the unmistakable tune of love instead of the vengeful strumming of sorrow. He said every word as if it were fate, offering each beat of his heart.
It felt almost foreign to hear Hajime say i love you to him. Oikawa wanted to drop to the floor and cry his eyes out. He wanted to immediately slam back into Hajime's arms,and he would catch him like he always did. He waited for so long just to hear Hajime say that to him again.
“I hate you.” The omega barely says through hiccups and tears. Oikawa doesn’t mean that. He also knows that Iwaizumi knows he doesn’t mean that.
“I’m so sorry, my love…” Iwaizumi wipes the tears off Oikawa’s face. Iwaizumi murmured, pulling Oikawa into a gentle embrace.
For a long moment, they stayed like that—wrapped in each other’s arms, the silence filled with unspoken words and unacknowledged fears. But in that silence, their broken relationship built itself back up. Oikawa sniffled, his face pressed against Iwaizumi’s chest. “I’m still mad at you.”
“I know,” Iwaizumi said softly, his fingers brushing through Oikawa’s hair. “And I’ll spend the rest of my life making it up to you.”
Oikawa pulled back slightly, looking up at him with tear-streaked cheeks and puffy eyes. “You better,” he mumbled, though a small, tentative smile tugged at his lips.
Iwaizumi let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding, his heart swelling with relief as he leaned down to finally press a soft kiss to Oikawa’s lips. He no longer wanted to let this opportunity slip by, for he had waited so long and was eagerly longing to feel the kiss of his beloved once again.
He felt the omega jolt at the sudden contact. It was tentative at first, a quiet, almost fragile gesture, but as Oikawa kissed him back, it deepened into something more—a promise.
Kissing felt too inmate so neither the alpha and omega made a move to initiate it during their sexual intercourse. It felt like something you couldn’t just give to anyone. It seemed to have a deeper meaning than other things. It was as if you were giving a part of your soul, something you deeply cherished.
When they finally pulled away, Oikawa rested his forehead against Iwaizumi, their breaths mingling in the quiet space between them.
He sighed, shifting slightly. “Now help me get back in bed before my back gives out. This baby’s heavy.”
Iwaizumi chuckled again, helping Oikawa walk back into their bedroom and carefully tucking him in, his hands gentle as he adjusted the pillows to make Oikawa more comfortable. “You okay?” he asked, his voice laced with concern as he laid down beside him.
Oikawa nodded, though there was a weariness in his eyes that hadn’t been there before. “Yeah. Just tired. And my back hurts like hell.”
Oikawa let out a sigh and turned to Iwaizumi with a playful glint in his eye. “I kid you not,” he started, barely suppressing a grin, “I cried for like 30 minutes when the new Godzilla movie trailer played on TV.”
Iwaizumi raised a brow, clearly amused. “Over the new Godzilla trailer?”
Oikawa shrugged dramatically, pressing a hand to his heart as if reliving the experience. “It reminded me too much of you! It was kinda stupid. I don’t know.”
Iwaizumi laughed, the sound warm and hearty, and Oikawa couldn’t help but giggle along with him. “It’s not stupid,” Iwaizumi teased, reaching over to settle his hand over Oikawa’s belly. “It was probably my fault anyway.”
“I missed you,” Oikawa whispered after a moment, his voice soft and vulnerable. “Even though I am with you this past week. It didn’t feel like I was until right now.”
“I missed you too, baby.” Iwaizumi said quietly, his hands never stopping to rub Oikawa’s back.
It felt good not to restrain himself from calling Oikawa baby . He saw the omega’s face light up at the nickname, he knew that Oikawa liked it when he called him baby .
His hands had to let go of this love. He ran, as if the past was chasing him, forcing him to return. He was happy that he did, because if he hadn't, the world would have completely swallowed him up. He would never again see the face of his omega, with eyes closed and bathed in the light of the moon.
The months leading up to Oikawa’s due date were some of the most peaceful he had experienced in years, despite the inevitable discomforts of pregnancy. His back aches constantly, his ankles—and really, everything—were swollen beyond belief, and he missed the ease of simple movements.
But compared to the relentless nausea of his first trimester, this was nothing . Morning sickness had mercifully left him, and he was grateful every day that he could eat without feeling queasy.
While he and Iwaizumi hadn’t miraculously fixed everything between them overnight, they were both committed to the process. They were healing, not just as a couple but as co-parents in this new journey. Long, heartfelt conversations had become routine, often stretching late into the night as they lay beside each other, speaking in quiet tones about their fears, hopes, and everything in between.
Oikawa shared stories of his pregnancy’s ups and downs, the bizarre cravings, the tender moments, and the times he could feel the baby moving (and poking at his organs) , a light flutter that made his heart ache with joy.
Iwaizumi listened intently, holding Oikawa’s hand as he did, grounding them both.
In those moments, Oikawa found himself wanting nothing more than to stay cocooned in that warmth. Each morning as Iwaizumi left for work, it took every ounce of self-control for Oikawa not to cling to him, though he always lingered by the door, watching until Iwaizumi disappeared down the street.
Oikawa’s father had been icy with Iwaizumi for a while, casting cold glances and making pointed remarks that made even Iwaizumi’s sturdy composure falter. But Oikawa managed to gently ease the tension, quietly convincing his father to soften up. After all, Iwaizumi was the father of his granddaughter. Despite this, Iwaizumi looked thoroughly uncomfortable every time they had a family gathering at Oikawa’s home, his face shifting between forced politeness and outright discomfort. Oikawa had to stifle laughter each time, finding Iwaizumi’s expressions unexpectedly adorable.
On the other hand, Oikawa’s mother and sister were a breath of fresh air, treating Iwaizumi with patience and even a bit of kindness. They’d chuckle and tell him, “Marriages aren’t easy, you know. We’d be hypocrites if we said we haven’t been through rough patches, too.”
Then there was Iwaizumi’s father. He had been a force to reckon with, immediately drilling into Iwaizumi with lectures that lasted for what felt like hours. Every word was pointed, almost scolding, yet underlined with love and disappointment. Iwaizumi’s father didn’t hold back, telling his son he hadn’t raised him to be reckless. But beneath the harsh tone, it was clear that the elder Iwaizumi still cared deeply, and after his stern talk, he too softened, letting his guard down just a bit. Once that lecture was over, he would go quiet, then coo softly at Oikawa and the baby, showing his softer side in his own way.
Matsukawa and Hanamaki was a magnetic pull they could not shake. Oikawa still couldn’t figure out where they stood romantically though so he and Iwaizumi would just tease them all the time.
True to his word, Hinata often came by, bringing a sense of cheerful chaos with him. He’d call ahead, asking if he could come by to check on Oikawa and the baby. Sometimes catching a ride with Iwaizumi after work. He brought little gifts and stories, his excitement spilling over every time he was around. Sometimes, he’d bring Kageyama along, and Oikawa delighted in the chance to tease Kageyama about his obvious romantic interest in Hinata.
Every visit was the same: Oikawa would smirk and ask Kageyama when he was finally going to stop being a wimp, “So, Tobio, when are you finally going to ask Shoyo out?” Kageyama would turn a bright red, avoiding the teasing with a scowl and muttered denial, which only made Oikawa laugh harder.
One evening, after they’d left, Iwaizumi raised an eyebrow at Oikawa.
“Is something going on with those two?” he asked, brow furrowed in genuine curiosity.
Oikawa chuckled, nodding. “Oh, you have no idea. They’re both hopeless. It’s this whole thing where they’re practically in love but won’t admit it to each other.”
Iwaizumi shook his head, incredulous. “Really? Those two haven’t talked about it yet?”
“Not even close,” Oikawa replied, sharing a look of exasperation with Iwaizumi. They both laughed, marveling at the awkwardness of young love, it was familiar because Oikawa was sure that he also described them in highschool.
Oikawa’s team and his coach would check in every so often, calling or texting to see how he was doing and, without fail, asking when they’d get to meet the baby. Each time, he’d dodge the question with a vague answer, feeling grateful that Blanco was keeping his pregnancy from the public eye. The intense media management left Oikawa with some peace of mind, and he found himself thanking Blanco silently more than once.
Then, one early morning, Oikawa woke up to a wet bed. In a sleepy daze, he blinked, only to realize with a sudden jolt that his water had broken. This wasn’t a false alarm—it was happening. Heart pounding, he tried to stay calm, breathing slowly to avoid panicking.
Iwaizumi was by his side in an instant, calm and steady. He helped Oikawa out of bed, rubbing soothing circles on his back as he led him to the car. The whole drive, he squeezed Oikawa’s hand three times in their own way of saying “I love you,” murmuring reassurances and keeping Oikawa grounded.
At the hospital, the labor was intense. Oikawa gripped Iwaizumi’s hands, squeezing so hard he knew he’d leave bruises, but Iwaizumi didn’t flinch. Instead, he whispered words of encouragement, anchoring Oikawa through every wave of pain.
Hours later, with a final, exhausted push, Oikawa heard the first cries of their child. He barely registered the nurses moving around him as his head fell back against the pillow, feeling an exhaustion unlike anything he’d known. He drifted to sleep almost immediately.
When he woke, the first thing he saw was Iwaizumi, standing beside him, cradling their tiny daughter with the gentlest expression Oikawa had ever seen on his face. The sight took his breath away, and Iwaizumi, sensing his gaze, looked over and smiled. “You did amazing,” he whispered, his voice filled with warmth. Carefully, he helped Oikawa sit up, then placed their pup into his arms.
She snuggled closer to him, recognizing her mother, and Oikawa felt his heart melt as he cooed softly at her. That one gesture alone was almost enough to wipe away the exhaustion that he felt.
Choosing her name became an intense debate between him and Iwaizumi, with each having strong opinions, but not enough to truly argue. In the end, Oikawa won, of course.
(You're not the one giving birth, Iwa-chan.)
He grinned as he looked down at their daughter and greeted her for the first time with her new name, “Kyoki, my love.” As he held their daughter close, her tiny hand curled around one of his fingers.
Iwaizumi nestled close to them, wrapping his arms around his small family. It was too early to tell but Iwaizumi was sure she would have Oikawa’s hair, his spark, maybe even his stubbornness. (Just like her name.)
Oikawa looked down at her, at the little life they’d created together, and felt a wave of emotion crash over him. Every ounce of struggle was worth it. He can't imagine his life without their pup.
It was interrupted when he caught sight of Iwaizumi’s hand and wrist bandaged up. “What happened to your hand?” Oikawa asks while patting their pup on her back.
Iwaizumi shrugs, he doesn’t want to break up this moment just yet. He’ll tell his omega the truth later. “Nothing important, baby.”
Oikawa may have squeezed his hand too tight, nevermind that. It was worth it. Hajime didn't care whether all his limbs were broken. He would do anything to guarantee Oikawa’s support and the pup’s safe delivery. Nothing was too harsh or too impossible when it came to Oikawa.
No matter what happens, he promises to himself that he will never let this go. This was something within his grasp, something he has already reached.
Something that he will fight to keep.