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“Oooook, are you sure you have everything?”
Yuuki, who’s not quite so little anymore, nods enthusiastically.
“I got everything mama. I got my backpack and my bento and my shoes,” Yuuki lifts each thing to show to his mother as he mentions it, feeling very proud of his ensemble.
It’s Yuuki’s first official day of school! And after so long and so much time spent with him, Rin is more nervous about this than he’s ever been about anything in his life.
When it was determined that Yuuki didn’t need to attend Kindergarten, and could instead begin his compulsory education later, Rin and Yoichi made the decision to essentially homeschool, using the enrichment material they preferred.
That was for the first few years of Yuuki’s life, but now that he’s turned six, it’s time for him to start attending elementary!
It feels like the time has flown so fast, Rin can hardly believe it.
In the moment, he tries to be as engaged as possible and not fret too much. He adjusts the lapels on Yuuki’s shirt once again, running his fingers through his thick mane of hunter green locks, so similar to his own.
Rin can hear Yuuki release an exasperated huff.
“Mama. You’ve done that three times in the past five minutes.”
The Omega pouts, squatting down to be on Yuuki’s level.
“I know, I know, but I can’t help it. Mama’s…nervous.”
Yuuki looks genuinely confused.
“Why?”
Rin averts his gaze before looking back.
“Well, this is your first day of school ever. You’re gonna be away from me and in a new environment, surrounded by new things and people. I just want you to be safe and have fun, but I also don’t want to have to be away from you. You’re still my little baby,” he reaches and lightly pinches Yuuki’s cheek, who shares a giggle with him, “even if you are growing up.”
Setting down his lunch bag, Yuuki tosses himself into Rin’s arms, hugging his mama tightly.
“It’ll be ok mama,” he speaks, voice somewhat muffled. “I promise. I’m a big boy now after all!”
Rin is a little taken aback at the gesture, eyes widening before suddenly filling with tears. He squeezes his baby back, gently rocking them side to side.
“Ok, little fella, I trust you.”
Yuuki pulls away, but not before leaving a little kiss on Rin’s cheek, one which he readily returns.
“Ok, now we gotta go! I don’t wanna be late.”
Rin gasps, eyes shooting toward the clock.
“Oh my goodness, you’re right! Come on, let’s go wake daddy and do one last check and then we’ll leave.”
With a nod, Yuuki sets down his backpack as well, before he and Rin make their way into his and Yoichi’s bedroom.
The man is still asleep, having taken the latest flight home from an away game so that he could be present for Yuuki’s first day. Rin had contemplated waking him earlier, but decided that he’d rather let him sleep since most of Yuuki’s first day preparation only needed one parent’s assistance.
“Yoichi,” Rin speaks with a low tone, so as not to disturb his Alpha too harshly. He lightly shakes him, and after a few seconds, the man begins to stir.
Groaning, Yoichi turns over, blinking the sleep from his eyes. Once he recognizes what’s going on, he smiles.
“You ready for your first day, little fella?”
Yuuki grins, nodding.
“Yep! I got my backpack and my bento and my shoes and everything!” He goes through his mental checklist one more time.
Leaning down, Yoichi lifts his son up onto the bed with him, and the two squeeze into a tight, loving hug.
“Have a good day, my son. Be good, and make lots of new friends, ok?”
Yuuki nods. “Ok!”
“Be careful on the road baby,” Yoichi addresses Rin now, who leans down for a kiss. “I’ll probably be up by the time you get back.”
“No need to rush love,” Rin assures. “I know you’re most likely still tired from getting back so late.”
Yoichi just nods. “Alright, well, you two better get going. Don’t wanna be late!”
Pulling up to the school is somewhat daunting for Rin.
There’s so many unfamiliar faces, but it seems everyone is chatting and holding pleasant conversation so easily.
It’s as if they all know each other, and Rin’s been left out of the loop.
He clutches the steering wheel tighter, trying to even out his breathing.
“Mama?”
He looks in the rearview mirror. Yuuki’s eyes meet his own, his little brows scrunched in concern.
“Are you ok?”
Is he ok?
After a brief moment of contemplation, Rin nods. “Yeah baby, mama’s fine. Just-...trying to be calm is all.”
Yuuki still looks a little unsure, but doesn’t press the issue, for which Rin is thankful.
Eventually, he finds a spot to park and helps Yuuki out- making sure, once again, that he’s got everything.
As the two begin to make their way up to the entrance, they’re greeted by multiple staff members and people in green shirts who are, apparently, very enthusiastic parent volunteers. They seem to have formed some sort of cheer squad, and they applaud and bow to Yuuki and Rin as they approach.
“Good morning! Have a happy first day!” One lady calls out, a few more cheering in agreement and parrotting her words.
Rin smiles and nods, already feeling much better about the whole situation.
He and Yoichi did a lot of research when determining which school to send Yuuki to. They eventually chose to send him to Kuoh Academy, which is sort of like the Japanese equivalent of an American Magnet academy. Kuoh is considered a more prestigious institution, with an emphasis placed on the arts and individual expression for the students.
Both Rin and Yoichi thought something like that would be more suitable for Yuuki, who demonstrated a keen interest in music and dance from practically the womb.
In the present moment, as Rin observes the interior of the school, he appreciates the obvious attempts made to make the place feel welcoming and age appropriate.
It’s clear that with the funding the school receives, there’s overall a more modern, sleek appearance- almost futuristic, if Rin’s being honest. But, in order to possibly not intimidate the students and new parents, there’s lots of added color and things like welcome banners, informational posters and other decorations.
Eventually, Rin and Yuuki are encountered by a smartly dressed woman sporting a large, friendly smile.
“Good morning! My name is Ms. Yuri, I’m the Vice Principal. Hmm, I don’t quite recognize your faces…you must be new to the district?”
Rin nods. “Yes, this is my son’s first year and first day of school ever.” The Omega squeezes Yuuki’s hand, which he’d been holding tightly as they made their way through the school.
Ms. Yuri’s smile seems to brighten further. “Really? That’s wonderful! Let me extend a personal thank you for choosing Kuoh Academy for your son’s education. We promise to do our utmost to foster his talents and prepare him well for all his future endeavors. And I don’t say that lightly.”
She squats, getting on Yuuki’s level.
“Hello! To whom do I have the pleasure of speaking?”
Yuuki smiles. “My name is Yuuki! Isagi Yuuki.”
The woman’s eyes widen in recognition. Rin mentally prepares to potentially be bombarded with questions, but Ms. Yuri only maintains her smile and nods.
“Well, it is a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Yuuki. You ready for your first day?”
The boy nods. “Yep! I got my backpack, and my bento, and my shoes and I’m ready!”
‘ It’s so cute how he does that every time,’ Rin smiles to himself.
“Alrighty then, I’ll let you all proceed to the assembly. It’ll be just in the auditorium. Proceed down this hall and take a right, and you can’t miss it.”
“Thank you Ms. Yuri.” Rin pauses. “Oh! How rude of me- Rin, Isagi Rin.” He extends a hand, which Ms. Yuri dutifully takes and shakes firmly.
“I hope this doesn’t come off as strange to say, but my husband, son and I are big fans of your husband’s. We try to keep up with watching all of his games.”
Rin smiles. “It’s not strange at all. Thank you for the support.”
Ms. Yuri nods. “The assembly will start shortly. If I don’t see you again, have a wonderful rest of your day!” She gives a little wave before jetting off.
“She was nice mama.” Yuuki quips as they make their way down the hall.
“She was,” Rin agrees, locating the auditorium and ushering Yuuki inside.
The pair get seated and comfortable, and Rin takes a moment to observe the space.
It’s one of those large capacity auditoriums, that doubles as a theatre, with very surprisingly plush seating. It’s spotless, as is to be expected on the first day, no hint of trash or debris leftover from the previous year to be found. The stage itself is spacious and also clean, and there’s a screen that’s been lowered, presumably to show some sort of video or presentation.
Once a majority of the students and parents are settled, more staff and volunteers come around offering noise makers and ribbon streamers. Rin is a little confused as to why, but assumes there will probably be some sort of interactive portion or portions of the assembly that will require use of the party favors.
It’s not long after that the principal, Ms. Yuri and several more staff and faculty commence the assembly. Rin finds that he and Yuuki have a pretty fun time, as everyone seems very lively and genuinely excited about the upcoming year and all it entails. Lots of details about events and activities is given, and overall, the whole thing is very thorough, informative and reassuring for Rin’s nerves.
He was right about the party favors: at certain points, the audience is guided to cheer and make noise to celebrate different things as they are announced or happen up on stage. It’s quite cute.
The assembly lasts about thirty minutes, and then it’s time for the students and parents to part ways.
“Ok my sweet babe, it’s unfortunately time for us to part. Did you enjoy the assembly?”
Yuuki nods enthusiastically. “Yep, it was fun!”
Rin smiles, having kneeled so that he’s at eye level with his son.
“I’m glad you had a good time. Now, remember, be a good boy and like daddy said, make lots of new friends, ok? We’ll come pick you up once the day is over. I love you sooo much, my son.”
Yuuki nods once again. “Ok mama! I love you too! Have a good day!”
With that, he tosses himself into Rin’s arms for a quick hug, before pulling away and racing off to join the other students, who have formed a group as they await further instruction from one of the teachers.
Slowly standing, Rin takes several steadying breaths, determined not to cry in the middle of the hallway.
‘ My little baby is all grown up, he barely needs me anymore. Don’t cry Rin, that would be embarrassing.’
Clearing his throat, Rin turns on his heel and, with one more glance back at Yuuki, exits the school and makes his way to his vehicle.
The drive home is mostly silent, which is unusual for Rin. He’s usually got Yuuki in tow, and they could be found singing or chatting about any number of things.
He finds he sort of hates it, the silence.
Pulling into their driveway, he takes a moment to sit and compose himself.
Rin really doesn’t want to cry, but he’s just so overwhelmed that the tears begin trickling down his cheeks anyway. He quickly wipes them away, but more replace the previous ones steadily.
He’s so caught up that he doesn’t notice Yoichi exiting the house and approaching the car.
Knock, knock.
Two sharp raps on the window startle Rin out of his stupor. A very concerned looking Yoichi waves before trying to pull open the door.
“Baby? Are you alright?”
The Omega sighs, unlocking and opening the door before stepping out.
“Yeah, I’m fine. Just…a little sad is all.”
Yoichi looks surprised for a moment, before an understanding smile curls his lips.
“I can guess about what. Come on, let’s get you inside.”
It’s a little later in the day, still a few hours before time to pick up Yuuki, and Rin knows he’s probably glanced at the clock at least 30 times in anticipation.
“Rin baby, staring at the clock won’t make time move any faster. Just relax hun. Yuuki will be there when it’s time.”
The Omega glances at his Alpha, grumbling under his breath.
“I know, I know, but I just can’t help it. My instincts are practically screaming at me to go and scoop him up right this instant and never let him go. Oh, this was a terrible idea. We should’ve stuck with homeschooling. Is it too late for that? Wait, I think-...”
“Rin!”
Yoichi grasps his Omega’s shoulders, squeezing gently to calm him down.
“You're rambling baby. And overthinking so much I worry smoke’s going to come out of your ears.”
The Alpha chuckles as he places a sweet kiss on Rin's forehead, the Omega leaning into the touch as he settles.
Sighing, Rin pulls back, a pout formed on his lips.
“I just miss my little one so much. He's been with me practically every day for his entire life up to this point. And now look! He's so independent, he hardly needs me anymore. Not when he's got his backpack, and his bento and his shoes, and everything!”
Rin covers his face as he's suddenly sobbing.
He lifts his head, somewhat startling Yoichi, who seeks to comfort his obviously distressed mate.
“How do we make him stop growing up Yoichi? Hm? Riddle me that. It's…it's just not fair. I want him to stay my cute little baby forever. We're practically empty nesters now. First it's this, then he'll be on his way to high school, then college and one day my Yuuki will be out there all on his own, pursuing his dreams and forgetting all about his poor mama.”
The tears, which had somewhat dried, return.
Yoichi sighs, but smiles nevertheless, finding this behavior from his Omega rather endearing.
“I suppose I understand where you're coming from my love. But you've got to learn to be unafraid to let Yuuki explore and spread his wings. Him growing is inevitable, and as the world expands, so too will he. And as his parents, we have to accept that, and nurture and guide him through the process.”
Yoichi cups Rin's cheeks, pulling him into a soft kiss.
“I know you're his mother, and if you could have your way, you'd keep our baby cooped up in here with you for safe keeping for all time,” The man chuckles again. “But that's just not feasible. Nor is it fair. It'll be ok, my love. I promise.”
The pout becomes more prominent.
“Y'know, I hate how utterly reasonable you can be sometimes. It's so annoying.”
Yoichi laughs aloud, squishing Rin's cheeks and nuzzling his nose, causing the Omega to subconsciously purr.
“Oh hush. What would you even do without me?”
Yoichi stands, gesturing for Rin to follow.
“Come along. Let us prepare the nest for family nap time once Yuuki returns.”
It's finally time to pick up Yuuki and Rin is practically vibrating in his seat from excitement and relief.
He’s been absentmindedly mumbling beneath his breath the whole car ride thus far, and Yoichi can't help but smile at his Omega’s cute habit.
“Baby?”
“Hm?” Rin hums distractedly.
“I was thinking we should do something to celebrate Yuuki’s first day. Something small, nothing too extravagant, just enough to let him know how proud we are of him.”
Rin seems to consider it for just a moment before he perks up.
“Let's get ice cream! Yuuki loves ice cream. We can go to that new parlor a little ways from the house. It'll be such a nice surprise.”
Rin sounds giddy from the prospect, and Yoichi’s glad he made the initial suggestion.
Soon, they arrive at the school. Just in time too, as they hear the bell signaling the day's end chime.
Yoichi can tell that Rin is trying his absolute hardest to refrain from running inside and locating their son on his own, but they were given specific instructions about how to go about the pickup process.
A special sticker of the student's name, provided by the school, is to be attached to the windshield of the parent's vehicle. Once one of the strategically placed end of day monitors sees it, they'll radio inside for that particular student. The child is then escorted out to their car.
Yoichi and Rin are early, and the outside monitor smiles politely upon seeing them. Once she's registered who they're there to pick up, she radios for Yuuki.
Rin's practically holding his breath as he waits, and Yoichi suppresses chuckles.
After some moments, Yuuki comes bounding out of the school, accompanied by another adult, who makes sure that he gets to the car safely.
Before Yoichi can speak, Rin has exited the car once Yuuki’s been released, scooping his baby up and into a tight hug.
“Hi mama! I had a good day today!”
“I'm so glad my baby! Mama missed you soooo much!”
With that, Rin helps his pup get settled in his car seat, who talks to his father next.
“Hey little man! I hear you had a good day?”
“Yep!” Yuuki giggles. “I even made some new friends.”
“That's amazing my son. Daddy's so happy for you.”
Once Yuuki is secure, Rin returns to his seat. The little family waves to the end of day monitors as they leave, and soon they're making their way to the ice cream parlor, Yuuki excitedly regaling them with all the details of his first day along the way.
He gasps once he sees where they've arrived as Yoichi pulls up to the parlor, his parents sharing a smile between them.
“We're getting ice cream?!”
“Yep! We wanted to do a little something special to celebrate your first day. Come on, let's see what's inside.”
Exiting the car, the Isagi family makes their way inside the parlor, Yuuki hand in hand with both his parents and bouncing excitedly.
They're greeted warmly by the staff, which appears to consist of a young woman and a slightly older man.
“Welcome! We hope you find everything to your satisfaction today.” The girl speaks, smiling kindly.
“Thank you. We saw you guys are new to the neighborhood and wanted to come support.”
The older man speaks next, a smile plastered on his face.
“How very kind of you. We greatly appreciate your patronage. So, how can we be of service? We have several different flavor options for ice cream, and a self serve frozen yogurt station just to your right on the wall.” The man gestures as he talks.
“Oh, you also have frozen yogurt? I wasn't aware.” Rin's interest is immediately peaked.
“What's that mama? I've never had frozen yogurt.”
Rin chuckles.
“It's basically the same as ice cream love, just that it's yogurt that's been chilled. It tastes pretty similar too.”
Yuuki hums, intrigued. “Is that what you're gonna get?”
Rin considers it for a moment. “Maybe. I'll have to see what all flavors they have before I make my decision.”
Nodding, Yuuki turns to Yoichi. “What about you daddy?”
Yoichi places a finger to his chin as he thinks. “I'm thinking chocolate. Or maybe sweet bean paste if that's an option.”
“I want cookie dough!” Yuuki exclaims excitedly, causing both his parents to chuckle.
“Well, let's see if they have it.”
The little family spends about fifteen minutes perusing the flavor options and trying samples of the ones and flavor combinations foreign to them.
Eventually, Yoichi settles on a sweet bean paste/Kintsuba inspired ice cream cup, Yuuki gets his treasured cookie dough and Rin gets oreo flavored fro-yo.
“Here sweet babe, you wanna try some of mama's frozen yogurt?” Rin holds out his spoon, a small amount of the cream perched on it.
Yuuki nods, taking the bite and considering the flavor for a moment.
“Mmm, it is like ice cream! Is it also healthier because it's yogurt and not as sweet?”
Rin nods. “I suppose you could say that.”
“Would you also like to try some of daddy's?” Yoichi speaks from Yuuki’s left side.
“Sure!” Yuuki takes the little bit of proffered ice cream from his father, taking a moment to adjust to the taste. His little nose wrinkles slightly at the flavor.
“It's pretty good. Not too sweet, but it leaves a kinda funny aftertaste. The flavor reminds me of baa-baa .”
Yoichi and Rin chuckle at Yuuki's observation.
“Really? How interesting. Oh! That gives me an idea. Why don't we call her later and you can tell her all about your first day?”
Yuuki nods enthusiastically. “Yeah! We should.”
The Isagi’s spend thirty or so more minutes enjoying their desserts before making their way up to the counter to pay.
“Was everything to your satisfaction today?” The girl behind the counter smiles brightly.
“Yes! Everything we tried was delicious, thanks.” Rin returns her smile.
With a nod, Kimiko, as indicated by her name tag, begins ringing everything up. Yoichi pulls out a random card from his wallet to pay.
“Would you like your receipt?”
“Yes please.”
As Kimiko hands Yoichi his receipt, the older man, presumably the owner, reappears.
“Thank you again for coming today. You all are actually our first customers. We sincerely hope that our product was to your standards, and that you'll come again.”
“We will! Thank you again!”
With parting waves from all three Isagi family members, Rin, Yoichi and Yuuki load into their car and begin the trip home.
“Thank you for the ice cream. It was really good!”
“Aww, you're more than welcome my baby. Daddy and I are so proud of you for making it through your first day of school.” Rin meets Yuuki’s eyes in the rearview mirror.
“Yep. You know what time it is now?” Yoichi pipes up.
Yuuki hesitates for a moment as he thinks, before perking up.
“Family nap time!”
“Mhm, family nap time.”
Once the Isagi’s arrive home and have gotten settled in their nest, Yoichi pulls out his phone so Yuuki can call his obāsan.
“Hi baa-baa !”
“Hello my Yuuki! How are you?”
“I'm good. I had my first day of school today! It was fun!”
“You did? Well that's wonderful! I'm so proud of you. Did you make lots of friends?”
Yuuki nods and hums. “Yep! Everyone liked my backpack, and my bento and my shoes….”
Rin and Yoichi chuckle from where they’re snuggled up, watching and listening as Iyo and Yuuki speak.
The pair continue their conversation for a few minutes more, before a sudden yawn catches Yuuki by surprise.
“Oh! Is someone a little sleepy?”
“Yeah, today was really fun but also kinda tiring.”
Iyo chuckles. “Well alright, obāsan will let you go. Rest is important after all. I love you.”
“Love you too baa-baa ! Talk to you later!”
“Bye mother.” Yoichi speaks, followed by Rin, who bids his mother in law farewell also.
“Bye bye everyone! Enjoy your nap!”
With that, the call ends, and Yuuki returns his father's phone, which he quickly puts on DND and places on the bedside table.
“Alright, I believe that should be everything. Now we can nap in peace.”
Yoichi pulls both Rin and Yuuki closer to him, a low purr beginning in his chest.
In response to their Alpha, Rin and Yuuki begin purring as well. It only takes a few minutes more, and soon the Isagi’s are off in dreamland, sleeping soundly, cuddled in each other's embrace.