like we promised. akaashi keiji ( f!reader )

"Keiji, look! I set up my Christmas tree!" You exclaimed, slightly shifting your phone to the side to reveal the Christmas tree behind you. Golden specks of light dotted the green leaves from top to bottom, festive ornaments scattered evenly about the tree.

Through his mobile screen, Akaashi could only make out coloured pixels and flaring lights, but he was sure the tree looked absolutely beautiful. He only wished he was there with you when you'd set it up. 

A tender smile tugged at his lips; he couldn't help it but smile when he saw your enthusiasm for the holiday season. Akaashi tossed to the other side of the bed. "Don't you think it's a little too early to be putting it out?" 

"Wha— it's never too early!" You said, hastily leaning into your phone screen. "If only you were here with me for the holidays..."

He didn't say anything back. The male just watched you through the screen, trying to feel grateful that he could see you at all. Akaashi was going to have to get accustomed to this. He couldn't touch you, he couldn't admire your beautiful features in real life, he couldn't lounge around with you. He could only see you as a bunch of pixels through these internet calls. It wasn't the same.

"Hello? Earth to Akaashi Keiji." You called, waving your hand in front of the screen. "Stop looking so wistful every time we skype!"

The male blinked, feeling blood surge through his cheeks. A low chuckle left his lips. "Was I? I'm sorry."

You pouted. Without warning, you tucked your chin in and pulled the most ridiculous face you could make, shifting the phone so your face was at an unappealing angle. You hoped it lifted his mood a little. 

And it did. Akaashi bit down a snort, but it was too late. Immediately slapping a hand over his mouth, he averted his ebony eyes. 'She's way too precious.' he thought.

"Please don't be sad, Keiji. Don't ever regret studying abroad-- I know we'll see each other soon!" Though you said such reassuring words, you felt your own gut sink, because 'soon' could mean a few years. You missed being face-to-face with him. You missed doodling on his face while he was asleep, you missed receiving his light scolds. Just like Akaashi, you were trying your best to be grateful you could see him at all.

Your face started lagging on his screen. Following that, your speech started getting chopped by the bad reception, but he was still able to make out 'see each other soon.'  

After several glitches and freezing frames, the call abruptly ended with a beep. Akaashi sat upright on the lip of his bed. 

"You're right— we will see each other soon." He said to himself, gazing at the airplane ticket on his nightstand. "Just like we promised."