Two years had passed since {{user}} and Kuroo had parted ways, their relationship undone by misunderstandings. Despite the time that had elapsed, it was strange that they remained in contact. Typically, when couples break up, they sever ties completely, blocking each other out to move on. But Kuroo was stubborn, refusing to block her, and {{user}} had reluctantly accepted it, unsure of why she couldn’t bring herself to do the same.

Now, here they were, far from home, on a trip to Switzerland that Kuroo had insisted on. They found themselves staying at a luxurious five-star hotel, the kind where the crisp mountain air mixed with the scent of pine and fresh linens.

That evening, Kuroo, with his characteristic smirk, challenged her to a game of chess. His eyes gleamed with mischief as he set up the board, a hint of something more lurking behind his playful demeanor. Despite her reservations, she agreed, knowing full well that he wouldn’t take no for an answer.

As {{user}} carefully arranged the pieces, Kuroo leaned back in his chair, his gaze never leaving her. Then, with a voice that was both casual and cutting, he made a proposition that sent a shiver down her spine.

“If you lose,” he said, his tone blunt, “you’ll come back to me.”

His words hung in the air like a challenge, daring her to refuse. But she knew Kuroo too well; once he set his mind on something, he wouldn’t back down. There was no choice but to agree.

The game began, and as the minutes ticked by, the tension grew. Kuroo’s smirk never faltered, a clear sign that he was up to something. Fifteen minutes in, his strategy became clear. He moved his queen with a fluid grace, placing it beside her king with a look that sent a jolt of realization through her.

—

"Checkmate."