Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

♡♡♡

Katsuki had finished what he’d unexpectedly set out to do: he’d taken down the punk vying for his nerd’s attention. Even if the actual fight was one he’d won before the challenge had even been issued, he’d finished his journey. After all was said and done, and the dust had settled, he realized the trials and tribulations he experienced changed him— made him aware of how much a simple emotion like jealousy could change a person— how much of a ripple effect it could have on his and Izuku’s life.

He’d never intended to let his jealousy and anger take control of him like it had— hadn't anticipated things would turn out the way they did. In the end, he’d come out of the entire thing the most unscathed… the least actually hurt by the events that unfolded, even though he'd had the most impact in everything that went down. 

And he’d never meant for that… 

Never meant to inadvertently spur the teenage bastard on— to push the brat into the choices he made— events that may or may not have happened had Bakugo not fanned the flames. He could never truly know though. No one could.

… Well, not unless someone had a quirk that told the future. Or had simply been following along with their not-really-a-love-triangle drama from the beginning, and saw the small details that had sparked that fire under the fanboy's ass.

If he hadn’t risen to the fanboy’s challenge, would the bastard still have had the courage to confess? Would the punk have pushed to be so involved in Izuku’s life so much? He might have simply faded into the background of their lives. Or even if he had conveyed his true feelings to Deku, the nerd might have been able to smooth things over— might have been able to salvage the fragments of what was left…

But Katsuki made his choice, and in doing so, allowed it all to culminate into a brawl with a brat half his age— for a dork whom he never had to fear leaving him— whose attention he had captive for as long as they both lived.

So now Izuku was the one who bore the brunt of his actions… the weight of Katsuki’s consequences despite the fact that he had never been a willing participant in the first place. And Bakugo would have given anything to go back in time to change things— to save his nerd the heartache and trouble his fight had caused…

But there was no such possibility— no Quirk like that in the world he could rely on… He simply had to live with the actions he made…

And he did his best to make up for them.

♡♡♡

The days since the incident flew by, and Summer fully faded into Autumn. Leaves danced in the crisp air as they floated to the cold ground, vibrant reds and oranges painted the landscape in beautiful colors.

Still, there was no sign of the fanboy.

After dealing with that brat non-stop for a while, it felt so fucking surreal. There were no squinty black eyes glaring at him— no more insults hidden beneath a façade— no need to vie for Deku's undivided attention…

He'd truly expected the twerp to choose to stay close to Izuku— to want to keep his strong bond with the nerd. Especially with the way he'd walked off after their fight in the park— with his cocky attitude and determined aura. Sure, Bakugo assumed he'd need his space for a bit first— to gather himself back up and let this rejection run its course. But when that week became two weeks, then three, then a full fucking month that they'd neither seen nor heard from the little bastard, Bakugo was completely fucking shocked, to say the least!

He figured the teen punk had taken some of his advice, and of the options, apparently fucking chose to remove himself from Deku's life completely. And Bakugo found it fucking insane! Liberating for fucking sure— relaxing even to a degree, like he were in fucking heaven not having to deal with the brat's shitty antics and attitude— yet, so insanely, outrageously un‐fucking-believable!!! While he had more empathy for the teen fucker towards the end, he had no love lost over the idea of never having to deal with him again! 

Izuku, however, was quickly losing hope of ever speaking to the brat again. He had tried calling the shithead— texting him— doing his best to reach out to the shitty bastard to talk to him and try to mend their broken relationship, but the jerk continued to ignore Izuku. Forwarding his fucking calls and not replying to his fucking texts. Sometimes, not even bothering to open said fucking texts!

Katsuki was determined to do what he could to distract Izuku from the absent fanboy. Pretty much any basic ass idea that could be conceived and done in the autumn season, they fucking did it. Partially because he'd seen the melancholic rut Izuku had fallen into— and failed miserably at hiding— and partly because Bakugo felt like he owed it to Deku after ruining one of his lifelong friendships. So Katsuki planned as many outings as he could fit into their busy schedules— sometimes just the two of them, and other times with friends.

Izuku preferred the hustle and bustle of festivals, haunted houses, and the botanical gardens— things that were entertaining, but so definitely not Bakugo’s ideal way to spend the day. There were always so many damn people at those things, and he liked avoiding crowds as much as he could. But if he had to endure a stupidly, crowded festival and play rigged, festival games to win Deku a stuffed All Might plushie— or go through a haunted house that had predictable jump scares and weren’t the least bit frightening as the nerd clung to him because he was scared— or walk through the gardens full of people just to watch the leaves change colors for Deku’s smiles while "oooh-ing" and "aaah-ing"— then he'd fucking do it all in a heartbeat, if only to see Izuku smile and not look so glum.

Besides, he couldn't say everything they did was boring and basic. Bakugo typically preferred more private dates, like going on hikes up into the mountains, enjoying the beauty of nature and having a picnic— or camping and spending the twilight hours of the night stargazing before having sex beneath the constellations. Deku, of course, enjoyed those particular dates immensely, and so they did take quite a few hikes and stargazed. 

He did his best to lighten Izuku's spirits— to help patch the hole that the fanboy’s absence had left. Because even though Deku didn’t talk about it, and even if he still sometimes got fucking jealous thinking about the friendship he shared with the brat, Katsuki could tell it hurt him to be completely cut off from the teenage bastard. Whether he liked it or not, even when he hadn’t been aware of it, the nerd had kept a stable relationship with the brat behind the scenes. After all, he had kept contact with him through the years, and before their hero careers and conjoined adult lives had taken precedent, he’d always made time for the brat before he was ever on Bakugo’s damn radar. He’d even kept tabs on the progress of the brat’s academic career towards becoming a hero— he remembered hearing him fawn over the little jerk before he’d even known who the fuck the kid was…

So Katsuki knew what the loss of that relationship had really meant to Izuku… And he felt guilty for causing it to end the way it did. But rather than wallow in self-pity, he put all that energy into Izuku— into righting his fuck up— into making the nerd as happy as he could as compensation for his shitty actions.

And thankfully, all his hard work seemed to work. The nerd smiled more again, and Bakugo thought perhaps that was the end of that…

♡♡♡

The air turned frigid as Autumn phased into Winter and the ground became blanketed in snow, chilling everything to the core as colorful, bright lights popped up everywhere. A festive, cheery air hung over everything and everyone…

However, Katsuki could see that sadness in Deku hanging just below the surface again— could see the way he did his best to not show it. It had been months now, and there was still no fucking word from the twerp. Deku knew for sure now that the bastard was purposely avoiding him, and it hurt him. And Katsuki couldn't stand that his nerd was so upset… and all over some stupid brat…

But he understood why it meant so much to the nerd. Deku cared for the people he built relationships with like they were his actual family— and to lose one of them was like losing a part of himself.

So to hopefully brighten his nerd's outlook, Katsuki suggested they travel back home. Neither had been home to see their families for a long fucking while. Work had kept them pretty busy most of the year. And since Izuku had always been a certified mama's boy, Bakugo hoped that relationship and being able to actually see his mom would make him beam with energy again— that she could help relieve some of his melancholy that quietly festered beneath his usually cheerful aura. While he’d done his best for Izuku, even asking their friends for their assistance at times, he needed extra fucking help, and he hoped Inko was up to the task.

When they finally arrived home, hugs and kisses were peppered on them by their mothers as the bittersweet pang of being home settled over them. Tears were inevitably shared between Deku and his mom; she was definitely the one whom Deku inherited his crybaby genes. And while normally he’d tease the shit out of the nerd for it, he didn’t comment on it for once. It was nice to see Izuku so fucking happy— to look so vibrant and relaxed. It'd been a while since he'd seen him look like that. The fanboy's absence and obvious avoidance had hit him harder than he'd expected. But with his mom, that pressure and heartache seemed to evaporate as she surged with motherly affection and care for him. 

He knew he’d made the right choice making them visit home.

While he would never admit that he’d also missed the hag and his dad too, it was so comforting to be back home with them— to feel the heaviness of the real world fade into the background of their minds as their parents took them back into their homes for the holidays. Thankfully, they both had plenty of vacation time to use, and could spend the holiday leading up to New Year's with them to catch up and make up for lost time. Deku definitely fucking needed it, and once again as the days wore on, he lost that melancholy over the fanboy and became more like himself again— just from being near his mom.

Inko had come through for both Katsuki and Izuku, and for that, Bakugo would be forever fucking grateful.

♡♡♡

Spring filled the air before long, the earth blooming green around them as Winter lost its hold on the city. Leaves began to sprout from limbs again as flowers bloomed across the revived landscape and animals began their mating rituals. 

Deku had finally dropped all that mopey, fucking energy— shedding and leaving it behind him like his winter coats. He was back to his usual, happy self. The warm, sunny weather amplified Deku's own sunny disposition. And while he still thought of his fanboy now and then, it wasn't with his previously glum demeanor. 

Bakugo figured his stages of grief had run their course. He’d seemingly come to terms with the new permanent absence of the obnoxious teen. While it hadn’t been the ideal situation the nerd had envisioned, it was at least a lot easier for Izuku to deal with— to speak freely about the twerp without having his smiles look so damn dismal. 

For the most part, Izuku had dealt with his feelings over it— had come to terms with his grief over his friendship. But there were still things that hung over him— things he wished he could’ve said— things he wished he could have done. But he’d accepted it wasn't meant to be… 

Until life decided that they had to confront the brat once more. 

That interaction, however, wouldn't quite go the way Bakugo would have imagined…

♡♡♡

The day they finally saw the fanboy again after months of silence happened by a mere fluke. An impromptu decision that put them in the right place at the right time. Very much like how the events of this entire “thing” were propelled into action in the first place.

Bakugo and Izuku had just finished their patrol. It had been a pretty uneventful day— no villain attacks or even minor accidents they could assist with— and they were debating where to go for their late lunch.

“What’s wrong with the usual place, nerd?” Katsuki grumbled as he walked down the street, hand in hand with the dweeb. He wanted to hit up the usual kastudon shop near their apartment. He could always count on their food to hit the spot.

But Deku just gave him a pouty frown, “Don't you want something different tonight, Kacchan? Oh! Like some pot-au-feu?”

Bakugo narrowed his crimson eyes on the nerd as they walked. He knew the real reason he was suggesting a french joint, and it was because the only french restaurant in town was near the fucking comic book store. He wasn’t a fucking idiot. He remembered the damn nerd had been eagerly awaiting some new merch to drop, and today was that day. He knew the damn nerd would’ve been at the store first thing in the fucking morning if they hadn't been scheduled for an early shift. 

“So it has absolutely nothing to do with that new fucking pin that just dropped then?” He asked, giving the nerd his most deadpan look.

Izuku’s cheeks went flush with color as he waved his free hand about in his nervous habit, and he stammered out a lame, “Wh-what?! O-of course not!”

Bakugo just continued to level him with a stare, not buying his bullshit answer and letting him know it. And realizing he'd been made, the nerd's pout intensified as he let go of Katsuki's hand to wrap himself around his arm, tugging at him in hopes of changing his mind. “Fine! Yes! Can we please go! I swear I'll be in and out!”

He put on his best puppy dog eyes as he batted his lashes at him pleadingly. “I already pre-ordered it! I literally just have to go in and pick it up! Please, Kacchan! Can we go?!”

Bakugo could only groan and roll his eyes in response, knowing he was no match against that look. “Whatever, nerd.” He acquiesced, a miniscule smile forming on his lips as Izuku jumped up and down excitedly. Jeez. Deku was such a fucking nerd, and he looked so fucking cute when he got excited over his nerdy crap, it was hard not to smile when he felt his fucking heart flutter in his damn chest. 

“Let’s go, Kacchan!”

Without wasting a second, the nerd diverted their path towards the shop. Both unaware how this small trivial choice to stop by the comic book store would affect them. 

♡♡♡

When the comic book store was in sight, Katsuki could tell it took all of the nerd's willpower not to make a mad dash for the door. Just by holding his hand, he could feel the excitement coursing through Deku's body. He couldn't help but roll his eyes at that. While Bakugo was still as much a massive fan of the older heroes, particularly All Might, being a hero himself now, Katsuki had lost some of that fanaticism that the nerd hadn't. For him, it was just one of his hobbies that he occasionally found himself falling back into like a phase, but for Izuku, it was a huge part of his life. He was more than just a fan, he was basically a fucking stan for anything hero related.

They approached the store front, and he let go of the nerd's hand, watching him practically race to the fucking door and turn to look expectantly at him. But Katsuki had no intention of going in, figuring that if he waited out here, the nerd would have no choice but to fucking hurry and not browse— and then they could go fucking eat. He was starving. “I’ll wait out here.”

“Okay,” the nerd nodded, and then promised, "I'll be right back.” His big, dorky smile was plastered to his freckled face. 

“Don't take too damn long, okay nerd?” He grunted, shoving his hands into his pockets as he moved to the side so as to not block the entrance.  

The nerd nodded enthusiastically, but as he reached for the door, ready to barrel inside, someone else was already pushing it open from within— almost crashing straight into Deku. 

Everything happened pretty fast. The guy tried to sidestepped Deku to keep from accidentally pushing him to the ground, causing the guy to drop something. Embarrassed, the nerd caught himself and started to hurriedly reach down at the same time as the other dude to pick up the hat, mumbling an apology.

“Ohmygod! I'msosorry!”

“Be more fucking careful, Deku!” Katsuki groused, unable to see the face of the person the nerd almost bumped into. But Bakugo saw the dude suddenly tense as the nerd’s name slipped from Katsuki’s mouth. Briefly, he wondered if this was one of Deku’s fans about to go into fanboy mode.

“Izuku…”

It was such a low whisper, Katsuki almost missed it, and he wondered who the fuck this was. A random fan wouldn't call him by his given name— it would be his hero name— and none of their friends even lived around here to warrant visiting this comic book store.

So who the fuck was going around calling the nerd by his fucking name?

“Hm.” The nerd glanced up and made eye contact with the guy, body freezing in place.

Katsuki could only think of one damn person, and crouched down like they were, Bakugo could finally see the dude. Black, messy hair and a pair of beady, black eyes. Bakugo wanted to groan out loud at their luck. How fucking great.

“K-Kouta-kun!” Deku gasped, a hard blush spreading over his face, eyes as wide as saucers as he stared at his former fanboy in the flesh.

The fanboy didn’t say anything though as he looked away. He picked up his hat and dusted it off, placing it on his head, a grimace quickly shadowing his features. He stood up, and so did Izuku, instantly starting to fidget with his scarred fingers, anxiety palpable.

“It's been so long!” He breathed, face bright red.

Katsuki expected the wannabe punk to say something. Some sort of acknowledgement (good or bad) in Izuku’s direction, or even a snide comment Katsuki’s way— honestly, anything. Especially after how fucking long it'd been since he and Izuku had seen face-to-face. Instead, his lips pressed into a grim line and he wouldn't even look the nerd in the eye, face angled downward so that his hat obscured his features. Bakugo understood why he’d act that way, but at the same time, he couldnt help the irritation that ebbed into him at seeing his nerd being snubbed so obviously by some fucking prick half his age. He bit his inner cheek to keep from saying something though. He wanted to give Deku the chance to fix this if he could without Katsuki ruining shit. 

“Uhm. It's good to see you!” Deku tried again, a weak smile stretching across his lips.

The fucker took a step away from Izuku, making it obvious he planned to walk away without a single fucking word. And all Katsuki could think of was how fucking petty the asshat was being to Izuku— all over a fucking rejection!

Noticing the stand-offish attitude the brat was exuding, Deku reached a hand out to stop him, and quickly tried to remedy it the only way he knew how: with a verbal assault of mumbling. “W-what are you doing here, Kouta-kun?” He asked, fidgeting getting worse as he continued to spout off words a million miles a minute, “I guess that's dumb question. You're obviously here to buy some sort of merch. And it's not like you can't shop here or anything, I just hadn't seen you in forever and we'll I just was curious what you were up to. I know spring break just started, and I haven't heard from you so…” His voice finally petered off, anxiety still high, but a quiet resolve settled over him as he realized the brat was set on being quiet.

This situation, though vastly different, brought Katsuki a weird sense of deja vu as he watched. It reminded him of the first encounter he'd had with this punk more than a whole fucking year ago. How fucking weird…

The brat turned his face away, and Katsuki could see his jaw was tense. Probably from gritting his teeth. He had an angry aura about him, and again, Bakugo understood why— anger was a very familiar emotion to him after all. Still, he couldn't believe the little shit would treat someone he'd had a close relationship with like this! And he so fucking badly wanted to say something— to tell the fucker off for being so damn spiteful to someone who thought the fucking world of him!

Deku's mouth pressed into a forlorn line, noticing the same thing about the fanboy before he chewed on his lips. His voice was low and sad as he muttered, “I'm sorry.”

And much like back then, Bakugo remained in the background, observing how they interacted. This time, not because of blind rage or jealousy, but because he knew how important this was for Deku— how much the nerd wanted to patch things up, or get closure. Anything that wasn't how they'd fucking left things.

The asshat didn’t speak up though, he simply reached his hand up to the bill of his hat and pulled it further down, covering his face. Katsuki could see the scowl that marred his lips though, and could practically feel the frustrated animosity that came off him in waves at Izuku's apology. He didn't think the twerp would dare put a hand on Deku, but in case he tried, he started to walk forward to place himself between them— 

But suddenly, the bastard roughly pushed past Izuku, shoulder-checking him hard in the process. That had Bakugo springing into action, surging forward quickly enough to catch the fucker’s wrist and stop him from just rushing off.

Stunned, Deku staggered and barely caught himself from falling as a snarl ripped from Katsuki’s curled lips, “Hey, you fucking prick!” 

Fanboy or fucking not, he didn't just get to fucking do that to Izuku just because he was pissed off at the nerd! Hell fucking no! Not while Katsuki was around! 

“Let go of me!” The bastard sneered, forcibly yanking himself out of Katsuki’s grip as he turned to give him the nastiest glare he could muster. His dark eyes glistened with unshed tears. 

Bakugo returned his ugly fucking scowl with one of his own, and luckily for him, looks couldn't kill.

He snarled out, “What’s your fucking problem, asswipe!” 

It was a rhetorical fucking question. He knew what the fucker’s issue was— knew the bitch was still upset about Deku’s rejection, and truly, he could understand that— could get why he wouldn’t want to speak to Izuku at all! He wouldn't want to either if the roles had been reversed, but that didn’t give him the right to be a fucking uncouth asshole!

“Right now, you guys!” The little shit snapped, black eyes shining furiously as he glared daggers at Bakugo alone, despite claiming it was both of them pissing him off. 

“Hah!?”

He could feel that rage boiling inside him at the twerp’s fucking comment. The teen shithead was obviously fuming, but whether he was angry, heartbroken, or even fucking sad, Bakugo didn't give a flying fuck. He was already pissed off about the way this little fuck mistreated Deku— even if he was entitled to feel whatever fucking way he did about it— and all the prick managed to do was irritate Katsuki even more. The nerd hadn't done shit to warrant this bullshit attitude— and no, he wasn't counting rejecting his advances, cuz that had been fucking months ago, and if the brat had such a fucking problem with Deku, he should just fucking say so instead of acting like a little fucking, petty bitch. Also, he wasn't gonna just let some fuck face say that rude-ass shit to his fucking nerd! 

“You wanna get your ass beat again, bitch?!” He seethed.

Sensing his hostility, Izuku’s hand came to rest against his bicep, trying to calm him down and stop him from doing anything rash— like start another fight with the fucking shithead. 

“Kacchan.”

Even though the nerd’s voice sounded imploring, he could still hear that sadness in his tone, and it caused him to move his gaze from the bastard to the nerd. He could see the hurt and regret that swam behind his green eyes— could see that this encounter with the stupid brat was stirring up more anguish for the nerd. It made Bakugo even angrier. He’d worked hard to make that look fade from Deku’s features, and this fucking fuck face was just resurfacing them!

“Please, Kacchan.” 

That tone surprised him. Not the amount of raw emotion laced into the singular word, but the sheer fucking acceptance! What the fuck? He couldn't fucking believe Deku was just willing to let this go! To let the fucking shit stain treat him like that! To just accept this like it wasn’t a big fucking deal to him! Because he fucking knew! He knew how badly the nerd had wanted to make his peace with him— to say his final goodbyes if the brat was honestly going to sever their life-long relationship over a one-sided attraction! It was fucking bullshit!

From his peripherals, he noticed how the shitty brat’s jaw visibly clenched again as he watched them, an angry gleam in his dark eyes as they narrowed vehemently on Bakugo alone. It almost looked like the fucker would start crying. Without uttering another word, the brat turned on his heels and fucking ran— ran like the fucking coward that he was. All while Deku watched his retreating back, that morose fucking frown that Katsuki fucking hated pulling at the corners of the nerd’s mouth.

“Are you fucking serious, Deku?” He asked incredulously, unable to tear his own crimson gaze away from his boyfriend’s woeful face. There was just no fucking way he was really okay with how this all turned out— that he wasn't racked with regret over not being able to say the things he wanted… it was just not fucking possible!

But Deku just nodded and aimed that fucking wistful look his way, emerald eyes glossy and morose as fucking hell as he tried to hold in tears. Internally, Bakugo wanted to fucking scream. Instead of doing that or chasing the fucking prick down and making him hear the nerd out, he pulled Deku into his arms and held him tight, offering him what little comfort he could.

“It’s really okay, Kacchan,” the nerd mumbled, voice muffled by his shirt. But he could hear the way his voice cracked with grief— sensed it in the way his scarred fingers clutch tighter onto the back of his shirt for support— felt the front of his shirt get damp from Deku’s tears.

Katsuki knew how big a fucking deal this really was for Deku, and he fucking hated that there wasn't more he could do for the love of his life.

♡♡♡

It didn’t surprise Bakugo when Deku’s mopey demeanor resurfaced after that. He would’ve been more fucking surprised if it hadnt… but it didn't make it any easier to accept. He knew how fucking important their friendship was to the nerd— how he’d seen the teen brat as a little brother— how he’d somewhat become a mentor to him. He was his first fucking fan, after all!

Yet somehow, against all odds, the nerd’s woeful attitude didn't last long this time around, and in a matter of days he was “okay”. Katsuki was genuinely fucking astonished by that. The nerd insisted that he was fine though.

“Everything is fine, Kacchan— it’s fine, Kacchan— I’m fine, Kacchan.”

However, Bakugo knew that as much as the dumbass said he was okay with it, and as much as he kept spouting that bullshit, he knew fucking better than that. He felt responsible for the way things ended between them. Both because he’d escalated things last summer when he coaxed the brat into an actual fucking fight, and because he’d aggravated the situation outside the comic book store. He regretted how things went… and the longer he thought about it, the more he couldn't help but wonder if the brat's anger wasn't truly directed at Izuku, but at Bakugo instead…

Though he knew it was probably a long shot, it made him want to help Deku overcome this. So without mentioning it to the nerd, he reached out to the fanboy, asking him to meet him at Hanabi Park over the weekend. He simply wanted the brat to hear him out. He wouldn't even have to fucking talk to him if he didn’t fucking want to, he just wanted a few moments of his stupid time. He knew it was a shot in the dark, and that the bastard would probably just ignore his fucking request. 

Sure enough, a few days passed, and his message remained on fucking read. Bakugo figured that was his fucking answer, and that the fanboy would just never respond back. That pissed him the fuck off. Deku deserved better than that. But there wasn't much more he could fucking do. At least he'd fucking tried, he supposed… though that sentiment didn't settle well with him either.

Until finally, on the night Katsuki initially requested to meet up, the shithead finally answered. Needless to say, when the fucker actually sent him a reply of “Fine”, he was more than fucking surprised.

♡♡♡

Later that evening, Bakugo grabbed his jacket and walked out of their apartment. He'd waited until the nerd fell asleep before he left cuz he didn't want the nerd to know he was doing this— knew he'd get shit for not just letting things be. But Katsuki felt obligated to do whatever he could to find some sort of fucking middle ground. It wasn't Deku's fault his friendship with the brat had gone so fucking wrong; it was Katsuki's! 

He owed it to Izuku to at least fucking try to get through to the fanboy. 

Besides, he couldn't get the thought out of his head that the teen jerk was just projecting his anger onto Izuku. That the person he was actually fucking pissed off at was Bakugo. Whether it was because he beat the shit out of him, or “won” Deku, or because of some other perceived fucking thing, he didn't fucking know. All he could say on the matter was that with how close they'd been, there was no fucking way the brat held that strong of a resentment for Izuku. He could see being pissed at being beaten— sad over not being chosen— even being fucking petty for a few days over the rejection! But come the fuck on! To completely ghost Deku and not even bother to try to work past his stupid feelings, Bakugo just wasn't fucking buying it! Which is why he was pretty fucking sure, he was the real person the brat was angry with, and maybe the fucker just hadn't realized it. Cuz surely, the punk had to be feeling just as shitty about how he left things as Deku! And he hoped hashing those fucking feelings out would help settle things. It's what everyone always told him he should try first before jumping to violence. Which was why he was even fucking out here in the middle of the cold fucking night to begin with— all to meet with a fucking jerk so that he could get some bullshit off his chest.

He reached the bench where it had all started, and took a seat. He tucked his hands into his jacket pockets to keep warm as he waited for the bastard to show his ugly face. A mixture of feelings festering away inside his chest the more time passed. He didn't know how the fuck this meeting would go.

Worst case scenario: the brat would ghost him, Deku wouldn't get his opportunity to say what he needed, and Katsuki continued on trying to atone for his fuck ups for the rest of however fucking long. Best case (for Bakugo): the brat listened to his words, Deku got to have his closure, and Katsuki would spend the next few months comforting the nerd before things inevitably went back to normal. Best case scenario (for Izuku): the brat made up with Deku, Deku was happy again, and Katsuki had to keep dealing with the twerp. He hoped that it wasn't a worst case scenario. Anything but that.

A few minutes passed by before he saw a figure approaching, a horned silhouette letting him know it was the brat. When the kid was close enough that he could see his beady, black eyes and thin lips, Bakugo stood up. 

"About damn time!” He grumbled, breath coming out in a frosty puff. The bastard made him wait almost thirty fucking minutes, and it was fucking cold!

“You're lucky I even came, loser.” The punk groused back, hands stuffed into the pockets of his hoodie. “So hurry the hell up and say what you need to so I can leave.”

Katsuki couldn't keep the annoyed noise that rumbled from his lips. Even if the brat's comment was a fair fucking one, it didn't mean he had to like it. But knowing this was already more than he'd fucking hoped for, he went straight to the point. “The nerd fucking misses your stupid ass.” 

An angry look flashed across the teen’s face before he muttered out a strained, “I'm sure he'll get over it.”

Despite the bravado in his voice, Katsuki could see it belied in the way the punk chewed his lips and the smoldering in the dark eyes. Bakugo's comment wasn't meant to guilt trip the brat or anything like that, it was simply fucking fact— a fact he wanted the bastard to know.

“Eventually, I'm sure he fucking would.” Bakugo stated, thinking about how it was basically what the nerd was trying to do currently. Katsuki was certain with time, it was definitely possible that Izuku would move on. But it would leave him with so many regrets… so many things left unsaid…

His comment made the brat's jaw tense, eyes cast downward. But Bakugo could practically feel the waves of sadness emanating from the brat. As much of a brave front that he put on, clearly, the thought of just being forgotten or pushed aside by Deku affected the brat. It cemented the idea that the punk wasn't happy with how shit had gone down either.

“Even though I'm glad you're not a fucking thorn in my damn side, your stupid absence has made the nerd fucking depressed.” 

The brat's brows furrowed as he warily watched Katsuki, lips pursed. He wasn't sure whether that meant he believed him or not. Even if he couldn't stand the brat, he wanted him to know the truth— to let him know what Deku was going through— to tell him what his dumb decision was doing to the nerd!

“I'm not saying this to guilt trip you into shit, but can you really just let things fucking go like this?” He asked, thinking of how fucking sad Izuku had been since that summer day. How hard the nerd tried to “get over it”… how far he was willing to go to let the shitty teen end things his way— a way that left them both fucking depressed and miserable!

The twerp peered straight into Katsuki's intense stare, giving nothing up about whether or not he was really listening to his words. And when it was obvious he wasn't going to fucking answer him, Bakugo continued on, “Whether you fucking believe me or not, you're friendship means a lot to Deku. He still wants you in his fucking life.”

The brat made a noise of dissent, but his black eyes lost some of their hardness. Katsuki took that as a positive sign. 

“I know friendship isn't what you fucking want from him, but it's what the nerd wants—”

A pained look briefly flashed over the teen dirtbag’s face before he quickly masked it.

“—and your sulking won't fucking change that.”

He sent a glare back Bakugo's way, but said nothing to refute him, ever resolute to stay fucking mute. His very presence annoyed the hell out of Bakugo, but at least him keeping his trap shut let Katsuki go on with saying what he needed to say. 

“It's my fucking fault shit went as fucked as it did. I shouldn't have provoked you. I know that now,” Katsuki acknowledged, shaking his head in anger— at this brat— at himself— at his actions that made this all happen. “But just cuz you're fucking pissed off at me, you shouldn't take it out on the fucking nerd!”

The fanboy balked at Bakugo, apparently visibly appalled at being accused of willfully causing Deku distress. A narrowed glare and a lowly hiss followed, “Who said I'm taking it out on Izuku?”

But it was exactly what the brat had done! What he was currently fucking doing! And Bakugo let it be fucking know. “You haven't so much as fucking texted the nerd in months! Let alone acknowledged him! And what about the day at the comic store, huh? You were a complete fucking asshole to the nerd when all he wanted to fucking do was talk to you!” 

Seemingly caught in his lie, the fanboy's face flushed with color as his fists curled angrily at his side. “That wasn't what happened!” 

He didn't elaborate any more than that though. Didn't take responsibility for his stupid actions or explain why he did what he fucking did. He just stood there, fuming like a petulant child. What a fucking prick!

“So just straight up fucking ghosting Deku isn't you taking your bullshit issues out on him? How fucking rich!” A nasty scowl permeated Bakugo's features as he returned that indignant fucking stare right back at the motherfucking brat. Two could play this fucking game. “Actions speak much fucking louder than words, you asshat!”

“You don't know anything!” The punk yelled, anger rolling off him in waves as he took a step towards Bakugo. He was pissed, body tense like a bowstring ready to snap. “I'm not doing this to Izuku because of you, you asshole, so don't flatter yourself!”

Katsuki thought this would be it. The fanboy would finally air out his true grievances. But he seemed to gather himself back up and he stepped back again, composing himself as he released a derisive snort. His gaze drifted away from Bakugo's, avoiding his eyes like a fucking coward. 

“I've just been busy!” He huffed out, determined to stick to his stupid reasonings as he crossed his arms over his chest. “I go to school— I have a social life— an internship! Other things that don't revolve around Izuku!”

What a bunch of fucking lame excuses! 

“Hah!” Katsuki scoffed loudly, all teeth and gums. Ire ran hot through his veins and all he wanted was to punch the teen dirtbag in the face. It took all his willpower not to succumb to the urge. He didn't come out here to fight with the fanboy, but the fucker somehow managed to get under his skin every damn time he saw his ugly face. 

Maybe it was the blatant way he lied about not knowing he was hurting Deku. Or maybe the way he seemingly brushed the nerd's feelings off like it was nothing, even though very fucking clearly the brat had unresolved feelings over it too! Or even because he'd hoped the brat would take his defeat with a little more fucking class. That his self-proclaimed rival would have enough fucking brains and self-worth to not be a fucking uncouth ass to someone just because they didn't feel the same about him! He couldn't pinpoint exactly the reason though, maybe a combo of it all. 

“Bullshit is all I'm fucking hearing, brat! Cuz that didn't stop your bitch ass from thirsting after Deku before!”

The asshat's head whipped back around so fast, mouth twisting into a snarl as he once more shot daggers at Bakugo. Obviously, the punk didn't like being called out for his thirsty, conniving ways, but Bakugo wasn't gonna mince words.

“Dont give me that fucking look, bitch! You were constantly in his fucking space! I couldn't get a break from your annoying ass!”

The fanboy threw his hands up in exasperation and began to pace. “Why do you even give a shit now then?! I thought that's what you wanted, you psycho— for me to fucking disappear!”

“You have no fucking idea.” Bakugo grumbled under his breath. He fucking wished that could've been the end of it. That he and Deku would just live happily ever-fucking-after. But that wasn't the case, and he had to do what he could for the nerd. Even if it fucking meant trying to get the brat to talk to Izuku again. 

Through gritted teeth he grumbled, “But I know the nerd doesn't. And that's what fucking matters to me— that dumbass’s happiness.”

The teen prick simply scoffed at him, choosing not to reply as he shook his head. He stuffed his hands back into his pockets again as he stopped pacing. He was visibly irritated, jaw locked tight as he glared into the dark.

“And like I fucking said earlier, brat: the nerd fucking misses you! But the idiot is willing to let it go— to let you end it like this! And he won't fucking say it, but he wants to fix shit with your bratty fucking ass.”

The brat stayed silent, still staring into the darkness— once more giving nothing away about what he was thinking. Katsuki wasn't sure whether he was getting through to the dumbass at all. And sure, he'd fucking accepted and even told the fucker that he wouldn't have to talk to him, but damn!

“Look, all I'm fucking saying, is that if you are so fucking set on cutting ties, you could let him say his damn piece, and then move the fuck on.” Bakugo's hands curled into fists at his side, heat emanating in his tight grip. The teen bastard eyed him warily again. He hated that he couldn't just exert his will on the matter— or this punk. He knew that wouldn't work. It would only make things worse, even if it would be so fucking satisfying. “He fucking needs closure if this is really where you're ending it! He deserves it in my fucking opinion.”

Black, beady eyes turned and narrowed on Bakugo as a scowl stretched across the brat's mouth. He saw the underlying threat Katsuki posed, but luckily for him, he wasn't here to fight the fucker. Even if he'd love for nothing more than a second fucking go at the asswipe for hurting his nerd.

“I'm not here to threaten or force you to do shit. Make your own fucking choice. But just fucking remember that he's not the jackass that made your friendship crash and fucking burn. I am.”

Silence met him once again. Angry, dark eyes swirling with thoughts Katsuki would never know.

“So don't take it out in Izuku because I'm the fucking bastard that provoked you. The nerd is innocent in everything that happened, and he deserves to say his goodbyes if this is where you fucking end your friendship.”

Again, nothing but silence and glares, and Bakugo had enough of both. He'd said everything he wanted, and he was ready to head back to his warm bed and his nerd. He'd set out to do what he intended. 

“I just hope you'll think about what I fucking said.”

And with that, he walked away from the asshole, not bothering to spare a single glance back at the fanboy as he added, “The best revenge you could get on me, would be to stay friends with him.”

The brat didn't answer, and Katsuki didn’t expect him to, and now all he could do was wait and fucking see what the bastard would choose.

♡♡♡

More days passed, but the teen brat never reached back out to Deku— didn't try to mend things, or even fucking talk to the nerd. Bakugo hadn't fully anticipated the fanboy would choose to fucking ghost Izuku. Honestly, he should've fucking known better though. The prick had chosen that very option before, so why the hell would he do something different now just because Bakugo gave him a piece of his mind? It didn't stop Katsuki from wanting to hunt the fucker down though…

But well, Bakugo had kinda figured talking wouldn't do shit. At least he'd fucking tried it though instead of resorting to violence, so that was something at least. 

Thankfully, Deku was none the wiser to Katsuki’s actions behind the scenes. However, despite his claims of being okay, Bakugo knew the nerd needed a distraction. And for once, he was actually looking forward to the agency gala, in hopes that it would offer the nerd the diversion he needed...

Little did he know how correct he would be...

♡♡♡

Their agency's Hero Gala was an exclusive event held at the end of spring. It was a grandiose party the agency threw to show off the rookies they'd signed on, as well as congratulate their heroes with blasé, bullshit awards like: Most Completed Missions, Most Popular, Most Inspirational, Highest Mission Count— insignificant bullshit like that. This was the moment they could show off not only their heroes, but the wealth of the agency. A bait of its own to lure more upcoming heroes to join them, and also raise their reputations as a major Hero agency.

It was why Bakugo fucking hated this thing… 

He was content kicking villains' asses and going home, but he could do without all this stupid peacocking they had their heroes do— the politics and social status climbing they expected— squeezing into a stupid suits and rubbing elbows with people of high society and other famous heroes— posing for dumb pics for some lame ass article feature in magazines— speaking to a select few journalists allowed in to document this damn event. Fucking stupid. All of it. And a waste of fucking time and money.

The only good thing that came out of this annoying event was the food. The agency spared no expense, and that included the grub. It was high class and Michelin star worthy. It was the only thing in this stupid venue that fucking mattered— to him, anyways. All he had to do was make it through the boring ass speeches the agency higher ups did at the start, then he could make a beeline for the fucking food.

So, upon their arrival, Izuku, Round Cheeks, Bakugo, and his guest— the hero from last summer that had kept his ass out of court— made their way to their assigned table. Eijirou and Mina were the other pair seated with them; a table over sat Denki and Kyouka, Todoroki and Momo, and Hanta and his date.

Every hero in the agency was allowed a plus one. Eijirou obviously brought Mina; Kaminari finally had the long whined about opportunity to invite Jirou— which he still wouldn't shut the fuck up about; Sero invited whatever girl he was seeing at the time— currently a big tits, no brain bitch; and Deku used his plus one to invite Ochako, because she'd get mad if he came to "this big, fun party" without her. And since Izuku was already required to be there, Bakugo never utilized his extra invitation. Which is why his boss considered it his damn punishment to keep the park hero company throughout the fucking night. But just because she was here as a “punishment” of sorts, it didn't mean he was obligated to do shit with her. 

Thankfully, when everyone took their seats at the table, the chatter instantly began between the two tables of friends. The park hero was friendly enough, and she seemed to fit right in with their group. He was glad for that. It meant he didn't have to fucking talk or socialize with her. 

Before long, Boss was getting everyone's attention and gave the introductory speech. She thanked everyone for attending and all the organizers. Then went into another speech about the agency, and other random shit Bakugo didn't care to pay any attention to— and before long she was done, and the party-goers were allowed to mingle and eat before the second round of speeches and the awards began. He was so fucking glad those were towards the end of this stupid thing.

Unfortunately, though, that meant Deku wanted to socialize during the free time before the awards ceremony; Katsuki wanted to avoid people. And while normally, Izuku would hound Katsuki to mingle with him, with how mopey he'd been, they both knew he needed it more than ever. So they compromised.

Izuku went around and spoke to friends and other heroes he'd worked with in the past. As the more approachable half of the Wonder Duo, it was kinda expected of Deku anyway, and he did extra rounds so that Katsuki wouldn't have to interact with anyone. Bakugo appreciated that more than he could say. Deku was in his fucking element here— so many fucking people to talk to— so many new people to meet— so many heroes to fucking gush over. But Bakugo was glad the nerd seemed to be in a lighter mood. He'd definitely needed this. 

With Deku doing his thing, that meant Bakugo found himself meandering around the buffet tables, doing his best to ignore and avoid people. But that was difficult to do when Katsuki had a shadow in the form of the hero from the park incident. Up until now, she'd made herself scarce, probably fawning over the ritzy venue and everything else that came with this vanity show. That must've lost its allure though if she was hanging around him now.

While Bakugo was piling the spiciest hor'dourves he could find onto his small plate, she made small talk that he didn't really listen to, grunting in annoyance to whatever she said. He hated small talk— hated wasting energy on bullshit he didn't find worth his time. Like having to play babysitter to a grown ass woman just because of a job requirement.

But he couldn't exactly say that shit to her. Boss had specified before the event that he had to be on his best behavior. He had to be “nice” to his guest and mind his manners. If he didn't, he'd have to face the consequences later, because Bakugo owed her big time for the park incident not being as much of a disaster as it could have been. However, just because she was here as his "VIP" guest, it didn't mean he had to actually fucking talk to her. 

Instead, he ignored her. He couldn't say something that would offend her or get him reprimanded if he didn't engage with her. So it was a win-win for him. 

Katsuki made his way back to their table, his shadow still trailing behind him. Ugh. He wished she'd leave him alone, but of course she fucking didn’t. She sat beside him, nibbling on her own appetizers as she went on talking again. He started eating his food, ignoring his fellow VIP, hoping she'd get the fucking hint as his eyes wandered around the room instead of towards his guest.

At the other table, Uraraka, Mina, and Jirou chattered amongst themselves, giggles erupting from them every few seconds. He would guess they were probably yakking about Ochako's newest boytoy— some model bastard he'd heard about in passing from Deku. Or maybe they were even talking about Kaminari, if the way Ears furiously blushed meant anything. He prayed for Denki's sake that he wasn't terrible in the sack because the gossip Queen had that look in her eyes and she was prowling for juicy info. 

Hm. Where were the guys anyways? His gaze roved across the room, landing on the bar.

Kaminari and Eijirou were there, more than likely getting drinks for themselves and the girls. This being a formal work event, and knowing Shitty Hair was a lightweight, Bakugo knew the redhead would probably forgo having more than three alcoholic beverages. Denki had no such restraints, downing two shots while they waited for their collection of cocktails, visibly trying to pump himself up. For what though, Katsuki could only guess it had something to do with Jirou— probably to get into her pants. Either way, he would bet money that out of all their friends, Pikachu got shitfaced first.

His eyes kept wandering, subconsciously looking for Deku amidst the people. Instead, his sights landed on the ballroom floor.

Todoroki—who was annoyingly always invited— and Momo (obviously his plus one since she was his wife) danced along the room, elegant and at home in this extravagant setting. They were every bit the prim and proper couple if not for the wandering hand Icy Hot trailed down Ponytail's backside. Katsuki couldn't help but roll his eyes. Jeez. They should get a fucking room. Though he knew he had no real room to judge, as he always groped Deku in an effort to seduce him every chance he got. 

He continued to scan the room.

Hanta was the furthest away, sitting at the other bar with his current girlfriend. He probably wanted to avoid getting heckled by the alien queen or Sparky, and Bakugo could respect that. Their friend group tended to be over the top sometimes, and if he was trying to make a good impression on her, he had the best luck being as far away from them as possible. And clearly, Sero made the right call too, if the way he was smiling like an idiot at whatever the fuck she whispered in his ear as she stroked the tops of his thighs meant anything. 

Jeez. Everyone was seemingly trying to get laid tonight.

Though given the fancy, massive venue, perhaps it was a great opportunity for it… if a couple wandered out of view, it would be a while before someone found them…

Hm. 

That train of thoughts had him wondering where the hell the nerd went? Maybe Bakugo could ditch his shadow and convince Izuku to find a secluded spot in the gardens... 

Deku was nowhere in sight though. Last he'd seen him, he was fanboying away with their old mentors, All Might and Aizawa, hands flailing animatedly while they were deep in conversation. Famous and retired pros usually made the list to this shitshow, and the nerd always spent the longest time amongst his childhood heroes. 

Where was Deku then?

"He stepped out into the gardens," his shadow spoke out. Puzzlement etched itself onto his face as he turned to look at her. How the hell would she even fucking know that? She'd been seated next to him this whole damn time. A small, fanged smile curved her lips as she answered his unspoken question. "He got a phone call." 

Katsuki's brows furrowed even further. Fully fucking confused now, cuz that just raised more questions. "How the fuck would you know that?"

She pushed her long, wavy hair away from her face, showing him pointy bat-like ears. As though that gesture alone could answer his fucking question. He would guess that they were related to her Quirk…. So probably excellent hearing or some shit. He couldn't be sure though. 

Another fangy smile stretched across her lips as she let her hair fall back down across her exposed shoulder. In a playful tone, she said, "I knew you weren't actually listening."

Shit. The small talk must've been about her Quirk’s abilities. Rather than admit anything though, or comment on how he didn't give enough of a shit to pay her any mind, Katsuki leveled her with a quick glare before turning away. He had to remember not to be “rude” to her. The last thing he wanted was to get more punishments from Boss.

Her smirk stayed plastered to her lips as her violet eyes looked away. They settled into silence. He kinda wished she'd just fucking leave. Though he could also just fuck off and find Deku too… That thought sounded pretty good right about now. 

And as he pushed his seat back to get up, his guest turned to look at him and said, "Komori,"

Katsuki turned to look at her with furrowed brows. "Hah?"

"My name is Komori Kuroshi." She smiled again, fangs poking past her lips.

He grunted in acknowledgement, but he already mentally cataloged her as Park Bitch. He wasn't fucking seeing her again after tonight anyways, so what was the point in getting to know her? Much less remembering her name. "Katsuki Bakugo."

Her smile grew, violet eyes flashing with mirth as she leaned into his space. He noticed the way they swirled strangely when she spoke, "I know."

Another grunt in response. Right. She'd asked for his autograph; she was a fucking fan. 

With that, he tried to stand, but as much as he wanted to, he just couldn't look the fuck away or will his body to move. He found himself stuck. Sort of like his eyes were glued to her, like a soft voice beckoned him to stay— to get closer.

What the hell? 

With some effort, he managed to break eye contact. However, he couldn't shake off the weird feeling she gave him. It was unnerving, like there was a compulsion in him to keep staring at her. Something kept his focus trained on her even though he wanted nothing more than to look away and leave.

It must be a part of her Quirk, he guessed.

It was then that he saw Izuku coming in from the gardens, eyes glued to his phone as that infectious smile he was known for spread across his lips. He must've gotten some good news, and he couldn't help but be glad one of them was having a decent fucking time here. Maybe now the nerd wouldn't be so hung up on the stupid fanboy's absence.

"Must've been some good news, huh?" Park Bitch asked, plucking the words straight from his thoughts, drawing his attention back to her. And once more, when his vermilion gaze settled on her violet eyes, he felt transfixed. Like his mind was slowly hazing.

Was she using her fucking Quirk on him or something?? 

But as soon as he thought about it, he shook the thought off. Surely she wouldn't be stupid enough to try that when she was surrounded by so many pro heroes. 

What the fuck were the effects of her Quirk anyways? He made a mental note to ask Deku later, cuz the nerd would probably know.

She smiled at him once more, accepting his silence before she broke their gaze, making the fog lift, and leaving Katsuki feeling a bit normal again. But he continued to stare at her, observing her, wondering if maybe part of her Quirk activated automatically when she made eye contact. Maybe he should've listened when she told him...

She smiled and waved at someone, and Bakugo looked away from her to peer into emerald gems. 

"Hey, Kacchan." Izuku spoke, his smile faltering as he snuck a peek between Katsuki and his guest. "Uhm, am I interrupting?"

Katsuki shook his head, an adamant "Fuck no,” rolling off his tongue at the same time that Park Bitch gave Deku that fangy smile, purple eyes no longer swirling mysteriously as she shook her head no.  

“I'll talk to you later,” she said, giving Bakugo a friendly wave before she got up and walked away.

Why the fuck was she gonna talk to him later? Clearly, he didn't want her fucking company. Nonetheless, she made her way through the throngs of people towards the buffet tables. Though, apparently with her super hearing, it was fucking pointless. The bitch could hear shit from across the fucking room, afterall. But he didn't comment on it.

He turned his face to the nerd, noticing the way Deku watched her. What was that about? He reached out and grabbed his scarred hand, refocusing the nerd's attention. "You had something to tell me?"

Izuku perked up a little as he nodded enthusiastically, taking the now empty seat beside him. But his jade eyes kept shifting to the lesser ranked hero meandering the buffet area. He seemed uncomfortable, and Katsuki wondered if he also knew about her superior hearing.

"So what the fuck happened, nerd?” He asked again, once more diverting Izuku's focus. The bitch was gonna hear shit from all over the damn venue anyways, and unless she singled them out, their conversation would stay fucking private. So Bakugo wasn't worried about it. “You seem to be in a better mood."

That stupid smile of his brightened up his face, attention completely focused back on Bakugo this time. He looked excited, like he had some amazing news to share.

"Kouta-kun called me!" He exclaimed excitedly, his body basically vibrating with positive energy.

Ugh. Not the fucking fanboy.

Against his will, Bakugo's lips formed a slight scowl, but he quickly morphed it into a strained smile instead. He tried to keep the sarcasm and bitterness out of his voice as he replied with a lackluster, "Yeah? That's— that's fucking great, Deku.”

Minimum, he really fucking hoped Izuku got the closure he needed so they could both move on. 

"I know! We talked about what happened," Izuku's smile slipped into a sad frown, that melancholy surrounding him once more. For a moment, Katsuki feared that the actual conversation they'd had wasn't a positive one. "He said he wanted to cut ties with me after that. That he didn't think he could hang around me knowing I wouldn't return his feelings, and seeing me be with someone else hurt him..."

While a part of Katsuki was overjoyed the fuckboy took his advice and was finally letting Izuku have a moment of catharsis, he couldn't help but feel bad for Deku. Bakugo hated the fucking teen bastard, though obviously the nerd thought the fucking world of him.

But then that jovial glow slowly swept back into him, his smile brightening as his jade orbs glowed with happiness the longer he rambled on. It was then Bakugo realized that he was wrong. The conversation hadn't been a negative one. 

"But he said that after being away for so long, he realized he didn't want that. He apologized for how he acted, too.” A pensive look crossed his features as he spoke, hand curling against his chin in his signature fashion, “He said that a friend of his helped him work through his feelings over everything, and made him realize that he was hurting me. That he was angry, and had not realized he was taking it out on me. Though I never held that against him, or felt it was his fault.” 

A friend, huh? Bakugo never thought he'd ever hear that word leaving the brat's mouth, especially not pertaining to Katsuki. How fucking weird. He was also surprised to hear that his words had actually made a fucking difference. The way that punk had acted, he honestly thought the little jerk would continue to project his anger towards the nerd.

Izuku continued to gush, smiling wide to the point Bakugo wondered how his face didn't hurt. “But he said that it made him also realize he missed me! And even though he knows nothing will ever happen between us, he still wants to be friends!”

Wow. He was honestly fucking surprised the brat had decided on that. Though he supposed the way he'd left things— the not-so-subtle way he'd suggested re-friending Deku would be a good way to get back at him— had maybe helped. Even if just a miniscule amount. But he didn't regret that act of duplicity. Not if it meant Deku's happiness and the rekindling of his friendship with someone important to him.

“I invited him to meet us afterwards—"

Bakugo felt his lips twitch, a scowl trying to overtake his forced grin. Of fucking course. It was just his luck that at soon as they made up, the fucking twerp would try and rub his face in their newly made-up relationship. Ugh. 

"—but he said he still needed some time before he was ready to see me. Which I completely understand, and told him to take as much time as he needed. I'm just glad he's at least talking to me again.”

Holy fucking shit. Katsuki thanked the fucking universe for the small favor. He didn't think he'd deal well with having to "socialize" here, and then having that shithead around right after.

“I'm so happy, Kacchan!” Deku beamed, that megawatt power move he called a smile burning Bakugo's retinas before he pressed into Katsuki's chest for a hug. "It's a while away still, but I told him that he was welcome to come over for that big bonfire Momo and Shoto have planned next month!"

“That's cool, nerd.” Bakugo wrapped his arms around him, keeping the sigh he wanted to release suppressed. Great. After their last encounter, he'd accepted that the fanboy would fuck off— that he wouldn’t have to deal with him. But it seemed he was gonna be stuck with him longer. Though as annoying as that was for him, he supposed it was a small price to pay in the end.

The nerd rested his chin against his torso and glanced up at him, "Of course, I wanted to talk to everyone first, but I'm sure they'll be okay with it…"

“Awesome, Deku.” That unnatural smile tugged at Bakugo's lips again. He was happy for the nerd, truly, he fucking was— just… ugh. The fanboy. 

Apparently, this time, Izuku wasn't buying his fake tone or smile though. A frown touched his lips as he gazed up at Katsuki, a hint of concern coloring his eyes.

“If you're not okay with that though, I won't bother asking the others." He said, blinking up at him with care as a small, sincere smile lifted the corners of his soft mouth, "Because I want you to be comfortable with this too. I know what happened before upset you, and I want to put your feelings first, Kacchan."

Katsuki felt his heart throb with adoration as he peered down at his nerd. He very obviously wanted the twerp there, but he was letting Bakugo have the final say, and he greatly appreciated that. And it would be super fucking petty of him to still hold a grudge against the fanboy. Especially after he literally beat the hell out of him, and Izuku was transparent with the brat about his feelings. So sure, he fucking disliked that the brat was a smug, know-it-all, pretentious bitch… but he had no real excuse anymore to be so biased towards the dickface. Not anymore.

"It's cool, nerd. Invite the fanboy." He consented, a twinge of amusement in his voice.

If Katsuki thought Izuku's smile before was blinding, it was nothing compared to the intense sunshine that radiated off him now as he squished himself into Bakugo's chest, squealing with joy. "Thank you, Kacchan! I'm gonna go talk to the rest of the group!"

"Whatever, nerd." Bakugo smirked, liking the happiness his response brought his partner—his nerd— his soulmate.

With that, the nerd bounced away towards their friends, excited to share the news of the fanboy's resurgence, and to ask whether they were okay with him inviting the brat. Katsuki followed him a few moments later, leaving the safety of their table and trudging through the crowd of people, but he was suddenly ambushed by Boss and his PR team, and with them, a small army of journalists.

Shit! Not them!

Before he could make a run for it, he was forced to do an interview. His PR team insisted it would be good for the upcoming ranking polls, and unfortunately, the decision was backed by Boss. He had no choice but to do it, and so was blissfully unaware of Park Bitch meandering her way towards him, waiting for the interviewers to leave so she could strike up another conversation. He also missed Izuku's roving jade eyes, and the different shade of green that resided within those brilliant orbs when she did swoop in to talk to Bakugo after the journalists had gotten what they needed from him. He didn’t get to see the determination that burned bright in his emerald eyes as his lips tugged into a slight frown when she touched his arm.

This gala definitely provided Izuku with something to think about other than the fanboy, for sure. But to what extent, Bakugo would be none the wiser until much later.

♡♡♡

A few weeks went by after the gala. Deku was on better terms with the fanboy, though the kid still wasn't ready to see face to face; but that was okay with Izuku. He was content with the occasional text here and there. Anything was better than nothing, so the nerd didn't push it. And Katsuki was okay with that too. Even if he had no real disdain for the teen punk, he was still all too happy for the space.

All in all, Bakugo was pretty fucking content with how everything had played out, and when he thought back on it, he knew he'd been fortunate. His jealousy had caused him and Deku quite a damn mess, and he knew he had to try harder at not letting his emotions get the best of him in the future.

It made him wonder how the hell Deku kept himself so restrained with things like that. In fact, the more he thought about it, he didn't think he'd ever seen the nerd get jealous in all the years they'd been in a relationship…

Hm. How fucking weird. Surely the nerd had some sort of instance when he'd been jealous. Afterall, Bakugo was very aware of how fucking handsome Deku was, and that there were definitely others who wanted to fuck Deku— the fucking car wash was proof of that! While he never fucking liked it when he saw people drool over his nerd, until the fanboy, he'd managed to keep those emotions from rampaging out of control. He would typically just assert himself in front of whatever fucking bitch was thirsting after his man— be it by placing a possessive kiss on the nerd, or manhandling him directly in front of them— and they'd back the fuck off usually.

So surely, Izuku was equally fucking aware of how damn hot Katsuki was— he knew he was a fucking catch. Plus, he wasn't stupid, he knew people wanted to fuck him too! How could they not! So, therefore, Izuku must also know Katsuki had fans thirsting after him too, right!? There's no fucking way he didn't, right? Deku was smart enough to realize that shit… So why the hell couldn't he pinpoint even one time the nerd had flashed a little jealousy over Bakugo getting someone else's attention— whether it was from a fan or fellow hero??

There had to be at least one fucking instance!

And so it was one evening when they were sprawled out on the couch watching a movie that Bakugo brought the subject up. Cuz he was genuinely fucking curious.

“Have you ever gotten jealous, Deku?” He asked, turning his attention to look at the nerd. He hadn't been able to pay attention to the film, his mind so caught up in these thoughts.

The nerd's mouth formed a small frown as he met his gaze, still partially involved with their movie. “What do you mean, Kacchan? Like over someone's belongings?” 

“Like, have you ever gotten really fucking jealous when some random extra made the fucking moves on me or some shit.” He elaborated, watching Deku closely. 

The nerd pondered it for a moment, brows scrunching together as he sat up. He shook his head, and said, “I don't think so…”

There was no fucking way! Katsuki knew there must've been at least one fucking occurrence, surely! For fuck's sake, over the years he'd lost track of how many thirsty bastards he'd had to intimidate over Japan's fucking sweetheart and pro hero, Deku! And being that he himself was pro fucking hero, Ground Zero, Deku must've dealt with his own share of obsessed fans lusting over Bakugo! 

“So you never did some stupid shit over some extra trying to flirt with me?” He reiterated again, crimson gaze narrowed curiously on the nerd. “Or saying some inappropriate shit to me?”

“Hm.” Izuku curled his hand against his chin in thought, racking his brain for a second. “I know I've gotten upset when I heard someone talking a certain way about Kacchan…” A small blush dusted his freckled cheeks as he coughed into his hand, “I mean, it's not very nice to talk about anyone that way in public, so that could be a bad example.”

“So you've never gotten jealous?” He asked, astounded, “To the point you did something fucking stupid?”

One of Bakugo's thirsty ass fans must have gotten a rise out of Deku!

“Well, I suppose I have gotten jealous before. But nothing in particular stands out cuz I don't think I've ever gotten jealous enough to do anything to someone.”

“No one's ever, I dont know—stood too close to me— touched me far too fucking casually— fucking something?!”

He pondered it another moment before answering with, “No. Not that I can think of—” And then suddenly, Deku stopped talking and a nervous energy emanated off of him. “Uh, no… not at all.”

And then he offered Bakugo an unconvincing smile. Interest piqued, Katsuki sat up, propping himself up on his elbows, an amused smile barely hidden. Apparently, the nerd had thought of a time when he had a jealous streak himself! But despite the obvious tell-tale signs that something came to mind, he quickly rebuked it with, “—uh, I mean, no. Nope.”

Bakugo couldn't help the loud laugh that rumbled out of him as he sat up. “You're a terrible fucking liar, nerd!”

Izuku’s face turned a deeper crimson. He continued to deny the claims with a fervent shake of his head, and mumbled, “I don't have anything to share.” 

“Bullshit,” Katsuki grinned smugly, “Fucking spill, Deku!”

Izuku gave him a slightly annoyed pout. But against Bakugo's charm and tenacity, he knew it would be a matter of time before he would tell him everything. With a defeated sigh, he defended himself with, “Alright! Maybe I've gotten a little aggressive recently with a fangirl for touching Kacchan—”

A huge, smug smirk started to form against Katsuki's mouth upon hearing that, and he couldn't keep himself from interrupting with a haughty, “Recently, huh?”

Deku’s face was engulfed in a blush at his accidental confession. But he shot Bakugo a petulant look and added, “—okay, yes! Recently! But I definitely didn't try to beat her up just for touching you, Kacchan!”

Despite the dig at him, that wolfish smirk continued to spread farther across Katsuki's lips as he leaned into Deku's space. “But you have been jealous over some extra trying to pick me up!”

Izuku gave him another flustered look that was way fucking cuter than he'd probably meant it to be, and sputtered out a heated, “Of course I have! Much like you, Kacchan, I don't like people being so forward with my boyfriend! I just don't try to beat them all up.”

Katsuki was fucking relieved. He knew he couldn't be the only one! Even if Deku would never escalate anything the way Bakugo would, knowing the nerd got jealous too made him feel less shitty about everything with the fanboy. Sure, he still shouldn't have let it go like it did, but it was good to know he wasn't the only one. Plus, it was a little bit of an ego boost too.

“When was the last? Who fucking was it? Would I even have fucking noticed?” He asked in rapid-fire succession. These were genuine fucking questions! He wanted to know— to see if he'd be able to pin point the clues in the future— to actually see the green-eyed monster inside Izuku— to find out if a jealous Izuku would act and look as hot as he imagined!

“Ugh!” Another pout pursed Izuku's lips, cheeks burning as he gazed frustratedly away from him. “Why does it even matter?”

“C’mon, Deku,” Katsuki pleaded, drawing the nerd's gaze back to him. He wanted to know so fucking badly. Who had gotten under the nerd's skin enough that he actually fucking did something about it!? And he said recently too, so how long ago? It couldn't have been that far back, considering his thoughts had been so preoccupied with the bratty fanboy! And most importantly, how did Bakugo not fucking notice?! Deku was the oblivious one about that shit, not Katsuki!

Instead of answering though, Izuku stared into his crimson eyes. He was searching for something, though Bakugo didn't know what.

“I just wanna know that I'm not the only one who gets irrational when someone tries to seduce my partner right in front of me.” Katsuki responded, hoping that was what he needed to hear to tell him. Plus, he really fucking meant it. 

A deep sigh escaped Deku as he shook his head, “No. You're not the only one, Kacchan.”

Bakugo didn't think Izuku was gonna tell him, especially when he leaned forward and gently pushed against Katsuki’s chest. Bakugo didn't fight it, allowing Deku to push him back against the couch.

“Besides,” the nerd whispered as he hovered over him, a possessiveness gleaming in his veridian orbs. That look sent shivers through Bakugo, making heat and desire flood throughout his body. He knew that look— knew when Izuku flashed it, he was set on making Katsuki think of nothing else but Izuku while lost in pleasure. Izuku trailed his fingers up Bakugo's chest as he murmured, “No one could seduce me away from you, Kacchan.”

Hearing that made Bakugo's skin tingle like a live wire. His heart raced hard and fast beneath his ribcage.

“You're mine, and I'm yours.”

Those words were like a silent command triggering his hands to reach up and pull Izuku down for a searing kiss; Deku eagerly reciprocated, scarred fingers fisting into his shirt. 

In that moment, Bakugo knew— oh yeah, a jealous Izuku would be fucking hot! And that was the last coherent thought Bakugo would have before Deku quickly escalated their kiss. 

Lips and teeth nipping and biting as hands roved greedily over Katsuki's toned body, pulling his clothes off and throwing them across the floor. The couch creaked beneath their weight as they shifted into more comfortable positions, Izuku's own clothing joining Bakugo's on the floor. Their heavy breaths mingling as they kissed, scarred hands finding purchase against Katsuki's chest as their bodies collided; sweat beading down their bodies as Deku's downward thrusts became fast and erratic; Katsuki's fingers leaving bruises along Izuku's hips as he kept up with his pace. 

It was almost as though Izuku was determined to remind Katsuki who was allowed to touch him so intimately— whom Bakugo belonged to— and he willingly gave all of himself up to Izuku.

♡♡♡

It would be later that evening, once they were both sated and tangled in each other's arms that Izuku would finally tell Katsuki when that recent event had been: the gala— and the offender: the park hero. 

Deku shamefully confessed that after Katsuki had ended his interviews and managed to ditch her, he went straight up to her, and in as polite a way as he could muster, told her to not to touch his man. Clearly, she got the hint.

"Why the fuck would you be jealous of that bitch?" Bakugo asked, incredulous and still baffled. It blew his mind that his oblivious, sunshine-incarnate Deku would be so fucking envious of some stranger hogging Bakugo's attention. Much less notice said person attempting— and fucking failing— to seduce him. “I basically just fucking met her. “

And yeah, he knew how fucking hypocritical that was to think, but in Katsuki's defense, when it came to Deku… Well, Izuku was far too fucking nice, and everyone misconstrued his kind, polite charm as an invitation to flirt. And Izuku was always too oblivious to realize that's what was happening. While on Katsuki's end, anyone who came at Bakugo with those intentions were told plainly— and often very fucking aggressively— to fuck off and leave him the fuck alone. Sometimes, even if that's not why they approached him.

Izuku bit his lip as he fiddled with his fingers in that nervous manner that he couldn't hide from Bakugo.

“She looked like she could be your type."

Katsuki found that laughable— and laugh he fucking did, much to Deku's immense embarrassment. "I've only got one type, and it's your nerdy ass, Izuku."

"Well, she looked very pretty," Deku mumbled, gazing away as red tinged his cheeks. "And she had a cool quirk. Plus, her record shows she's actually very strong, too. Top of her agency."

Bakugo raised a brow. "Your fucking point?"

It was funny to think about how they each approached the matter of jealousy. Bakugo simply tried denying his feelings about it, pushing the emotion down and forcing a lid on it, whereas Izuku took a far different approach. With a forcefulness that belied his normally go-lucky attitude, he'd tell the potential usurper to back the fuck off. Obviously, not in those exact words though, he definitely put his own Deku-esque spin on his wording. But nonetheless, they took his fucking hint.

No one wanted to mess with Izuku. Behind his bubbly personality hid a stubborn powerhouse, and being as he was the stronger half of the Wonder Duo— though Katsuki would forever fucking deny he ever said that aloud— he could definitely see why they'd be intimated into leaving Bakugo alone. Even if he knew Izuku would never actually try to hurt someone to get his way, it fucking worked didn't it? They always got his point and left Katsuki alone! Fuck, it worked so well he'd never even noticed!

"I just- I don't know." Izuku murmured, face flushing darker, “I was just jealous."

Somehow, the thought of Izuku actually thinking Katsuki would ever consider looking for someone else made his heart pound faster, and warmth filled his chest. He reached out for Izuku, gently cradling his face in his hands as he made Deku gaze at him. He had the one he'd always wanted.

"I fucking love you, Deku.” 

A sheepish smile curved the nerd's lips, green eyes shining with adoration. He responded back with, “I love you too, Kacchan.”

They were soulmates, drawn together forever, and no punk ass teen or unknown hero would ever change that. 

And then Katsuki leaned down to capture Izuku's lips in a kiss. Ready to remind the nerd whom he'd always had eyes for— whose attention he really cared about— whose eyes he wanted trained on him as they lived out their lives together. Katsuki had always thrived under attention, but there had only been one person whose attention he really cared about, whose eyes he wanted trained on him as he took his place amongst the best!

And it would always be Izuku.

♡♡♡