Archive of Our Own ^beta

The evening was cold, a bitter wind whipping and winding down the streets.  It wasn't snowing, not yet, but the clouded, dark sky held the promise of rough weather to come.  It wasn't a night most people would want to be out.

But Enji Todoroki wasn't most people.

As one of, if not the best attorney in the city, he went where he wanted, when he wanted.  He wasn't above backroom deals, but he got results and his Agency was known by name and had the best conviction rates in the city.  He was recognized on sight.  And people knew when to not see him as well.

Like when he visited his favorite club.

It looked like a gentleman's bar from the outside.  And on the inside as well, when one stepped in.  All dark wood, red and gold accents.  The foyer led into a bar, tables and chairs scattered around, a small stage for dancers.  Given the size of the building, it was much smaller than one might expect.

And that was because the real club was through a cleverly concealed side hallway.  It was labeled 'Employees Only' and the bouncer at the door waved very few people in that direction.  Only those that flashed black cards.

People like Enji.

The bouncer probably knew him by sight, but he gave no indication, simply looking at Enji placidly until the card made an appearance, the gold lettering on the front flashing in the low light.  The man nodded to the curtained alcove; Enji was well familiar with it.

He turned easily and slipped behind the heavy velvet, making his way down the dim hall to the heavy door at the end.  Opening it led to a very small room, more of a sound buffer than a usable space.  Closing the door behind him, he reached for the second, opening the way to the club proper.

The music wasn't as loud as some other clubs might be, but coming from the quiet of the hall, it was a momentary shock.  What was a larger shock was the multitude of naked young men wandering around.

The club catered to the financially fortunate . Working professionals, criminals, law enforcement politicians.  It didn't matter.  As long as the men had enough money and realized that breathing a word about the club or who they saw there would result in their ruin, they were welcome.

Enji glanced around, recognizing a few faces, but giving no hint.  A pretty young man stepped forward, dressed in a vest, nearly sheer pants and very little else, to take Enji's jacket, smiling flirtatiously up at him.

With the security of the place, and the subtle threat hanging over everyone's head, no one would stoop low enough to steal from the coat room.  He handed it over, nodding his thanks, then made his way to an empty booth, settling down on the comfortable sofa, a low table in front of him. 

It was a fairly busy night, given the weather outside.  But all the more reason to look for a little extra warmth.

There were booths scattered around, places just far enough apart to offer the illusion of privacy, for those that wanted it.  Boys, some that looked barely legal, walked the floor, sat beside Patrons, or in their laps.  Or in other, more compromising positions.

Many were naked, save for a collar around their necks, but a few were dressed in scanty clothing; skirts, gausey pants, teasing loin cloths.  On paper, they were employed, earning a wage for their time.  Enji didn't want to know the details.

The club, known to Patrons as LoV, was run by The League.  An underground organization that had fingers in half the crime and underhanded dealings in the city.  Their influence was mostly what kept the club safe for those that frequented it.  The League could and would release enough dirt on any given 'upstanding' Patron to bring them down, or enough evidence on a criminal to have them locked away.

The club's offerings were marked to keep interactions simple, though a burly man could be seen, stationed here and there against a wall, just in case someone got out of line.  The boy's collars denoted their status.

Blue were servers.  There were only a handful, there to look pretty and bring the patrons drinks.  Black collars settled around the necks of escorts.  Boy's who's time could be bought.  They snuggled up to Patron's sides, sat in their laps, knelt between their legs.  They could say no, but very few did.  They were there to serve.

Red collars graced the necks of the prettiest boys, and thus, the most expensive.  They could also be choosy about which Patrons bought their time, to an extent.  They could decline, but powerful men made terrible enemies.  They were more closely watched by the bouncers, just in case.

And finally, there were a few boys with yellow collars.  Their time could be bought, but no one bothered.  They were there to be used, the cumdumps of the club, to be bent over at a moment's notice.

Enji didn't know how they were chosen, if the club paid them more, if they'd done something to piss off the owner.  They were often well used.  Enji never partook, but they were easy to spot, often with a few men gathered around them.  He usually ignored them, browsing the boys with red collars to choose a companion for the night, or now and then, if one didn't strike his fancy, a black collared boy.  They were always eager to please.

Tonight though.  Tonight there was a new boy.  

Enji hadn't been to the club in about a week, so he could have started sooner, but he hadn't seen him before.  He was slender, lean, blonde, his hair untamed, as if windblown.  He wore only a very short skirt that didn't cover his ass, the deep red contrasting beautifully with his lightly tanned skin.

There were a pair of small red wings tattooed on his back, stretched over his shoulder blades, the longest feathers dipping down about four inches.  Enji wasn't a huge tattoo fan, but he could tell the work was very well done.

He could see some makeup around his eyes, highlighting the flashing gold, giving him a piercing sort of gaze.  But rather than a red collar gracing his neck, and he was more than pretty enough for one, his collar was yellow.

Yellow .

There were three boys with yellow collars this evening and the other two, as all others before them, bent over and spread their legs willingly for the men that approached them, shot coy looks over their shoulders, or laid back on stools to offer themselves, moaning and encouraging the men that took them.

This boy.  He had to be pushed down.  Bore the attention stoically.  He didn't deny them, or fight them.  But he gave no indication that he enjoyed his position.

Enji was instantly intrigued.

He didn't have to wait long for a server to stop at his table.  They were always sharp-eyed, eager to please and in search of large tips from rich men.  He didn't fault them for it.

He ordered a drink, top shelf whiskey on the rocks, then fixed the boy with his intense blue eyes.

"So.  I see the club has a new addition."  His gaze flicked to the blonde in the yellow collar, then back, watching as the server's head swiveled, caught sight of who he meant and turned back.

"Know anything about him?"

"Oh, the new bicycle?"  The server, red haired, just a little too thin for Enji's tastes, smiled at him suggestively.  "He started a few days ago.  You could get to know him very quickly if you wanted."

Enji smiled in reply, polite.  The expression didn't come close to his eyes.  "I'm afraid I'm not the best at sharing."  He slipped a hand into his breast pocket, fingers pulling a fifty free, waving it in the server's direction, a clear offer, if he got what he wanted.

"How much is his time?"

The server's smile slipped, expression going confused.  "But-  He's free.  For everyone."  He knew Enji was a regular, that he knew how things worked.

"I can see the collar around his neck."  He held the bill out, a true offer.  "Ask Kurogiri for me.  Tell him I want the boy as an evening companion."

Everyone knew who Kurogiri was.  He stood at the bar, pouring drinks, wiping down glasses.  Posing as a mild mannered tender.  But he controlled the boys' time.  Took appointments, requests, denied those that couldn't quite afford the asked prices.  To get what one wanted, they needed to stay on his good side.

Everything he knew, saw, learned, could go straight to The League's head.

The server took the money, uncertainty clear on his face, but who was he to turn down a tip?  Enji watched him rush away with his order and his request and sat back on his sofa, arms spread over the back as he waited.

It was Kurogiri himself that walked over, about ten minutes later, carrying Enji's ordered drink, setting it on the table before him.  He was a tall man, slender, dressed in slacks and a white button down shirt with a tie, a seamlessly tailored vest settled over the ensemble.  He wore a mask however, black, with only the hint of a face molded into what appeared to be leather.  The eye sockets were covered with lenses reminiscent of sunglasses, glinting yellow in the light.  His hair was black and wispy, almost seeming to float in the club’s low light, giving him an ethereal yet slightly malevolent vibe.

Enji knew that many Patrons thought the mask was a hint that Kurogiri was into BDSM, maybe the sub to The League's head.  Enji's personal theory was that the mask allowed him to watch everyone, see everything while simply seeming to be lost in his own little world behind the bar, innocuous.  It was also a damn good way for him to keep his anonymity.

"I hear that you're interested in our new… acquisition."  His voice was low and smooth, only faintly muffled.  Enji figured the mask must be much more breathable than it looked.

Lifting the glass, he tipped it in a little salute to the bartender, taking a sip to savor the alcohol, answering only once he'd set it down again.

"I am.  I'd like to buy his time for the evening."

Kurogiri's head tilted.  "Yet you could have him for nothing at all."

"But then I'd have to share.  And I'm not generally a man interested in fleeting moments of pleasure.  I'd much rather take my time."

Kurogiri was clearly studying him, considering.  "You wanting to buy his time presents me with a problem.  Everyone has already seen his yellow collar.  He's developed some admirers.  And they like just being able to have him.  They'd be very jealous, if he's taken from them.  Not to mention, he's been put where he is for a reason."

Enji cocked his own head.  "I appreciate your position.  However, I can't worry about another man getting jealous simply because he didn't think to offer first.  Their own greed will be the cause of their loss.  And you and I both know he'd make you far more money in a black or red collar."

"I do know this.  But it's not always my decision.  What do you propose?"

Enji offered the man a smile.  "Take him off the floor.  Let him get cleaned up, changed.  Put a different collar on him, I don't care the color, and let him keep me company tonight."

"And for compensation?"

"Name your price.  You know I'm not a man to shy away from the finer things, and the price tag associated with them."  He lifted his glass again, giving it a slight waggle in illustration.

"I'll have to charge you more than the typical red collar would fetch.  You're making my life more difficult than it needs to be."

Unless otherwise stated, most boys wearing red collars commanded one hundred dollars an hour.  Occasionally more if the Parton had a special request, or the boy was uncommonly pretty or popular.  It helped manage demand, if nothing else.  It was unheard of for someone in a yellow collar to be requested, let alone for such a price.

Enji hummed, thoughtful, but smiled.  Kurogiri could have easily denied him.  Told the server to take his drink over with a flat 'no'.

"Four fifty an hour.  Let me move to a secluded booth, to keep any of his admirers from causing a fuss and I'll add a tip to the bar.  For your trouble."

Kurogiri considered for another moment in silence, then shrugged his shoulders, as if it was out of his hands.  "Very well.  I'll send someone to escort you.  Your companion will be with you in half an hour."

Decision made, Kurogiri turned and glided away, back to his domain, leaving Enji to grin to himself.  

~*~

It was, in fact, thirty five minutes.

His server had returned, offering him a smile and carrying another glass, compliments of Kurogiri.  He was led to one of the more secluded booths, a dim area to one side and up a couple of steps.  There were no truly private rooms.  LoV didn't want to deal with what might go on in them.

Instead, here, the booths were farther apart, with clear partitions.  There was no way to close them, anyone could walk in, but no one would unless absolutely necessary.  They were used by LoV's more secretive Patrons.  Enji was sure he'd seen Yagi, the Governor, step from one once.  As per the club's understandings, no one ever mentioned it.

Once resettled, the boy set his drink on the table and accepted the envelope Enji had for the bartender.  His tip.  And a hundred for the server with the request that he not tell anyone what had happened to the new plaything.

The server smiled mischievously and accepted the money.  Enji knew he'd keep the information to himself.  Unless someone offered him an amount he just couldn't refuse.  Even so, Enji wouldn't be named.  It would just be said that 'a Patron had bought his time.'  Let them wonder.

He sipped his drink while he waited, enjoying the extra quiet that the taller sides of the booth afforded him. When he finally heard someone approaching, probably two someones, given the talking, he sat up a little straighter, watching the opening expectantly.

It wasn't the server that had been attending him before.  The secluded booths had their own staff, pretty, yes, but more mindful of the Patrons under their care, used to listening for when they were wanted.  And adept at hearing nothing else.

"But why?  This doesn't make any sense."

"As I said, you were requested."

"But-"

"Here we are."

The attendant's silhouette appeared, staying slightly off to one side, a hand gesturing their companion in.

The boy stepped in a moment later.  Boy.  But not.  Up close, Enji could tell that he was likely in his early twenties.  He was on the petite side, definitely shorter than Enji himself, though he was a fairly large man.  

His hair looked damp, but somehow still messy, a little spikey.  He'd clearly reapplied his eye makeup, black lining the lids, sharp marks at the corners, highlighting the gold, making his eyes look bigger from so close.  The skirt he'd been wearing was gone.  Instead, he wore an oversized shirt, the neck too wide for him, letting one smooth shoulder peek out.  It seemed to be a soft gray, making his skin look warm, highlighting the tan.

It fell to mid thigh, and Enji couldn't tell if he actually had anything on under it.  His feet were bare and, taking it the whole look, it made him look even younger.

Still intriguing.

Enji offered the boy a smile and gestured to the sofa in invitation.

"I appreciate you joining me.  Care to take a seat?"

Said boy paused just inside of the booth, staring at the man that had invited him.  For one long stretch of seconds, shock showed on his face, eyes fixed squarely on Enji, recognition clear, eyes wide.

He recovered quickly, expression wiped to neutrality, and padded into the booth proper, making his way to the sofa to half flop onto it, one leg curling under himself.  The motion made his shirt ride up, showing more thigh and Enji still couldn't tell if there was anything else underneath.

The attendant disappeared, gone silently and Enji let all of his attention fall on his companion.

"I have an inkling that you may know who I am.  But I'm Enji."

The boy didn't confirm or deny that he'd recognized Enji, but they both knew that he didn't have to.

"I'm Hawks.  I didn't expect anybody to request my time, considering.  And I'm pretty new here.  So I wasn't really sure what to wear."  He picked at the shirt hem a little, giving more flashes of creamy thigh and hints of what might be higher up.

Hawks didn't sound like much of a name, but it was more than Enji had had before.  And the club thrived on anonymity.  He couldn't begrudge the boy a second name.

"I did notice that you were new.  I'm familiar enough with this club to know that you should be wearing a different color collar.  I thought perhaps you might have volunteered for the position, but you didn't seem to be enjoying yourself as many of the others do.  So it had me wondering; why would a beautiful young man, who should be wearing a red collar and commanding top price, be wearing yellow and free for anyone that can get in?"

Hawks wrinkled his nose, watching Enji.  He wasn't a dishonest person.  And knowing who Enji was, he didn't want to lie to him.

"It wasn't my choice.  I mean, working here mostly was."

"Mostly?"

Hawks smiled wryly.  "It's fucking cold out.  If I work here, I can stay here.  Warm place to stay and enough money for food.  You learn to appreciate that quick."

Enji wasn't overly surprised that Hawks didn't have a home.  He was sure he wasn't the first homeless boy or possible runaway to find his way to LoV.  Considering their business practices all over the city, he imagined they thrived on such people.  And he also knew the club was very strict about health.  It was part of the draw for wealthier Patrons, so that wasn’t a concern.

"How did you find your way here, if you don't mind me asking?  LoV tends to be pretty exclusive."

"I ran a few errands to earn some money here and there.  I just happened to run into Dabi the one day.  He asked me a few questions, then mentioned the club.  He was upfront about it, what it entailed.  I don't mind sex, or being arm candy.  So I said sure and he brought me home, I guess you could say."

Enji knew the name Dabi and felt his eye twitch slightly at the mention, but he didn't acknowledge it.

"It sounds like perhaps it wasn't a match made in heaven?"

"Dabi's fine.  As long as things run smoothly, I don't think he cares about most of the details.  But Shigaraki is a jealous, crusty bitch."

Hawks' words surprised a laugh out of Enji.  "Boy, your mouth is going to get you into trouble."

Hawks grinned, shrugging his bare shoulder, shooting Enji a mischievous look.  "It gets me into and out of trouble."

Enji couldn't help but chuckle, settling deeper into the sofa, gratified to see Hawks relaxing.

"So what, you were brought home to the wife and she threw a fit?"  Enji knew who Shigaraki was.  The current head of The League.  He was said to be a quiet, frightening person.  Not into dealing with people but amazing at balancing all of The League's concerns and dealing swiftly and brutally with problems.  Enji had never seen him and hoped to keep his distance.

Shigaraki might not be a people person, but he'd somehow amassed a loyal, small group that surrounded him.

Hawks snorted, eyes alight with mirth.

"Basically.  I mean, he didn't throw me out.  He knows I could make him money.  But Dabi had to say something like 'yeah, he's cute' and Shigaraki did that creepy smile thing where he's smiling but totally plotting your murder and then said he'd be happy to take me on with a contract deal, to pay for room and board and whatnot and then does this shit."

Hawks huffed.  Probably because he'd said all of that without a breath, Enji thought.  He certainly could talk.  But given that Enji was more of a quiet type, it helped fill the silence.

"I know workers here get paid but I'm not exactly familiar with the setup."

Hawks waved a hand.  "It's kinda like working on commission.  They make a percentage.  So the prettier, more popular ones make more, because they get more an hour.  I could probably be making Shigaraki all kinds of money, but he has to be a petty dick and slight himself just to punish me.  Cumdumps-"  Hawks cut himself off with a roll of the eyes, affecting a nasaly sort of accent that Enji assumed was meant to be Shigaraki.

" Community boys get a set rate per hour since they're free."  Hawks pouted, then lifted his hands to frame his face on each side, fluttering his eyelashes at Enji.

"I mean, have you seen this face?  I could be making money hand over fist."

Enji smirked faintly.  "Someone thinks highly of themselves."

"Hey, if I don't, who will?"  He grinned, a little cocky sure, but equally as self depreciating.

"So," Enji hummed, running through Hawks' babble.  "You have a contract with Shigaraki that needs to be paid back, but he's put you in a position that, a, you're not exactly thrilled about, and b, doesn't allow you to make as much money and thus have a harder time paying him back?"

"Bingo."  Hawks actually shot a finger gun at Enji.  It shouldn't have been endearing.  "Can barely pay it, honestly.  You'd think he'd wanna get his money out of me and kick my ass out the door.  Maybe he just likes growling at Dabi about me and trying to catch him looking.  I bet they have hate sex."

Enji grimaced.  "Please don't use 'Dabi' and 'sex' in the same sentence ever again."

Hawks smiled, but his eyes went sharp, looking suddenly like his namesake.  He cooed at Enji, sweet as sugar.  

"Aww, what's wrong, Enji? Don't wanna think about Shigaraki is all his glory tangled up in bed with your son?"  He leaned forward a little.  "How do you know he didn't give me an audition before offering the job?"

Enji felt his blood run cold, then his anger ignite like a flash fire.  No one knew.  How-  his smile twisted into something dark, almost a sneer.

"Who are you?"

"I told you who I am.  And as for what I am, you know that too.  Just a poor boy from the streets, trying to make some money here."

Enji's expression said he didn't believe him.  He reached out to grip Hawks upper arm, tugging him closer, leaning close to glare into those gold eyes.

"How-"

"C'mon, Enji."  Hawks' voice was smooth and low, like he was telling the larger man a secret.  "You're an older man that comes to a club full of pretty boys that you can have, if you want.  I know you have the money.  Even if you only decide to look, Dabi is attractive.  You'd have seen him, once or twice.  You clearly know who he is.  There are only a few reasons you wouldn't want to think of him that way." 

Hawks tipped his head down a little to look up at Enji through his lashes.  " And you have the same eyes.  That's a very particular color of blue. And ."  He paused for dramatic effect, smiling beautifically.  "You just told me."

Enji scoffed, disgusted, but mostly at himself.  Hawks might look like an angel, but he was pretty sure he was an actual demon.

"I was right about your mouth.  Brat."  He gave Hawks a little shake, his temper cooling slowly.  "It's no wonder Shigaraki threw you to the wolves.  I bet you tried to be cute with him, didn't you?"

"What can I say?  I can't help it."  Hawks leaned a little closer, reaching over to trace his fingertips over the hand on his arm.  "But I got you to touch me, even if I had to piss you off first."

Enji considered snatching his hand back, just to spite him.  "You knew exactly who I was, didn't you?"

Hawks cocked his head, looking like a bird as he considered.  Damn his honestness.  "I've been staring at pictures of you for years.  I'd know you anywhere."

The answer took Enji by surprise, his grip slackening, but not falling away.

"Me?  Why?"

Confidence finally seeming to waver, Hawks dropped his gaze, a light flush, hard to see in the low light of the booth, coloring his cheeks.

"You put my old man away when I was a kid.  You were the only one that could make the charges stick.  Saved me from turning out like him.  Or wearing bruises for the rest of my life."

Enji found himself at a loss.  He wasn't sure he'd ever had anyone grateful for convicting their family before.  He supposed an abusive father would be more of a relief to lose though.  "So it was just you and your mother?"

Hawks' smile was lopsided.  "For a year, maybe.  Then she decided that she couldn't live without him and tried to sell me to move closer to the prison they sent him to."

"She tried to sell you?"

Hawks chuckled.  "Yeah, didn't turn out like she hoped.  I'm fast.  And don't look at me like that.  I turned out okay.  I might be in this place right now, but I've got plans.  I made sure to get a decent education.  I'm gonna be an attorney.". He said it proudly.

Enji blinked, surprised once more.  "An attorney?"

"Mmhm."  Hawks inched a little closer to Enji.  "I can do some good."

"How are you going to pay for law school?"

Rather than look discouraged, Hawks shruged.  "I'll figure it out.  Shigaraki can't keep me down.  I'm adaptable.  Plus, I study a lot on my own.  There have to be tests I can take to place out of things.  Maybe I can just swing needing the practical experience."

Enji had to reconsider his companion.  He didn't think Hawks would be stupid.  But he wasn't expecting the intellect hiding behind those golden eyes.  Sharp eyes.  Observant.  And he could clearly draw connections.  He'd be dangerous in a courtroom.

The night had absolutely not headed in the direction Enji had expected.  But his interest was piqued.  He'd at least been right that the boy was interesting.  And now his mind was working over how Hawks might get into the law world, turning ideas over.

"You might be able to find a sponsor.  Or an internship at least.  It wouldn't exactly be easy without a degree, but you don't need one to take the Barr.  And if you pass, well.  Some Agency will take you on.  All you need is a foot in the door to prove yourself."

Hawks watched him, gaze intent, studying.  Finally, he blinked once.  "You're serious.  You actually believe me."

Enji looked up, breaking from his swirling thoughts, frowning slightly.  "Believe you?  Were you trying out some elaborate joke?"

Hawks was moving, seconds after Enji finished speaking , crawling over the small expanse of sofa between them and right into Enji's lap, decisively planting himself over the larger man's thighs, arms curling around his neck.

Flailing wasn't something high class professionals did.  And Enji certainly didn't.  He didn't shout in surprise either.  And absolutely hadn't almost forgotten that he was in a club that was full of beautiful, nearly naked boys that he could buy for a night.

His hands landed on Hawks' hips, fingers curling around, finding that he did have something under that shirt.  A skimpy, lacy scrap of something stretched over his ass.  He could perfectly imagine how it lay over his skin, what it did and didn ' t cover, the swell of cheek they let peek out.

"Hawks-"

He was cut off by soft lips nibbling over his jaw, his fingers flexing with the tease.

"Mmm?"  It was a questioning hum, pressed against his skin.

"I didn't- I mean.."  He couldn't say that he hadn't intended for this.  He'd bought Hawks' time for the night.  But he'd quickly come to think of him as not just a pretty boy that might be happy to share a little pleasure with him, but as a frighteningly smart young man that could actually build himself a future, no matter his circumstances.

"I wasn't joking.  But I'm used to people not taking me seriously when I talk about my future.  Plus, you're you .  Successful, top of your field.  The number one."

Enji let go of a hip to slide his fingers into Hawks' hair, tipping his head up to meet his eyes.  "Number one is generous."

Hawks smiled winningly at him, tipping his head into Enji's fingers.  "You're my number one."

"You're a flattering brat, boy."  Despite his words, Enji's voice was amused.

With an unconcerned shrug, Hawks leaned closer, moving a hand to press it against Enji's chest, sliding slowly towards the buttons of his shirt.  "I've wanted you since I was thirteen and figured out what my dick was for.  I know they say never meet your heroes, but I'm having a pretty awesome time."

Enji actually sputtered.  This boy.  Enji was so fucked.  And those clever little fingers were sneakily opening his buttons, lips pushing out in a pout at the tank underneath that was blocking him from skin.

It was unfairly adorable.

He reached for the hem of Hawks shirt, slowly slipping it up, nudging at his arms once he got close enough.  Hawks dutifully lifted his arms to allow the fabric to be stripped away, left in just a pair of black panties, tight enough to hug every line of his cock, at least half hard and trapped along his lower belly.

Hawks bit his lower lip.  "I wasn't sure what to wear, considering.  I could have walked in naked I guess, but most people like something to unwrap."

Enji smiled.  "You are a gift, pretty bird."

Hawks' cock twitched and he blushed, cheeks going darker at Enji's chuckle.

"Liked that, did you?"

"Shut up, that's not fair." 

Enji simply hummed noncommittally, running his hands down Hawks' sides, trailing lower to give his hips a squeeze.  He slipped one hand inwards to cup Hawks through his panties, pressing lightly against the hard ridge, delighting in the roll of hips he earned.

"I do like unwrapping.  And while boys in panties aren't a kink of mine, you make them look good."  He hooked two fingers into the strap at his hip, slowly dragging them down, down until Hawks’ cock could spring free, unable to keep from smiling at the boy’s groan of relief.

"A little tight?"

"Mmm.  I like how they feel sometimes, but not when I'm hard."

Hawks was well proportioned for his body size, his length filling Enji's palm nicely.  He wrapped his fingers around him, stroking slowly a couple of times.  "You seem much more eager now than you did on the floor."

Wrapping an arm around Enji's neck, Hawks leaned back a little, resting his other hand on Enji's knee, managing to both display himself for Enji's view and give himself leverage to press his hips forward into the grip.

"Out there, I'm only there for them.  They don't care about what I feel.  A couple of them managed to find the right angle, but they didn't last long."  He moaned, tipping his head back.  "Only wanna watch themselves fill me up.  Don't care if I like it or not.  And I'm not gonna pretend to stroke their egos."

Enji watched him, enraptured, taking a moment to stroke just over the head of Hawks' cock, fisting him with a little twist, grinning at the gasp.

"Are you not pretending to stroke my ego?"

"Ah- fuck, Enji.  Don't have to pretend with you.  Come on, jack me, please .  You can do anything you want after, I just really need to come."

He had half a mind to tease him.  The brat probably deserved it.  But at the same time, he’d had to suffer through his boredom out among the other Patrons, to simply take what he was given.  And though mouthy, he also seemed to know just what to say to push Enji's buttons, both good and bad.

Enji started stroking him, steady and firm, watching as his eyes fluttered shut, his hips snapping up.  His groan sounded grateful, his breaths hitching on each slide up.

"Mmmn.."

He was a vision and while Enji hadn't had any regrets about the money he was spending on Hawks, if he had, they'd be gone now.  The position showed off the lean muscle along Hawks' sides, his belly, let his thighs flex with the eager, needy motions of his hips.

"Like that pretty bird?  No one else even tried to touch your cock, did they?  Look at what they missed."

Hawks' lips fell open, bitten pink and plush, moaning as his hips rolled, the hand on Enji's knee gripping tight.

"Fuck, your voice.  Always knew-"  he cut himself off with a whine, fucking up into Enji's hand.

"Always knew what?  Tell me."

"Knew- knew you'd be fucking hot, talking dirty.  Shouldn't be allowed to say cock, shit."

Enji grined, dark and lazy.  Hawks' reactions were gratifying, encouraging in the best way, making his blood heat and his appetite swell.  He could understand the old tales of Incubi, subsisting only on the pleasure of others, because right now, with Hawks, he felt like he was being fed.  Finding a satisfaction that he rarely found.

He watched him as he got closer, cataloging every little sign, the way his fingers tightened, the ones at the back of his neck curling into the short hairs there.  The flush over his cheeks, dusting his chest, the light sheen of sweat over his temples.  Enji could feel his muscles tensing, watched his head fall back, the long line of his throat exposed.  He wondered how far his fingers would wrap around the slender column.

"Getting close, Hawks.  I can see it.  Doing so well.  Just a little more."

Hawks lifted his head slowly, gasping as Enji swept the pad of his thumb over the head of his cock.  "Want it.  Fuck, Enji, so much better than the others."

"They don't deserve to touch you."  Enji meant it, growling the words as he tightened his grip.

Sucking in a breath, Hawks snapped his hips up, limbs trembling faintly.  "O-only- only you.  Only getting off with you, God, Enji-"  He arched a little harder, gnawing at his lower lip.  "Gonna come, gonna come, gonnacome-"

Hawks was an irresistible force, not content to just let Enji touch him, but moving with him, panting with the workout, with just how close he was.  Enji wanted him to tip over the edge, to know he was the only one in the club that had cause it.

"Yes, you are.  For me.  Going to make a mess for me, pretty bird?  Sing for me?"

He couldn't answer, other than to whine, high and tight.

"Fuck, fuck- Enji, Enji, Enji…"  He chanted his name, breaking off with a gasp, then bit his lower lip hard, curling up and in against Enji as he fell into his orgasm.

Enji managed to get a hand into that wild blonde hair, tugging his head back gently in order to see his face, to not muffle the little ' mmn, mmn, mmn 's Hawks made as he made a mess of Enji's fist and his own belly and thighs.

He didn't fight the hold, too busy trying not to shake apart in Enji's lap, but as soon as his body started to sag, going lax, he tried to curl inwards, to press his face in against Enji's chest.  Or into his neck.  He wasn't picky.

Once his face began to relax, flushed and bright from his orgasm, he let Hawks slump forward, resting both arms around the boy in his lap, feeling oddly protective.  Hawks immediately tucked himself close, cheek resting against Enji's broad chest, hair tucked under his chin.

It was quiet in their booth, comfortable.  "Feel better?"

"Mmm, you have no idea."  Hawks sighed, trying to settle himself closer, clearly a cuddle seeker.  Enji wasn't surprised.  "You're right though.  Not a single one tried to get me off.  Or get me hard.  Not that I really wanted them touching me."

Enji hummed, not thinking about the other Patrons having Hawks.  It didn't matter.  He'd had Hawks in a way they never would.  Hawks' words from earlier tickled at his mind.

"Did he give you an audition?"

"Hmm?"  Hawks' brain was clearly still a bit foggy.  

"Dabi."  Enji said the name like it physically pained him.

Hawks was quiet for a moment, then chuckled, slowly lifting his head.  Enji was avoiding his gaze, but he pressed a hand to his cheek, more a request than a demand and Enji's eyes flicked up automatically, caught and held by gold.

"No.  Dabi isn't a bad looking guy.  And now that I know about it, I can see some resemblance."  In attitude as well, but he didn't point that out.  "But he didn't ask and I didn't offer.  And if either of us had, Shigaraki would have flayed us alive.  He's the jealous type."

"I don't believe I've ever met Shigaraki."

"You'd remember if you had."  Hawks sat up slowly, resettling himself, shifting his hips closer, happy to feel the bulge still trapped in Enji's pants.  He reached down between them to press a hand over it, smiling up at the larger man he was perched on.

"So, what can I do for you, number one?"

"Mmm?"  The sound Enji made was questioning.  As if he didn't know exactly what Hawks was implying.

"Oh come now, Enji."  Hawks smiled at him, using his smoothest, sweetest voice, fingers dancing down the opening of Enji's shirt, pushing his undershirt up.  "I know you don't do anything Pro Bono."

Enji chuckled, leaning forward a little to slip his arms from his button-down, draping it to one side, letting Hawks eager fingers push his undershirt up higher.  Higher and off.  Enji sat back once his arms were free and the shirt stripped over his head, letting Hawks look his fill, those gold eyes wide.

"Goddamn, Enji."  He knew the man was fit.  The expensive cut of his suits made that clear.  But he hadn't expected the musculature beneath his fingers, the sheer cut of him.  He could trace every line, following them from his chest ever lower, down to work on his pants.

"Do you live at the gym when you're not in the courtroom?  How many guys do you have there bending over for you and begging?"

Enji grunted, the sound vaguely negative, but mostly in reply to Hawks' fingers making their way inside to wrap around his cock.  He'd been hard for a while, feeling tight and pent-up and was more than ready to come.

"I have- a home gym."  His voice hitched just slightly as Hawks' hand moved, mapping the size and shape of him, carefully working him free of his pants.

"Fuck, you're big.  Knew you would be.  Home gym?  Probably smart.  They'd be panting after you, begging you to fuck them.  Wouldn't want a scandal if you got caught railing some pretty guy over the weights."  Hawks shifted, quick and decisive, pulling his legs in and slithering down between Enji's legs, leaning in to leisurely lick over the head of his cock.

Enji hissed, reaching a hand down to slip into Hawks' hair, sliding through the wild strands.  He just couldn't seem to help running his mouth.  Enji approved of him putting it to better use.

He opened his mouth to tell the boy so, but those mischievous golden eyes were on him, knowing, and he wrapped his lips around him to suck before Enji could tell him too.  It dragged a groan deep from his chest, head falling back against the sofa.

Hawks settled in, resting his hand on Enji's thigh, the other wrapped around the base of his dick.  There was no way he was going to be able to swallow it all.  He hummed, sucking as he bobbed his head steadily, stroking over the half, half , of Enji's dick that wasn't in his mouth.  He could probably swallow more, but didn't feel like choking.  Enji was big .

Enji slumped a little more on the sofa, letting his thighs fall open, fingers tightening and relaxing minutely in Hawks' hair, almost kneading at him as he worked.  He didn't seem quite as practiced as Enji might have expected, but then, he'd said he'd only been at the club for a few days.  And it was nice, knowing that Hawks was less experienced.  Even so, his mouth was hot, tight around his cock, working him over eagerly.

It was just what he needed, his hips twitching up slightly, not enough to push much deeper into Hawks' mouth, just enough to feel an extra drag over his tongue.

He didn't know how long they stayed that way, Hawks nestled between his thighs, head bobbing lazily as he sucked Enji, working him steadily toward his orgasm.  It wasn't the fast, desperate rush that Hawks' had been.  But inevitable, deep and all consuming.

He barely needed to guide him, Hawks using his incredible powers of observation , feeling the growing tension in the muscles under his hand, the twitching of Enji's cock.  The low, rough noises he made.  

Hawks moved faster as Enji got closer, stroking him quicker, fingers tight, up to meet his lips and down again, squeezing on the upward slide.  He could feel the fingers tightening in his hair, hear the way Enji’s breathing quickened and he pushed himself to take a little more of him, swallow another inch.

He glanced up, as well as he was able, given the angle he was working with.  He was gorgeous, head tipped back, the muscles in his neck standing out as he clenched his teeth.  Hawks wished he'd talk to him, groan dirty things in that low voice.  Maybe next time.  He really hoped there'd be a next time.

Enji felt the urge to arch up, to twist with the pleasure coiling tight in his belly.  He was so close, felt his toes curling in his shoes. He bit out a groan, choked out Hawks name- and broke.

"Hawks-"

Hawks huffed a muffled noise around Enji's cock, mouth suddenly flooded with slick heat.  He swallowed what he could, could feel some escaping the corner of his lips to dribble down his chin but ignored it.  He pulled off with a soft gasp and a lewd, wet noise, continuing to stroke Enji, looking up at him, watching him sag down into the cushions.

His cheeks were flushed, his red hair looking a little droopy with the sweat shining on his forehead.  He was stunning.  Hawks laved his tongue over the head of his cock, a little teasing as he watched him.

Enji groaned, shifting a little under the attention as it quickly grew to be too much.  He cracked his eyes open, giving Hawks' hair a light tug.  "Fuck.  Enough, you brat."

Hawks grinned, following the pull upwards, climbing himself back into Enji's lap, reaching for his own shirt to wipe at his chin.  It wasn't his favorite taste, but for Enji…  he found his wrist caught, the shirt plucked away for Enji to wipe gently at his face, clearing away the mess on his skin.  He lifted his gaze to Enji's face, but he wasn't meeting his eyes, watching his own hands move instead.

Once his skin was clean, Enji set the shirt aside, then reached for the table in front of them, snagging his glass to offer it to Hawks.

"Enji?"

"To help with the taste in your mouth."

Hawks blinked once, then accepted the glass, taking a slow sip.  It did help.  And burned on the way down, despite being smooth.  Very smooth.  He slipped again, ducking his head a little until he could catch Enji's gaze.

"Top shelf, huh?  I figured you'd have a taste for the finer things."

"Must be why I like you."  He met Hawks' eye as he said it, letting his hands settle on the boy's hips, resting there.

He couldn't help but stare.  Enji shouldn't be saying shit like that to him.  He already liked him too much as it was.  He took another slow drink from the glass, buying himself some time.

"I don't think I qualify for that, Enji."

"I guess it's a good thing that it isn't up to you then, isn't it?"

Hawks opened his mouth to retort, but Enji spoke first.

"I'd like to visit with you again.  Tomorrow night.  If you're willing."

Hawks was never at a loss for words.  Except when he was with Enji, it seemed.  He wanted permission to see him?  He thought he was something fine ?  He broke his gaze away, drawing the glass and setting it aside.

"Enji-"

"I know you technically work here.  But if you tell me no, I won't ask for you again."

"Of course I want to see you again-!"

Enji's hand was on his cheek almost as soon as he said the words, drawing him in to claim his lips, firm but somehow gentle, possessive.  Hawks froze.  Then melted against him, curling both arms around his neck to press closer.

He didn't hold the kiss long, just long enough to prove his point, then broke away, letting their foreheads rest against each other.

"I don't know if Kurogiri will let you see me again.  I'll probably be on the floor again tomorrow.  Shigaraki might even-"

"Let me worry about Kurogiri and Shigaraki.  I don't care what color collar they put on you.  I'll request you anyway."

"Then… hopefully I'll see you tomorrow."

Enji smiled, and gave Hawks' hips a squeeze.  "You will."

~*~

Enji tried not to think about Hawks the entire next day.  It didn't work out well for him.  He was lucky he was a fairly stoic person in his professional life, able to sit back, keep his face blank and appear to be paying attention.  Or look too intimidating for others to bother him.

However, it had been embarrassing when, lost in thoughts of Hawks and his lithe body, his quick wit, he'd been snapped to awareness by Burnin', his paralegal, blinking at him.

"Sir?"

"Yes?"

"I asked you a question.  And called your name.  Twice."

"Ah- my apologies.  I was lost in thought about a future case.  What was it you needed?"

She'd eyed him suspiciously, not nearly as intimidated by him as she used to be, but continued on.

He'd known Hawks for a day and he already looked forward to seeing him far more than was healthy.  At least the boy seemed equally as interested.  He wasn't lying completely, if at all.  Enji had asked him some questions as they rested together, letting the evening pass them by.  He did have knowledge of the law, the in’s and out’s of practice, had been teaching himself.

When Enji had asked him how he kept books while on the street, Hawks had scoffed good-naturedly at him.

"There's this awesome thing called a public library.  You can get a card to take out books any time.  Or sit in there reading.  Or even look up old newspapers. And-"  Hawks had continued on, plowing over Enji's twisted face and protest at not knowing what a library was.  "There's this even more awesome thing called The Internet where you can learn literally anything.  Anything .  You can go on YouTube and people have created what are basically free classes.  I have a phone.  I can learn anything."

Enji had had to grant him that that was true.  You could find anything, good or bad on the internet.  And if Hawks wanted to turn it into his classroom, well.  He'd already shown more initiative and work ethic than his last five interns.  Combined.

It was later than usual when he finally got out of work, needing to finish up some paperwork for an ongoing case, and forced himself to stop for food before heading to the club.  He could order food there, but they didn't serve meals, simply appetizers and finger foods.  He didn't need to be hungry and irritable when he was trying to relax and enjoy a certain boy's company.

He ate in his car, which he never did, parking in the exclusive lot reserved for valued LoV Patrons.  There seemed to be a small line at the door, which was unusual and Enji considered standing in it before mentally shrugging and heading straight for the door.  

The people in line seemed wise enough not to grumble as he was let through immediately, a subtle flash of his card earning him a nod and a gesture through.  He tried not to look too smug about it.

Once inside, he was waved to the hallway that connected to the club proper, as always.  The line outside seemed to be for the front of the house, the official, but public club.  A sign said something about a drink special and new dancers.

Enji paid it no mind, allowing the boy at the door to take his jacket once he entered, favoring him with a rare smile.  He declined the offer to be seated however, heading straight for the bar.

Kurogiri was there, as always, wiping down the bartop.  He seemed to catch sight of Enji once he was about halfway to the bar and straightened, his shoulders rising and falling in what was probably a sigh.  Enji didn't pause, walking to the bar to perch on a stool.  He nodded once, politely.

"Good evening, Kurogiri."

"Mr. Todoroki.  I'd ask what I could do for you this evening, but I think I have an idea already."

"I'd imagine you're right.  You're an incredibly intelligent man, after all."

The noise Kurogiri made was slightly muffled behind his mask, but sounded like a snort.  "Flattery will get you nowhere with me.  Not even the boys here can manage that."

"Oh, I wouldn't flatter you."  Enji was flattering him, but he meant it as well.  Kurogiri had to be very intelligent to keep everything in the place organized and running as smoothly as it did.

Despite having his face completely covered, Kurogiri's body language somehow broadcast that he was rolling his eyes.  Hard.

"You've made my life exceedingly difficult.  I had several complaints last night that Hawks left the floor.  And three gentlemen this evening offered to buy his time for the evening."

Enji cocked his head, resting an elbow against the bar.  "And what did you tell them?"

"That the amount they offered wasn't worth the aggravation they were trying to cause me."  Kurogiri lifted a glass, selecting the same whiskey Enji had ordered the night before, filling the crystal.  He slid it slowly across the bar.

"And now you've come to offer me more aggravation."

Enji managed not to chuckle, but he did smile some.  "I'd apologize, but I wouldn't want to lie to you."  Kurogiri started pulling the glass back.  "You know I'll make a much better offer than they did.  Both for the hours and for your aggravation."

Kurogiri pushed the glass back towards Enji once more.  "You're going to make Shigaraki have a stroke."

"From what I've heard, Hawks can do that on his own."

"Jesus.  Take him and go.  Take him home with you.  He gets too much attention.  And makes too many people whine."

Enji did chuckle, picking up the glass to take a slow sip.  "Pretty sure I wouldn't make it out of here in one piece if I tried.  And I wouldn't take Hawks anywhere unless he wanted to go."

Kurogiri shook his head, picking up a glass to wipe.  "You've got it bad.  And Hawks isn't a prisoner here.  He can leave at any time.  This is going to cause me trouble later.  You'd better make it worth my while."

Slipping an envelope from his pocket, Enji slid it across the bar, sipping his drink again.

"I think this ought to tide you over."

Kurogiri eyed the thickness of the envelope, then lifted it, testing its weight.  It disappeared a moment later into his waistcoat. 

"The same arrangement as yesterday evening?"

"Please.  With another drink for me and one for him.  Maybe an appetizer as well."

Kurogiri's mask showed nothing.  The slant of his hips showed amused resignation.  "He'll be with you shortly.  Requests for food and drink?"

Enji just smiled.  "Surprise me."

~*~

The food and drinks made it before Hawks did, brought to his private booth by a young man with hair redder than his own, wide green eyes, and a black collar, smiling shyly at him.  Enji would have been enchanted, if he wasn't on the edge of his seat, waiting for a certain blonde.

Even so, he thanked the boy, gave him a tip and settled back to wait.

Time seemed to drag, as it always did when one was anticipating something.  But finally, he heard footsteps approaching.  A blonde head popped into the booth, peeking at who was inside.  Enji had a perfect view of those golden eyes lighting up and then Hawks was throwing himself across the space and onto the larger man.

"Enji!  You came back!"  He threw his arms around his neck, grinning.

His enthusiasm was infectious and Enji grinned back, curling both arms around the smaller form, squeezing him close.  He couldn't help it.  As it was, he craved holding him tighter, tugging him in to kiss him.  He needed to get a handle on his possessive behavior.

"I told you I would, pretty bird."

Hawks beamed, pressing his face his against Enji's neck, clearly not minding the closeness or the tightness of the hold.

"You did.  Saving me again, number one."  He lifted his head to smile up at Enji, soft and with goddamn stars in his eyes.

It made Enji's heart swell and he had to look away before it swallowed him, before he actually did take the boy and try to leave with him.  Instead, he nodded at the table, at the gently steaming food and cool glass sitting there.

"Are you hungry?"

Hawks swiveled his head, gaze catching on the offerings, staring.  "You got me food?"

"I don't know if you get breaks."

He looked back again, biting his lip as he stared at Enji.

Enji nudged him gently.  "Help yourself."

He couldn't argue.  He was actually hungry.  And a plate full of chicken strips?  It was calling his name.  And was that a tequila sunrise?

"Did you get me a drink too?  How did you know what I like?  Can I marry you?"  He slowly extracted himself from Enji's lap, selecting a piece.

"I told Kurogiri to surprise me."

"Awww…"  Hawks practically cooed, taking a bite from the breaded strip.  And talking with his mouth full.  "He doesh loff me."

Enji rolled his eyes.  "Don't talk with your mouth full."

Hawks took another bite, looking up at Enji through his lashes while he wiggled is eyebrows.  "You weren't complaining yesterday."

He immediately felt his cheeks flush and frowned, looking away.  "Brat."

Hawks just laughed, scooping up his drink to take a sip, wiggling happily on the edge of the sofa.  "You're the best sugar daddy ever."

Enji spluttered.  "A what now?"

His reply was a slow blink.

"A sugar daddy.  Someone that buys their sugar baby, me, nice things.  They get company and sex.  And my incredible wit, of course."

He.. couldn't really argue that.  He supposed that was what it looked like.  Though an actual sugar daddy would probably be more exclusive than having someone for a night.  Still.  He didn't mind buying Hawks things.  Especially when he was so pleased by them.

He was about to protest anyway, not sure if he wanted Hawks in a 'sugar baby' capacity, but unable to articulate just what capacity it was he did want.  He was cut off when he noticed Hawks' outfit, staring.

"What are you wearing?"

"Do you like it?" Hawks set his glass down, standing with a little bounce to face Enji, showing off his selection, turning to let him see the back as well.  "I picked it out for you."

It was simple, really.  A white button-down shirt with thin red pinstripes.  It fit him nicely, just a little big, the top two buttons undone.  What looked to be a red, silk tie, loose, hung down his front, looped around his neck and tied surprisingly well.  The shirt was just long enough to mostly cover his crotch, but not his ass.  He had on underwear that weren't panties exactly.

They hugged his hips, wide like a brief but cut differently, high in back to show a tempting swell of cheek.  The black color made Hawks' skin look smooth and creamy and Enji wanted to take a bite of him.

He was probably staring like an idiot.  The motion of Hawks turning his head, peeking over a shoulder registered in his peripheral vision and he snapped his eyes up, finding the boy smiling.

Hawks reached out to catch Enji's wrist, lifting his hand, tugging it towards one cheek, a clear offer.

Enji took that offer, cupping his palm over the curve, pressing a little, curling his fingers for a squeeze, getting a good handful, blue eyes on gold.  Those eyes were sultry, lids drooping down a little.  But as he squeezed a little tighter, letting his thumb dig in slightly towards the inside, he caught a wince, Hawks quickly turning his face away in an attempt to hide it.

His grip slowly loosened, though he didn't completely let go, the grip turning into a simple touch.

"You're sore."  It wasn't a question.

Hawks peeked back again, just one eye visible.  It was just enough for Enji to see his lips twisting into something wry.

"A little.  A couple guys really liked spankings tonight."

Enji rolled his eyes and Hawks hummed in agreement.  "If another one tried, I could have signaled Sekijiro.  He's one of the bouncers.  He's good about making sure we're comfortable.  But then you came for me."

Hawks turned a little more, careful not to dislodge Enji's touch, smiling at him.  "I like you touching me.  Just can't take it quite as hard tonight."

Settling back deeper into the cushions, Enji patted his lap.  "Just sit with me then.  I enjoy your company.  Finish your chicken.  I don't need sex to have a good time with you."

Hawks cocked his head, regarding Enji.  "You keep being that sweet to me and you'll never get rid of me."

"I guess I'm lucky that I don't want to get rid of you then."  He cut his eyes away, slightly embarrassed at his own honesty and found himself with a lap full of Hawks once more, the boy perched on his thighs, leaning forward to press their chests together, arms around his neck.

He settled both hands on Hawks' hips, finding that they fell there naturally.

"How are you real?  I always imagined you, but you're so serious when you work.  It was hard to think of you as soft and warm.  I'm glad you are."

"I'm not.  Usually."

Hawks smiled, letting their noses brush, almost speaking against his lips.  So I'm a special case, huh?"

He really was.  But Enji wasn't sure stroking his ego was the best idea.  He was already a little monster.  "A special case of brat."

Despite his words, his tone was soft, holding the warmth Hawks had mentioned.  He tipped his head up a little, lips brushing Hawks, then again, soft little presses, almost tender kisses that made Hawks sag against him, melting into the attention.

He broke away after, keeping their foreheads touching. 

"Finish your chicken."

Hawks groaned a protest, sighing against Enji.  "Make it hard to want to eat when you're giving me better things to do with my mouth."

" Brat ."

He just grinned, regretfully pulling back enough to shift, sitting sideways on Enji's lap to reach for the chicken, biting a strip in half and munching on it.  He offered a piece to Enji after finishing one, head tilted.

"You haven't eaten any.  Do you want some?"

"I ate before I came here."  He opened his mouth to accept the piece anyway, waiting for Hawks to move it closer, then caught it between his teeth, closing his lips over the tips of Hawks' fingers, sucking softly on them before pulling back, looking pleased with himself while he chewed.

Hawks stared, then shook himself, biting into another piece of chicken with added viciousness.  "You're a tease, daddy."

The name sent both a naughty thrill and a slight aversion through him, warring with each other.  His mouth twisted a little and Hawks chuckled, chewing on the last piece of chicken.

"Don't like being called daddy?"

"It's a little strange, since I'm actually a father."

"It's a different sort of daddy though.  Some of the people here seem to really like it.  The other workers tell me about it sometimes.  I think some of them have daddy issues though."

Enji supposed that made sense.  He could definitely imagine Patrons here liking pretty boys calling them daddy.  "Do you have daddy issues?"

Hawks hummed.  "Yeah.  But not the sexy kind.  Just the 'he was an asshole and I want nothing to do with him' kind."

"I suppose we have that in common."

Setting the plate aside, Hawks lifted his glass, resettling against Enji, side tucked in against his chest, humming as those strong arms held him there.

"You've got son issues too."

Enji had to quash his knee-jerk reaction to snap at Hawks.  It was the reaction he'd have with anyone that mentioned it.  It was a… sore subject to put it mildly.  But he took a deep breath and sighed it out slowly.

"I have.. family issues in general."

He slipped his drink, one cheek resting against Enji's shoulder.  "Family issues suck.  I'm sorry you have them.  Wanna talk about it?"  The question was genuine, Hawks' eyes turned up to watch Enji.

Normally his answer would be an immediate no.  But there was just something about Hawks that was disarming.  Comfortable.  He trusted him without knowing why.

He hesitated, then began to talk.

~*~

He wasn't sure how long he spoke for.  Hawks listened, staying quiet until Enji would pause and he'd gently prompt him with a question or comment or, once when Enji's throat had felt tight and his eyes burned, he'd offered him his glass of whiskey, for his dry throat, he'd said.

Enji wasn't used to the care, the easy way Hawks navigated the minefield that was his pride.  By the time Enji felt as though he'd told him everything, he felt drained.  Hollowed out.  But somehow lighter.

He heaved a sigh, chin resting against his chest, eyes closed.  He felt poking and groaned, poking back once at Hawks' hip.

"What?"

"Lay down, Enji.  Come on."

He didn't bother to open his eyes, following the guiding hands to settle on his back on the sofa, his head resting on one arm.  It might not be as comfortable as a bed, but it was comfortable enough.  Even more so when Hawks resettled on top of him, stretched out, head on his shoulder.

Enji curled both arms around him, hands running over his back, his sides, just taking a moment to enjoy the simple contact, the presence of another person pressed so close, the comfort of not being alone.

~*~

He woke some indeterminate time later, finding Hawks looking down at him with bleary eyes, shaking him gently.

"C'mon, big guy.  S'last call.  You're gonna have to go home.  You should get some sleep.  You probably have to work tomorrow."

Enji blinked slowly, then forced himself to sit up.  "I do."  Not that he wanted to.  Right now, just curling up with Hawks sounded perfect.  He was still tired, his mouth moving before his brain.

"Come home with me."

Hawks stared at him, eyes wide.

"What?  Enji, you don't mean that."

If there was one thing Enji Todoroki didn't like, it was someone trying to tell him what he did or didn't want.  It made him all the more stubborn.

"I do."  He swung his feet off the sofa, eyes fixed on Hawks.  "Come home with me.  You don't have to.  And- it'll be as a friend.  Not as a worker.  If you're not comfortable with that, that's okay.  But I mean the offer."

Hawks continued to stare, as if waiting for Enji to laugh at him, tell him that, yes, he'd been joking.

"But-  I'm just a-"

"You're not just an anything."

He bit his lip.  It was a terrible idea.  He and Enji were in two different worlds.  And while it was a world Hawks wanted to break into…  but Enji had been so open with him.  Soft and warm when he claimed he was never like that with people.

And he'd have never gotten anywhere in his life without taking chances.

He was still hesitant, but slowly reached a hand out, an offer.

Enji watched Hawks think it over, could almost hear the wheels turning in his head.  And when he finally reached a hand out, unsure, like Enji would change his mind, he smiled, reaching for Hawks' hand in turn.  He caught it, drawing it in to brush a kiss over his knuckles.

"Is that a yes?"

Hawks' cheeks turned pink.  "I can meet you outside.  The club closes at two and I'm free to do what I want after that."

"I'll wait for you."

He ducked his head, but looked pleased, pushing gently at Enji.  "Go outside before they come kick you out."

"Don't be too long, pretty bird."  He stood, stretching, and left the booth, collecting his coat at the door from the boy there, looking much more tired than Enji ever remembered seeing.  He could relate.

It was another cold night, dark and quiet.  The lot was nearly empty and he made his way to his car to unlock the doors and slip in, starting the engine to let the interior heat, watching for Hawks’ figure to appear.

Just when he'd begun to worry that he might have changed his mind, he saw a slight figure slip around the corner of the building, dressed in what appeared to be an oversized coat and carrying a bag.  He opened the door to step out, catching the figure's eye, watching as they hurried over, opened the passenger door and slid in.

Enji climbed back in as well, quickly shutting out the cold.  Hawks was already holding his hands to one vent, warming them.

"Ugh, I hate the cold."

"I'll be sure to give you an extra blanket." 

The drive to Enji's home was relatively quiet, both of them still tired and soaking up the heat, Hawks asking the occasional question.  When they arrived, Enji parked in the attached garage, getting out first to open Hawks' door for him.

"You still awake?"

"Mmm, for the next five minutes, anyway ."

Enji chuckled, holding a hand out to help Hawks from the car, closing the door once he was clear.

"Such a gentleman."  It was barely a mumble, Hawks leaning against the larger man, content to let him guide them into the house.  It was dark and quiet, no one else seeming to be home and it felt like they reached the bedroom between one blink and the next, Enji clicking on a bedside lamp to gently illuminate the room.

And reveal a huge bed.  Hawks dropped his bag and immediately face-planted on it.

Enji rolled his eyes at him, working on shedding his clothing, laying it aside for later dry cleaning.

"Up.  You're not sleeping in your clothes.  You'll be uncomfortable later.  Get changed."

"What if I sleep naked?"  His words were muffled by the bed but mostly intelligible.

"What if I sleep naked?"

One golden eye appeared.  "Do you?"

"No." 

He lifted his head enough to make it clear that he was pouting, but slowly dragged himself off of the bed, grabbing his bag to dig through.  They might have snuck a peek or two at each other while changing, but we're tired enough not to comment.

Enji crawled into bed first, wearing boxer briefs and a loose tank top, stretching out under the blankets, sighing as he settled.  Hawks was a moment behind, wearing loose shorts and an oversized tshirt, slipping in on the other side.  He inched closer until he could reach out and touch Enji, as if unsure if he was allowed.

Shifting onto his side, Enji lifted an arm, an invitation.  "Hawks.  You can come here."

"Keigo."  He scooted closer.

"Hmm?"

"My name is Keigo.  If I'm here as a friend… you should know my name."  He settled himself against Enji's larger frame, draping an arm over his side.

Enji settled a knuckle under Haw- Keigo's chin, gently tipping his head up to meet his gaze.  He leaned in, pressing a soft kiss to his lips.

"Keigo."

His eyes fluttered closed, feeling like something precious under that gentle touch.  And hearing Enji say his name… it helped chase away the last of the night's chill.

He was drawn closer, tucked against Enji's chest, head under the larger man's chin.  It was perfection and he heaved a sigh, relaxing.

"Enji?"

"Mm?"

"Sorry to break it to you, but I'm gonna have to marry this bed."

Enji snorted out a drowsy chuckle.  "Not if I marry it first.  I've known it longer."

"Homewrecker."

Keigo wouldn't remember the laugh in the morning, but the warmth lingered.

~*~

For the next week, Enji found himself at the club more than he ever had before, carefully pestering Kurogiri to spend time with Keigo.  Since learning his name, it was difficult to call him anything else, even at the club.

Kurogiri complained each time, despite Enji slipping him large tips to 'make up' for the bother.  Keigo seemed worried that Kurogiri would turn him down one night and offered to spend more time outside of the club with him, ducking his head a little.

While Enji was happy to spend money on Keigo, he liked the idea of more of it actually going to him.  He knew workers at the club only got a percentage, but was unclear if Keigo got even that much, considering the color collar they kept putting on him.  So of course, Keigo turned down most of his offers to buy him things.

"Enji," he'd said, looking up at him earnestly.  "I appreciate you wanting to take care of me.  I do.  But we're here as friends.  And where would I put a new wardrobe?  My room is small.  And if I come waltzing in with nice things, I'll never hear the end of it from the other guys.  And things might go missing.  I'm not calling them thieves, but there's always one or two people that get jealous.  Your company is plenty for me."

And really, how could he argue with that?  And if he surreptitiously picked up a thing or two to keep at his house?  Keigo could just yell at him later.  And it'd be too late then.

Another perk of meeting up outside of the club; Keigo stayed over more.  Enji found that he liked him in his space, in his kitchen.  Keigo wasn't the best cook, but he tried and learned quickly.  It was nice to cook alongside him.

They worked well together too, handing off tasks to each other.  Enji might chop vegetables while Keigo cut meat, adding their ingredients to the pan as they worked.  Or one grabbing plates while the other got glasses.  Even in a short time, it felt as though Keigo had been there at his side for years.  And he found himself preferring his company outside of the club rather than inside.

They still got off together in the club occasionally, but just as often, they sat or lay together, talking about random subjects, or about law, Enji acting as impromptu tutor or explaining a convoluted bit of legalese to an attentive Keigo.

It was comfortable.

Keigo had even given Enji his cell number.  And Enji had never gotten so many texts.  He'd have thought it would be irritating, but Keigo was funny.  His random observations, his cheesy pickup lines, snarky comments about people.  Just hearing his phone buzz gave him something to look forward to.  Or made him smile when he turned his phone back on after court, a string of texts waiting for him.

Burnin' was still suspicious, eyeballing him when he'd slip his phone out, noticed the little smiles that tried to hide.  He did his best to distract her, but he knew she was smart and would eventually confront him.  He only employed the best.

She asked sooner than he expected.

"Boss.  I know it's not my business, but if you have a girlfriend, you might wanna hide it better.  I wouldn't say anything, but there are people that know you that might try to cause you problems."

Enji blinked up at her from his desk, pen poised over a form.  His phone was resting next to his paperwork and buzzed damningly.  They both glanced at it and back to each other.

Enji cleared his throat.  "I don't have a girlfriend."

Burnin' looked skeptical.

"I don't."  Did he have a boyfriend?  They'd never talked about anything like that.  They hadn't had sex, actually.  Or gotten off together outside of the club.  Which reared a whole wall of other questions, once it was brought to his attention.  Fuck.

"I appreciate your concern, Burnin'.  But I don't have a girlfriend.  I do have a friend."

Burnin' showed no surprise at the admission, her mind still clearly made up.  She also looked like she was ready to get yelled at.  Enji realized that maybe, before Keigo, he'd been a bit on the hard ass side.  A bit.   And since Keigo…

Burnin' probably expected to be told, harshly, that it was none of her concern and she could take her ass right out of his office.

"I'll try to be more mindful of where I am when I answer."

That did earn some surprise.  She didn't reply right away, clearly weighing her words.

"I've noticed that your.. friend seems to make you happy.  And I'm glad.  Everyone deserves happiness, sir."  She hesitated again.  "I just don't want to see you caught up in something if someone tries to be… shady."

Burnin' didn't want someone to try to attach his name to a scandal or attempt to blackmail him.  Enji knew he employed competent people, but he should have realized sooner that they also cared .  He offered a smile, which earned more surprise and perhaps bewilderment.

"Thank you, Burnin'.  I've been considering my.. options.  And I think I've come to a decision that will solve any concerns regarding that possibility."

Burnin' didn't press for more, seemed satisfied that Enji was taking her seriously and ready for any eventualities.

"I'm glad to hear it, sir.  I'll leave you to your work."  She excused herself and left him in peace, quietly latching his door.

Enji stared at the place where she had been, then sighed, turning to his computer to begin typing, calling up forms.

It was time to set Rei free.

~*~

He thought about having the paperwork delivered.  Rei stayed in the villa more than she was at the family house.  He supposed the correct term for them was 'estranged'.  They dealt with each other when necessary and kept their distance otherwise.  They were cordial, for the most part, but he didn't think their marriage had even had much love in it.

Keigo had asked him why they married at all, when they were talking about family.  He'd replied honestly.  It had been a good match.  She came from a wealthy, well respected family.  His career was doing well, but if anything ever happened, they'd still be comfortable, relying on her resources.

Keigo had been quiet for a time.  He couldn't exactly argue that angle.  But he'd pointed out that it sounded like a lonely life, having a partner that was in name only.  Someone you actively avoided but were tied to.  Enji couldn't argue that either.

He owed her speaking face to face at least.  To explain what he wanted and what he was offering, rather than letting her think that he was simply attempting to discard her.

Pulling up outside the villa, he parked, grabbing his briefcase.  He was dressed casually, dark jeans and a cream colored turtleneck.  Keigo had told him that he looked good.  'Handsome as fuck' actually.  It had made him smile, as Keigo often did.  Then he'd wished him a good day doing ‘family things’.  He hadn’t told him exactly what he’d be doing.

He'd rather be spending time with Keigo, but he needed to face his wife.

Gripping his briefcase tighter than necessary, he knocked, sucking in a slow breath.

It took a minute or two, but finally the door opened, Rei standing on the other side.  She looked good, more color in her cheeks than when she's been living in the house.  Her white hair looked glossy.  Healthy.  He had to admit that they were better apart.

Her eyes went wide, a touch of fear just visible before she tried to hide it.  Not fear of Enji.  He'd never been physically abusive.  But his presence would threaten the small amount of freedom she had here.

"Oh, Enji.  I- wasn't expecting you."

He saw her gaze dart inside and back to him again.  Worried?  Apprehensive?  He could take a guess.

"Good afternoon, Rei.  I apologize for stopping by unexpectedly."  As if this house wasn't also his.  "I think we have a few things to discuss.  And if you have company.. I'm not here to interrupt anything."

Her eyes narrowed.  But she still looked unsure.  Rei was a smart woman.  Enji knew that she was likely weighing her options.  Finally, she stepped aside.  It was as much an invitation as he'd expected.

She disappeared farther into the house as he made his way to the kitchen table, pulling out the forms he'd already filled out, occupying himself by setting everything out neatly.  He didn't hear anyone else moving around, but suspected if he looked hard enough, he'd find someone.  He didn't.  He couldn't begrudge Rei her company when he'd had his own for likely far longer.

When Rei returned, she eyed him and his papers, slowly settling into a chair opposite him.

Enji interlaced his fingers, hands resting on the tabletop.

"Rei.  I don't need to tell you that our marriage hasn't exactly been… functional."

She turned her gaze down to the table.  "So you've finally decided to get rid of me."

He deserved her poor opinion of him, but it still stung.

"I've come to offer you a divorce."

She didn't look up.  "Offer."  Her voice was flat.

" Offer ."  He stressed the word.  "You deserve to be able to live your own life and find happiness."  She did look up at that, eyebrows raised.

"Like… you have?"

It was clearly a guess, but a very good one.  He cleared his throat, pushing the first paper towards her.

"The kids are all old enough that we don't have to worry about custody.  They're free to use any house controlled by the Todoroki estate.  The villa will be signed over to you.  And, if agreed to, you'll have a monthly payment to supplement your income."

Rei's expression went from resigned to bewildered, eyes scanning over the papers.  She wasn't a lawyer herself, but she was more than familiar with what a contract looked like.

"You're… paying me off?"

"I was hoping it would be enough to make amends."

"Amends?"

"I was- well, a shit husband.  Not the greatest father either.  I don't know if I can make up for that.  But maybe this will help some."

"This is.. a big change.  And a very generous offer."  Rei set the form aside, cocking her head.  "The woman you met must be very special."

Enji finally broke his gaze away, praying that she couldn't see the flush he could feel on his cheeks.

"I- guess that's true."

Rei smiled faintly.  She didn't feel any jealousy.  She and Enji had barely been close.  Their marriage was closer to a political relationship.  Even conceiving their children had been perfunctory.  The early years of their marriage had been hard, until she'd realized that, as long as she appeared to be a good wife in public, she could do as she pleased with her spare time.

It was quickly apparent that Enji found his amusement elsewhere.  She hadn't felt bad, seeking out companionship.  This new side to him was a surprising difference.

"We may not be destined for a happy marriage together, but… I like the idea of still doing things as a family, occasionally.  And- if you both agree, I'd like to meet her."

Enji rubbed the back of his head.  He'd expected his wife to accept the offer, it was more than generous, and then want nothing else to do with him.  He didn't expect her to want to be friends .  He supposed she was going to find out eventually.

"...he."  He mumbled the words, barely audible.

She almost asked him to repeat himself.  But then the word registered.  Her eyebrows lifted almost to her hairline and her mouth opened.  Then she laughed.

Enjist temper flared for a split second.  Before he realized the sound was… joyful .

"Enji!  You should have told me!  When we were first married, I thought maybe it was me.  I didn't realize- you prefer men?"  A reluctant nod was more than enough of an answer.  "I guess your sons don't get it from anywhere strange then."  She smiled, teasing him gently.

He blinked at her.  "Not all of our sons are gay."

"Gay, straight, as long as they're happy.  They just take after you a little more than I realized."

He groaned, then grumbled.  "I think I liked you more before you were teasing me."

"Joking and sarcasm that isn't angry?  Oh, I definitely need to meet him!"

Enji rubbed at a temple.  The worst part was, he could see Rei and Keigo being excellent friends.  Sharing about their days, shopping together.  Talking about him.  

He was so screwed.

~*~

It took another two weeks before the shit hit the fan at the club.  Which was honestly longer than he'd expected.

He got a text from Keigo at the office, one that he ignored, since he'd taken Burnin's suggestions to heart and was trying to check his phone less.  However, the buzz was immediately followed by three more and he knew that Keigo tried to text him sparingly when he was at work.

Glancing around and seeing no one, he scooped up his phone.

Keigo: Don't come to the club tonight

Keigo: I can catch a car to your place after

Keigo: Shigaraki is looking for you

Keigo: And I like you and your dick too much for you to be turned into fish food :/

Enji rolled his eyes, sighing to himself.

Enji: You haven't even had my dick yet.  And I'm not going to turn into fish food.

Keigo: I know.  That needs to happen. >:O

Keigo: The dick not the fish food

Keigo: But stay home

Keigo: I don't wanna worry about you

Enji: If Shigaraki is looking for me, he'll still be looking for me tomorrow.  Especially if I don't show up tonight.

Keigo: Damn you and your logic.  Stay home

Enji didn't reply.  Because he wouldn't run away from some shadowy figure looking for him.  He dealt with unsavory people everyday.  Wasn't a stranger to questionably moralistic deals.  He could deal with a crime lord.  Negotiation was his strong suit.

He didn't rush through his work, tried not to think too deeply about the encounter he was bound to have later.  There was no use in dwelling on it.

He arrived a touch later than his usual time, but not by much.  Not enough to look like he was avoiding LoV.  The boy at the door didn't act any differently, taking his coat and smiling at him.

He headed for the bar.  No use in putting it off.

Kurogiri was there, as he always seemed to be, though when he saw Enji, he put his glass away, shooing away the boy at the counter before speaking.

"Mr. Todoroki.  I'm afraid you have a meeting this evening before I can serve you."

"I heard something about that."

"I'm sure you did."  Kurogiri's voice was dry.  "If you'd come with me, please."  

Damn Kurogiri's mask, giving nothing away.

He followed the tall barkeeper, around to one side to a door that blended into the wall so well, Enji had never noticed it before.  Once inside, the music of the club, while not nearly as loud as the front of the house, was blocked out completely.

The hallway before them was plain, but well built, only a couple doors opening off to the sides as they walked.  The door at the end of the hall appeared to be their goal, a heavy looking wooden affair with gold accents.

Kurogiri knocked twice, then opened the door, gesturing Enji through.

He stepped inside, taking in the room, unsurprised when the door closed behind him.  It looked like an office.  Not that different from his own, save for the quality and his own was nothing to scoff at.  It was all dark wood, plush carpet and metallic accents.  Luxurious without being ostentatious.

A large desk sat across from the door, commanding the room's attention, the tall chair turned away, only the back visible.

This must be Shigaraki then.

"So.  I've heard you've been causing problems here.  Kurogiri tried to cover for you.  A little bit.  But you couldn't switch his loyalty no matter how much you paid him.  And I know that's what you were doing.  That's your MO."

Enji didn't know Shigaraki.  Had an idea of what he looked like only because of Keigo's description.  But that voice… it was rougher.  But familiar.

"Touya?"

The chair swiveled around, revealing his son.  Older than he'd last seen him.  He had some scars, a large patch over one cheek, tattoos and piercings that certainly wouldn't have been allowed when he was working for his father's agency.  Before he'd left, made it clear that he wanted nothing to do with Enji ever again.

He grit his teeth, staring Enji down.

"I don't wanna hear that name come out of your mouth again.  It's Dabi."

Enji knew he was associated with Shigaraki.  It was Dabi that had brought Keigo to the club.  Still, he hadn't expected to actually encounter him.

No matter what path Tou- Dabi had chosen, it was his choice.  And Enji owed him his own life, no matter how he wanted to live it.

"Dabi.  It wasn't my intention to cause problems."

Dabi regarded Enji for a moment longer, then leaned the chair back, kicking his feet up onto the desk, arms crossing over his chest.  He appeared to be wearing a worn leather vest, tight black pants.  His white hair, so like Rei's, had been dyed black.

Enji had to admit that Keigo was right.  He was handsome, in his own way.  He thought the right word might be 'alternative'.

"Maybe not.  But you know how things work around here.  Hawks was in a yellow collar.  You could have used him and gone on your way.  Hell, you could have used him every night.  Twice a night."  Dabi's nose wrinkled, clearly not liking the thought of his father having sex of any kind.

"But, no.  You had to be greedy.  Had to have him all to yourself.  Do you know how many complaints we've gotten?  Yeah, he's pretty.  But he wouldn't be half as popular if you hadn't kept him from everyone else."

Enji cocked his head.  "Wouldn't increasing his value help LoV by making more money?"

Dabi sneered at him.  "For anyone else other than Hawks, sure.  But Shigaraki has a hard on for making his life difficult."

"His life, or your life?"

"My life isn't any of your business."

"I know that.  But Keigo told me why he was wearing a yellow collar."

" Keigo. "  Dabi drawled the name.  "Do you actually think you like him?  He's a rent boy."

"You know he's more than that.  If you've spoken to him for more than five minutes at a time you know how smart he is."

Dabi scoffed, rolling his eyes.  "As if you can keep him from talking.  I had to hear all about you when I brought him back here."

"Me? Why?"

"I made the mistake of asking him what he was reading.  Which led to him telling me his entire life story and his plans."

Enji actually smiled a little.  "He realized you knew what he was talking about, didn't he?"

"He's far too observant." 

"I've noticed.  He knew you were my son.  Or strongly suspected it."

Dabi's eyes turned into slits.  "How?"

"You might not want anything to do with me.  But you have my eyes."

Dabi sighed deeply, his shoulders slumping.  He uncrossed his arms to run a hand over his face.

"Of course he noticed.  The little shit.  You need to just take him out of here and get him out of my hair."

"I'd be happy to.  However, he has a contract that he needs to pay back before he can leave free and clear.  And he can't exactly make enough to do that in his current position." Enji moved towards the desk, keeping his movements slow, not wanting Dabi back on edge.  He took the opposite chair, sitting down with a sigh.

"I fucking know.  Keeping him here, he can torture both of us at the same time."  He leaned his head back against the chair, the picture of exasperation.

"But you're not actually interested in Keigo?"

"Of course not.  I can appreciate that he's pretty.  But twinks aren't really my type."

"I'm afraid I don't know what Shigaraki looks like."

"Smartass.  You'll meet him soon enough."

Enji hummed, sitting back in his smaller chair.  "Help me help you.  What will it take for Shigaraki to release Keigo?"

"The only thing he'll accept is the contract paid off.  But that's not the only problem.  He's living here because he doesn't have a place to stay.  He can work here with or without a contract.  And if he has no place and no income, logic dictates that he'd stay here to try to save up.  And remain a pain in my ass."

"I was- considering offering him a room."

Dabi slowly lifted an eyebrow, staring at Enji.  "You want a live-in fuck boy?  Not very husbandly of you."  He said it in his nastiest tone of voice, dripping with contempt.

"I'll be asking him as one man to another.  I want to help him study.  He's going to be an amazing attorney.  Also… your mother and I are getting divorced."

Dabi's lip curled.  "Decided to replace her finally?  Kick her onto the street?  Going for a younger-"

Enji held his hand up, frowning.  "No, of course not.  Keigo won't owe me anything.  And I've offered Rei the villa.  As well as a monthly payment to bolster her income."

He received a slow blink as a reply, Dabi's mouth slowly closing, his tirade fizzling out before really getting started .

"Dabi.  I know I'm not a good man.  And I deserve your contempt.  But that doesn't mean I can't be a better one."

"...and Shoto?"  Dabi's posture was tight, while he continued to try looking aloof.

Enji sighed deeply.  "I know Shoto doesn't want to go into law.  I shouldn't force him to follow that path."  He made a face.  "He wants to open a bakery.  And he has a boyfriend. And another friend that's constantly with them. The boyfriend is blonde and mouthy.  You'd probably like him.  The green haired one is painfully polite."

A laugh was surprised out of Dabi.  "A bakery?  Oh fuck, that must sting.  And he's probably poly, the greedy bitch."

Enji was going to have to Google poly.  Far away from Dabi.  Or Keigo.  He'd never hear the end of it. "I know it took me too long to learn, but I'll be happy if he's happy.  I want happiness for you as well.  And Natsuo, Fuyumi.  Rei.  She even wants to do things as a family, occasionally."

Dabi stared.  And stared some more.  "Who the fuck even are you?  Don't make me believe that the fucking chicken is actually good for you."

Enji's smile was wry.  "He's a good influence, I guess.  But more than that, he's good .  He knows how the world really works and wants to improve it anyway.  He'd be someone I'd be happy to have at my agency.  If that's something he wants."

"I'm pretty sure you'd have to beat him off with a stick if he knew that offer was on the table."

"Then tell me what I need to do in order to make that offer."

"I told you.  As soon as the contract is paid off, Shigaraki will leave him alone.  If he decides to leave.  If he stays, he'll keep fucking with him, just because I said, one time , that he had a pretty face."

"Jealous type?"

"You have no idea."  Dabi said it fondly, rather than with irritation.  Enji didn't exactly approve of his son being involved with crime, or a crime boss especially, but he's lost the right to have a say in his son's life.  Maybe, one day…

"So how much?"

"Fifty large."

Enji sighed.  "Done."

Dabi shook his head.  "You're gonna shell out all this money for him and he won't be a live-in fuck?"

"No.  I told you, he won't owe me anything.  I'm considering this an investment in his future.  If he wants to pay me back, he can intern at the agency."

"How do you know he'll take the room you offer?"

"He's been staying more nights at the house than he has here." 

Dabi pinched the bridge of his nose, a gesture he unknowingly adopted from his father.  "I'm gonna have Kurogiri's hide.  Keigo had better accept your offer.  I don't want to see the two of you here, acting all gross."

Enji smiled, though his reply was cut off by the door opening, matching sets of eyes sliding to it.

Shigaraki was… average.  Average build, average height.  His clothes were a simple tshirt and jeans, rumpled as if he'd just rolled out of bed.  His hair was whiter than Rei's, falling a bit past his shoulders, appearing clean, but like it could use to see a brush.

He appeared to have faint scars around his eyes and mouth.  It made him look older than he probably was, which Enji assumed was close to Dabi's own age.  He guessed it was the reason Keigo called him 'Crusty'.  Given his appearance, he wondered if his son had been in charge of decorating.

Shigaraki closed the door behind him and sighed.  "Why are your feet on my desk, again ?"  His voice was soft, raspy.  Not at all what one would expect from the head of The League.

Dabi sighed and swung his feet down, sitting up to stand from the chair, moving instead to lean against the wall behind the desk, crossing his arms once more, the picture of nonchalant.

Shigaraki moved over to take his place, half slumping as he flopped down, watching Enji, hands splayed lazily over the top of his desk.  He wore gloves, of a sort.  Supple black leather ran from his wrists, cutting over the backs of his hands but only covering his thumb and pointer fingers.  Enji imagined a gun in those hands and it painted a picture and didn't want firsthand experience with.

"I'm guessing Dabi told you why you're here."

"He has."

"That will save some time then.  What would save more time, is you agreeing to stop attempting to monopolize Hawks' time and allow him to do his job."

"I would love to save us both some time.  And to that end, I'd like to pay Hawks' contract."

Shigaraki turned his head to shoot a look at Dabi.  His reply was a shrug.

Looking back, he steepled his fingers together, the black leather making his skin look even paler.  "You know how much that would cost you?"

"I do."

"And you think a boy of his… quality is worth that amount?"  He said 'quality' like it was an insult.

Enji chose to think of it as the compliment it should have been.  "I do."

"And do you also know that I can deny your offer?"

"As the contract holder, I'm sure that you can.  But I don't know why you would."  Enji did his best to keep his voice even.  He had a feeling that Shigaraki was the type to push harder, play with his prey once he smelled blood in the water.

"Releasing Hawks from his contract would make him happy.  Now why would I want to do that?"  He sat back farther in the chair, swiveling slightly from one side to the other.

"As a savvy businessman, I'd have thought you'd prefer to collect on your investment sooner rather than later."

"That's if you're assuming my expected return is money."

Dabi spoke for the first time since Shigaraki had entered.  "Which it is."

The look Shigaraki shot Dabi this time was more of a glare.  Dabi lifted a hand to gesture at Enji.

"If he wants to drop that much money, why not take it?  We can be rid of Hawks and the complaints.  Two birds, one stone."

"And here I'd have thought you'd want him to stick around."  His voice was sweet.  And had knives underneath.

Dabi kept his relaxed pose, lifting one shoulder in a half shrug, careless.  Enji felt a small swell of pride at his composure.  "My only interest in him is how much money he can make us.  And right now, he could make us a good amount in a short time.  And, if he leaves, it'll be one more room to rent out."

Shigaraki frowned, clearly displeased with not getting the reaction he wanted.  He turned his attention back to Enji.  "And is my little employee aware that you're making this offer?"

If Shigaraki was anything like his son, or Keigo for that matter, he'd easily detect a lie and be willing to work with him even less.  He shook his head.

"No, he doesn't.  I knew he had a contract with you that needed to be repaid, but not how much it was for.  Not until this evening."

"Mmm.  Perhaps we ought to ask his opinion?"

Before Enji could reply, Shigaraki had his phone out, connecting to someone.  "Show Hawks in, would you? ….  Then collect him from the floor.  …..  So let him get changed.  But he has five minutes.  Five .  That's it."

He stabbed the end call button with a sigh.  "Good help, and all that."

Enji hummed noncommittally, sitting back to wait.  He hoped Keigo could keep from making Shigaraki too angry.  If they could just agree to end the contract and leave…

It actually was five minutes later that there was a knock on the door and Keigo's head popped in, followed by the rest of him.  He didn't have a shirt and still wore the yellow collar, but he had on what appeared to be sleep pants, black with little flames all over them.

Shigaraki spoke first.

"Chicken legs."

Keigo's eyes swept around the room, taking in everyone there, mind clearly stringing together possibilities.  But at Shigaraki's words, he puffed his cheeks out, eyes narrowing.

"Hey, Crusty.  What's up?"

Shigaraki's expression didn't change from the mild smile he'd put on to wait, but a vein started throbbing at his temple.

Dabi shot his eyes to Enji, long suffering, as if to say 'You see what I've been dealing with?'.  Enji didn't agree with putting Keigo on the floor every night, or offering him a contract and then effectively taking away his ability to repay it; but he could see now why it had happened.  The two got along like oil and water.

"'What's up' is, it's been brought to my attention that Mr. Todoroki has been making your job more difficult.  I invited him here to talk about it."  As if Keigo didn't know exactly why Enji was here.

Keigo returned Shigaraki's smile with one of his own, a pleasantness that didn't reach his eyes.  "I wouldn't say that.  He's been offering the club a lot more money than I'd usually bring in.  Why would I refuse an offer that I knew would be to your benefit?"

Keigo didn't look at him, focusing on Shigaraki as if Enji was just some Patron that he was doing a favor for.  And while Enji knew that wasn't the case, that they were more to each other, had shared too much to be otherwise, the tiny, nagging what if that he knew was a lie, still stung.  He kept his own features neutral, watching the two of them.

Dabi rolled his eyes to himself.  For as good an attorney as Enji was, he was lucky that he wasn't trying cases against people that actually knew him well.  He was such a bad actor.  He liked to pretend that he didn't have emotions, covered with anger and ruthless efficiency.  Dabi had hated the hypocrisy of it, when he'd been at his agency.  His advice to keep emotion from the courtroom when he couldn't himself, his backroom deals while preaching the virtues of law and club that kept him from his wife and family, save for when he wanted to demand they follow the path he'd decided was best.

It had soured him quickly from following in his father's footsteps.  That and his harsh words and unreasonable expectations.  Yet here he sat, pretending that Keigo's act didn't hurt his feelings.

Shigaraki's smile had shifted into a frown.  "And I'm sure it had nothing to do with our contract."

Keigo's smile didn't slip.  "Of course it did.  Making more money for the club and saving to pay you?  It's a win-win."

"Even though it took you from the position you were supposed to be filling."

"There's more than just me out there."  He shrugged.  "I didn't think it would be a problem."

Shigaraki snorted.  "You absolutely knew it would be a problem.  You are a problem."

"Then it makes even more sense that I pay you and get out of your hair, right?"

Shigaraki sneered, unable to technically argue that.  "Mr. Todoroki has offered to pay your contract."

Keigo turned his head to look at Enji for the first time, face neutral but eyes shining.  It was all the encouragement Enji needed.  He nodded once.

Keigo refocused on Shigaraki.  "And you said?"

"I told him that it was within my rights to refuse and demand the payment come from you."  Shigaraki smiled again, nastily.

Cocking a hip, Keigo smirked, crossing his arms.  "And what's stopping Enji from just giving me the money to give to you?"

Shigaraki's bared his teeth and Dabi pressed his palm to his face.

"Just take the money and get them both out of here.  Then we won't have to deal with them again."

Keigo gave up on his aloofness, hips swaying as he moved to Enji's side.  "You know," he said conversationally, threading one of his arms through Enji's.  "When I marry your father, you'll be my stepson."

Dabi's face twisted, his eyes narrowing into slits.  "I take it back.  You're staying here.  On the floor every night.  Tied to a table.  No lube."

Keigo pouted.

Shigaraki was grinning however.  "I'll have the paperwork tomorrow."

Dabi rounded on him.  "What?!  What happened to not doing anything to make him happy?"

"But it's too good of an opportunity to miss, watching him try to mother you.  I bet he'll call to ask if you're eating enough."

"Are you?"  Keigo managed to look earnest.

Shigaraki cackled while Dabi seethed.

"You!"  He pointed at Keigo.  "Stay out of my fucking business.  And you!". His attention swung to Shigaraki.  "Can enjoy family dinners where you can watch Keigo and Enji being gross like an old married couple while behaving in front of my mother ."

Shigaraki's expression melted, turning appalled.  He protested, loudly, while Enji pinched the bridge of his nose.

Hawks wiped at a fake tear.  "It's so nice, having the family around."

~*~

Keigo didn't have much to pack.  His backpack and another bag fit everything.  There was no one at the club he was close enough to to stick around and say goodbye to.  Let them think whatever they wanted.

He kept close to Enji; leaving the club, in the car, when they finally got home, trying to always be touching some part of him, as if he'd be taken away.

Enji had begun to spin his offer, a room, study, but Keigo had accepted before he could finish.  He didn't care what the offer was, as long as he could stay.  He'd figure the rest out later.

Keigo had told him so and Enji had grumbled.  Hadn't he learned not to make deals without checking the fine print yet?  But Keigo knew this wasn't a deal.  Not in the sense that the contract with Shigaraki had been.

It wasn't as late as it normally was, when they'd get home together after the club closed, but Keigo steered them to the bedroom anyway, taking Enji's hand to make sure he followed.  Their bedroom.  Keigo wasn't accepting some other room.  Unless it was to use as a study.  

No, this bed was his now.

As was the man in it.

Enji sat on the bed's edge, running a hand through his hair, looking tired.  He was tired as well, felt like he could sleep for a week.  Facing down Shigaraki had been nerve wracking.  But.

Dropping both of his bags, Keigo moved over to Enji, nudging him back gently, enough to climb into his lap, settling there, arms winding around the older man's neck.

Enji grunted faintly, but settled, arms around Keigo's waist.

"I told you to stay home."

"I've never been very good at doing what I'm told."

Keigo snorted.  "Yeah, I've noticed.  You fought Shigaraki for me."

"I don't know if fought is the right word."

" Fought .  Battled.  You paid off my contract."

"Which you don't owe me for.  I'll be taking it out of you at the office while you work and study. I'm not expecting-"

Keigo rolled his eyes, cutting him off.  "I know.  I'm not a damsel in distress.  I know you don't plan to treat me like an object.  But I can still be grateful."  He pressed a kiss to Enji's lips.  "So thank you."

Enji relented, kissing back, his fingers moving lazily over Keigo's hips, a couple finding their way under the material to touch skin, earning a pleased hum.

"Can we have sex now?  Please?  I think I've waited long enough."  Enji opened his mouth and Keigo spoke again before he could.  "I know I don't owe you sex.  I want you.  I've wanted you forever."

"You want to tonight?  Even though you had to work?"

"I didn't have to work very long.  Does it bother you?  That I worked tonight?"

"No, pretty bird.  I'm more concerned that you might be sore."

Keigo kissed him again, running both hands up to push his fingers into Enji's hair, letting his fingernails drag gently over Enji's scalp.  "I'm okay.  I promise.  Besides, I want you to make me sore."

Enji snorted, leaning into his touch, giving a hip a light pinch.  "Still a brat."

"Yeah, I hope you don't expect that to change."  Keigo sat back, gripping Enji's thighs with his own, to tug his shirt off, dropping it to the floor.  "Lay back, Enji.  C'mon big guy."

Enji shook his head, kissing Kaigo's pout.  "Get up first.  Let's at least get out of our clothes and on the bed.  We don't need to rush."

Keigo darkly muttered something that sounded like a disagreement, but pulled himself from Enji's lap, shimmying out of his hastily thrown-on shirt and sleep pants.  The collar had been happily left on Shigaraki's desk.

Enji took the opportunity to shed his own clothing.  He had more to work with though. Slacks, shirt, tank top, boxer briefs, belt.  And he clearly wasn't moving fast enough for Keigo.  He reached for his shirt, working at the buttons while Enji opened his belt and pants, pushing them off, then scooting back and up the bed, Keigo crawling up smoothly to follow him.

He got his pants off, then his boxer briefs, shrugging out of his shirt once Keigo conquered the buttons.  His undershirt was quickly stripped off, Keigo's hands immediately on his skin, tracing the definition of his muscles.

"Bedside drawer, Keigo."

"Hmm?"  He was clearly distracted, staring at Enji's chest.

Enji rolled his eyes, though Keigo's appreciation was gratifying.  He cupped his cheeks to tip his head up, then kissed him.  "Focus, pretty bird."

"Hard to do, number one.  I've never gotten to see you naked before."

Enji stole another kiss, then leaned over to reach the drawer himself, pulling out the small bottle there and straightening, just in time for Keigo to wrap his hand around his cock, giving the half-hard length a slow, tight stroke.

It made his hips flex up, a hand quickly gripping at Keigo's hip to ground himself.  "Fuck-  warn me next time."

Keigo grinned impishly and did it again, fist sliding down, then up again.

Enji let his eyes slide closed, hardening in that grip.  "Mmm.. damn, you're good with your hands."

"I'm good with a lot of things."

"I know you are.  You just going to jerk me off tonight?  Cause if you want more.."  He shook the bottle by way of explanation.

Keigo sighed, as if letting go of Enji's dick was a personal loss.  He held his hand out for the bottle.

Enji shook his head, giving his thigh a pat, then slicked his fingers.  "Come here.  Let me."

Keigo's cheeks actually went pink, but he shuffled forward, straddling one of Enji's thighs, arms draping over his shoulders.  He pushed his hips back, an offer.

One Enji was happy to take.  He reached both hands down, one holding a hip to steady Keigo, the other continuing farther down, over the curve of his ass to slip a finger into him, slow and careful.  He was already fairly stretched, which Enji had expected, but he wanted him slick, didn't want him feeling any discomfort.

A second finger quickly followed and Keigo sucked in a breath, pushing back, trying to take more.  His hands kneaded at Enji's shoulders and he shifted against him a little.  Together, they found just the right angle and Keigo moaned.

"Ah- fuck, Enji.  It was so hard to stay quiet tonight.  One guy actually had just the right angle and I was thinking about you the whole time, trying not to say your name."

Enji bit at his shoulder, both hands busy.  "You trying to make me jealous?"

"Is it working?"

Rather than replying with the 'yes' they both knew was the correct answer, Enji added a third finger, pressing them deep, bumping them right up against Keigo's prostate.

He whined out a long sound.  "Fuck!  Enji- not fair.  Come on, I'm fine, I'm ready, I want you."

It was ridiculous, how hot Keigo could be, how hard he got him, and how quickly.  He slipped his fingers free, smoothing more gel over himself, pressing a kiss to the spot he'd bitten.

"Where do you want me?  Your choice."

"Lay back.  Stretch out.  I wanna ride you.  Wanted to ride you the first night, but sucking you was the next best thing."

Enji groaned, shifting to lay back, looking up at the younger man above him, big hands moving over his chest, down his sides, just touching skin.  "Bossy."

"You know all about that."  He grinned down, settling over Enji's hips, reaching back to hold him steady and lower himself down.

They both groaned as Kaigo sank down, stretching around Enji, feeling the slightest burn despite the preparation.  He knew he'd feel huge and wasn't disappointed, slowly pressing farther until he'd taken every inch.

He bit his lip, resting in place for a moment, adjusting while Enji gripped at his hips, gasping under him.  It was a good look on him.  Even better when Keigo rolled his hips, watched those blue eyes close, his mouth fall open.  He leaned forwards, bracing his hands on Enji's chest and moved .

There would be time later for slow and gentle and tender.  Right now, he needed to get off, to take Enji with him.  He bounced, lifting up and letting gravity take him back down, whining as he stuffed himself over and over, his head tipping back.  He found himself chanting Enji's name, fingers flexing against his chest.

"Fuck, fuck, Keigo!"  Enji arched, fingers tight on his hips.  His pause for adjustment had barely been long enough for him to catch his breath.  He groaned, heels digging into the mattress, caught and gave him leverage to snap his hips up, meeting Keigo's next drop.

Their combined cries were wordless and harsh.

They lost track of time, found that it didn't matter.  All that mattered was skin and sweat and heat and each other.  

When he was close, Keigo curled forward, panting like he'd run a mile, stretching up to let his forehead touch Enji's, felt a big hand curling around the back of his neck, holding him there.  He felt held and cherished and he came first, gasping against Enji's lips as he shuddered, feeling the larger man follow behind him, the warm heat filling him.

Enji groaned out his release, holding Keigo close as he all but went boneless with it, panting to catch his breath.  They were filthy and not falling asleep this way, but he was going to need a minute or two to let his brain come back online before attempting to move.

Keigo just sort of flopped over Enji's larger body, cheek on his chest, listening as his racing heart slowed. It was intimate, felt almost as intimate as the sex had been, coming down with Enji, feeling muscles relax and cool.  He was nearly asleep when he felt a poke at his side.

"Mmmn?"

"We need to get cleaned up, Kei."

The shortened name was new.  He didn't think he'd like it from anyone else, but any affection then Enji initiated was precious to him.  Even so, he grunted a protest.

"'n the mornin."

"You think you're sleeping in the bed you want to marry all sticky?"

Keigo snorted, fighting his eyes open to peek up at Enji.  "This bed is a slut.  It likes it."

Enji gave Keigo's ass a light smack, more sound that sting.  Keigo squawked anyway.

"How dare you impune the honor of my bed.  Brat.  Roll over at least.  I'll get a towel."

Keigo grumbled, the shifting causing Enji to finally slip from his body fully, followed by a mournful sound.  He flipped onto his back with feigned grumpiness.

Enji pressed a kiss to his lips before getting up.  Keigo supposed that was enough to tide him over until he came back.

~*~

Keigo woke up sometime early in the morning, the room still dark and quiet.  He wasn't sure what had woken him exactly, trying to get his bearings.  

He was on his belly, arms pillowed under his head.  In a sumptuously comfortable bed.  Enji's bed.  Their bed.  He felt his hips rock faintly and realized he was also achingly hard.  He groaned, fingers flexing against the sheets, curling in slowly.

Enji was inside of him again, he realized next.  He was barely moving, just a faint rock, a little grind now and then, barely enough to move his own hips.  He was still wet and stretched from before and Enji settled snugly, deep and hot inside of him felt amazing, muscles flexing around that hard length, making Enji moan quietly.  His own cock flexed where it was trapped against the bed, sending a hot wave of pleasure through him.

The thing that he felt next though, was what had woken him. (And just how slowly had Enji worked himself inside that he hadn't surfaced from his dreams?)  Enji's lips brushed over his shoulders, his shoulder blades.  Tracing his ink, his hazy brain realized, worshipping his wings.

Keigo groaned again, deeper, pressing back faintly.

"There you are."  Enji's voice was sleep rough, low in the night, warm against his skin.

"Enji.."  Keigo's voice was just as low, a whisper in the close darkness.

Enji didn't rush, barely sped up, just worked them slowly, letting their pleasure climb and simmer, inching up and up and up.

By the time they tipped over the edge, Enji had his fingers threaded through Keigo's as they clung to each other, trembling.

The sun was barely coloring the sky a dusky pink when they fell asleep against each other again, tangled together.  And, for the first time in more than a decade, Enji called in to the office the next day.

~*~

Ring ring

"..hello?"

"Dabi!  Long time no see.  How are you?"

"Keigo.  How did you get my number?"

"You gave it to me forever ago.  When you found me on the street and told me about the club.  You know, before your jealous boyfriend freaked out because you said I was-"

"Can I help you with something?"

"Now that you mention it, yes.  I have a favor to ask."

"Already looking to make deals like my father?  You've only had your degree what, a year?  Not very moral of you."

Keigo scoffed.  "Not that kind of favor.  Your mother misses you.  She wants you to come to dinner.  Enji doesn't want to ask because he knows you'll tell him no."

"Damn right I will."

"But I promised her I'd ask.  She says please."

Dabi was silent.

"Come on, your whole family misses you.  What's the harm in one dinner?  Shoto will be there.  You can grill his boyfriends.  And if you come, Shigaraki will come."

"Why would Shigaraki agree to come?  He doesn't even like going out.  He wouldn't want to be around my family."

"He'd want to be there because you and I would be in the same house, unsupervised."

"My entire family would be there."

"In Shigaraki's mind, do they count?"

"...no."

"Perfect then."

"Listen, you devious little asshole-"

"So I should tell Rei two more for Sunday?"

"I will burn you where you sleep."

"Good, that means you'll be coming to the house then.  Bye!"

Click.

"Fuck!"

~*~

The Honorable Shouta Aizawa was a fair judge.  Intellegent, logical.  He'd listen to almost any argument, if it was presented correctly, supported with well thought out evidence.  But he didn't tolerate foolishness in his courtroom.  Or outbursts.

"Objection!"

He pinched the bridge of his nose, then eyed the two attorneys before him, both looking fierce and shooting glares at each other.  He did his best not to slam his hand down and partially succeeded, only the closest people to him hearing the contact.

"Approach the bench.  Now."

It cut both men off and they stalked forward, standing shoulder to shoulder as they faced him.  He stared them both down.

"I don't know what's up with you two, but you need to figure out your bullshit."  He kept his voice low, only the bailiff and stenographer able to hear him.

"I know your situation, but if you can't act professionally, I'll have one or both of you removed."  He pointed at Hizashi, merrily typing away.  "Don't record that."

Raising his voice, he addressed the court at large.  "One hour's recess.  We'll reconvene at one o'clock."  The crack of his gavel brooked no argument.

He waited only long enough for the jury to be led out and then was up and gone, a flurry of robes.

Keigo and Enji glowered at each other once more, then returned to their table, seeing their client out for the break and marching, as one, towards an empty office.  As soon as the door was closed, Enji rounded on the other man.

"You little shit ."

"Don't get mad at me because your defence wouldn't have worked."

"You didn't even try!  You're going rogue!  What the fuck kind of plan is this?"

"Did you not bother to look at the paperwork that was sent over?  They knew about the alibi and had evidence to refute it.  So I spent two days looking into their source and finding someone else that could prove our client was where he said he was, when he said he was there.  Do you want me to just keep my mouth shut while the prosecution blows your whole case to hell while you watch?  If I had handed this to you after, it would have been in question.  So I didn't let you use it."

Keigo's chest was heaving, eyes blazing with conviction.  He knew he was right and he wasn't backing down.

Enji didn't like being wrong.  Especially about cases.  But Keigo's rant had knocked the wind from his sails just long enough for his brain to get ahead of his mouth.

"What paperwork?"

"The documents they sent in that bedraggled box.  The one you told Burnin' to 'deal with' ."

Enji's sails deflated a little more.  Fuck.  "So you-"

"Spent the last two days researching and coming to bed late, yeah."

He didn't back down completely, trying to rally, frowning down at Keigo.  "And why didn't you say anything to me?  This is something we should have talked about before entering the courtroom."

Keigo cocked a hip out, one hand on it, pissy.  "Oh, you mean like the hour before court when we were driving over here and I kept trying to get your attention while you were sorting folders and you snapped at me that you'd kiss me later but you needed to focus right now ?"

Enji cut his eyes away.  Damnit.  He had said that.  Because he hadn't been listening.  Assumed he had everything for the case all set and in order.

Keigo sighed, moving to lean against the wall, arms crossed.  "I know you're serious about cases.  But so am I.  You're an established attorney, you have a reputation.  A good one.  I can't depend on it dragging me along.  I won't let anything get in the way of winning a case if I can help it.  Not even you.  I found a thread, I investigated it and it paid off."

Rubbing at a temple, Enji took a small step closer to the smaller man.  His shoulders were rolled forward, just a little hunched.  As if he'd done something wrong.  And Enji had been acting like he had.  His pride was a hard pill to swallow.

He reached out once he was close enough, letting his fingertips brush Keigo's cheek, expecting to be shoved away, surprised when it was allowed, though Keigo didn't look up.

"I'm sorry."  The words were easier to say than he'd expected.  "I shouldn't have just assumed I knew best.  We're both supposed to be running this case.  And- I shouldn't have blown you off."

"That was a dick move."

Enji cupped his cheek, trying to tip his head up, gratified when gold eyes finally met his own, even if they were still angry.

"It was."

"I'm mad at you."

"I know.  You have a right to be."

Keigo frowned faintly, suspicious.

"You might have saved our case."

The suspicion started to war with pride.

"And what are you gonna do about it?"

"Let you take the lead for the rest of the case."

Keigo's jaw went slack.

"What?"

"You clearly have it well in hand.  I want to see you close it."

Keigo searched Enji's eyes, suddenly leaning into his space.

"You fuck with me about this and I'm sleeping on the couch for a month."

Enji smiled a little, shaking his head.  "I'm not."  He glanced at his watch.  Thirty minutes left.  "And I'm going to make being an asshole up to you."

"How-"

The larger man sank slowly to his knees, moving both hands to Keigo's hips, looking up at him.

Keigo's mouth went dry.  "Enji-"

He started pulling Keigo's belt open, unzipping the soft, dove grey pants to work his fingers inside, finding he liked the strangled noise Keigo made when his fingers found his cock, half hard and swiftly growing for him.

Enji looked up as he pulled Keigo free, slowly leaning in as he held his gaze, watched him bite his lip.  He needed to trust his husband more.  And he vowed to.  Starting now.

~*~

Burnin' stood outside of the office her boss had gone into, stationed like security.  The yelling had stopped.  She'd been hoping the quiet would be the end of it.  They'd come out and they could get back to work.  But-

She heard a faint moan, not quite muffled by the door and winced.  Of course not.  At least the door was thick.  If she warded people off, they shouldn't be overheard.  Hopefully.

The next moan was longer and she huffed, glaring at the wall in front of her.  They'd better appreciate this, those assholes.  She was all for love or whatever, but really, now?  She needed a fucking raise.