Chapter Text
The cool breeze pulled and pushed her skirt and hair any direction it rushed. The air smelled of cherry blossoms and fresh cut grass. She had more scars now, her eyes sunken in a bit. It had been a few days since she got a full night’s sleep.
She lowered herself to her knees in front of the gravestone. The Hero’s Memorial Garden. She knew he wasn’t buried here, but this was all she had. Her eyes locked on to the name soon overflowed with tears. She didn’t sob, though. He’d seen her sob enough. Maybe this time it could be a happier reunion.
Her hand reached to the stone, her fingertips tracing over the characters of his name.
Bakugou Katsuki, a great hero.
He was always better than great. He was the best. He’d always been victory to her.
It’s been five years since he sacrificed himself to save her. Her memory of the day was hazy, coming into vision and vanishing just as quick. Izuku always said it wasn’t something she should dwell on, but how could she not? He was undoubtedly someone very important, very precious to her. She never wanted to forget him.
Ochako shifted, moving to sit with her legs to her side. The breeze pulled at her hair again, strands streaming over her face like a river.
Hey, Bakugou, she sighed, trying to collect herself and keep her tears from continuously flowing, It’s...been a while since I’ve visited you.
I’m sorry.
You know how it is with hero work. You never really have a day off, you know?
She chuckled at her own words. The breeze whistled by and she tried to convince herself it was him agreeing and laughing with her. Laughing how they used to about their work. Her heart ached.
We… we all miss you, Bakugou. Even Izuku. I know you two didn’t really get along but I know he still thinks about you everyday. He keeps all the reports of your, and our, victories. He was always so happy for us. And he’ll never admit it to me, but I know he was always grateful that you and I worked together, because he could trust that you’d look after me.
But I know what you’re going to say. I don’t need looking after.
But in the end, you still did. It was in the little things. Making sure I was on time, ate the right food while at the agency, helped with my suit enhancements. You did so much for me and I did...nothing…
The air became still before whipping past her angrily in a sudden rush.
You don’t have to scold me, Bakugou, again, she chuckled to herself. I know you really believed in me. But it’s okay to want to help me out. Regardless if you meant it or not, I’m still appreciative.
But I’m never going to feel like I repaid you for your kindness. And now I never can…
The tears began to cascade again. But there were no sobs. Her shoulders shook, a sniffle here and there, but it was otherwise silent. The breeze was softer and she could have sworn she felt a hand on her shoulder.
But it was just the wind.
I knew, Bakugou… I knew when I woke up in the hospital. Why you did what you did. I’m sorry it took me so long to notice.
I know it’s too late to say, but I would never have turned you away before Izuku and I started our relationship.
If I’m honest, I had a pretty big crush on you, too. But… I’m not sure, you were just always out of reach, I suppose. Until we really started to work together. I’m still so happy we did. You were the best work partner I could have ever had.
She wrung her hands in the fabric of her skirt over and over, kneading them over her bruised and cracked knuckles.
I still can’t forgive myself… I let myself get distracted, attacked, and you… She choked on a sob in her throat, Died…
She could no longer hold back. The wracking sobs let loose like an imploding star. Her tears streamed. Her lungs ached.
In the distance, she heard the unmistakable screech of, Mommy!
She stifled her sobs, wiping her face of her tears. Bakugou, when you saved me… That was the day I found out I was pregnant.
A small child bounded towards her, her husband not far behind. The pink blush and myriad of freckles always warmed her heart. His bright green eyes sparkled like a jewel in the sun. The spiky brown hair whipping in the wind. The child giggled as he jumped towards her, falling into her arms and lap. She ran her hand through his hair, planting a wet kiss on his forehead.
Bakugou , she spoke softly, I’d like you to meet my son,
Katsuki.
The breeze halted again. The air grew warmer and warmer. She felt a weight lifted off her chest.
Everyday he talks about being the greatest hero ever, just like his hero Bakugou. He wants to be just like you.
We both tell him stories about you all the time. He’s so happy his hair looks like yours.
Izuku sauntered up behind her, sitting on the grass as well. The young child jumped from parent to parent. Izuku placed a hand on her shoulder, giving her a gentle squeeze.
We have to go now, Bakugou. It’s Katsuki’s birthday and we’re on our way to visit my parents.
Izuku stood, holding on to the small child. They giggled together as Izuku threw him over his shoulder and made a leap toward the vehicle in the distance.
But she was still frozen. Even if he couldn’t hear her, see her, anymore, she needed to say it properly.
Thank you, Bakugou. For everything.