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“What would happen if someone just jumped in?”
“Shinsou no.”
“It'd be hilarious. Don't try and deny it.”
“Uraraka gave us tickets on the idea that you behave yourself. Just... act like you have sanity?”
“Too unrealistic. Blocked.”
“Why did I bring you?”
Hitoshi laughed as Midoriya rubbed his hands over his face. Midoriya sighed loudly as they walked by the large tanks. Hitoshi took a sip from the thermos he had in his hand. Fish and other smaller sea life swam through the water than filled them. Dim lights shined on the paths around the tanks, and brighter lights shined from inside the tank—making weird patterns on the floor. It was well put together, at least. Tanks along the edges of the room and in the middle. A lot of them were huge and continuous around corners and curves, even overhead. The only reason Hitoshi really agreed to come along was the aesthetic. He already took his selfies—Midoriya got dragged into a few of them—so he was satisfied.
One of Midoriya's other friends, Uraraka, gave them free tickets. She was working there as a greeter—that's Hitoshi's understanding of what she did, but probably not all she did—and the managers gave out tickets for employees to use with their families. Uraraka said it was to stop anyone from getting annoyed with pay, or hours, but she'd let her friends take advantage of it even if she wasn't interested. Midoriya wanted to see some of the new creatures they got because he was a total nerd. He asked Hitoshi if he wanted to come, since Uraraka was working, Iida had a family thing, and Hitoshi rarely had anything to do on weekends. Hitoshi agreed because he figured it'd be good to go out, and the aesthetic lighting—obviously.
It was a pretty mundane day, overall. Hitoshi made it more interesting for himself by commenting and narrating on whatever he felt like. Midoriya read all the little plaques. He did enjoy the things Hitoshi said even if he tried not to laugh or smile. They'd been friends long enough for Hitoshi to notice when he was doing that kind of thing.
Most of the people around them were adults with children along with the occasional couple holding hands and walking close together. It was the weekend, so the aquarium was pretty crowded, and there were a lot of large groups shuffling around at various tanks. A few were obviously tourists, which made no sense, really. Their town wasn't anything special, and the aquarium wasn't the kind of thing most people usually went to when visiting a town unless it was famous. It certainly wasn't, so it made less sense.
They roamed around for awhile more before anything of real significance happened. Hitoshi made fun of different fish and other creatures. Midoriya tried not to laugh and failed most of the time. Hitoshi also took a few more selfies, Midoriya popping in on some of them, and posted them.
As they stopped at one of the larger, general tanks in a little circle of them, Midoriya stopped. Hitoshi didn't notice until the other walked up next to him a few seconds later.
“Hot guy, four o'clock,” Midoriya said quickly, looking down with slightly wide eyes. Hitoshi felt himself smirking a little and he glanced in that direction.
“Sea urchin hair or red and white?” Hitoshi asked quietly, looking back at the tank.
It was fairly easy to tell who Midoriya was talking about. There were only two guys their age in that direction. Around them were middle-aged couples and groups of kids. No misconceptions to be had on that. The one closest to them was a little taller. He had red and white hair that fell a little past his ears. He was dressed pretty classy for an aquarium, considering how dirty it was around the place. Midoriya had that kind of taste, though. The other one had spiky ash blond hair. He was wearing a dark bomber jacket and what looked like old jeans. They were standing pretty close side by side in front of a tank that had more exotic fish.
“Red and white,” Midoriya said. His eyes were darting around and he looked a little panicked. “I'm so gay. Oh my god he's so attractive. What the hell. That's illegal.”
“I dunno,” Hitoshi snorted. “Blondie's pretty good looking, too.”
“You haven't even seen their faces,” Midoriya hissed. Hitoshi shrugged. They were quiet for a few seconds as Midoriya tried to glance over at the two without making it obvious. “Be my wingman.”
“What. No,” Hitoshi said, frowning down at Midoriya. The other just gave him a look. They stared at each other for a few seconds. Midoriya pulled out the puppy eyes.
“Please?” he asked, voice quiet in that way he knew got what he wanted. Hitoshi scowled and looked away. Midoriya poked his side and whined, tugging on his sleeve. Dammit, he was weak.
“Fine, fine, fine,” Hitoshi sighed, swatting him away. Midoriya grinned and fist pumped. Hitoshi finished off his water bottle and tapped the empty plastic against his thigh. “I'm gonna throw this out, be right back. Try not to gay panic so much.”
“Like you can judge after the Oj--”
“We promised never to speak of it. Now I'll be right back.”
Hitoshi walked off, ignoring Midoriya's snickering behind him. He knew he passed the garbage bin on their way in, but because of where they ended up, he had to walk right past the two guys. The two of them were moving down towards where Midoriya was so Hitoshi got a good look at their faces. Yeah, Hitoshi could see why Midoriya freaked out a little. Hitoshi was pretty sure he caught the blond one looking at him, but probably not. He tossed the bottle in the trash and started to make his way back.
Midoriya was being nowhere near discreet, and Hitoshi bit his lip to keep from laughing out loud. Hitoshi stood next to him and Midoriya used him as a form of cover to stare more openly. Hitoshi was a lot less obvious, using the reflection of the tank. Midoriya needed to step up his game.
“They're going, c'mon follow 'em,” Midoriya urged, nudging Hitoshi a little. “Go, go.”
Hitoshi snickered and started walking. Midoriya followed close behind him, holding onto his sleeve a little. Hitoshi whispered to him that they might get the wrong idea and Midoriya jabbed him in the side. They followed the other two as they went through a passage to another room of tanks.
“This is stalker-ish,” Hitoshi commented as they stopped in front of a long tank that the two guys were also in front of, just further down. Far away enough not to stand out but enough for Midoriya to look. He had no shame around Hitoshi, really. “Why don't you just go and talk to him? Like a normal person.”
“Shut up and be a wingman,” Midoriya said.
“How do I do that? Not like we're at a bar or something in the movies. I can't just walk up and say hey man, that social reject is gay as shit and thinks you're hot.”
“I dunno, but it's your job to figure it out.”
Hitoshi snorted and glanced over. Midoriya was muttering a little under his breath—nothing that made any real sense. The blond and other were talking, but it didn't seem like friendly conversation exactly. Hitoshi could only really see the blond one, but he didn't look happy. But then again, Hitoshi was told he looked like zombie more often than not, so looks are deceiving.
They ended up following those two guys for a while. Midoriya spent most of his time watching them, while Hitoshi made fun of fish and looked over a few times himself. He did manage to get Midoriya's attention off the guys for a few minutes at a time, but the other was pretty determined to check the red and white one out as often as possible. Hitoshi found it a little ridiculous. He understood exactly why Midoriya was doing it—he's had his fair share of instant crushes—but he still wouldn't hesitate to make fun of Midoriya. He had good reactions.
A few minutes later, the red and white one seemed to excuse himself and walked off in the direction of the bathroom. Hitoshi took that as a chance. When Midoriya got distracted reading one of the plaques since he didn't have the guy to stare at, Hitoshi walked over. He just walked behind all the groups as they crowded the front of the tank. The blond guy was off to the side, arms crossed and leaning on an empty stretch of wall. Definitely not open to conversation but Hitoshi wasn't scared of that kind of thing. He walked right up and cleared his throat.
The guy flinched a little, turning his head from where he was looking off to the side. He looked at Hitoshi and glanced him up and down. Hitoshi just waited a few seconds before talking.
“Ok, I'm gonna make this short,” Hitoshi sighed. He pointed over at Midoriya. “Greenie over there is gay as hell and has been checking out that red and white guy you've been walking around with for like half an hour. I can't take his muttering anymore. Help me set them up so I can stop suffering? At least a little? Does he even like guys?”
The guy blinked a few times, shocked still. Hitoshi shoved his hands in his pants pockets and waited. The blond stood there for a minute or two before snorting and rubbing his hand over his face.
“Goddamn. Thank god,” he muttered. Hitoshi frowned and raised an eyebrow. “He's been whining about the damn broccoli hair way too long. I can't take his crappy whining anymore.”
Hitoshi snorted and quickly covered his mouth. He glanced over to make sure Midoriya didn't hear anything. It wouldn't work if Midoriya knew there was a third party helping out. He was weird like that.
“I'm Shinsou, and greenie's Midoriya,” Hitoshi introduced, nodding over his shoulder.
“Bakugou,” the blond said, pushing off the wall and putting his hands in the pockets of his jacket. “Half and half is Todoroki. You got a plan for this shit?”
“Cliche?” Hitoshi shrugged, glancing back again to make sure Midoriya was totally invested in reading whatever it was now. The other hadn't even noticed Hitoshi left, but he would soon enough. “He's a complete sap. Trip one of them into the other?”
“Works fine with me as long as I don't have to deal with his annoying as crap whining,” Bakugou grumbled, nodded.
“I'll get greenie near him, do the thing, and you just make sure he doesn't screw up,” Hitoshi explained quickly. Bakugou nodded again and Hitoshi gave him a thumbs up before rushing back to Midoriya—who never even realized Hitoshi left.
X X X X X
Luckily, Bakugou was good at silent communication, so he and Hitoshi could just exchange glances and small nods and hand motions to know what the other was planning to do. They managed to start inching closer, and if one of them fell behind, they'd delay moving on. It was pretty intricate for a conversation that lasted a few seconds.
Hitoshi didn't know about the red and white—Todoroki—but Midoriya kept muttering things to Hitoshi. Most of them were gushing about how attractive the aforementioned guy was. Hitoshi let him go, wondering if they got close enough without Midoriya noticing, the guy would just hear. But he seemed fairly oblivious. He managed to catch the guy glancing over, but only when Midoriya was in his own world, reading the little plaques, or not looking at all. Hitoshi also saw Bakugou angrily saying things to Todoroki after the other turned back around. He kind of wanted to know, but at the same time didn't. Midoriya had no idea that Hitoshi was slowly getting them closer, and he hoped Todoroki wouldn't notice either. It would make for an easier reaction.
Four or so rooms later, Hitoshi started to put his “master plan” into play. Midoriya had pulled a water bottle out at some point and was almost done with it. Hitoshi made sure to put them in a place with minimum people besides them and Todoroki and Bakugou. Also where the nearest trash bin was past where Todoroki and Bakugou were standing. It was probably a little too elaborate, but it was much simpler in his head, so he went with it.
Midoriya finished the water bottle, and he glanced around for the trash bin. Hitoshi was standing on the side closer to it, and shifted back in a way he hoped seemed natural. Midoriya looked like he was ready to just walk over when his expression suddenly dropped and he whimpered a little. Hitoshi gave him a confused look and hoped his minimal acting experience from being forced into school productions wouldn't fail him now. He pretended—acted, he told himself, mindset was key—like he only now noticed that Todoroki and Bakugou were standing in between them. He was also hoping and betting on Midoriya also being his usual awkward, klutzy self, too, but that never failed them. Todoroki was standing closest to them, which meant it'd be far easier to pull off what he was going to try.
“Dude, just walk behind them,” Hitoshi said. Midoriya glared at him briefly before hiding his in Hitoshi's shoulder. He shoved him off, though. It wouldn't work if Todoroki thought they were together. Midoritya whined.
“Can you just throw it out?” Midoriya asked hesitantly. Hitoshi gave him a flat look and Midoriya huffed. “You're closer.”
“I'm lazier,” Hitoshi said solemnly. Midoriya scoffed, grinning for a second before shaking his head and biting his lip. “Onward, small awkward broccoli.”
“Never say that,” Midoriya hissed, punching him lightly in the side. It still hurt, and usually, Hitoshi would give an over dramatic reaction, but he had a plan. Midoriya didn't notice his lack of reaction, and took a deep breath and started walking forward.
Hitoshi waited until he took a few steps before tripping him. He had long legs—enough, at least—and didn't have to stretch too hard to trip Midoriya. It wasn't that hard making Midoriya fall over or at least just stumble. The poor guy tripped over his own feet so much Hitoshi said they should get him one of those hamster bubbles for his own well being. Uraraka, Iida, and a few of their other friends agreed and Hitoshi and Uraraka may or may not be looking into one for his birthday. But that was beside the point. Point was that Midoriya easily tripped and Hitoshi stepped back like he did nothing. He got a short warning out and Todoroki turned. Perfect positioning, and Hitoshi let himself have a small fist-pump in his head as Todoroki instinctually caught Midoriya.
Now it was up for Midoriya to be his admittedly adorable self and pull through. He doubted that Midoriya didn't know he tripped him, but Midoriya was also smart enough to pick up on what Hitoshi was doing and go with it. Bakugou seemed shocked but looked up at Hitoshi and picked up on what was going on. Hitoshi and him exchanged another look.
“Oh god, I am so sorry,” Midoriya started saying instantly. He was used to falling into people and having to apologize like crazy. “That was a total accident, I am... so so sorry, I—uh.”
“It's alright,” Todoroki said, calm and quiet. Hitoshi had a feeling this was gonna be good, especially if Todoroki always had that kind of relaxed tone and personality that he was displaying there. Midoriya was a sucker for that. “Are you alright?”
“Yeah, totally,” Midoriya said as he straightened himself. He looked up. “...Uh... Yeah! Um—Totally fine! Happens all the... uh, all the time. Yeah. I-I'm fine--” he paused and stared for a few seconds. Hitoshi stifled a laugh “--A-Are you.. okay?”
“I'm fine, you're the one that tripped,” Todoroki said matter of factly.
Midoriya smiled nervously and scratched the side of his neck nervously. Hitoshi was ready to jump in, but hung back a little longer. It wouldn't work if Midoriya let Hitoshi do it all. Todoroki didn't look like he was reacting, but judging by how Bakugou was looking the two over, he was and just didn't show it. He was probably just reserved or something. Midoriya was laughing anxiously, now, trying to fill the silence as he tried to put words together. Hitoshi resisted the urge to push him forward or poke him, and acted like he didn't care.
“S-So...” Midoriya said. Todoroki was still paying attention, and nodded to show he was listening. “You... come here a lot?”
“Not really,” Todoroki shrugged. Hitoshi was holding back a gag at the line Midoriya used and covered it with a cough. There were more people in the room, now, but Midoriya still heard it and show him a glare over his shoulder. “One of my friends had tickets, so I dragged him along--” he pointed to Bakugou, who rolled his eyes and crossed his arms “--Since we had nothing to do. First time being in this aquarium.”
“One of my friends gave me and him tickets, too,” Midoriya said. Hitoshi knew that tone of voice, and it meant he was giving the full smile. He glanced over and Todoroki was blushing lightly. Stronger men have fallen, so it was expected. Todoroki nodded. “Do you wanna... walk around together? My friend works here and made me listen to her practice tours so I know my way around.
Todoroki seemed taken back but nodded and muttered a thanks. Midoriya excused himself and went around the corner to throw the bottle out, walking with more bounce in his step. Hitoshi scoffed and rolled his eyes, but he knew he was grinning regardless. Todoroki turned to Bakugou and whispered to him loudly. Hitoshi couldn't make anything out, but it seemed excited in the least. Midoriya came back and smiled at Todoroki again—Hitoshi was right about the full smile. He did quick introductions and it seemed like Todoroki noticed Hitoshi for the first time.
Midoriya and Todoroki started walking side by side as they went to next room. Hitoshi was behind them with Bakugou. He extended his hand and Bakugou high-fived him without hesitation. Midoriya was almost reciting what Uraraka said to them when she was practicing, with a few alterations to make it sound like it wasn't word for word. Hitoshi took his phone out and took a quick picture of Todoroki and Midoriya. He sent it to Uraraka, who loved seeing “her boys” go after crushes or just talk to people outside their friend group. Midoriya would hopefully be fine, but Hitoshi would bail him out if everything went horribly wrong. It might, because who knew if Midoriya would accidentally offend someone.
X X X X X
Hitoshi cackled and leaned his head sideways, the seal in front of him following his motion and tilting in the water They reached the section with seals, otters, dolphins, and a few other animals like that Hitoshi didn't bother to know. He was pretty sure there were the sharks somewhere nearby, though.
“Shinsou, seriously?” Midoriya asked. Hitoshi waved him off and spun around. The seal did a barrel roll motion and Hitoshi giggled again. “You are enjoying that way too much.”
“Don't make me tell the petting zoo story,” Hitoshi warned, smirking over at him. Midoriya thought for a second before he gasped and looked offended. He huffed and went back to tell Todoroki things about the animals.
“What's the petting zoo story?” Bakugou asked him quietly so Midoriya didn't hear. Him and Todoroki were already walking over to another tank, though, so they were in the clear.
Midoriya and Todoroki had been walking ahead of Hitoshi and Bakugou since they first started walking together. Bakugou and Hitoshi ended up walking together, mostly so Hitoshi could make his sarcastic comments to someone. Bakugou either shot back and they went back and forth for a little, or snorted at what Hitoshi said. Hitoshi didn't hesitate to make some of his comments to Midoriya who either swatted him away or was caught off guard enough to laugh. Todoroki looked confused at most of them, which Hitoshi learned from Bakugou was because he was “socially awkward as hell.” Hitoshi normally liked to mess with people, especially if they wouldn't know it, but he had mercy since this meant Midoriya wouldn't be whining all the way home.
“He chased baby goats around, and tried to 'be one of them',” Hitoshi said, glancing over at Midoriya again to make sure he wasn't eavesdropping. Bakugou sputtered a little and gave Hitoshi a shocked look. Hitoshi smirked and nodded slightly. “Yeah. He picked one up and it pooped, like, instantly. He screamed and then yelled at me for getting it all on video.”
“That's stupid as shit,” Bakugou scoffed, shaking his head disbelievingly. Hitoshi was still playing with the seal as he talked, but he didn't seem to mind. “You don't pick up a goddamn animal if it doesn't know you.”
“And you know that because?” Hitoshi asked, glancing over at him.
“First, common sense, asshat,” Bakugou said, scowling and punching him in the shoulder. Hitoshi shrugged, smirking. The punch actually hurt a bit. “Second, my parents shipped me out to some farm school thing couple summers back. They had three rules, don't pick up baby animals without gloves, watch out for cow shit, and beware the big goat.”
“The big goat?” Hitoshi snorted. The seal swam away to go do something else, and Hitoshi stood back up straight, putting his hands in his pockets. Bakugou nodded and sighed.
“This big ass leader goat,” Bakugou explained, gesturing with his hands. They started walking towards where Todoroki and Midoriya were looking at one of those hands-on tanks that were filled with starfish. “Total asshole, too. This one girl that was there was scared as shit and tried to walk in 'cause we had to lead them down to the field, right? The instructor's like 'oh don't be scared, they won't hurt you if you have confidence' or some crap like that. So she goes in and in less than ten seconds of her just walking in, asshole leader goat head butts her in the gut. The goat tried that shit with everyone.”
“And what did you do?” Hitoshi asked, chuckling a little.
“I screamed and chased it for half an hour. Never tried that with me again,” Bakugou said, looking over at Hitoshi. Hitoshi stifled the laughter that came with that mental image. “Yeah... but apparently, you're not allowed to yell at the animals and I had to clean cow shit for a week.”
“That sucks, but it's also hilarious,” Hitoshi chuckled. Bakugou smirked for a second, but forced it into a frown. “I mean I got chased by a chicken once, but that's the only crazy animal experience I've really had... Actually, no I fell in a fish tank once. That was weird.”
“How--” Bakugou started.
“There was a loft space above a tank, and I slipped trying to be cool by standing on the wrong side of the railing,” Hitoshi explained quickly. Bakugou gave him a baffled look and Hitoshi grinned guiltily. “Right into the tank. No fish died, surprisingly, but yeah... that happened. Not fun.”
“Well no shit it wouldn't be fun,” Bakugou said. Midoriya and Todoroki were moving onto another thing, and Hitoshi and Bakugou followed them. Bakugou scowled and grumbled at the two of them. “I can't believe we have to follow them around. This is boring as hell.”
“Midoriya will fall again, don't worry,” Hitoshi sighed. Bakugou frowned and gave a confused look again. He seemed to shrug it off and they followed the other two in silence. Bakugou took his jacket off, grumbling something about it being hot, and tied it around his hips. Hitoshi glanced over as he crossed his arms. He had to keep the next comment coming up to himself, not because it was a bad joke, but because it might have been very gay. He'd revel in it mentally though, because those arms were hot.
X X X X X
Midoriya did fall, or stumble, at least four times as they were going through the aquarium. Todoroki hurriedly helped him up and asked if he was alright every time. Bakugou gave Hitoshi a “seriously?” look the third time. Hitoshi should have put money on it. He could always use more cash, especially when he knew he'd get it from a bet.
Regardless of Midoriya being far too clumsy for his own good, Todoroki and him were hitting it off. Midoriya went on little tangents when they came up to something he knew a lot about—even a few he didn't, but Hitoshi wasn't going to rat him out—and Todoroki seemed to genuinely be interested. Hitoshi felt almost proud that Midoriya found someone that would listen to him go on and on like that. Todoroki and Midoriya stayed together and ignored Bakugou and Hitoshi's existence as they went. Hitoshi probably should've been insulted and messed with them a little, just because, but he'd let them have peace. That didn't mean he wouldn't make fun of them, still, but Bakugou seemed to be enjoying just like before.
It was interesting talking with him outside of the insistent mocking, too. Bakugou apparently hadn't wanted to be there in the slightest, but Todoroki was annoyingly persistent and knew Bakugou didn't have plans. Hitoshi also learned Todoroki was from a family that was rich as hell, but he was basically the rebel child. The only reason Bakugou and Todoroki met was because Bakugou and his other friends broke into Todoroki's estate on Halloween to TP it—apparently, Todoroki's dad was a widely known asshole in their neighborhood—and one of them accidentally hit Todoroki in the face when he opened a window. Todoroki literally ran outside and joined them without hesitation. They hung out in a group all night and even went and got food. Sounded like fun to Hitoshi, at least.
The four of them stopped in the tiny “food court” area and all sat down at the same table. Todoroki said he and Bakugou would go and get food and asked for orders. Bakugou didn't look even slightly pleased with being forced to do that but reluctantly followed him after Midoriya and Hitoshi said what they wanted. There was a small coffee place and Hitoshi went off to get his order himself—mostly because the last time he let someone order and get it for him, it was half the strength he asked for. He got that Todoroki was trying to be the gentleman, but he didn't want to risk them screwing up his coffee. Midoriya was loving the treatment though, soaking it up with a shy smile. The second Todoroki and Bakugou were out of ear shot, Midoriya started gushing.
“Shinsou, he's so polite,” Midoriya whispered hurriedly. Hitoshi just smirked a little and raised an eyebrow. “He listened and was so sweet, I-I ahhhh.”
“Congrats, awkward broccoli,” Hitoshi said, standing up. Midoriya shot him an annoyed look. “I need coffee.”
“You could have just asked them to get you some,” Midoriya sighed, resting his elbows on the table. Hitoshi shook his head and went to pull some money out of his wallet. “Is that Bakugou nice?”
“He curses like a sailor and has punched me multiple times,” Hitoshi shrugged. Midoriya looked surprised and a bit worried. “But he's a hot, sarcastic, and had arms that I would proudly let suffocate me. He's a delight. Be right back.”
Hitoshi went over and got his usual coffee order. There was only a few people looking to get anything from the little shop, since it was past midday and most people already had their daily coffee. It wasn't a long wait and Hitoshi was sitting down with a hot cup before Bakugou and Todoroki came back. When the other two did come back, Bakugou looked a little more pissed and they put all the food on the table. It wasn't completely the fast food kind, but it wasn't proper restaurant food either—a weird middle ground, but still good tasting.
Todoroki and Midoriya talked about one thing or another while they all ate. Bakugou didn't eat anything, though. He just had some kind of drink in his hands. Hitoshi gave him a funny look and as he ate his own food. Bakugou gave him a look when he noticed that Hitoshi was drinking coffee.
“What?” Bakugou snapped.
“Why aren't you eating?” Hitoshi asked. Midoriya looked at them concernedly, but Todoroki didn't seem worried.
“Why the hell are you drinking coffee? It's 2 pm,” Bakugou growled back, scowling.
“I asked first,” Hitoshi said. Bakugou rolled his eyes and huffed.
“Diet,” Todoroki answered for him.
“Shut up, half-and-half, I can answer my own damn questions,” Bakugou said, glaring at Todoroki. Todoroki just stared back blankly for a few seconds before going back his food. Midoriya followed his lead. Hitoshi waited for further explanation. “I don't eat food like this. It's shit and I need to stay in shape.”
“One meal wouldn't hurt,” Todoroki mumbled. Bakugou glared at him again and Todoroki acted like he never said anything.
“Shut the hell up,” Bakugou spat. Todoroki ignored him and went back to talking about whatever with Midoriya. Midoriya decided that was better and went with it. Hitoshi snorted and hid his grin behind the lid of the coffee cup. Bakugou looked back to him. “Now what's with the coffee?”
“Insomnia makes you pick up habits,” Hitoshi shrugged. Bakugou frowned and there was a flash of concern on his face. “Coffee addiction is the better one.”
“Blasting musicals at one am is a worse one,” Midoriya added. Hitoshi gasped in mock offense. Bakugou scoffed and Hitoshi was pretty sure he saw a bit of a smile there. Todoroki glanced between Midoriya and Hitoshi with a mixed expression. “If I have to hear Candy Store one more time while I'm trying to sleep, I will kick you out.”
“You two live together?” Todoroki asked, a bit hesitantly.
“Oh yeah, it's cheaper and we're at the same university,” Midoriya said. Todoroki looked vaguely confused and Midoriya frowned curiously. Bakugou seemed disinterested with whatever was going on. Hitoshi hated the silence and blinked a few times before he got it.
“He's single,” Hitoshi said quickly. Midoriya's face lit up and Todoroki blushed a little. Bakugou choked on his drink a little and coughed to try and clear his throat. Todoroki opened and closed his mouth a few times like he was going to argue or say that wasn't what he was asking. “And that is what you were basically implying, don't try and deny it. Everyone assumes it, no big deal.”
“Shinsou...” Midoriya whined, face still red as he hid it in his hands. Todoroki went into embarrassed silence. Bakugou went back to going quiet, but didn't look up at anyone. “Why do you have to be so forward? Oh my god.”
“Because if I wasn't, then we'd never get anything done,” Hitoshi sighed, leaning back in his chair. “Just ask the guy out. It's annoying seeing you two pine after an hour of knowing each other.”
Both Midoriya and Todoroki went red—Midoriya even redder. Hitoshi grinned as Midoriya mumbled things incoherently under his breath and whined. Todoroki opened and closed his mouth a few more times before he cleared his throat. Bakugou choked on his drink again but stopped the coughing before it started. He gave Hitoshi a wide eyed look. Hitoshi smiled innocently and calmly drank his coffee.
“Sh-Shinsou!” Midoriya sputtered. “Why do y—! Why do... Why do I take you places!?”
“I'll stop talking when you start asking,” Hitoshi said in a sing song voice. Midoriya gave him an angry look, but any threatening effect was ruined by the fact he was glowing. “Three... two...”
“Fine! Just shut up,” Midoriya said. He took a deep breath and Hitoshi nodded in satisfaction. Midoriya turned to Todoroki, who was slowly going redder. “Do you wanna go out?”
“I—uh, yes,” Todoroki stuttered. Bakugou scoffed and laughed at him. Todoroki shot him a glare and Bakugou pointedly looked away. Midoriya let out a sigh of relief and Hitoshi snickered under his breath. “I'll give you my—um—phone number... If that's alright with you.”
“Yeah, of course!” Midoriya nodded, fumbling for his phone. Hitoshi put his cup down and clapped his hands quietly. Midoriya smacked his shoulder as he handed Todoroki his phone. He gave Hitoshi another annoyed look, but Hitoshi knew he was at least a little happy. A flash of realization crossed his face and he smiled overly innocently and Hitoshi knew something was going to happen. “What about you? You gonna keep drooling over those arms in silence?”
Hitoshi felt the eyes of the other two turn to him. Dammit, he was blushing and Midoriya was reveling in it. Midoriya grinned widely and sighed happily. Todoroki handed him back his phone and Midoriya thanked him. Hitoshi stared blankly at him. He knew that Bakugou was staring holes in the side of his head. Hitoshi let out a deep breath and shoved the blush down. He took a slow sip of his coffee and turned his head back to face forward. Yup, Bakugou was staring at him.
“What,” Bakugou muttered. Was he blushing?
“Nothing at all,” Hitoshi said quickly. He finished the coffee and stood up. “I'm hitting the bathroom. Midoriya, you can kiss my ass.”
Hitoshi patted his hands on the table and walked away, empty cup in hand. He'd get Midoriya back later, probably by playing a song on repeat during the night or messing with the various collector's items he had around. Hiding one of his figurines and watching his panic sounded great. Maybe putting a box of them on top of the cabinets and watch him try to climb—hilarious, but it would probably lead to injury, and Hitoshi hated dealing with whiny Midoriya, so that was a no.
Bakugou was completely silent when Hitoshi came back, looking down and sipping his drink. Midoriya filled the silence fairly easily, talking about this or that and knowing better than to push Hitoshi. Todoroki seemed to realize that what just happened wasn't good to talk about and just listened to Midoriya.
Soon, they finished their food and Todoroki made Bakugou help him throw everything away. Midoriya asked Hitoshi if he wanted to keep walking around. He also apologized, but said Hitoshi kind of deserved it. Hitoshi didn't disagree with him, and shrugged to the question. Chances were Bakugou would be silent while they kept going, considering how quiet he went already. Hitoshi wouldn't have someone to share his commentary with, but he could still keep himself entertained with it, so he'd be good. Midoriya already had Todoroki's number, and that was a mission accomplished for Midoriya—and Hitoshi, because it was his plan and all. But now, Midoriya could call and text Todoroki, so they could always go out on a different day and didn't need to linger at the exact moment. Hitoshi really didn't care, so he was cool with either way.
Midoriya decided that since there were only a few rooms left, and they might as well go through them. He made sure Hitoshi knew that he could talk to them even if he was talking with Todoroki. Hitoshi knew that, and assured him that he would if he actually wanted to. Midoriya still seemed a little guilty, but Hitoshi would definitely let him know if he wanted to go home.
Todoroki and Bakugou came back and Midoriya said his little plan of just going through the last few rooms. Todoroki agreed and Bakugou was quiet. Midoriya went back to leading the way. Todoroki seemed a little hesitant to start walking next to him again, but still did. Bakugou ended up walking a few steps behind Hitoshi. Midoriya and Todoroki started talking about whatever again as they went. Hitoshi took his phone out in between exhibits, got a few other good looking pictures, and checked his notifications. Uraraka had texted him back during her break. It was mostly emojis and gibberish.
They went through the last few rooms quickly. Midoriya talked about all the things he knew about in each room, and sooner than Hitoshi thought it would take, they were already in the last room. It was one of those room surrounding, connected tanks that gave all kinds of cool lighting. All filled with the crazy color fish like you'd see in National Geographic and other miscellaneous types. Hitoshi took his obligatory pictures—because how could you see that and not—and Midoriya hopped in a few of them. Todoroki got dragged into some of the ones with Midoriya, and he pulled Bakugou into one or two. Midoriya and Hitoshi also made it their job to find fish that looked like them. A bright green one wasn't too hard to find, but the one that Hitoshi pointed out even had splatters of dark spots that looked like freckles. Midoriya found a black one with purple fins and said it almost wore as much black as Hitoshi did. A red and white one was harder to find, but they managed and Todoroki looked happy when Midoriya pointed it out to him. Todoroki then joined them to help them find another fish that looked like Bakugou—who spoke up for the first time since eating that the idea was stupid.
It was Midoriya that found a puffer fish and gestured the other three over. Bakugou was mid sentence, saying that it didn't look a thing like him when Hitoshi tapped the glass quickly and quietly so they didn't get it trouble. The fish puffed up, and the spikes pointed out. Bakugou went silent again, this time in annoyance, and he scowled as Hitoshi grinned and Midoriya giggled like a child. Todoroki snorted and covered his mouth before anything else could slip out. Bakugou punched Hitoshi in the shoulder, and then Todoroki, too. Midoriya hid behind Hitoshi and was spared. Bakugou still wasn't talking exactly, but it was more a huffy anger and he grumbled every now and then.
They messed around for a little longer. Hitoshi pointed out all the weird looking fish, saying they looked like various other people he knew and disliked. Midoriya laughed at those, since he knew the actual people, but Bakugou only snorted at a few of them. Todoroki listened to Midoriya talk about the different kinds and where they were from in awe—Hitoshi caught Midoriya skimming the different plaques, though, so he knew it wasn't that amazing. Bakugou seemed to have relaxed a little bit, and Hitoshi started up with his little commentary again. They hung out in that room probably a little too long, but it was entertaining even if some of the other people there gave them looks.
After, they moved onto the small, cheap gift shop. Everything was way over priced, but Hitoshi had no problem buying one of the little plushies. Midoriya gave him an exasperated look when he saw Hitoshi holding it. It was a literal cat-fish, fit in his palm, and was a deep purple. How could he not? A cute kitten face and upper body, and a stubby little fish bottom half. Todoroki said it wasn't scientifically accurate, but that was the point. It'd be horrifying if it was the scientific version, and he didn't like the way actual catfish looked. Midoriya found something that he wanted—an information book on something Hitoshi didn't really care about—and Todoroki insisted on treating him and buying it for him. Midoriya and Todoroki lingered in the shop far longer than Hitoshi and Bakugou, who went to stand in the official entrance-exit space.
Hitoshi was seriously loving the little cat-fish plush. Bakugou was giving him a weird look, but Hitoshi just smiled and squished the plush's little face in his direction. Bakugou rolled his eyes and scoffed. Hitoshi chuckled and put the plush in his pocket. He was really happy and no awkwardness was going to take him down at that point. He'd probably lose the thing, but he'd enjoy it while he knew where it was.
“I can't believe that tripping shit worked,” Bakugou said, looking over at where Todoroki and Midoriya could be seen in the glass wall in front of the shop. Hitoshi glanced over and shrugged. “Did they even notice we pulled that?”
“Probably not,” Hitoshi snickered. “Midoriya is so dense for all his smarts. It's a little concerning.”
“No shit,” Bakugou said, leaning against the wall and crossing his arms. He sighed. Hitoshi leaned back next to him.
More people were leaving than going in at that time. It was getting late, so everyone was heading home. It was mostly families in the entrance area. Kids were begging their parents for things from the little giftstore—some gave in right away, others reluctantly, and the rest vehemently denied anything the kids asked for. Hitoshi and Bakugou were standing off to the side near the exit-entrance of the store. Bakugou hadn't gotten anything, and didn't want to stay in there longer than he had to. Hitoshi's phone went off again, and he pulled it out to check and got distracted by something else on it.
There was no more conversation between the two of them until Midoriya and Todoroki came out. Each of them had a bag. Hitoshi looked at Midoriya disbelievingly and the other shrugged innocently. Bakugou rolled his eyes and Todoroki frowned at him.
“Well, it was a pleasure meeting you,” Todoroki said, expression instantly changing into a small smile. Midoriya smiled back—the really big show stopper—and nodded. “Bakugou and I should get going.”
“Yeah, me and Shinsou, too,” Midoriya said. Bakugou pushed off the wall and stood next to Todoroki. “I'll text you so you have my number.”
“Sounds good,” Todoroki agreed. Hitoshi wouldn't deny he looked gorgeous smiling like that, and Midoriya would probably gush the whole way home about it. “Have a good afternoon.”
“You too!” Midoriya said, smiling wider as Todoroki and Bakugou walked off. Todoroki waved and Bakugou glanced back a few times.
Hitoshi sighed and put his phone away, stepping up next to Midoriya. Midoriya was practically vibrating with happiness and took some deep breaths to calm down. That took a few seconds, and by then, Todoroki and Bakugou seemed to be long gone. Midoriya let out a deep sigh and seemed to have collected himself enough. He looked up at Hitoshi, still smiling, and Hitoshi snorted at his expression.
“You're welcome,” Hitoshi said, patting him on the head. Midoriya swatted his hand away and giggled.
“So you did trip me, huh?” Midoriya asked. Hitoshi nodded. Midoriya huffed as they started walking to the exit. “Can't say the outcome sucked... Did you get that guy's number?”
“Nope,” Hitoshi said. They stepped outside and went towards Midoriya's car.
“What!?” Midoriya gasped. Now he looked concerned. “C'mon, Shinsou! You had some private time right there and you didn't ask?”
“He didn't, either, so maybe he's not interested,” Hitoshi shrugged. Midoriya frowned and Hitoshi rolled his eyes at the expression. He jammed his hands in his pockets and relaxed his shoulders so he was slumping a little. “It's not that big of a deal. So relax, dude.”
“Sti--”
“Hey!”
Hitoshi jolted at the shout. He whipped around and stared wide eyed as Bakugou jogged up to him. Todoroki was peering out the window of an expensive car that was in idle a few yards away. Midoriya gasped and muttered something about the car being the most expensive thing he'd ever seen. Hitoshi was pretty sure it was, but that was besides the point.
Bakugou stopped a few feet in front of him and stood there awkward and rigid for a few seconds. Hitoshi relaxed marginally and waited for him to say something. Bakugou cursed under his breath and one of his hands dug into his back pocket. He pulled out his phone, still cursing mildly. Hitoshi was suddenly very aware of Midoriya watching with his big eyes and shot him a glare. Midoriya flinched a little and nodded frantically, continuing his walk to the car. Bakugou fumbled with his phone for a few minutes before shoving it in Hitoshi's direction.
“C-Can I get your number?” he murmured.
Hitoshi blinked a few times in shock and Bakugou pointedly avoided eye contact. His ears were bright red, and his face was hidden by hair falling in front of it as he looked down. Hitoshi nodded and hesitantly grabbed the phone from him. Bakugou seemed to relax a lot at that and stood back, crossing his arms. Hitoshi knew he was smiling a little as he typed his number into the contact, along with his name. Bakugou's phone a few hairline cracks along the screen, and one of the ultra-indestructible cases that could survive flights of concrete stairs. Even then, there was a chip on one of the corners of the case's edge. It was strangely appropriate.
As he finished, Hitoshi read over the contact a few times to make sure it was all right. He sent a quick text to himself and handed it back to Bakugou. Bakugou seemed grateful and looked down on the message screen Hitoshi left open. He seemed to read over the message and Hitoshi guessed that's what he did as his blush got a little deeper and he chuckled. Hitoshi's phone went off and he pulled it out, opening the new messages.
Unknown: Bakugou. hot blond from aquarium w/ nice arms
“See ya,” Bakugou muttered. Hitoshi grinned and nodded. He waved as Bakugou ran back over to Todoroki's expensive car. The second Bakugou turned around, Todroki ducked his head back in the car like he had never been watching. Hitoshi snickered and shook his head in exasperation.
Hitoshi spun around and walked over to where Midoriya was pretending to have been messing with the mirrors of his car. He opened the passenger side door and sat down. Midoriya was trying really hard not to ask questions, or seem like he didn't want to know, as he put his mirrors back as they had been and started the car up. He pulled out slowly—crap, Hitoshi almost forgot Midoriya drove like an old lady when he wanted something—and Hitoshi noted Todoroki's expensive car was gone already.
“Yes I got his number, and yes I plan to call him,” Hitoshi said as Midoriya drove at a snail's pace. “Now please drive like a normal human being.”
Midoriya laughed and switched gears, picking up to a normal speed and driving out onto the main road.
“Bet I can get a date faster than you,” Midoriya said. Hitoshi scoffed and turned on the radio.
“Yeah right,” he said.
“I bet you a month's worth of chores.”
“Deal.”
X X X X X
Hitoshi ended up winning their bet, as Todoroki was leaving the country for a thing with his family for two months. He might or might not have known that ahead of time from the conversations with Bakugou, but like hell he'd tell Midoriya that. Still, Hitoshi and Bakugou did go out on their first official date. It was at the aquarium, funny enough, except they were both up to causing more mayhem now that they didn't have people to set up and there were outdoor exhibits open that time. Hitoshi fell into another fish tank, and Uraraka gave him a hell of a scolding when she heard, but he dragged Bakugou down with him. So that was nice.