Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

     It was dark… but that’s because your eyes were closed . It was warm too, maybe that’s because you laid under the sun’s view? You were sore… did you fall? And you don’t remember when you fell asleep...

     You took in a slow breath, lungs met with dusty air and the smell of crisp smoke, debris, and molten metal. Your eyes shoot open, pushing yourself up before wincing. Where were you? Last you knew you had been in A-city, heading towards the cafe to meet up with your friend Kazuo, a C-class hero known as Monocross. And then the last thing you knew…

     You groan and grab your head. God, you have a headache….

     You remember screaming, and panic… you remember gusts of air blowing violently around you… then you remember a bright flash of light coming from your right. And that was it.

     Soft locks of your hair blow gently in the breeze as you stand to your feet, you had bruises and bad cuts… but from what you can tell no fractures or broken bones. That’s a plus, too bad you can’t say the same about the rest of the city… you hope there were more survivors than just yourself. You really hope Kazuo got out safe, you’ll have to try and find him once you get out.

     One foot in front of the other, you made your way through the rubble. You didn’t have the energy to climb, so you decided to aim for one direction and take whichever path led there.

     After what seemed like hours you seemed to be getting closer to the edge of the city, the sun fell from its high peak above and was now dying the sky molten hues. The rainbow after the storm, life always goes on.

     You pause in your tracks, as you made your way through the city you had begun to notice odd foreign metal lying about. Embedded violently into the earth, still emitting a faint warmth that once was a searing heat.

     A gentle touch from your hands is placed onto the metal, fingers spread to become your entire palm. You trace the ridges of the alien material, it was nothing like you’ve seen before… how had it gotten here?

     “No time…” A hoarse voice you barely recognize gently escapes your lips. The echo a stark contrast to the ruined city’s silence. You had to hurry up and get home to treat your wounds before they got infected, you had to go see if Kazuo was ok, you had to go home…

     The parts of the mysterious metal, once few and far between, became closer and closer. You knew you were nearing the initial impact site, but you didn’t need much to cue you in.

      A large ship soon revealed itself behind the tower rubble that blocked your view previously, it was made from the same prismatic purple metal that you had been passing. The warm evening light casts a golden warmth that reflected back to your eyes in an array of dream-like hues. The ship was beautiful, and you almost had to pinch yourself to see if this was all real. Your foggy thoughts cleared, and your head finally filled with the reality around you.

     You approach the alien ship cautiously, and a soft gasp escaped your lips. Before you laid a man… no not a man. He was much too large, and only had one eye… so was he an alien? Was he the one who destroyed A-city? If he could do that much, what would he do to you? You pause, eyes trained on the being foreign to your planet. You took this moment to have a good look at him.

     His skin was charred, burns covered his skin and his limbs missing. He was obviously dead, so maybe it was safe to approach him. You take a step forward and wait, nothing. And another, still nothing.

     After deeming it safe you take steps towards the alien, after getting a closer look you gasp. You could see his skin… move. Not crawling, but it seemed like he was… repairing himself. After this discovery, you notice the subtle changes in his skin’s hues in some areas of his body. What kind of monster is he? To be able to recover from such damage that the pro hero's delt…

     “Human.” A deep, raspy voice pierces the silence rudely. Your heart is in your throat, and you let out a scream all the while stumbling back.

     “Wh-What the fuck?!” You let out, your back meeting a wall. You take a moment, staring at him. He didn’t move, he didn’t open his eyes. Your brows furrow, and you let out a shaky breath.

     “What is it… that you want?” Your eyes trail to his lips, slow-moving and chapped. “I have already lost to your finest warrior, I have nothing left to give… My regeneration is slow, and will surely fail at this rate. My fate is sealed, I have nothing to give you.”

Your heart speeds up, and you take a step closer. You feet move on their own, even though your common sense is screaming at you to stop your instincts tell you to move closer. Slowly, you fall to your knees beside him.

     “Are… are you an alien?” You ask as you bring your knees up to your chest, hoping for a sense of comfort. You don’t know why you were doing this, you have to be crazy. Talking to a dying alien, one of the aliens that destroyed the city you were in no less.

No answer came from him for a while, for a time you finally thought he passed before he interrupted your thoughts. “...Yes.”

     “Who are you?”

     “I am Boros, Captain of the Dark Matter Thieves and dominator of the universe,” Boros replied.

     “Some dominator you are…” You chuckle dryly, you saw his lips twitch up in agitation.

     “I know my defeat, do not patronize me.” He growled out.

     “Sorry, sorry… you just have to have humor in times like these I guess…” Your voice trails off, glancing over the rest of his frame.

     There was a silence between the two of you once more, thick and uncomfortable but you couldn’t bring yourself to move anymore. Your body was tired, and your eyelids heavy.

     “Why are you here with me still? I am the one that destroyed this pathetic place you humans call a… city. Champion Saitama had already bested me in a duel, and yet here you are.” Boros’s voice seemed fuller now, but his state had not grown any better than before. Could this be what he was talking about when he said his ‘regeneration’ would fail?

     “I don’t think I can move very much anymore, whatever you used on the city had an impact on me…” You paused. ‘I may as well give you company before you die.’ The sentence brushed your lips, but for some reason, the words were vile to you, left unspoken. You couldn’t understand why but… you couldn’t bring yourself to leave him here. He was a terrible alien, who took away so many lives. You should leave him to rot, you should leave him to die slowly alone.

     But you couldn’t. You weren’t like that. You weren’t like him.

     You shakily stood up, a small spark in your soul providing you with fumes to pull over a thin sheet of metal large by the alien. “I’m… going to help you, ok? So like… don’t kill me.” You reach your hands over to him as you speak, preparing your sore muscles for more physical labor. But before you could hoist the broken alien onto the thin sheet of metal his eye snaps open at your words, instantly darting over in your direction.

     You let out a startled gasp, jumping in fear and retracting your hands back to yourself. You stare into his eye, mesmerized by the vibrant colors that made up his iris. “Woah…” You mumbled under your breath, Boros glares in response.

     “What are you trying to gain from this?” Boros growls, lips pulling up into a weak snarl.

     You don’t answer, instead opting to stare dumbly back in response. “You have a pretty eye, too bad you’re kind of an asshole.” You huff, furrowing your brows.

     The alien captain seems taken aback by your comment, stunned silence.

     “Now just shut up and let me help you…”

     After much hard work you manage to get the alien onto the thin sheet of metal now’s just the task of dragging him out of the ruined city. You look around and notice how close you are to the edge of a city, and at the sight, you breathe a sigh of relief. At least you don’t have to drag him far before you could get some help.

     Wait. No- you can’t get help… he’s an alien. Not just any alien though- the alien who destroyed the entire fucking city. But you couldn’t do this alone… you had to contact someone you could trust.

     “Stay here- oh, wait…” You let out a nervous chuckle, only receiving a pointed glare and grunt from the handicapped alien.

     You go and wander around, trying your best to move rubble out of the way. You evaluate your surroundings, trying to decide the best possible route to drag Boros out of the wreckage of his ship.

     “Hey! I found some alien survivors!” A deep voice cuts through the safe silence, causing your heart to stop for what seemed like minutes, a soft gasp accidentally escaped his lips. But luckily the speaker did not seem to notice your presence.

     After hiding yourself behind rubble you peek out to see an incredibly buff black man with his back turned to you, behind him you see these weird looking aliens all tied up behind him with chain. One spots you and goes to say something but you desperately shake your head with your finger to your lips. He gets the hint, and mercifully stays quiet, his eyes trained on you before trying to look behind him.

     Following his gaze you see a tall, handsome male walking over towards them. His bright blue locks cover his expressionless features, but you don’t need to see his face to know who that is. “Amai Mask…” You whisper in awe, you would be lying if you said you didn’t have a least a bit of a crush on him. With his incredible looks, and his gentleman personality, what kind of girl wouldn’t want a guy like that? A faint blush seeped into your cheeks as you watch his movements, careful to remain hidden.

     Your awe was quickly replaced with horror, as you watch Amai slice a hand through the bound aliens. Your lungs forced air in, the air you hadn’t realized you were holding, recoiling from the alien blood that shot into your direction.

     Amai’s golden gaze is now focused in your direction, your shocked gasp alerting him to your general location. You place a quivering hand over your mouth, willing your heart to slow- fearful he may hear the beats.

     “Amai Mask! What the-?!” The black hero exclaimed, you identified him as Superalloy Darkshine, an S-Class pro hero. With muscles glistening in the sunlight… you felt a bit uncomfortable with the sheer mass of them- along with his concerning lack of clothing.

     “They did not deserve to live. They were evil.” The model moved sky blue hair away from his face, revealing cold eyes and blood that had landed itself on his cheek. “I implemented swift justice, that’s all.” Your chest tightened, and your stomach churned, in the back of your mind you noticed all the other pro heroes behind him but at that moment you felt that his golden gaze was a threat to you. That if you even breathed wrong, that if he found you, your heart would surely stop.

     You squeezed your eyes shut, and locked your hands tightly around your mouth. ‘Please don’t find me, please don’t find me, please don’t find me…’

     Amai let out a scoff, briskly turning around. You listened as his footsteps faded. With his retreating figure, you could feel the breath in your lungs once more, and you breathed a sigh of relief.

     “Sensei!” Another younger sounding voice cried. Shortly after the ship broke open not far from you, you watched as a very plain looking man in a battered and ugly looking costume stepped out. Was this Saitama? This guy seriously took down Boros? He looks so… boring.

     “An… egg…” Your brows furrow and you watch as the egg makes his way over to Demon Cyborg, yet another S-Class hero. You stay and watch as this small green floating gremlin starts yelling insults, but quickly get bored and begin to sneak back off into the ruins that were once City-A. You decide to move around all the pro heroes and make your way towards a farther, much safer exit. Maybe you could call Kazuo from a citizen’s phone to help you get Boros to your apartment…

     Eventually, you made it past the pro heroes, and into the neighboring B-city. You pull over a nice looking college student and she lends you her phone.

     “7...7...5…” You mumbled Kazuo’s numbers by heart, and press the phone to your ear.

     “Hello, Monocross speaking.” A familiar voice greets.

     “Kazuo! It’s me, (y/n)!” A smile spreads across your face, relieved to hear the comforting voice of your close friend.

     “(y/n)!! Are you ok? I couldn’t find you in the wreckage, I was so worried! Where are you? Are you in a hospital?” The C-class hero dumps question after question, concern clear in his tone.

     “No, I’m still by A-city. I need your help, it really important. I don’t have time to explain, meet me at Square-K in B city. Please use your car.” You hurriedly say, not wanting to waste the nice girl’s time any longer than you had to.

     “No- Wait-!!” You cut off his voice, and close the flip phone. After bowing and giving your gratitude to the female, you made your way over to the ‘agreed’ location. You didn’t have to wait long for him to arrive.

     Driving up in a beat up looking car, Kazuo stepped out of the car in a rush. Brows furrowed with long platinum hair a mess, Kazuo makes his way over to you and quickly embraces you. Tears well up in his eyes as he hugs you so tightly it feels like you’re having a hard time breathing. “K-Kazuo please… b-breath…” You struggle, wincing at your wounds being irritated.

     “YOU WORRIED ME YOU BITCH. WHY AREN’T YOU IN A HOSPITAL?!” Kazuo screeches, tears dramatically falling down his pale cheeks.

     "I don't have time to explain right now, I promise I'll show you everything..." Kazuo looks confused for a moment but slowly nods. At the confirmation, you take him by the hand and lead the C-Class hero over to the wreckage of City-A. Carefully maneuvering through broken metal and crumbled stone, you manage to avoid all of the lingering heroes. Eventually, you arrived at the location where the alien lord laid dormant and broken, the only thing separating his view of Boros was the rubble that surrounded the dying extraterrestrial being.

     “Now… don’t freak out, ok?” You whisper, gaze stern.

     “Ok…” He slowly replies, giving you a suspicious look.

     “You have to promise. Pinky promise.” You narrow your eyes, offering said appendage out for him to take.

     “Oh god… you’re making me promise… how bad is it?” Monocross grimaces but shakes pinkies with you nonetheless. Promise sealed by metaphorical blood, you gently lead Kazuo by the hand to Boros.

     “Boros, I’m back… with help this time. D-Don’t worry though! You can trust him!” Kazuo’s eyes widen, almost bulging out of his hide as his mouth falls agape.

     “What. The. FUCK?!” He screeches, grabbing at his hair. You hastily slap your hand over his mouth.

     “I told you to not freak out!!” You scold, narrowing your eyes at your best friend.

     “You didn’t tell me you were harboring a criminal alien!” He was still freaked out, but his voice lowered in volume nonetheless.

     “Just… help me get him to your car, please… I’m taking him to my apartment.” Eyes cast downwards, looking at the alien. He seemed to be resting, though obviously not asleep by his disapproving grunts at Kazuo’s arrival.

     “Why? We need to turn him into the hero agen-”

     “No!” You hastily yell, thoughts quickly flooding with what Amai Mask had done to the other aliens. You noticed how Kazuo seemed shocked by your outburst, and sigh. After taking a breath you look towards your best friend again. “No… they’ll kill him. I-I saw Amai Mask, slaughter all the captured aliens… I don’t want him to be killed too. I’m not a monster, to seal someone’s fate like that.”

     Your voice is soft and shaky, and you look up to Kazuo pleadingly. Kazuo stiffens, and a complex look crosses his face. “Don’t look at me like that…”

     “Pleaaaase… Zuzu…” You gave him your best puppy dog eyes, willing every cute fiber in your very being to push him into your favor.

     Kazuo groans, and slumps in defeat. “Alright, alright… just no more, please. You remind me of one of those sad animal shelter commercials.”

     With your combined efforts the two of you had managed to slide Boros as far as you could through the rubble, before picking him up with your combined efforts.

     “God! How much does this guy weigh?!” Your best friend huffs in frustration, helping you as you two finally manage to get Boros into the back seat of his small car. The large alien takes up most of the back seat, and you gently place a jacket that you found on the floorboards under his head.

     “You ok? Is there anything you need?” The question comes out as soft, but awkward. Kazuo eagerly peeks over your shoulder waiting for a response.

     A vivid, molten iris peeks up at you. He stared at you for a few moments, through you… but he broke his gaze, instead staring out at the warm hues of the evening sky. “No.”

     You sigh, shutting the door. Your gaze meets your friend’s, simply giving a shrug to his questioning look.

     The two of you slide into the car, and Kazuo begins to drive down the busy streets of City-B, overflowing with the surviving residents of the previously neighboring city. It was here that you realized how tired you were, the sun had begun to kiss the horizon… slowly sinking further, and further beneath the earthy blanket. You began to wonder if Boros was looking at it too, or if he was simply resting. But you couldn’t will yourself to move… with sleep threatening to grasp you in it’s embrace and drag you into its depths, you were in danger of going under any second. You clung to consciousness by the last few rays of the sun, you’ll sleep once Boros is situated safely in your apartment.

     Eventually, the three of you made it to your quaint apartment buildings, it was nothing special really. It was a small apartment with one bed and bath, and even though the quality of the apartment itself was quite low you managed to spruce it up and make it your own. You lived on the bottom floor, thank god, so no elevators or stairs were required in getting Boros into your room.

     With some of your last bits of strength, you and Kazuo got Boros into your apartment with the spare key Kazuo had.

     “Lay him down on my couch while I go lay out a futon for him, I’ll be right back.” You hurry off to your room, out of sight between the blonde human and the pinkette alien.

     Kazuo sighs and furrows his brows. “What’d you do to make her care about you?”

     Boros simply let out a grunt, not knowing himself with his eye closed in concentration. He tried to focus on the embers inside of him, trying to fuel that flame with pure willpower. Any sort of energy he could muster would benefit his health.

     You eventually came back, messy hair bobbing with each step you took. The two of you moved Boros onto the futon.

     “Thank you, Kazuo. I couldn’t have done this without you…” You say softly, giving your close friends a warm smile.

     “Sit down, I’ll patch you up.” Kazuo orders, sternly shoving your shoulders down.

     You let out a squeak, unable to form much resistance due to your fatigue. You sit there as quietly as you can, as your best friend wipes down your wounds with an alcohol pad. With each cut cleaned you hiss, lips formed in a pout.

     “Oh suck it up, you criminal.” He jokes, giving you a smirk. There was a comfortable moment between you two, welcoming and relaxing. “(y/n)...” Kazuo breaks the silence, and you glance over at him.

     “Yeah?” You question, watching his face contort in concentration.

     “Why did you take him in? He’s an alien, he hurt you, he destroyed A-city… why are you trying to protect him?” Kazuo pauses his actions, giving you a stern but gentle and concerned look. You couldn’t bear to return his gaze, guilt plagued your heart… but so did this unknown feeling. Something you couldn’t describe, but your gut told you to trust that feeling so you did.

     “I… don’t know. I know he’s a terrible person but, when I saw him- on the ground dying surrounded by the broken piece of his ship… I don’t know what came over me but my gut told me to. And my gut’s never wrong, Kazuo…” You mutter, eyes downcast to the suddenly fascinating carpet of your apartment.

     There’s a pause, and then a sigh. “Ok… I trust you. But the first sign of trouble, and I have no choice but to contact HQ… you know that right?”

     You look up at him, a bright smile on your face. “Yes! I promise I won’t let you down!”

     Kazuo lets out another sad sigh, looking away from you. “Stop smiling so brightly, you make me have to look away or else I’ll go blind.”

     You knew Katsuo trusted you, but he obviously didn’t trust Boros. After patching you up and ensuring there was no further damage done to your body, he began to worry about Boros staying. Even more so about you and Boros sleeping in the same room.

     “But what if he tries to hurt you?” Katsuo groaned from the kitchen, spooning rice out of its cooker and into 2 bowls.

     “I don’t think he could hurt a fly in the state he’s in…” You watch as he grabs a ladle and pours the autumn soup over the rice, the sweet aroma of the soup’s ingredients makes your mouth water.

     Shaking his head similar to how a mother would Kazuo places the two bowls in front of you. “You can feed him, I don’t like him…” The blonde pouts, crossing his arms and huffing.

     You simply chuckle at his actions and feel a smile spreading across your face. “I know, and it’s perfectly understandable. I can’t thank you enough for helping me with my selfish request… I promise I’ll make it up to you! But for now you should go home, it’s getting pretty late and you have patrol tomorrow right?” You stand up to grab yours and Boros’s dinners, but instead, you’re met with a hug from Kazuo.

     “Call me if you need anything, alright? And please report anything if he starts to cause trouble, I don’t want you getting hurt because you’re too nice…” The hero releases you from his embrace and goes towards the door. “I’ll be stopping by after patrol tomorrow to check on you, get plenty of rest~!”

     Kazuo and you bid yet another farewell, and once the door was shut tightly and locked you finally went to grab the two bowls he had made. Steam wafted from the soup and rice, causing you to give a happy hum at the smell. Making your way into the bedroom you’re not surprised to see Boros in the same spot you left him in. “Hey, I got dinner. I hope you aliens eat soup and rice…”

     Boros gently opens his eye and watches as you take a seat next to him, placing the two bowls in between you two. “What is that?” The cyclops narrows his eye in suspicion. “Is it poisoned?”

     “What? No, of course not. Kazuo made it for us! It’s really good too…” You scoop up the food with the utensil, gently blowing on the food to cool it off before offering it to Boros. “Say ‘ahhhh’”

     “No, I refuse. I will not be treated like a- MMF!” Seeing the opportunity you quickly forced the food into Boros’s mouth, with said alien almost choking out of surprise. You two stare at each other, a showdown, a display of dominance.

     You narrow your eyes at Boros, a stern-looking crossing your face. “Eat.”

     He doesn’t comply at first, glaring right back at you with the same fire as before, but eventually, he slowly begins to chew, breaking eye contact. Seeing this you smile brightly.

     “It’s good, right? Kazuo’s cooking is the best!” Chirping happily you spoon some of your own food into your mouth.

     “It is acceptable… for humans.” You suppose that’s the closest thing you’re going to get to a compliment… was he capable of giving out compliments? Did he know what one was?

     “So… what planet are you from? Is it pretty? Oh-oh-oh, do you guys have ice cream? Or do you have an alien equivalent?” You two were now halfway through your respective bowls, so you decided to finally ask him some questions. If he was going to be staying here you might as well get to know him, right?

     Boros scoffed, swallowing down the food that was in his mouth. “You are very nosy for a human, why do you wish to know so much about me?”

     “Well don’t I have the right? I mean, you are staying in my home… And you’re eating my food… And I did save your life… “ You list off, you watch as his eye twitches slightly in annoyance.

     “I didn’t ask to be saved- MMF!” You angrily shove more food in his mouth.

     “Just tell me already, how hard is it to tell me if you guys have alien ice cream?” Pouty and grumbling, you eat the last bite of your own meal.

     “STOP DOING THAT!” The alien hissed, causing you to chuckle at his expense.

     “So? Do you?”

     Boros glares at you for a moment before sighing in an exhaustive manner. “I don’t even know what this ‘ice cream’ is.”

     Your eyes light up, the corners of your lips stretching up into a smile. “I can show you! Just finish your food here first~!”

     After you finished feeding him you stack up your bowls, rushing them into the kitchen sink before grabbing a carton of Neapolitan ice cream and 2 more spoons, you move your way into the room once more happily showing him the frozen goodness. “I don’t know which flavor you like but we have strawberry, chocolate, and vanilla… Or you could try all three!”

     “...What is a strawberry?” At the question, you scoop up some of the pink sugary delight and offer it to him. He closes his mouth around it, and on his face blooms a look of confusion. “It is… odd… why is it so cold?”

     “Because it’s frozen milk and ice and… stuff… Here, try vanilla!” You do the same as before but instead with white ice cream. There’s nothing wrong with the classics, after all, all ice cream is beautiful in its own way.

     Boros tries the vanilla flavor and hums. “Interesting… and what is the third? Chocklit?”

     “Chocolate, and it’s probably a human favorite. Ice cream, in general, is very popular among humans, it’s basically a staple for us. That, along with instant ramen and watermelon juice.” You happily feed him the final flavor, he nods.

     “Humans have an amusing culture, I suppose it is somewhat respectable… but only for the fact it had birthed the greatest warrior I have ever faced.” You stare at him a moment, feeding him another spoonful of strawberry ice cream per his request.

     “Can you… tell me about yourself? How did you get like this? Is Saitama that bald guy I saw? Why did you come to earth in the first place?” You question, quietly eating a bit of the chocolate ice cream.

     Boros doesn’t reply for a while before he sighs. “My species was born on a planet with harsh climates, forcing us to adapt into a powerful race. I stood out among my kin, having adept physical prowess and regeneration. But I grew too strong and was plagued by an overwhelming sense of boredom. Then one day a seer had told me I would find my match on a distant planet… one that would rekindle my will for battle. The prophecy was true, but Saitama was too strong for me. I am lucky to have survived his devastating blows, I am also surprised to know you humans do not know of him…”

     You furrow your brows. If Boros was as strong as you thought, this Saitama guy must be on a whole ‘nother level… you began to wonder if any of the S-Class heroes could’ve defeated Boros if it wasn’t for Saitama. “Do you still wish to destroy the Earth?” The question was hesitant from your lips, your dainty hands closing the lid to the ice cream.

     “No.” You look up, slightly surprised at his answer. “I have no need nor any desire. All I crave is to get stronger…”

     “So while you’re… training… you’ll be staying here? You can’t cause trouble if you do, or else I’ll have to tell the hero agency.” You warn, watching as he scoffs.

     “I do not care about this ‘hero agency’, none can compare to what I have faced anyways.” His pride was overwhelming… even though…

     “Even though you got your ass kicked, you’re still so full of yourself.” You blatantly said, giving him a jovial look. Your giggles where cut off by a growl, causing you to jump back laughing out of shock but still finding his expression hilarious. “AHH! SO MAD!” You managed to choke out.

     “If I wasn’t in such a state you would not be laughing in the first place…” He hisses, eye narrowing in anger and embarrassment.

     “Aww, don’t be that was Boros… In order to get stronger, you have to accept that you were weak, to begin with! Well… compared to this Saitama guy anyways.” Your honesty was endearing, and Boros simply let out a grunt.

     “I won’t be weak for long. I will first destroy Saitama, then I will find a way to get off this miserable excuse of a planet.”

     “Whatever you say, captain, you should rest though… I’m sure you must be tired- because I sure as hell am.” You stood from your position, going into the kitchen for a few short moments to put the ice cream back into its rightful place and returning to Boros. “I would say to not kill me while I slept, but it’s not like you can move anyways… when will your limbs grow back anyways?” The question comes out light, for a seemingly grave topic.

     “If you continue to provide me with nutrients as you are now, a week. I would usually be able to recover in seconds but most of my energy was spent in battle, and with the wide array of damages I require to spread my energy evenly to assure a complete recovery.” Boros explains in detail, his eye trained on the ceiling in absent thought.

     You stare at him dumbly. “You sure do talk a lot…” A hum vibrates through your throat as you place your own futon a fair distance away from Boros. “But that’s fine though, Kazuo can’t be here all the time to keep me company. So you have to take his place ok?”

     You’re met with a displeased grunt come from the alien captain beside you, simply giggling in response to his displeasure. But you had a feeling he doesn’t completely hate you. “Goodnight roomie~!”

     You close your eyes, breathe quickly slowing to a relaxed state. Your eyelids shutting without complaint, and your muscles becoming lax. Sleep was quick to engulf you, the blankets wrapped around you providing comfort and warmth. Along the horizon of unconsciousness, you could’ve sworn you heard a quiet but gruff ‘goodnight’ in response… but you were surely dreaming it.

Chapter Text

Some time has passed since you’ve taken in the foreign fugitive, he’s made a remarkable recovery and soon enough he’ll be mobile once more, but not only that his skin has nearly regained full pigmentation. The burns that once made charcoal of his flesh, mauling it like a savage beast, now only a faint whisper on a canvas of violet hues. Boros’s recovery might not have been possible if it weren’t for your merciful boss, who had given you 2 weeks of paid leave since you got caught up in the devastating and traumatic experience that was city-a’s destruction.

Condiments that reside in the door of your refrigerator clink together as you yank the handle. Eyes scanning the shelves seeing nothing entirely too enticing... except maybe that bag of shredded cheese- NO. You will not go down that path again, you’ve come too far…

“Boros! I’m going to the store! Do you want anything while I’m out?” You discard the offending but enticing shredded dairy product into the trash where it belonged. Last time you had given into your lazy cravings you couldn’t shit for a week. You open the bedroom door, and waltz in with your phone already out and typing in your list for the week.

“Bring me more ice cream. The pink one, the berry of straws.”

“Strawberry, Boros. Straw. Berry. One word… and is that it?” You wrote down his request, all the while reaching blindly for the coat in your closet.

“That will be all. You have my permission to decide on the rest of our meals since you are more familiar with it than I.” The cyclops closes his eye, a signal that he was finished with communing with you.

“Thank you for granting me the pleasure, your highness.” With a roll of your eyes and tone heavy in sarcasm, you bid Boros a final farewell before exiting the apartment, making sure the door is locked securely behind you.

You make your way through the streets of B-City, such destruction you awoke to only days ago was unseen here. Almost as if it never happened... but you knew this not to be true. Many still grieve over the loss of the numerous souls, the scars will never truly heal and the ache will never fully heal. But life always moves on, with or without you. In a way you find this comforting, it’s hard to explain but it’s nice to know that such darkness is never truly forever… even when it seems like it is.

Eventually, you arrive at your local food market, this place usually has a lot of sales so you tend to come here often. You enter the store, very grateful you decided to bring your jacket as you feel the conditioned air brush against your face. There’s a stack of hand baskets by the door you enter, and since you’re not going to be getting too much considering you’re only buying for the week (and because you have no mode of transportation other than walking) you choose the handbasket over a cart.

The isles are freshly stocked with food, and there’s a lot of good sales going on this week. And even though you’re the type of person to buy something only for the deal, your wallet begs you not to. But there’s no way in hell you’re passing on getting your favorite box of cookies for 50% off, your wallet can go fuck itself if it thinks it can dictate your sweet tooth.

Eventually, you made your way into the ethnics isle, which contained the best creation man had ever made, besides instant ramen and dango of course. “Maybe we should have pasta tonight…” You mumble to yourself, looking at the many variations of noodles before you. “Do aliens eat pasta? Is there an alien version of pasta?” You rub your chin in concentration, you’ll have to ask him about all the different kinds of food he ate before getting to earth… and if the earth was better, which it obviously is. You decide to simply go for spaghetti since it was so easy to make. But the noodles were at the very top, and you weren’t very tall. You tried jumping, climbing on a shelf, summoning the Jedi inside of you to use the force and will the box down into your waiting hands... but, not to your surprise, it didn’t work. You glare at the offending box of noodles, mocking you… teasing you… you swore to yourself that once you got your hands on that box you’d-

“Eh?” You watch as a much larger person than yourself grabs the box easily, and lowers it to your eye level, interrupting your dark and evil thoughts.

“Here…” A casual voice spoke from behind you, and you gratefully accepted the offending box of spaghetti.

“Thank you so mu-CH!!!” You begin to thank him while turning but the last word ending in a small screech. The bad fashion sense… the bad posture… the plain looking face… THE BALD HEAD!! This guy was Saitama, the same Saitama that almost killed Boros!!

“Eh? What’s wrong with you lady? You’re freaking me out…” Saitama’s face contorted in confusion, scratching his cheek as he looked at you as if you were a weirdo.

Though in his defense you probably did look like a weirdo… freaking out over what to seem seemed to be nothing. “S-Sorry, I just… uh… got surprised when I saw you so close…” You lied, forcing yourself to relax to try and pull it over on him. It seemed to work because his expression relaxed, returning to his resting egg face.

“Oh, sorry. Well, you’re welcome, by the way.” He turns to leave but you’re quick to stop him.

“W-wait, I’m sorry I was rude earlier but you’re a hero right?” You really hoped he was a hero because if he wasn’t then he might think you’re really crazy… but you’ve probably already got that covered.

“Hm? Oh, yeah. Just for fun, though.” WHAT?! This guy beat Boros, and being a hero is just a HOBBY for him?

“I thought so! I recognized you for all the work you’ve done…” You didn’t recognize him at all. “And I just wanted to say thank you! What’s your name?”

“Oh…” He looked surprised, and you could’ve sworn you saw a light pink dusting his cheeks. “My name’s Saitama.”

“Well Saitama, I appreciate all the work you’ve done to help keep our cities safe! My name’s (y/n)! Maybe we could go and-” Your question was interrupted by a familiar voice calling out to Saitama. Well, he didn’t call Saitama exactly, but you could tell it was directed towards the bald man in front of you by the look on his face.

“Sensei! The association just contacted us, they said there was a monster running rampant on the streets. They’re having a difficult time eliminating it due to its speed.” That was Demon Cyborg… but why did he call him sensei? Was he Saitama’s student? The more you think about it the more it made sense... of course Saitama would have a disciple if he knew what the bald man was capable of… actually, now that you think about it... how come more people didn’t know about Saitama?

“Oh… sorry to leave so soon, see you around.” You wave Saitama farewell, you were hoping to get to know him better. Maybe convince him when the time came to not kill Boros when the alien would eventually go to face him.

You pause, realizing your very thoughts... Why were you so adamant about Boros staying alive?

Before the question could linger, it was quickly forgotten with an abrupt excuse me from a woman behind you. With a quick apology, you go and finish the rest of your shopping, making sure to grab an entire tub of strawberry ice cream to appease the violet-skinned alien as well as a few packs of melonpan.

The sun shone brightly above you, the warmth making your skin tingle pleasingly. It was moments like these where you enjoyed taking your time, but you really couldn’t unless you wanted the ice cream to melt… maybe once Boros got his limbs back he’d go for a walk with you? You could show him all sorts of earth stuff… like arcades, or… trees… Well, there wasn’t a lot of cool stuff per say. At least not compared to what he’s probably seen, but it’s ok because this is the best that earth’s got and since he’s stuck on here he’ll have to just learn to like it.

Your thoughts of time spent with Boros were violently interrupted by the sound of screaming, you gaze snapped forward to see a large beast. And it looked back. Your heart stops, your breath remains hidden in your lungs. You can’t move, you’re a deer caught in headlights. Your instincts are yelling, screaming for you to run- run away, run as far as you can but your feet are glued into place. Ah… so this was the beast Demon Cyborg had been talking about...

The beast, rows and rows of rotating razor-sharp teeth , it makes a mad dash towards you, it’s body's so mutilated it’s making you sick to your stomach , it’s moving closer towards you at such a blinding rate there’s no way you would be able to outrun it, is this how you die? What about your family? What about your friends? What about Kazuo? What about Boros? You can’t die now- you don’t want to die!!

You don’t see what happens, one moment you see your life flash before your eyes- the last-ditch attempt, a desperate one, of your brain trying to will your body to move- and then it’s not there. And in its place sickly green blood splattered across the concrete, some on you. Oh god, you’re going to barf… but how did it die? Your eyes break from the place the beast once was and fell onto the figure of a familiar bald man.

“Hey? Are you ok?” Saitama turns to look at you, he’s in the same clothing you saw when he came out from Boros’s ship. It must be his hero costume… without him getting here at that moment….

Tears well in your eyes, startling the hero. “S-S-Saitama… thank you, so m-much…” Your words are choked out of your throat, a small and poorly suppressed sob seeping out.

“H-Hey! Don’t cry… it’s alright now…” The poor guy didn’t know how to comfort people, just way too awkward. And though, yes, you had been scared shitless this wasn’t the only reason why you had been sobbing like a little child.

All your suppressed feelings came crashing out at one time, the bottle inside your chest finally overflowing and escaping through your eyes. Stress from life, stress from A-city’s destruction, stress from nearly dying… it was all too much at the moment so you cried. In response to your tears, Saitama hesitantly walked up to you and patted your back.

You clutch the bags you held tighter, you wanted to jump at Saitama, to hug him for any sense of comfort, but you had to get a hold of yourself. Eventually, your tears died down, and your chest felt lighter. “S-Sorry for breaking down like that… how embarrassing…” You mumble, using the sleeve of your jacket to wipe your cheeks.

“It’s fine. It was a really ugly looking monster after all.” He tried to joke, giving you a half-hearted smile.

Chuckling quietly you nod your head in agreement. “Yeah, it was pretty ugly. Imagine how hard it is for that thing to find a date. Its bad personality doesn’t help…”

Saitama laughs as well, the sound pleasant to your ears. “Hey, do you need me to walk you home?”

You pause a moment, looking at Saitama for a moment and considering your options. “Yeah…” you send Saitama a warm smile, who seems to fidget from the warmth “...I’d really appreciate that.”

The two of your walk in the direction of your apartment, apparently Saitama lived in Z-city so your house was actually in his way. The two of you talked about a lot of mundane things, and it was quite refreshing. Just talking to a (not so) normal guy about normal things in this (not so) normal world. It’s hard to imagine that such a chill guy was able to kick the shit out of Boros, and came out virtually unharmed. In fact, it seemed that the only real damage done was to his clothes. You began to wonder what sort of training this guy had gone through to get so strong. Maybe some demon or God granted his wish for unlimited power in exchange for his first born? Or maybe he was just born with it… maybe it was Maybelline? You’d have to ask him sometime.

The sun was lowered in the sky by the time you arrived at your apartment building and the two of your exchanged phone numbers. “Thank you again, Saitama, for saving me. I don’t know how I could ever pay you back…”

“Don’t mention it, I only do this sort of thing for fun.” Saitama shrugged, rubbing the back of his neck.

“Well your ‘hobby’ saved my life, so don’t try to brush off my gratitude. The result stays the same. Maybe I’ll treat you to ramen sometime!” You laugh out, getting an eggy smile in response.

The two of you say goodbye, and you watch as he walks down the sidewalk towards Z-city. What a cool guy.
You enter your apartment, still very thankful it was on the first floor, and carry the bags to the kitchen and begin putting things away. Too tired to cook you fix you and Boros some sandwiches, aka fixing yourself one and Boros 6. It turns out since he’s both a rather large organism going through a strenuous recovery process, the alien has a rather large appetite. But you can’t find it in yourself to mind, he can’t help it. It must be nice though… to eat so much food and never get fat… Putting your envy aside you take the plate full of sandwiches and enter you and Boros’s shared bedroom.

“You took an absurd amount of time.” Boros huffed, narrowing his eye at you as you sat down beside him.

“Sorry, a monster attacked me and…” Should you tell him Saitama saved you? No… you shouldn’t. You’ll cross that bridge when you get to it. “...and a hero saved me. I forgot who he was.”

You bite into your own sandwich and feed the alien one of his own pieces. “I… am glad you didn’t die.” You were surprised by Boros’s own form of consolation but appreciated the gesture nonetheless.

“I am too, I mean- who else would take care of my little alien without me here?” You coo, pouting your lips.

“DO NOT PATRONIZE ME, WOMAN,” Boros growls out.

Laughter echoes through the otherwise quiet room, a smile spreading across your face as you watch Boros angrily eat the rest of his sandwich.

The sun rose the next morning as it always does, and the morning after, and then the morning after that. Before you knew it more time has passed, and you awake rays of light peeking through the blinds of your small bedroom. Your eyes remain shut, simply enjoying the warmth of your blankets and almost being lulled back into slumber by the soft breaths of the alien asleep beside you. You wish you could marry your bed, then no one would be able to part the two of you. But you knew you had to get up eventually, and by eventually you meant soon due to the rumbling in your stomach.

Boros had, over the days, made a steady recovery, with nothing interesting happening besides the fact that Boros now has all his limbs. His energy is nowhere near to his prime, but at least now he can move.
Begrudgingly you rise to your feet with what seemed to be every once of strength you had. A few stretches, and some screams later, you thought yourself ready to face the day. Boros let out a small snore from below you. “Oi. Boros. Wake up.” You kick the giant lying in his own futon, with every point of contact he lets out a tired grunt.

“Leave me be,” Boros grumbled, and it looked like he was about to fall back into the depths of sleep.
“I said wake up! Don’t brush me off!” You huff, continuing to kick him before he sat up with a grumpy look on his face.
“Cease, woman. I’m up already.” Boros stretched where he sat before looking up at you with an amber eye. “Cook me food.”

You could’ve sworn you popped a vein just then. “Oi, you’re not crippled anymore, get up and help me cook.” You grab onto Boros’s hands which had been larger than yours by a large margin, and you begin to try and pull Boros to standing position, but he remains stationary all the while giving you a blank look. “Didn’t you hear me? Get up you lazy bum! Freeloader! Couch potato! C’mon and help me cook before I kick your butt!” You’re giving it your all, but Boros doesn’t move.

To your surprise, in response to your weak efforts, Boros lets out a chuckle of amusement. “Watching you struggle is very entertaining, the thought of you thinking you could possibly harm me only adds to it. But I will humor you as well, teach me how to cook those... pancakes, as you called them.” The pinkette stands on his own accord, and even though he complied with your demands you were still peeved. You didn’t enjoy feeling so powerless. So with a recovering ego, you turn on your heels with a huff and tell him to ‘hurry up or else’.

Once your new ‘student’ entered the kitchen you brought out two aprons. You had gotten Boros some clothes online, some that would fit his ridiculously sized frame- this was only after you looked through 50 different clothes stores to find none that could possibly fit him. But you’ll be damned if he ruins them, you paid good money for them.

“Here, put this on!” You chirp, handing a frilly pink apron to Boros.

He nods, unaffected by the gender stereotypes of humans and puts on the apron. You have to admit…

“Aww, you look so cute~!” You gush, cooing as a wide smile makes its way onto your lips.

“What? I am not cute! I am a warrior!” Boros growls, his cheeks growing a slightly darker shade of violet.

“Yes, yes! You are a warrior~! But a CUTE warrior who cooks pancakes~!” You giggle, grabbing all the materials you need as Boros slightly fumes on the sidelines.

“Why do I put up with you? You insufferable worm-”

“Shh! Listen very closely, Boros. First, you take 2 cups of powder of the pancake mix.” You demonstrate both the box and the and the measuring cup before dumping the powder into the bowl. “Then, you get 2 eggs and a cup of milk!” Boros watches carefully as you crack the eggs and pour in the milk. “And finally, add some vanilla extract-”

“What about strawberry?” Boros interrupts, stopping you just before you add in the vanilla.

“Strawberry extract? I don’t have that…” You watch as Boros’s face is washed over with a slightly disappointed look, but you quickly go to recover. You can’t just let him down like that! He looks like a kicked puppy! “B-But we can add some strawberry syrup and pieces of strawberry on top of the pancakes!”

Boros’s face lights up, causing you to swoon over how adorable he is. “Ahhh! Don’t look at me like that… you’ll make my heart melt~!” You mumble, looking away from Boros’s face as you add in the vanilla extract.

Boros’s face contorted in confusion. “Will you die?”

“N-No, it’s just a saying humans use. It’s just metaphors we use to describe how we feel.” You try to explain, letting Boros watch as you mix the ingredients together.

“I see, humans are odd. Why do you not just say how you feel in a straightforward manner? It would clear up much confusion.” You give out a slight laugh in response, Boros naivety to human culture reminded you of a child. A child who could destroy the planet but it was still pretty cute.

“Because humans are weird, and we always try to impress one another and seem perfect.” Boros scoffed.

“You beings are far from such, it seems like all but one are pathetically weak.”

“Geez, you’re a really blunt guy…”

After mixing in the batter and heating up the stove you pulled out a pan and coated the bottom with butter. “So now all that’s left is to cook it! And if you’re a pro like me you can do a whole bunch of cool things! Here, watch…” Boros watches closely as you put the pancake batter into an icing tube. You proceed to draw a UFO on the pan, giggling slightly. “And then when you see some bubbles, you know it’s finished cooking on the side that's face down. With a bit a practice you can just flip it with a pan! Watch!” You grab the handle and shake the pancake back and forth to make sure that it’s not sticking to the bottom. Then with the utmost precision, you throw the pancake into the air and it lands perfectly back into place. “Tadaaaa~!”

Boros scoffs. “That’s certainly not very impressive.”

“WHAT?! It took me a while to get that down, be nicer!” You screech, hitting him with the spatula. “I’d like to see you try!”

Boros gladly took the challenge, as you had expected. You had set him up with a freshly buttered pan and a simple circle shape for the pancake. “All right, go ahead~ show me how it’s done.” Your tone was drenched in sarcasm as you watch him stare at the pancake for moments.

Boros was a fast learner, retained information very well (despite the obvious fact he still forgot some human terms) and remembered your advice when flipping pancakes. The technique was perfect but when he tried to flip the pancake into the air…

You burst out laughing, tears threatening to escape your eyes and roll down your cheeks. Boros had accidentally used too much strength when trying to flip the pancake, which now meant it had it the ceiling. Oh but that wasn’t it, no no no it was something far better. You laughed when it hit the ceiling, yes, but you began crying when it fell and landed directly onto the terribly fearsome dominator of the universe.

Boros was scowling at you as you tried your best to clean the pancake mix out of his hair with a rag (still laughing might I add), he clutched the spatula so tightly it had bent. “Again.”

“Eh? But you-” you paused a moment, letting out a few more laughs as you tried to regain your breath “-you already lost the bet Boros~.”

“I will not be defeated so easily, I wish to try again.” You stare at him for a few moments, and force yourself to look away as another fit of giggles wracks through your chest and up your throat.

“Sorry sorry… I just can’t take you seriously when you’re covered in pancake batter…” You coughed, finally regaining your composure before pouring more batter into the pan.

Needless to say, the alien captain was really bad at flipping pancakes, you almost felt bad for him.

Almost.

In reality, you probably cried a little every time the pancake hit the roof, or it didn’t go high enough. The joy you found in his failure royally pissed him off though, you had a feeling he was inching closer and closer to punching you. But once he got it, after 14 tries, you cheered for him.

“Boros!! You did it!! I’m so proud!” You clapped, a wide smile forming on your face.

The foreigner nodded. “Yes, the task was a tad more difficult than I had imagined. I congratulate you on impeccable skill in the art of pancakes.” This guy sure does take a lot of things seriously, doesn’t he?

Needless to say, it had taken a while to cook breakfast, and just as long to clean up after. There was so much pancake batter on the ceiling it wasn’t even funny, on the bright side you had a 7’11” cyclops to help you reach where you couldn’t.

Now that you think about it having Boros here was really helpful, you weren’t lonely, you had help cooking and cleaning, and you didn’t have to worry about any intruders coming in to steal your stuff!

Later on in the day, you find yourselves resting on the couch with your legs resting on top of his due to his size. Boros had been browsing through the channels for a while now with an intent look on his face. “There is so much human culture I must learn, it is remarkable that such a simple species could have a wide array of cultural advancement.”

“What was it like back at your home planet?” You questioned, looking up from the manga you were reading.

“We were an honorable race of warriors, none dared to face us. The environmental harshness of our mother planet had given our race an ‘every man for themself’ mentality, as you humans would put it.” Boros explained.

“I mean like- did you have any festivals or parties? Y’know like celebrations?”

Boros shook his head. “No, not usually.”

“That’s unacceptable, you’re missing out on so much! Like Halloween! OR CHRISTMAS!” Your voice elevated, manga left forgotten on your lap. “We have to throw you a birthday party… it’ll be a small one since you're kind of a loser.”

“What are you implying?” Boros growled eye narrowed at you in accusation.

“You literally have no friends except for me and Kazuo. And even then Kazuo still doesn’t trust you, you need to start being friendlier or else you’re going to be lonely your whole time on Earth.” A finger is pointed in an accusing way towards the alien, giving him a judgemental look.

Said alien scoffed, and rolled his eye. “Like I desire any sort of relationship with you filthy worms.”

“OI! Watch what you say, you’re living in MY house. Best respect me or else I’ll seriously kick your ass.” You growl.

“Ha. As if you could do any harm- GHH!!” Boros’s sentence was cut short by your sandal smacking him in the middle of the face with scary marksmanship.

“Watch your tone or it won’t just be just one!!”

Chapter Text

“And that’s how you make omelets!” You chirp, happily sliding the last ham and cheese omelet onto the plate you had in hand waiting for the delicious breakfast item.

Boros watches you carefully from the seat at the table, watching as you squirt a light amount of ketchup onto your egg dish. “Why are you putting the tomato paste on your eggs? It is an odd combination, don’t you think?”

“It’s pretty good actually, it’s not for everyone but I like it…” You cut off a small piece of your breakfast, watching as the golden strands of heaven stretch from its cover. You pop the piece into your mouth, groaning happily at the delicious tastes. You pass Boros the bottle of ketchup, giving him a childish grin. “You should try it too!”

“Hmm…” Boros gently applies the red condiment onto his omelet as well, being extra careful to not underestimate his strength as he usually does. The alien copies your actions from before and eats the piece of eggy heaven. After a moment of silence, and an expectant look from you, Boros nods his head in approval. “Yes, this is most acceptable.”

From your time spent with Boros, you’ve begun to notice a lot of qualities about Boros. He likes food and isn’t scared to try new things, which isn’t that surprising once you remember he’s an intergalactic space pirate who probably has had a number of dishes he must’ve been exposed to on his travels through the universe. He’s also not as snobby as you thought him to be, shown by his willingness to help you clean despite his obvious belief in his superiority to ‘weak human worms’. And finally, and most importantly, he loves sweets. If he could live off of sugar he would, but his favorite is anything with strawberries in it. You don’t know how he can eat so many strawberries. Hell, even now as you eat your breakfast you watch as he pops in a few strawberries from a bowl he has besides the 3 omelets you had made for him.

A grin teases the corners of your mouth, the more you thought of it Boros wasn’t actually that scary either. Sure he tried to play off of the whole ‘big bad alien’ facade, but you knew the truth. And the truth was exposed every time you came back home with more packs of his favorite small red fruit.

A knock on your door interrupted your thought, causing your gaze to fall onto the front door behind you. “Stay here for a sec Boros, try to stay out of sight.” Receiving a nod from the alien, who had shifted to a different side of the table out of view from the door, you get up and peep through the door’s peephole. A soft gasp escapes your lips and you yank the door open.

“Kazuo! What’re you doing here so early in the morning?” You smile brightly, looking over at the blonde before you, currently clothed in his hero outfit.

Monocross rubbed the back of his neck, flashing you a wide grin. “I just wanted to stop by to see how everything was going since I haven’t been able to see my best friend and her alien for a bit. I have to go on patrol soon, but I was wondering if we can hang for a bit?”

A laugh escapes your throat as you pull in the C-class, shutting the door behind him. “You know you don’t even have to ask to hang out with me! Boros and I are eating breakfast, I can try to make him give up an omelet but he’s pretty protective of his food…”

Boros watches from his seat at a table and narrows his eye at Kazuo. “I am not giving away my food.” The alien grunts, stuffing a big piece of omelet into his mouth for emphasis.

“Boros-” You begin, but you’re quickly cut off by Kazuo’s chuckle and your gaze is drawn back over to him.

“Don’t worry about it, I already ate anyways so I’m pretty full. Not to mention I came at such a random time.”

You and your alien roommate finish your breakfasts not long after Kazuo arrives, the company of two people you enjoyed spending your time with putting you in a good mood as well.

“And so then the robber tried to actually jump over to the next building, and he might have been able to do it if he wasn’t carrying that big bag full of junk! So he ended up crashing down into the dumpster by the animal shelter! You can only imagine what was in there!” The two of you laugh at his hero stories, they weren’t really intense but he’s certainly seen some interesting things.

Boros wasn’t very talkative around Kazuo, he instead opted to listen quietly most of the time with the occasional question. He often questioned Kazuo on his work and any ‘human traditions’ that he may mention in his stories. You assume by doing this Boros is trying to either start getting used to Earth culture, but you have an underlying feeling it’s somehow about Saitama- Saitama!

“Ah! Wait!” Your dawn of realization and remembrance catch the attention at the two sitting with you at the table, who spare you questioning glances. “Oh- sorry, I just remembered something important!” You whip out your phone and type away on the screen.

“Huh? Who are you talking to?” Kazuo questions trying to take a peek at your screen but you tactically lean away from him, eyes still glued to your device.

“Remember the monster I told you about? And how a hero saved me?”

“Yeah? What about it?” Blonde eyebrows furrow as the hero who wore said eyebrows leaned his head against his hand, weight resting on the table.

“Well since he saved my life I offered to treat him to ramen for lunch!” You close your phone and met with a sly look from a certain monochrome hero.

“Is it a… date?” A shit eating grin spreads on Kazuo’s face, and a soft pink dusting your cheeks at the accusation.

“Oh, course not! It’s just a friendly outing in thanks for saving my life! And it’s completely normal to do so!” You huff, crossing your arms.

“What is a date?” You and Kazuo’s playful argument is interrupted, both of you quickly turning to look at a confused alien. A nervous chuckle bubbles up from your throat, and you gently rub the back of your neck.

“Oh, uh… when two people like each other or are interested in each other they do stuff together. It’s basically… uh…” You pause for a moment, trying to think of a word Boros might understand or relate to. “...courting?” You look over to the violet being, noticing how the word seemed to click with him.
“So this hero is trying to court you?” An unreadable look crosses Boros’s face, you could’ve sworn his expression had gotten a tad darker… but it had to be your imagination. You quickly wave your hands in defense and shake your head rapidly.

“No no no! Again, not like that! I’m giving him a gift for saving me!” You stress, so fed up with the both of them.

“I was just teasing you! Do I know him?” Your heart skips a beat for a moment, but you quickly recover shaking your head.

“No, no, he’s not really well known! But maybe I can introduce you sometime!” Why the fuck would you say that? “But he’s pretty shy so I don’t think he’d be very willing…” Your bullshit is showing.

You couldn’t see his blue eyes from behind his mask, but you were almost 100% sure he was giving you an ‘I can smell your bullshit’ look. But thankfully he drops it with a wave of his hand. “Right, right, anyways- I have to go. I’ll be pretty busy the next few days because I’ll be volunteering at a beach clean up. I’ll see you around!” Monocross stands, and you watch as his cape flutters with the wind that rushes through as he opens the door.

Soon only you and Boros are left alone, simply watching TV again. You groan in boredom, rolling off the couch and falling to the floor with a thud. “I’m bored… there’s nothing good on…” Your voice is muffled by the floor, you can’t find it in yourself to move from this position.

“Then do something,” Boros says calmly, eye analyzing the screen before him as he flips through the channels.

“Hmm…” You pull your phone out of your pocket, reading the messages you have sent Saitama with a sigh.


You: Hey Saitama! It’s (y/n)! I was wondering if you were free for lunch?

You: If you can’t that’s ok, you’re probably busy with your hero work.


You type away another message, nails gently tapping against the screen as the pads of your fingers write out another message.

You: Maybe some other time then?

Looking at the clock it was way past lunch time, you should probably start thinking of dinner or something.

“Boros, what do you want for dinner?” You roll over onto your back and see that Boros finally meets your eyes with his.

“I am not sure. I am still not familiar with many of your dishes yet, though…” Boros trails off, gaze hesitantly darting back to the television. “...though, I did see this dish that I wish to try. I saw it on your media device. I believe it was called ‘Dango’. It looked rather tasty.”

You chuckle and shake your head. “Boros that’s a desert, but I guess I can still buy you some… maybe I should try making it myself though? I don’t have anything else to do today…” Voice softening, trailing off into a quiet mumble. You talk more to yourself than to Boros, but it was still nice for him to be there to listen.

“Maybe I should just have a cheat night and cook up some ramen- ah!” Your phone buzzes, drawing your attention to it and thus you whip out your phone.

Saitama: sorry was busy y dont we go out 4 dinners tonight instead?

Dinner? Could you ever possibly trust Boros to cook on his own? No. You couldn’t, not yet at least... Unless...

You: Ok! Just give me an hour to get ready! We’ll meet up at Itadesi’s Ramen Joint in City-C!

Saitama: cool see u there. U dont mind if i bring genos do u?

You: Who’s Genos?

Saitama: sorry meant demon cyborg

You: Oh ok, that’s cool!

You close your phone and sit up quickly. “YOU’RE HAVING RAMEN TONIGHT.” Your voice broke the silence harshly, causing Boros’s amber gaze to fall back to you.

“I am? What about you?” Boros questioned, following you into the kitchen as you rush.

“I’m going to be going out with the hero and his friend to a thank you dinner tonight. So you’ll be alone for a few hours, think you can handle being alone for so long?” You tease, a cheeky grin pulls on your face as you get out 4 packs of ramen.

The alien scoffs, watching as you masterfully boil the noodles in a pot. “Of course I can handle it. Since I have regrown my limbs I am at least stronger than 80% of the members of your ‘hero association’ by now, it is only a matter of time before I reach my full strength.”

You give a light chuckle and shake your head. “I don’t doubt it, but I wasn’t worried about that. I was more worried about you getting lonely!” Your teasing voice coos, reaching the alien's ears and causes a purple blush to dust his cheeks.

“O-Of course not! I am perfectly fine on my own.” Boros pouts, refusing to make eye contact with you as he stubbornly flips through the channels.

“Awww, don’t worry! We’ll go somewhere tomorrow, I promise! I just ordered you a big hoodie, and it’ll be in tomorrow. Ok?” You giggle, stirring the boiling water filled with the commoner’s delight.

After finishing the noodles and adding in the broth packets, you decided to just keep the noodles in the pot since no bowl you own is big enough to hold this much ramen. This also helps in the amount of dishes Boros seems to accumulate, and fewer dishes means a lower water bill. Boros doesn’t seem to mind, as he simply takes the pot and a pair of chopsticks to go and eat at the table facing the TV.

As your alien roomie eats his dinner you begin to prepare for yours, it was casual so you didn’t have to pretty yourself up. So instead you went with a cute and comfy dress and your favorite pair of sandals, a different pair of sandals than your official ‘smacky sandies’ as you call them, which obviously you use to kick some serious ass.

You comb your hair and decide to leave it down since you were having a good hair day today, and you put on some lip gloss and perfume and voila! You’re all ready to go for the night, so along with your purse and keys, you head out your apartment door. “Ok, Boros! I’ll be back in a couple of hours!” You receive a muffled grunt from him in response, looking back to him you see his cheeks stuffed full with ramen. With a final giggle at how he reminded you of a chipmunk and a small wave, you were already on your way to the ramen joint in the next city over.

The daily life of the streets has died down, calming along with the setting of the sun. The evening glow painted the sky above you in an array of warm hues, saturated from the whisper of dusk. The colors burned so brightly it almost seemed like you were waiting for a drop of molten gold to drip from the sky, and fall to the earth below. Despite the sun’s imminent departure the comforting heat still brushed your exposed skin, calming any nerves that may have been on the fritz from what you had planned tonight. With your newly found alone time, which had become rarer due to the sudden foreign roommate, you began to wonder about the future.

How would Saitama react to Boros still being alive? Would he wish to kill him again? Or would he even care at all? Perhaps you could show him how harmless the alien really is- ok… maybe not ‘harmless’ but passive?

A groan escapes your glossy lips, and you retrain yourself from messing up your nicely done hair. “This is way too complicated for my liking… I’m a woman in my youth! I’m in my prime! I shouldn't be stressing so much… I’ll get wrinkles prematurely.” You huff quietly to yourself, grimacing at the thought of deep crows feet in your 30’s.

Your eyes cast up to the towering buildings above you, reflecting the cascading colors of the sun. It had reminded you of when you first woke in the wreckage of city-A. The ethereal metal of Boros’s ship had reflected the light the same as the office buildings above you, but somehow the alien metal seemed to do it so much better. The prismatic shine of the golden warmth could never be compared to anything you’ve ever seen on earth, it saddened you slightly to know you may never get to see something like that again. But maybe this was just you seeking out the beauty in an ugly situation, but you were fine with that. It made everything a whole lot easier anyway.

Eventually, you arrive at the ramen shop, it’s quaint and modest design had attracted you since you first movies into the city. Reminding you of your home out in the suburbs that you grew up in, giving you a warm and tingly feeling every time you ate there. From your frequent visits you ended up getting to know the restaurant owner, and the servers, very well. This sometimes managed to get you a bowl of rice on the house, and a free bowl of ramen on your birthday. The benefits of being social never cease to amaze you.

“Ah! There she is! I haven’t seen you in a while, (y/n)! Where’ve you been?” A familiar voice rings through the small ramen shop, resulting in a grin to spread across your face as you’re met with the worn but hearty face of the shop owner. This was Ryugen, a retired officer who, despite his old age, could probably wrestle a bear and win.

“I’ve just been a little busy lately, you know you can’t keep me away forever!” You reply, flashing him a bright smile in return. Your eyes scan the room, but you don’t have to look too hard for the duo whom you searched for stood out like a sore thumb. It’s not hard to spot a blonde cyborg, though if Saitama were to get lost that might be a different story…

“Hey, guys!” You chirped, taking a seat with the other two before you. The table in itself was nothing to really write home about, with condiments placed carefully in the center. It had four chairs, and was the perfect size for such… you can’t help but wonder how that would be the perfect seat for Boros.

“Oh, hey! Good to see you again,” Saitama said casually, a small grin appearing on his face. “This is Genos, my-”

“I am Saitama-sensei’s disciple.” The blonde interrupted, causing the bald man across from him to give out a small sigh.

“Good to meet you! My name’s (y/n)!” You introduce, and not long after a young server, obviously new since you didn’t recognize her, came up to your table with three menus.

“Hi! My name is Yuki and I’ll be your server today!” She liked Genos, you could tell by how she was not so subtly sneaking glances at him, this made you chuckle quietly. You couldn’t blame her though, you’re not oblivious to the fact that Demon Cyborg was incredibly handsome.

“Well, I’m getting the yasai ramen! With a to-go box of a strawberry cake slice… make that four slices… actually.” Yuki gives you an odd look, but writes down your order anyways, and looks to the other two.

Saitama hums, carefully scanning the menu. “I’ll just have a beef shoyu, and some water for me as well.”

“And I’ll have the same,” Genos responds instantly, a blank look on his face.

“O-Ok! I’ll bring out your food as soon as it’s done!” She chimes and her cheeks flush slightly, as she scurries off to the back for your guy’s drinks.

“While we’re waiting for the food I wanted to know what sorts of cool things you’ve done as a hero?” You question, not asking anyone in particular since they were both heroes. But you were hoping for Saitama to possibly mention A-city if he did save everyone he would surely talk about it.

“Uhh, nothing really happens that’s too cool I guess. It kind of just happens…” Saitama mutters, rubbing his chin as he thought with a placid look on his face.

“What? But you’re the one who saved A-city right?” You question, your brows furrowing as your head tilts in utter confusion.

A surprised look crosses Saitama’s face, and you feel Geno's eyes burn into the side of your face. “Huh? I mean yeah… But I never told any news station, how did you know?”

SHIT. ABORT. ABORT.

“Oh! Uh- I saw you come out of the scary alien ship! I got caught up in the destruction, but somehow managed to get out. I saw you come out as I was exiting the city.” You weren’t lying, you just weren't telling the whole truth. Definitely not as bad as actually lying.

“Why did you not approach a hero immediately?” A sudden, cutthroat, question is flung at you from the blonde cyborg sitting to your left.

“O-Oh, that’s because… uh…” You stutter under Genos’s intense gaze, was this guy always this intense? He makes you kind of nervous. “Because my friend is a hero too! S-So I went to him, instead of any of you guys.” Another partial truth, you just hope he bought it.

There’s a moment of silence before Genos nods in understanding. “Yes, that would make sense for you to seek familiar help in a time of distress.”

Eventually, the waitress returns, a whole plate of delicious looking food as well as a white plastic container which you assumed contained the slices of strawberry cake.

“So Saitama, could you tell me about the battle of A-city? If you’re comfortable with it, of course. The battle must have been hard!” You smile, slurping up the delicious noodles in front of you as well as munching on a few pieces of mushroom.

“It wasn’t really hard… but he was the strongest I’ve ever faced. Nothing really interesting happened… well, he almost blew the planet up- but I stopped it.” His power must have been scary, to speak of something as grave as that so lightly.

“Yes, Sensei is the strongest. Without him, the world would have ended.” Genos states, causing an awkward look to cross Saitama’s soft features.

“You don’t have to hype it up, it’s not that impressive…” Saitama mumbles, slurping up a big bundle of noodles. “Ah! Hot, hot!”

You giggle, a wide grin spreading across your face. “Careful not to burn yourself, everything here is super fresh after all!” You hear a hum of approval from Ryugen behind you.

“Make sure to tell everyone that, girly.” Ryugen chimes into the conversation, causing a laugh to escape your lips.

“Of course you geezer!” You tease, watching the master chef disappear off into the kitchen.

“You seem well acquainted with the owner of this establishment, I am assuming you come here often?” Genos questions after swallowing his own mouthful of noodles.

Your own food had cooled to a desirable temperature, and in turn quickly eating the ramen in a manner that may not have been considered ladylike. But the two of them didn’t seem to mind.

“Yes, I’ve lived in city-B most of my life, only moving away to city-C for my current job. My parents passed when I was very young, a monster attack, so my aunt took me in. She happened to live near this ramen joint, and would take me here all of the time.” You explain, though the topic itself still stabbed your heart the wound itself had longed since healed. Though the scar wouldn’t fade, it didn’t tear you apart to speak of it.

Your story, though, seemed to strike a cord with Genos. Though his expression was still unreadable, there was a certain glint in his eyes that made his expression from before looking completely different.

Eventually, the three of you finish your meal, your wallet sobs as you pay the bill. But this guy saved your life, so you wiped away the tears of your bank account and let a bright smile stretch your glossy lips. Chatting with the two heroes had been fun, enjoying the company of people other than an alien, or Kazuo.

Though Genos was intimidating, he was actually a huge dork. Following Saitama around like a lost puppy, it was actually really freaking cute.

Genos’s phone rang, interrupting the conversation the three of you shared. “Please, excuse me a moment.” Genos excuses himself politely and lags behind the two of you as he talks to someone on the phone. Most likely the hero’s association.

The moon shone brightly above you, and the stars shining brightly despite the city lights. The air was cool, but didn’t nip at your skin like a pest, instead only comforting you and topping off your relaxing evening.

“Hey, Saitama?” You question, watching as the stars glistened in the sky like crystals and the breeze gently move the pooling clouds.

“Yeah?”

“Do you believe in second chances?”

There’s a moment of silence, between the two of you. Nothing filled it except the quiet noise of the city and the soft conversation of Genos from behind you.

“Yeah, I do.” He replies casually.

“Even if they did something really bad? Like… something a monster would do? Do you think they could change?” You couldn’t meet his eyes if he was looking at you at all. You were scared he would grow suspicious, confront you for asking such specific questions out of the blue…

But he never did.

Instead, he lets out a hum, and you hear the rustling of fabric as he stuffs his hands into the pockets of his jacket. “Yeah, I guess they can… they’d have to want to change, though.”

Eventually, you make it out the front of your apartment building, and you waved to the heroes as they walked off. Bidding them farewell and a promise to have a night like this again. You unlock and enter your apartment, the lights are off and the house is silent but what Saitama said still echoes in your thoughts loudly.

You enter your shared bedroom, grabbing a change of clothes and doing your nightly routine in the bathroom before exiting. You watching Boros for a moment, his chest steadily rising and falling in tune with his deep breaths. His pink hair glistening in the light of the moon that peeked through the blinds. You took this moment to realize how handsome Boros actually was, despite all his alien biology even for human standards he was good looking. Or maybe that was just you being weird again… you were sure that if any girl were to see him they would scream. He was rather intimidating after, but you didn’t think he meant to be though. Maybe it was just in his nature because you see no reason for him to try and act scary.

You pull your blankets up over you, sighing happily at the warmth and softness that surrounded you. You still had no clue what the cause was for your feelings to Boros, but you felt as if you had to be there for him. You had to help him. Maybe this was just you and your overwhelming sense of mercy, almost to a fault. You always had a tendency to take in stray animals and heal them, but could never keep them due to the ‘no pet’ policy in your apartments.

But… no, this was different. Boros was different. You just didn’t know how yet.

Your final moments of consciousness were spent staring at the sleeping alien beside you, you never remember how or when you fall asleep… you always found that odd. But eventually, it always sneaks up on you and pulls you down under its dark waves of sleep.

A small girl giggles, as she chases two blonde boys through the streets of city-b.

“Hey! Wait up, guys!” The young lady, fitted in a bubbly white dress with cute flowery sandals, finally makes it over to her two childhood friends.

“Hey! Let’s play heroes and villains!” The first boy chirps, his long platinum hair bouncing with his excited movements. “I can be the hero, (y/n)-chan you can be the daisy in distress!”

“Why do I have to be the daisy in distress?” You pout, eyes downcast towards the dirt as you kick up a cloud.

“It’s damsel in distress, not daisy… and (y/n)-chan can be a villain with me!” Said the other boy, looking over at you with a wide grin.

“Ok!” You giggle, running over to the spiky haired boy. A look of mock betrayal crosses over Kazuo’s face.

“That’s not fair! How come you get an extra partner?” The small boy pouts, giving the two of you puppy dog eyes.

“Because being weak is boring! And being strong means you can do whatever you want! So that's why me and (y/n)-chan are villains!” The boy beside you grabs your hand, a childish blush spreads across your features as you let out a small laugh.

“Yeah! So prepare yourself, hero! I’m gonna steal all your candy!” You giggle, mocking an evil expression.

“Ha! Not today candy thief! Buy your own!”

Chapter Text

“Hey… (y/n)-chan…” A young boy mumbles, spiky platinum hair shifting gently as the cool breaths  He sits next to a young girl, with silky hair pulled up into cute pigtails.

“Yeah?” She asks with innocent shining eyes shifting over to the boy next to her.

“Do… you promise to…” His voice trails off to a mumble, fingers absently picking at the hill’s grass. The sun shone brightly above them, warm rays of

“Promise what?” Her head tilts in confusion, now shifting the entirety of her small frame towards the boy next to her.

“Promise to… be friends with me… forever.” His voice is hesitant, eyes still refusing to meet her own as an innocent blush dusts his cheeks.

“Of course!” The young girl’s response seemed to somehow surprise him, and his head whips towards her.

“R-really? Even though people make fun of you for hanging out with me?” The boy now turns to face her fully, a childish concern but the gesture was genuine.

“Who cares about them?” The young girl giggles. “It’s just like you said! Being weak is boring, so we have to be strong together- right?” A bright grin, one he would never be used to, almost blinds him.

“Right…” His eyes sparkle, looking towards the young girl beside him in innocent awe as she holds out her pinky, he slowly raises his in turn. The two lock pinkies to seal an everlasting promise.

Your eyes blink open, staring lazily at the wall you had turned to face in your sleep. Warm late morning rays peeked in through the blinds of your bedroom window and soft city morning noises gently pull you back from the depths of sleep you had entered. Boros, who is usually sleeping next to you in the early hours of the morning, is already up and could be heard from the kitchen…

Wait. He’s in the kitchen.

You instantly stand, stumbling slightly as black spots momentarily clouded your vision from the rush of blood. You really hope he wasn’t trying to cook since you couldn’t trust him to not burn down the house quite yet. But upon entering the kitchen in a ‘completely calm’ state you see him simply making a bowl of cereal.

“Good morning.” He greets, grabbing another bowl for you which you gratefully take.

“G’mornin’...” You slur, suddenly very heavy as the short burst of adrenaline that burst through your system faded. You sleepily taking the box from his hands, and make your own bowl of Lucio-oh’s. Your mind was still foggy from sleep, as it struggles to create a sensible timeline of the night prior. You had ramen… with two heroes. Yeah, one of them was Demon Cyborg and the other one was the one who saved your life. Saitama.

Guilt coiled around your heart, a snake-like predator as it threatened to strangle you. You knew you should tell him about it, it wouldn’t be right to just keep this kind of thing a secret. But how do you tell him you’ve been hanging out with the guy who nearly killed him? It’s not really something you can just casually say or something you can find a guide to on Wikihow. But at the same time you shouldn’t be feeling THIS bad, I mean, after all, Saitama was the hero who saved the planet with Boros being the one he had to save it from…

Saitama was the hero. Boros was the villain. You shouldn’t feel this bad, but you do. Because it’s moments like these you always remember that you never really cared about heroes and villains in the first place, both just being constructs of the mass society. Each country in the world having a different view of what classes someone a hero or a villain.

It was stupid.

But he almost killed you, Saitama saved you… that much was certain. He’ll just have to deal with it… but you still can’t stand the thought of him being mad at you. Damn you and your kind heart, start thinking of yourself more damn it.

“Human…. Human!” Boros’s voice cuts through your trance like a knife, you realize that you had been staring at the wall and your cereal was now soggy. “What is wrong? Are you feeling ill?”

“O-Oh… no… I’m just still tired.” You brush off, dumping the now gross cereal. What a waste… but who the hell wants to eat soggy cereal? That shit is nasty. “But…” Rip off the band-aid. “I do have to tell you something…” Just rip it off real fast, it’ll only get worse if you wait any longer.

You turn to face the alien, watching him as he sips some orange juice from a glass. His big hands gingerly hold the cup, looking at you expectantly. “Well… I-I’ve been speaking to… Saitama. The man who defeated you before. A-and I’m pretty sure we’re friends now.” You start, Boros pauses. His expression doesn’t change, but he doesn’t move. Maybe he wouldn’t react as badly as you thought? “And he’s actually really cool, and I just thought that- EEK!” A cracking sound yanked a squeal from you, cutting off the sentence you were gingerly trying to form, doing your best to avoid conflict. You watched with slightly wider eyes as orange juice dripped through Boros’s fingers, over the shattered glass still clutched in his hand. It began pooling on the table in the following silence.

Boros was far angrier than he looked apparently. His face was blank, but the further you observed the more you noticed how his body language spoke volumes. His fists were clenched around the shards, their sharpness not affecting him in the slightest. His broad shoulders were tensed and stiff, and his sharp jawline was clenched. You quickly raise your hands in a placating gesture, trying quickly to calm down the alien in front of you. That was one of your favorite glasses, and you definitely didn’t want any more of your cups to fall victim to his steel grip.

“But… he was the one who saved me, Boros. If it weren’t for him I would be dead.” You pause a moment, with gaze cast down towards the table you watch as orange juice slowly trickles over to your side. “And I can’t just ignore something as important as that… I’m sorry.” There’s another brief moment of silence, and a new found vigor makes you lock the both of your gazes.

“But even so, I was never planning on getting in the way of your rivalry!” You let yourself speak from the heart, words forming before you had time to process them. “I can never ever support your actions, what you did to A-city… but for some reason, I can’t help but want to watch you grow as a person and become stronger!” A wide smile spreads on your face, Boros’s own features growing softer. “So... I’ll always root for you, Boros!”

His amber iris — saturated and melting like a mirror of the evening skies you saw only the night prior — stares at you… through you. Looking for any sign that may lead him to distrust you, but when gazing at you find nothing but the truth, a naive honesty even. He lets his hand fall, and sighs. The intense gaze he’s been keeping for what seemed like ages fall away so easily as he nods to you in understanding.

“You are… a very strange human. I wondered, during my time here, of what you were scheming. What your true underlying motives were, to harbor a foreign being such as myself- one that at one point planned to destroy your entire species. But I see now that you have no underlying motives, though I still cannot comprehend your reasoning for taking me in. You have no reason to trust me, I could kill you right now-”

“But you won’t.” Your voice softly interrupts, a warm smile on your face.

Boros’s eye widens, his gaze once again snapping back towards your smaller frame. “And how do you know that?”

“Because my gut says so! When I’m around you I don’t feel scared at all, in fact, I feel pretty safe with you around. So that obviously means you’re no real threat to me.” You reply honestly, grabbing a hand towel and moving back over towards the alien who quietly sits and watches your actions.

“You are a singularity, human. And I am not sure if I have ever met someone as brave… or as stupid as you are.” The alien gently offers his hand, which you softly wipe off. Though part of you was expecting to see cuts on the alien’s hands you still weren’t surprised to see no damage done to his hands.

“I’ll take that as a compliment.” Your tone is jovial, and you finish placing all of the glass shards into the hand towel before quickly discarding them into the trash can.

“I apologize for breaking your dishware, I lost control of my strength for a moment. It will not happen again.” Though you are surprised at how easily Boros apologized, being the prideful and dominating force he was, but you appreciated his ability to see his wrongdoings.

“Alright, I’ll hold your word to it.” You give Boros a bright smile, who stands and grabs his bowl of cereal before placing it into the sink.

The day goes on fairly smoothly after that, the both of you do household chores and the atmosphere is light with the weight of guilt finally removed. Though you don’t think Boros could ever really be ‘friends’ with Saitama, at least he won’t destroy any more cities.

A knock is sounded at the door, drawing your attention away from the laundry you had been hanging up outside. “Coming!” Your socked feet make small pap pap pap noises as you jog across your hardwood floor, and after peeping through the hole you open the door to be faced with a delivery boy.

“Package for… (y/n) (l/n)?” He questions, glancing up at you for confirmation, which you give as a happy head nod. “Sign here please.”

After signing off the package, and bidding the delivery boy a thank you as a farewell, you happily call out for you alien roommate. “Boros! Your hoodie is here!”

The alien makes his way out of the kitchen, where he had been doing dishes, and watches as you open it on the table. You quickly pull out two articles of clothing: one being an enormous black hoodie that had a large alien head in the center with the caption reading ‘humans are gross’, and another normal sized shirt that also had an alien on it with the caption ‘don’t be sad, be rad’.

A look of confusion crosses Boros’s face at your odd choice of attire but carefully put on the hoodie. “You look so cute!!” You gush, bouncing slightly at the sight of the large alien.

“Are you sure this will conceal me properly?” Boros questions.

“Well you’ll still stand out, you’re super tall and only have one eye. But at least people won’t be screaming or anything... ok. Try the hood on now.” You watch as the violet-skinned man before you put on the hood, and giggle as his spiky hair distorts the shape of the hood and sticks out awkwardly through the front. “Here, let me go get something. Sit down, I’ll be right back!”

Boros complies, his amber gaze following you as you jog to the bathroom. After a few moments you return with a couple of scrunchies, both seem to be sturdy and of large size, perfect for Boros’s seemingly untamable hair. But that will change today.

You walk behind Boros and comb your fingers through his pastel hair. It’s surprisingly soft despite its natural shape, and each strand is like silk. From the close distance, you can smell your own shampoo and conditioner, a soothing scent of tangerines and honey. Eventually, you manage to pull the mass of hair back, and using the scrunchies around your wrist tie Boros’s hair into a ponytail.

“There!” You step around to the front of Boros, giving a huff of accomplishment as you take in his new appearance. Simply changing a consistent hairstyle is almost enough to make him look so different, not drastically but you’d certainly have to look twice. It didn’t look bad on him either! “Now try to put your hood up!”

Boros does as he’s told, and just as you expected the hood now sits on his head normally. It covers just enough of his face to where people probably wouldn’t say anything if they saw him, so this is what you’ll go with. Maybe you should add a surgical mask?

“So where do you want to visit? Any local places you saw on TV you’d want to check out?” Currently, you’re rummaging through the under cabinets of your sink, trying to find a simple surgical mask for Boros to wear.

Boros stays silent for a moment, watching your crouched form as you eventually pull out a mask with a small aha! “I would like to visit a shopping mall. I heard that it is a good place to wander aimlessly.”

You turn and crane your neck up at the alien, surprised by the location of his choosing. “You realize that’s where a lot of people are right? Like… human peoples…” Your features softly contort in a questioning manner, watching as Boros nods.

“Yes. I am aware.” Your shoulder shrug, and you hand gestures for him to bend down in which comply. With his hands resting on his knees you gently place the surgical mask over his lower facial features. As you back away, he stands back at full height. You take a moment to admire your handy work before nodding with a bright grin.

“Perfect!”

The sun shines brightly over the two of you, the noise of human life surrounding the two of you as you walk down the streets of City-C. The weather was perfect, therefore a perfect day to start to show Boros how life is on Earth. You have a small bounce in your step, and you feel your chest tighten. There’s just so much to show Boros you’re not even sure if you can fit it all in one day! But you have to remember he’s going to be here a long time, so you have plenty to show him everything! But first, of course, is more food!

The smell of freshly baked pastries wafts through your senses as you notice a street side bakery stand to sell a wide variety of sugary goods. Your mouth waters at the sight, and you tug Boros into the directions of the sweets. He, of course, has no problem with this at all, and actually seems more than eager to taste the sugary delights as well.

There’s an older woman working the register, and she gives a big grin to the two of you. “What can I get for you?”

“I’ll take… 4 melonpan! And… 2 rice cakes!” You chirp, pointing to the items you want as you list them.

The lady bags your items, and you pull out your cash to pay for them. As you walk away you’re quick to pull out the baked goods. “This is the best part about Earth! Probably the most important part too: street side markets! They usually sell food, and they- along with convenience stores- are staples to human life! Without them, most of the human population would probably die.” You inform him, handing him is 2 melonpan and rice cake.

The alien nods in understanding, making a mental note of all these important facts of human culture. The alien lifts his mask for a brief moment to shove in the treat and you watch as his eye widens in response to the flavors. “This is delicious. The subtle flavors mix perfectly.”

“Don’t talk with your mouth full!” You lightly scold, but the smile on your fast vastly contrasts your tone.

The two of you walk, snacking away happily like the food lovers you were. Boros constantly asks questions on what is around you, and you answer happily. “And what is that?” Boros questions, pointing towards a life-sized statue of Hatsune Miku.

“Oh! That’s a Vocaloid, she’s basically a fake pop idol. A real big hit with the otakus.” You inform, glancing at the ungodly long electric blue hair of the anime idol. How much conditioner does she even have to use?

“And what is an… otaku?”

“Oh, they’re people who like anime and manga and stuff like that. A lot of them have no lives.”

“So… they are dead because they like anime and manga?” An amber eye glances towards you in confusion, causing a giggle to escape your throat.

“No Boros. They’re perfectly alive, it’s just another weird human saying. They basically don’t get out much. Kinda like you, but minus the anime and manga.” A teasing tone is clear in your voice, and you only receive a grunt in response from the alien walking beside you.

The sounds of life chatter around you: children laughing, friends gossiping, and romantics cooing happily to each other. You can’t help but feel your chest swell whenever you were surrounded by such mundane happiness, and your Inigo friend beside you only added to the feeling. Knowing you finally had another friend besides Kazuo to take along on these casual trips made your life taste a little bit sweeter. Though people were obviously giving him odd looks due to his unusual size, no one thought too much of it. Since monsters and almost inhuman pro heroes were common in their culture, no one thought too much about it of a ‘human’ with large proportions.

“Oh! Look! There it is!” Your finger excitedly points towards a large building, the intricate modern design of the shopping center gave it all a sleek look. With windows reflecting and letting in the light of the sun, the sliding doors opened to many people moving in and out of the building. “I didn’t bring much cash, so we can’t buy a whole lot... but just walking through you’ll see a whole lot of cool stuff!”

You grab Boros by his hand, dragging him along into the mall. Automatic glass doors parting, you’re met with a cool flood of air blowing your hair back. From the sudden temperature change your skin prickles with goosebumps, but you’re not bothered at all. Glass planes make up the roof, letting in the sun’s natural lighting.

“There’s so much food here, so we’ll probably spend all of our money eating…” You said honestly to yourself, already finding yourself transfixed by the vast amount of sweets presented prettily in display cases.

“I thought you said earlier that you were low on funds-” Boros had begun to criticize you and your bad choices but you were quick to shush him.

“Boros you will quickly learn that us humans make a lot of bad choices that they will always say they regret, but never actually regret.” You state, pausing to look at a cute cosplay on a mannequin.

“That makes little sense, why do your words always contradict your feelings? Ah… wait… because you wish to seem ‘perfect’, correct?” The alien’s question is more toned like a statement, but his questioning glance directed towards the attire you had been analyzing through the store window stays true.

“Because, my dear alien companion, humans like to live in the moment. Because we don’t know what will happen tomorrow so we live every day without regrets. Well… that’s my policy at least.” You mumble, tugging Boros along once more.

The indigo alien’s amber gaze is curious, and you assume he’s taking in his surroundings with scary accuracy from the way his eyes dart all over the place. The only thing that really captures his genuine attention is food, not that you could blame him of course because it totally caught yours too. You two probably stopped for food at least 4 times as you barely explored the mall, all the items that Boros had requested had been strawberry themed and you decided to vary your tastes a little with each shop.

“Boros, if you eat too many strawberries you’ll get sick of them…” You mumbled, casting him a concerned glance as he took a large bite from a strawberry jam filled pastry.

“Impossible. I could never get tired of such a delicacy.” Boros brushed you off, finishing off his pastry. You simply sigh in return and let it go with a shrug.

A comfortable silence fell between you two, as you weaved through crowds of people when suddenly a shop caught your interest. “Oh! Boros!” You tug at his sleeve and point to an accessory store. “Let’s go try out some things inside!”

“What is so interesting about it?” He questions, glancing at the array of fake jewelry and bags.

“It’s just really fun to try all this stuff on… LIKE LOOK!” You dash over to a sunglasses stand and pick out a cute pair of hipster framed glasses with a mustache hanging by a chain. “Tada~!” You quickly spin to show Boros, striking a confident pose.

“That looks stupid.” You’re taken aback by his cut-dry attitude, a deadpan look present on his handsome features.

“What?! I think it looks cute!” You pout, taking off the sunglasses and placing them back with a huff before you spot something… amazing. “Boros. Boros. Boros!”

“What?”

“I just found… THESE!” You quickly turn showing him the green and black alien eye sunglasses, they’re comically large and put a stupid grin on your face. You quickly put them on and giggle as you stare at yourself in the mirror. Looking to the side you notice a pair of antennae headbands, you grab two and rush back over to your friend. Putting on one yourself you yank him by the hood to bend down, which he begrudgingly complies.

You giggle as the antennae jiggle around with his movement, not looking amused in the slightest… but you probably couldn’t care less. “Boros, for Halloween we should be matching! You’ll be the alien, obviously, and I’ll be the astronaut!”

“I… am not quite sure I understand.” Boros mumbles, starring as you pose in the mirror with your comically large alien glasses reflecting the bright lights of the store.

“Well, humans have a weird stereotype for aliens, short green ugly looking things with green antennae. So we’ll have to dress you up like that… minus the green part. But I’ll be in an astronaut costume! And we can go to a party! Or get candy! Or both!” You cheer, dragging Boros over to the cash register to buy your purchases.

“Your standards of alien species sounds awfully like the species that inhabits your neighboring planet, Mars I believe it was called.” You paused and looked up at Boros to see if he was joking. But he wasn’t… he probably didn’t even know what a joke was. And he said it so casually like everyone knew about it.

“What?” You stare up at him, comprehending his words further. He meets your absent gaze blankly. “EHH?! THERE ARE ALIENS ON MARS?!”

“I’m surprised you didn’t know about this…”

Soon enough, once you had gotten over your groundbreaking ‘discovery’, you two are walking around in the mall with your latest purchases, receiving weird looks from people but you couldn’t care less. A wide smile tugs at your lips and you realize you hadn’t had this much fun walking around a mall since your high school years. Though Boros didn’t much appreciate the headband, he couldn’t find it in himself to say no to you due to your childish joy when you two were matching in your cliche, yet totally epic, alien gear. But your childish joy could only get you so far since you couldn’t convince him to ride in the little rocketship machine ride.

As the two of you continue you wander your eyes fall upon a familiar paw by the sign of a certain store that was most definitely your favorite store here… “BOROS! Look! A pet shop!” Your hand wraps around his larger one, as you quickly tug Boros towards the pet store.

Upon entering you gaze fills with wonder, the entire place filled with a variety of adorable little creatures. You then felt the overwhelming urge to buy all of them and make your small apartment into a personal zoo just so you can give all of your love to them unconditionally. A squeal resounded through you, startling the large alien beside you who looked completely lost.

“Oh my GOD! They’re all so cute I want to die!” You gushed, speeding over to a pin of puppies who all clambered over each other to eagerly greet your awaiting hand. “Ahhhh!!”

Boros curiously lagged behind, amber eye analyzing the small excited creatures that had gained your immense affection. Small cries broke his attention though, as he looked to his right and saw a pin labeled ‘kittens’. Walking over to the pin he was met with a mass of tiny fluffy felines, each unique from their litter-mates. But one caught his interest specifically.

Looking up at him with a striking blue gaze, a special innocence that none could compare to. The white kitten, with ears, paws, and nose dusted in grey, mewed softly and clumsily bounced over to the side of the cage to cry up towards the indigo alien. What caught Boros’s attention though was the resemblance between the two of them, the small being had mewled up at Boros with only one eye as the other was still tightly shut. Hesitantly the alien reached down to softly touch the kittens head, scared that he might break the small thing. His warm touch gave him a loud purr and some head-butting in response.

“Well? Aren’t you going to pick him up?” Your voice startled Boros, who had been so focused on the pet that he didn’t notice you behind him.

“I… am afraid I might break… them…” Boros said slowly, gaze drifting back to the small kitten.

“Nonsense! You won’t hurt him, all you gotta do is be gentle. Here, open out your hands.” You reach down into the pin as Boros does as you say, gently grabbing the kitten you place the feline into the aliens awaiting hands.

Instantly Boros tenses, simply staring at the kitten who purred loudly. “Now what?”

“Well, you pet it, and love it, and stuff like that I guess. There’s really no guide on how to love kittens.” You shrug, before wondering if there actually was. Knowing the internet you didn’t doubt it. You made a mental note to search for it later.

You watch as Boros slowly relaxes, and gingerly raises a hand and scratches the top of its head. The kitten mewled, purring and butting his head into Boros’s finger. You cooed at the sight, thankful to watch this softer side of Boros. The alien’s cheeks flush gently, and you swear you saw for a split moment the corners of his lips twitching.

“I think she likes you…” You said softly, your own smile tugging at your lips as you watch the scene before you.

Boros said nothing in return, quietly continuing to pet the kitten who adored the attention.

Eventually, the two of you had to leave, Boros very reluctant to do so. As you walk out of the mall the familiar hues of the evening skies greeted you, a warm purple growing up from the horizon to welcome the dark night. You chatted happily with Boros, or to rephrase you gushed about the day while he listened. As the two of you walk through you hear a suspicious mewl coming from over in Boros’s direction.

“Boros? Did you hear that?” You question, peering around Boros to look in the alleyway beside you both.

“...No.” Another mewl, and you narrowed your eyes at the alien. He refused to make eye contact, and it is now that you noticed how he had his hands tucked away into his hoodie.

“Boros… what’s in your pocket?” Similar to a scolding mother, your hands rested themselves on your hips as you continued to question the suspect before you.

“...Nothing.” He grunted, amber iris now cast down towards the ground in a look similar to shame. Another loud mewl sounded out, now obviously from the pocket of his hoodie.

“Boros! Did you actually steal the kitten?!” Your voice raises in disbelief. If someone had told you that on the day you took an alien out to the mall with you that he’d steal a kitten you would’ve laughed in their face. But here you were.

“You said that humans do things that they do not regret because they live in the moment. I am doing as a human would, ‘live a life of no regrets’. And I would’ve regretted not taking this being.” As he said that, a large indigo hand pulled out the same blue-eyed feline as before. The young animal looked up at you with their one eye and let out a small squeal.

Your heart melts at the sight, cooing gently as you scratch under its chin.

“You didn’t get caught… right?” Your eyes peer up to Boros, and you see him smirk.

“Of course not.” His response gets a grin out of you.

“Then I guess it’s not really stealing if no one knows about it!” Bad logic aside, you eventually arrive at your apartment once more. The alien had placed the kitten on the floor, the both of you watching as it instantly began to run around and explore. “We’ll go get cat supplies tomorrow, but for tonight I can ask my neighbor for some food and litter. Pretty sure I have a spare shoebox…”

Eventually, you have a small area in the room for the kitten, old blankets and small pillows piled on top of each other to form a warm and cozy makeshift bed. And not far from it a bowl and plate placed for the kitten to eat and drink from.

“What’re you going to name her?” You ask, eyes looking up at your roommate who seemed to contemplate for a moment, staring at the cyclops kitten who stretched on her new bed.

“Stardust… I believe is a suitable name.” He hesitantly replied, meeting your gaze for confirmation.

A bright smile makes its way onto your face, and you take a hand of his into both of yours to reassure him. “I think it’s a perfect name… and I’m sure Stardust will like her new home too.”

Chapter Text

The summer sun shone brightly, filtering through the blinds of your shared apartments windows in a welcomed greeting. The scenery outside a stark contrast to the confused emotions that swirled within you. Lately it had been getting harder and harder to hide Boros from Genos and Saitama, with the two surprisingly always being at the wrong place at the wrong time- for you at least. You couldn’t go out with Boros anywhere without somehow seeing the duo, and you quickly had to hide the alien. Which mind you hadn’t been an easy ordeal at all, since Boros was seemingly born to stand out with his large stature and natural colors that stood out from the rest of human society. And the nervousness you displayed didn’t help either, not wanting to give them the idea that you felt uncomfortable around them- which is the complete opposite about how you felt. A comforting sensation of safety would make itself apparent when around them, the same could be said about Boros. No, it wasn’t them being with you that made you nervous it was the very obvious them with Boros that put you on edge.
    So that’s why you and Kazuo have been scheming. And is also the reason for your nervous wreck of a state currently.
    You managed to convince Boros to meet with Saitama again and to meet his student, but the thing was... neither of them knew of Boros yet. So to prevent any discourse not only had you swayed Boros with sweets to control his own temper (and some professionally done puppy eyes), but you also arranged the hangout spot at a beach- with Kazuo coming for emotional support of course. So here you were, dressed in your bomb ass bikini that served your body type the justice it deserved. And yet despite looking so fly you can’t even appreciate yourself like you wanted to, looking all cute but the vibes not there to back you up?! What kind of bull was that?
    “Boros do you have everything packed up?” You questioned, carefully wrapping some packs of the strawberry dango you had made this morning, as well as a jar of strawberry sauce to top them with. “What flavor should I pack…?” You mumbled to yourself, gazing at the various flavors of the Arizona tea.
    “Yes. I believe I got everything on the list you had given me.” You heard his deep voice reply, smooth and surprisingly calm as he walks out from your shared bedroom into your view of the living room.
    “Ok, now do you remember our agreement?” You quiz, throwing in at least one of every kind, but putting a bit extra of you and Boros’s favorites, before closing up the cooler and standing straight to look him in the eye.
    “Yes. I am not to threaten, fight, or be disrespectful to Saitama or his student.” He listed, sounding bored… and not very sincere you had to admit but you trusted him… probably.
    “Correct! And remember, if any human happens to freak on you just let us handle it. Though we’ll be in a more secluded part of the beach, so hopefully we don’t have to worry about that.” You inform, throwing on your long white lace coverup and beach hat. “God… I’m so nervous. How are you so calm?” You pout, looking up to meet a calm amber iris.
    “Because, unlike you I do not get worked up over trivial matters.” Boros drawled out, causing you to groan.
    “Ugh… stupid alien, it’s not trivial it’s-” You’re cut off by a honk coming from outside. “Oh! That must be Kazuo.” You open the door, triple checking to make sure everything you needed was in your small handbag.
    “Goodbye Stardust.” You hear Boros mumble, stroking the cyclops kitten who purred loudly in response. This caused you to smile, maybe this trip wouldn’t be so bad after all?
    The alien eventually caught up, moving past you and ducking through the doorframe. “Bye Stardust~!” You cooed, blowing the lazy feline and kiss before shutting and locking the door. “Alright! Let’s go and do this!” You cheered, hyping yourself. The hardest part of any matter is getting to it, you have to just remind yourself that it’ll be better if you just rip it off. You got this! “Hey! You look cute, (y/n)!” Kazuo compliments as you approach the car, you fake a dramatically flirty pose in response, a cocky grin spreading across your features.
    “I know right?” You say wistfully, earning a laugh from your childhood friend.
    “Don’t let it get to your head.” The blonde scolds half heartedly.
    With the help of Boros, you and Kazuo manage to pack your stuff in the trunk of the hero’s car. Everything just barely managed to fix inside, thanks to your natural skill in tetris and the practice you’ve had in stocking your fridge since Boros arrived.
    “Nice shirt, Boros.” Kazuo chuckles, earning a growl in response from Boros who crammed his large frame into the back of the small white vehicle. You had obviously put Boros’ outfit together, much to your pride and his ever growing dismay. His swimming trunks were a baby blue, decorated in pink flamingos and palm leaves, with his shirt being a graphic shirt that said ‘a little crabby, but still a cutie!’. You had been ecstatic when you had found them in his size off of amazon, he however (for obvious reasons) was not.
    “You’re lucky I have made a promise to the girl.” Boros growls out, earning a laugh from you and a nervous chuckle from Kazuo.
    “Oh lighten up, you look cute!” You giggled, getting comfortable as you put on your seat belt. Boros simply huffed, seemingly ignoring you now much to your amusement.
    “Everyone ready?”
    “Yeah!”
    The car ride had been light hearted, Kazuo never failing to brighten up your mood with his cheery attitude. It was moments like these where you took a second to appreciate him, even before he became a professional he had always been your hero. It was with his help that you managed to make it through the emotional tide of your parents passing, and the sudden change of cities. You would’ve drowned without him…
    I should invite him over and make his favorite… You thought to yourself, stealing a glance towards him with a warm smile.
    Your laugh rings throughout the car as you and your platinum haired friend talked about all the latest gossip, the warm summer rays kissed your skin through the open windows of his car- any worries of the meeting ahead forgotten as you rant to him about your annoying neighbor, constantly questioning your newly found roommate. Boros sat quietly in the back, his face nearly unreadable but you’ve come to be proficient in reading Boros… and even grew to appreciate it. The way his shoulders rise slightly when he’s surprised, how his shoulder blades tense when he’s mad, and the adorable little pout when he’s interested in something. You mainly see that look on him with Stardust…
    Eventually you three make it to the beach, by now the sun had begun to near its highest point and clouds sparingly dotted the sky. Opening the car door when the car parked, a wave of refreshing heat and wind kissed your skin in contrast to the AC of the vehicle while you were driving. You’re not sure if it’ll be ok… but you couldn’t have avoided this forever.
    “You are worrying again.” Boros stated, a fact. His arms filled with the beach stuff as he followed you to the predetermined spot. “You worry a lot, I’ve noticed. Why is that?”
    “I-” You struggle to come up with a reply, staring out at the waves of the vast ocean before you. “I just care a lot… you know… What if something goes wrong?” What if you get hurt? Because I couldn’t protect you…
    You never met his gaze, scared of that if you did you’d break down right in front of him, but none the less you felt his own on you. “It will be ok, your worries hold no water.”
    How do you know? “I’m sure it will but I’m…” Still worried about you. Worried about us. Worried about Saitama- about Genos. I’m worried about so many things. “I’m ok, just overthinking again I guess...” You mumble, setting down the bags as he follows suit.
    “You’re lying.” Boros’ words cut through you sharply, your eyes widen as you feel the air choke up in your throat for a moment. “You let your baseless fears overcome you, hindering you.”
    “Oi, how the hell is this supposed to be comforting?” You huff, going from nervous to annoyed in a matter of seconds. Only he could do that…
    “You misunderstand…” Boros sighs, frustration in his voice as his face scrunches slightly as he struggles to string together his sentence. You give him a short glare before huffing, turning away from him as you hastily lay out the blanket. Where the hell was Kazuo anyways? You jolt as you feel a large hand rest itself softly on your head- almost as if he was afraid that you would break at any moment. “I mean to say that you should not worry, because no matter what will happen I do not intend to lose your company soon… so…” You gaze up to Boros in awe, eyes wide as the sun reflects through your irises. Boros visibly stiffens as he hastily looks away. If you didn’t know any better, you’d say that the dark purple that lightly dusted his cheeks was him blushing. “Have faith in me as well, girl. That look you have been wearing today compares not to the smile you usually wear.”
    Your breath catches in your chest, staring up at him awe struck. A warmth spreads through your chest, something that reminds you of summer. Of a sunrise, of a hug, of a child’s laughter… Something you’ve searched for many times in your past… something that now came to you in abundance. You couldn’t help yourself when a smile brighter than the sun graced your features, of the blush that settled across your own cheeks. You also couldn’t stop yourself from throwing yourself towards Boros, wrapping your arms (as best as you could) around him.
    “Thank you Boros… You’re the best.” You say, joy and your usual bubbly personality finally showing through.
    “Many humans would think you have gone mad. Being so comfortable around someone such as myself. So foreign to you… you forget how easy it would be for me to crush you.” Boros mumbles, despite his threat you felt him return the hug slightly. He feels you laugh, a genuine smile and a playful bump of the shoulder as you release your hold on him.
    “We’ve been over this already. I know you’d never hurt me. How can I be scared of a giant softie like you? What was it that you did the other day? Didn’t you let Star crawl all up under your shirt as you laid down on the couch?” You playfully question, watching as his gaze narrows down to you. “Don’t give me that look! You’re a softie and you know it!” Your tone is teasing, a shit eating grin earning a small hiss from Boros.
    “I am not soft. I am a warrior.” Boros tries to deny, hating how he can’t even come up with a counter to it.
    “Hey! Sorry for the wait!” Kazuo calls out, drawing your attention towards him. You see him struggling with the large umbrella under his arm. “There was this old lady trying to cross the street with her groceries so I helped her out.” The blonde smiles, stabbing the umbrella into the ground.
    You laugh, covering your mouth. “What kind of generic excuse is that? Talk about the textbook definition of a hero…” You jest, poking his shoulder.
    “Oi! I take that as a compliment you know!” Kazuo scolds, digging through the bag to start pulling out some of his stuff. He struggles for a moment, seeming to be looking for something before dramatically groaning. “Ah! Crap! I left the bag with our sunscreen in the car!”
    Just as you were about to offer to run and grab it, to your surprise Boros interrupts you before you can speak. “I will go and get it.” He almost demands, and begins to walk to the car.
    “Wait! You need these to unlock it!” Kazuo stops him, throwing the alien his keys who catches them easily.
    The inigo male looks towards you, watching as you send him a smile. “I will return shortly.”
    “Be safe~!” You jokingly waved him off, watching his form disappear into the distance.
    “So you two seem pretty close~! Didn’t know you were into that sort of thing...” Kazuo smoothly says, a knowing look in his eyes and his brows wiggling.
    You sputter slightly, your blush returning twice fold. “W-What’re you talking about… how much did you see?” You squint your eyes at him.
    A shit eating grin crosses Kazuo’s features, eyes filled with evil glee. “Enough to see the two of you hugging like some sort of star crossed lovers…”
    You scoff, crossing your arms and looking away to hide the faint blush that crossed your features. “Oh shut up. Are we not allowed to be good friends? Me and you hug all the time.” You trail off, struggling to come up with something before a mischievous thought crosses you. “What about you and that glasses fellow though?” You retort, stumbling but recovering to wickedly look towards Kazuo who now wore a shocked blush.
    “W-We’re just talking right now!” He stuttered, glaring down at you with a huff.
    You narrow your eyes in victory, a menacing smile widening as you chuckle. “Oh? It didn’t seem that way when you talked about him last… what did you say again? ‘Oh he’s just so smart, and his voice is so sexy!’” Your voice horribly mocks that of kazuo, hands clamped together and placed firmly onto your chest. Swaying your hips as you ‘mimicked’ your ‘love struck’ best friend.
    “I NEVER SAID THAT, NOR DO I ACT LIKE THAT!” Your best friend screeches, face flared up as he hits you on the shoulder. You laugh, rubbing the offended limb before you trail off, noticing two familiar figures walking closer.
    “Oh shit- ok- they’re here.” You mumble, trying to calm yourself as you wave towards Genos and Saitama walking closer to you.
    “Oh, so that’s them? That’s the guy who’s been accused of cheating or something.” Kazuo informs, glancing curiously towards them.
    “Well trust me, he’s not a con.” You quietly say, before a bright grin crosses your features as the duo finally make it up to your spot. “Hey guys!” You cheerfully greet, waving enthusiastically in their direction.
    “Hey.” Saitama greets, waving back as best as he could with the objects in his hand.
    “It’s very nice to see you again, (y/n)-san.” Genos says in turn, giving you a nod smile, which you returned.
    “Guys this is Kazuo, my best friend! Kazuo, this is Genos and Saitama! Saitama is the one I told you about, the one that saved me!” You said, earning a faint flush and huff from Saitama in modesty.
    “It wasn’t a big deal…” He sighed, rubbing the back of his head.
    “Don’t be so modest! You’re amazing Saitama!” You laugh, hearing Genos agree with vigor. Saitama simply shakes his head, not looking you in the eyes with his blush growing ever so slightly deeper.
    “Yes. What they say is wrong about you, Saitama. You’re no fake hero for saving my best friend, so with that I thank you greatly.” Kazuo said respectfully, which earned a small ‘no problem’ from the now adorably bashful hero.
    With the help of his student, the two manage to set a small comfy spot next to you.  “It’s so nice today, I can’t wait to hit the beach!” Kazuo happily let’s out, stretching as he lets the sun hit his pale skin. “I should start tanning, but it’s not everyday that it’s this sunny and warm out at the same time!”
    “I feel you man.” Saitama agreed, taking off his shirt. You couldn’t help but get an eyeful of the man… holy shit. He was ripped. “What’s up?” The male questioned, catching your gaze (and almost catching you drooling).
    At the sudden interruption you correct your posture quickly, laughing in a panicked manner. Saitama seemed oblivious, but Kazuo knew exactly how you felt. Unable to stop from getting an eyeful of Saitama himself. “N-Nothing! Here, let me get the snacks out!” You hurried, jumping to bring the cooler out to the middle between yours and Saitama’s blankets. As you do so Kazuo opens up the umbrella, getting some help from Genos when he begins to struggles.
    “You really like strawberries, huh?” Saitama comments, looking down at the contents of your cooler. Fruit sandwiches, dango, fruit salad, dried fruit… all of which contained strawberries. “Not that there’s anything wrong with it.”
    “Huh? Oh, yeah… I guess you could say that… It's more so my roommate that’s rubbed off on me...” You trail off, rubbing the back of your neck with a light laugh. ‘How the hell am I going to introduce them to Boros? ‘Oh yeah by the way I’m roommates with an alien who destroyed an entire city! Hahahahaha-’ Like hell!!!’ You mentally screamed.
    “By the way… Saitama I have… something to confess.” You said, taking your seat in front of the hero on your towel. You feel Kazuo’s sympathetic gaze on you.
    “What is it?” He asks, voice laid back as he is handed a fruit sandwich. You hand one to Genos as well, who bows politely and thanks you as he also awaits you to speak.
    “Well… uh- you see-” You begin to talk but you find yourself interrupted by the familiar voice of your alien roommate.
    “I apologize for my late return, it was hidden under a seat.” You watch Saitama’s face contort in confusion, obviously recognizing the voice but unable to place it. Genos, however, takes no time to jump up in alarm. Obviously surprised at his inability to detect a creature such as Boros. At seeing his alarm Boros pauses, a sly grin crossing his features much to your dismay. And in turn Genos flares up, hand pointed at the alien and ready to fire.
    “Who are you?” He growls out, eyes locked onto the large figure of the alien lord. 
    You watch as Saitama turns, and for a moment is shocked. “You…” Finally placing the voice with a face, and for the only time in his life remembering the name as well. “You really are strong, I thought you died.” Saitama says in a dull disbelief, quickly getting over it as he stands with a serious expression.
    “You guys need to get out of here, this guy’s dangerous. He’s the one that destroyed A-city.” Saitama said lowly, much to the shock of Genos who only glared harder at Boros. Almost like he was trying to kill him with his gaze alone.
    “It is nice to see you again… Saitama.” Boros greeted slowly, almost as if he was tasting his rival’s name on his tongue. A creepy grin spread across his face making you gape, You’re not making this any better!! Idiot!!
    “Please, sensei, let me handle him!” Genos requested, only to get pushed aside by Saitama.
    “No, you’re not ready yet. I’ll handle him-” The atmosphere was thick, it was going to choke you- you had to stop this. You could tell Saitama was readying to attack, but Boros stood still. Keeping his promise to you, and simply looking intently with amusement at the two heros in front of him.
    “W-Wait!!!” You cry out, startling the duo as you run out in front of Boros, kicking up sand as you dash towards him. Kazuo cries out, hand reaching out to you to stop you but too slow to respond.
    “(y/n)! Wait! Don’t be reckless!” Kazuo hisses, dismay evident on his features.
    “(y/n)-san! Get away from that thing! It’s dangerous, and could harm you!” Genos called out, not expecting your sudden interruption.
    Saitama simply looked at you, his expression softening before growing confused. “(y/n)? What’re you doing?” Kazuo walks up, also placing himself in between the offending groups.
    “Please everyone settle down. Let’s not jump to any harsh conclusions, (y/n) had invited him on purpose.” Kazuo began, doing his best to defuse the situation. “If you just want to take a moment to calm yourselves, that’s understandable. But please let (y/n) explain the situation before any rash decisions are made.” You had the bestest best friend in the world. You were sure of it. Kazuo’s calm and steady voice eased your nerves, removing whatever was in your throat so you could finally speak.
    “I know this looks bad… no. It looks really bad but… please- please understand… I-” Your lip quivered, struggling to remain calm as frustrated tears threatened the corners of your eyes. “I ask you, Saitama. If someone could be forgiven, if they could be given a second chance- even if they do something really really bad… And you said yes!! B-But… only if they wanted to…” Your voice got quieter, scanning his face for anything… any sign of disgust or anger or- or- you didn’t know- but instead you saw him patiently looking back at you.
    Your chest shook, with another hasty inhale. “And I believe that he can do better…” Boros, laying on the ground amidst the wreckage of his ship… his crew dead… he looked so… alone. Like you were, on that night. “He can be better! ” The way Boros looked at Stardust clung to your heart, your thoughts like a vice. So completely brimming with fascination, and gentleness. “You haven’t seen him like I have!” The way Boros looked at you … It made your heart warm, and it made you so happy to see him happy. You felt like you could cry. “So please… I’m not making up excuses for him. Not trying to downplay the terrible things he’s done… Please- Please believe me when I say I see something in him that will make this whole ordeal worth it…”
    “(y/n)-san. Please don’t let this monster fool you, whatever lies he’s been filling your head with-” Genos began, stepping forwards as to remove you from Boros’s proximity but stopped by Saitama. Saitama had simply raised his hand, genos’ metal chest bumping into his unmoving arm, the cyborg whipped his head around to his teacher. “Saitama-sensei! You cannot expect us to simply let her put herself in danger like this! The monster obviously manipulated (y/n)-san’s kind hearted nature to his advantage, cowardly using her as a form of protection!” The blonde’s voice raised, hands clenched into fists.
    “I believe you.” His voice shook you to your core, you had expected anger… confusion, hate, disbelief- all similar to how Genos had been acting. You expected it, and understood it. Genos was well within his right, but Saitama- When you look him in the eyes the unwavering look he gives you.
    “Wh-.... Sensei-” Genos’s voice trails off, staring at his master in almost disbelief before looking at you. You feel him gaze through your soul, but you couldn’t bear to look back.
    “The look in your eyes, it seems familiar. I can’t place it but… I believe you.” A watery smile makes its way across your face, tearing your eyes away from the heros in front of you, you look up to Boros. In the back of your mind you briefly recognize Kazuo’s breath of relief as the tension dies down. Genos’s frustrated ‘tch’ as he walks away briefly.
    “If I may, Saitama.” Boros finally spoke up, Saitama’s features hardened again but he remained silent. The alien took this as the ok to continue. “I have no more selfish desires for a fight as I have before, thus giving me no reason to bring any harm to the denizens of this planet. Furthermore after our last battle… I had expended most of my reserves to recover. But-” Boros’ eye meets yours, and for a brief moment you saw the same look he gives to Stardust and strawberries, before looking back up to the bald hero. “-I would not be alive if not for her. I owe much to her, everything I have and my life. If not more. She has shown me kindness I’ve never known before so… as to say… I am- I am quite fond of this planet, now.”
    Kazuo chuckles, a knowing smile on his face as he shakes his head. “Yeah… only (y/n)-chan can pull off something crazy like this… I need a popsicle…” He sighs as he walks over to the cooler, popping open the lid.
    “Just behave yourself, I won’t hesitate to beat you again if you hurt anyone.” Saitama said seriously, a stern glint in your eyes.
    “Don’t worry, I’ll keep him in line.” You smile, wiping your cheeks. As a last whim you lunge forward to Saitama, wrapping your arms around his chest in a hug. “Thank you.”
    A blush spreads across his cheeks, not used to the affection, he hastily pries himself away in a fit of embarrassment. “D-Don’t worry about it!”
    Boros tilts his head, staring intently at the interaction between the two of you. “That is a display of thanks? Should I do so as well?”
    “I mean if Saitama is ok-”
    “LIKE HELL!!!!”
    Kazuo smiles at the trio, happy to see them a lot more relaxed than before. He takes a bite out of the frozen good in his hand, humming at the mango flavor. Thank god he bought the popsicles, or else Boros’s surprising control over his darling friend would’ve made her get only strawberry.
    Genos couldn’t understand. He tried, he really did- but he couldn’t get it. Boros could hurt her, could hurt others- didn’t she see that? What was it that the alien did to make her care so much about him? How can she-
    “Hey. You alright?” Genos looked up from his absent gaze at the sea, locking eyes with Kazuo.
    “Yes. Just thinking.”
    Kazuo hummed in thought, taking a bite out of his popsicle. Genos watched as the frozen treat began to melt, syrupy drops forming at the end. “Me and (y/n) have been friends ever since pre-school.”
    Genos narrowed his eyes. “What does that have to do with things?”
    “We always walked to school together. And one day, we found a stray dog.” Kazuo turned to stare at the horizon. “It growled at anyone that walked past, and people avoided the alley it holed itself up in like the plague. But when (y/n) saw it she got out her lunch box and tried to feed the thing…” His voice trailed off, scoffing at his own memory.
    “What happened?”
    “It bit her.” Kazuo shook his head. “And she cried, because it hurt. But even when she was crying she got out more of her food and placed it near him. I had to force her to go home, her mother gave us both a good talking to… worried sick. But the next day, with bandages on her hands she gave that dog her lunch. And she did it every day until he followed her home.”
    Genos remained silent, now looking at Kazuo as he told the story.
    “The point is that she’s always been like this. She’s selfish in that she never wants to see someone hurt. Even if they’re mean, or they hurt her, or they do bad things...” Kazuo locks eyes with Genos now, an understanding being formed. “Even when they deserve it.”
    “...I see. I think I understand now.” Genos looks to you, watching as you now sit with Boros and Saitama. The two of you lock eyes, and you smile bashfully towards him waving your hand. “It’s simply in her nature, to be nurturing… to be just that naive.”
    Kazuo laughs. “Yes, she is very much so… isn’t she? But still…” The C-Class pats him on the shoulder, finishing his popsicle and making his way towards the rest of the group. “Give her a chance, she may just surprise you.”
    Genos watched as he walked away, trailing back to you. You smile as you pass out lunch, and he notices a plate left untouched. One for him.
    “She’s doing a good job of that already.”

Chapter Text

“So… what’s with you and strawberries?”
    Boros’s eye glanced to Saitama as he spoke up, mouth full as he shoved the entirety of the strawberry dango into his mouth. “They are pleasing to the senses, sweet but somewhat tangy. It is unlike anything that I have tried on my journey through the cosmos- and I have tried much.”
    “Boros, don’t talk with your mouth full! It’s rude! ...and kinda nasty…” You scolded, mumbling the last part.
    Boros took the moment to swallow his food, nodding his head. “Apologies. You still have many customs and mannerisms that I have to learn in depth.”
    Genos watched from next to Saitama, his face hardened in a glare to Boros. Boros did good to ignore it, apparently very used to the look of hatred but you couldn’t help but worry. The tension puts you on edge, you look to Kazuo looking to see if he feels the same but even he looks relaxed…
    Maybe it had something to do with whatever private conversation they were having earlier?
    “Yeah but won’t you get sick of it?” Saitama deadpans, watching almost with awe as Boros downs an entire fruit sandwich in one bite.
    “No. Never.” The alien replies, thankfully after swallowing.
    “That’s what I keep trying to tell him! But he never listens and worst of all…” You grimace, face contorted in frustrated despair. “He eats it all day everyday, for the past month. And he still hasn’t gotten sick of it- not one bit! He’s eating me out of house and home.”
    Boros gives a light chuckle, looking to you with a smug look on his face. “You are to blame, the treat you gave me on that day got me addicted to it’s taste.”
    The two of you bicker back and forth, Kazuo laughing at the two of you from his spot besides you. Saitama watches on, almost confused.
    "They're talking to each other so casually, after what happened its... kinda weird. But I guess I should be thankful." Saitama mumbles, Genos nods in agreement.
    “Oh! Hey! I got an idea! Why don’t we play water volleyball!” Kazuo beams, hitting his fist into his open palm.
    “Volleyball?” Boros questioned.
    “Yeah! It’s really fun! I saw a sports shop on the way here that probably sells a temp net, but we already got the ball for it!”
    “I used to play a lot of volleyball in my day! I could teach you Boros! You wanna join?” You send your sweetest smile to the two heroes in front of you, faintly you hear Saitama mumble a soft “ah- so bright-” before sighing and shrugging.
    “Yeah why not, but I’ve never played before so you’re going to have to teach me too. Besides, I think it could be fun with all the strong people we have!” A small grin crosses Saitama’s features.
    “I will participate as well.” Genos had said, almost sharply.
    Their responses made your grin grow even wider, clapping your hands together in delight as Kazuo mimicked your expression. “Great! I’ll go get what we need real fast while (y/n)-chan teaches you!”
    “Too bright, it’s hurting my eyes…”
    “Yes.”
    There you stood, ball in hand and hand on your hip as you explained the game to them. “So basically, all you need to do is make sure that the ball doesn’t hit the water on your side of the next, and do your best to make sure that it hits your opponent's side! Simple right?”
    “Yes, I believe I understand it.” Boros nods, standing next to Saitama- who had more of a blank look on his face.
    “Thanks for explaining it simply.”
    “(y/n)-san, aren’t you worried at all?” Genos piped up, golden gaze kept on your form.
    “Eh? What do you mean?” Unconsciously you checked the straps of your bathing suit, confirming that it was secure. Didn’t want this to become some sort of ecchi situation..
    Genos shakes his head. “I mean that, aren’t you worried about this match escalating at all? You’re not exactly playing with normal people.”
    “Ah.” You dead panned, before your eyebrows furrowed in thought, your hand to your chin. “I didn’t think of that- But-” You shake your head, your signature smile reappearing on your face. “I trust you all to go easy on me though I would be lying if I said I wouldn’t mind seeing you all go all out in this! It would be entertaining for me to watch!” You snickered.
    “Yes, this would prove an interesting challenge for me, to face off against you and your disciple, Saitama.”
    “C’mon… I thought this was gonna be just for fun…” Saitama complained.
    “I’m back!!!” A distant call interrupts your conversation, you all look over to see Kazuo running towards you all with a large case in his arms. When he catches up to you all he’s panting. “Fuahh… this was the last one they had too- lucky us! Let’s go set it up!”
    Seagulls cried out in the distance, the sea breeze blowing through your hair as you watched your enemy carefully in front of you. “And begin!” Kazuo calls out, mimicking a whistle blow with his lips.
    You toss the ball up into the air, hands clasped together as you use your wrists to hit the ball over the net.
    Saitama, on the front line, goes for the ball as he ducks slightly to gently hit it back over the net .
    But as it flies over your head, leaving it up to Boros to save it, he jumps high to meet it at its level. Leaving you agape as you watch him spike the ball roughly into the water, a large wave splashing over all three of you below. Though it had scored you a point, it had gotten you wet when you weren’t ready. A large wave crashes into you, spurred on from the impact- causing you to fall over.
    You sputter as you come up from under the water. “Boros!!!”
    Genos wades worriedly over to you, helping you stand back on your feet. “Are you ok, (y/n)-san?” Seeing that you were left wet, but unharmed, he sends a glare to Boros. Who lands in the water with another splash, sending more water in your face again. “You-”
    You angrily move your way to the alien, interrupting Genos as you fume towards your roommate. You hit his chest, your face contorted in anger. “Oi! What the hell was that! I thought we said to go easy! I’m a fragile lady you know! You need to be more conscious of your strength! Stunts like that could get people hurt! Idiot!”
    Boros grimaced, a pensive look on his face much to the shock of the three heroes. Kazuo laughed in the distance, safe on the shore as he watched it all play out. “Play nice now children! That’s a point for team Martian!”
    “I apologize, it won’t happen again.” Boros said softly, bearing the brunt of your oh so brutal attacks to his abdomen.
    You huff, tying your now soaked hair back with a hair tie. “I know I was going to get wet eventually, but I wanted to do it at my own pace… A shock like that is rather unpleasant you know. But- whatever- just try to be easier now... okay?”
    The game continued for a few hours, and you and Kazuo switched places every now and again. Fortunately for you, Saitama seemed to be enjoying himself. Letting out laughs of victory anytime you happened to miss the ball. Genos followed along too, though it seemed he was mostly doing it to humor you, but you appreciated him participating nonetheless
    “Hah! Take this!” You cry out jumping up to spike the ball over the next.
    “As if it would be that easy!” Saitama playfully challenged, diving to hit it back to Genos.
    “Try to get this one.” The cyborg hit the ball, the object soaring over out of your reach once more.
    “Boros!”
    “I got it.” The alien replied, running to hit the ball back over the net. And as it flies over, the sea floor beneath your feet begins to tremble.
    “Eh? An earthquake?” You asked, concerned, watching as Genos catches the ball to look around. There’s a moment of silence before his eyes widened harshly.
    “There’s a large entity coming for us- it seems to be the one causing the earthquakes! It’ll be here any moment! We need to-”
    Waves crashed around you, wind catching up speed as dark clouds began to flood the sky. Unnatural and crackling with lightning, another wave of tremors shook the ground beneath you.
    Behind you, you briefly acknowledge Kazuo calling out your name as you watch the water bulge and contort as some sort of monstrosity emerges from the ocean’s depths. You’re brought out of your trance by strong arms yanking you into a broad chest. Safely holding you above the waves, and before you know it you and everyone else are at the shore.
    “After 1 thousand years… I awaken once more!!!” A booming voice calls out over the rolling thunder, sending literal tremors through your body from the intensity of its volume. “How hungry I am, I wonder where I should start first! GYAHAHAHAHA!” Finally beyond the showers of rain that began in the distance, slowly spreading it’s way over your head, you see in the light of the lighting a large squid looking creature.
    Scales covered the entirety of its malleable body, a multitude of tentacles writhing in the air as it guffaws ungraciously.
    “Let me handle this.” Genos said confidently, Saitama nods his head and not long after you find your hair billowing around you- an intense heat near burning your skin as you move your arms to protect your face. Boros is completely unfazed by the heat it seems, as you manage to catch a glimpse of Genos flying towards the sea monster at high speeds.
    “Woah…” You say in awe, watching the blazing flames billowing out of various cannon like parts on his body. You never really thought of it before, but as a cyborg Genos probably has a bunch of cool parts. “So cool…” You say, a blush faintly makes its way to your cheeks as the four of you watch the battle from the shore.
    “Hahhh?! Who’s this now?! A little fly coming to ruin my long deserved meal?! I’m not much into metallic tastes, but… who am I to be so picky?” Murderous intent practically dripped from the creature like mucus.
    Your eyes could barely keep up, only catching the after image but one moment they weren’t there- and the next 5 tentacles had clasped the air where Genos had once been.

    “Tch. He’s fast, and he hits hard. It would be best to find a weak spot, wherever possible.” Genos mumbled to himself, his eyes lit up as he quickly scanned the creature. “It seems that it is still similar in anatomy to that of a regular octopus, though it has gained a hardened exterior it’s weakest point is right between its eyes. I need to finish this fast, so that no one gets hurt.”
    The machinery inside Genos’s body whirs to life, heating up as fire begins to ignite and illuminates between the plates of his body. Electricity thunders from his shoulders to his palm in bolts, energizing the very air around it. “Inferno Gatling gun.”
    “Where did he- GH?!” The monster’s flesh pooled around from the area of impact, it’s flesh searing from the flames as the smell of grilled calamari being picked up behind the salt of the sea.
    In a flash Genos appeared in front of the creature, who’s tentacles instinctively went to protect the area of impact from further damage leaving it’s face wide open. “What?! How did you-?!”
    Genos’s shoulder jets burst with power, propelling him at breakneck speeds towards the creatures weak spot. “Jet Drive Arrow.” Leg incineration cannons kick into high gear, a sonic wave thundering across the ocean causing the water to bend around it. Large waves crash violently around them as the crack of sound rings through your ears, reminding you of a volcanic eruption.
    As Genos’s attack makes contact at its mark, the octopus monster’s face disgustingly caves in with it, the blow pushing the enemy back but then-
    “Hah. Just kidding~!” A sickening crunch sound rings, warning signs flashing all over Genos’s hud. He's sent back from the creature's face with a flurry of tentacles.
    “Damn that fucking hurt, but not only does my natural external mucus that coats my skin protect me from fire- but my natural flexibility and lack of bone structure makes me more resistant to blunt attacks like that. You’re going to have to do better than that!”
    Genos looks down.
    Sparking wire, leaking tubes, blades of broken metal...
    His right arm is gone.
    In his brief moment of lack of focus, he is sent flying. Skidding across the ocean waters before he uses his canons to realign himself. Hovering above the water as he panted harshly.

    “Oh god! Is he okay?!” You cried out, trying to release yourself from Boros’s grip but he held on tightly.
    “I’m not letting you go, you could get hurt.” Boros said softly, holding you closer as frustrated tears pricked your eyes.
    “He’s hurt! We have to help him!” You argued, pounding your fists on his shoulder.
    “Trust him, (y/n). He said he can handle this, so don’t worry. He’s a hero.” Saitama said, watching the fight in front of him intently.
    You deflated, letting your head fall on Boros’s chest. “I-.... I know- but… it’s not fair. I don’t like this.”
    "He will be okay. He is Saitama's disciple, he will handle this." Boros comforted.
     In the distance you hear that voice again, an announcement going through the city to evacuate the area. You hear people screaming, terrified for their lives, they were all running to the city.
    "We need to get out of here!" Kazuo calls out. "It's not safe!"
    "I'm not leaving until I know that Genos is safe!" You yelled back, eyes hardened. Kazuo stares back, trying to think of some way to sway you... but he knew that look in your eyes all too well.
    "I will protect her from harm, but if she wishes to stay... I will not refuse her." Boros spoke up, low voice somehow being heard clear over the chaos around them.
    "I... I know... But if you're all staying then I'm staying too. So watch out for me too ok?"
    Boros nods. "You have my word."
    Saitama watches silently from the side, a blank look on his face. Deep in thought as he stares at you. There was that look again, in your eyes.

    “I assumed that since he could speak he had some sort of intelligence but he just exposed his biggest flaw.” Genos spoke, gears whirring to life once more as the air around him heats him. The metal of his body grows redder with heat. “Let’s go again.”
    The air crackles around him, dodging tentacle after tentacle. Closing the distance quickly. He reels his arm back to prepare an attack before gasping in shock as he barely manages to avoid a slobbering acid ball sent his way. Just barely hitting his shoulders he watches as the acidic mucus easily eats away at his metal. He flies through the air, avoiding the corrosive substance at high velocity before taking a sharp turn aiming for the monster’s weak point once more.
    His fingers come together, the metal plates of his tips extending to a sharp point as all of his incinerator canons propel him towards his target. “Jet Drive Lance.”
    This time Genos propels straight through the creature, all of his overwhelming power focused on one point easily striking through the entirety of the monster.

    The octopus monster lets out a gurgled scream, stomach churning as it’s blood spills out in rivers- staining the ocean water. “But… I was….” The last pathetic words it echoed, before crashing down back into the depths of the sea.
    Genos watched the spot, scanning the area to assure it was dead. When he found the situation to be resolved, he flew back to the shore. “The threat is taken care of, I will quickly send a report to the-”
    You watch with horror, noticing the state of Genos’s body. You rip yourself from Boros’s arms, nearly falling as you kick up sand to reach the cyborg. “Genos!”
    “(y/n)-san, what’s-?” Genos stops himself, eyes widening as he sees the look in your eyes. Welled with tears and filled with fear. “It’s okay, there was no need to be scared. I took care of the threat- besides. Even if I had failed Saitama-Sensei would have taken care of  him.” He says softly, trying to reassure you.
    “But Genos-!” Your voice chokes, tears now falling down your face. “Your arm! Y-Your chest!” You sob. “You’re hurt! I-I-!!”
    “I don’t know how to help you!” You wail, wanting to skim your fingers over the damage but you hold your hand back. Somehow scared you'd make it worse.
    Genos chokes on his own voice, eyes widen in almost violent shock as he watches you cry- for his sake. Something so pointless to cry over- he could get a new arm- hell a new body in the next 24 hours but here you were crying… for him. His face softens, as he places his good hand on your head. Gently patting your head.
    “Please don’t cry, (y/n)-san. It doesn’t hurt, I know it looks scary but Dr. Kuseno will patch me up. I’ll be ok, I’m just glad you’re safe.” His voice is warm, and his eyes that usually remind you of a blazing fire now sooth you like a flickering campfire. Warm and inviting.
    You sniffle pathetically, violently wiping away your tears as the rain continued to pour around you all.
    “(y/n)-chan… I think it’s time for us to find some shelter while Genos goes to repair himself.” Kazuo said softly, placing his hand on your shoulder.
    Genos hummed, nodding in agreement. “I’ll be fine, I’ll head over there straight away.”
    “O-...” You took a breath, heart rate relaxing. You got yourself together, you couldn’t keep being a cry baby like this. If you couldn’t help him, you would at least support him. “Okay! But as soon as you’re better you call me! And then we can go and eat some more ramen together!” You gave him a bright smile, a sudden warm feeling flooding your chest- you find yourself unable to stop smiling as tears pricked your eyes once more.
    Genos was taken aback. Go get ramen? Just the two of them? Like... Like a d-
    “ Believe it or not I'm a great cook! Saitama! You can come too! Don't tell the old man at the ramen shop but I figured out his secret ingredient." You smile cheekily.
    'Oh.'
    "Ehhh? Are you not going to invite me?!" Kazuo cried out, poking you in the chest as a mock threat.
    "Hm... I don't know... Maybe." You cheekily say, humming in mock thought.
    "First you're crying like a baby, now you're acting like a brat!"
    You laugh, cheeks warm as you look towards the rest of them with unconditional warmth in your eyes. "I can't help it... I'm just so happy and thankful to be surrounded by such kind and incredible people..."
     'You've got it wrong... (y/n).' Genos thought to himself, gaze fixated on to you. 'It's me who should be thankful, for someone as kind as you to cry for me... It's selfish but- I'm happy.'

    As the mood lightened, Genos, as promised, left immediately to get repairs from the doctor. Saitama had promised to remind Genos to call you, though you doubt that it’s Genos who needed to be reminded.
    “Alright, I’ll call you later (y/n)-chan! Have a good night!” Kazuo waved from his car, he had offered to help carry everything inside but Boros insisted on doing it himself.
    “Bye! See ya later!” You reply, shutting the door with a long sigh. Banging your forehead against the door you slide down onto your knees.
    “Are you okay? Do you need help?” Boros questioned, squatting down to your level.
    “MM… I’m just… God- what a day.” You banged your head against the door, dramatic tears rolling down your cheeks. “Why can’t I just have a normal life? I’m a young woman! I’m in my prime! I shouldn't be getting gray hairs from worrying like this! I'll age prematurely- What the hell kind of beach trip was this?!"
    “You are overreacting now.” Boros said plainly, voice deadpan as he tilted his head. Watching you pathetically grovel.
    “IT’S ALL YOUR FAULT!!!”

    “So that’s her?”
    “Yes. It appears she is harboring some kind of monster. His threat level and power is unknown, as he has yet to cause trouble. S-Class Rank 14, Demon Cyborg, as well as B-Class rank 63, both seem to be aware of his existence. And also seem to have history with the monster, nothing else has been revealed to us thus far.”
    “Hmm… is that so?” Golden eyes narrow, a picture of you on a hologram in front of them.”Do you believe she could be trying to control him? To use him as a weapon?”
    “From what we’ve observed so far, oddly enough she treats him as a roommate. From our time observing her we haven’t seen her or him leave to train or to test his abilities in combat.”
    “It could be she already knows what he’s capable of… Perhaps waiting for the right time? Though why is she treating him the way she is now? To manipulate him? Perhaps…” The person sighs, leaning back in his chair almost lazily.
    “We will keep a close eye on her, and inform you of anything new that comes up.”
    A hand waves him away, as the underling quickly exits the room the figure hums in thought bringing the picture a bit closer with a beckoning of his hand.
    “(y/n) (y/l/n)... I wonder what kind of mess you’ve found yourself in?”

Chapter Text

“Hey, (y/n). Check this video out!”

    You and Kazuo had been hanging out at your place on one of his days off, deciding to simply watch a movie together- though unfortunately the movie proved to be unbearably boring even to Boros’s intensely curious standards. Said alien found more entertainment in the newspaper he was now glossing over. What an old man.

    “Hm? What is it?” You questioned, leaning over to glance at the platinum blonde’s phone in piqued interest.

    In the video you see countless flying robots, large mouths eating away at some rubble, and in the background- which the recorder soon pans up to observe better- looks to be a ‘walker’ from Moon Battles.

    “Woah… is this the new Moon Battles movie or something?” You said in awe, leaning closer to the phone- forcing Kazuo to pull it away from your face with a laugh.

    “Even cooler! This is Metal Knight in action! Aka like, THE coolest hero. Right before Genos maybe!” The hero laughed, watching as the camera guy tripped backwards as one of the robots somehow snuck up behind him. Wincing slightly as he could just imagine all the rock digging into the guy’s butt.

    “Woah… really?! This is like, so cool! Metal knight must be a nerd too, I mean he has to be to make stuff like that!”

    “Wanna know something else? He rebuilt ALL of A-city in like- 7 days!!! A week! To rebuild an entire city!” Kazuo gushed, like the little fanboy he was. A small ‘so efficient’ left you lips as you nodded in excitement along with him. “Way better than that lame ‘Amai Mask’ all he cares about is his image and fame.” He rolled his eyes, a grimace on his face at the recollection of the pretty hero. 
   
    Your blood ran cold, thoughts instantly flooding back to the day you met Boros. The smell of citrusy copper, the look on Amai Mask’s face- the look in his eyes was chilling and- the weird purple liquid splattered everywhere- the ground, the walls, on you- 

    “I know you like him ‘cause he’s handsome or whatever but really-” Kazuo paused, noticing how your face lost color and you began trembling lightly. “(y/n)? Hey, hey, what’s wrong?” His voice was soft and comforting and he scooted closer, wrapping his arms around you gently.

    The contact snapped you out of whatever haze you were in, blinking your eyes to bring yourself back to reality. “Oh- I- I just… Sorry. I just spaced out for a moment there but…” You trailed off for a moment, the concerned look in your friend’s eyes never leaving you features. “You’re wrong, I don’t like Amai Mask anymore.”

    Kazuo pulled away, a confused expression on his features. “Oh… uh… ok. Hey- if you need to talk I’m here.” Kazuo comforted, not convinced that’s all you had to say after seeing you in that brief state.

    You smiled warmly, shaking your head. “I’m fine, it’s just-” There’s really no point in hiding it from him. “I just saw… him do some scary stuff after Boros’s attack on City A. And I’m not usually one to judge people but the look in his eyes…” You trailed off, a shiver crawling up your spine. “It was really scary, like I was looking into the eyes of a heartless monster- or… a predator looking at prey.”

    “Yeah, if I saw something like that I’d be scared shitless too." Kazuo rubbed your back gently, you let yourself enjoy the warmth of his body heat for a moment before pulling back.

    "I'm fine now, I'd just rather not go to one of his fan meet ups!" You light heartedly joke, causing Kazuo to laugh along with you.

    "Luckily he's way too busy sucking up to care about the little guys like us, so let's not worry about him alright?"

    A warm smile pulls up the corner of your lips, already feeling the anxiety of past events melt away. What were you worried about? You had so many good people surrounding you. "Yeah! Sounds good to me."

    “(y/n).” Boros called out, drawing your attention away from your best friend.

    “Yeah?” You replied, looking behind you to see Boros holding the newspaper you bought him.

    “I have a request.”

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
   
    You fixed Boros’s hair into a bun, with the help of three soft scrunchies, and smiled in victory. You walk around to face him from the front, a warmth welling up in your chest as you look at him. “Wahhh… So handsome!” You coo, clasping your hands together at your chest as you felt proud with your achievement.

    Boros’s hair, thanks to your continuous care and maintenance of it, was now surprisingly easy to manage despite it’s naturally spiky appearance. Though the alien didn't seem to enthused by your sudden forced beauty regimen, he never made any moves to stop you. Boros sighed slightly and stared at you, tilting his head. “Are you done?”

    “Yes, yes, we can leave now…” You hurriedly grabbed your cartoon mini backpack, throwing it over your shoulders and double checking for your necessities. “You know, it’s unlike you to request a specific place to go to. You usually have me choose where we head out! It’s a nice change of pace!” You beamed, walking out with your roommate and locking the door behind you.

    “This is the first time something has interested me so. Though I have long given up my quest to find the perfect opponent, as I have already found Saitama , I am still curious to see how the rest of Earth's warriors compares to it's greatest. Though now that I am on that train of thought..."
   
     You hummed questioningly, tilting your head. “Hm? What is it?”

    “In the fight with Saitama the armor that I wore that was specifically crafted to contain my power was completely destroyed. The only thing I have remaining are these.” Boros pulled his hood back, revealing the glittering golden earrings he wore. And upon closer inspection they seemed cracked.

    “Do those keep your power in check too?”

    Boros nodded. “Somewhat. Nothing to the scale of my armor, but they oppress it slightly. Their main function is actually to conceal my presence. Since it would be easy to detect me from hundreds of miles away due to my energy. I am simply thinking that I will have to eventually reveal myself to the hero association, since I do not have my usual equipment.”

    Your brows furrowed in worry. "Will that be ok? What if they hurt you? Or like... capture you to experiment on you?" You wince, anxious thoughts clouding your mind.

    Boros shakes his head. "Do not worry, I will 'remain underneath' for as long as possible, but it is something we will have to prepare for." Boros explained. You had a feeling this topic might arise, but you didn't like thinking about it. "But for now, as long as I at least have these, we should be good for the time being."

    "I guess that's why the hero association hasn't come knocking on our door sooner, because the earrings hide your energy from those machines that detect them like what Genos has?" You ask, only knowing this stuff thanks to Genos's endless patience and leniency with your countless questions about him and his cyborg self.

    Boros nodded. “I am aware that humans need special equipment to detect energy output, where monsters have instinct, some alien species such as myself are able to detect it naturally.” He explained, his eye suddenly darting out to the other side of the street.

    "

    He was silent for several moments before making eye contact with you. “There is someone following us.”

    You paused, looking past Boros to see if you could find the person he was talking about. Were they trying to hurt you? Had the Hero's association already found out about Boros?

    “They don’t seem to be preparing to make a move, especially now since they know I’ve noticed them. Do not leave my side and you will have nothing to be concerned about.” Boros stated, eye softening as you could tell he tried to let his gaze and presence comfort you. You couldn’t help but sigh and smile.

    “I mean my roommate is so handsome and strong anyways, it only makes sense that you’d already have fans!” You tried to brush off your unease, successfully managing to for the time being. Whatever the two of you faced in the future you knew you'd get through it , because you knew Boros would protect you.

    You just wished you could've felt more confident about protecting him.

    "Don't say such useless things." He grunted, swiftly looking away from you to the sidewalk ahead. But yet he seemed pleased with the praise and if you looked close enough...

    You could’ve sworn you saw him blush.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    “He knows.” The figure spoke quietly, hidden in an alleyway behind a trash can. His mouth close to a watch-like device on his wrist.

    The watch crackled slightly, as the person on the other end let out a ‘tch’. “Follow at a further distance.” They started. “If you notice either of them make a move towards you, retreat.”

    “Understood.”

    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---

    “Two tickets please!” You beamed, slamming the cash (politely) onto the counter in your excitement.

    The cashier paled, sweating nervously as he eyed Boros who stood behind you- unknowingly intimidating as he simply looked back to the cashier. ‘How the hell can I tell them that we don’t have any normal seats left?! That guy will seriously kill me!!!’ The cashier cried internally, finally making up his mind to pull out two front row seat tickets.

    “H-H-Here you g-g-go mmm-miss.” The employee stuttered out, shakily handing you the tickets as he struggled not to make anymore eye contact with the alien.

    You, blissfully unaware, take the tickets happily. And Boros, blissfully not caring, takes one of the tickets from you into his big hand. “Thanks so much! C’mon! I wanna go see some people get beat up!” You cackled, grabbing Boros by the hand and dragging him through the crowd, though the two of you had little problems with Boros’s size.

    The poor guy gawked behind you, watching as this small lady basically manhandled this monster (not really). He, soon after, sighed in relief as he watched them disappear through the arena entrance, he’ll make sure to treat his life more preciously. Thankful he managed to live another day, barely managing to avoid death (again, not really).

    “So let’s see… our seats are- huh?” You paused, looking closer at the tickets in hand. “Oh… I think the guy accidently gave us the premium seats. They’re more than what I paid for them…” Boros looks curiously at the ticket he’s holding, confirming it with the ‘premium seat- a-6’ on the front of the ticket. “Oh well! I guess he was just so swayed by my femme-fatale charms that he decided to be nice to us!” You jokefully boasted.

    The entrance to the arena was large, with food booths lining the sides of the hall. Lines formed in front of each as the classic smell of deadly but oh so delicious fast food wafted through the air. The crowd was filled with diversity, since apparently watching pro martial artists pummel each other was fun for folks of all kinds.

    “You wanna get pizza? Or what about hot dogs? Oh oh oh- Actually- look!” Your attention frantically moved around, before finally pointing towards the holy grail of ‘I-want-to-get-a-heart-attack’... Deep fried hamburgers. They even stuck little pickles on the sides with toothpicks to make it look like a little car. How cute!

    Boros immediately grimaced, an unsure look on his face. “The smell alone makes me nauseous. Though I am always willing to expand my palate, I believe I will have to forgo this experience.” He muttered to you, causing you to groan.

    “Will it be greasy? Sure. Will it clog up my arteries? Most definitely! Will it be nasty? Probably!” You take a moment to process your own words, several moments pass before you raise your hand to your chin in contemplation. “Actually the more I think about it, deep fried hamburgers doesn’t seem like the best idea…” You mumble.

    Both you and Boros stand there, staring at the giant burger being held over a vat of bubbling oil on the big billboard above the joint- it’s googly eyes staring into your soul. 'Eat me.' It says. 'You have to try me at least once!' The temptation hissed in glee. 'But by then... you'd already be addicted!' It cackled.

    You hum and narrow your eyes, a stare down with the monstrous food mascot began. The intense battle of wills, electricity buzzing through the air.

    “Wanna just get takoyaki?”

    “That sounds pleasant.”

    “Thank you! Come again!” The kind old man cheerfully waved you off, a small plate of fresh takoyaki held in your hand as you politely waved back. Feeling both reckless and hungry you shove one into your mouth whole.

    “Ah! Hot hot hot!” You whine, covering your open mouth as you huffed to try and cool the magma in your mouth.

    “Be careful, don’t forget your own fragility.” Boros said as he reached to grab one from his own larger plate, popping one into his mouth with no issues.

    You glare in envy, darn this alien.

    “KYAAAAAAAAAA!!!!”

    You and Boros both perked up, noticing a large crowd of women further down the hall, looking on curiously. “Hey? What’s going on? Can you see?”

    “A large group of women appear to be in formation to harass a lone man.” Boros informed, getting a decent view from his staggering height.

    “Ah… Must be a flock of fangirls.” You nodded solemnly.

    “Fangirls?”

    “They’re dangerous! Deadly, even!” You say, way too seriously. “They stalk and obsess over idols, and will go to any lengths for them. Though they individually are weak, their true strength lies in numbers! Mob mentalities are a powerful weapon.” You inform, watching as the alien seems to pause in thought. Then- a sudden look of recognition flashes in his eyes.

    “Like a swarm of piranhas.”

    You nodded. “Yeah. Exactly like that Boros. Though I wonder… who’re they fawning over?”

    Off in the crowd a dark skinned martial artist smiled charmingly, posing for the cameras with two girls clinging to each side of him. After, he accepted two small slips of paper- sending the girls a wink and smiling wider as he watched them giggle happily.
   
    “Alright, enough pictures for now! But I gotta go win!” Suiryu waved, flashing his famous boyish charm to the crowd of whining fans. “Don’t worry though! I’ll see you all after the tournament!”

    The pro fighter whistled happily as he continued to walk towards the wing for the fighters, form lax with his arms over his head. “Huh? That guy’s huge!” He muttered in awe, eyeing a certain 8ft hooded figure. The martial artist stared at him from the distance, ignoring the fans whispering from around him, the guy gave off a weird vibe that made his gut clench. ‘Is he participating in the tournament?’

    Suiryu jogged over to the hooded figure, noticing him talking to a cute looking girl with a plate of takoyaki in each other's hands. “Hey! Are you participating in the tournament?” He called out, watching as the cutie looked to him with a questioning gaze.

    “Boros I think someone’s calling out to you…” You mumbled, stepping closer to him.

    “Hm.” Was all he replied with, not turning to face the contestant even as he heard him approaching from behind.

    “Did you hear me? I asked if you were one of the contestants! And hello to you miss~!” Suiryu’s attention switched to you, winking at you with a smirk.

    “A-Ah… yes. Hello! But I think you’re mistaken, my friend here isn’t a martial artist!” You sweat, smiling politely as you shake his head.

    “Really? But he gives off the vibes of someone who fights! Are you like a gangster or something?” Suiryu questioned, tilting his head inquisitively. Though he seemed disappointed at the lack of a response.

    “Nope! No gangsters here! Just two perfectly normal law abiding citizens!” You force a laugh, all the while Boros seems completely uninterested and instead seems more enamored with the dessert shop across the way- conveniently having strawberry shortcake on display.

    “I’m Suiryu by the way.” The martial artist stepped a little closer to you, flashing a flirtatious smirk. “And I was wondering if by chance once I win this tournament you’d go on a date with me?”
   
    You gape at this guy’s straight forwardness, though you had to admit he’s got some moves. Boros now seems interested. “Suiryu?” The alien muttered, finally turning to face him- toothpick between his lips as he ate another takoyaki ball.

    The martial artist’s eyes widened, taking a step back. “What the hell? A monster?”

    Furiously you shake your head, stepping between Suiryu and Boros. “No no no. No monster. My friend here is completely harmless and just looks different from other people, right Boros?”

    Said ‘harmless different looking person’ simply looked down at your smaller frame, taking the toothpick from between his teeth and letting it fall on his plate. He met the eyes of the wary participant with indifferent passiveness.

    “I heard you’re the champion of the tournament, I’m looking forward to seeing your skills against the other participants.”

    “So if you’re not a monster what are you?” Suiryu narrowed his eyes, though monsters weren’t really his problem that didn’t mean he’d let them ruin this tournament for him.

    Boros seemed to ponder his answer for a moment. “A monster implies a human who has been corrupted to the point of breaking their limits through negative emotion.”  Boros spoke, as if citing a book. He probably was, with all the researching you see him do. “But I was never human to begin with, nor have I ever undergone any monstrous transformation from my original form, and my limits have never been broken…”

    Suiryu was lost, lips quivering as he laughed in disbelief. “So… what? Are you an alien or something?”

    “Yes.” Boros said simply.

    “B-But he’s actually a good guy! A big softie really!” You piped up, calling Boros a ‘softie’ made him huff all the while Suiryu sent back a bright grin in return. He definitely doesn’t buy it.

    “I have to wonder why a pretty girl like you hangs out with a guy like this though? You know, if you ever get scared you can always run into my arms and I’ll protect you~!” Suiryu cooed, opening his arms with a cocky tilt of the head.

    A blush crossed your cheeks, and eyes widening in shock. This guy was exposing all of your weaknesses.

    Romantic Attention.

    This guy was good, he somehow read that you were weak to compliments and was using this to his advantage. You had to fight back before you were defeated, but the only thing you did was gape like a fish as you flusteredly struggled to form words.

    “There’s no need.” Boros said roughly, grabbing your shoulder and pulling you closer to him. Your back hit his waist, and you craned your neck to look up at him in a ‘what the hell’ motion but stopped when you saw how intently he was looking at Suiryu.

    The alien bent his frame slightly, leaning over your shoulder slightly so that his eye was now more level with that of Suiryu’s own, who- after recovering from the initial shock of seeing Boros- now looked back at him cockily. “She is sufficiently protected by my side, you’re too weak.” Boros deadpanned, causing you to choke on your own spit.

    “Boros! That’s so rude!” You couldn’t really argue. Boros was a god level threat, but he didn’t have to point it out like that.

    “Oh?” Suiryu’s eyes narrowed, a determined look on his face. “Then after all this how about you and me fight? Whoever wins gets to date her!”

    “Don’t just use me as a prize without my permission!” You protest futility.

    “Ok.”

    “WHAT?!” That’s it, you’ve had enough. Your face is scarlet, your heart is racing, and your pride is broken. “That’s it! We’re gonna be late, we have to hurry to our seats!” You fume from embarrassment, turning to push Boros towards the door to the seating area.

    “Hey wait! Cutie! I never got your name!” Suiryu calls out, but you’re already too far away to hear him. Either that or you just flat out ignored him. “Hmmm… this is fun!” He laughed to himself.

    “What a guy… so unashamedly bold!” You stress, still trying to recover from the onslaught of flirting. Your heart wasn’t cut out for this.

    “He annoyed me.”

    “By calling you a monster… right?” You looked up at Boros with empathetic eyes. “If it makes you feel better I don’t think you’re a-”

    “I don’t care about that.” Boros cut you off ruthlessly, face completely blank but from his stiff posture you could tell whatever it was that he did peeved him.

    You gaped, thrown away from your potential heartfelt moment. “Then what was it then?”

    “He was trying to court you.” Boros paused. “And I didn’t like it.”

    “Oh…” You mumble, now at a loss for words. Was he just looking our for you as a friend… or maybe…?

    “(y/n)-san?” Came a familiar voice from behind you as you and Boros walked down the steps. You turn to happily meet the face of Genos.

    “Genos! What’re you doing here?” You questioned. “I didn’t know you were a fan of martial arts!”

    “I’m not. It’s just that Saitama-sensei is participating under an alias.” Genos informed, before pretending to just notice Boros’s presence, who simply ate a takoyaki ball in response. “And it seems like you brought… him… too.”

    “Boros if you keep eating yours you’ll have none left for the match.” You lean close to him to scold softly, before turning back to Genos. “Well actually it was Boros’s idea to come in the first place! Said he wanted to get a feel for the rest of Earth’s fighters! Or something like that…”

    Genos nodded, eyeing Boros suspiciously. “I see. What tickets do you have? Perhaps we have a seat close to one another?”

    “I have seat a-5! Boros here is a-6.”

    “Oh.” Genos softly said, looking down at his own ticket. “Coincidentally enough I have seat a-4.”

    “Woah!! Really?! How lucky!” You cheer, giving a little fist bump. “Now we can all cheer Saitama on together.”

    “Saitama would not need it, in fact I think he may just be disappointed from the lack of challenge in this tournament.” Boros said, following as you skipped along to your seats to sit down.

    For once Genos seemed to nod in agreement. “Indeed. Master is definitely the strongest, and will surely win. He seemed excited to experience martial arts.”

    “Really? Saitama excited about something? That’s not a sale?” You said in suspicion as you finally took your seat, popping the delicious battered octopus ball in your mouth before over hearing a couple of other spectators behind you.

    “I heard that the prize money was 3 million!”

    “What?! Really?! Man… what I’d give to have 3 million…”

    ‘Ah… so that’s the real reason.’ 

Chapter Text

     You were having a hard time believing what you were seeing.

     When the contestants initially walked out you had been impressed with how strong they all looked, Boros had some choice critiques of course but that was a given since he was a warrior himself. However, when Saitama walked out…

     “Next up… We have a man who asked that no one goes for his head on the surveys we handed out. Did he really come here to fight?!”

     “As expected, it’s easy to tell the massive power gap just by looking at him next to those weaklings,” Boros stated, nodding his head as it was obvious.

     “Right, yeah- of course… but…” You trailed off, eyes locked on Saitama. Or rather the ugly wig sitting horribly on top of his head. “Seriously it looks like it’ll fall off at any second- HE’S ADJUSTING IT!!!” You gape. If you would’ve known earlier he was going ‘incognito’ here you would’ve helped him out. 

     The crowd began booing much to your and Boros’s surprise. “What?? The fight didn’t even start yet!” You say in disbelief before your attention is brought toward the giant sitting next to you.

     “If they were able to sense the massive gap between him and the others they would not be booing as such,” Boros muttered, eyes focused on Saitama. “This will not even be close to a challenge for him.”

     “Correct. Sensei is far above anyone.” Genos speaks up.

     As the three of you stand up to clap for Saitama, showing him as much encouragement as possible, you can’t help but be thankful that these two have one thing in common.

     “Is that the S-Class hero Genos?”
     “I guess he likes Martial Arts too…”
     “Who’s that massive guy right next to him?”
     “Is he a hero too?”
     “I guess that girl must be with them then… I saw them talking.”
     “Wait is she on a date with Genos?”

     You didn’t seem to notice any of the muttering behind you, too focused on waving to Saitama who seemed to have spotted you right next to Genos. Boros on the other hand did in fact notice. Feeling annoyed he cast a territorial glare towards the on-lookers unable to keep their mouths shut. The gossip was quickly silenced, cold sweat and nervous glances aimed at Boros gave him satisfaction as he looked back toward the arena just as the final contestant had walked out.

     “And we have another unrivaled contender! He’s returning for the first time in several tournaments- the young legend who managed to win four times in a row- Suiryu from the Dark Body Art!” The announcer spoke, the crowd roaring to life as Suiryu gave a small ‘yay!’ and raised his fist just further exciting the crowd.

     “I’m excited to see what sort of moves Suiryu has! I’ve seen a lot of martial arts in movies and stuff, so I wonder what the ‘dark body' art is.” You smiled, eating more of your takoyaki. Luckily you were smart enough to save most of it for the actual tournament. When you didn’t receive a reply from Boros, you glanced over in his direction only to see him staring longingly at your takoyaki. “You ate all of yours huh?” You shake your head and laugh lightly. “I told you not to eat it all so quickly.”

     Boros huffed, looking away dejected. You knew that you shouldn’t give in. Spoiling him so much would only lead to him wanting more… but… “Alright. Fine. Here you can have some of mine.” You felt your will cave in, crushed under the weight of the happy gaze Boros gave you as you offered him a takoyaki ball. He leaned forward with a small ‘ah’, much to your delight, and bit the takoyaki right off your toothpick. You felt your heart squeeze briefly. “So cute…” You mutter to yourself, this guy had natural skill.

     “May I have one too?” Genos blurted, surprising you.

     “A takoyaki ball?” You clarify, getting a nod back in response. Smiling happily you give him a ‘sure’ as you stick the toothpick in the next delicious little octopus ball and offer it to him. Boros watched carefully from the other side of you, not that you noticed. Originally you were expecting Genos to simply take the toothpick in its entirety and eat the food that way. Yet you can only look on in shock as Genos mimics Boros, leaning forward with a small ‘ah’ and eating it right then and there.

     Your brain short circuits, processing what Genos had done. Yes, Boros did the same thing not moments earlier, but it’s something you’ve come to expect from him lately. Genos… on the other hand…

     “Thank you, (y/n)-san.” He flashed you a small smile. “I’m glad I was able to meet you here and watch sensei in the tournament with you”

     You were able to reply when you felt a large figure loom over your shoulder. You didn’t even have to look up to know how it was, but you still did nonetheless. Watching as Boros shot Genos a pointed look. “Don’t forget that I’m here as well. Pupil.” He says flatly, and even you could sense the slight edge in his voice.

     Genos shot back a smug look of his own. “Sorry. I had forgotten.”

     Though you were about to go in and break the tension between the two, you luckily didn’t have to as the announcer interrupted you three to announce the start of the tournament.

     Suiryu had moved with skill and confidence, knocking Lightning Max out in one swift hit. You had cheered along with the rest of the crowd, hearing a small hum from Boros. “That was so cool he was just like ‘pow’ and then ‘boom’!” You exclaimed impressed. Though you did feel a bit bad for Max, if you remember he was knocked out pretty swiftly against that sea king monster that showed up a few months ago.

     “Yes. I’m slightly impressed at the skills he possesses.” Boros agree, eating from a bowl of popcorn you bought from a wandering vendor in the arena.

     “He might be able to show Saitama the martial arts skills he seemed so interested in,” Genos says yet a moment later his attention is brought down to buzzing in his phone. He flipped it open smoothly, examining the contents for a few seconds before closing it with a scoff.

     “Is there something wrong?” You ask quizzically.

     “No it’s just… it seems there are a few monsters that had popped up nearby…” He trailed off, flinching slightly as he saw the smug look on Boros’s face.

     “Aha… It seems that the duties of a hero call out to you. Such a shame, I’ll be sure to tell you all about the match.” Boros mocked, eye half-lidded with a shit-eating grin spread across his handsome features.

     Genos let out a ‘tch’, a vein visibly forming along his temple as a strained smile took over his expression. Annoyance was visible yet his voice was misleadingly level. “Don’t worry. I’ll be back shortly to watch sensei’s match with (y/n)-san as soon as I dispose of the trash.” More emphasis was placed on the word ‘trash’.

     Seriously… what’s going on… the words pop up in your mind as you can do nothing but laugh awkwardly and try and break the tension. Time to use my hidden skill… “Don’t worry I’m sure you’ll be back soon after you beat up those monsters, you’re strong after all!” Your ‘hidden skill’ was acting ignorant to the atmosphere to try and lighten the mood… it worked surprisingly often.

     Seeing your bright smile and the little thumbs up you had given him in encouragement, Genos faltered for a moment before smiling warmly. “I’ll be back soon so I don’t disappoint you.” Waving you goodbye as he went toward the exit, but not before flashing Boros the same smug grin as earlier.

     Hearing Boros clicks his tongue in annoyance you look over at him sternly. “I told you to try and get along with Genos!” You scold, only earning a roll of his eye and a huff.

     “It’s not my fault. He started it by getting too comfortable with you.” The alien leaned back, gaze focused on the empty arena as they began to prepare for the next battle.

     At his words, a blush flared up on your cheeks. You weren’t too ignorant. You knew how that looked and you couldn’t deny it. “But it’s really not like that. Genos was probably just being friendly.” You tried to reason- but even you had trouble believing what you said. No way. Get those thoughts out of your head! You’re not some protagonist in fanfiction for crying out loud!

     “Too friendly, I don’t like it. He should stay away.” You felt something squeeze your heart, you couldn’t help it. Even though this was all in your head. Definitely all in your head. You couldn’t help but like the protective tone in his voice. Seriously… what was wrong with you?

     You watched in awe as Saitama and Suiryu both defeated their opponents in one blow. One by one, one fight after another until eventually there was only one fight left… Suiryu vs Saitama. ‘I wonder where Genos is? Hopefully, he’s alright… his hero duties must be taking him longer than expected.’ You think to yourself, purposefully choosing not to mention it to Boros to not bring back any of the previous smugness. You and Boros were both looking forward to this fight, even though the victor was clear to you both you couldn’t help but want to see these two insanely strong people go head to head.

     “You’re not the only one looking forward to the fight,” Boros noted, head tilted as he observed Suiryu who was currently drinking some water and talking to what seemed to be a referee.

     “I know, you must be excited too! To see Saitama-”

     “No. I meant that long-haired human.” Boros interrupted, causing you to look over to where he was looking.

     “Oh? Do you think so? I wouldn’t be surprised, Saitama put on an impressive show.”

     “He’s been trying to mimic Saitama. Using only his feet and finishing every fight with one swift blow. The opposite of Saitama who only uses his fists and does the same.” The alien commented, skillfully throwing a piece of popcorn in his mouth.

     Thinking back on it you realized he was right, impressed with his observation a part of you couldn’t believe you didn’t notice something like that. “I guess that’ll make this next fight super interesting!” You grin in excitement, scooting toward the edge of your seat as you listen to the announcer hype up the crowd for the fight between the hero and martial artist. “Go Sai- I mean- Charanko! Kick his butt!” You cheer, waving a small flag that you also managed to buy, and on it was his ‘name’ written in sharpie. Boros had one as well but refused to go the extra mile as you did.

     Saitama flashed you a small smile and waved, appreciative of the support the two of you gave (one more enthusiastic than the other). Suiryu noticed this and glanced around to see where he could be looking before his eyes fell upon you, that cute girl and that huge monster- alien guy he met before the tournament. “Oh, do you know her?” Suiryu asked.

     “What? Oh… you mean (y/n)? Yeah, why?” Saitama asked quizzically.

     “(y/n), huh? The name fits her! We met before the tournament, and I made a bet with that big lug next to her that if I beat him I’d get to go out on a date with her!” Suiryu flashed a cheeky smile, crossing his arms.

     Saitama seemed to ponder what he said. Big lug next to her… that would be Boros then, right? This Suiryu guy against Boros had… “No chance.” He accidentally said aloud.

     “What? No chance? Don’t tell me you think I can’t beat him. Or is it that you’re after her too? Man, I have some competition!” Suiryu whistled, stretching his arms in a warm-up.

     “What? No- it’s not like that-” Saitama tried to explain himself, but didn’t even have the chance as the dark-haired martial artist interrupted him.

     “Wow! Look at the smile on Suiryu’s face!”

     “Well it doesn’t matter anyways, just gives me more motivation to fight! Let’s have fun Charanko!”

     “Begin!”

     “Huh?”

     As quickly as it was said barely anyone, that wasn’t Saitama or Boros, had time to process what was happening as Suiryu sends a swift kick toward Saitama but stops just before making contact.

     “N- No way…” You say in disbelief.

     Suiryu did this again, and then again, his kicks so swift it seemed like a hurricane had formed suddenly in the arena but you were focused on something else entirely.

     “Saitama… his wig…” You mutter, placing your hand over your mouth to desperately stop yourself from laughing. “It nearly keeps getting blown off by the wind!” You wheeze, struggling to stop yourself from laughing barely able to keep your eyes off the fight as Saitama desperately keeps the wig down in place. “I can’t take it! It’s too much!” You laugh, covering your mouth as you double over.

     “Yes it is rather… amusing,” Boros says, unable to stop the small smile himself as he watches the scene before him. “The headpiece is hindering his ability to fight.” 

     You just barely manage to get ahold of yourself to witness the amazing scene that comes immediately after. The tan male crosses his arms, raising his leg in preparation as he looks ready to strike. And as soon as that thought crosses your mind, he’s already jumped at Saitama. He nearly kicks the undercover hero off the stage but Saitama is just too fast and flawlessly weaves through the attack. “Wow!” You exclaim. The humor in Saitama’s ridiculous wig is forgotten as you become enamored by the show Suiryu is putting on.

     “Hmm…” A molten gold eye inspects you, watching your expressions and reactions with great interest. This martial artist’s moves aren’t that quick, and certainly not that impressive to warrant such a reaction from you. Though compared to the rest of the worms that you’ve seen before he is better but… ‘I should ask Saitama to spar with me. So that I can show her what a real battle looks like.’ Boros thinks to himself. There’s a warm feeling in his chest at the thought of you directing those emotions- that awe and amazement- toward him.

     “He kicked him into the air!!!” The announcer yells in disbelief. Not even a second later Saitama was already sent hurtling down and into the arena floor. The ground easily gives way under the sheer force Saitama was knocked down, digging into the earth as the cement around him cracks and gets thrown into the air from the force. And brutally, as Saitama is trying to protect his wig, you watch as Saitama’s arms are grabbed and Suiryu knees him straight in the face. The force of the attack knocks Saitama further into the ground, the whole scene was completely jaw-dropping. “That had to hurt right? Right?!” You’re practically out of your seat by now, holding onto the edge of the rail and leaning forward to get a better view but it’s hard to see when all the dust that was kicked up from that deadly combo.

     “I doubt he even felt it.” The alien seems casual but is still watching the fight with interest, even a ‘dominator of the universe’ like him couldn’t help but be impressed by a technique like that.

     “Is Charanko ok?! Can he even stand?!” Cheers mixed in with sounds of awe and worry, awe and worry transformed into disbelief as Saitama stepped out of the ground as casually as he was getting out of a pool. ‘I knew Saitama was strong but I don’t think I ever really knew about it at all until now…’ You think to yourself, sitting back down in your seat. 

     The fight continues for a few more minutes and though it’s still impressive you’re slightly disappointed that Saitama hasn’t even bothered striking back yet. Just as the sign escapes your lips you watched as the two of them slow down and seem to exchange a few words, it’s such a shame you can’t hear what they’re talking about. Though as the talk continues it looks like Saitama’s usually soft bored features harden and become more serious. ‘A hard-boiled egg.’ 

     “Saitama is going to strike back now,” Boros says factually, his head that was previously resting on his fist is now leaning forward with the rest of his large body.

     You don’t say anything in reply, only glancing at him for a moment before looking back. “I think so too…” Now that you think about it, Saitama was able to hold his strength back right? No, he definitely was able to, he's a hero after all. The crowd surrounding them was filled with the sound of anticipation as the brief pause in their fight left everyone wondering what was going to happen next. “What do you do normally?” Suiryu asked a smirk spread across his face in interest.

     “Normally? Uh, go for walks and defeat monsters?” Saitama says plainly as he scratches his cheek in thought.

     “What? You fight monsters? You almost sound like a hero.” Saitama wasn’t able to read his opponent's face, almost blank- a contrast to the cocky smile he usually wore. ‘Ah- I slipped up!’ He couldn’t let them know he was not Charanko.

     “W-Well, I thought it might be cool to be a hero in the future.” The incognito hero stutters slightly but hopes that he didn’t seem too suspicious.

     “Geez- even you aspire to be a hero?” Suiryu lets out a disappointed sigh, shrugging his shoulders while shaking his head. “I don’t think that hero business is all that great. Those A-class heroes earlier were so weak, it was a joke! ‘Hero’ is just some stupid title, yet it’s supposed to be their profession. They go on and on about ‘good deeds’ and ‘justice’ even though people at that level are never going to save the world.” Suiryu walks closer to his opponent, face blank yet his eyes filled with mild annoyance. “Noble aspirations, fine thoughts, lofty ethics, heroic justice…” The martial artist lists, walking closer and closer to Saitama. “Just boring contaminants in my life seeking fun. You’re strong too. So you shouldn’t be worrying about all that nonsense.” He pauses. ‘Charanko’ hasn’t spoken a word. “Oh. Did I bum you out? I’m only giving you some truthful advice because I respect you!” Suiryu swears he put a good amount of force into that kick. So why was it that when it made a direct kick to ‘Charanko’s’ head, not only did it feel like kicking a wall but also that he wasn’t able to make him budge an inch? ‘Oh… his wig fell off…’ Suiryu thought to himself.

     “That’s a clean hit!!- Huh?”

     “Who the hell cares? You’re not the only one doing what you want.” Saitama spoke calmly as he looked him directly in the eyes. He clenches his fist lightly as he pulls back his arm. “Let me give you some advice as well. If you just want to have fun, you probably shouldn’t get any stronger.” Suiryu felt something when that fist was coming for him. Something that he’d grown unfamiliar with… no it wasn’t shocking (though he couldn’t believe what just happened) it wasn’t awe (though he was in amazement at this man before him) no it was that he was out of his depth. 

     Your mouth hung open in shock as you were unable to process just exactly what happened in the span of 5 seconds. Saitama’s cover was blown, and he then proceeded to blow some guy’s clothes off with a punch that didn’t even connect.

     “As expected of Saitama. He didn’t want the fight to end too early!” Boros said in amusement, he looks over to you watching as you gape like a fish.

     “That was crazy! His fist didn’t even connect and it ripped Suiryu’s clothes off!” Your fingers combed through your hair, pulling slightly as your brain successfully pieces together everything that happened. “Ah- But Saitama’s wig-”

     “What in the world just happened?! But a shocking truth about Charanko has just been revealed! It’s been discovered that he’s been wearing a wig! The referees are making their move! Could this mean-” The announcer was cut off as a referee took the microphone, standing out on the sidelines of the arena.

     “Allow me to explain. After last year’s incident where someone impersonated Wolfman, the rules of this year’s tournament changed, meaning wearing masks or anything on your head is against the rules. This includes wigs. Therefore, Charanko is disqualified!”

     “U-Unbelievable! That ends our match! The winner is Suiryu!”

     “Unbelievable is right!” You shout in anger, standing up again to slam your hands against the rail toward the referee. “You’re discriminating against people who begin balding at an early age! What an unfair rule! It wasn’t even covering his face how could he impersonate anyone- actually he was impersonating someone…” You mumble, realizing that Saitama was in fact breaking the rules so this was probably completely deserved. “So what if he was he deserved to win that fight! Those rules are stupid anyways!”

     “I agree, that weakling only won because of that idiotic rule- how pathetic.” Boros agreed, almost as annoyed as you were. The crowd booed and complained along with you and Boros. Wanting to continue the fight and about how this win seemed so lame. The disappointment was palpable.

     “Wait what?” Your anger is briefly quelled as you watch Suiryu lunge for Saitama, fist reared back readying to strike before the attack connects to the side of Saitama’s head. It was so quick you could barely see it, like a loaded spring. There was so much power behind it that you felt a gust of wind blow your hair back eyes blinking in shock.

     “It seems like he wasn’t satisfied with the win either.” The pink-haired alien notes, a smirk forming on his face. “Only natural for someone who has a sense of pride, we may get a show after all.”

     “He broke the arena in half!” You scream the crowd screams, and even the announcer was screaming at this intense fight. Dust puffs up and the sound of crumbling earth nearly drowns out the sound around you, you can feel tremors underneath your feet as Suiryu kicks up the severed platform and pummels Saitama into what was once the floor.

     “Yeah!”
     “That’s what I’m talking about!”
     “Fight more!”
     “Finish this!”

     “Things are heating up! Suiryu is filled with emotion!”

     Suiryu’s so fast he looks like a tornado, punch after punch turns into a flurry of blows- hits and kicks as he goes completely all out against Saitama. Jumping back he slams his foot into the ground, shattering the right half of the platform completely, each step he takes as the pressure builds leaves cracks and craters until the pressure is released like a loaded spring his fist burying itself into Saitama’s gut and throws the man back. The amount of power and kinetic energy in Suiryu’s arm completely shatters the metal band around his bicep, so audible that you could hear it from your seat in the Arena.

     “Even that isn’t-’ Suiryu begins in shock, staring at his fist in disbelief before his attention is brought towards Saitama who interrupts him.

     “I see. I’m starting to get it.”

     “Do you finally understand something about martial arts?” Suiryu grits out, determination flashing in his eyes as he gets into a stand readying to strike again.

     “So basically, martial arts is…” Suiryu holds his breath.

     “...a way to move around all cool-like?”

     You watch from the rail as a shocked expression is etched onto Suiryu’s face, even you could sense the electrifying anger around him from all the way over here. You smirk, he must’ve realized Saitama is way out of his league. “Go Saitama! Kick his butt!” You exclaim, waving your flag around in support. Though your excitement simmers down as you watch Saitama spin in a circle. “What… Huh…?” You mutter, a bit of wind blowing your hair back and nearly making you back up from the force of it. You’re left standing there in shock as you watch Saitama defeat Suiryu with… “A booty bump? Seriously… that’s how this fight is going to end?” Your disbelief turns into horror as Suiryu is knocked into the stands across from you and… Saitama’s pants fall exposing his polka-dot underwear. “This guy…” You sigh. Sitting back down next to Boros who simply patted your shoulder.

     You and Boros watch as Saitama is chased by security out of the building, and after a brief moment of silence, you couldn’t help but laugh. “Well, that was a fun tournament!” You say happily, watching as the workers quickly set up the arena to hand the trophy out to the winner.

     “Yes, it was interesting. Though I’m slightly disappointed there weren’t any stronger challengers, this world’s ‘martial arts’ was an interesting technique to study.” You smile up at Boros, glad that he seemed to have a fun time as well.

     Time passed and you watched as all the contestants gathered in the arena and Suiryu was congratulated. Though you still felt like it was a dishonorable win, it was still a fair one. ‘That’s Saitama’s fault for wearing such a bad wig.’ You joke to yourself.

     “We have an announcement to make!” The announcer said after the main part of the ceremony concluded. “There appear to be monsters outside right now, so we ask that you do not leave the venue until the police give the all-clear.”

     “What? Monsters?”
     “Again?”
     “Don’t worry we’ll be safe as long as we remain here!”

     “Boros…?” You look over at him worriedly. You can see him sit up straight now, and he doesn’t say anything in response simply looking up toward the sky. Now that you think about it Genos hasn’t been back for a while, you thought there were only a few to take care of. What if there’s more? What if he’s-

     “Look up there!”
     “What is that?!”

     Your blood runs cold as you watch three monsters descend from the skies. Pitch-black feathers and glowing purple eyes make up crudely what seems to have been previous crows. But in their hands is what really freaked you out. The contestants that were sent to the hospital lay limp in their grasp. You’re pulled out from your thoughts as Boros stands and pulls you protectively closer to him. He doesn’t say anything and doesn’t move his eyes as you feel the earth below you tremble again.

     Thud. Thud. Thud.

     A contestant is thrown onto the ring, screams of horror rise from the crowd and you can’t help but grab onto Boros tightly. You don’t need to try and guess what he might’ve been looking at so intently since you both were staring at the grotesque and massive figure that walked into the center of the stadium. Every part of you is screaming telling you that this just isn’t something you can fight. Similar to the monster attack you experienced before but much, much worse. A shiver runs through your body, and you begin to worry for the safety of everyone here.

     “Whatever you do. Do not leave my side.”