Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

It wasn’t so much of a hard day at work, as it was more of just a hard job to work. Yamada Hizashi had accepted the job as a stripper when he realized there was no better way for him to bring home an income. He had been living alone for a long enough time to convince himself that finding a partner was only a fleeting idea, and he was going to have to fend for himself.

After another long night, Hizashi slipped out into the alleyway through the back door and pulled out a box of Camels from his leather jacket’s pocket.  With a sigh, he tapped a cigarette out of the box. One hand held the small stick to his lips, sucking in as the other hand flicked a lighter. His hands shook slightly, a sign of his lifestyle. The buzz didn’t come with his first drag, or his second. This just served as evidence of how often we would indulge in this habit.

His walk home was set into motion as he took his leave from the alley, cigarette burning as it hung from his lips. It kept a slight warmth inside him, as the cold air threatened his heat. Every few steps, he’d spare a second to pull the stick away from his mouth and tap it beside him. Ash fell to the ground and the embers died.

Crunch. A sound from behind. Hizashi hardly noticed the sound of a shoe scuffing the pavement, pushing it off as his own. That is, until he heard the sound misaligned with his steps. One of his shaped eyebrows raises in confusion, and he stops abruptly. Whipping around to face the noise, his long, golden hair whirls with the motion. He came face to face with a big man he didn’t recognize. Perhaps a fan from the club.

Hizashi let out a sigh as he shifted his weight to sass the bold figure, “Listen, honey, I’m off the clock right now, and I don’t offer what you’re looking for.” He was ready to leave it at that, turn around, and keep off in his own direction.

“Ah, no, Sweetheart. That ain’t how you oughta talk to a loyal customer like myself.” Thick, sweaty fingers engulf Hizashi’s thin wrist. “I just wanted ta’ tip ya, babe.” Babe, Hizashi grimaced at the overused pet name. He hated that one. Still, he wouldn’t refuse a generous donation to his life funding.

“I-I’m sorry. I’m just so used to,” he swallowed nervously, remembering he was still in this man’s clutch. “To rabid fans who ask for things from me.” He wished he could live closer or take a bus, but he was painfully aware of how this situation had to be his only option.

“Here you are,” A five was squeezed between his pointer and index fingers of his free hand, pointed towards Hizashi’s mouth. “Take it,” he demanded as his fingertips and dollar bill meet with the blond’s lips. The man’s extended offer forced the butt left in Hizashi’s mouth to shift to the side, and he spit it out in reply. His lips gently parted as he intended to bite the cash, and slide it from the fan’s hands. With no warning, the two fingers and money were forcefully shoved into the stripper’s mouth. In reaction, he tried to rip his arm from the grip around his shaking wrist, rejecting the filth that was forced into his mouth as best he could. He wanted to scream, but the only sounds he could manage left him muffled, tears accompanying. He struggled for what seemed to be an eternity, the taste of dirt replacing the hot smoke that had occupied him a moment earlier.

“Hey,” came a monotonous voice. It was a new stranger, and he approached from the opposite direction. It was a low voice, and one Hizashi didn’t recognize. Oh, Lord, please let this man be opposed to my attacker, the blond prayed, I’ll do anything. Please, help.

The fan, taking the distraction as an opportunity to adjust his hold on the smaller man, let his hands fly to the throat of the stripper. He used this as leverage, holding him now hostage. “Stay back,” he warned to the intruder.

Thankfully, this new guy didn’t listen, and came to Hizashi’s rescue. He attacked the fan and in the process, gave Hizashi the chance of escape. By escape, it really meant the blond would be forcefully thrown to the ground when the fan couldn’t keep his grip anymore. Fine by me, he thought, just glad to be freed of that hold.

Scooting back, he finally looked at the two men. His savior seemed only mildly groomed with a five o’clock shadow and long black hair. He wasn’t dressed too poorly, either. Kicking that big guy’s ass kinda made this stranger look hot.

“Don’t bother him again,” the dark haired man spoke, snapping Hizashi from his wandering thoughts. He looked up to see his attacker running off, leaving him and the handsome hero alone. He was still collecting his thoughts when he noticed the other man offering a hand out, and he gently accepted it. As he stood up, the heel of his boot completely snapped, causing him to fall forward into the arms of this stranger, and he didn’t seem to mind catching the blond. It must’ve broken when he fell from the fan’s grip earlier.

“Are you hurt?” He was pretty blunt with his dialogue, but Hizashi supposed it could be how he acted around strangers for safety or something. It made enough sense to him.

“N-No, its my shoes. Sorry… Mister?” He left the name blank with lingering question.

“Aizawa.”

Hizashi furrowed his brows in response, “What, no given name? That’s fair I guess, I am only some stranger you just risked your life for, after all. No need to-”

“Shouta Aizawa.” His response was quick to cut off Hizashi, who giggled at that fact.

“Well, Shouta, my name’s Hizashi Yamada. Thank you for the saving, by the way…” He awkwardly straightened himself up as Shouta seemed to watch carefully, scanning his body. Subconsciously, the blond brought a hand up to rub at his throat where that disgusting hand had held him. He offered a weak smile that Shouta didn’t return. Instead, he got closer to the blond, squinting his eyes as if focused. He moved Hizashi’s hand away. His eyes widened only a little in shock once he really noticed the blond’s state. His skin was bruised and cut, all angles sharp and underfed, and his entire body shaking.

“Where are you headed?” He asked, still deadpanning. It was almost unsettling.

“Home, I suppose,” Hizashi really didn’t know what kind of question he was being asked, and became a little wary. He didn’t want to know where he lived, right? He sure hoped not, especially after assuming so well of this all.

“You should come with me instead,” and with that, Hizashi was skeptical all over again.

“Oh, no! I’m not gonna go back and repay you! You saved me out of your own free goodwill. You didn’t have to do that.” The stripper was backing away as a form of self protection.

“What?” It took him a minute to process what that all meant. “No, to dress your wounds. I don’t want your services.”

Hizashi couldn’t help but take at least a little offense, but he felt just as relieved. “Alright, how far?”

“A literal block away, I was coming back from work.” Shouta began to lead them out of the alleyway, picking up his bag on their way. Hizashi followed behind, struggling to keep up a steady pace with a broken heel. Not to mention the heels were about a good four inches. They barely made it ten feet from the alleyway before Shouta had silently offered his help again, letting Hizashi slink his arm over his shoulders for support. A slight blush crept up the blond’s cheeks when he felt Shouta wrap a supporting arm around his waist.

Eventually, the two arrived in the lobby of Shouta’s apartment building. They took the elevator up to Shouta’s place and said man fished a key from his deep pocket to unlock the door for them both.

“You can sit on the couch if you’d like.” The dark haired man left to retrieve a first aid kit from his bathroom, and returned in under a minute. Shouta brought the kit over and leaned down to inspect the stripper’s body for damage. His first action was to pull out disinfectant and and cotton ball. He doused it in a generous amount of the chemical. It burned Hizashi’s nose. Silently, the nurse set to work on his patient.

The first cut had Hizashi flinching both with the sting and with the cold. It was a little shocking each time Shouta failed to warn him. “Sorry…” He would mutter a bit now and then, breaking the silence. When he was finished, Shouta pulled back.

He nodded at his own handiwork, “You should really take better care of yourself. How did you end up like this? These aren’t all fresh.”

Ah, Hizashi thought , so he doesn’t know who I am and what I do… He shrugged it off. It wasn’t exactly a job people would pridefully announce. “I don’t try to get attacked in alleys on a typical day, as a matter of fact.”

Hizashi swears there was a hint of laughter as the other man breathed out his nose. “Right, sorry. Can I get you a drink or something?”

The blond looked into his eyes, dark brown shining back at him. They were kinder than he let on. “I’m okay, thank you. For everything, actually.” He was washed over with a comforting feeling, but he knew it was uncalled for. People weren’t typically this caring for each other as far as Hizashi knew. “I should really go, though. Again, thank you so much for the help today…” He stood up unsteadily, remembering his shoe and left without another word.

As he pulled the apartment door closed, he exhaled. Shouta wouldn’t get off his damn mind. Such a handsome face, and so kind. Immediately, Hizashi was regretting leaving so fast without any other exchange.

Chapter Text

“What’d you forget?”

Hizashi blushed slightly as the door opened to reveal his handsome knight once again. It had been not even half an hour before he had to return to ask about what he forgot there.

“Sorry, I just… I must’ve misplaced my tips from tonight. Did I happen to leave them here?” Green eyes wandered over to the couch, where he was sat down earlier. Shouta followed the queue and stepped back to let the other inside.

“Go ahead and check wherever, I didn’t notice anything, though.” He waved over to his living space, couch centered. The television was on, playing commercials at the moment, and the volume was low. Hizashi accepted the invitation to find the money he lost earlier by searching all parts of the couch. Cushion by cushion, and even under it. He was down on his hands and knees, searching desperately for that cash. Reaching under the couch for something he couldn’t see, he pulled his hand back with his treasure.

“Did you find it?” Shouta’s query was met with a crinkling sound that dollars don’t make.

“Candy bar wrapper.” His searching kept persistent.

“Hey, you know, it’s gotten pretty dark out.” Shouta’s hand awkwardly scratched the back of his neck. “How far is your place?”

Taking a break, Hizashi sat on his heels and looked up to the man standing over him. “It’s not too far, just… like… a few blocks or so.”

Shouta nodded, “At least let me walk you. It’s gotten colder, as well.” There was no denying how correct he was about the whole thing. The street lights didn’t offer much in means of light, and it was nearing the end of fall.

“You don’t have to,” back to searching. He crawled around the floor looking everywhere. It had to be here somewhere. “But I won’t decline.”

Hizashi heaved a deep sigh. “I can’t find anything. Fuck.”

“Retrace your steps. When did you last have it?” Shouta thought back, but never remembered seeing money besides the five in that crazed fan’s hand. Hizashi moved to stand up, swaying a little in the process. “Can you make it?”

“Yeah, yeah, I’m fine. Just-” The blonde was cut off by Shouta forcing him down to sit on the couch. “Thanks…”

“Seriously, take care of yourself. Don’t go passing out in stranger’s apartments. It’s dangerous.” Shouta walked away, returning swiftly with a glass of water he held out to the other. The blond graciously accepted it, taking small sips. He shifted a little to pull his pack out of his pocket as Shouta took the glass from him and set it nearby.

“Got a light?” Hizashi held up the cigarette, a sign of his stress. It took less than a second for Shouta to rip it away from him, a cold look settled upon his features.

“Not in here. They’ll kill you, anyway.” It was hard to miss the look of disappointment he got in return for that comment. Shouta stuck to what he meant when he told the man to take better care of himself. No wonder he was this way, bad habits can affect the body hard.

Hizashi turned to face away, gaze drifting anywhere but the other’s eyes. “What do you do?”

“Huh?”

“What do you do as a job?” He turned back, letting himself stare again. Green eyes glance over the handsome man, stopping abruptly at his face.

Hizashi studied his features as he replied, “I’m a teacher at the local high school. The one on the West side.” No way. That didn’t seem fitting. Not for a face like his, it was too cold. It took Hizashi a minute to even process what he was being told because it sounded too foreign.

“I would’ve guessed model.” Shit. He did not just say that out loud. Well, perhaps he did, but he wouldn’t admit to that. Shouta only shot him a brief look of question, but never spoke to accompany it.

“And you?” The question just had to turn around. Why didn’t he think about that before he asked in the first place. Hizashi mentally slapped himself. Of course.

“You know where we were in that alley, right?” A nod. “The club Kodokuna. Have you been?” There was a silent shame that followed his sentence.

Now, Shouta hadn’t wished to sound so clueless, but he truly had no idea what Hizashi was talking about. Where he lived was not where he liked to hang around. It wasn’t a very nice part of town, but it happened to be affordable. He offered no response to the question but the shaking of his head, signifying that he hadn’t gone.

“Oh, well, that’s where I work; I dance.” Shouta’s face seemed to show some form of recognition right then, Hizashi could tell. It must’ve suddenly made sense to him now. The outfits, the fan, his health, all of it. At this point, Hizashi wasn’t sure if he should be expecting a response from the other man or not. He actually just figured Shouta was asking about his work to be polite and carry on the conversation, not because he was going to be interested. “Maybe I can take you sometime. You know, to see the place… If you want, that is.”

Curiosity got the better of Shouta and he agreed before he even thought. “Yes, I don’t work on the weekends.”

“Oh, good! I can take you this coming Saturday! You’ll get to see it all at it’s finest.” No, no what am I doing? The blond tried desperately to reign himself in, at a loss for self control. Why was he agreeing to expose his lifestyle to a handsome stranger he met an hour ago?

“Saturday.”

Fuck .

“Well, I guess I should be going… since the money isn’t here…” His voice was anxious, disappointed, and tired all at once. As he stood up, Shouta moved to steady him by holding his arm. It didn’t take much for Hizashi to accept the help and lean into the other’s hold. Walking seemed to become more of a task with each step. They were both tired and it showed, even with the support Shouta was offering.

“You’re going to pass out before we even make it a block.” Shouta stated, no specific emotion pulling through. “Just…” He paused, a breath leaving him, “You can stay here tonight. I’m not going to carry you home. Not to mention, I don’t know where you live.”

“You really don’t have to, I can-” His gaze met tired eyes. “Sorry, you’re right. I just don’t want to trouble you.” Hizashi felt bad. This man was so kind to him and he couldn’t see a reason as to why. It could have been pity, but the kindness that usually accompanies is never plentiful. Who in town would offer this kind of help? Not to me, he thought, not to me, no.

Shouta walked them back over to the couch, settling the stranger into his home. “It’s alright.” There was a strange, unspoken trust. A kind of trust the universe could never explain, but one that would always linger. Perhaps it was nice. It felt misleading to be able to share such a bond with a stranger, especially if one had experienced such a bond before that never lasted.

“I, just, well… thank you. For everything, I mean. You really didn’t have to get involved with me at all today, but… you did.” A light smile graced the blond’s lips, and he swore the ghost of one was returned by Shouta. He shifted on the couch, unzipping his tall boots. When they were set aside, Shouta finished the action and placed them away for the night. He silently slipped into his room and returned swiftly.

Shouta handed over the clothes he had retrieved, “Change if you can. I’ll leave.”

“Thanks,” Hizashi wasn’t used to the privacy or respect. He hardly waited for Shouta to step out before he started changing his clothes, his grip on the fabric was loose and shaking. “Finished!” He called out when done, a little loud for the night time.

On cue, Shouta emerged from his room to greet Hizashi once again. “Can I get you anything?” He already started towards the kitchen.

Hizashi’s heart was fluttering. This care was all he ever desired from another human being. “I’m really fine.” He was smiling again.

“You can turn the TV to any channel you’d like.” Hizashi pulled the remote into his hands upon hearing this, but didn’t move to change the channel. “Here,” Shouta reappeared in his field of vision with something wrapped in a paper towel. He was slow approaching, reaching the item forward towards Hizashi. “For your neck.” Hizashi accepted the item into his hands feeling the cold; it was ice. Their hands met on the ice pack, Hizashi’s overlapping Shouta’s and feeling the cold through the soft paper towel. He swallowed hard once the ice pack pressed against his tender skin. “It’s alright…”

“Thanks… again.” He looked up to see Shouta closer to his face than he had been before, and a blush covered his face.

“It’ll probably bruise by the morning.” He commented, nonchalantly. “I’ll bring something of bedding for you.” And as promised, Shouta came bearing gifts of blankets and pillows. They smelled good, like they were washed in roses.

“How can I make today up to you?”

Shouta shook his head in dismissal, “Don’t worry about that now. Just get some rest. I’ll have to work tomorrow, but you could come with me- You can’t stay here.”

“Of course, I wouldn’t leave a stranger in my home either. Not in this part of town anyway.” Hizashi giggled a bit to himself at the idea. “I’ll get myself home and leave with you.”

Shouta looked like he wanted to say something more, but it never came. “Oh, well. Goodnight.”

“Goodnight,” Hizashi waved with a smile as his gracious host left the room.

Chapter Text

The sun rose early that morning, it’s golden rays flooding the room and seeping through the cracks of the curtains. A beam of light laid over Hizashi’s face, the brightness disturbing his deep rest. He stirred, shifting to block the intruding light. That was when he noticed the soreness plaguing his neck, leaking down to his chest and over his collarbone. Losing the comfortable position to the sunlight, Hizashi accepted defeat and sat up.

“Good morning.”

The sudden sound interrupting the serenity startled the blond. He jumped a little, whipping around to face the sound, and immediately wincing in regret. A hand came up to rub at his neck gently. “Oh, Shouta…” His voice was hoarse, and he didn’t quite enjoy the burn of speaking.

“Sorry, I didn’t mean to scare you. Are you alright?” Hizashi gave a slow nod in response, reaching for the glass of water Shouta left on the coffee table for him. Shouta watched as the blond took small sips, looking only a little relieved by the cool sensation of the liquid. “Can I look?”

With a small nod offered again, Shouta accepted the response and moved to sit himself next to Hizashi on the couch. It dipped with the new weight, shifting them closer to each other. Shouta was gentle, more so than how his looks suggested. Hands steadied Hizashi gently by the shoulders and calloused thumbs lightly made their way across his collarbone. The blond flinched, pulling back a bit by instinct.

“Sorry,” they both whispered in unison. Hizashi smiled, finding the moment pretty cheesy. It sounded like a stupid romantic comedy script the way they both shared a blush over simply speaking in sync.

No, Hizashi thought, He’s just being nice. There’s nothing between us… is there? The connection felt too real to him, but he was unsure why. This was so new and unexplored, he had never felt anything towards anyone.

“There could definitely be some damage but nothing that I can really fix.” Shouta tilted the blond’s head to let the light highlight his neck. “The bruising is pretty bad and you seemed to struggle in your sleep.”

“Struggle?” His voice seemed to beg that he not talk more, but the urge was ever present.

“Your breathing seemed a bit harsh, so I figure your throat must be swollen or damaged inside.” Shouta’s eyes seemed to soften with a pitiful look to the other. “That’s why I didn’t leave this morning.”

Hizashi cocked an eyebrow in interest and Shouta took that as a request to explain. “It’s nine, I called into work so I wouldn’t have to leave you alone today or force you home.”

“Sorry,” Hizashi switched back to whispering. “You really didn’t need to-”

“It’s fine.” The lack of depth in his voice made Hizashi question the truth behind that statement. “Seriously. Although, I was thinking and I checked but I don’t have any sort of medicine. Well, none that you could swallow anyway. I wanted you to be awake before I ran to the store.”

“Shouta, honey, that’s sweet but you don’t have to be buying anything for me. I have my own money, you know.” It wasn’t a complete lie, but Hizashi would definitely not spend his money on any sort of medication for himself. That was a luxury he couldn’t afford. All money went to rent and food. In fact, he was extremely behind on rent and barely filled a shelf in his fridge.

“Don’t…” It seemed that he wanted to threaten the pet name, but the blush tinting his cheeks suggested he didn’t hate it. “I mean, it’s fine. Really, I can afford a bottle or two, it’s nothing.”

Hizashi envied the way Shouta could spend and then call it ‘nothing.’ Still, he was thankful for that kind of offer. He figured the way he insisted against it must annoy Shouta and just nodded in acceptance instead. “Thank you. Actually, I’ll come with you.”

“You should rest.”

“You shouldn’t trust a stranger to be alone in your apartment.” That was strange. Shouta had insisted on not leaving the blond here alone before, but something had changed his mind. There must have been an unspoken trust between them, seeing as Shouta’s mind had changed and Hizashi let Shouta even remotely close to his injury. That sounded possible.

“Alright, then come with me. Help yourself to the bathroom first, of course.”

What a relief. Hizashi was glad he was offered the bathroom because as soon as it was mentioned he realized how desperately he needed to use it. He smiled and excused himself into the small, tiled room. It had quite a vintage look to it, quite cute. The lack of decoration made it feel a bit bigger than it really was. Hizashi first relieved himself then proceeded to turn on the shower. He had slept in his makeup, too tired to realize it.

As the shower heated up Hizashi heard the voice from the hallway, “Clean towels are in the closet.”

He opened said closet and pulled out a towel. He threw it over the curtain rod and peered inside. The shower had a single overhead nozzle, but also functioned as a tub. The toiletries inside were limited. “You don’t use conditioner?” He strained his voice to be heard over the running water, wincing a little.

“Just shower.”

The simple response was just in time with the heat finally in the water stream. He stuck a shaking, manicured hand into the water before fully stepping in. It was so nice to have hot water. Still, he didn’t take too long, just enough to wash up. Turning off the water, he pulled the waiting towel around his body to dry off. His long hair, heavy with moisture, wouldn’t let him forget to dry it as well.

He felt pretty naked not putting on any makeup or hair product. His thoughts were interrupted by a knock on the door.

“Unlock, I have a change of clothes.” Hizashi obeyed, shifting up his towel to ensure privacy. He peered out to see Shouta offering a neatly folded pile of clothes.

“Thanks,” he spoke lowly, the steam having restored a bit of his voice.

“Can I have those?” The man outside pointed down to where Hizashi had shimmied out of his previous outfit. His hands already occupied, he let the door fall the rest of the way open as he bent to retrieve them. “Thanks.” Shouta nodded as the blond smiled brightly in response. There was no denying how much better he felt after the shower. Every part of him was cleaned and warmed to comfort.

Within the next few minutes, Hizashi had gotten dressed and managed to towel dry his hair a bit. It was now only damp, but not dripping. He opened the bathroom door once again and as Shouta passed by, he stopped to address the man.

“There’s a blow dryer under the sink. You should use it, the weather is too cold for wet hair.” To prove himself even more, he stepped into Hizashi’s space and fished said tool out of the cabinet. “Here,” he spoke, handing the dryer to the other.

Shouta then proceeded to leave the room, only returning once the sound of the dryer had ceased. Hizashi’s dry hair was then pulled back into a sloppy bun, tied with one of the few hair bands that never leave his wrist.

“I’m ready,” Hizashi beamed, too bright in contrast to Shouta.

“You seem to be feeling better,” a statement that could only widen Hizashi’s smile.

“I do, I think it was the hot water.” He looked over to see Shouta’s gaze soften once again with a pitiful tone. He was definitely aware that Hizashi was broke. This thought made him question once again Shouta’s motivations and if there really was more than just acquaintanceship.

They began their trip to the shops downtown, not partaking in any heavy conversation. It was difficult for someone like Hizashi to keep quiet. He was talkative and flirtatious and this felt very out of character. It especially didn’t help every time Shouta would urge him not to speak. It didn’t hurt that bad anymore, but Shouta could still hear the rasp in his voice enough to illicit concern.

“Hey, Shouta-”

“Shh…” He repeated the sound everytime Hizashi attempted to strike up conversation.

“But, Sho-”

“Shh!” This time the sound came harsher, but Shouta’s expression was unwavering. He still looked just as bored as ever. A giggle escaped Hizashi, and Shouta just sighed. “Okay, what is it?”

“Nothing. It’s just so quiet. Are we at least close?” He was clearly tired of the distant sounds of the city, making the walk seem too long. Breaking the silence was Hizashi’s specialty.

Shouta rolled his eyes, a faint laugh escaping him. “Yeah, it’s right down there.” He pointed and Hizashi invited himself to try and align with Shouta’s vision, a hand resting on the other man’s shoulder. There was a brief moment where he could feel Shouta tense, but it wasn’t long. There was a definite trust and Hizashi couldn’t help the warm feeling spreading in his chest. Who would’ve guessed that the first person to care about him was actually the first person he’d reciprocate the caring for.

The first thing Shouta noticed was the cold feeling that the other’s hand forced on him. He was still shaking… or was he shivering? “Are you cold?” It only took him turning to face the other to notice the way he tried to press his arms to him for warm, minus the one that was resting on Shouta. His jaw was clenched to keep from chattering. Such a thin frame was bound to leave him lacking warmth. Thankfully, they were downtown by this time, passing shop after shop. One of the street vendors had clothing hanging overhead and Shouta lead them that way. The only questioning Hizashi emitted was the look on his face, not sure where the sudden detour came from.

They approached the stand and were greeted by the attendant. “What can I do for you boys?” She was an older lady, tired looking, and probably not that well off. Already, the two were admiring the coats and jackets.

“Just looking for the right coat.” Shouta put it simply, enough so that the woman would ask no more questions and leave them to browse. Hizashi ran his hands over every coat that had fur, a lot of them matted or in tatters. These were all not-too-gently used by the looks of them. Shouta came across the most obnoxious looking fur coat, though. It was a bright purple with a checkered stripe wrapping around the center. It looked a little feminine, but it was the softed, cleanest option he had seen yet. Indicated by color and pattern, Shouta could tell the fur wasn’t real, but it felt just as warm.

Apparently, the colorful mess in Shouta’s hands had peaked the blond’s interest as he walked over from a few feet away. Immediately, he pet the coat like he had many of the others. This was had an actual softness to it.

Hizashi guessed the other man could tell he liked the coat, as he draped it over his arm and turned back to the woman. “We’ll take this one.” Those words triggered an overly ecstatic expression from Hizashi.

“Alright, hun, ten dollars.” Based on Shouta’s reaction, Hizashi guessed that was way cheaper than he expected. Shouta handed over two crumpled fives from his pocket and the lady accepted the transaction, waving them off as she went back to sit.

Shouta held the jacket up for the other to slip his arms into, then fully encased him in the jacket. The fit was perfect, the sleeves just the right length and the bottom of the coat giving generous coverage to his ass.

“Ah, Shouta! Thank you, honey!” The exclamation came a bit louder than he meant for. Hizashi haphazardly flung his arms around the other. His grip wasn’t too strong, as expected from his state, but intended to be tight. Shouta, for the first time, reciprocated the enthusiasm by letting his arms come up to wrap around the man.

“Of course, it’s no problem,” he spoke, actually smiling. It wasn’t a particularly bright smile, but one of genuine contentedness. Hizashi then insisted on holding Shouta’s hand the rest of the way to the shop, his affection a sign of gratefulness.

Chapter Text

The little bell rang as the two stepped into the shop. It wasn’t anything big, just a convenience store. Shouta seemed to know where to look and exactly what he was looking for. He walked ahead of Hizashi, leading them diagonally across the shop to and aisle of small boxes and bottles of medication. They wasted no time there, Shouta purchasing exactly what they came for, and leaving quickly.

The walk back was filled with comfortable small talk and a stop for a quick lunch. No matter how often Shouta shushed the blond, he insisted on conversation, so they ended up having it. It felt a lot faster getting back than it did getting there, and Hizashi thanked the heavens for that.

“While we’re out here, do you want to make a stop at your place?” Shouta seemed to have all logical questions.

Hizashi nodded enthusiastically, “Yeah, I miss my makeup. I’m sure you won’t want to see my apartment though.” He was referring to the size of that dump. It was one of the very few buildings he could afford to stay in.

“I don’t mind, I am coming with you, after all.” Shouta shrugged and watched as his lead was lost to Hizashi. Now that they were going to the blond’s apartment, he would obviously need to lead them there.

Hizashi looked back with a bright smile, indicating to Shouta that his earlier pain was fading. That or he had already become too accustomed to it. A few steps ahead, Hizashi laced his fingers with the other’s again, mimicking earlier.

They walked like that, still exchanging only small parts of a conversation now and then, until they reached a rickety old building. The brick exterior was covered in graffiti, the windows missing and broken, and the lobby door’s lock was busted. It had to be the least welcoming building Shouta had ever visited. In fact, he seemed hesitant as Hizashi approached the door.

They passed an elevator sporting an “out of order” sign and entered a dimly lit stairwell. The sounds of Hizashi’s crappy shoes echoed, highlighting the uneven sounds of each heel. Thankfully he only lived up two floors and they exited through a door marked with a large “3”. His apartment was the first door they passed, and he unlocked it to let them in. All the lights were off, his furniture was worn, and most things had tape to hold them together. It was a truly unfortunate sight.

“Sorry for the mess,” Hizashi apologized, but the apartment wasn’t very dirty. He toed off his boots and went for a pair of sneakers. Shouta closed the squeaky door behind him, finally stepping inside. He stood near the doorway still, looking around and then down.

“Hizashi..?”

The blond was frantically gathering stuff and moving things around. He was only freshening up, knowing his stuff was still at Shouta’s and that they’d be returning. “Hm? Need something?” He called out from his little bathroom.

“Have you seen this?” Shouta bent down to pick up the paper. It had the word “notice” in big bold type.

“What is-” Hizashi stepped out, approaching the other. He quickly took the paper. “What..?” One hand laced through his hair as the other’s grip on the paper tightened.

“I’m so sorry-”

“I’m losing my home?!” His volume control was lost as he dropped to his knees. The fact that Shouta was watching made him feel somehow worse. He was more ashamed of his situation now than ever. The dark haired man hovered over him, looking as if he was debating his next action.

Shouta placed the bag with the medication on the ground and lowered himself next to Hizashi, his hand subconsciously rubbing over Hizashi’s back. The soft fur of the coat swayed with the motion of his hand. He noticed the shaky breathing, and then the way Hizashi’s breath would hitch now and again. He was crying. It seemed that his injured throat was restricting him from full on sobs because it came out sounding much more pathetic.

Suddenly, Hizashi spun and launched himself into Shouta’s arms. He fully took in the comfort of having another person there for him in a time like this. He could have sworn Shouta’s hold tightened and he hated how much he loved it.

“It’s alright, ‘Zashi,” He had no idea how to comfort someone who lost everything.

“It’s not!” The sound ripped forcefully from within him. It hurt and it sounded like it, too. “This was the only place I could afford and even then I didn’t make rent. Now what am I gonna do?” His nails dug into Shouta’s back just enough for him to feel it.

He shifted in the blond’s grip, “Pack up.”

What? Did I already ask for too much with the comfort? How can he be so-

“We’re going back to my place anyway, right?” Shouta stood them both up, and pulled Hizashi off himself, holding him at arm’s length. Their eyes met and Hizashi could see the kindness in those dark eyes. No matter how tough Shouta looked, Hizashi cherished the way his eyes would betray true emotion.

Hizashi just nodded and wiped away his tears, sniffing. He couldn’t contain the smile that burst onto his face and Shouta reciprocated. Luckily, Hizashi hadn’t had to take too long to pack up everything. They were off as soon as they had arrived, it seemed. Shouta had shoved the medication into his jacket pocket and helped Hizashi carry his bags all the way back to his place. They ended up being pretty close, only a few blocks away.

Upon arriving back at Shouta’s apartment, they both dropped the bags near the couch. Hizashi still seemed upset, but overwhelmingly thankful, too. The two sat down in silence.

Hizashi laid his head on Shouta’s shoulder, and the latter accepted their position and looped his arm around the other’s lower back. “Stay as long as you need to, I’m sure you can get back on your feet.”

How could Shouta be so kind offering his home to some stripper off the street? It was unheard of. This kind of man only existed in movies.

“Thank you, Sho, thank you so much!” Of course, he’d started crying again. Understandably so. It took awhile for the crying to die down along with the constant thanks. By this time, all Hizashi had managed to do was tear up his throat further.

Shouta shifted to reach into his pocket, pulling out the medicine. “Here, you sound worse.” He offered a small cup full of the liquid. There was only a brief moment of disgust before Hizashi downed it. There was another silence and Shouta only broke it feeling the need to comfort, “You know what day tomorrow is?”

Hizashi knew, of course, but didn’t quite remember what made it so special. To him, it was just another day of work at the club. He was thankful that he hadn’t worked today or it really would have been the worst day ever. His luck never seemed to be very high, but as soon as he met Shouta, it was looking up. “Saturday?”

“Yeah, Saturday. You said you’d show me your work.”

“Oh! Yeah!” His volume received a swift shushing from Shouta and he continued in a whisper to save his voice, “I almost forgot. We’ll go after dinnertime.”

Shouta nodded and they let the exhaustion from the day wash over them. Absentmindedly, he reached for the remote and turned on the television. He left whatever channel was playing, noticing that it was some sort of musical and Hizashi seemed okay with it.

It didn’t take long for the medication to kick in as Hizashi was already falling asleep. The two were leaning against each other and Shouta could feel each time the blond would start to nod off again. His weight would become heavier against the other’s side. It was hardly 8 o’clock, but Shouta didn’t want to stop the other from sleeping. He really needed it after the recent events.

Eventually, Hizashi fully fell asleep and Shouta laid him more comfortably across the couch. He took the opportunity to slip into his own room for the night but not before turning the television off. He made his way out, leaving a sleeping Hizashi in darkness.

Chapter Text

Saturday. The day was Saturday.

Both men had slept in that morning, only waking up to the sun. Hizashi had awoken to feeling a little better than the previous day, the sting from his injury dying down. He finally got up and made his way to the bathroom.

Upon returning, Shouta had appeared in the kitchen seemingly with their breakfast. The bathroom door had alerted the man that Hizashi was entering his vicinity now.

“Morning, how are you feeling?” He hardly looked up at the blond, as he plated eggs from the hot pan hovering over the stove. His hair was a mess, not that it was typically well kept, but it certainly reflected the fact that he just rolled out of bed.

Hizashi pads his way over to the kitchen island, pulling out one of the barstools and taking a seat facing Shouta.

“Here,” the raven haired man spoke softly as he placed a plate of breakfast in front of Hizashi, who offered his thanks. He then brought a second plate to the seat beside the blond for himself and took said seat. At first, it was a quiet scene. The two of them eating and actively working not to make a sound louder than the tapping of their forks against porcelain.

Shouta peered over to see Hizashi finishing the last of his meal. It didn’t go unnoticed as the man in question turned to face him, swallowing a mouthful of food.

“What’s wrong?” Hizashi could tell Shouta was debating on saying something, he just wasn’t sure what.

“It’s just… You’ve gone through a lot these past days and, well, I just want to make sure taking me to the club is your choice. We obviously don’t have to go if you’re not feeling up to it.”

Oh, so that’s what this is about. Hizashi didn’t want pity, nor did he feel worthy of comfort from a man he had only so recently met. How he wished he wasn’t reminded of his situation so early in the morning.

“Sho, it’s okay really. We’ll still go and we can not think about… that stuff.” The blond pushed the remains of food around his plate, feeling just slightly awkward. Of course he couldn’t just forget about all that’s happened and is happening, but just for now he didn’t want to talk about it.

Shouta nodded his head in understanding and offered a quiet apology. With that, the two finished their breakfast and Hizashi offered to take care of the dishes, cleaning up any mess Shouta may have left.

They had all day to spend together. Kodokuna was certainly not a daytime destination. Shouta didn’t know the difference but Hizashi had explained that they would go at night. It would be a bit more crowded, but the two of them could appreciate the lack of attention.

Hours of a calm morning had passed. Shouta took his time getting ready for the day in nothing more than sweats. Hizashi wore a plain T-shirt and jeans, knowing full well that he’ll be changing before they leave. The television was on and playing at a low volume. A commercial began to play with a familiar song that caught Hizashi’s attention, and he began to sing along.

Shouta turned to look at him with an unreadable expression. As the snippet of the song ended, Hizashi stopped singing as well only to notice Shouta staring at him once again. Seemed like the beginnings of a weird habit.

Hizashi flushed. “W-What..?”

“I didn’t know you could sing.” Shouta didn’t seem particularly impressed, but perhaps that was just the way his face was.

“I can do a lot of things,” Hizashi waggled his eyebrows at the other and smiled.

Shouta said nothing in response to that, just let out a huff of a laugh.

“So… Do you have any friends?”

Shouta looked a little confused at the question. It seemed out of nowhere.

“I prefer to keep to myself, but that isn’t to say I don’t go out with my colleagues.” Hizashi wasn’t surprised with that answer.

“Ah, well, I just ask because I was thinking that you could meet one of my friends tonight. She works at Kodokuna, too. She’s always there on Saturdays.”

It’s not like Hizashi saying that gave Shouta any more incentive to go with him tonight. He was going to learn more about the man staying in his apartment. However, meeting his friends wouldn’t hurt. He’s not anxious about tonight at all, but he worries that maybe he should be. After all, he was going to have to make a first impression. He had a reputation for not being great at those.

The day passed on slowly, Hizashi wasting his time in front of the television and Shouta grading papers. The quiet time they spent together was nice, and beneficial to the teacher as he was given the chance to get some work done. Each of their meals today was something home-cooked, with Shouta in the kitchen before and Hizashi after to clean up. Hizashi noticed that his host was not the best cook in the world and everything he had been making followed very simple recipes. Still, he was grateful for the food and hospitality now as much as ever.

Finally, the time came to head out. Hizashi had gone through a quick change of clothes now sporting a short, spaghetti-strap, sequined dress.

“What’s the time?” Hizashi spoke as he walked out of the bathroom.

“It’s gotta be close to midnight,” Shouta spoke without looking up. He only turned around when he heard the clicking of high heels approaching him. He hummed to himself.

“You like?” Hizashi couldn’t tell what kind of reaction it was. Sometimes Shouta was hard to read like that.

“You look good.” The dark haired man shuffles the papers from earlier neatly into a stack and sets them aside.

“So do you,” Hizashi winked.

“I look the same as I always do…” Clearly, he missed the point.

“I know.”

The two began to head out but not before grabbing their coats. It was a quiet walk to the club. That was unusual for Hizashi, Shouta noticed. That’s when he realized they had barely talked all day. At first he thought it was out of respect for him doing work, but now he questions how true that statement may be.

“Zashi..?” He glances up slightly to the taller man walking next to him.

“What’s up, baby?” Shouta doesn’t react to the pet name.

“You’ve just been quiet today. Why?” Shouta asks, as straightforward as always.

Hizashi giggles a bit to himself, “Just thinking!”

Even that was a short response. Just a day ago, Hizashi was trying to talk his ear off. Shouta supposed he would figure it out later, and for now just make it through this club scene.

As they approached the building they could see a line stretching from the door and off to the side. More people were holding cash in their hands the closer they got to the door. A tall guard stood in the way of the entrance.

“We don’t need any money, I always get in for free. You can get in, too, if you get in with me.” Hizashi waves his hand for the other to follow him closely as he picks up the pace.

The guard at the door winks at Hizashi as he pulls the both of them over the threshold and into a colorful yet dark scene. Music plays loudly and vibrant lights flash in patterns. Shouta thinks that Hizashi belongs here in a place that is as colorful and loud as himself. He looks good amongst the crowd.

Hizashi leads them across the room to the couch in the corner where the music is just a little bit more bearable and the crowd is thinner. The two of them sit down and Shouta thinks Hizashi waves someone over, but he’s not completely sure. He’s too busy taking in his surroundings. It sure was a lot compared to a classroom.

Just as Shouta had half expected, a woman walks over to join them on the couch. She sits next to Hizashi.

“Shouta,” Hizashi practically shouts, “This is Nemuri! My best friend!”

“Charmed,” she says. Shouta nods.

“Nem, this is Shouta. I’ve, um, kinda moved in with him!” That sentence of course led to plenty of questions, to which Hizashi explained the entire situation. From meeting Shouta after a rough night at work, to being with him as the got the news about losing his home.

“Zashi, I’m so sorry,” she hugs him, and Hizashi does his best to keep his emotions in check. He gently pats her shoulder before she lets go.

“Nothing we can’t handle,” a small laugh punctuates.

The three of them chat for a bit, and by the end of it all Nemuri had put her phone number in Shouta’s phone and texted herself to exchange contact information. She was, however, on the clock, and excused herself after that to get back to work.

“Shouta, do you want something to drink?” Considering it was past midnight, Shouta shook his head. He was very aware that as a depressant, it was likely to make him tired.

Hizashi ordered a simple pineapple juice with Malibu and sipped the drink as they carried on conversation. Once they had fallen into silence for the millionth time that day, Shouta was determined to find out why.

“Hizashi, is there something wrong?” Of course there was. Hizashi was so far away from the high life that he had wanted for himself. He had lost so much, and yet he had just shaken his head as a form of answer. “Come on, you’ve barely spoken with me all today. There must be a reason. I couldn’t keep you quiet the other day and now this?”

“It’s just… You’ve been so kind to me. So understanding. And…”

“You’re not going to say you don’t deserve this, again, are you?”

“No, no, it’s not that… It’s more… Well, I don’t know how to put it but…”

“But,” Shouta echoed.

“I should tell you… I think I love you.”

There was a silence that weighed down on them like lead. Hizashi’s expression dropped when Shouta didn’t immediately answer him.

“I’m sorry, Sho, that… that’s not what you wanted to hear…” Hizashi looked away.

Shouta took yet another moment before he could bring himself to answer.

“No. I mean, not really. I just don’t understand how you could think you love me.”

Hizashi shrugged, crestfallen.

“We hardly know each other. It’s only been a few days.” He didn’t understand how the blond could be so bold.

“It’s okay that you don’t love me back, Shouta. I didn’t expect you to… Or maybe I did, but that was too much.” Hizashi sighed. “Do you wanna leave?”

Shouta simply nodded and they collected their coats and left the scene. As they began to walk away from the building the music died down and they could finally speak normally again.

“Hizashi,” Shouta began, but was quickly cut off from saying anything more.

“I don’t want to talk about it. We can just forget that I said anything… Please.” Hizashi was walking much slower than how he had been at their arrival. He was looking at the ground ahead of him instead of up or at Shouta.

“Well, I do want to talk about it.”

“Why?” Hizashi could feel the beginnings of anxiety creep into his mind as his thoughts began to race. He’s going to kick me out, isn’t he? After that, he’s not gonna want to live with me. I’ve ruined my chances. He-

“It’s not that I don’t… feel the same…”

What? Hizashi’s attention finally left the very interesting sidewalk to catch Shouta’s gaze.

“Yeah, I… I don’t know. Maybe I love you, too, but I don’t know how to feel about it.” A beat. “Can people really fall in love so fast?”

“Well, I think so. I believe in love at first sight.”

“Is that what this was for you?”

“Um, maybe… But maybe not. I didn’t trust you the very moment I met you.”

“No, I guess I didn’t trust you completely either… but I did trust you some.”

“Yeah, me too.” Hizashi let out a breath he didn’t know he had been holding in. “Shouta, if you don’t want me to live with you because of this-”

“No, you can stay. We’ll figure this out…”

And with that, they ended the night.