Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

“Inko! Inko! Over here! Masaru’s found us a seat.” Bakugou Mitsuki waves her arms wildly over the heads of the bustling crowd. From far, the tiny figure of Midoriya Inko would’ve been indistinguishable, but Mitsuki always has a propensity in catching sight of her friend’s dark green hair and large bright eyes. The two go way back – ever since college. Who would’ve known that years later, they’re still hanging out, going to their teenage sons’ class play together. Life really is quite strange.

Inko finally arrives, her hands clutching her large handbag nervously. “I’m sorry I took so long. The crowd in the bathroom was insane!”

Mitsuki chuckles, “Really, you and your constant apologies. There’s nothing to be sorry for! Now come on, the play is about to start!”

They make their way to the large, imposing building in the background. It seems that most people in the area are also heading the same way, chattering and laughing happily, many with snacks and drinks in their hands. The air is warm but comfortable, scents of sweet honeysuckle permeating the air. In front of the building, a large banner is draped over some of the windows and top of the entrance; “UA High’s 34^th Cultural Festival – Welcome!”

Right underneath this monstrosity of a banner, and directly next to the main entrance is a large cardboard signboard featuring several very familiar looking figures. Inko squeals excitedly when she first sets eyes on the board. “Mitsuki, it’s them!”

Mitsuki casts her gaze to the board and scoffs, “Looks like the brat’s been lying to me. Main character, my ass - he’s barely in the poster!”

“Oh, but I think he’s still quite important. Look, he’s standing right beside my Izuku!” Inko gushes, and Mitsuki’s expression softens. “Izuku looks amazing, but…” she frowns, “Inko, isn’t that a dress? Why is he wearing a dress?”

Inko giggles as she takes multiple pictures of the signboard on her phone, “Katsuki didn’t tell you? It’s part of their story. Some of them are going to cross-dress.”

Mitsuki glowers, “That brat never tells me anything. Hang on, so that’s why the dresses he asked me to help provide were kinda on the larger side! I thought they had some large girls in their class or something…”

A loud trumpet sound from the inside drowns the rest of her words, and after a nod at each other, the two women start walking into the hall along with the excited crowd. They find Masaru after a couple of minutes – sitting almost at very center of the crowd.

Mitsuki grumbles as she slides into a seat next to her husband, “Can’t they give us VIP seats or something? I can barely see from here.” Masaru pats her comfortingly on the knee, “Not their faults, dear. Katsuki doesn’t even know we’re coming.” At this, Mitsuki pulls out her phone and smirks menacingly, “And he’s going to regret abandoning us, I’m gonna record every single minute of this thing and showing it in the next Bakugou family reunion.”

The lights begin to dim and the noise from the crowd drops in anticipation-

ACT 1

SCENE 1

Narrator (Tokoyami): Welcome to our theatrical extravaganza. Prepare to be feasted with our dazzling acting performance, incredible musical repertoire and immaculate dance number. This will be an experience like no other. Behold… THE MEMBERS OF CLASS 3-A!

The curtain lifts, and dazzling yellow strobe lights spill from the stage to the rest of the audience. A large sign dangles from the ceiling with the words ‘Aizawa’s Funeral Parlor’ on it. A Little Party Never Killed Nobody by Fergie booms out from surround speakers around the spacious hall. Most of 3-A are onstage, dancing exuberantly and mingling in the middle of the stage. Several others are sitting on scattered chairs and tables, drinking and chatting. A makeshift platform at the back are filled with multiple musical instruments on which Sero, Ojiro, Koda, Izuku and Shoto are pretend-playing. The ones dancing on the dance floor break into a choreographed dance until about halfway through the song (https://youtu.be/-LpZK50Qp7k). Afterwards, they free-dances while the spotlight refocuses mostly on Izuku and Shoto who are playing a bass guitar and a saxophone respectively.

IZUKU:              Tonight’s the night.

SHOTO:             (Staring at a dancing Yaoyorozu nearby) uh huh.

IZUKU:              (rolls his eyes at Shoto) I mean, we get paid tonight.

SHOTO:             Yep.

IZUKU:              Good. Cause All Might Silver Edition version 3 is going on sale tomorrow and I’m going to…

SHOTO:             Wait? What? All Might? Izuku, we’ve been out of work for weeks and the first thing you wanna do after getting paid is to buy an action figure?

IZUKU:              Yeah, look… It’s a resale. I’m not gonna get another chance if…

SHOTO:             No! We haven’t paid rent for two months now, the mad landlord’s gonna kick us out pretty soon and I can’t ask any more girls for money-

IZUKU:              (Sighs) Okay, okay. I guess you’re right.

Izuku’s attention is caught onto the right of the stage, where Iida strides in slowly but firmly, looking grim with his hands in his pockets. He stops at the edge of the dancing crowd and looks around for a bit before glaring at a table at the center front of the stage. Kirishima, Sato and Shoji are sitting there, drinking leisurely, gaze towards the crowd.

Mineta enters from stage left, walking drunkenly with a cup in his hand. He approaches the table, stumbles down and spills water onto Kirishima’s shoes. Kirishima, Sato and Shoji all stiffen and stare in shock at Mineta. Kirishima narrows his eyes, and gives a one-handed signal at Shoji. Immediately, Shoji stands up, grabs Mineta by the collar, and drags him out through the left stage.

Iida walks a bit closer to the table. One of his hands rummage in his coat pocket, and from it, he pulls out a shiny police badge. He fixes the badge on his coat.

IZUKU:               (Nudges Shoto towards Iida’s direction) I think we should leave now. All hell’s going to break loose.

Shoto nods. Together, he and Izuku pack up their instruments and sneak out into backstage. Just in time – because almost instantly, a loud crash reverberates around the hall and the music stops. From both sides of the stage, the rest of 3-A members come rushing in, all wearing police uniforms.

Iida stands up on an empty chair, cups his mouth and roars loudly-

IIDA:                 Alright people, this is a raid. I’m a federal agent, and you’re all under arrest!

Everyone on the dance floor shrieks and screams. Several try to run away but are caught by the police officers. As the noise starts to quiet down, Iida steps down and walks towards Kirishima and his minions. They are still sitting calmly in their seats.

IIDA:                 Kirishima, the show’s over. I’m taking you with us.

KIRISHIMA:       (chuckles) Oh yeah? You and I, on a honeymoon trip, eh?

IIDA:                 Stop joking around. We have evidence that you own this place.

KIRISHIMA:       This is literally a funeral parlor. Why would I want such a deathly boring place?

IIDA:                 (Ignores him) –and that you are smuggling in illegal alcohol and drugs into the establishment.

Iida spots a cup on the table and grabs it. He brings it close to his face and takes a big sniff.

SHOJI:              It’s grape juice.

Suddenly, from stage left, Mineta bursts in, still drunk as hell, walking unsteadily to the men, before finally slumping down near Iida’s feet.

IIDA:                 (throws Kirishima an unimpressed look) That’s it, you’re coming with me.

KIRISHIMA:       (smirks) You’ll hear from my lawyers soon.

Iida leads Kirishima and his goons out of the stage.

SCENE 2

The stage light darkens, leaving only the forefront spotlights on.  Izuku and Shoto are walking slowly across the stage, hauling their instrument cases with them. Izuku is muttering up a storm while Shoto is talking quietly on the phone.

IZUKU:               We’re doomed! We can’t get paid. We’re moneyless, jobless – my All Might figurine’s out of my reach now and we were just on the scene of a crime! Police and that yakuza Kirishima are going to come after us-

SHOTO:              (Finishes talking on the phone) I got us a job.

IZUKU:               -we’re gonna have to survive on cheese and crackers, and – wait, we’ve got a job?!

SHOTO:              Yes. I’m just off the phone from the agency. They have a position for a bass and sax player, starting next week. It’s at a coastal resort in Okinawa.

IZUKU:               Okinawa?! Bass and Sax?! Really? Oh wow! This is amazing! It’s almost too good to be true, but I guess our luck has finally arrived and I can finally get the-

SHOTO:              Yes, well… About that, there is one complication…

IZUKU:               Oh no…

SHOTO:              It’s a girls-only band.

IZUKU:                What??! Shoto, are you crazy? How are we supposed to get in then?

SHOTO:              Well, I thought we could get wigs and dresses and pretend to be girls for a couple of weeks-

IZUKU:                NO! Shoto! Do you hear yourself? I don’t wanna lie! Also, we can’t dress up as girls. No one will believe us!

SHOTO:              (Shoto rakes his eyes over his friend appraisingly) On the contrary, I think you’ll fit in splendidly. Also – we’re desperate, and I already said yes-

Izuku splutters uncomprehendingly and watches as Shoto makes his way casually off the stage. After a couple of seconds, Izuku follows suit, still looking astounded.

END OF ACT 1

Down in the audience, Inko clasps her hands admiringly, “They’re all so amazing!”

“Eh, the Todoroki boy’s a little stiff,” Mitsuki says offhandedly. “Izuku’s fantastic, though! I can’t wait for more.”

“I wonder when Katsuki will come out?” Masaru asks.

Mitsuki shrugs, “Who knows. Maybe he’s the villain.”

“I hope he’s not! He’s much better off as the hero,” Inko says thoughtfully.

“Ah, look! The curtain’s going up!”

ACT 2

SCENE 1

Narrator (Tokoyami): And so, terrified from being hounded by both the authority and the yakuza, as well as a growing concern over their lack of finances, our boys find themselves in a situation they could not avoid. Now, two weeks later…

Most of the stage lights up again, and the audience is allowed a view of a splendid seafront resort. A huge cardboard cutout of the resort building adorns the background, the middle stage is filled with sand and fake coconut trees. The same makeshift platform with musical instruments as before are placed at the right side of the stage. At the very front of the stage, shiny fabrics of delicate shades of blue are artistically placed on the ground to signify ocean waves. Right next to them, a small jetty protrudes towards the audience.

Kokomo by the Beach Boys play faintly at the background. On beach recliners right in front of the resort building, lounge Katsuki, Sero, Aoyama and Mineta. They perk up instantly when the excited, chattering girls of class 3-A enter the stage from the right, led by Jiro. Among them, the audience can spot Izuku and Shoto, both wearing sundresses, makeup and long-haired wigs (Izuku’s wig matches his original color, but Shoto’s is all red with white streaks).  

JIRO:                   Alright girls, welcome to the resort! Especially, to our newcomers, Izumi and Shoko, let’s not forget all the things we’ve practiced so far. Our first performance is tonight, and I will not let any guests leave tonight without us and our music stuck in their minds. Let’s hear it for us, girls!

3-A GIRLS:            GIRLS!!

JIRO:                   Good job. Now, let’s carry our luggage into the rooms and get some rest.

The girls grab their things and walk slowly towards the resort, before exiting backstage. They’re all loud and chatty. Mineta and Sero get up and approach some of them, following them all the way backstage, while Katsuki sits and watches Izuku, Shoto and Mina who are lingering at the back.

MINA:                   I have to say – I’m so excited to see new faces! I was the newest one here before you two, and even though everyone is so nice, I feel kinda left out for a bit, you know-

SHOTO:                 (looking enamored) Oh yes, the pleasure’s all mine. Let’s be friends! Close friends…

IZUKU:                  (holding three luggage at the same time) Uh, you guys… A little help?

SHOTO:                 (Ignores Izuku) So, you’re a dancer, huh? Where did you learn how to dance?

MINA:                   Since childhood! My parents paid for ballet at first, then I got rebellious and went into more contemporary dances. That made my parents mad, so I ran away and here I am-

SHOTO:                 Oh wow. You’re so brave…

IZUKU:                  (Grabbing a fourth bag, hiding his face completely from view) Uh…guys??

MINA:                   Yeah well, to be honest, I’m tired of running away now. I’m actually ready to settle down, find a nice guy-

SHOTO:                 -Yeah?

MINA:                   -preferably someone rich. Hey, maybe I can snag some of these yacht owners here, huh?

SHOTO:                 Oh…

Izuku is now lingering really far at the back, trying hard to maneuver his way with all the baggage. He doesn’t see Katsuki approaching him until he takes one of the luggage away.

IZUKU:                    Finally! Thanks! (Sees Katsuki and stops in his tracks) Uh, who are you?

KATSUKI:                Bakugou Katsuki, also known as Great Explosion Murder God Dynamight, heir of the great Ground Zero empire.

IZUKU:                    Oh…okay.

KATSUKI:                You’ve got pretty strong arms there.

IZUKU:                    Thanks. I work out.

KATSUKI:                Hmm… I like strong girls.

IZUKU:                    Me too. Bye now.

Izuku tries to grab the other luggage from Katsuki, but Katsuki dodges him easily with a smirk. Izuku huffs and starts walking away from Katsuki. Katsuki looks down at the tag on the luggage.

KATSUKI:                  Your name’s Midoriya Deku?

IZUKU:                     No. It’s not.

KATSUKI:                  Hmm… You know, I’m pretty familiar with the entertainment industry too.

IZUKU:                      Uh huh. You own a showbiz company or something?

KATSUKI:                  No. Just the girls.

IZUKU:                     (Confused) Huh?

KATSUKI:                  Showgirls. Fine as hell each one of em. Shame the Old Hag had to shoo them away.

IZUKU:                     Why?

KATSUKI:                  Don’t know. She’s crazy, that Old Hag. I think the last one was because the girl’s an otaku or something.

Down in the audience, Mitsuki bares her teeth and growls at the stage. Masaru and Inko try not to laugh.

KATSUKI:                  Anyway… (he leans in closer to Izuku’s face) I might not be a performer myself, but I’ve been told I have exceptional talents regardless. I can give a private showing after dinner tonight if you want-

IZUKU:                     (Hurriedly grabs the last luggage and speeds away) No, thank you. BYE!-

Katsuki is left standing there alone, before he trails away, looking satisfied with himself. Aoyama, the last one there, still in the recliner, stretches lazily, then stands up and exits the stage.

SCENE 2

As the lights on the resort front dims, the left side of the stage is given spotlight. Here, a small bedroom has been constructed, made up of two twin beds, a nightstand and a dressing table. The door to the room opens and in comes Shoto and Izuku, the latter looking disgruntled.

IZUKU:                       -that guy gives me the creep. Talking about all the girls he’s been with. I was clearly not interested!

SHOTO:                      That’s the daily life of a girl, I guess. Harassments everywhere.

Izuku groans and falls into one of the beds. Someone knocks at the door. Both boys glance at each other, urgently fixing their wigs.

SHOTO:                       Come in!

The door opens and in walks Kaminari, holding two luggage.

KAMINARI:                  These your bags, sugar bun?

SHOTO:                       (Looking disgusted) Yes. Leave them there.

KAMINARI:                  You know… I usually ask for tips, but for you, darling, I’d give myself away for free.

SHOTO:                       Please, get lost.

KAMINARI:                  I already am. Deep in your eyes.

Kaminari makes his way out of the door while giving Shoto finger guns. Shoto looks nauseous. As the blond walks out, Mina comes in, looking upset.

IZUKU:                        Hey Mina, what’s wrong?

MINA:                         Nothing much. I just realized that my room number is 612. That was the last room number I had back when I was with a male performing band. I don’t have good memories there.

SHOTO:                       What happened?

MINA:                         I was dating the saxophone player in the band. He was awful to me.

SHOTO:                       Oh… A saxophone player.

MINA:                         Yeah, I’ve always had a thing for saxophone players.

SHOTO:                       (Looking intrigued) I see-

MINA:                         Yeah, but now I know better. I’m going to look for a proper, stable man. I’m sure there’s plenty of those here! Maybe I’ll meet one when we go to the beach later.

SHOTO:                       Hmm… (He spots one of the luggage Kaminari has brought in earlier and frowns)

IZUKU:                        Oooh! Let’s go to the beach now! I’m tired of being stuck inside.

MINA:                         Okay! I’ll tell the other girls. Let’s meet at the beach. Shoko-chan, you coming?

SHOTO:                       (He’s opening the luggage and is looking at the contents with a shocked expression) Uh no. No thanks. I’m a bit tired. I’ll stay here for a while.

MINA:                         Okay then. Let’s go, Izumi!

Mina and Izuku leave through the door. Shoto is left, still staring into the luggage. After a while, he looks cautiously left and right, before pulling from within the depths - a pair of black trousers and a captain’s cap.

The light dims there, replaced by the lights on the set of the beachfront.

SCENE 2

Here, the girls (and Izuku) are playing on the beach. Some running around, a few building sand castles, and others playing beach volleyball. Izuku and Mina are throwing a volleyball to each other until the ball rolls over to the side of the stage. In comes Shoto, dressed in male attire (complete with glasses and a captain’s cap), holding a book in one hand. He walks over to the ball and stops it with his foot.

MINA:                         Oh I’m terribly sorry. That’s our ball!

SHOTO:                       Hmm. That’s alright. (He leans on a coconut tree and looks away, pretending to look bored).

MINA:                         (Glances up into Shoto’s face) Have I seen you around before?

SHOTO:                       I don’t think so.

MINA:                         You look very familiar.

SHOTO:                       I suppose that’s what happens when your face is regularly plastered in the Times magazine.

MINA:                         Oh my, really? Yes, that must be it-

SHOTO:                       (Looks at Mina distractedly) I’m sorry, but could you move aside a little bit? You’re blocking my view-

MINA:                         Of what?-

SHOTO:                       My yacht. I need to check whether they’ve let up the red and white flag that usually means dinner is ready.

MINA:                         (Excitedly) You have a yacht?! Wow!! Which one them is yours? Is it that big one?

SHOTO:                       Definitely not. I may have too much yen to spend, but I don’t believe it’s proper to bring a yacht for 12 people when it’s only just you there.

MINA:                         Oh, I agree! So you’re here alone?

SHOTO:                       Well, me and my crew.

MINA:                         I see…And none of those crews are married to you?

SHOTO:                       (stares at Mina for a few seconds) If you’re interested in whether I’m married or not-

MINA:                         I’m not interested-

SHOTO:                       -because I’m not.

MINA:                         Interesting.

They stand in silence for a while. Mina comes up a bit closer to Shoto’s side.

MINA:                         Say, if you’re interested, would you like to see me perform tonight? Me and the girls have our first showing at 8.

SHOTO:                       Oh, you’re a performer? What kind of performance do you do?

MINA:                         I’m a dancer. We have a band. Our music’s a bit of everything, but tonight’s going to be rather hot!

SHOTO:                       Hot, huh? Well, some do like it hot, I suppose.

MINA:                         Uh huh. So are you coming?

SHOTO:                       Unfortunately, I can’t. I have an online business meeting to attend tonight.

MINA:                         Oh yes, you must be so busy. Say…what company did you say you own?

SHOTO:                       I didn’t own the company. It’s my family’s. My boring deadbeat dad is trying to force me into running it though.

MINA:                         Oh, that sucks. I can understand that. I ran away from home.

SHOTO:                       Well, yes. I suppose I could do that too. But I’m too recognizable. People see my hair and immediately think of Pepsi, after all-

MINA:                         Pepsi – wait, that Pepsi? Your family company is Pepsi?

SHOTO:                       Pepsico, actually. But yes…(Shoto looks around surreptiously) Don’t tell anyone, though. And don’t say my name out loud. You can just call me Junior.

Izuku has finally noticed Mina’s absence, and is approaching them.

IZUKU:                        Mina, what were you doing? Come on, let’s get ready for dinner!

MINA:                         (Glances at Shoto) Oh um, Okay. I guess I’ll see you around, Junior-san.

Izuku grabs Mina’s hand and is about to pull her away when he suddenly stops. Slowly, he turns his head towards Shoto, his eyes wide in disbelief.

IZUKU:                        You – You…

SHOTO:                       Please stop staring like that. It’s a bit rude.

MINA:                         Yes, Izumi. He doesn’t like the attention. He’s very famous as he is.

IZUKU:                        (Sarcastically) Oh, really?

MINA:                         Yes. You probably have seen his face in the Times magazine.

IZUKU:                        (Glares at Shoto) Uh huh-

MINA:                         Anyway, we’d better go. We’re blocking his view of his yacht.

IZUKU:                        His yacht??!

MINA:                         Yes, oh I’m sorry for taking your time, Junior-san. If you can make time just for a little bit, please come tonight!

SHOTO:                       I’ll try my best. It’s been delightful talking to you.

Mina and Izuku walk away, Mina waving sweetly back at Shoto. Shoto waves back, then sneaks off stage.

IZUKU:                        I can’t believe that guy!

MINA:                         (Dreamily) I know…

IZUKU:                        Look, Mina. You should be careful. Don’t trust a guy that easily.

MINA:                         (Ignores him) Oh, it’s my lucky day. Wait til I tell Shoko!

IZUKU:                        (grins menacingly) Oh, that’s a good idea! Let’s run and tell Shoko now!

The lights go out just as the two run away through the right stage.

Lights appear on the left – setting the bedroom once again into view. Shoto is seen hurriedly throwing his cap off his head and under the bed. Then he pulls on his wig, jumps into the bed and covers himself quickly with the blanket – just as the door opens and Izuku and Mina burst inside.

IZUKU:                        AHA! Caught in the-

SHOTO:                       (Looks up from his pillow) What’s up?

MINA:                         Oh, Shoko! The most wonderful thing happened.

SHOTO:                       Endeavor fell down the stairs?

MINA:                         What? No. I met one of them today!

In the background, Izuku is walking around, inspecting the room carefully.

SHOTO:                       One of what?

MINA:                         Them! Tall, handsome, super rich! His family owns Pepsi. His name is Junior. He has a yacht!

SHOTO:                       Lucky you!

Izuku glares at him.

MINA:                         He’s coming to watch us tonight – maybe.

IZUKU:                        Oh I’m a hundred percent sure he will, Mina.

MINA:                         You think so?

IZUKU:                        (While smirking at Shoto) Absolutely.

Just then, the door opens and Uraraka pokes her head inside.

URARAKA:                   Mina, do you have the key to our room? We need to get ready for dinner now.

MINA:                         Oh alright. See you two soon!

URARAKA:                   Bye!

The door closes behind them. Izuku and Shoto glare at each other.

IZUKU:                        You’re the worst. You know that, Shoto? The worst. I’ve seen you play girls around before but this is the cruelest one. And to sweet, kind Mina?

SHOTO:                       I am not playing her around. Not to Mina. Not this time.

IZUKU:                        I don’t know if I can believe that.

SHOTO:                       (grabs Izuku’s hand) Come on, Izuku. You’re my best friend. Don’t you trust me? Please don’t ruin this for us.

IZUKU:                        (Stares at Shoto for a long time before finally walking away to sit in front of the dresser) Fine. Don’t mess it up this time. And make sure to tell her the truth in the end. I don’t know how you do it, but she deserves the truth.

SHOTO:                       Alright. I promise.

Izuku turns around and starts fixing his makeup. The hotel phone rings.

IZUKU:                        Pick it up, Shoto.

SHOTO:                       (Picks up the phone) Hello. (Pause) Yes, this is room 611. Who? Oh alright. Let him through.

From across the stage, a single spotlight shines down on Katsuki, standing alone holding a phone to his ear.

KATSUKI:                     Hello? Deku?

SHOTO:                       Who?

KATSUKI:                     Midoriya Deku. Wait who’s this?

SHOTO:                       It’s her roommate. And her name’s not Deku.

KATSUKI:                     Whatever. Give her a message from me, then. Tell her it’s Katsuki, the hot, smart, super talented guy who helped her with her luggage. She’ll know who I am-

SHOTO:                       Uh huh.

KATSUKI:                     I’m picking her up after her show tonight. Tell her to get ready and wait for me. We’re gonna go on my yacht for some late supper. I’ve bought some expensive as hell food – lobster, escargot, caviar-

SHOTO:                       (Sounding bored) I think she prefers Katsudon – wait, did you just say yacht?

KATSUKI:                     Yeah, you deaf or what? I’ve got one called the Queen Explosion near the jetty. I used to have a King Explosion, but it went down during a whole night of partying like the awesome beast I am. But tell Deku not to worry this time, it’s just gonna be me and her. Just the two of us-

SHOTO:                       Just the two of you?

KATSUKI:                     YEAH! WHY DO I HAVE TO KEEP REPEATING MYSELF, YOU ASSHO-

Narrator (Tokoyami):   (Cuts in) And so, Izuku finds himself promised into a date with the wild-tempered Katsuki, while Shoto figures out a plan to get himself the yacht he needed to woo the lovely Mina.

END OF ACT 2

TRANSMISSION

Masaru stretches his limbs, “That was very enjoyable. Anyone wants some snacks?”

He turns around and freezes. Both women are clutching each other’s arms, identical looks of elation on their faces.

“I can’t believe it. Our boys! Together, at last!” Mitsuki says, a manic glint in her eyes.

“Yes, in a play.” Masaru points out.

Inko’s eyes are full of tears. She’s also not listening to a thing Masaru said. “Oh, my baby! Going on a date. And such a romantic one!”

“Uh… I’m gonna go get myself some Pepsi. Anyone want anything else?”

His words fall on deaf ears as both mothers start to gush and squeal to each other. Masaru smiles to himself and slips out of his seat. Despite knowing the reality, he does feel extremely pleased that the boys are getting along well with each other. He’s surprised Katsuki even goes along with it. It’s a sign of how much his son has grown, and Masaru can’t remember feeling any prouder. He hurries towards the nearest food stall. He needs to get back before the show starts.

ACT 3

SCENE 1

The scene opens to the beachfront again, this time, with a few noticeable changes. For once, it’s nighttime now, judging by the dimmer, bluish color of the strobe lights surrounding the stage, as well as the large fully lit full moon hanging a few feet from the ceiling. The atmosphere however, is almost as wild as the opening scene – except there’s only one person dancing. Mina dominates the center of the set, the audience (composed of most of the male 3-A students) around her. On the makeshift stage on the side, the rest of the girls sit in pretty, sparkly dresses behind their musical instruments (Jiro as the main vocal, Uraraka on drums, Tsuyu and Hagakure on guitars, Yaoyorozu on piano and synthesizer, and of course – Izuku on bass and Shoto with his saxophone). The song on full blast is Mr. Saxobeat by Alexandra Stan (Except for Jiro with her vocals, none of the girls are actually playing anything).

Spotlight on Mina in a dazzling bodysuit dress, dancing fast to the beat (https://youtu.be/YFmB6-UqGY8).

During one particular dancing scene, where the song drops its tempo a bit, and Mina falls into a slower, more sensual dance, the spotlights dim a bit on her, and instead fall on Izuku and Shoto on the side.

SHOTO:                       (leans into Izuku) Your boyfriend’s looking at you.

Another spotlight falls onto Katsuki, sitting at the far end, a bit away from the others. He has his eyes on no one but Izuku.

IZUKU:                        Ugh.

SHOTO:                       Remember our plans. Give him a smile now.

Izuku throws him a large, fake smile. Katsuki smirks back.

SHOTO:                       Now throw him a kiss.

Izuku grimaces but complies. He blows a quick kiss into Katsuki’s direction and then glares at Shoto.

IZUKU:                        You owe me big time.

Kaminari suddenly appears at their side, carrying a large green plush bunny.

KAMINARI:                  This is for a…Miss Deku.

IZUKU:                        It’s Izuku!

KAMINARI:                  (Turns to Shoto) Hello again, Sweet Cheeks. Wanna dance later?

Shoto ignores him and pretends to play on his saxophone. Izuku admires his stuffed bunny. The song finally ends. With a loud applause by everyone, Mina bows and curtsies.

SHOTO:                       (Grabs the bunny from Izuku) Gimme that for a sec.

IZUKU:                        Hey!

SHOTO:                       Just ask him to buy another one.

Shoto pulls the card attached to the bunny and hands it to Izuku, who begins to read it with slightly flushed cheeks. Meanwhile, Shoto pulls another card from his bra (the dress doesn’t have pockets), and discreetly slips it in between the bunny’s collar.

Mina comes bounding towards them, her face flushed with exertion.

IZUKU:                        That was an awesome performance, Mina!

MINA:                         Thanks! You guys too! (She looks around the stage once, then looks back at them a bit more sadly). I guess he’s not coming.

SHOTO:                       (Clears his throat) This came for you earlier. (Hands her the plush bunny).

Mina squeals excitedly. Then she spots the card attached to the collar and starts reading it out loud

MINA:                         Dear girl from the beach, I found out that your name is actually Mina. How appropriately beautiful! I am terribly sorry for my absence tonight. As a compensation, how would you like to visit my yacht for supper later? I’ll be waiting by the jetty after your show. Love, Junior.

Mina squeals again, and hugs the card and the bunny close to her chest. Izuku narrows his eyes at Shoto.

MINA:                         I’m so excited! I can’t wait! I’m going to see a millionaire’s yacht!

IZUKU:                        You know what they say about stranger danger.

Shoto nudges him on the ribs.

JIRO:                           Alright, everyone, I hope you guys enjoyed our show tonight. We’ll give you more excitement tomorrow so come back again, and spread the news!

The audience onstage applause. Mina gets up and bounds away, still squealing happily. Shoto, on the other hand, starts packing away his saxophone in a rush before bidding Izuku farewell and sprinting across the stage to the other side. Izuku packs up slowly along with the other girls. He doesn’t look up as Katsuki makes his way among the crowd towards him.

KATSUKI:                     (Clears throat) Hey.

IZUKU:                        Hey Ka-Kacchan.

KATSUKI:                     (Snorts) What did you just call me?

IZUKU:                        (Pouts) Kacchan. You don’t like it?

KATSUKI:                     Huh, whatever. So, ready to go?

IZUKU:                        About that…(He looks up nervously) Do you mind if we stay onshore tonight?

KATSUKI:                     Hah? Why?

IZUKU:                        I – uh – um, seasick?

KATSUKI:                     (Frowns at him) Fine. We’ll go dancing, then.

IZUKU:                        Da-dancing??

KATSUKI:                     Yeah, you dolt. Dancing. Now let’s go!

Katsuki grabs Izuku’s wrist and drags him off the stage. As the rest of the class disperses away, the lights dim and relights onto the bedroom where the audience can see a male Shoto struggling to pull a black, expensive-looking jacket on as quick as he can. He’s already wearing the normal shirts and pants and the fake glasses, but he forgets to take off his earrings. Then, he shoves off his high heels and switches to a pair of black loafers. He hurriedly drags a hand through his white-red hair and rushes out of the room. The lights onstage follow him as he crosses the stage towards the jetty near the beach, where an anxious-looking Mina is waiting.

MINA:                         Oh, you’re he – oh…

SHOTO:                       What’s wrong?

MINA:                         You, uh – have an interesting choice in personal accessories.

Shoto reaches up to his face and finds the earrings still dangling on his ears. He swiftly takes them off (they’re clip-ons) and stuffs them in his pockets.

SHOTO:                       Oh these are from my clients. They’re from, uh – Zulu, and has eccentric fashion choices. They gave me these as a gift a long time ago, and I thought it would be, uh – nice to wear it during the meeting.

MINA:                         (Mina looks a bit suspicious but brushes it off with a smile) Wow, that’s very kind and open-minded of you! I admire that!

SHOTO:                       Thanks. Shall we go?

Shoto extends a hand to Mina, who accepts it demurely. A real-looking motorboat is waiting on the side, and within a few seconds, the two are safely inside.  Shoto grasps the steering wheel and pretends to drive, while Mina stares admiringly at him.

The lights start to dim throughout the whole stage, blanketing everything in darkness.

SCENE 2

Lights come up onstage again. They’re bright, multicolored, and moving erratically around, bathing the 3-A members below in a frantic flurry of colors. A lot of them are there, dancing around to Beggin by Madcon.

The song abruptly fizzles out to a stop, causing a few students to yell in outrage. Suddenly, the lights turn into a standstill before morphing into dim shades of yellow. A bright spotlight is suddenly pointed at the very center where Izuku is standing alone.

Cue (I’ve Had) The Time of My Life by Bill Medley and Jennifer Warnes.

Suddenly, the background wall burst into color. A screen is projected from overhead showing what seems to be a Just Dance 4 game screen.

Narrator (Tokoyami):   Apologies to the audience. We are now showing a live projection of the Just Dance choreography from the game. This is unrelated to the play and is only here, because the only way we can get Bakugou Katsuki to dance is to make it into a competition with his rival. So, once again, we apologize for this breach in illusion. By all means, you may pretend it is not there.

Onstage, Izuku has started to move. It is now apparent that he’s holding a Nintendo Switch controller in one hand. A second later, Katsuki appears, another Switch controller grasped in his hand.

Both boys meet each other in the middle of stage, share a fierce, determined glare, and start to dance (https://youtu.be/F0ws9zgSXrE). The crowd (both onstage and offstage) go wild.

Around two minutes in, the rest of the class start to join in the choreography, pairing off with each other and dancing in sync with the main couple.

Around the 2:50 mark, Izuku backs off towards the side of the stage leaving Katsuki alone in the middle. The spotlight focuses on them just as Izuku rushes in from the side and makes a jump (which crackles slightly with green electricity), landing almost perpendicularly to Katsuki’s raised arms. The crowd goes frantic, some even standing up on their seats to cheer as the duo does the famous Dirty Dancing pose.

Katsuki finally lets go of Izuku and the boy falls into his arms in a momentary embrace. The audience could catch a glimpse of the happy, exhilarated expressions on both of their faces (Much like the actors in the real movie, this stunt took them a long time to perfect).

The audience wolf whistles at the end, when the boys tenderly slow-dance with the other, but as the song fades out, instead of separating, Katsuki leans closer to Izuku.

KATSUKI:                     Deku, will you marry me?

The lights dim to darkness.

SCENE 3

When the lights come back on, everyone is gone, except for Shoto and Mina, both in the motorboat by the dock. Shoto comes out first, then extends his hand to Mina who grabs it. They both leave the boat, dreamy, love-struck looks on their faces. Mina leans into Shoto’s side while Shoto has his arm over her shoulder. They start walking slowly back up the beach towards the resort. In the background, At Last by Etta James is playing faintly.

MINA:                           Tonight has been amazing! Thank you so much.

SHOTO:                         No, thank you. I have never felt this happy before.

Halfway through, the audience can see Katsuki sauntering in from right stage, seemingly drunk from happiness. He’s humming the tune to the opening song of an old All Might movie. He doesn’t even notice Shoto and Mina as he makes his way down the jetty to the recently vacated motorboat.

Shoto and Mina reach the entrance of the resort and both stop to look at each other.

SHOTO:                          Well…

MINA:                            Well…

SHOTO:                          Goodnight then.

MINA:                            Goodnight (Mina looks down shyly) Dream of me tonight.

SHOTO:                          Every night.

Shoto leans down and just as they’re about to kiss, the lights dim. A few seconds later, the lights refocus back onto the scene of the bedroom where Deku is lying on the bed, still wearing his dress. He has a blissed out look on his face, and is humming the opening song of an old All Might movie.

Shoto opens the door and walks in.

SHOTO:                            Izuku, how’s it going?

IZUKU:                             Wonderful! Everything is freaking plus ultra!

SHOTO:                            I take it your night has gone well also.

IZUKU:                             Yes. I’m engaged!

SHOTO:                            Congratulations. Who’s the lucky girl?

IZUKU:                             (Giddily) Me!

Izuku sits up to look at a flabbergasted Shoto. He takes something from the nightstand and shows it off to Shoto and the audience. Everyone can see that it’s an All Might figurine in a box.

IZUKU:                             He gave me this pristine condition, Golden era All Might collector’s edition! You don’t know how rare and priceless this is! And he says he’s gonna get me more!

SHOTO:                            Glad to see you’ve met another All Might nutcase.

IZUKU:                             We’re getting married in spring. He wanted a summer wedding but when I told him my birthday’s July, he said he’d like to celebrate our future anniversaries and my birthdays on separate occasions so he can spoil me more. Do you know how romantic that is?

SHOTO:                            (Frowns at Izuku) Aren’t you aware of one massive problem right now?

IZUKU:                             Yeah, I am. His mom seems to not like any of the girls he’s dated before.

SHOTO:                            (Sarcastically) Thank god you’re not a girl.

IZUKU:                             I know, right!  

SHOTO:                            Izuku, get yourself together. You’re a boy!

IZUKU:                             I’m – I’m a boy.

SHOTO:                            Yes. Keep telling yourself that.

IZUKU:                             I’m a boy – I’m a boy. (Izuku’s face drains in color, and he slumps down, holding his head in between his hands) What am I gonna do?!

SHOTO:                            Break off the engagement. You can’t keep lying to him about your gender.

IZUKU:                             (Glares at him) Pot calling the kettle black much?

SHOTO:                            (Visibly horrified) Kettle? Where?

Before any of the boys can react, someone knocks on their door. Shoto immediately dives under the cover, grabbing his wig on the way, then cramming it on his head.

IZUKU:                             Come in!

Mina floats in, looking blissfully happy. She lands on Izuku’s bed and lies there squealing into the pillow.

MINA:                              Oh, girls… Junior’s such a dream come true!

IZUKU:                             Oh… I bet he is.

MINA:                              He says he’ll be meeting me again. I can’t wait!

IZUKU:                             I hope he stays true to that promise (Glares at Shoto).

SHOTO:                            Of course he will. He sounds completely into you, Mina.

MINA:                              Oh, but Izuku’s right, you know. I’ve had my fair share of men leaving me high and dry, in the end.

Shoto looks sadly at Mina as the lights overhead slowly fade to darkness.

END OF ACT 3

“Wait, we didn’t get a kiss!” Mitsuki roars when the curtain goes down.

“Dear, please.” Masaru attempts to quiet her down to no avail, especially since on Mitsuki’s other side, Inko has started to sob.

“Oh dear, that was so beautiful. They danced so beautifully!”

“And that marriage proposal! Oh that damn brat, I can’t believe he didn’t at least give Izuku a proper ring.”

Masaru gives up and simply leans back on his chair, sighing quietly to himself. “I have to admit, the storyline’s rather familiar. I think we’ve watched a movie like that before, don’t we, dear?”

ACT 4

SCENE 1

When the curtain lifts, the audience can see the beachfront at daytime again, only this time, things are significantly less festive. A large table is placed at the middle of the set with a banner draped over the front of it. The are words written on top: Welcome! Annual Gathering of Japanese Tattoo Lovers.

Several members of class 3-A are loitering around, talking in low voices. Most of them have some kind of tattoos over their bodies.

From stage right, Kirishima enters, flanked as usual by Sato and Shoji. The three of them are wearing more casual, shorter sleeved shirts, exposing their multiple colorful tattoos over their skin. Kirishima walks over to the table. Behind it, stands Sero, also sporting his own tattoo over his forearms. Sero gives Kirishima a lazy smirk when he approaches.

SERO:                              Ah, Kirishima! We didn’t think you would actually come.

KIRISHIMA:                      And why is that?

SERO:                              Word on the street is that you got yourself into a lil bit of tussle with the police, eh?

KIRISHIMA:                      That has been glossed over fairly smoothly.

SERO:                              (Sero’s face darkens slightly) Hmm… We’ll see about that.

KIRISHIMA:                      Get me registered.

SERO:                              Certainly. (He motions towards Koda and Ojiro in the background) Before you proceed, my men’s gotta check you up. You know, standard protocol.

KIRISHIMA:                      Oh come on. This is completely unnecessary.

Koda frisks Kirishima, while Ojiro checks on Shoji and Sato. Koda straightens up and gives Sero a thumbs up, but Shoji takes a longer time because he seems to have found some very interesting items within several of Shoji’s extra appendages.

OJIRO:                             (Pulls out some guns and bullets from Shoji) Uh huh. These are confiscated.

SHOJI:                             Oh uh, those are for laser tags.

Ojiro throws Shoji an unimpressed stare before throwing the confiscated materials into a box on the table.

SHOJI:                             You may proceed.

As Kirishima, Sato and Shoji pass by the front of the resort building, one of the men lounging in the recliners stand up. The man is wearing a large sunhat and sunglasses that cover his face, but when he removes them, it is revealed that he is actually Iida.

SATO:                              Officer Iida!

KIRISHIMA:                      Well, well… If it isn’t my personal stalker. Sorry to disappoint you Officer, but this isn’t time for our honeymoon yet.

IIDA:                                I’m not going to let you get away this time. You mark my words, soon I’ll have enough evidence to convict you once and for all!

KIRISHIMA:                      (Yawns) Whatever you say, Officer. Now let me through. I’ve got some tattoo conversations to indulge in.

IIDA:                                I know fully well this whole tattoo business is nothing but a front.

Kirishima ignores him and walks casually towards the edge of the stage, Shoji and Sato following behind. Iida watches them for a while, before sitting down in the recliner again, looking angry.

From stage right, Izuku and Shoto enter. As they pass by Kirishima and his yakuza gang, Izuku stumbles and one of his high heels slips off. Sato immediately scurries over to grab it off the floor.

SATO:                              Here you go, miss (leans down and hands over the shoe).

Sato pauses when he sees Izuku’s face. Izuku on the other hand, looks like he had just seen a ghost.

SATO:                              Hey lil miss, have I seen you around somewhere?

IZUKU:                             Oh, I don’t think so. Thank you for the shoe. Goodbye now!

Izuku rushes over to Shoto, who is already at the other side of the beach, looking bored.

IZUKU:                             Shoto, look over there! Did you see those guys??

SHOTO:                            Great. It’s those yakuza people again.

IZUKU:                             I think we should leave now!

SHOTO:                            But we didn’t do anything wrong. Why would they hunt us down?

IZUKU:                             I don’t know. But I have a bad feeling about this, Shoto. I feel really unsafe. Let’s just leave?

SHOTO:                            I – I can’t. I can’t leave Mina.

IZUKU:                             (Pats Shoto’s shoulder gently) You have to leave her eventually.

SHOTO:                            (Looks away sadly) I’ll leave her a text message. I know it’s a cowardly move, but I don’t think I’ll be able to move on if I see her again.

Shoto pulls out his phone and starts typing.

IZUKU:                             What are you telling her? The truth?

SHOTO:                            No. Just that… I have to get back home immediately, and I won’t be coming back. And… that she should forget about me.

IZUKU:                             Shoto, don’t you think you should be telling her the truth?

SHOTO:                            I can’t…

Just then, Kirishima, Sato and Shoji approach them.

KIRISHIMA:                      Hello, ladies. This might be nothing of importance, but my friend here thinks he might’ve seen you two before. Perhaps in a darker, more somber place, eh?

IZUKU:                             (Panics) No! NO! You’re completely mistaken, good sir. We’re just two lowly musicians here.

KIRISHIMA:                      Musicians, eh? I remember losing a couple of stray musicians a few weeks back. Might need them back, you know.

IZUKU:                             We’ll – we’ll let em know, if we ever meet them!

Izuku and Shoto back away hurriedly. They exit stage right and disappear from view.

KIRISHIMA:                      (Sighs) After them, boys.

Sato and Shoji immediately follow after.

SCENE 2

Izuku and Shoto appear from stage left just as the lights there turn on. The bedroom set from before is now gone, replaced by a long, clothed, conference table with a couple of drinks on top, several chairs and a large covered trolley with an incredibly massive cake on top (while the cake is cardboard, Sato has decorated the outside with cream and icing, making it look quite real).

Panicked and breathless, Izuku dives and crawls under the conference table, hiding him from view. Shoto seems reluctant at first, but upon hearing voices from the edge of the stage, he ducks in after Izuku.

Sato and Shoji burst in from the same direction. They look around wildly at first but upon seeing no one there, they leave the stage again. From under the table, Izuku pokes out his head, looking around quickly.

IZUKU:                             I think the coast is clear. We should-

Izuku freezes because from the behind the door, everyone can hear two arguing voices. The door slams open just as Izuku pulls his head back under the table. Sero and Aoyama enter.

SERO:                              I really don’t wanna get in trouble with the authority.

AOYAMA:                         But this is explicit instruction from Big Boss Tokoyami himself. I would’ve done it myself, but my hair would be ruined (fluffs up his blond hair).

Sero sighs loudly and makes his way towards the giant cake. Aoyama follows after and grabs one side of the cake with a heave. The top of the cake flips open like it’s on a hinge. The two boys peer inside the hollow hole inside the cake for a few seconds before Aoyama extends his hand graciously towards Sero.

AOYAMA:                         S'il vous plait, Sero-kun.

Sero rolls his eyes and takes the hand. With Aoyama’s help, he manages to cram his long body inside the cake.

AOYAMA:                         Now remember, wait until they start toasting before you come jumping out. Aim the gun, and shoot!

SERO:                              I know how to shoot a gun.

AOYAMA:                         Good. (Closes the top of the cake over Sero’s head) I’ll be leaving now. Au revoir!

Silence engulfs the room, Izuku pokes his head out of the table again, followed by Shoto. Both look terrified. Izuku motions silently towards the door, and the two are about to crawl out before the door is suddenly slammed open again. Swift as a lightning, the two boys duck back under the table.

From the doorway, Tokoyami walks in, looking somber. He has Dark Shadow draped over his head and shoulders, giving him an intimidating, menacing appearance. Five people trail in behind him; Ojiro, Koda, Kirishima, Sato and Shoji. Tokoyami, Ojiro and Koda take a seat on one side of the table, while Kirishima and his gang take up the other side.

TOKOYAMI:                      Well, I won’t waste my breath anymore. It has been a long year, indeed. Full of ups and downs, accomplishments and mistakes. While I appreciate your faithful and unwavering devotion to the organization, I still can’t help but flinch over the various hiccups you’ve encountered recently. The incident at the funeral parlor? That was mortifying, at the very least.

KIRISHIMA:                      We settled that already, didn’t we? None of us faced actual prosecution. We slipped through pretty easily.

TOKOYAMI:                      It does not bode well for us if we rub against the police the wrong way. One wrong move, and those sneaky bastards will be up poking their noses in every crevice we’ve hidden well so far.

KIRISHIMA:                      Tch. What police? The only one who’s up against our flanks is that annoying Iida dude.

TOKOYAMI:                      Also, I’ve heard rumors of two witnesses who’ve slipped away right under your watch.

KIRISHIMA:                      We’ve almost got them just now. Rest assured, they’ll be gone from our business pretty soon.

TOKOYAMI:                      Not to mention the amount of money you’ve costed us from the confiscated booze and drugs, and all the lawyers and judicial procedures we had to smooth over.

KIRISHIMA:                      Just a few bumps on the road. Tokoyami-san, how long have you known me? You know as well as I do that I’ll always bounce back and you can always depend on me in the end. I’m unbreakable!

Tokoyami goes silent for a while, considering Kirishima over his clasped hands.

TOKOYAMI:                      You are right, I suppose. The invincible, unbreakable Kirishima. Infallible no matter what comes.

KIRISHIMA:                      You know it.

TOKOYAMI:                      Well, then. I hope you continue to provide your support and services to our cause. Let’s start over, and continue to help each other in the future.

KIRISHIMA:                      (Visibly relieved) Great! That’s what I want to hear.

TOKOYAMI:                      How about a toast now? In token of our reconciliation and future cooperation.

Everyone behind the table lifts their glass high into the air.

ALL:                                 CHEERS!

Immediately, Sero jumps up from within the cake, brandishing his elbows towards Kirishima and his bodyguards. Streams of tape zip out from them, engulfing all three yakuzas from neck to feet. Tokoyami jumps up from his seat in anger.

TOKOYAMI:                      What are you doing, Sero? Kill them!

The door bursts open once again, and this time, Iida appears, looking proud. He immediately zooms to Tokoyami’s side and points a gun behind his head.

IIDA:                                I’m afraid that’s not going to happen.

KIRISHIMA:                      Iida?

IIDA:                                Good job, Sero.

TOKOYAMI:                      Sero?

During all the commotion, the audience could see both Izuku and Shoto crawling sneakily out of the table and towards the left of the stage. Just as they are about to successfully escape, Sato spots them.

SATO:                              Boss! There they are!

IIDA:                                Stop right there!

Izuku and Shoto ignore them and speed away from the stage. The lights in the conference room darken and the ones on top of the beachfront lights up. Izuku and Shoto are seen running across it before stopping behind a coconut tree, partially hidden from view. Izuku is keeping one eye on the left side of the stage, while Shoto’s gaze are pulled towards the right, where the girls are back on the makeshift platform again, playing their instruments to Falling by Harry Styles. At the center is Mina, dancing passionately to the melancholy tunes. (https://youtu.be/Mz07DQg3ajk).

IZUKU:                               Okay, desperate times call for desperate measures. I’m gonna call Kacchan to help us.

SHOTO:                             (Still staring distractedly at Mina) Huh? Okay-

When Mina finally finishes, the audience could see her expression clearly. She’s crying, tears dripping silently down her cheeks, her face crumples in sadness. Deeply moved, Shoto steps out from behind the tree and walks over to Mina. Behind him, Izuku is too preoccupied with talking into his phone that he doesn’t realize what’s happening.

SHOTO:                             Mina.

MINA:                               Oh, Shoko!

Swiftly, Shoto grabs Mina’s face and kisses her tenderly (this is actually Shoto’s first kiss in real life. Mina brags about taking his first kiss for years after). The audience on and offstage gasp and squeal. When they break apart, Mina’s eyes are wide with utter shock.

MINA:                               Shoko?? Why?

SHOTO:                             (Pulls off his wig) I’m sorry for lying to you. Please stop crying, Mina. I don’t deserve your tears.

MINA:                               Junior-san??!!

Izuku comes running towards them. In the background, Iida appears, looking extremely harried. He hasn’t spotted them yet.

IZUKU:                              No time to waste, Shoto. We gotta go, NOW!

Izuku grabs Shoto’s arm and drags the boy away towards stage right.

MINA:                               Junior-san!

SHOTO:                             (Shouts as he’s being dragged away) I’m sorry, Mina! I truly love you. I’m sorry-

Izuku and Shoto disappear from the view as they exit the stage. Mina is seen looking devastated. The stage slowly turns dark.

SCENE 3

When the lights turn on again, the beach is deserted except for Katsuki. He’s waiting at the jetty, his motorboat bobbing next to it on the water. He taps his foot and checks his watch impatiently. A sound from a distance perks him up. He looks around and grins when he sees Izuku running towards him, still dragging Shouto by his arm.

KATSUKI:                           (Growls at a  distracted Shoto) Who’s the guy?

IZUKU:                              Kacchan, meet Shoto. Shoto – Kacchan. Now, let’s go!

Izuku drags them both into the motorboat where he and Katsuki settle at the front. Shoto takes the seat at the back, still with a forlorn look on his face. Katsuki takes the wheel, just as a loud engine sound comes out from the speakers.

Suddenly, a loud yell rings from the far end of the stage. Mina appears, her eyes wide. Then she starts running towards the jetty.

MINA:                               Wait for me!

KATSUKI:                           Nope. Not gonna.

MINA:                               (Hollers angrily) Don’t you dare move a single muscle, young man!

KATSUKI:                           (To Izuku) Holy hell. Your friend’s feral. Hope she’s not invited to our wedding.

Behind them, Shoto stands up dramatically.

SHOTO:                             Mina! What are you doing here?

Mina finally reaches the end of the jetty and jumps into the seat next to Shoto.

MINA:                               You’re not getting rid of me that easily. I told you I’m already tired of running away.

IZUKU:                              (Quietly) What do you think we’re doing here?

KATSUKI:                           Are we done here? Or are we still shooting a soap opera?

IZUKU:                              We’re done. GO!

The boat roars to life with another loud engine sound. The lights overhead pinpoints to only the boat and its occupants.

SHOTO:                             You don’t want me, Mina. I’m a liar – a fraud! I’m penniless, and a saxophone player. All the red flags you’ve been trying to avoid!

MINA:                               I’m perfectly aware of that now.

SHOTO:                             You deserve so much better than me. You deserve a millionaire. Someone with a yacht or two. Who can give you diamond bracelets and caviars, and trips to Paris-

MINA:                               Maybe I was wrong-

SHOTO:                             You don’t know that-

MINA:                               But I do. You have to remember – I once belonged in the elite community. My family was rich too. But did that bring me happiness? NO! I ran away. I chose this life, with all its hardship. I might’ve been swayed by my past life… but meeting you, and truly knowing you has reminded me on what’s really important.

SHOTO:                             What is it?

MINA:                               Love. I love you! And that’s what’s important.

SHOTO:                             I love you too.

The two embrace happily and fall onto the floor together. Now, the audience’s attention is left on only Izuku and Katsuki who had stayed silent throughout the whole thing.

KATSUKI:                           Well, that was dramatic.

IZUKU:                              Kacchan! I have to tell you something-

KATSUKI:                           Yeah, me too. My Old Hag called. She said you can borrow her wedding dress.

IZUKU:                              Kacchan, I can’t get married in your mom’s dress.

KATSUKI:                           Yeah, you’re right. Her style’s too lame to suit you.

IZUKU:                              No! It’s not that –it’s just (takes a deep breath)  I just can’t marry you at all.

KATSUKI:                           Why the hell not?

IZUKU:                              Well, for starters, I have so many scars on my body.

KATSUKI:                           That’s hot.

IZUKU:                              I’m a huge All Might otaku.

KATSUKI:                           Welcome to my world.

IZUKU:                              I have a horrible past. I’ve been living with a playboy saxophone player for three years now.

KATSUKI:                           I forgive you.

IZUKU:                              (getting desperate) I can’t have children.

KATSUKI:                           We’ll adopt.

IZUKU:                              Kacchan! You don’t understand!

Izuku rips off his wig and turns swiftly towards Katsuki.

IZUKU:                              (Deep voice) I’m a MAN!

Katsuki glances at Izuku, then  turns his attention back to the sea.

KATSUKI:                           (smirks) Well, nobody’s perfect.

As the lights overhead fade, the song Baby, I Love Your Way by Big Mountain blasts on the speakers, and the audience is given a last glimpse on Izuku’s shocked and exasperated look, as well as Katsuki’s still very satisfied and cocky grin.

Then the curtains are lowered.

Narrator (Tokoyami):         And so ends our boys’ journey for now. Thank you very much for sticking with us through this journey of adventure and romance. On behalf of Class 3-A, we wish you all enjoyment and happiness for the rest of your day. Thank you again and farewell!

END OF ACT 4                   

Chapter Text

“Kacchan! Kacchan! Kacchan!” The green-haired boy bursts into the tiny dressing room in a hurry, only skidding to a stop in order to avoid bumping into a large cardboard cake with melting icing and cream dripping off its side.

All three boys grouped together on the lumpy couch look up simultaneously. “Yell a little louder, why don’t you.” Katsuki grumbles, before taking a large gulp from his can of Sprite.

“Midoriya!” Kirishima cheers, “Didn’t get to tell you this earlier, but amazing performance out there, my man!”

Sero cocks his head to the side, “Aww, you took off your dress already. If I were you, I’d wear it all day.”

Midoriya blushes, “Um no. I wouldn’t wanna do that. Wearing it offstage feels kinda embarrassing.”

Kirishima’s eyes widen, “But you look so good in it!”

Katsuki snorts loudly. “Spare me the pain. I’ve had to endure weeks of seeing the nerd’s scrawny ass in a dress. It’s a miracle that I haven’t scratched my eyeballs out already.”

Kirishima frowns, “Weeks? Midoriya only started rehearsing in a dress since a couple of days ago though.”

Sero smirks slyly, “I see. So, you’ve been seeing his ass in a dress in private, eh?”

As Katsuki attempts to throw an explosion Sero’s way, Izuku crosses the threshold, and grabs his childhood friend’s wrist, effectively preventing any possible fire alarm activation. “Kacchan, no time to lose. We’ve gotta go somewhere.”

A few years ago, Katsuki would’ve simply responded with a well-aimed explosion back at the boy, but time has changed things. Many things.

So instead, he merely growls and flips his friends off aggressively as they hoot and wolf-whistle teasingly. The childhood friends have been pretty much treated this way by their whole class ever since the casting decision was made in class a month ago. And now that their show was finally out to the public, both boys are aware that they’ll inevitably have to endure more teasing.

Well, at least it’s better than the public thinking them as dangerous or feral. They had too much experience with that.

“Stop dragging me, asshole.” Katsuki barks when Izuku refuses to let go of his arm, even as they exit the dressing room.

“Can’t, Kacchan. I’ve promised I’ll bring you with me.”

“Wait, where?”

They’ve passed their classmates, many who are still in the middle of cleaning up the stage. Some more catcalls and whoops are thrown their way.

Izuku looks back behind his shoulder to throw Katsuki an amused glance, “The correct question should be ‘who’, Kacchan.”

“Huh, what’re you…OH NO-”

They’ve almost reached the hall’s entrance now, and next to the doorway, the boys could see some familiar figures standing by the side.

“FUCK NO. LET ME GO, NERD!”

“Stop being so dramatic, you ungrateful little shit!” Too late, Mitsuki has stormed over to them and proceeds with smacking Katsuki’s head with a food catalogue from a nearby stall.

“Izuku!” Inko envelops her son in a warm hug. Masaru comes over and lightly ruffles both boys’ hair.

“You two were incredible up there! I never knew how talented you were in acting.”

“AHHHH! Lemme go! You’re smothering me, Old Hag!”

“I’m only letting you go, because I’m really happy and proud of you right now.” Mitsuki says as she steps back.

“You’ve got a weird reason to be proud for. Wait until I become the number one hero, then you can be proud, you Old Hag!”

“Stop calling me that!”

Masaru sighs but he still can’t help the soft smile escaping his lips. From the corner of his eyes, he spots Izuku looking at Katsuki with a fond look in his expression.

Hmm, perhaps the women aren’t too far off the marks after all, Masaru muses quietly.

Inko is still gripping Izuku in a tight hug, although the boy looks completely unfazed by that. He must’ve been too used by it already.

“What are the two of you going to do, now that you’re finished with your class performance?”

Izuku smiles down at his mother, “We need to clean up first. Then, we’re free until the after-party later during dinnertime. Ah! I could accompany all of you around if you want!”

Katsuki scowls at him, “Count me out of that.”

Mitsuki smacks him again, but Inko shakes her head looking aghast. “No! No! We wouldn’t want to intrude in your time.”

“Of course you’re not, Mom -”

“This is your last school festival. You should spend it making memories with your special someone!”

Both Izuku and Katsuki stare at her. “Uh, mom. I don’t –”

Mitsuki rolls her eyes, “Oh for god’s sake. You two should walk together! What kind of parents would we be if we barge into your school festival date like that?”

Izuku immediately splutters, “Da-da-date?”

Katsuki bristles in anger, although the red on his cheeks are unmistakable under the bright sunlight from the doorway, “What the fuck, Mom?”

“Oh also,” Mitsuki stands up a little straighter and pats Izuku’s shoulder offhandedly, “Izuku, I’ve already had a design of your wedding tuxedo ready, but if you prefer a dress after today, I’d be happy to make one that matches Katsuki’s.”

Ignoring Izuku’s utterly stupefied look, she turns towards her husband, “What do you think, dear? I’ve always thought some green highlights would look good on Izuku, but earlier onstage, he looked so pretty in a golden dress.”

Masaru decides to indulge his wife in this. He also can’t help but be amused by the increasingly red faces of the embarrassed boys. “Maybe not too light, dear. Perhaps we could check on some of that new fabric we got last week?”

Inko squeals happily, her eyes looking teary again. “Oh, this is so exciting! My boys are all grown up!”

Katsuki really did let out an explosion at this.

Thirty minutes later, as the boys watch their parents disappear among the crowd, both still red and numb with shock, an awkward atmosphere starts to descend upon them. How does one recover from this?

Despite himself, Katsuki does what he does best – he throws a glare at Izuku and grasps the front of his ugly ‘T-shirt’ shirt, “This is your fault. Why the fuck did you have to bring them here, huh?”

“What? That’s the point of the play, Kacchan. To be watche-”

“Excuse me…” Izuku and Katsuki froze and swivel their heads around in unison. Katsuki’s hand is still holding Izuku’s shirt.

Two girls stood in front of them – excited, hopeful looks on their faces. Behind her were other random people, mostly girls – all gazing at them the way they would with delicious food on store displays.

“You’re Bakugou Katsuki and Midoriya Izuku, aren’t you?” She asks breathlessly, “Can we – do you mind if we take a picture with you?”

One picture turns into several – with multiple other people.

Later that night, during the after-party, the class guffaws and howls in amusement when they take turns showing each other today’s trending posts within the UA community, featuring the ‘hottest couple in all of UA’.

In one corner, sits a seething Bakugou Katsuki and a blushing Midoriya Izuku. No one comments on the fact that the two are still sitting next to each other despite it all.