Archive of Our Own ^beta

Katsuki really should reconsider his crush on Eijiro. He likes him way too damn much, considering he's letting him drag him out of the comfort of his dorm and to the common room. But he'd probably do anything for that bright beam of a smile.

Still, “Shitty Hair, I'm not playing truth or dare.” He frowned, looking at the circle in the middle of the room. 

“Aw, but it would be fun, man!” And, of course, Eijiro pouted. Eijiro pouted and his heart flipped and fucking hell when did he become so goddamn soft for his best friend? 

Katsuki sighed, “Ei. Come on.” 

“Please, Kats? I promise it’ll be fun. And, if you don’t have fun? We can go get food or something! My treat.” 

He could feel his teeth clenching and fuck. Goddammit. Why the hell does he have to pout and give him those puppy dog eyes and look so pretty?

“I’m only playing one round.” 

“Deal! And then we can go get your favorite, okay?” 

“Fine.” 

Eijiro smiled, and he had to wonder what the hell he was waiting for. His eyes look expectant, shy. Filled with so many colors, he was a pallet of beauty. Especially with the way the wisps of his hair fell across his face, still a little damp from his after gym shower. He just wanted to bury his nose in that sweet, fresh smell. To hug Eijiro so close he could feel his heart beating with his. To kiss those lips in that soft smile. To hold—

Katsuki’s mind is definitely playing tricks on him. Because there's no way in hell Eijiro is actually holding out his hand to him. He looked up at him, and he was met with that softness again, blanketing his stupid sappy hopes.

Timidly, slowly, he grabbed Eijiro’s hand, intertwining their fingers together. He felt sparks up his spine, whispering all the way up to his neck. Like Eijiro’s hands were directly on his skin, tickles and flutters of fingertips. 

“Okay. One round. And then food?” Eijiro asked. 

Katsuki was too entranced by the way their fingers fit together, how he was able to hold something so precious in his hand. And how the hell they even got here. Holding hands in the hallway of the common room. Eijiro’s hand was so warm and strong. He could only imagine what a hug felt like right now. 

Fuck. He’s such a goddamn sap. 

“Katsuki?” 

“Yeah, whatever.” 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

It wasn’t one fucking round. He somehow ended up getting stuck there for several, the night getting too late for food. But, he found himself not being able to move, to tell Eijiro to wrap it the hell up. 

He had told Eijiro he was tired, and the opportunity had presented itself when he asked, “Wanna go back to your dorm? It's been like a couple rounds already. I can go hang out in ten minutes or something.” 

He really should have left a long time ago. Right after one round even without Eijiro. All he felt through the night was this stupid knot in his throat that he couldn't swallow. 

But, for some reason, the thought of being away from Eijiro and his happy smile had blown over any thought of crawling into bed. Especially because these truths were getting more moronically revealing by the second as the group now only consisted of the idiot brigade. He found out Denki had a crush on Shinso. Mina had a crush on way too many people to keep track of, and Sero had his eyes on fucking IcyHot of all people. 

They hadn’t asked him shit yet, and he was glad the idiots at least had the brains not to ask him anything in front of the whole class. Especially considering this was functioning more as a gossip session. He had just stayed close to Eijiro, rolling his eyes as everyone started talking about love and crushes and the people they wanted to kiss. He doesn't know how people could just…do that. He didn't know how they could just sit in a room and say these things when the thought to him alone made him want to crawl out of his skin. 

He really could just leave. He's done beyond his one round promise. 

But it wasn’t helping that Eijiro had pulled him to his side after everyone else had left, the group of them now in a tight circle on the floor, his arm over his shoulders and their legs almost on top of each other. He found himself resting his head on Eijiro’s chest without shame. He was so warm. The way he would occasionally run his fingers up and down his arm, the way he could feel his laughs tickle his neck. And when he would really laugh, he could feel the rumble of it on his back. And his voice was so close he was sure it was music. Shit, he was such a goner. 

“Okay, Bakugo! Truth or dare?” Pinky asked, way too enthusiastic for his taste. 

“Fuck off.” So much for not being asked shit. 

“Aw, come on, Kats.” Eijiro got closer to him, his lips by his ear and his breath on his neck. He wanted to hide himself, turn around and pretend he wasn’t here at all to answer these stupid questions. 

“Dare.” He growled out. 

“Okay! I dare you to tell if you’ve ever had a first kiss before.” Mina grinned. 

“That's not how the game works, Meens.” 

Katsuki rolled his eyes, “Obviously I've never had a first kiss before.” 

“What? Why not?” Mina squealed, as if he had just said he’s never tried breathing before. 

“My turn is over, Pinky. You next. I dare you to shut up.”

“You didn’t even let me choose!” 

“Fine. Truth or dare?” 

“Truth!” 

“Is it true you never shut up?” 

Sparky and Sero started laughing, much to Mina’s frowning face. 

Mina stuck her tongue out at him, her eyes flashing to Eijiro, “Kiri. Truth or dare?” 

“Truth.” Eijiro answered. 

Katsuki felt his heart jump to his throat. If Mina asked him the same things she had for the others, he was sure he wouldn’t want to hear the answer. He didn’t want to hear if Eijiro had kissed anyone recently or if he had a crush on anyone. He didn’t think he could handle it. 

“Is it true that Bakugo is your only best friend in this room?” 

“Aw, come on, Mina. Don’t do that to poor Kiri! He’s like a puppy who loves everyone!” Denki said. 

“You can have more than one best friend, Min.” Sero laughed. 

“So, do you, Kiri?” Mina said, her arms crossed. He wasn’t sure if this question was meant to tease him or Eijiro. Which was unfair on both ends.

“Fuck off, Pinky. If he doesn't want to answer the question, he doesn’t have to.” 

“You both make this game no fun!” She pouted. 

“And you make this game unfair!” He said back. 

“All of you are my best friends. But—”

“Ah ha!” Denki shouted. 

“Let him finish, Sparky.” He groaned. 

“All of you are my best friends. But…” Eijiro nudged him, “Katsuki is my ultimate best friend, ya know?” 

“Ultimate best friend, eh?” Denki teased. “Is that even a thing?” 

“It's a thing ‘cause I said so.” Eijiro argued. 

He couldn’t help but smirk at the bunch, settling further back onto Eijiro. Eijiro let his arm on his shoulder fall to his waist, pulling him that much closer. 

“Kats. Truth or dare?” Eijiro asked, whispering in his ear for only him to hear. 

“Truth.” He decided.

“Is it true I’m your best friend, too?” 

He smirked, “Sure, moron.” 

He could feel Eijiro smiling, “Good.” 

“Yeah, whatever.” 

“Dinner now?” Eijiro asked, his nose brushing the back of his ear.

“It’s too late.” 

“Aw, what? Really? I’m sorry, man. I guess the game went on long.” 

Katsuki laughed, “It's fine. Let's go make something instead.” 

He reluctantly got up, Eijiro frowning as he looked back at him. He offered his hand and Eijiro took it with a smile. 

“Hey! The game’s not over yet! Where are you two going?” Denki whined. 

“Away.”

“We're gonna make some food!” 

The three looked heartbroken as they got up, and he swore there were tears in Sparky’s eyes.

“Hurry up and get up before I change my mind, dumbasses.”

Everyone shot up with wide smiles as he turned to walk to the kitchen, Eijiro right by his side. And as he turned to look at that upturned cheek, god did he want to kiss that pretty grin.  

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

“Fuckin’!—Get away, Shitty Hair!” He shouted, swatting Eijiro’s hand away with the wooden spoon he was using. 

“I just want to taste it!” Eijiro argued, pouting as he got close to the pan again. 

“Ei. Cut it the hell out! Stop sticking your fingers in shit. Did you even wash your hands?” 

“I did!” 

Katsuki sighed as Eijiro gave him that goddamn pout again, a “please” so clear in his eyes. His pretty, dangerously precious eyes. He turned to glare at him, holding his gaze so intensely that he felt rage bubble in his chest from how Eijiro’s expression was breaking to amusement. 

“What the hell is so funny?” He demanded. 

“You’re not that intimidating, you know?” 

“Fuck off!” 

His shouts were apparently more fuel for Eijiro’s laughter, and he hated his stupid heart for fluttering. 

“Here, asshole.” Katsuki grunted, sighing as he reached for a smaller spoon to offer to Eijiro.

He scooped up the rice he was cooking, waiting for Eijiro to take the hint.

“Oh!”

He immediately put the spoon in his mouth, his eyes lighting up as he licked his lips. 

“Tastes awesome, man!”

Katsuki just scoffed, “Happy now?”

“Mmm hmm!” Eijiro grinned as he took the spoon from his hand, walking to the sink to clean it off.

When he came back, Eijiro asked, “Where's Denki and them?”

He smirked, and said, “Sent them to the store for drinks and crap.”

“Aw! Why didn't you tell me? I would've gotten stuff for everyone.”

“It's fine, they just went to the convenience store around the corner.”

Eijiro hummed, “Ah that's okay then, I'd rather be here with you anyway.”

“With your ultimate best friend?”

“Shut up. I was just trying not to make Denki feel bad.”

“Why would he feel bad, idiot? He is your best friend.”

“Yeah but,” Eijiro tossed him a sheepish smile, “Everyone can just tell you're my favorite.”

Katsuki’s cheeks heated up at that, and luckily the rice started sizzling then. He turned down the heat, tapping the spoon on the pan before setting it down.

He felt arms snake around his waist, Eijiro resting his chin on his shoulder, and he tensed up.

“What the fuck are you doing?

Eijiro hummed, giving him a squeeze.

“I missed you.”

“Huh? I'm right here.” Katsuki tried to get out of his embrace, feeling his stomach flutter to his throat. 

“I know!  But you've been so focused on cooking I didn't want to bother you.”

“Bull-fucking-shit. You've been bothering me this whole time.”

“But not like this!” Eijiro argued, squeezing him just that much. 

“I'm not done.” He muttered.

“Oh! Sorry. I thought cause—”

“It's—as long as you don't stick your dirty hands in the food it's whatever.”

Eijiro laughed and there it was in his neck again, tickling and warm. 

“Whatever.” He said again, hoping it would stop him from telling his dumb, touchy best friend how much he wanted to turn to kiss his cheek so close to his mouth. How much he wanted to just slam the stupid spoon down, turn around himself, kiss him, wrap his legs around his waist and kiss him. God. Fuck. Fuck the stupid concept of being just best friends. Why? Why the hell can’t he kiss him? Why doesn’t he just fucking kiss him? 

But he doesn’t. Instead, he takes another spoonful of rice and offers it to Eijiro again. 

“So good.” Eijiro beamed, as if he hadn’t just tried it before. 

He chuckled as he put the spoon to the side and grabbed a clean one. 

“Yeah?” He asked. 

“Everything you cook is awesome, man.” 

And there that was. Man. Bro. And idiotic ultimate best friend. Never more. Hopefully never less. 

“Hey, Katsuki?” Eijiro asked after he stirred for a couple seconds. 

“What?” He sighed.

“You alright?”

Eijiro put his chin on his shoulder.

“What? Why the hell wouldn't I be?”

“You seemed kind of uncomfortable all night. Was it ‘cause Mina asked you about kissing?”

He felt himself tense up, “She was asking everyone that shit.”

“Yeah, I know. But even before that, too.”

Katsuki just rolled his eyes, finally turning off the burner. 

Eijiro clicked his teeth, “I think the guys know not to ask you about crushes and stuff. They know that—”

“Ei. I know. They're fine.”

“I know. But, I'm sorry. I didn't think the game was gonna go like that.”

Katsuki tried his best to shrug with Eijiro still on his shoulder, “What do you expect from a group of morons? And don't be sorry. Not your fault.”

“Yeah but—”

“It's not your fault.” He reiterated. 

Eijiro sighed, the air warm near his skin, “Okay.” He ran his hands over his stomach, the touch so simple, “You do know you're my best best friend, right?”

“You already said that like ten times now.” 

“I know. But, you can always tell me when stuff is bothering you, okay?”

“I know, Ei.” 

Eijiro let out a small hum, hugging him tighter as he rubbed his nose on his cheek.

“I could hug you like this forever.”

“You fucking weirdo, who says shit like that?”

“Me. When I like hugging my best friend.”

“Do you even hear the shit that comes out of your mouth?” He snorts.

“Come on, you know you want to hug me back.” Eijiro teases. 

Katsuki is about to turn. And maybe he will. Maybe he will hug him and maybe he just—-

“Hey! Kiri, we got the...” Denki said, fading off. “We interrupting something?” 

“Nah, just felt like giving Kats a hug.” Eijiro gave him a final squeeze, acting like everything was normal. Like Katsuki wasn't just about to say fuck it all and ruin their friendship.

Instead, he sighed as he started to serve them all plates, Mina now nowhere to be found and just Denki and Sero hanging around.  

“Mina?” Eijiro asked, glancing at the door.  

Denki shrugged, “Left before we went to the store. Something about being sleepy.”

“Oh.” Eijiro hummed.

“She's going up to video chat with some girl from another class.” Sero said with a roll of his eyes.

“Aw, ditched for a crush. Really? I'd never ditch you guys for Shinso.”

Sero laughed, “Sure you wouldn't. And if Shinso would say, ‘Come and kiss me right now, Denki. I love you more than cats. ’ right now you wouldn't go running?”

“First off, that would never happen. And second off, you guys love me enough to not be mad at me for doing that.”

Eijiro laughed, “You’re cute, Denks.”

“Aw, you're cute too, man.”

Katsuki felt a pang of jealousy hit him before he remembered Eijiro and the idiot were just like that. Sero noticed his grimace, however, as he gave him a small, smug smile. 

“What about you, Kiri? Would you ditch your pals for a crush?”

What the hell was this? Another stupid game of truth or dare?

“Well, I'm not gonna lie. I would ditch you guys for a crush. But,” Eijiro smirked at him, his stupidly cute eyes filling with something he couldn't place. “It would be kind of impossible to ditch Katsuki.”

Denki let out a dramatic gasp, “Kiri! How dare you? Gah. You know what? Sero. Do you want to be my ultimate best friend?”

Sero snorted, “Sorry man, I think that title belongs to Sho.”

Sparky’s jaw dropped, laughter clear in his expression, “What! So, I'm just stuck having lame regular best friends?”

“I'm pretty sure you can ask Shinso if he'd like to be yours.”

He glared at them both, annoyed that they were teasing Eijiro. 

“Fuck off. Obviously, this is why Ei would ditch your asses and not mine.”

“Oh yeah, that's the reason.” Denki joked. And what the hell was that supposed to mean?

With a roll of his eyes, he took a bite of his rice, nudging Eijiro to do the same. 

“Your food is getting cold.”

Eijiro looked away from the other two with an expression he could only describe as fond. And what he wouldn't give to see how Eijiro looks at him from the outside. How he looks after he somehow managed to make him laugh. In those moments where he knew Eijiro was glancing at him, but he couldn't bring himself to look back—knowing he wouldn’t be able to control himself. Not around those eyes. Not around those lips. Not around that smile. Those three words on the tip of his own.

“Thank you for dinner, Kats.” Eijiro said, nudging him back. 

Sero’s and Denki’s thanks followed suit. Katsuki allowed himself to smile just a little.

His heart fluttered as Eijiro noticed him staring, the sweetest smile gracing his lips. 

“Hey. Wanna stay over at mine tonight?” 

Katsuki shrugged, “Sure,” He glanced down at Eijiro’s plate, already empty. “You finished? Want some more?” 

“Hmm. Kinda. Just a little bit, though.” 

Without even thinking, he shoved his plate towards Eijiro. 

“Oh no, man. It's okay!” 

“I’m already full.” 

“You sure?” 

Katsuki nodded, “I’ll start cleaning up.” 

Eijiro’s eyes widened, “Hey, no. Don’t go. I’ll help you clean.” 

He had to snort then, “I’m just going to the sink, Ei.” 

“Ha, I know. But—I don’t know. I just miss you today.” 

He honestly didn’t feel up for cleaning. But it was a couple minutes of being extra tired compared to being chewed out by stupid Class Pres and Aizawa. But before he could get up and start—

“Hey, guys? Do you think you can help me clean up the dishes and stuff since Katsuki cooked?” 

“Yeah! Are you done eating already, Kiri?” 

Eijiro nodded, gathering both of their plates and stacking them. 

“Don’t worry about cleaning up, guys. We’ll take care of it, right Denks?” 

Denki gave them both a small grin, “Yeah, you two go ahead.”

He got up with another shrug, walking with Eijiro as he said goodbye. With a sly grin he gave Sero’s upturned cheek a hard squeeze, Denki’s hair a harsh pull. 

“Hey! You jerk! Goodnight to you, too! You’re welcome for cleaning up!” Denki whined, rubbing his head in a dramatic show. 

“Yeah, yeah. Night morons.” 

“Night, Blasty! Night, Kiri! Love ya!” Denki shouted after them as they walked out of the door. 

“Bye, guys! Love you too!” Eijiro shouted right back. As if it wasn't almost midnight and saying ‘love you’ was such a casual thing. He wishes he could be casual about it. Just shout his love for Eijiro like it wasn’t the only thing that kept his heart beating. 

“Man, I’m so tired. Since when was it almost midnight?” 

“Since 30 minutes ago.”

“Aw, is it past your bedtime you old grump?” 

He walked ahead of him, not wanting to deny it. Because it was. He was going to be fucking exhausted tomorrow. 

“Well, my bed’s plenty comfy. You still up to staying?” 

Eijiro was caught up to him now, and he felt his fingers brush on his back. 

“Yeah, if you want me to.” 

“I do!” Eijiro grinned, pushing the button to the elevator. 

They were all yawns as they made their way to their floor, Eijiro absentmindedly intertwining their pinkies. 

He let out a loud yawn as the elevator dinged and he followed Eijiro in a sleepy haze. He’ll remember to get mad at him for not locking his door tomorrow. 

They took no time to lay down, considering they were already in their pajamas. 

The silence between them was comfortable. Sleepy. Something like home. A warmth he could never get used to. No matter how many nights were spent close to Eijiro’s embrace. Even when they were a wall apart. Hell, even cities, states, he could feel his warmth. His radiance. He wanted to bask in it, to close his eyes and melt himself into Eijiro’s pretty heart. Just so they could always have a piece of each other. Even if Eijiro didn’t want him in the same way. Even if this was just some platonic bro shit to him. He’ll take it. He’ll take anything if it means being like this with Eijiro. Sharing a scratchy, worn blanket that smelled everything like him.

And he can’t help but wonder if he ever smells like Eijiro when he wakes up. If people see them coming together and wonder if they’re each other’s. He'd give anything to be Eijiro’s. He'd give anything to show his love fully. To tell Eijiro just how much he'd reshape the world for him. 

“Hey, Tsuki. Sure you're okay, still?” Eijiro asked, his arm coming to wrap around his waist lightly. He decided to be selfish, to indulge himself. They were alone after all, and Eijiro always told him he could tell him anything. And with the roll into his arms, the press of his back against his chest, he said it. With just this embrace alone he hoped he was saying everything. 

“Stop asking me that.” He mumbled. He wasn't some goddamn baby who couldn't handle stupid talk about crushes.

“Sorry.”

“And don't say sorry, either.”

Eijiro laughed, “How are you even more grumpy when you're sleepy?” He rubbed his hands lightly over his stomach again, his chin coming to rest on his shoulder. God. He loves him so much. He fucking adores him. Absolutely adores him. 

But, fuck. He wasn’t upset. He just loves Eijiro so much. And he fucking hates himself for being too much of a stupid coward to show it. Imagine that? Him. A coward. He shouldn't be afraid of anything.

But…

“Good night, Katsuki.” Eijiro yawned, his leg hitching over his own. 

“Night, Ei.”

“Love ya, man.”

Right. Casual. Man. Fucking friends. 

He was just like Denki. No use ruining everything for the sake of his selfish feelings. 

“Whatever.” He whispered. I am so in love with you. He thought. 

Katsuki definitely woke up on the wrong side of the bed today. Considering he was rudely jolted awake at 6:30 in the morning by a loud knock on Eijiro’s door. 

Eijiro groaned, holding on to him tighter. “What? It's so early.” 

“Ignore it. It's probably the arm idiot by accident.”

He refused to open his eyes. He had felt like he had just fallen asleep and now this bullshit? 

He heard the click of Eijiro’s phone, “It's Denki.”

“What? Why?”

“He says he needs help.”

“Literally fuck that. It's 6 in the morning.”  

“Kiri? You awake?”

Eijiro sighed, ever the self-sacrificing bastard.

Eijiro got up, walking towards the door, and when the hell did he take his shirt off? God damn. Why? Why the hell is his best friend so mouthwatering? He just wants to put his hands all over him. To cherish that feeling of skin on beautiful skin. His hands running up and down his back as he kisses and kisses and kisses him. 

“You what?” He heard Eijiro rasp. He always sounded so adorably confused in the mornings.

“I told Hitoshi I like him.” Denki said from the doorway.

“What? When?” 

“Last night! I just walked to his dorm after we cleaned and I told him and he…” Denki sniffed, and Katsuki sure as hell didn't feel his heart jolt. If that stupid Eye Bag bastard had—

“He said he likes me back! Can you believe it?!” Denki shouted, making Katsuki wince. 

“I can! That's awesome, Denks. I'm excited for you. You've been crushing on Shinso for a while.”

Eijiro reached over to ruffle his hair, and Denki beamed.

“We're going on a lunch date! And shit, Kiri. I can't wait to kiss him. I'm so gonna kiss him.”

“At lunch?” Eijiro chuckled.

“Why not? I mean—not full on! But like on the cheek! But do you think he'd want that? I just confessed and I was too chicken to do it last night and—”

With a smile, Eijiro shook his head, “Shinso’s really lucky to have you man. He'll be really happy.” 

“Can you two shut the fuck up? What are you doing up so early?”

Denki's head popped into the room, “Oh hey! Aren't you two cozy?” He teased.

Not anymore. Asshole.

“Fuck off. I couldn't sleep last night and now here the hell you are.” 

“Wow. Even more grumpy in the morning. I forgot!  We haven't had a sleepover since like second year.”

“I wonder why you giggly asshole.”

“Damn, Blasty! Who spit in your cereal today? But I get it. I get it. Interrupted ultimate best friend time. My bad.” Denki held his hands up in surrender, and Eijiro laughed. A full body laugh that confirmed all his feelings.

“Go away, Denks.” He joked. 

“You too?!” Denki straight up pouted. “Alright. Sheesh. A guy knows when he's not wanted.” Denki faked his pout for one more second before breaking out into a grin. 

“Well, since you're up early, want to walk with us to get breakfast when you're ready?”

“Sure! I won't be able to fall back asleep anyways. I haven't really slept all night.” Denki chuckled.

“Go away .” Katsuki groaned.

“Okay! Gah!” Denki snorted, closing the door as he finally left.

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

After getting ready and getting breakfast, the three of them were finally off to school. He doesn't know how Eijiro and Denki have bounds of energy while simultaneously complaining that they were “so tired”. They had walked out of the cafeteria arm in arm for fucks sake, all excitement and smiles for the boring school day. 

Katsuki doesn't hate school. He doesn't hate training. But how is anyone that excited first thing in the morning? It was like they were bouncing off each other.

They were getting closer to the school now, and he was honestly waiting for Denki and Eijiro to let go of each other. When he lets himself just be present with Eijiro, not worrying about their hands intertwining lightly as they walk to school , they'd usually let go at this point. And it wasn't ‘cause—he just…he doesn't fucking know. But every time he'd see the entrance to the school, his throat would close up and he'd get all stupid and sweaty and he just couldn't. He was lucky he had Eijiro to understand that.

Still. When he saw people starting to walk around them, he wanted to get closer to the two and rip their arms from around each other. Denki and Eijiro were just lost in conversation, Denki gushing about Shinso and Eijiro smiling along. And there was nothing wrong with what they were doing. They were just walking together. 

Was he just being the presumptuous asshole? He was going to a hero school after all. And if there was any place no one should give them shit for who they were, it would be here. 

Denki was always so proud. He didn't hide his crushes, he didn't hide his dates with guys or girls. It was normal for him. It should be normal. He thought nothing of it. 

Eijiro never hid who he was. Mina had already known since middle school, and when their group got closer, he had come out to the three of them. He was never quiet about his old middle school crushes, how he realized he didn't like girls. His first and second kiss with a guy he used to hang out with in middle school. He never seemed ashamed. He never seemed scared. He said he had gone through all that in middle school and he wasn't gonna bring that to U.A. Which was admirable as hell. 

Katsuki, on the other hand?

Hell. He didn't even know he could have feelings until Eijiro came into his life and never seemed to want to leave it. He hadn't realized that he could be in love with a guy until Eijiro. 

And he had to thank him for that one night when everything had hit him all at once. He doesn’t think he could’ve felt so much around a kinder heart. 

Eijiro, of course, had been out for the night. He had gone on a date with some guy from another class. It was the first time he had done that. He had talked about crushes before. How he thought a guy he saw in the cafeteria was so cute and how cool it would be to talk to him. 

Katsuki, at first, didn't care. Why would he care? His best friend could have all the stupid crushes he wanted. He didn't know why he needed his approval or his opinion. He could kiss all the stupid bastards in the world for all he fucking cared. But. That time? After the tenth crush he whined on and on about? He broke. 

He felt something rumble in his throat as he shouted, “Kirishima, I really don't give a crap. Go fucking date that extra or whatever but stop fucking talking about it with me. Hell.”

Eijiro’s expression had fallen, and fuck did that make him feel like crap.  But he was fed up! So damn fed up with Eijiro talking about all these cute guys and all these confessions he denied and why the hell was he denying confessions if he had crushes on the whole damn world? 

“You—you don't?”

He hesitated a little, “I just don't like talking about crushes and shit.” He really wanted to say that he didn't like talking about his crushes. Because all that left him feeling was crap. Empty. Like the clouds had taken everything out of him and drained him dry.  

“Oh.” Eijiro had frowned, “I'm sorry.”

“It's whatever.”

Eijiro let out a small whisper, “Is it because I'm talking about…”

Katsuki had scoffed at that, “If you think that, then you need to stop spewing bullshit about being my best friend.”

His face had bloomed with a little relief. 

“Sorry. It's just that—my old middle school friends would…”

“They're your ex friends for a reason, ‘Shima.”

Eijiro laughed halfheartedly, “You're right. But I'll stop okay?”

“Okay.” He muttered.

Stopping talk about crushes was obviously a mistake because Eijiro started talking to Denki instead and of course the idiot had told him to just take the plunge and ask him out. 

He had felt a lump in his throat all day and when he heard Eijiro’s door close and he had scrolled through the excited string of texts from their stupid group chat for the tenth time, the tears finally left. The rain had finally fallen and poured over his heart. 

He couldn't stop. He couldn't. Not when the clouds parted, and he realized. He fucking realized . He liked him. He liked him so goddamn much. No wonder he couldn't stand it. No wonder he felt so much anger bubble in his chest. 

It seemed like he had waited all night for Eijiro to come home. He didn't want to bother him because he knew the idiot would ditch whoever it was to come ask what's wrong. But he did text him as soon as he heard footsteps by his door.

And of course, there was a knock on his door before Eijiro invited himself in. 

“Hey, what's up? You wanted me to…” Eijiro’s eyebrows furrowed in concern as he came closer, sitting on his bed where he had been clinging to his pillow. 

“Have you been crying?” He had asked, swiping his thumb under his eye. “Your face is all wet, Bakugo.”

“‘Shima, I—” He had croaked out, the words stuck.

“Hey, what's up?” 

“I'm not fucking…normal.”

“What do you mean?” Eijiro had taken the pillow from him, pulling him into an embrace instead. It was the first time he had let him.

“When you were talking about crushes and shit? It's that—I…I don't…and—” He somehow managed to get out. 

“ Shhh . Calm down. I'm here. Slow down, okay?”

“I think I like…” He couldn't speak it out, because he'd be lying. He didn't like guys. He didn't like girls. He liked Eijiro. Only Eijiro. 

“Aw, hey! That's okay!”

He almost had shaken his head, almost. He had wanted to say, “ I think I like you. I think I'm in love with you.” 

But it was too fragile. It was too much. He cared about Eijiro too much to ruin the first genuine, good friendship he had.

He just nodded instead and Eijiro gave him the sweetest smile, “That's okay. That doesn't make you not normal. Okay?”

He shook his head then. He knew…it was just. He was different. He was selfish, wanting to keep all these feelings just for Eijiro. Wanting Eijiro to feel all the same for him. How could he be so selfish? 

“Come here.” Eijiro had whispered into his neck, even though he was already holding him.

He couldn't help himself, “How was your…?”

Eijiro scoffed, “I didn't even go on it. I canceled at the last minute.

“What? Why ?” He had been so damn excited.

“I didn't feel right. No one feels right if I'm being honest. But, that doesn't matter. We're talking about you right now, okay?”

“Okay.”

He could never remember how long they had stayed in their embrace, Eijiro whispering reassurances and wrapping him up in so much care.

But as the night grew later and he could tell Eijiro was getting sleepy he asked, “Can you stay over for the night or do you want—”

“I'm all yours, Katsuki.” Eijiro had whispered, hugging him closer. It was the first night he had opened up. The first night of being them . Eijiro never talked about crushes anymore and he never went on any dates. It was like something had shifted and he was glad for it. Glad that he had someone to lean on fully. 

But he still doesn't feel like he deserves to be the way Denki and Eijiro were. Out. Unashamed. How could he be proud of himself when he hides the truth from the one person he loves the most?  

A touch to his shoulder snaps him out of his memory, Eijiro and Denki stopping suddenly in the middle of the sidewalk.

“What?” He complained, rolling his eyes and shrugging off Denki's hand. 

“Tsuki, you okay? You kinda zoned out.”

Katsuki felt his face heat, he'd been so caught up in himself that he didn't even notice his gaze had been stuck to the ground for a solid 5 minutes.

“You still tired? Man, we really shouldn't keep you up past your bedtime.”

“Fuck off. I'm just thinking about the stupid training for the day.”

“Ugh! Yeah. It's gonna be a lot. I'm not looking forward to it at all.” Denki whined.

They finally walked into the school building, going down the long hallway.

Denki had already found Sero, and he could tell by their excited gestures that Sparky had filled him in on the news. 

“Hey,” Eijiro said, following him to his desk, “Let me know, okay?"

“Let you know what?”

Eijiro graced him with one of his heart stopping smiles, “If you're not okay.”

He glared at him, “I'm fine. Stop asking me shit. It's getting annoying.”

Eijiro’s smile faltered just a little, a hint of rain amongst his sunshine.

“See you after class, Tsuki.” With a ruffle of his hair he didn't have the energy to protest, Eijiro walked to his own desk, sitting down and getting into Sero’s and Denki’s conversation. 

If the world was perfect, if he could shake this mood he found himself in, he would've followed Eijiro and kissed him until the bell rang.  

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

A sigh fell out of his mouth as he let his head touch the pillow. It was a long day. More than he needed in the middle of the week. It's not that he minded the training and school. It was just…the people. 

Even Eijiro got a little on his nerves today and he so felt like fucking crap when he gave him those sad puppy dog eyes again after he yelled at him to leave him alone. And, of course, like the good friend he was, Eijiro had been giving him space. 

And, he took it. He let himself eat in his dorm for lunch. He went straight to the gym after school and stayed there for hours. He doesn't know why he's so goddamn irritable today. He just is. Simply. Maybe it was leftover shitty feelings from last night. Maybe it was just shitty feelings in general. 

Either way, now that he's had time to simmer with those emotions, he realizes—he really misses his best friend. He didn't know how much until the day ended and he felt this kind of ache that he couldn't place. Which. That was ridiculous. It's been only a couple hours, and he was annoyed with being hugged and touched today. And Eijiro had kindly left him alone. So why does he just want to barge into his best friend's dorm and bury his face in his neck?

With another sigh he got out his phone, clicking on his most recent call.

“ Hey, man! What's up?” Eijiro said in greeting after a couple rings.

“Hey.”

“I missed you today!”  

“I was at school with you, moron.”

“I know, but you wanted your space today, so I missed being around you, man.” 

Katsuki clicked his teeth, “Sorry I blew up at you.”

Eijiro laughed, “ When aren't you blowing up at me?” 

“I'm serious, Ei.”

“ It's okay, I know I'm too much sometimes.”

“You're not. It's me.” He admitted.

“ You're not too much, Kats!”

“That's not what I mean, dummy.”  He groaned. “But, whatever. You busy? Wanna come over?”

“Yeah! I'll be there in a few. Do you want me to bring my switch or something or a movie?”

“No. I just wanna chill. Unless you want to?”

“ Nah. I just finished playing some games with Denks and Sero. So I'm okay .”

Katsuki listened a little closer then, “Are you still playing games right now?”

“No!” Eijiro said a little too quickly, “I just finished my turn.”

“Eijiro. You don't have to stop whatever you're doing to come over here.”

“It's fine! Denks and Sero have each other. ”

“Ei.”

“Ultimate best friend, remember?”

“Don't ditch people for my sake.”

“Denki and Sero don't mind, right guys?”

Katsuki heard a shuffle and then, “Yes, please Blasty. Take him. He's too gloomy! He's ruining the vibe!” Denki shouted. 

“What the fuck, why is Ei gloomy?” 

“Cause he’s moping around about missing his mega—”

“Ultimate!” Sero piped in. 

“Sorry, ultimate best friend.” 

There was a shuffle again and then a close of a door, “See, Kats? I’m on my way, okay ?” 

“Okay,” He said with a roll of his eyes. 

Suddenly, he was hit with a burst of nervous energy. He got up, moving to turn off his lights and to flip on a lamp instead. He fixed and fluffed his pillows a little bit, making sure to put the one Eijiro always stole up front. He smoothed out his blankets, turned on his speakers to play some music, and sat back down on his bed as casually as possible. He started to scroll on his phone, covering himself in his blankets, and let his mind relax. Just a little. Just so the weird fluttery feelings could calm and he could be a normal human being when Eijiro came. 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

If Katsuki thought Eijiro’s snoring through their shared walls was loud, it was nothing compared to the rumble of it against his back. Eijiro was so close he could feel his breaths on his neck. Every small sound that he made—from the smallest smack of lips to the loudest exhale. As his body woke up a little more, he realized the reason Eijiro was so close was because he was holding him so completely. His arm draped over his waist, the hand underneath him intertwined with his own so lightly. Like holding his hand was a sleepy afterthought. 

Usually, he'd always give shit to Eijiro for snoring, especially when they'd have those moronic group sleepovers and he already had to deal with the two giggly idiots in the corner who could never fucking sleep. He'd toss him a pillow, actually wake him up and tell him he was snoring so goddamn loud. But right now? When it was just the two of them, Eijiro so warm and solid around him? He felt so comfortable. So wrapped up in care. His heart became full with the fact that he had fallen asleep and the first thing Eijiro wanted to do was fall asleep next to him. 

He doesn't know why the thought alone was making his throat tighten up. Maybe because he treated Eijiro like shit today. And still, here he was, snoring in his ear. Holding his hand like it was something fragile. Stopping everything else to come hang out with him. How the hell did he end up with someone so… good as his best friend when he was such crap? How in the fuck is he someone's stupid “ultimate best friend”? How is he, Eijiro Kirishima, the embodiment of everything that's great in the world, the only thing good in his world, calling him his favorite person? Why does he care about him so much? How does he know when he needs his space on days like today? But comes running when he knows he needs him? God. Fuck. He's in love with his best friend so much it's starting to hurt. 

Katsuki lets their hands come together fully, giving Eijiro’s a squeeze before hearing him let out a hum. 

“Hmm? Hey! You're awake!” Eijiro said, soft and raspy like they'd been asleep for hours. And maybe they had. Katsuki didn't even know what time it was. “Sorry, was I snoring?”

He rolled his eyes, “I don't care.”

“What? You hate when I snore!” Eijiro shouted in the cutest way. God. He wanted to take all that rasp in his voice and save it for a rainy day to make it all the brighter. 

“No I don't.”

“Uh—I think the many pillows thrown to my face say otherwise.”

Katsuki let go of Eijiro’s hand to turn around, being met with the most beautiful eyes on earth. He had to really fucking stop himself from kissing Eijiro then, with his stupid spikes across his forehead, his face warm and pink from sleep. His lips puffy and with the crust of drool. He always found it amusing how quickly Eijiro would knock out into a deep sleep. 

“Good morning, Katsuki.” Eijiro said, and his heart just fluttered. The feeling floating to his throat.

“Is it morning?” 

“Nah, probably like 7 or 8. You were pretty knocked out when I got here.” 

“So you just decided to fall asleep next to me?”

He felt the tickle of Eijiro scratching and playing with his hair behind his scalp. The action so soft and gentle. He's never been treated with such care.

“Mmm hmm.” 

Katsuki started to do the same, carefully tucking a strand of hair behind Eijiro’s ear. 

So many words felt stuck in his throat, tumbling around and aching to fall out. He wanted to tell Eijiro how much he loves him. How much of his stupid selfish heart he had. He wanted to say how beautiful he was, there in the half light. How much he wanted to be a sappy idiot and let Eijiro call him things like baby, and angel, and gorgeous and his . That all he wanted to do right now was press against those sleepy lips. How sorry he was that he was such a shitty friend.

The last one he could say at least.

“Sorry.”

“For what?” Eijiro chuckled. 

“Yelling at you today. Throwing pillows in your face.”

“Hey, that second one hasn't happened in a while.”

“I'm sorry for being a crappy friend, Ei.”

“You've never been!” Eijiro almost shouts. “You just had a crappy day today, nothings wrong with that.”

“I know. But I treated you like crap.”

“Katsuki. Stop saying that. You just told me to leave you alone. And I did.”

“But I didn't have to yell at you and shit.”

“Okay. You didn't. But I also didn't have to bother you when I could tell you were feeling off today.”

Katsuki was taken aback at that, “You could tell?”

“Of course I could. You're my… Katsuki , you know?” 

“Huh?” He asked.

“You're my Katsuki.” Eijiro repeated.

“Your Katsuki?” 

“I know it's kind of stupid, but you are! Like not like I'm saying I'm—I don't know how to explain it. But it's like a best friend thing, you know? You're my Kats. And I’m your Shitty Hair, right? Or whatever you decide to call my hair that day.”

Katsuki couldn't help but laugh, the only emotion mixing inside of him that he could control, “You’re an idiot.”

“Yeah I know it's kinda stupid. I'm not making any sense.”

“No. You're just not my Shitty Hair .”

“I'm not?”

Katsuki decided to indulge himself, just a little, when he said, “No, moron. You're my Ei.”

Goddammit. God-fucking-dammit. How in every hell is he not supposed to kiss Eijiro when he smiles like that? So full of joy and everything he loves so much.

“I'm glad you're feeling a little better.”

He wasn't, but he didn't want to worry Eijiro anymore than he had.

“It's whatever. Let's just go back to sleep. Unless you're hungry?”

“Why are you always trying to feed me?” Eijiro chuckled.

“Because you—you're always talking about meat, you moron.”

Eijiro laughed, “You're such a dork, Katsuki.”

“Says you, meat moron.”

“Oh my god, a big dork!” 

Eijiro rolled away from him and before he could literally pout from the loss of warmth, his best friend rolled on top of him, pinning his shoulders down before he could protest. 

Katsuki could feel the tickle of Eijiro’s hair on his face, the heat of his breath. And his eyes were so close. So close he could see the sparkle in them, a crimson galaxy twirling just for him, hidden beneath the chasm. He let his gaze roam to his lips, those pink, pretty lips that held everything he wanted to say. With a whisper, Eijiro smiled. 

“It's okay, though. You’re my dorky Katsuki anyway.” 

“Fucking mor—hey!” Katsuki shouted as Eijiro let all his weight fall on top of him. His breath almost falling out of his lungs, “What the fuck are you doing?” 

“Hmm, sooo comfy,” Eijiro yawned—actually had the nerve to fucking yawn in his face. 

“Get the hell off!” 

“Pillows don’t talk, last time I checked.” 

“What the fuck!” 

“Such a loud pillow. Maybe I should ya know, fluff it until it's quiet.” 

Katsuki let out an exasperated chuckle, “You really don’t think about half the shit that comes out of your mouth. And you better not even dare, asshole.” 

“Eh, too lumpy.” Eijiro said, rolling off of him, but keeping a hold on his waist. 

“You’re the fucking dork.” Katsuki retorted, a yawn finding its way out of his chest. 

“And you’re sleepy.” 

He wasn’t gonna fight against that, so instead he let himself be held by Eijiro. 

Damn, he loves him so much. 

He’d do anything for him. 

Rearrange every star. 

“Goodnight, Tsuki. See you in the morning.” 

“Night, Ei.” He whispered. 

And with a calming breath, he let himself drift off into another day. 

A heavy breath left his lungs and Katsuki could feel a sting on his skin, an ache in his jaw. All the world around him was blurred, and he didn’t know if it was from tears or anger. 

He knew Aizawa was behind him, considering that he felt his anxiety at the tipping point and there was a lack of sparks coming from his palms. 

His breaths were cold and clawing at his throat and he couldn't get them to settle. It felt like he had been screaming for hours, his whole body raw, and now someone was dipping him in lemon juice. He felt sour. Bitter. Everything stung. Everything hurts. 

How stupid  was he? 

“Bakugo,” Aizawa shouted, “What happened here?” 

“Mr. Aizawa! Bakugo was—” A stupidly concerned extra started to say, but Aizawa held out his hand to silence them. 

“Bakugo.” Aizawa said again, his hair finally falling. “You need to calm down.” 

“I—” 

His teacher shook his head, “Do you really think you can afford detention again? I already told you. Next time it's indefinite suspension. Now, go to my office and wait for me there. We’ll discuss what happened away from all this chaos you created.” 

“I didn’t—What the hell!” He managed to spit out. 

He didn’t create the chaos! He didn’t start shit! Why the fuck is Aizawa just assuming everything was his fault? 

“Bakugo. Go.” Aizawa said, enough intensity in his eyes to make him want to punch something—again. 

“But—” He started, feeling his heart still pounding in his throat. 

“I understand why you did it, Bakugo. But the way you went about it was uncalled for.”

“Let me fucking—”

Aizawa held out his hand, “Your language can get you even more.”

“Why the hell isn't the stupid extra getting punished?!”

“I'm not his teacher, I can't send him to detention, but I can send you.”

“That's bullshit!”

“Bakugo. Now.”

Katsuki clenched his jaw so tight he could taste blood. Which was stupid on his part because his lip was cut up so bad from that bastard’s stupid quirk. He knew Aizawa saw him wince. 

Aizawa sighed, “Just—go to Recovery Girl. Next time, house arrest. Again.”

“Fine.” He spat, turning to make his way towards her office.

“And, Bakugo?”

“ What ?” He barked, rolling his eyes as he turned back.

“No visitors.”

He scoffed, “No one's gonna visit me.”

“Oh I know someone who will.” Aizawa said, sounding one hundred percent done with his ass.

He avoided eye contact as much as he could as he walked to Recovery Girl. He was sure everyone knew what happened at this point. Including Eijiro. And how embarrassing was that? Wait. Fuck that. It wasn't embarrassing. What was more embarrassing? Being a goddamn homophobic piece of shit in this day and age! How the hell was that shit in a hero school with morals like that? But still. The things he said after were enough to embarrass him. Enough for his heart not being able to settle. For his hands to tingle. His whole body felt electric. On fire. Ice cold.

Katsuki took a calming breath as he walked in the door and signed in to the office, ready to get reprimanded even further.

He always wondered why the place didn’t smell like medicine, considering it was a nurse’s office. But he appreciated it. He always felt sick to his stomach in hospitals, but here, it was kind of okay. 

“Oh, sonny. What did you do this time?” Recovery Girl said as soon as he sat on the small paper-covered bed. 

He didn't answer, just let the shaking feelings twirl in his chest. The old lady came towards him in her chair, a box of supplies in her hand. 

“Now now. I understand training is important, but you need to be more careful. You kids in Class 1A always go above and beyond.” Recovery Girl clicked her teeth. 

 “It wasn't training.” Katsuki mumbles.

“Oh?” She said while wiping away the blood from his lip. He winced. Whatever medicine she was putting on him stung. “Is that why your teacher said no visitors?”

She continued to wipe over the skin, putting small bandages as she finished up.

“Now, I'm not going to heal you fully. Just your lip since it's the worst of your injuries. It's safer that you heal the rest of your cuts properly. The medicine I just put on you should help a little.”

“It's fine.”

“Are you sorry for what you did?”

“No.”

“Do you want to talk about it? With All Might maybe?”

He felt his eyes widen, “No!"

Recovery Girl tsked her disapproval, “No need to shout at me.” 

The nurse gave him a small kiss on his cheek, and he felt the pain subside automatically, the sensation in his lips tickling like he had an itch to scratch. 

“There you go, sonny. Mouth all healed. Though the cut on your lip is going to bruise and sting a little still, so do be careful.” She reached into her pocket then, “Here you go. Something sweet.” She said, offering him a lollipop. 

He took it without hesitation, taking off the wrapper and popping the thing in his mouth in hopes it would calm the sea in his stomach.

“I think you need something sweeter though, eh?” She smiled knowingly. “Why don't you rest up here? I can give you something to help.”

Katsuki took a shaky breath, “Okay.”

“Here are some antibiotics. We don't need you to get an infection from those cuts of yours. If I'm seeing correctly, I know the quirk. They cut deep. Just drink some here and you'll be fine.”

“Okay,” he said again, taking the offered small paper cup and packet of pills. 

“Would you like some pain killers?” 

“I’m fine.” He said before taking the lollipop from his mouth, popping the medicine in instead and swallowing them down with water. 

“I'll send you home with some anyway, alright?” 

Katsuki nodded, crumpling his cup.

“Now, Dynamight. For what it's worth, I know if you’re not sorry you did this for a good reason. Your teacher is just upset at you for your brash actions, not why you did it. So not to worry, you were never out of his good graces.” 

“I don’t care.” He said through clenched teeth. 

“Oh, sweetie. You need to relax. Why don’t you take a nap here for the rest of the school day, hmm?” She held her hand out, taking his trash from him. 

“Fine.” 

Recovery Girl gave him a small smile, getting up from her seat to dim the lights, coming back with a thick blanket after a second. 

“Here you go, rest up.” 

“Thanks,” He mumbled, starting to finish up the candy. When he was done, he got up to toss his stick in the small waste basket, returning to the bed to lay down fully.

He took deep breaths, trying to swallow down the heaviness in his chest, the tightness in his throat. But still, he could feel his heart beating rapidly, no matter how hard he tried to calm himself. 

Everyone knows now. Not like he cared. Not that he should care. But he hadn’t told his parents. He only told Eijiro and the rest of the idiots. And Izuku and Todoroki. But everyone knows now. He practically shouted it to the whole school. But how could he not? When that stupid fucking asshole was talking shit about Eijiro and who he was? When he was talking about his quirk in the fucking most disgusting way possible. The bastard was probably jealous, considering his quirk was about 5 percent of what Eijiro’s is. He could make his hands into claws. Sharp ones. 

Fuck. 

He was such an idiot. Of course he was saying that shit loud enough for him to hear. Why else would he be talking shit about the one fucking person he truly cared about right behind him? He wanted to piss him off specifically. And he fell for it. How stupid was he? 

He couldn’t take it anymore. He wanted to cry. Why the hell did he fucking punch back? To prove what? How did it even look? How was he meant to be a hero if he couldn’t control his temper when someone was talking shit about him and his best friend? Hell. He wanted to partner up with Eijiro after all this high school bullshit. This was just the start of all this. Why did he do that? What has he done? Everyone knows how to get to him now. And he just proved everyone right. He was a piece of shit who couldn’t control his anger. He disappointed Aizawa again. Eijiro is probably pissed at him for going off at someone. How in the fuck is he not a crappy friend? 

But he didn't let himself cry. Not here. Not in front of Recovery Girl where she’d prescribe him a non-crying pill or some shit. 

He could feel his lips trembling. He could feel his hands shaking, so he put the blanket up to his face, hiding himself underneath it. 

He closed his eyes, trying to swallow the panic that was tugging his throat down to his stomach. He could feel it in his arms. His legs. And he wanted to throw up. And he knew if he started crying the way he felt like, he would get sick. So he couldn’t cry. Not right now. Not when all he had was this blanket to hold him to the ground. 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

Katsuki could still feel the shake in his stomach when he woke up, but he felt the warmth of something against his forehead, fingers playing with his hair. He kept his eyes shut, not ready to be met with the light and people . 

“Oh, Kats.” He heard a voice whisper. He felt another kiss on his forehead, the roughness of a thumb against the corner of his eye. A warm, soft palm was now caressing his cheek, and he melted into it. He moved so his lips were right against that hand, just puckering his lips lightly for the sake of it. 

“Ei?” He mumbled, finally opening his eyes. They were crusty. Of course he was crying in his sleep. 

“Hey!” Eijiro smiled, and that was almost enough to evaporate everything that was holding him down. 

“Ei,” He whispered, and he hated how shaky it sounded.

“Katsuki,” 

“I’m—” It was all he could let out before his stupid tears started falling down his cheeks. 

“I know. I know you're sorry.” Eijiro whispered, keeping his hand right on his cheek. “It's okay, Katsuki. I'm not upset at you.”

Katsuki could feel his lips trembling, Eijiro reaching to wipe a tear off the top of them. 

“Okay?” Eijiro said, smiling.

“Okay,” he said back, feeling his breaths shake in his throat. 

“Hey. What happened?” 

“Like you don’t know.” He scoffed. 

“I wanna hear it from you.”

Katsuki sighed, giving Eijiro a glare. 

“I already told you I’m not upset at you. You telling me isn’t going to change that.” 

“You don’t wanna know, Ei. Trust me.” 

“I do.” 

“You don’t.” 

“Katsuki. I do.” 

He turned his face out of Eijiro’s hold, looking away from him completely, crossing his arms across his chest. 

“I thought Aizawa said no visitors.” 

“Like that was gonna stop me.” 

Fuck. He forgets how goddamn stubborn Eijiro is when he wants something. Not even in a spoiled or whatever way. He’s just so determined. So headstrong. 

So, he knew he had to give in. 

“Come here,” He said, uncrossing his arms and moving the blanket. Eijiro gave him one of his gorgeous grins as he sat in front of him, their legs touching. 

He still didn’t look at Eijiro, not until the persistent bastard grabbed his chin so he was forced to face him. 

“Tell me, Tsuki.” Eijiro whispered. 

Katsuki sighed, bracing himself. He wasn't going to tell him...everything. Eijiro didn't need to hear about the gross implications that extra was making. He could protect him from that, at least.

“Some extra was talking shit about you.” 

“Who?” 

“I don’t even know. Some asshole from the support course.” 

“Is he the one that just got suspended? With the hands like this?” Eijiro hardened his fingers and made them look like claws. 

“I guess.” 

“What was he saying?” 

“You don’t want to know, Ei.” 

“I already said I do.” 

Fuck. How could he deny him anything? 

“He was calling you stupid things for being…” 

“Gay?” 

“Yeah.”  

He paused, bracing himself, “And I got so pissed. So I asked what the hell his problem is. And he started saying he had a problem with you being that way. And how you probably used your quirk for…” His throat started getting tight. “I saw fucking red, Ei. And then I said if he had a problem with you, then he sure as hell had a problem with me.” 

Tears were pouring hot and heavy down his cheeks, falling into his mouth as he steadied his breathing. “I haven’t…. everyone knows now.” 

“I’m sorry, Katsuki.” 

“Then he punched me with his quirk. Got my lip and shit.” 

Eijiro fully took his face in his hands, “Aw, Kats. I’m sorry.” 

“Don’t be sorry. It's not your fault. And I’m not sorry for doing it, either. So don’t you dare be.” 

“Okay,” Eijiro said quietly. He let go of his face, pressing their foreheads together instead. 

“I only hit him once, but it was just to get him to back the fuck off. And of course, he acted like I started it.” 

“You have a bruise under your eye.” 

“I do?” 

“Yeah,” He chuckled, “Looks manly as hell.” 

And then, the feeling hit him again. 

“Only you, Kaminari, Sero, and the nerd and IcyHot knew.” 

“Not even your parents?” 

Katsuki shook his head. 

“Oh,” Eijiro pulled him closer, so careful as he wrapped him up in a hug. 

“I am sorry about that. No one should have to come out that way.” 

“It's not like they forced it out of me.” 

“But they were provoking you. You can’t let all the blame fall on you. Don’t beat yourself up even more.” 

“No one fucking beat me up.” 

“You know what I mean.” Eijiro laughed. “Hey. It's gonna be okay. You have me and everyone else to back you up if anything. Like hell if anyone is gonna give you crap for being the way you are.”

Katsuki smirked, which was stupid because it fucking hurt to move his lips like that, “Like hell?” 

“I’ve been spending too much time with you.” 

“Not enough.” He blurted out. 

Eijiro pulled back, and his heart jumped to his chest when he realized he was coming towards him with his lips puckered. In a panic, he slammed his hand over Eijiro’s mouth. 

“Do you not—” Eijiro said, muffled, his head tilting to the side like a goddamn confused puppy. 

“It's gonna hurt. And I won’t be able to stop.” 

He felt a tickle of a kiss pressed to his palm, and then another. 

“Later?” Eijiro took hold of his arm, taking it off of his mouth to place a kiss on his knuckles, his palm again, lips trailing up from his elbow to his wrist. “Tomorrow?” 

“T-tomorrow. Promise.”  He stupidly stuttered,“Just for the soreness to go away.”

Eijiro nodded, continuing to kiss up his arm, giving him a kiss on each of his fingers. Katsuki could feel his breaths getting heavy. 

“Ei, stop before they get after us for PDA or whatever.” 

He didn’t really think they would, but he had to say that before he said fuck it all and just gave in and kissed him and kissed him and kissed him . 

“Yeah, or whatever .” Eijiro laughed, “One more though.” With the softest brush of his lips, Eijiro gave him a kiss on the corner of his eye. “But. Ah—you’re my Katsuki right?” 

“I already said so.” 

“Yeah but, my Katsuki?” 

Fuck. He couldn’t help himself. He took Eijiro’s hand and placed it lightly above his lips. Barely puckering. 

“Yeah,” It's all he could manage to say, even though he wanted to scream on the rooftops, run up to the stars and tell the whole entire goddamn world that Eijiro was finally, finally his. 

“I’m yours, too, Katsuki. All yours.” Eijiro whispered, the prettiest smile gracing his face. He doesn’t think he’d ever seen Eijiro so happy. 

So, just for a second, he held Eijiro's hand and pretended everything was okay. 

When he opened the curtains the next morning, he noticed the snow had fallen. He had been so caught up in everything—especially with Eijiro’s constant pampering over a cut up face, that he had forgotten to check the weather. 

Usually everyone was bouncing off the walls about the stupid snow. Katsuki fucking hated it. It was too wet and too cold, and he felt so stupid all bundled up. But he had to be. His quirk somehow made it all the colder. 

Today was an all-day training day, so he walked to his closet to get the winter version of their gym clothes. He honestly doesn’t know if he’s up for training the whole damn day—especially with the weather, but who was he if he let one bad day ruin the rest of them? 

Before he left his room to his bathroom, he made sure to knock on his and Eijiro’s joining walls. 

He laughed as he heard a small, muffled, “I’m up!” At least he had that to brighten his day, Eijiro’s unmatchable joy. His Eijiro. Fuck. His Eijiro. All fucking his. 

When he finished changing and brushing his teeth carefully and messing with his hair, he looked at his face, the purpling bruise under his eye, the cut fading across his lip to a scar. Katsuki, despite usually hating being there, always appreciated the medicines the old lady would give him. They always healed him faster than normal, always made the pain less irritating the next day. 

Eijiro had spent the whole night caring for him. Feeding him his dinner, holding a stupid straw to his lips. 

He had stolen Eijiro from everyone else, staying in his room all night. He doesn’t know if Eijiro had minded. But, he had even gone out of his way to ask no one to bother them. 

And during the night, Katsuki clung to him all the same, never once separating himself from his side. 

His skin still felt on fire from the kisses Eijiro had carefully placed on his face, so soft. So electrifying. And, unfortunately, Eijiro had taken his warning about no full kisses beyond seriously. It was as endearing as it was annoying.

A yawn found his throat as he walked out of his dorm, and he was met with Eijiro waiting for him with a grin right outside his door. 

“Hey, Ei.”

“Good morning! How are you feeling?” Eijiro asked before planting a kiss on his cheek.

He chuckled, “You left my dorm about three hours ago.”

“Four! And I didn't leave. You kicked me out.” Eijiro pouted.

“You were awake the whole night like an idiot.”

“I was taking care of you!” 

Katsuki rolled his eyes, “I'm just cut up, Eiji.”

“Deep cuts!” He argued.

Katsuki shook his head, “You're ridiculous.”

“Besides, what kind of…ah—boyfriend would I be if I wasn't taking care of you?” Eijiro whispered, his cheeks blooming with color, reaching to give his arm a squeeze. 

He felt the heat rush to his own, and he tapped Eijiro’s foot with his.

“Still a stupid one.” He teased.

They closed the little space then, and he hugged Eijiro as tight as he could. 

“Good morning, babe.” Eijiro whispered against his cheek, his nose tickling at his temple. He reached up to cup his cheek, kissing his nose. 

“Babe?” Katsuki smiled, his heart stuttering. 

Eijiro blushed, “Yeah,” He ran a thumb across his cheekbone. “Is that okay?” 

“Are you gonna stop calling me man and all that shit?” 

“If you want me to.” 

“I..I want you to.” He confessed. 

“Good. Cause I want to.” 

Eijiro beamed, pulling him into an excited hug. Holy hell was he adorable.

“Good morning, babe.” Eijiro said again, squeezing him tight. 

“Morning.” Katsuki sighed into their embrace, being tickled with that sweet scent that was all just Eijiro. “You gonna call me that all the time now?” 

“Maybe. I like the way it makes you smile.”

Katsuki felt his throat constrict, “Shut up. I don’t smile for shit.” 

“Sure you don’t,” Eijiro ran his hands down his back in small circles, kissing his cheek again. “Hey, you sure you’re okay with school today?” 

“Why the hell wouldn’t I be?” He scoffed. He wasn’t gonna hide scared in his dorm all day like a fucking coward. Wasn’t that bastard suspended anyway? 

“I still think you should rest.” 

“They’re fucking cuts , Ei.” He said for the millionth time. 

“They’re not just cuts.” Eijiro mumbled, “Everything was so emotional yesterday. And you know how our class is. They’ll be asking you a bunch of questions. I know you won’t want that.” 

Fuck. Katsuki hadn’t even thought about that. Dammit. The class is full of stupid gossipy idiots, especially the ones he tolerates to hang out with. 

They’re gonna be bombarding him with questions now, even more now considering they didn’t see Eijiro either. What is he even gonna say? What would they even ask? Would they even care or just toss it off as another one of his “tantrums”. Why the hell else would he just randomly yell and punch someone behind him? They probably thought it was ‘cause of his stupid temper. And it was. He let someone get under his skin again. And now fully knowing he had done that shit on purpose just to piss him off, he looked like the fucking stupid one. Would they ask him what the fight was about? How in the ever-loving hell is he supposed to say that he punched an asshole for shitting on the person he’s in love with? That he practically yelled that to a group of random extras? How does he fucking say that without looking like an asshole himself without telling the big glaring truth? And what if word got around? He hasn’t told his parents. What if they hear it from someone else? I-A was always around the gossip mill for idiotic reasons, especially him, Deku, and Half and Half. 

His stomach was on the floor again, sparking with static. Even in Eijiro’s embrace, he could feel his shoulders stiffen. He tried to swallow, to tell the feelings to literally fuck off, but he knew Eijiro noticed. 

“Hey. No. I’m sorry I asked. It’s gonna be okay. You know me, I just…” Eijiro sighed, starting to let go of him. 

Katsuki shook his head lightly, squeezing Eijiro tighter so he wouldn’t. 

He couldn’t believe he’d been so distracted with being lovey and sappy with Eijiro that he hadn’t even thought about all the shit that could go down today. 

“I’m sorry.” Eijiro whispered, kissing his forehead. 

“What did I tell you about that?” 

“I am sorry, Kats. You can’t stop me from saying that, when this is actually my fault.” 

“You didn’t mean…” He shook his head again, “You’re just being your worried self.” 

“I am worried about you, Kats. Coming out is a big thing, and part of that was taken away from you because of me.” 

Well, he was upset now. Literally fuck that. 

“Eijiro. Did you ask that stupid shit to be homophobic in front of me?” 

“…No,” 

“Did you ask me to set him fucking straight and tell him off?” 

“Katsuki…” 

“Then what happened yesterday is not your fault. Stop letting that head of yours think like that.” 

Eijiro frowned, “Okay.” 

He fell into Eijiro’s embrace again, and as soon as he did, Eijiro started to kiss his head.

“You know? It's tomorrow.”

“I can see that.” 

“Katsuki. It's tomorrow .”

Eijiro pulled back again and reached for his chin, running his thumb across his cheek.

“Yeah? What about it?” He teased.

He didn't say anything else as he let himself be led to Eijiro’s lips, he could feel his heart pounding, his stomach jumping. Starlight all over his body. He became entranced by Eijiro’s small smile as their lips came close. 

Their noses squished together, their hearts now rapidly beating in sync, the colors of their cheeks swirling together. 

“Can I?” Eijiro asked, his voice like a sweet beam of sun peaking through the clouds.

He didn’t answer, instead he brought their lips together, Eijiro bringing him to flame with the warmth he held within him. The joy he radiated. The sweetness he could taste. He never wanted to stop. He wanted to stay here, with Eijiro’s lips caressing his like ribbons of silk. With his hands trailing along his back like trickles of raindrops, finally the calm after the storm. A bright beam of colors chasing away the clouds. 

He stopped kissing him just to kiss him again, their lips never but a whisper apart. He kissed him again and again and again. 

And again. 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

“Tsuki, you didn’t bring a second jacket?” Eijiro asked right before they walked out of the dorms. 

“We’re gonna be moving around and shit. I don’t want to have to deal with more clothes.” 

“Aw, well if you get cold, you can borrow mine?” Eijiro smiled, swinging their arms that were in the middle of them. They held hands all the way from their dorms to the elevator, to the common room. Eijiro had tried to pull away, but Katsuki didn’t let him. Even if it was just for the moment, he'd let himself hold his boyfriend’s hand out in the open. 

“You just don’t want to wear your jacket.” He chuckled. 

Eijiro didn’t have the answer for that as they went outside Gym Gamma where they were set to train. 

He had to admit, he was cold. But that would be over soon when they’d start training. It was good, anyway, for him to practice all his moves in the cold—likely a reason why Aizawa wanted them to train in this weather.

They were early, so Katsuki led Eijiro to a bench right outside the area. 

They both sat, Eijiro smiling and patting his lap for him to lay his head on. 

“I…” He stuttered, a bit of nerves pinching his stomach. 

“I know you’re tired. It's just for a little bit.” Eijiro assured him. 

Katsuki shrugged, laying down and resting his head on the cushion of Eijiro’s legs. And, because of course he would, he took off his jacket and covered him up. He took a deep breath then, trying to get his emotions to fuck off.

“You’re gonna freeze.” 

“I’m okay.” 

Eijiro smiled as he started to run his fingers through his hair, brushing it off his forehead. And, because no one was looking, and because his sappy—so completely in love with Kirishima Eijiro—heart couldn’t stop itself, he puckered his lips for a kiss. 

There was that warmth again. Blooming above him as Eijiro tangled his fingers in his strands, kissing him with everything that he didn’t deserve to have. He could feel how cold Eijiro’s nose was, but how radiant his heart was, connecting with his. Fuck, would every kiss feel this way? Like the world was spinning and slowing down just to look at them so damn in love? Would his world always stop? Would his heart always beat this quickly? Would his whole body always feel on fire? 

Luckily the snow had stopped falling, the chill still in the air. If not, Eijiro would find some way to shield him from it. 

And. That's the thing with love isn't it? Always wanting to shield them from anything that could hurt them, even the smallest things. A stray snowflake in the wind. Even if they were strong enough. Hell of a lot stronger. He knew he had to let up on Eijiro. He had to let Eijiro care for him, because…how could he not? Even if he just…liked him? He cared about him enough to be his. To protect him when he sure as hell didn't need protection. But that's just…that. He loves him. He loves Eijiro so much. And he's so glad he has a chance to share it with him. Even if they were in different places, even if Katsuki may like him a lot more than Eijiro liked him. He’s fine with that. He’s fine with loving Eijiro so fully. It's what he deserves. If Katsuki would be enough? He wasn’t sure. But he is so completely in love. His heart so connected that he wondered if they were beating in sync.  

“Whatcha so thinky about? You okay?” 

Eijiro smoothed his finger over the crease in his brow, the featherlight touch of the rough pad of his thumb making him shiver. 

“You cold?” 

He shook his head, almost laughing at the way Eijiro was filled with such concern over a wrinkle in his forehead. God. Fuck. He loves him. He loves him so much. So, so much.

Katsuki’s head then turned to the side as he heard the smallest sound of laughter, and his stomach pulled to his feet. But as soon as the crunch of footsteps got closer, small ones at that, the knot in his stomach lessened. It was just Eri and Aizawa, coming to where they were sitting, Eri covered up in god knows how many layers. Aizawa, of course, in just his typical hero gear and a bright yellow scarf he had to assume was Eri’s. 

“Mr. Red Riot!” Eri shouted, letting go of Aizawa’s hand and sprinting to where they were. Aizawa was about to call out to her, but then his gaze snapped to him. 

“Bakugo. What are you doing out of your dorm?” 

He just scoffed, turning away from him and being completely aware that he was still laying on Eijiro’s lap. 

Eri started to tell them both how excited she was about the snow, absentmindedly playing with Eijiro’s fingers that were now hardened. 

“Mr. Red Riot, why aren't you all bundled up?” 

“Aw, Eri. You can call me Kirishima, you know? Or Kiri.” 

Eri seemed to think that over, and Katsuki almost let out a shout at how Eri's hand was so small against Eijiro’s. How. Fucking. Cute. 

“Aren’t you cold?” 

“Not really! My quirk helps with that. But Mr. Dynamight is cold. Right Mr. Dynamight?” Eijiro tossed him a grin. 

“Kirishima is stupid. He is cold.” 

“Bakugo…” Aizawa chastised, waking to bend to where Eri was at. 

“Stupid is not a nice word. Deku said so.” 

Eijiro laughed, “That's a way to convince him, Eri.” 

Katsuki rolled his eyes, “Kirishima is lending me his jacket because I’m cold. He’s being nice.” 

Eri lit up at that, her eyes sparkling, “Is it because you’re best friends? Deku says you two are best friends.” 

Katsuki let out an amused snort, “Something like that.” 

“Katsuki is my boyfriend!” Eijiro said at the same time, beaming. Though, as the words left his mouth, he broke out into a blush, his eyes darting between him and Aizawa. 

Katsuki finally got up from his lap, taking Eijiro’s jacket and handing it back to him. 

Aizawa gave Eijiro his version of an assuring smile, none of them noticing that Eri was now beyond beaming, “Like my dads!” 

Her… huh ? 

But honestly? Katsuki couldn’t kid himself. Aizawa and Mic were close as hell. And they were…oh, ha. The yellow scarf, that had to be Mic’s. Huh. 

Aizawa let out a sigh, “Yes, like your… dads .” He was sure Aizawa was blushing.

Eri smiled at them both, opening up her arms so Eijiro could scoop her up into a hug. 

And, because of course she would. Cute little shit and all, she opened her arms to him next. He gave her a light squeeze, ruffling her hair as much as he could. 

“Come on, Eri. Let’s wait for Deku to make your snowman.” 

“Is Lemillion coming?” 

“Not today, sweetheart.” 

But before they could leave, “Mr. Aizawa? No training today?” Eijiro asked. 

Aizawa shook his head, “Eri wants to make a snowman. You two can either go back to the dorms, which I highly recommend, Bakugo. Or just stay here until lunch.” 

Katsuki shrugged, “Ei do you wanna—”

“No training, though.” Aizawa said, sternly.

Fucking…whatever, then.

Before they could decide what to do, Eijiro was jerked up from the bench by Kaminari, a chorus of shouts accompanying him.

“Hey! Come on, Mic gave us permission to have a fun day in Gym Gamma!” Denki said while giving a tug to Eijiro’s arm. 

Mina came to his other side, grabbing hold of his arm, “Yeah! Come on, Kiri! We're gonna play truth or dare and would you rather and—”

“Aw guys, sorry. I kinda just wanted to go back to the dorms.” 

“What!” Denki screeched, “Come on, man! That's no fun at all. When do we ever get to goof off during actual school?”

“Yeah!” Mina pouted. 

“You just want to ask everyone stupid shit again.” He scoffed. 

“No I don’t! Come on, Blasty! Don’t be boring! Have some fun.”  They both let go of Kirishima, already heading to the entrance of the gym. 

Eijiro gave her a hard look, “Hey, leave him alone, Mins.”

Mina’s eyes fell to sympathy, and he wanted to scream, “Oh, I'm sorry. I forgot! But um, what about you, Kiri?”

“Ah— I don’t really feel good today and Aizawa said we could go back to the dorms anyway.” Eijiro tossed her a sheepish grin. He wanted to say he didn't have to do that for his sake, but it felt nice. And he let himself feel nice. To be taken care of.

With a smile he couldn’t bother hiding, he grabbed hold of Eijiro’s wrist for just a second. 

“You two are so annoyingly cute sometimes.” Denki rolled his eyes. 

“Hey!” Eijiro yelled as they both walked away. 

“I don’t want to play shit, but I really don’t feel like being at the dorms.” 

“You don’t?” 

He shook his head, “Nah.”  

“Do you want to go inside the gym to warm up?” 

“Sure.” 

Eijiro held the door open for him as they walked in and soon they spotted Denki, Sero, Todoroki in a small circle. Denki was all smiles as they sat down, giving Eijiro’s arm a squeeze as he sat to the left of him. 

“Hey, Kiri! Blasty! You stayed!” 

“Katsuki wanted to. But I don’t really want to play anything.” 

“We’re just talking!” Sero grinned, “Morning, you two.” 

“Morning!” Eijiro beamed back. 

Todoroki looked half asleep still, leaning on Sero’s shoulder. He gave him a small nod and Katsuki gave him one back. 

“You guys don’t mind if Shinso joins, right?” 

“Why the hell would we, Sparky?” 

Katsuki took a glance at Eijiro, making some small conversation about their lunch plans, and, just because he wants to, he grabs Eijiro’s fingers, their knees pressed up against another's. 

He shouldn’t be surprised that he somehow always gravitates closer to Eijiro, no matter where they are. He doesn’t even think Eijiro notices how he's playing with his hand between them, their fingers lightly wrapped together.

“Hey,” He said, getting his attention from his fading conversation. 

“Hey.” Eijiro says. 

With his heart pounding, he gives Eijiro’s hand the smallest of squeezes. 

Smiling, Eijiro gives him one back. 

Denki starts talking about Shinso then, how excited he was about their dumb second or third date. How he can't wait to see how “cute” he looked in winter stuff. Despite the chorus of ‘ ew’  that was going on in his head, it was really kind of…funny. How smitten Denki seemed. How stupidly admirable the fucker was, basically waxing poetic about a guy he only went on a first date with. 

And he knew Todoroki was practically a dumbass, and he really didn't like to hide anything . Ask the fucker how the weather is, and it turns into a stupid therapy session—sans the payment.

So, it shouldn't surprise him that he's letting Sero play with his fingers as his arm is draped over his shoulder. That Todoroki isn't hiding how idiotically in love he is with stupid Tape Arms with that dopey look in his eyes. How Sero isn't hiding it either—going by the way…fuck. When did they start kissing ? When did they start kissing and being sappy in front of everyone? 

No one even blinks an eye in their direction, but Katsuki knew he was being a downright creeper, looking at them so intensely. 

He tears his gaze away, ignoring the lump in his throat. Fuck. He was just feeling okay? What the hell was up?

Katsuki turned to Eijiro then, watching him as he smiled at Denki as he went on and on. He doesn't know how he could be so kind and patient. He surely would've told Denki to fuck off at this point. 

And, how patient was Eijiro? Would it be fair to him to ask to not say anything about their relationship? They had just started it. And already Katsuki was freaking out. 

But, before he could tell Eijiro they maybe should go back to the dorms to talk this out, Mina came running along with Pink Cheeks, pulling her by her wrist to sit down in the circle.

“Okay! I got a recruit!”

“Ooo, a new victim!” Denki drawled.

“What?” Ochako snorted, sitting down next to Sero with a polite smile.

“Ignore them, Cheeks.” he said, rolling his eyes. 

“Aw, morning, grumpy!” Ochako beamed, giving him a genuine smile. Fucking hell, with this small group alone he was going to get sunshine overload. 

“Oh, Toshi! Over here!” Denki shouted suddenly, looking towards the door of the gym. 

He saw Shinso walk in, in almost as many layers as Eri. He had to wonder if it was Aizawa or Mic layering them up like that. And—going by Aizawa’s scarf he had to assume it was the latter.

Shinso’s head snapped towards them, and he’s never seen someone get so goofy looking over Kaminari. He doesn’t even think he’s seen the bastard smile before. 

Denki waved until Shinso got to them, Eijiro making a space and scooting that much closer to him, their legs stacked on each other’s, Katsuki’s skin now tingling.

“Hey! You look so cute!” Denki said, smiling up at Shinso as he sat. 

“So do you.” Shinso said back, sitting down and clearly surprising Denki as he pressed their lips together. It was a sight to see, Denki slack jawed and wide eyed, a blush aggressively coloring his face. He almost wanted to laugh at how dumb he looked, Shinso already laughing quietly, kissing Denki again on the cheek. 

Katsuki knew he was being an asshole. And the deepest part of him is happy for his dumb friends. They were all so happy. All so stupid and mushy and in puppy love. And Why? Why can’t he be that way? He’s held in his love for Eijiro for so fucking long and now he gets the chance to show it and he’s closing up like a coward? Sitting here in almost idiotic tears from seeing Sparky of all people kissing on Eye Bags. And, he knew Eijiro. Eijiro loved being touchy. He loved showing his affection. Hugging him and his best friends all the time and he swears he even used to kiss Denki on the cheek back in second year. And now he has an asshole boyfriend who’s depriving him of that? Why the fuck is he even hiding? Eijiro told Eri of all people. Hell, Aizawa has known for years that he’s loved Eijiro and he’s never told him anything against it. Moronic Deku already put two and two together with his “best friends” bullshit. 

Eijiro deserves a better boyfriend. He deserves someone who’s not ashamed and not a fucking coward to show the world who he loves. And why can’t that be him? Why can’t he be like everyone else and kiss everything he loves the most on the cheek when he sees him? Call him cute and borrow scarves and rest on his shoulder? Sure, he lets himself be stupid and sappy in front of Denki and Sero and Mina, but that's because they're them and stupid and just chalk it up to them being “best friends”.

“Bakugo! Blasty! Truth or dare?” Mina asked, jerking him out from his thoughts.  

“I thought we were just talking. I’m not playing shit. Especially not with you.” He spit out. 

Mina’s face fell, Ochako looking at him with a frown. 

Well...what? He didn’t want to play those stupid games! Why is that such a fucking crime to say so? 

“What, Pinky?” He groaned. 

“You don’t have to be so rude, Blasty.” Mina stuck out her tongue at him, “I’m just trying to involve you in the fun.’ 

“I’m not being rude, it’s not my fucking fault you took it that way.” 

“Excuse me, Bakubabe, you were being rude.” Mina squinted at him, “What's the big deal about truth or dare anyway? It's just us!”

“Because you always ask stupid shit. It's just gossip. I don’t want to answer shit about kisses and crushes and crap.” 

“But why not?” Mina whined, crossing her arms. 

“Because I fucking said so.” He glared. 

“Okay. Okay. I promise if you play, I won't ask about crushes and kisses and crap.” 

Katsuki squinted, “You promise?” 

“Pinky!” Mina held up her hand, sticking her pinky out. 

He sighed, reaching over to wrap his finger around Mina’s.

“Alright, whatever.” 

“Yay! Okay so, truth or dare?” 

“Truth.” He said. 

“Hmmm,” Mina rubbed her chin in contemplation, “What is the stupidest thing you’ve ever done?” Mina eyed him, giving him an excited glance. Eijiro squeezed his hand and he felt his throat burning. 

“Like I’m gonna answer that shit.” He knew what Mina was getting at, and he didn’t want her to get the satisfaction. He’s not gonna give her the stupid gossip about what happened yesterday. Just so she could spread it around and act like it was some big fucking scandal.

“Aw come on, your answers are always so boring.” Denki whined. 

“Can you idiots stop calling me boring? Fucking hell. Just because I don't want to participate in gossip doesn’t mean I’m boring.”  

“Hey, yeah, guys. Maybe we can back off each other a little?” Eijiro said, his thumb rubbing hidden circles on the back of his hand.  

“Come on, we won’t judge you!” Denki said. 

“I already answered my truth, moron.” 

Fuck. He does not have the patience for this bullshit. He should’ve just listened to Eijiro and went back to the dorm. And, of course, his face was starting to hurt from all the frowning he was doing. God, he couldn’t even make faces. Fuck it. This was stupid.  

With a huff, he got up, walking away before anyone could protest. He especially didn’t want to show them he was in pain. And he didn’t know what part of him hurt more. He took a deep breath, settling his heart as he let the shock of pain subside. He was sure it was from him getting stupid and riled up more than the cuts themselves. 

“Hey, Katsuki! Wait up!” He heard Eijiro shout from behind him, making him stop in his tracks. 

Katsuki turned around, letting the anxiety in his chest quell at the sight of Eijiro running towards him with a look of concern. As he got closer, he let Eijiro pull him to a hidden part of the gym. Part of it was still ready for training, so they hid behind a small concrete wall. 

“Hey. You okay, babe?” Eijiro asked with softness dripping off his lips, his voice like caramel and honey. 

Katsuki felt his heart tremble. Here Eijiro was, calling him something sappy and sweet when he felt he was the fucking worst person on earth. How the hell does he even think someone like him is capable of being called something so loving?

“I don’t know what the fuck everyone’s problem is.” He scoffed. 

“Hey, Katsuki, I think you were being a little bit unfair, though. But, they should’ve listened to you when you said no, too. ” 

God, fuck. He was being unfair, wasn’t he?  But still, “I should’ve listened to you.” 

“You okay, though?” Eijiro pulled him close, his arms around his waist. He touched above his lip lightly, a tender touch on stinging skin. 

“No,” He admitted. 

Eijiro clicked his teeth, “You wanna go back to your dorm now?” 

Katsuki nodded, and because he knew they were hidden, and because fuck the stupid pain, he gave Eijiro a careful kiss. 

Eijiro hummed, “Yeah, we should go back to your dorm. I definitely want to do more of that.” 

And then, his stomach churned, “Wait, Ei, can we talk about…all this?” 

“All what?” 

“Being…” He gestured between them, his eyes darting to the ground. 

“Hey, yeah! We can talk about us.” Eijiro’s finger came to lift his chin up, and he was met with that beautiful smile. Eijiro’s beautiful, goofy, Eijiro smile that he could never get enough of. 

He gave Eijiro a small kiss just because he could. He’d give Eijiro kisses every second of the day if he wasn’t a damn coward. But. They were going to talk about it. Everything will get better. He can work this out with Eijiro just like everything else. The only matter is working it out with himself. 

They started walking back to the dorms, Eijiro walking to Aizawa and telling him they were heading off. Apparently, the school had given everyone the rest of the day off for the weather anyway, so it was a whole day to themselves.

They didn't talk, so Katsuki had time to think in all that silence, the snow starting to fall again. He couldn't help but realize—no one had mentioned his black eye. It wasn't like bruises and scrapes and cuts were uncommon, it was a norm between all the training and work studies. But he was sure everyone knew why he had gotten cut up and bruised. Maybe he had just been expecting too little decency from his classmates. Maybe he was just getting pissed before anything even happened. And what would he expect if he told his classmates? If he let himself kiss Eijiro in the common room, before class? That they'd think less of him? 

Maybe some would. He couldn't change that. He couldn't control that. But what he could control is telling the truth. What's the stupidest thing he's done? Hiding his love for his best friend. 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

“So, what did you want to talk about, Tsuki?” Eijiro asked as they settled on his bed. 

Katsuki swallowed down the lump in his throat, smoothing his sweaty palms over his pant legs. Considering it was cold outside, he had already changed into sweatpants and—so not on purpose—forgotten to put on a hoodie and complained that it was cold. Eijiro had nicely offered one of his own. He had eaten a snack and took his pain meds, and now they were here; Eijiro looking at him so sweetly and Katsuki feeling like he wanted to implode on himself. 

But. This was Eijiro. His Eijiro. With his smile and his eyes and his kind heart. If anyone would understand? He knew he would. 

He let out a sigh, and he felt the softness of Eijiro’s fingers lacing with his, his thumb rubbing up and down his hand. 

“Ei,” He swallowed, “I…” God. Fuck. Here he was trying to not be a fucking coward anymore and be okay with all this shit and he couldn’t even come out with it in front of Eijiro. 

“Baby, what’s up?” 

Eijiro reached toward him to run a thumb over his cheek, his palm caressing him so softly. Like he was precious. He moved his face, so his lips were against his skin, kissing Eijiro right there. 

“Hey, don’t change the subject. I’m gonna want to kiss you again.” Eijiro said with a grin. 

Katsuki smiled, “Kiss me, then.” He didn't wait for him, coming forward to kiss Eijiro’s smile. One, two, three times. They were so close together that Eijiro’s blinks were in time with his heartbeat. And still, Eijiro was so careful, so gentle as he pressed their lips together. He’s never felt so wonderfully fragile. 

He’d never get over being so close to sweetness, getting to press his lips against someone so soft. Feeling Eijiro’s smile against his. That he was able to push Eijiro down gently, their lips staying connected, that he could shiver as Eijiro’s hands ran to his waist, grasping it firmly. That the only sound between them was the smack of their lips and the heaviness of their breaths. That he could hold Eijiro so so close, his fingers tickling his skin. That Eijiro’s lips couldn’t leave his. Not until they parted for heated gasps, tingling lips now mouthing at his neck. 

“Ei,” He gasped, feeling Eijiro’s teeth graze his skin. 

Eijiro’s hands started running underneath his hoodie and he let out a breath. He doesn’t know what to do with himself, feeling Eijiro’s lips up and down and up and down the bend of his neck, his collarbone. He came back up to his jaw, his chin and his whole body felt on fire. He tangled his fingers in Eijiro’s hair, using the leverage to pull him back to his lips. He kissed Eijiro strongly. He kissed him and he kissed him, and he kissed him. He kissed him because he could. Because he’d been waiting 3 years for this. A lifetime. Just this. He felt desperate for it, clinging to Eijiro so closely, his hands lost in red. His lips lost in Eijiro. He ignored the sting, instead letting the heat build inside of him. 

“Katsuki.” Eijiro whispered, his name sounding like starlight coming from his lips. He’s said it before. He’s whispered it. He’s shouted it. But never had it sounded so beautiful. Mumbled against his lips, intertwining with his heart. 

“Katsuki,” Eijiro said again, and Katsuki pulled away from him. Eijiro kissed him one more time, the chill of his lips cooling his flame. 

They both stopped, looking into each other’s eyes. Eijiro had never looked so beautiful, with his face flushed, pink from his ears to his neck. His skin dipped in rose petals. His eyes soft and filled with everything lovely. His forehead furrowed, a sense of determination dancing in his gaze. Eijiro smiled, just a little, then took a heavy breath. 

“You okay? I didn’t hurt you, right?” Eijiro asked between exhales, smoothing his thumb over his bottom lip. 

Katsuki shook his head, every other sensation drowned out by the haze of kissing Eijiro. 

Then, with a whisper, Eijiro said, “Katsuki. I love you.” 

Katsuki felt something well up inside him, like a fountain filled and ready to burst. A cloud, full and heavy, ready to pour. A firework kindling, ready to explode. 

He couldn't catch his breath, not when Eijiro took it along with his fast beating heart. He could feel the heaviness of it zigzagging in his chest, and he knew Eijiro was freaking out in that head of his from his lack of response. But how could he respond to everything he’s ever wanted to hear? Just three simple words and Katsuki felt like flying. Flying to the top of the world, to the stars, just so he could share with the universe that Kirishima Eijiro was his every dream come true. 

Eijiro’s eyes filled with tears, his face flushing further. 

“I—I'm sorry. I know it's so sudden and we just started officially dating like a day ago and you haven't even been my boyfriend for like a whole day, but I do. I love you so much, Katsuki. I've loved you since…god, Katsuki. I've loved you so much since our first year and it hasn't gone away.” 

Katsuki’s heart bloomed, the petals of his love falling and swirling. 

“I thought—I thought that you could never love me back when you told me love was different for you. And I didn’t want to tell you because I didn't want to make you feel bad. But when you told me you liked boys too and you were so torn up about it? I felt so bad because I was so happy. Because then maybe then I had a chance and…” 

Eijiro sniffed, swallowing. Tears now pouring down his cheeks, a raindrop amongst the clouds. 

“You've always been the only one for me. Always. I've always been yours. There's never been anyone else. All those other crushes and stuff were just bullshit. I know that. Because I've never felt anything like this before. The way I feel about you, Katsuki? I love you so much it drives me crazy. I've been wanting to kiss you every day for the last three years and I've wanted you to be mine for the last three years. And I'm sorry if I'm too much, but love you so much, Katsuki. I love you. I love you so much. You—you're the love of my life. I know it. And I know it's—”

Katsuki took Eijiro’s face in his hands, pressing a kiss against his lips. His nose, his cheeks. His forehead. Everywhere. Their tears mingling as he pressed their foreheads together. He had to say it now. He had to say it back. He had to tell the entire world. How can he hide his love for Eijiro now, knowing he somehow had his heart? That he was the love of his life. How was that possible? How in the fuck was it possible that someone like Kirishima Eijiro loved him back. How can he hide this anymore when this is all he feels and more?  With every beat of his selfish heart. With every breath. Every blink. He loves Eijiro. He loves him. He loves him so goddamn much it was unreal. He didn’t think his heart was ever capable of so much love. 

He knew he was crying. He knew his dumb tears were spilling out of his face, but he couldn’t help it. 

Eijiro was shaking, like his words took everything out of him. Like it was somehow possible that he didn’t love him back. He started to wipe his tears away with his fingers, moving the sleeve of his hoodie up to clean his face carefully. He kissed the corners of his eyes, his nose. His wonderful lips. 

“Ei. Slow down.” Katsuki chuckled, the view of Eijiro blurry, but still so beautiful. 

“I know. I'm sorry. I'm—”

“Hey. No. Ei,” he sniffed, kissing Eijiro again, “Why are you sorry?”

“Because I—” He kissed him just to stop his stupidly insecure thoughts. How dare he think he doesn’t love him back. 

“I love you, too. So fucking much, Ei. I always have. Goddammit, Ei. I love you so much.”

“You do?” Eijiro beamed, kissing his lips.

“Fuck yeah I do.” He laughed, so teary, so shaky. 

“Oh my god.” Eijiro laughed right back, the prettiest  sound on earth.  “You do?”

Katsuki nodded, and he couldn't stop laughing, couldn't stop crying. Not when Eijiro looked so…handsome. With tears trickling down his face, a bright beam of a smile falling across his lips, his eyes sparkling with every color. The fountain blooming, the rain pouring, the fireworks rising.

“Why are you crying, Ei?” he asked, tucking a strand of hair behind his ear, keeping his hand right there. 

“Why are you crying?” Eijiro blubbered, taking his arms to hold him close, sobbing into his shoulder. Damn, he was everything. He was absolutely everything. 

He held Eijiro just as close, rocking them in their tight embrace, cherishing the moment where he knew their love was shared. The moment where he knew that the universe put them together just to love each other. That the world had stopped just to see them so in love. That he loves Eijiro. So so much. The love of his goddamn life. And, by some miracle? Eijiro loves him too. How did he get so lucky?

“You're wrong, by the way.” He said.

“Wrong about what?”

“I don't like boys and all that other bullshit. I just like you. I've always only liked you.”

“Just me?” Eijiro’s eyes widened, his lips parting.

“Only you,” He said, “And I know it's selfish. I've only liked you and it feels like I'm just trying to steal you away from everyone else.” 

Eijiro shook his head, “How is that selfish?” 

“Because you've liked people before, and you'll like other people and I—”

“Didn't I just tell you that I never really liked anyone else? Sure, I've had small crushes but…I've only been in love with one person. And I'm only going to be in love with one person for the rest of my life and that's you.” Eijiro said this so simply, like it wasn’t everything. Absolutely everything. But he wasn’t worth it. He knew he wasn’t. 

“You can't know that.” He argued. He knew, with every part of him, that Eijiro was the only person he’d ever love. And before, maybe he’d just thought he was being a stupid teenager all dramatic and shit about his feelings. But he’s never been so sure of anything. He knew Eijiro was the only one for him. But he also knew Eijiro had so much love to give. How could he keep him from that? How could he take the most precious heart and keep it next to his? He always knew he was unworthy of all that sweetness, all that care that Eijiro shared. 

“Yes, I can.” Eijiro chuckled, “And it's not selfish. I think it's beautiful. Loving how you do? That’s what I love about you, you know? You love and care about everything so much.” Eijiro kissed him then, lingering. “You're the love of my life, Katsuki. I know it. You're the only one for me, okay?”

“Fucking hell, EI.” He chuckled, and those stupid tears weren’t gonna stop any time soon. They fell down his face freely, and Eijiro smiled. He smiled and Katsuki felt his heart swooning. 

“I love you, Katsuki.” Eijiro said, his lips so close. 

“I love you, too.” He kissed Eijiro. He kissed him. He kissed him. He fucking kissed him. Fuck, he couldn’t stop kissing him and kissing him and kissing him. He loves him so goddamn much. Fuck. Fuck .

He hugged Eijiro one more time, wrapping his arms around him. Squeezing him tight.  

They were silent then. Settling with their confessions, their raw feelings, exchanging the hearts on their sleeves. Finally catching his breath. 

He has to stop hiding. He has to stop being scared. It's what Eijiro deserves. And they need to talk about this. Now. No matter how hard it was to talk about. 

“We got really fucking distracted, didn't we?” He joked.

“I told you not to kiss me.”

“Like you didn't enjoy yourself.” 

He knew it was silly, but he had to make sure, “You sure you wanna be in love with me?”

“Of course, I do!” Of course, Eijiro smiled. Of course, he laughed. Like the concept of loving him was so simple. Like it wasn't so much work to love him. 

But he smiled too, “Good. Because I'm so fucking In love with you, Ei.”

Katsuki sighed away the last of his tears, knowing there was more to come. 

“Ei,” he whispered, pressing their foreheads together again, his arms resting on the small of Eijiro’s back. He let himself be pulled on Eijiro’s lap, glad for the closeness. Glad Eijiro knew him well enough that he knew he had to be close to him for this. “I don't want to hide this. I don't want to hide you.”

Eijiro nodded, letting him take his time. 

Katsuki took a breath, willing himself. 

“I see how you are, not hiding shit about yourself and I feel like a fucking coward for it. And I don't want you hiding part of yourself because of me. You're not like that and I'm not gonna let you change because of me.” Eijiro’s mouth gaped just a little, “And before you say any of that self-sacrificing bullshit that's already stirring in your head,” He smiled at the way Eijiro’s mouth closed back up. 

“I want to change, Ei. I'm tired of being a coward. I'm tired of hiding myself. That crap that happened yesterday? It just—I don't want to be ashamed anymore. And I'm not ashamed of you or anything like that. But you deserve to love someone who is proud of loving you. And I'm so fucking lucky to love you, Ei. I don't want to hide that. Not anymore. I spent 3 damn years hiding that. And now that you're mine? No fucking way. Everyone needs to know you're mine.”

He paused, letting his head and heart settle. 

With a deep breath he said, “I want to tell everyone in the class, if that's okay with you. And fuck, Eiji. I want to hold your damn hand on the way to school. I want to kiss you before class and make everyone all annoyed at how stupid and gross and in love we are. But—that's not gonna come right away. I know myself. I'm gonna need to take this shit slow. And maybe we can be a little more like…I don't fucking know? Touchy and crap in front of the morons but—”

“Hey, now you slow down.” Eijiro chuckled, kissing him softly. Katsuki nodded, letting his words float and linger in the air. 

“We can take it as slow as you want. We can tell everyone when you're ready. There's no rush, you know? And—I'm so happy for you. I'm so proud of you. This is a big step, Tsuki.”

Eijiro kissed him again and again, “And love? There's nothing wrong with…you weren't hiding yourself, okay? You don't have to be ashamed of being the way you are. Just because I like to be out there doesn't mean there's anything wrong with keeping it to yourself. There's no right or wrong way to be about this, okay? It's whatever you’re comfortable with. And, for what it's worth? You always tell people when it matters.”

Dammit. Stupid tears.

“Aw, Katsuki. Don't cry.” Eijiro said, leading his head to his shoulder. “Don't cry. It's okay.”

He couldn't help it. He couldn't. Not when it felt like Eijiro had taken everything tangled and heavy in his heart. Not when Eijiro gave him a place to rest all his doubts. All the stupid shit going on in his head.

“Hey, is this what you've been so off about lately?” 

He nodded, letting his tears dirty Eijiro’s t-shirt.

Eijiro placed kiss after kiss on his head, “Yesterday probably didn't make you feel any better, huh?”

“No.”

“I'm sorry. And I am sorry. I’m not taking it back.”

Katsuki chuckled, “You bastard.”

“Just let it all out for me, okay? I'm here, love.”

He let his tears fall free and heavy, soaking Eijiro’s t-shirt with all his fears, his worries, his love. So much of it, he felt like he was drowning him in it.

He hadn’t really cried about this. Not fully. Not with everything he was feeling. So, he let himself. He let his sobs rock out of his chest. He let his pain fall on Eijiro. He let Eijiro soothe him with his sweet words. The touch of his hands. The warmth of his kisses. 

And it felt so good to cry. It felt so good to sob and practically scream and let it all out on the person he loves. 

“It's okay, Kats. I'm here for you, okay? I'm always here for you. Whatever you’re fighting with, I’ll help you through it, okay?”

Eijiro kept whispering how much he loves him. How much he cares about him. How he was there, always there. He held Eijiro so close, his legs around his back. He knew he was being clingy and dumb and emotional, but Eijiro didn’t seem to mind. Not with the way he somehow pulled him closer, not with the way he kept whispering such sweet things he didn’t deserve to hear. 

“Hey, wanna lay down with me?” 

Katsuki nodded, Eijiro leading them to lay down, not letting go of him. 

“Do you wanna take a nap? My head kinda hurts. And it's cold outside.” 

“Okay,’ He croaked, his sobs devolving into shakes. 

“Take a breath. A big one, okay?” 

He listened, breathing in and out and in and out as Eijiro placed the blanket over them. 

“Do you want some water? Wanna wash your face?” 

Katsuki shook his head, “I’m good. I just want to do this.” 

“Okay. Just let me know, okay?” Eijiro gave him a kiss, tangling their legs together. 

“We’re gonna take a nap and then we’re gonna plan this shit, okay?” 

Eijiro laughed, “Sounds like a plan. But maybe lunch first?” 

Katsuki rolled his eyes, “Okay, lunch first, meat moron. And then we plan this shit.” 

“Okay. I love you.” Eijiro said. 

“I love you more.” 

“Nah, not possible.”

He decided to let Eijiro believe that, finally closing his eyes and resting his head on Eijiro’s chest. 

⋆ ⭑ ⋆

Eijiro gave his hand a squeeze, “Hey, everyone is in the common room for movie night.” 

It was already the end of the day, and they were standing in the common room kitchen, cleaning up their dinner. He tried not to think about their plan, how they were gonna wait till they knew almost everyone would be in the common room for the night. They always had movie nights on Fridays. Katsuki would almost never join, but today he was. Just for a little bit. 

He tried not to think about it because he knew he would fucking chicken out and Eijiro would be sweet and let him. But he needs to do this. He needs to stop hiding and he needs to stop being scared. 

“We’re gonna be okay, you know? It’s just them. And you said Denks and Sero and Todoroki and Mido know, right?” 

“Yeah.” 

“So, it's gonna be okay. And I’m here for you afterwards.” 

He gave Eijiro a hug, his boyfriend hugging him back firmly. He kissed his lips, a quick peck that was all the motivation he needed. 

“Alright. Fuck it. Let’s do this.” 

Eijiro smiled, holding his fist out, “Let’s do this, babe.” He touched his knuckles to Eijiro’s, rolling his eyes. His boyfriend was such a dork. 

They walked out of the common room hand in hand, and Katsuki was already annoyed by the amount of obnoxious laughter and the sheer volume of their conversations. 

He saw a few of his classmates were missing, but that was okay. As long as almost everyone was there, especially Mina, everyone would find out. And, as long as he was the one doing the telling, he was okay with that. 

But still, his stomach flip flopped as he walked closer, heading towards the front with Eijiro by his side. He swallowed the static, told the heart beating out of its chest to literally fuck off, and took another sigh. 

“You good, Tsuki?” Eijiro whispered. 

“I’m good.” 

“Okay, I got you, babe. Okay?” 

“Okay.” 

No one really paid attention to them at the front of the room, their eyes glued to the big TV, Denki already half asleep on Shinso. Mina and Ochako giggling about some shit. Momo and Jiro lost in their own world as always. Sero and Todoroki practically draped on top of each other on one of the sofas. Izuku waving at his phone screen—saying bye to that plane idiot from Otheon. 

“Hey, Blasty! Hey, Ei! Joining us for movie night?” Denki said above the chatter, giving them a smile. 

“Hey, Denks! And ah—kinda? Katsuki and I kinda needed to talk to everybody about something.” 

He wanted to get mad at Eijiro for jumping the gun, but how the hell else were they gonna start? 

“Oh! Okay? What's up?” Denki asked. And hell, he already knew, didn’t he? Going by that dumb smile. 

Denki reached over to give Sero a nudge and soon, all eyes were on them. 

Fuck. Alright. Here goes fucking nothing. 

He grasped Eijiro’s hand tighter, and he was sure he was hurting him just a little. Though he held his hand just as tight.

Through the sea of eyes, Katsuki decided to focus on just Denki's. 

“Everyone listen the hell up,” he said, hoping the gulp he took wasn't obvious. “Kirishima is my boyfriend. And if you have any fucking problem with that, I could frankly give less than a crap.”

He knew that was complete bullshit, but whatever.

“And if any of you give me or Eijiro any shit about this? You don't even want to know what the hell is in store for you. So. Whatever. Eijiro is my damn boyfriend so deal with it however you want.”

He paused then, “I'm also demi or whatever. Not that you morons know what that means. And not like you need to anyway. Or is it any of your damn business. And don't ask me any stupid questions. The internet is a fucking thing.” Fuck. What in the hell was he even saying? He sounded like an idiot. He was just babbling like Izuku at this point. 

He knew his hands were shaking, the movement so clear in his throat, his stomach. He couldn't look anywhere but Denki's eyes, and the dumb idiot was tearing up, his lips twitching into a smile. And he couldn't handle it, he couldn't handle how quiet everyone was. He couldn't look at anyone else but Denki. He couldn't feel anything else but Eijiro’s reassuring hand in his. 

He hoped Eijiro wouldn't mind as he pulled him away from everyone, leading him away from the common room and to the elevators. 

He was shaking and he couldn't stop. He thought telling everyone would stop the feelings. That he'd feel this big weight off his shoulders and that every stupid shit that had been plaguing him would just disappear. So why does he feel even worse? Why does he want to rip out his lungs so they'd stop hurting with every cold shaky breath. And god dammit! Can he just fucking explode his tear ducts?! Shouldn't they be out of tears at this point? And holy fucking hell! Why isn't this elevator opening!? 

He knew Eijiro was talking to him. Saying some sweet encouraging thing that would make him feel better, but his ears refused to listen. It was like the clouds had come back, hanging around his shoulders. He knew Eijiro was kissing him. He could feel the warmth of his lips on his head. All he wanted to do was go away from all this shit and wrap himself up in a blanket and Eijiro and disappear. 

“Blasty?” He heard through the fog of it all. And still, Eijiro’s hand was firmly in his. He decided to focus on that, taking breath after breath until the world finally came back. 

He turned to Denki, and of course he was crying now. This was the last thing he needed to see. 

“Bakugo, you just left. Are you okay, my man?”

His words still felt shaky in his throat, and he didn't know what the hell possessed him, but he let Denki bring him into a half hug, his hand linked to Eijiro.

He felt Eijiro let go, and that was the give for Denki to hug him fully, strong and bone crushing. He took a deep breath now, steadying, his heart calming back to normal. 

“Aw man, Katsuki. You can't just leave like that. You worried me” He sniffed. “I promise no one is saying dumb stuff.” 

Well, that was a nice reassurance, but he wasn’t gonna give Denki the satisfaction. He was already letting himself get hugged and he didn’t need to add anymore fire to the flame. Though the dumbass did give nice hugs. No wonder Eijiro and Sero were always all up on him. He hugged him so firmly, like he was trying to keep him from floating. And, at this point, he kind of felt like he was. Above somewhere and looking down at himself being dumb and emotional. 

Denki held him that much tighter, “I know you probably don't want to hear this, and feel free to explode me and all that, but I'm so proud of you, man. I'm so happy for you.”

And with that, the tears broke out again, silent and quick. He could see them falling on Denki’s t-shirt, hear his small hiccups from crying so damn much. Denki was rightly freaking the fuck out. He doesn’t think anyone has ever seen him cry besides Eijiro and his parents. He never let anyone see him cry and now he was crying and telling everyone he was in love with Eijiro and letting Denki hug him. What the hell was wrong with him?

“Aw, hey! It's okay! Oh no, I'm sorry. I know I shouldn't have said that! I'm sorry. I'm sorry, Blasty.” Denki kept blabbering over himself, rubbing his hands up and down his back. “You're all good, Blasty! Still all badass and hardcore and all that. Don't worry. I think all that just made you even more badass!”

“Oh my—shut the fuck up, Sparky."

He finally let go of him, having enough of all this, and pushed him out of their embrace.

“Alright, alright. Deserved!” Denki grinned.

He scoffed, sniffing and wiping away his tears with the back of his hand. He can't believe Denki’s stupid shit distracted him into feeling a little more okay.

“Hey. I'm happy for you two. It's about time! I don't know how much longer I could've dealt with Ei’s whining.”

“You're one to talk.”

He felt Eijiro’s hand on the small of his back, “Yeah, Denks, you're one to talk.”

Denki shook his head, “I take it back, I can't handle you two doubling up on me.” He smiled, reaching forward to give his arm a squeeze.

“That was really cool, Bakugo. And I didn't know you were demi! Shinso is demi, too!”

Katsuki was taken back by that, “He is?” 

Sparky nodded, “Yeah! Maybe you two can talk about all that. Shinso always feels like he’s by himself about all this stuff.” 

“I’m not gonna talk about shit.” He rolled his eyes. Like hell if he was gonna talk to Sparky’s stupid boyfriend about all his feelings in some sappy heart to heart. 

“Okay, I guess I used up my Blasty meter today.” Denki joked. 

Fucking hell, this stupid little idiot. 

“Literally fuck off, Dunce Face.” 

“Man, you are always running me off from somewhere.” 

“Cause you’re always in my damn business.” 

“Ah, I’ll give you that, Blasty.” Denki laughed, “Well, I’ll leave you two alone then to your love bird stuff.” He grinned, obviously deciding he wanted to get exploded in the face as he reached forward to ruffle his hair. 

Before he could say anything back, Denki turned the corner, leaving back to the common room. 

He turned to Eijiro then, realizing that he was stupid and had never pressed the elevator button. 

Then, Eijiro smiled at him, that pretty Eijiro smile that made everything better. 

“I love you, Katsuki.” He said. 

He smiled back at him, or tried his best to as he said, “I love you more, Ei.” 

Eijiro’s grin grew even larger and mischievous as he said, “Hey Katsuki, truth or dare?” 

He scoffed, “Seriously?” 

His stupid boyfriend nodded and he rolled his eyes, “Dare.”

“I knew it!” He smirked, “I dare you to race up the stairs with me.” 

He didn’t give Eijiro a chance to get a head start as he tugged at his hand and ran to the stairwell, laughter leaving his throat as Eijiro shouted in surprise. They ran and ran and ran, up the first, the second, the third, up to their floor, Eijiro laughing along beside him. They paused before they ran again to their dorms, both fighting to get into Eijiro’s door first. 

“Hey! This is my dorm, Blasty Boy!” 

“Tough shit.” He snorted. 

“I got here first!” Eijiro argued, grinning and elbowing him out of the way as he tried to twist the knob open. 

“Bullshit. You got here after me.” 

“Like a second!” 

“So you fucking admit it!”

“No! You’re just sneaky!” 

“Nah, just smarter.” 

Eijiro started laughing again, full and loud and carefree. He couldn’t help but laugh either, both of them still stupidly fighting over the door until Eijiro put his weight against it, both of them toppling to the ground in the now open door way. 

“Woah!” Eijiro shouted, grabbing him and taking the brunt of the fall as his boyfriend rolled him on top of his body. 

“Holy shit, you’re such a moron. I could've hurt you.” 

“Ah, I got my hardening.” Eijiro winked.  

They were both silent for a second before the laughter burst out of them both, Katsuki ignoring the pain that was already pounding at his face. He felt tears springing in his eyes, and he looked down at Eijiro who was tearing up all the same. 

He paused to take a deep breath, tucking a strand of Eijiro’s hair behind his ear as he bent up, kissing him and kissing him and kissing him. God. He’d do anything to keep that smile on Eijiro’s face. He’d do anything to keep kissing him whenever he wanted. He’d do anything to be able to say, 

“I love you, Ei.” 

“I love you more, Katsuki.” 

And that was the reason, wasn’t it? The reason for everything. The reason he wanted to better himself. The reason he was already bettering himself.