Archive of Our Own

Nothing prepared Izuku Midoriya to fall in love with Katsuki Bakugo, even in the craziest situations the duo will face. However, fate decided otherwise when the two shadows naively followed each other in those new adventures, starting with a simple question.

"Are you alright ?" The freckled boy asked with concern, realizing the fall was probably more painful than it seemed.

The greenette had noticed this face before, living in the same neighborhood since their booth had an advantage when recognizing people in this town. Katsuki Bakugo was his neighbor, living a few meters away from his house, but still accepting to hang out after school in the park since they introduced each other in their early days. Their moms being best friends didn't make things easier for the blond, who had the impression of being forced into this friendship, but he admired the determination of the freckled boy.

When some children decided to go against Katsuki, mistreating him and planning to avenge what they interpreted as an insult, Izuku Midoriya was the only one defending his best friend. His feelings were genuine since the first day, but he refused to let the others talk shit about the most inspiring person in the neighborhood! The most surprising thing about this crazy situation was how the other extras weren't afraid to be the ones hurting the freckled boy just because he was taking his friend's side.

That day, Katsuki shouted at them to leave and made a scene in public, publicly exposing his stubborn personality. The small boy didn't even know why he stood up to help the nerd, but he didn't miss his catch when one of his palms reached another child, leading the extra to cry. Until now, the blond always knew how powerful he was and often fell for the praise from the nerd, but the consequences of his actions would have repercussions on his parents' reputation.

The neighborhood was the kind of people to whisper about everyone's life, judging the purest soul who only minded their business. He was amazed to see how his parents didn't have a fight with one of the extras and how Inko was tolerating them. It will forever remain a mystery, at least. It was what crossed his mind when Mistuki and Masaru tried to find out why their son acted that way.

The only thing Katsuki remembered was the teary eyes of his only friend, observing how the sadness was replaced by awe. A warmth sensation filled his chest, leading him to constantly search for more of this strange gaze that would sign the beginning of his downfall in recent years. It took a long time to explain the situation to his parents, but the couple understood how their son was only protecting Izuku…

To forgive themselves, the couple decided to bring some help to Inko. The green-haired woman smiled, accepting their offer and leaving their children in the garden, knowing how those two needed to talk in private. Their parents' instincts were always right concerning their strong relationship, especially how they couldn't take each other's name away, even when their house was a few meters from each other.

Izuku and Katsuki have always had a strong relationship, but that afternoon made them realize they considered were considering as each other friends. They weren't strangers or annoying neighbors to spend time with…but this meaningless gesture of defending Izuku created the first bond of this longtime friendship. The silence echoed throughout the garden, the sun warmed their faces while stolen glances could be seen from afar, wondering which one would have enough strength to start the conversation.

"My old hag made me realize how this happened because of me," confessed the blond with a brittle voice. He was young and couldn't handle his emotions, picturing the tears fallings down Izuku's cheeks and the injuries remaining on his body due to these fuckers. "I shouldn't let them hit you in the first place, sorry…"

Izuku's eyes widened to his words. Don't get him wrong; he knew his best friend was amazing, but it caught him off guard when he saw that he was apologizing. It wasn't in his habit to take conscience of how stupid he was, wondering what changed his mind….However, he couldn't help but admire how impressive the other was. Katsuki noticed how the stars returned in the viridian eyes, giving him an impression of deja vu.

"Don't apologize, Kacchan !" Answered the freckled boy, letting his small hands hold the other tightly. His eyes were too focused on the crimson color, similar to the blush on his cheeks. “I should be the one apologizing for not being strong enough to defend you in front of the others."

"What are you saying, idiot ?" Objected the golden-haired child with a surprised expression on his face. There was nothing rational in facing Izuku and apologizing when Katsuki should be doing this, knowing how he let his friend be hurt and acting too late.

"Well, Kacchan is my best friend, and I hated that they said mean things about you! I thought you could count on me, but I was disappointed because I'm not a worthy friend and can't even protect you !" Tears fell on his cheeks, and both boys hoped no one in the neighborhood heard their conversation. It would be awkward to explain this to their parents when they returned…

"I don't need protection, but this doesn't mean you're a disappointment either," pointed out the golden-haired boy, catching the curiosity rising in the emerald eyes. "The only ones to blame here are the annoying extras, but you did your best by taking the hits for me, and this is cool."

"Kacchan…thinks I'm cool ?" One of these days, the blond promises himself to solve the mysteries behind the mesmerizing eyes that seem to hide so many mysteries on their own. It was rare to find someone able to break this shield like the nerd did by simply existing.

"Of course you are !" Explained Katsuki with a quick hit to the other's shoulder. Izuku's cheeks started to be colored with a hint of red, similar to the shade in his best friend's eyes. He didn't know why his heart was beating so fast, but it was something he’d understand when he became an adult like his mom. For the moment, he wanted to be focused on his best friend and how they couldn't wait to be heroes together!

As time passed, Izuku Midoriya had always been a vulnerable soul regarding affection. If he were the kind of person to expressly confess his love to his husband, covering him with tender gestures, it would be different for Katsuki. The blond had never been able to show affection with words, even when he tried they would make things worse so he decided to use something else….

—-

Years later,

It was a summer day when Izuku confessed to Katsuki after the training, remembering how easier it was back in the day. His skin still remembers the warmth of the callous hands cupping his cheeks and crimson mesmerizing eyes losing themselves in his. That day, Katsuki only answered with a smirk and shit the other down with a kiss, feeling how the scarred hands held him closer, too afraid to let this dream go.

It was the first time someone outside his mother offered him so much love. It even felt overwhelming for a soul like his, who'd been surprised by how easy it was to love Katsuki Bakugo. The world might describe him as stubborn and rude, but the smile in the corner of his lips had the charm to melt Izuku's heart. If the two started hanging out publicly, it have taken only a short time before asking for a date, the first of a long line.

Izuku still remembers how the sun was highlighting his shoulder, revealing his shaking hands. The sound of his heartbeat was louder than his own breath, and each second felt like hours. Millions of thoughts and questions crossed his mind, his anxiety rising at the idea of being stood up. Maybe it was too fast for this new relationship, taking its time like a flower growing up to shine with her brightest colors…Izuku will never know.

He caught the time on his phone, observing how the countdown was getting too close to their meeting agreement. At this moment of the day, the entire building had fallen into a calm atmosphere, the wind moving the leaves of the trees, taking away the whispers that caught the lost shadow in front of the training ground. The silence was killing the freckled man from the inside, unable to know if his anxiety or his sadness was taking control of his shaking body. Maybe he should probably cancel their date instead of humiliating himself…It wouldn't be a problem for both of them, right?

With a deep breath, his fingers opened the conversation he had previously had with his lover. He felt a smile appearing on the corner of his face at the sight of their excitement over the phone. They made things clear: It was something they both wanted, but Izuku was afraid of messing this up.

Trying to hide the tears in his eyes, Izuku controlled his shaking hands and wrote the beginning of the sentence…before hearing some footsteps catching his attention. He raised his head, and his heart stopped at the heartwarming sight. In front of him stood Katsuki Bakugo, with his casual golden spiky hair and crimson-addicting eyes. His clothes choices and a single flower in his hands highlighted his breathtaking gaze.

"Already bored, freckles ?" His voice echoed in the background, making the shorter man blush. This shade of red, coloring his cheeks and highlighting his freckles, was similar to the iris that haunted his dreams.

"Kacchan," his voice whispered, unsure if it was the right thing to say. At this moment, millions of questions crossed his mind, but he let one of them escape without realizing it. "Is this real ?"

The surprised expression on the blond's face turned softer at the realization. It wasn't in his nature to stand up to people, he wasn't an asshole. He might have a particular reputation, but Katsuki was a man of his word. Still, he could catch a hint of unshared tears in those emerald eyes. Knowing the nerd, he was probably freaking out a few minutes ago, but this time, he decided to stay to comfort the other ... .something his younger self would've never done in the past.

His callous hands ruffled the messy curls, forcing the smaller man to have his entire attention. It was probably when Katsuki fell in love again when those shining jade eyes looked at him like he was the center of his world. The blond ignored the slight blush on his cheeks and the sound of his heartbeat being louder than his thoughts.

"Would you still consider me a dream or a nightmare if that was the case? Tell me this pretty truth your lips are hiding from me," he whipped to Izuku's ears, smirking at the sudden heavy breath coming from the nerd. It wasn't a secret that Katsuki Bakugo had this mystery surrounding his name, something the entire school was ready to chase but something Izuku decided to use as a personal quest.

"Why are you asking stupid questions when you know the obvious answer, kacchan," explained the freckled man with a smile. If being loved felt this welling, he would love to make his future with someone you consider as his home.

"Maybe because I want to hear it from you," the fingers out a lost curl behind the nerd's ears, admiring the beauty of his face.

The world might be against them, but the two men would be stronger than stupid words on paper. At this moment, time stopped around their shadows, letting their soul heal by the other's presence and comforting warmth. If Izuku didn't answer, his eyes betrayed him by capturing this unforgettable feeling in his chest.

All his worries fade away when Katsuki Bakugou's eyes fall into his. The scarred hands hesitated to take the flower in the palm, letting the stronger ones guide him into this discovery. Izuku didn't know how he could've held his breath for so long, but it faded away when his fingers crossed the petals of this mystery. He only had a little knowledge of flower language and its meaning, but he would gladly welcome Katsuki as his teacher in this new dream.

"Hibiscus," his gentle voice pointed out. If someone heard him, none would recognize the casual Katsuki Bakugo, who used to shout at people out loud because they were in his way. "My old hag forced me to open a book to make the right choice for a first date, and this one particularly impacted me because it reminded me of you."

Oh.

Izuku didn't know if he was still breathing, but he refused to wake up from this fever dream. His fingers crossed the shade of pink coloring the petals, admiring their beauty.

"And…And what does it mean ?" He asked, afraid to break this moment.

Katsuki's face moved closer to his ears, making sure the wind couldn't take this confession away like the previous leaves from the trees. The freckled man's heart stopped, feeling how their boundaries were now an old memory.

"Delicate beauty," answered the gentle voice.

The emerald eyes widened. The shade of red appeared on his freckled cheeks, reaching his ears and feeling how the crimson eyes were still focused on him. The taller man gently cupped the nerd's skin, almost like he was afraid to break him, before facing the teary eyes. Izuku didn't know when he started to cry… maybe when he realized how he was happier than ever.

He had been chasing after his childhood figure his entire life to become the friend Katsuki always needed. Despite his selfish quest, he found something way better…because Katsuki Bakugo was his savior and a new dream. During the darkest night, when his lips called his name due to the nightmares, the comforting presence would be here. The blond had never left him alone, but this affection was heartwarming.

"Kacchan," he mumbled with his hidden sobs before putting his head on the blond's shoulders.

His hands held the flower preciously while he found his lover's back and made sure never to let him go. The tip of his curls reached the blond's chin, making him smirk before hugging his boyfriend and gently caressing his back. The two men stayed in this comfortable position for a few minutes, feeling each other's warmth before stepping back. The callous fingers wiped Izuku's tears, admiring how prettier he was with this genuine smile.

This was only the beginning of an endless love from Katsuki Bakugo.

——

After graduation, the two childhood friends decided to live together as roommates. They couldn't be financially stable at the moment, especially since opening their agency was harder than they had expected.

Some sacrifices were necessary if their relationship remained intact and flourishing more than in the first days. Against their will, the couple had to face different shifts, giving them less time to see each other. One of Izuku's biggest fears was to see his boyfriend's love fading away due to the distance, but Katsuki always knew how to reassure him.

It was written on the paper that they didn't need to talk to share their mutual love and devotion. Sometimes, they took time for themselves and their relationship, went on dates, and lived their youth with the illusion of hope. It might only last a few hours, but Izuku always cherished the moments when Katsuki's arms were wrapped around his waist, and his head rested against his neck.

When the blond's night patrol finished, Izuku's one would start.

He hated patrolling alone because his days were often tiresome without his lover by his side. The freckled man realized how much he missed the silly comments and tips his childhood friend often gave to improve. The sound of the street covered his thoughts, forcing him to smile and take pictures with the youngest fans. He couldn't let the world know about his sadness when he was leaving their apartment, but he could pretend for the cameras that this life was something he wanted.

"Are you Hero Deku ?" An unfamiliar voice asked, catching his attention. The freckled man glanced at the stranger standing under his eyes, holding a paper with a bothered expression.

"Yes, it's me. What happened ?" It wasn't the first time someone had asked him his identity; most of the time, it was for unexpected missions. It would usually be kids calling his name for help, but something was odd about this man.

"You need to sign this paper and take this thing. Someone else has already paid for you, but I need the confirmation." It was noticeable that this stranger had no time to face the hesitation in Izuku's eyes. Heroes or not, he still had other deliveries to do! It caught the hero off guard, but his hands signed the order form with his name on it and let this worker go.

He decided to check the box's content in a more private place, away from the public gaze. Many questions reached his mind, wondering who it could be at such a late hour in the afternoon. His fingers opened the box, only to find a bouquet of jasmine flowers in protective packaging and a card with familiar writing.

There was no doubt about the person who paid for this bouquet, but the realization melted Izuku's heart. He didn't know how he could share this same amount of love with his lover, knowing how Katsuki's actions were more meaningful than any of the promises they made until now. His hands grabbed the card, ruffling the paper and feeling how it was scented with his favorite perfume.

/"You looked like shit this morning, so I decided to surprise you. I can't see your face right now, but I bet you're making this smile, the one you always have when you feel genuinely happy…the same one that made me fall in love with you. I asked for the best protection for this shit, and I hope the extra that delivered you this package didn't ruin it." - Katsuki Bakugo./

The freckled man didn't know when his face started to hurt him due to the geniuîe expression appearing on his face. His hands held the paper card closer, wishing to hug his lover. He couldn't help but feel how this happiness embraced his soul, especially when the second card appeared under his eyes.

/"Jasmine: the delicate blooms and floral scent symbolize luck, so you better handle this mission, nerd." - Katsuki Bakugo /

It might be stupid, but the two men often communicate through meaningful actions. It could be surprises or sometimes a few messages on the table, making the other smile at their content. It was something naive, but the two men always knew they'd return home safely from their shifts. It was the price to pay for this new life, but together, they were stronger than ever.

——-

Sometimes, the rainy days hit harder than a slap in the face, where everything you create falls apart with words that will follow you to your deathbed. The time might forge the wrong memories, erasing all the happiness by the doubts and salty tears on this precious skin the lovers used to cherish. The entire empire you've built with bricks has a chance to fall apart and lead you to say bitter lies residing in your heart.

No one was perfect, especially Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo.

The wonder duo naturally make mistakes, but it would be nothing compared to the biggest fight they've ever had since the beginning of their relationship. Their previous laugh and stolen glances faded away as soon as the shout of their voices echoed in the living room, waking up the inhabitant of the building. In the euphoria of the moment, their hands acted without thinking, pushing the other on the wall, holding their shirt with a tight grab, and reading pain in their eyes that used to shine brighter than any midnight sky. The love and promises they shared in this apartment were torn apart by fate, forcing the couple to face the darkest part of their personality, admitting how those feelings residing in their chest were a hint that this fairy tale had to end.

The two men were too scared to mention this topic, even if the fights became more recurrent and the bitterness in each of their actions ended up hurting their significant other in the process. Don't get them wrong, Izuku and Katsuki sincerely loved each other more than anything, but this love turned out to be intoxicating, leading each other to face the darkest sides of this sweet fairy tale. The lines they wrote at the beginning were erased by the curses they would now bring on the other's names, mixed with unbearable feelings occupying their hearts and minds.

The two childhood friends knew they needed to talk, but Katsuki started this no-return fight by showing his jealousy. If this gesture can be considered as something affectionate, it turned out to be to his disadvantage when anger and insecurities created a toxic mix in his soul, letting him think that the nerd needed someone better than him, someone, able to give him a better life than the one they were tolerating. In any case, this represents the bright future they predicted, and even the unknown couldn't be able to reassure them. Their dates ended up being meeting at the hospital with constant worries for each other, tears replaced the previous smiles, and sweet nicknames were replaced with curses they threw at each other like a weapon.

This apartment was known for its welcoming atmosphere, full of love, but it turned out to be a complete battlefield where Izuku and Katsuki were the rivals fighting to find out which one was right. The hardest part was how the distance due to their job ended up being the reason for their silent conversation, mixed with the overthinking and countless nights sleeping in an empty bed without any news of each other.

This precious relationship they tried to protect became the reason for their downfall. Their love for each other was too strong to be ignored, which should be seen as a quality, but it led to endless fights and another breakdown. The hardest part in this situation was how Izuku and Katsuki still love each other, begging the other to stay after each conflict because they knew how unbearable life might be without their partner. The other endured despite the anxiety in his chest, but this time, Katsuki went too far, and the tears falling down the viridian's eyes made him realize how he might have dealt the final blow.

"Did you think I would let you curse my name again for your selfish wish, Katsuki ?" Izuku answered with a broken voice, knowing how he was saying the first things crossing his mind.

He couldn't help but feel betrayed by the other's words, bringing him anger and bitterness in this person he used to consider as his second half. Someone who sincerely cares about you wouldn't say such horrible things, but Izuku's heart begged him to stay…to give him a second chance because things would improve.

The callous hands let go of the shirt, watching the cold silence in the room. The freckled man's face became colder, making a bitter laugh as he wiped his tears. He couldn't believe the man he loved dared to say such a thing, especially when he knew how all of this bullshit was false. The media tends to trick the number one hero's reputation into being in a cheating affair or creating more drama about his love life, but this was only the result of Katsuki's request.

The shorter man had already sacrificed many things to survive in this relationship, even if the idea of considering their long-term relationship as a secret was bothering him. However, he knew their situation would be harder if the media decided to look into their private life and careers, which was the price to pay with their chosen path. Even if their situation was complex, the words resonated in his mind, breaking his heart even more as he looked into the broken crimson eyes.

/"You're always complaining about us being in a public drama, but don't forget how you started this. I only accepted this agreement because it could make you happy, but the truth is that I can't always handle all these allegations. You don't seem to realize how the one suffering in this situation is me because the world is seeing me as a fuckboy when they'll never know! This stupid crisis is only the result of the consequences of your actions, Katsuki." Explained the freckled man, crossing his arms against his chest and glaring coldly at the other. This time, he had enough of keeping these thoughts to himself and decided to express them, even if they were hard to hear.

"Fucking fine, if you suddenly feel the need to speak out loud the secrets you've kept to yourself the entire time, spill your truths because it's now or never. If you're so happy with him, leave this shitty apartment and leave me behind because I don't need you. You're just a pain in my ass, and living without you would be easier than facing your stupid lips full of lies." The blond objected louder, ensuring the entire building knew about their argument and how dangerous it could be if they threw hands. /

The greenette wasn't naive. 

After knowing his childhood friend since their birth and all his flaws, spilling words without meaning them was one of his habits, but this time, it differed from their past fights. Years ago, the Wonder Duo did its best to solve this issue, which often led to many misunderstandings. 

Still, it always returned stronger, especially at the worst timing. They couple everything they wanted to be happy, and it fell apart when this venom left his boyfriend's mouth…. At this moment, the crimson eyes widened, realizing nothing could do to take those curses back.

"Shit," he mumbled to himself, sensing how the uncomfortable feeling in his chest became too heavy to ignore. He needed to do something to fix this situation, to let his reason be replaced by the sincere feelings in his chest every time the other was in the room. This might be the hardest fight of his life, but Izuku was worth it. "Dek-Izuku, I'm-"

"Stop with your bullshit," shouted the freckled man, breaking the previous silence. He was a patient man and was aware of his limits, but he couldn't control his feelings anymore, knowing how painful this conversation was. It doesn't make sense the Wonder duo had their perfect life planned, so…when did they fall apart? "You've tricked me with your false promises, but sometimes leaving sounds better than staying in this illusion. We can't save a relationship doomed to failure, and I'll give you the space you need and have everyone in my bed, but this will be our last goodbye, Katsuki Bakugo."

This time, Katsuki couldn't fight back. He was forced to realize how he didn't even try to defend his case, realizing how he messed up. If only he could reverse time, he would've erased all his mistakes and saved this relationship. It was too late, and he was obligated to face the consequences of his actions.

"I was seeing a future for us," confessed Izuku with a broken glance, wiping his last tears. "I was ready to sacrifice so many things for you because I loved you in every way a human can possibly cherish someone. You didn't seem to share the same vision as me, and I think this won't be necessary anymore."

His hands threw the box out of his pocket, throwing it on the couch. With wide eyes, the blond realized how he had ruined the most important relationship in his life, the one that could've led him to a new chapter in their lives. If the freckled man was too tired to fight back and give a second chance to this man he had forgiven more than once, he could let go of this wedding ring.

That night, the apartment was awkwardly silent as Izuku prepared his bags. The taller man didn't even try to bother his ex-boyfriend, knowing they needed to take some time to heal from this fight. None expected how heartbreaking it would be, especially when they always thought their love was meant to last for a decade…but it led to their downfall.

The taller man was forced to face the consequences of his selfish wish, catching up on the hopeful promises he left behind with his jealousy crisis. He didn't mean any of the venom he previously confessed and never thought about that once, but he was forced to face the consequences of his actions. 

Katsuki’s eyes were too occupied to stare at the bow standing on the couch, the one that was supposed to be defined as his “Happy ever after”...but his future fell apart by his fault. He wanted to disappear, knowing there was no chance to save their relationship after all this, and their paths were forced to separate against their will.

A few minutes later, the freckled man's shadow left the bedroom with his bags, ready to go. Both men hated how those sweet promises became a pool of regrets. Maybe they weren't meant to be together, but this pain might only be temporary until they find the right path…even if it was with someone else.

"And don't try to apologize with flowers this time, this won’t work…not anymore."

It was the last thing Izuku Midoriya said before closing the door of this apartment that used to make him feel at home. It took a few minutes, forced to feel this dead silence, to let the tears fall down his cheeks as Katsuki's sobs echoed in the room. 

This time, no one would be there to comfort him in his misery, knowing he put his own grave by letting go of the most important person in his life.

——--

5 years later,

The freckled man can recall the moment when he broke his shielder, once the sound of the door echoed in the cold corridor while welcoming the tears. 

Until now, he had always played the strong persona in public to the point where this illusion unconsciously became a habit in his apartment. He remembers when their nights were filled with lost glances and hesitant touch before warming each other's hands up. Those days now belonged to a precious past the two men missed, catching up on how they had fallen apart months ago without realizing it…

The sad truth was that this conversation was necessary for their relationship, but none planned to end this so abruptly. The hardest part was how Izuku's heart begged him to stay at the doorstep and return, apologizing for what he said and being welcomed with comfortable arms, but he couldn't. After all, those words made him understand how staying in this situation would be nothing more than an endless circle of insecurities and hurting each other.

This love used to be their strength, but it led them to bring the other down against their will. It was hard to admit it, but the wonder duo was over, leaving Izuku and Kacchan behind in this place that recalled a past that would forever haunt them. The unknown was drowning him every single day, forcing the freckled man to take a break and see a therapist. 

It took him years, but he healed and motivated himself to find a new job and a landscape. His goal was to escape from this town that already knew too much about him and his past, constantly acting like pressure on his shoulder, and be able to break time.

He was thankful for living with his mom, who listened to his journey until this breaking point. Inko agreed to let him stay as long as he wanted in her house, promising to be by his side if he needed someone to talk to. The freckled man only answered with a smile, remembering how he confessed everything to his mother before Katsuki became his best friend. Unfortunately, it's gonna be difficult to leave behind a past like theirs, but the shorter man needed to take care of himself.

Leaving Japan had been a sudden turn of events, but it was the best he could do.

Izuku Midoriya wanted to be someone new, writing another chapter of his life afar from this burden that represented his past life and the ghost of his childhood friend. If his friends were surprised by the news, they congratulated him on his new job and wished him good luck. 

The greenette considered himself lucky to have such a supportive friend in each step of this new life, but he was grateful for all the love his mother gave through this adventure. Some days, he can still recall the last goodbye followed by a hug he shared with his mother, promising he'll return during the holidays. His childhood friend was the only person who didn't know about this sudden decision. After all, why should he enter into contact with someone who refused to have a proper conversation with him for years? 

He judged himself mature enough to not be desperate to be the stupid toy his childhood friend used when he was bored. The freckled man suffered enough in the past and refused to be the one sending the text to share the news when Katsuki hadn't shown any sign of life or interest in him since their break up.

Call him selfish, but Izuku Midoriya somewhat decided to put himself first, even with a frame of his past, rather than be the idiot holding back in the past and wasting this unique chance life gave him. He needed something new, unusual, and full of novelty…and the US was the perfect place to be known as "Deku."

—---

Maybe Izuku underestimates his ability to adapt to an entirely new country.

The first time his footsteps reached the new floor that was supposed to be full of hope, he realized he was alone. It shouldn't be scary, but he was ready to do anything to have a hand to hold and someone reassuring him about this huge step in his life. However, he already made hold of the healing process by changing air.

The first time Izuku saw his name appear on the board was when the media mentioned this sudden shadow coming out of nowhere, saving the day. This title made him smile, remembering the old days in his hometown when his career started. This first publicity was a good beginning, letting the streets whisper about him before making his proof and being known for the hero he was, repeating history but saving himself in the process.

It took him years to finally make the rank, reliving his past success. The US highlighted that they recognized the potential in this new figure of hope since the beginning, even if the freckled man had to contradict their words. It took him more than one visit to the hospital and near-death experiences to face the first praise coming from the popular media, but he ended up reaching his goal. Izuku Midoriya was finally free from his past and able to live without thinking twice about the consequences of his actions.

Once he got used to their new habits, it felt comfortable to start again. Don't get him wrong; he had a hard time figuring those things out at first, but he was grateful for the support of his friends and his mom, who texted him and called him occasionally. He had never really been alone in this journey, but he was proud of the path he had achieved until now, which is another victory to add to the list.

However, he caught himself thinking about his childhood friend on the darkest nights when the world was asleep. He was stuck in this illusion of hope he was trying to provide without putting aside the pain in his chest when he pictured Katsuki living his life from afar. After all, he had the right to be worried, knowing the stubborn and hasty personality of the blond, but to his surprise, Dynamight decided to make himself discreet.

Sometimes, his name and face appeared on the television during a few switches, reliving old feelings. Izuku chose not to focus on this impression of deja vu for too long, refusing to put aside everything he worked for…He simply hoped Katsuki was doing better since their paths separated.

—-

"-Japan still recalls the last time Pro Hero Deku made a public apparition in these streets, brightening the day with his smile and saving innocents. The source we found refused to tell more about the origin of this decision, but the entire country was surprised to find our beloved hero living on the other side of the world! Yes, you heard well, Deku is currently located in the US, deciding to start over and erase his presence in this town that already misses him. We wish him the best and hope to see his face in our streets someday." The reporters said with a smile, staring at the camera before the channel changed the topic.

The blond remembered when this news caught his attention, leaving him pale with a shaking body, unable to move or sit straight on the couch. It took him a few minutes, which seemed endless, to realize the extra point, forcing him to do his research and find out how it was the truth. His heart stopped beating for a few seconds, processing the news and understanding that nothing could be a nightmare.

Without thinking twice, the blond punched at the screen and ignored the loud sound of the television falling on the floor. There were glasses everywhere in the living room, but Katsuki didn't care…because he was stuck. Until now, the blond was aware that the two of them needed to take their distance for the best, but the hardest part was how the nerd didn't even prevent him from this stupid decision! If he had known earlier, maybe he would've tried his best to let the freckled man stay and have his pardon, but Deku was out of reach now.

Tears fell his cheeks, and his vision became blurry, but it was nothing compared to the pain rising in his chest. For once, the blond was glad no one was around the building at this hour because they would hear the devastating scream escaping from the hero's lips, calling an unreachable name. Don't get him wrong, Katsuki was conscious about how it was time to move on, but this news replayed in his mind like a knife in his back.

Izuku refused to tell him about moving on to the US. Izuku decided to act selfishly and pretend their friendship never happened, even with the good movies that comforted the blond's nightmare. The freckled man he had known since his childhood was gone, replaced by this shitty illusion of the nerd being happy when something was off…but only the blond was able to recall this detail on the other's face.

What hurt him the most was how the nerd's friends had to call him, they even texted to get news from each other! It would be too stupid to be interested in Izuku's life, especially now the shorter man has moved out and started his life without him. At least those lies were enough to cover the arch sensation in his chest, accepting the tears when the night welcomed his pain. He was Dynamight, succeeded in the most robust fights, and was the number one hero in Japan, so why did it feel wrong to be alive?

The only thing Katsuki needed was to have Izuku by his side. He remembers his laugh, bright smile, mesmerizing eyes, and tender expression to melt his heart. How a strong man ended up being sobbing in his life like a shitty teenager after his first breakup? He used to be stronger than that, but some thoughts occupied his nights, forcing him to curse the name of an invisible ghost that didn't even exist yet.

The blond was picturing his childhood friend with someone else, holding hands and confessing the untold truth Kastuki never had the strength to say. He visualizes those two shadows laughing together in the darkness, and this unknown stranger able to bring more happiness to this vulnerable soul, Izuku. Don't get him wrong, he was aware of how he had his chance and wasted it in the worst way possible, being haunted by those words. He wished he could change the past to erase their existence and change their heartbreaking conversation with kisses, apologizing until the morning came and spilled out the mistakes he made until now.

It was the right thing to do if he was facing the freckled man, but it was too late to change the past. He needed to accept how it was his new life from now on, forced to watch the love of his life belonging to someone else, someone able to make him happier than Katsuki. Izuku being his first love didn't make things easier, holding back into this heavy past that followed him daily, he was walking in this street, facing the ghosts of his lost relationship.

While Izuku was reliving from afar, the blond was forced to love the freckled man until his last breath, knowing he would never be able to love him like his childhood friend did.

—-

Against his will, the number one hero was forced to admit that the only suitable decision to make was to give up on this stupid dream of meeting the man he was seeing in his dream at his doorstep. He hated to admit it, but after a few years of spending most of his tears in therapy to find the right to heal, he was forced to accept that moving on was the right thing to do.

His goal wasn't to chase Izuku…not anymore.

Living in his hometown made him sick, facing the same annoying question concerning his old partner and occupying his nights. From afar, he could hear the stars mocking him for ruining his own life to chase after a stupid illusion, leading him to make a decision catching him off guard. Without thinking twice and saving the money for this big trip, the blond decided to leave this country that recalled his darkest days to take some air….in France.

Don't get him wrong, he was aware that none of this was the right thing to do, especially with the number of notifications appearing on his phone when his surroundings realized what had happened. The last time someone caught him was at the airport was caught at the airport, taking a plane for an unknown destination and leaving his loved ones behind without any signs of life. It was the worst thing someone could do, knowing how he would be if the role were reversed, but he needed to be alone with his mind and ideas.

Never in his life had he expected to live an entire year in France, a place he had never thought of before. However, he was okay with discovering new landscapes and the unknown cities in this country, reserving many secrets he needed to find. Indeed, as crazy as it seemed, the blond decided to make an entire trip, based on traveling to every town and isolated village, to make his discoveries. Much to his surprise, Katsuki discovered many places he never suspected at first sight before being breathtaking by their beauty and realizing how he had temporarily forgotten about the reason for his presence there.

This was the first sign of healing he had been looking for the entire time, finding peace with himself.

—---

Returning to Japan after this amazing experience and discovery was more complicated than he expected. He realized he was the one worrying about his loved one for 365 days, including his parents, who texted him and attempted to call him. Still, Katsuki was determined by his decision to cut all contact with his past life.

During an entire year, Katsuki stayed away from the media, shitty reporters, and the news about his childhood friend. This decision might be hard to understand, but it was the best thing to do, giving him clear ideas about what he should do now. The man he was a year ago disappeared, sometimes holding onto some blurry of his past, but he was determined about what he wanted to do from now and the story he needed to write.

Katsuki Bakugo was enough and had always been. However, he was conscious about how his relationships with his family and friends might be broken or needed some time to reconnect like they used to do back in the day. The price to pay for this life-changing decision probably cost the trust of his surroundings.

The first people he contacted were his parents.

Imagine Mitsuki and Masaru's reaction when they saw the familiar figure of their son appearing on their doorstep on a spring afternoon. The only thing they remembered was this overwhelming sensation of emotions increasing in their chest, tearing up before hugging their son and begging for some explanation. Katsuki agreed to their request, spending the entire afternoon with his parents, pointing out how this trip made him discover more about himself than he expected. 

From afar, Mistuki and Masaru smiled, realizing their son was doing way better than the state he used to be after his breakup, comforting them in their instincts. They had always believed in their son since their first meeting, when the blond's cry echoed in the labor room today. They couldn't help but be prouder of the person they raised standing next to them.

The next people he wanted to face were his friends.

If this meeting with his parents was a bonding moment between them, things would get more touchy with his old classmates. It wasn't the first time a situation like this had happened since their high school years, remembering how those idiots used to worry about him for not answering their texts for a complete week. This time, the blond put the limit too far by expensing this simple week to an entire year, unconsciously accepting the potential rejection.

Katsuki Bakugo showed up at the agency the next day, pretending nothing happened. His shadow left Aizawa's desk with an incomplete field that needed proper verification concerning some villains. A smirk appeared on his face when he realized how most of this job used to be done by him back in the day, which was probably the only thing he could do perfectly after kicking villain's asses.

"I can't believe I left you extras for a year, and you're not even able to complete the task of filling out the folders correctly. At this point, I'm starting to think you're planning something against me," his voice echoed in the room before facing an awkward silence. The golden-haired man sighed, resting his back against the door and noticing how his classmate's face turned pale at his presence.

It took them a few seconds to transform this stunned expression into tears. His friends were the first to reach him without thinking twice and started asking many questions. It was clear how those idiots cared about his existence more than he expected, but it was heartwarming to see how they missed each other. Much to his surprise, his old classmates accepted his apologies. They understood the reason behind this choice, noticing how he was a changed man…for the better.

It crossed his mind more than once to visit the freckled man and share the news…before realizing that Izuku was out of reach and lived in the US. This idea was too stupid to even be real. Still, he decided to compensate with a visit to Inko's house, pretending he was doing alright at the idea of returning to his apartment for the first time since his trip.

—--

Katsuki had an impression of deja vu, but this situation made him smile.

His crimson eyes were focused on the television background noises, catching the moving frame and many interview people on this popular channel. His hands grabbed his phone, checking some notifications and waiting for an answer. Pinky texted him with a capital letter a few minutes ago, ordering him to switch to a specific channel without explaining what was so important.

From now on, Katsuki was stuck in a channel he didn't care about, waiting for something to happen in his lonely life. Things had been strange since he returned to the country, but he was glad to be supported by his loved ones and fans after his comeback. Some people and media were against letting the hero return to the rank after betraying his promises, but it wouldn't be the first time this happened…

His hands grabbed the remote control from the table beside him, making a heavy sigh when this mystery was getting too long for his nerves. He wanted to make sure the next time Pinky played with his patience, she'd regret it-

His eyes widened when he caught the familiar figure appearing on the screen. His heart missed a beat, holding his breath, and being mesmerized by the picture under his eyes. He was able to recognize those green and messy curls everywhere, especially with the freckles highlighted by the sun warming his skin. The blond didn't know the last time he held his breath for so long, but after 5 years of waiting, he met Izuku Midoriya again….even if it was behind a screen.

"-What an amazing day to celebrate your success in the rank, Hero Deku !" The reporter said this with a distinctive English accent, revealing how she wasn't from the US and made the replacement only on occasion. However, the blond ignored the woman's comments, being too focused on the expression appearing on the freckled man's face, noticing the slight blush coloring his skin.

"I should be the one thanking everyone who believes in me to reach this goal," answered the freckled man with a bright smile, glancing at the camera as if he was addressing himself to the spectator…and Katsuki himself. "It's not the first time I've reached this specific step in the rank, but I always admire how people take their time to support a stranger who came out of nowhere. The reason for my presence here belongs to my past and a specific person, but I found myself on this journey and wish the same for everyone watching this."

"You have such a humble heart. We wish you the best for the next years and your projects, Hero Deku, and congratulations on your place beside Nihghtfire !" the reporter added before the cameras turned to her expression, switching the topic. 

However, the only detail that mattered to the blond standing afar from this unexpected reunion was the bags under Izuku's eyes and how he was faking some of his expression. It was detailed that only someone as close as Katsuki could distinguish, even in a crowd with billions of extras. This gaze was odd, almost like the nerd was hiding something…Don't get him wrong, he was sincerely happy for this place after his efforts; at least, that was what his words expressed to the public.

Katsuki sighed, resting his back against the couch with a stupid smoke drawing itself on his lips. He hated how his worries faded away the moment his childhood friend's face appeared on the screen, almost like living in this apartment was forcing him to face the ghost of a past lover he was unable to forget. No matter how hard, Izuku still haunted a part of the blond's mind, and he decided to stay where he used to share their first love confession and kiss on the same couch where he was standing.

At this moment, Katsuki realized how his love for Izuku Midoriya was timeless, even if they weren’t meant to be together in this lifetime. That day, Katsuki sent a last bouquet to his childhood friend for the first time since their break up.  He had seen many television channels praising his success in the US, and it might be a good thing to support him from afar, even if this meant being rejected…

——

Izuku didn't know the last time he got enough rest, switching between the interview and the missions, his life had been overwhelming. Earlier that day, some reports tried to know more about this mysterious past he left behind, being too curious about something so personal. Against his will, he had to admit to himself how the last mission had killed his legs, especially with how the villains here were harder than the ones he had in Japan.

Today, he was another version of himself with new goals to achieve, especially when an entire country was giving him the recognition he deserved, but at what price?

Maybe he got his freedom, but some of his nights were filled with the ghost of his past. Some golden hair still haunts his memories, repeating the same venom that broke the bond the two men had. The nightmares wouldn't make things easier, especially when no one knew the real reason for moving away suddenly from his previous home. The heroes in the US weren't trying to force uncomfortable questions compared to the media, and none of his relationships would revive the flame in his chest, the one Katsuki kept awake the entire time.

Despite how much he tried to ignore his needs, the name of his childhood friend was the only one that left his lips when he was alone in the room or having an intimate moment with a one-night stand. None of his new relationships worked, and they all described how Izuku was unconsciously looking for something or someone else. The only thing to do if he wanted to move on was to let the memories of Katsuki go away and rebuild himself.

Talking about his childhood friend…it's been a while since the media mentioned his name.

Sometimes, he followed the news concerning his hometown, observing how the public had been moving on with the new generation, almost like Dynamight had never existed in this country. It was unfair to erase someone so easily, especially after all the sacrifices the blond had made to reach the number two rank back in the day. A sad smile appeared on his freckled cheeks at the memories of this person he considered his home. The freckled man wished his childhood friend was doing alright…At least it'll be one of them.

The sudden sound of the ringing bell caught his attention, cutting him from his dream. With a groan of pain, he left the couch and opened the door, facing another delivery. It wouldn't be a surprise if fans or his agency sent him gifts…After all, he was used to it. With a smile, the freckled man nodded, and signed the paper, wishing a good day to this employee he had seen more than once at his door.

The sun reflected through the living room curtain, highlighting the mystery box on the table. His hands covered the scissors on the kitchen counter when he noticed the word "fragile" on the cardboard, concluding that the content might be important, attracting his curiosity. After a quick cut on the tape that blocked the opening, the first hint reached his nose, bringing him back to the old days in a specific period he knew too well. To make his assumption valid, or at least believe them, he decided to check by himself....and his eyes widened at the content.

His heart missed a beat when he caught the Daffodils. If his admirers gave him flowers occasionally, none sent him a complete bouquet with handwriting he could recognize everywhere. Only one person was able to make such a beautiful gift with this perfume the freckled man missed, reminding him of his past life, the one he left behind.

With shaking hands, he grabbed the gift, gently ruffling the Daffodils. He didn't know how, but their simple presence made him giggle. It's been a while since he expressed such a genuine smile, but it was nothing compared to the card resting beside the gift.

/"There are a lot of questions I need to ask, but I wanted to congrats you for chasing new dreams. I hope the extras are treating you better than they used to do in Japan. I saw your interview, and you did well, but you need to cover the bags under your eyes before someone asks what occupies your nights. I know I shouldn't write this because you probably moved on, but a friend can't support another friend from afar "?- Katsuki Bakugo ./

Izuku was speechless. This surprise was unexpected, but a part of him was relieved to have a sign of life from his childhood friend. Indeed, the craziest ideas about Katsuki being missing or, even worse…dead reached his mind more than once. This event often leads him to panic, regretting not telling the news earlier and missing his chance to fix this relationship he searched for in his one-night stands. 

The freckled man would never forgive himself for being the reason for his childhood friend's death or facing a grave without saying a last goodbye. However, his heart melted at the realization that Katsuki was still alive and took his time to enter in contact with him after their break up, something Izuku needed more than anything in the last months.

Another card was beside the previous one, catching his curiosity and smiling at the content. His childhood friend always knew how to steal someone's heart, even when this person was trying his best to find inner peace with his old desire.

/"Daffodils: Cheery yellow blooms symbolize rebirth, resilience, and new life. Therefore, Daffodils are the perfect bloom for congratulating someone who's starting a new chapter in life or overcoming a challenge."/

Oh.

The freckled man didn't know when his vision started to get blurry, but he welcomed the tears falling down his cheeks. It's been a long time since he didn't let himself be vulnerable, especially with this new reputation he was creating on the other side of the world. No matter how much he tried to change, he knew his heart and soul belonged to Japan, where his loved ones rested.

Izuku wasn't a monster trying to pretend nothing happened, but he was tired of pretending. He needed his mom by his side to celebrate his victory, his friends to hang out with, and his childhood friend to see the stupid smirk on his face. It was a risk, but this bouquet of Daffodils opened his eyes to the situation. Izuku lived in an illusion the entire time, pretending to act like his past never existed when he couldn't escape it.

He needed to see his family and his friends again. He missed his childhood friend more than he ever imagine, no matter how hard he tried to deny those feelings in his chest. One gift from the blond was able to bring him this flame in his chest, the one his past relationships had never been able to give….At this moment, Izuku knew the right choice to make, even if this could sound controversial.

——

Katsuki wasn't the type to easily hang out with people, especially since his relationship with his friends started to degrade after the sudden trip to France. They've been quiet about how this betrayal hurt their feelings but supported this broken soul. If Mina and Kirishima tried to change their mind, Sero and Kaminari would not let their friend have another downfall.

It might be stupid, but Katsuki wasn't alone in this journey, even if this meant healing within the next few years. It took him a long time to understand how Izuku would never be his again, but he still held on to the hope of apologizing. Maybe they wouldn't be a couple again, but at least keep this friendship they cherished in high school….

Tonight was one of those days when the blond refused to hang out and have a party with the extras. He felt uncomfortable with someone else in his bed, warming his night when they would never be Izuku. It was stupid to hold on to this hope to see the freckled man ring his door and beg him to stay in his life again. With a sigh, he put the keys on his apartment door and noticed something on the floor. This wasn’t a surprise to find a gift on the floor, knowing how his neighbor used to share their food with him when the golden-haired man was having a hard time. After all, they've been here to help him in his depression after the breakup, and this idea occupied his mind while the callous hands grabbed the box and entered the apartment.

He took his shoes off and put his clothes on the coat rack. His hands turned the light on, ignoring the calls and texts from his friends. He wanted to be alone tonight, knowing how, 5 years ago, the love of his life left this apartment with tears in his eyes. The blond wondered where the nerd was and if he was still the same person he met at the river. Some people might change with time, but at least one of them was living on and was happier…

His hands opened the box, only to feel how heart was missing a few hearts at the familiar handwriting on the card. He could recognize it everywhere because the small heart on the "I" always belonged to Izuku Midoriya. It was an old habit the nerd never erased, but something the blond considered cute when they were together. At this moment, many questions reached his mind, but his eyes widened at the flowers of Lavender and white roses.

/"I've done some research too about the meaning of flowers, and a part of me wished I'd discovered all of them by your gifts…but this time, I decided to thank you with something we both understand. The moment you're receiving this gift, I'm already on the plane, returning to Japan, so I was wondering if you still had time to talk with an old friend ?" - Izuku Midoriya./

His crimson eyes landed on the second card.

/"Lavender and white roses represent second chances…because I wish we could start again." - Izuku Midoriya /

For the first time in his life, Katsuki had an answer to his bouquet…and this realization made him smile. The nerd was so stupid if he thought the blond would refuse such an offer, especially when he'd been waiting for this moment for the past 5 years. Maybe there was a hope for them to build something again, even if it's just as friends…it'll be better than complete strangers.

—-

The last time Izuku's footsteps reached this airport was years ago when he was heartbroken and avoiding this reality, he wanted to escape. 

Today, the old hero returned from the ghost, catching all the attention despite his poor attempts to cover his identity. Some whispers were heard, his name rising from the dead, and people wondered how this country would treat him now, knowing he was hated for his betrayal in the US. This decision was taken overnight, ignoring the consequences, but he didn't care because he knew he needed to return home.

After all this time, the realization hits him like a slap: Home wasn't a place but a person. It would be someone able to comfort all your worries and make you feel safe despite the darkness consuming your soul. 

His endless nights were haunted by the nightmares, fearing to see a dead body and learning how it was too late to apologize. Despite the two men's fight, they needed to admit how they messed up. Lost in their illusion of happiness and fever dream, they ignored the red flags under their eyes, pushing them to their downfall when they expected it the most. When the words started to be shouted, waking up the entire building, it was the moment they knew….

Looking at it now, Katsuki was a part of his soul, the only one able to complete his wounds. It had always been his childhood friend since the beginning, but this realization was too hard to accept when he was still searching for his unsolved questions. They waited for the right moments to appear in his mind, revealing how life could be simple if he made the right choices. Staying by Katsuki's side had always been something obvious to his heart, but the bouquet and the card confirmed his doubts….It was a sign of a new beginning.

The first person aware of the surprise was his ex. The freckled man still had time to explain the reason for his sudden presence here, but he wasted enough time. He had already spent the last five years searching in an endless circle for the answers to his questions without realizing how they were closer than he expected.

A smile appeared on the corner of his lips, his fingers typing on the screen and watching the three dots in the conversation. If he wanted to keep the hour of arrival secret to have a bigger surprise and impact, he needed to lie and say how the plane had to stop in a different country, closer to Japan.  From here, the freckled man already pictured the disappointed expression on his childhood friend's face at the news, knowing how the two men were excited to see each other after so many years.

—--

From Kacchan :

Are you sure you can't take another flight?

You'll be there tomorrow at this rhythm and the traffic.

From Nerd :

I'll try my best, I promise…but why do you miss me?

From Kacchan :

Stop saying bullshit, or I'll block you

From Deku :

Why are you lying to yourself… I'm sorry about that. 

I wish things were easier.

From Kacchan :

Stop apologizing for things you can't control, nerd

Do whatever you want, but text me when you're here

If you wonder, the address remained the same, except the doormat took the dust.

From Nerd :

Holding on to old habits, I see.

I'll never understand how you can read in my mind, even if we’re so far from each other.

What kind of superpower is this?

—---

"Where should I drive you ?" The man asked with a curious glance.

He didn't comment on whether he recognized the pro hero in his car. He was just like the others, with many questions on his lips, but he couldn't make the hero feel like hell again, especially when it was a question of time before the media made his name big news.

Izuku raised his head, observing the surroundings, and noticed that a crowd was forming around the taxi. The driver's eyes made it obvious that he also understood the importance of the situation before it escalated. With a sigh, he turned his phone off, observing how the unread notifications appeared on his lock screen.

"Osawa 13th Avenue, Mustafu South, please," he answered, knowing they needed to leave as soon as possible to avoid the crowd.

The driver nodded and started to leave the public airport, where loud noises filled the background. It was a small amount of peace, but it was enough to change his mind and realize what he was doing. Izuku must be crazy to leave everything behind overnight just to join someone with whom he lost touch without telling his loved ones the news, but it feels right. 

The last decisions he made in the past five years had been unsure. None felt this welcoming as this one, as the drawings of the city were transformed like lines on a canvas of paint, the one he was going to paint in this new journey. The end of the path will be unsure, but Katsuki is worth fighting, even if this means facing a potential rejection.

—--

Katsuki stared at his screen for too long, hoping the “delivered” option would fade away, reminding him of old unhealthy days.

Maybe the nerd was trying to take the closest flight to reach Japan, but the whole deal seemed crazy to him. For the first time in years, the blond felt like a teenager having his first relationship, wondering how he would react and if this excitement would be mutual. The flowers he sent to Izuku earlier were a risk to discuss. Still, the answers were worth it, especially when their meaning was so impactful.

They were different people now with other stories to share, but their bond made it impossible to ignore this connection. It started when Katsuki texted his childhood friend first, letting the fluent conversation take the lead and feeling like nothing happened between them. It was sweet to see how the past years hadn't changed anything in their interaction, especially after their last memory of each other.

If Izuku had tried to rebuild himself, Katsuki disappeared from the landscape.

It had never been easy to deal with the ghost of his past, visiting his nightmares and leading him to therapy. It was a small but important step in his life to understand how he should've calmed the fight before it was too late, but now the story was writing itself…

Katsuki had no idea when the freckled man might potentially arrive in the country, but he wanted to welcome him. It was nothing for the others, no less than a gesture of politeness, but it remained to be a good start in the friendship they'll try to rebuild. Keeping this secret for himself was an easy thing when he was followed by loneliness for years, but he couldn't wait to let this apartment win its color again. When was the last time someone entered and highlighted the room with a laugh or smile? Too long to count.

This illusion often led him to the craziest scenarios, but he surprised himself, shaking. He hated being vulnerable around someone else, but it was different when it concerned Izuku. The nerd had been here since the beginning, facing the darkest sides of his soul, he loved him despite the hints and made him feel loved, something Katsuki didn't deserve. 

After ruining the last thing he cared about, his world fell apart, and the blond had nothing to hold on to, leading him to his downfall, but he would rise. This time, the blond learned from his mistakes, saving this relationship that had haunted his mind since this door closed.

Katsuki had often thought about what he needed to say first…should he apologize or ask how the nerd was doing? Maybe he should let the other speak first instead of rushing the conversation. He felt how he first needed to apologize for what he said that day, but he knew it would never be enough to regain this trust he lost years ago…For now, the blond will take what the other has to offer and make it his own, cherishing it.

—--

The sound of his heartbeat was too loud to be ignored.

At this moment, his entire mind started to get lost in the worst scenarios possible, but he didn't make all this path to step back. Behind this door stood the person his heart had been looking for for five years and the only one able to make him feel alive. After all, they left an unresolved fight in this apartment years ago, maybe it was time to figure out the end of this conversation they should've had before their words fell apart.

His scarred hands were holding the bouquet of pink camellia mixed with the salvia blue; the one he bought him paid more in his taxi ride. Like an illumination, the idea had taken him in the middle of the way, forcing him to seek the meaning of two specific flowers that had his attention. 

It was a risk to take, but he has no regret leaving the florist with what he considered as his unspoken confessions.

After all, if some people consider words symbols of love, Katsuki and Izuku have to disagree. The past years of their relationship had proven more than once how words can only be reassurance, but actions mattered more than they may seem, especially when the other's eyes would shine at the new bouquet in their living room. This simple scene used to be a part of their happy ending, the one they'd been writing and currently living if the fight didn't separate them.

Despite the distance, Izuku still heard traffic coming from outside to rub his ears, bringing him back to reality. He couldn't go back when the rest of his story stood behind this door. With a sudden inspiration and motivation, his scarred hands knocked on the door, the one he had slammed years ago, vowing never to return. 

Time proved its worth because today, he seemed ready to accept Katsuki in his life and finish this conversation. The silence was dying for the young man who held the flowers in his hand, being exhausted to ruin the surprise, but after a second attempt, the sound of a familiar voice could be heard from afar.

Izuku felt it was too late to step back, realizing how insane the whole idea was. His heart was so loud that it covered the blond's voice as his footsteps reached the entrance door. The sudden sound of an open door caught the freckled man's attention, forcing him to meet the taller figure, who only groaned.

"Oi, how many times did I tell you kids not to—" His face widened at the sight. "Deku."

Under his eyes weren't standing the brats of one of his neighborhoods but his childhood friend, the same one who owned his heart and his soul. Many thoughts crossed his mind, his face becoming a complete surprise, and he wondered if he wasn't dreaming…The lack of sleep had complicated his last nights, so having the illusion of something his soul wished for might explain the consequence. It was strange to wipe out this nickname that belonged to the past, the same one with different meanings for the same person.

Izuku didn't answer. His heart missed a beat when his eyes met with the crimson ones. They were shining with this hope in this iris, the same one the blond had when they met for their first date back in the day when they were innocent. 

A shade of red colored his freckled cheeks, making his hands hold the bouquet tighter and realizing how there was still hope in the blond's voice. It was an emotion he recognized too well because he'd faced it in the darkest moments years ago when they were naive…but time stopped when his lips let escape the name he called in his dream more than once.

"Kacchan," his voice softened, putting his hands behind his neck and trying not to stare too much into this breathtaking sight. They still had a lot of things to figure out, but for the moment, the only thing that mattered was the sound of their heartbeat beating simultaneously, almost as if they were connected by the same bond that kept them obsessed with each other the entire time. "I hope I'm not bothering you. I thought you weren't against a surprise visit, given that this was part of our plan."

This doesn't make any sense…Why was the nerd standing here when he was supposed to be on a flight? He read with his own eyes how the original plane had issues, forcing them to land until the problem was solved then why did he go before his eyes like a fever dream with his stupid smile on his face?

"But you said you had an issue with your plane. Unless you have a superpower I'm not aware of, there's no way you can stand here when you're supposed to be on the other way of the world." He knew it was stupid, but he needed to figure out why he was there and why it was so early. If he had known, he would've cleaned his apartment instead of welcoming the other in a mess like this one. The freckled man seemed to laugh at the situation, almost like it was something funny, before offering the flowers, hoping this would be enough to be forgiven for those lies.

"I lied, but I couldn't wait any longer…I missed you," he confessed gently, observing how the crimson eyes widened at the sight. Izuku knew how to read the other's expression, knowing him like an open book, but this one was surprisingly softer. His previous questions faded away at the sight of the bouquet, reminding him of when the roles would be reversed, and he offered the flowers. "Pink camellia and salvia blue…I know it sounds cheesy, and you can reject them, but I thought they were more powerful than words."

/ "Pink camellia: Longing for you"/

/"Salvia blue: I think of you"/

Katsuki Bakugo wasn't easily impressed by people, but he was too stunned to speak this time. 

He remembers how he used to discover the mysteries around classic things he considered flowers before turning them into a whole language of love. He still remembers the first time the freckled man returned home smiling, hugging, and thanking him for the flowers, hoping this happiness to never end. If Katsuki couldn't express himself, he would let his heart speak for itself by choosing the specific flowers and their meaning. It had always surprised him how the freckled man was in awe after each gift, covering him with praise and realizing how he couldn't be happier than that.

When Izuku refused his apology, he realized it was impossible to get him back…it was until the same nerd showed up at his door with a stupid blush on his cheeks and the unexpected confession. He didn't know how to react, knowing it was the first time he faced his ex-boyfriend offering him flowers, reversing the roles. 

Still, despite the question crossing his mind, the blond let the freckled man enter the apartment, accepting the confession and knowing how things needed to heal by themselves now.

—-

The pink Carmelia and Savia blue bouquets were now residing in a glass vase, mixing with the multitude of bouquets, giving a semblance of life to this abandoned room. 

If time had proved its worth, the two young men had a precise memory of the turn of their meeting that day, between tears and smiles, confessions had been the center of their conversation. If the flaws were used to scare the theme, it became a strength as the conversation mentioned their past mistakes and regrets.

Katsuki remembered when he accepted the tears falling down his cheeks, explaining how the last five years had been the worst of his life, regretting his words every day. Izuku's scarred hands cupped his cheeks, wiping his tears and making a genuine smile, the one able to melt the blond's heart.

"Kacchan, we've both made mistakes in this story, but I'm not here to repeat them…I'm here because I realized how much I missed my best friend when you were gone." He confessed, feeling all the blond's attention on him. "I missed you every day since I closed this door, and none could ever make me feel the way you did with your stupid smirk and mesmerizing eyes. I've been in love with you and still am to this day, but I don't want to pretend this fight never happened…That's why I thought about us staying friends and seeing how it goes, what do you think ?"

"Izuku, I'll do anything to make you stay, but are you sure you won't leave overnight? Because I don't know if I can handle it again…" The broken voice contained so many unshed tears, letting the freckled man know Katsuki suffered more than he pretended. This time, Izuku will be the shoulder to cry on, no matter how hard this new adventure will be…but they'll save each other like they always did.

"I promise I'm staying forever this time," answered Izuku with a smile, kissing the blond's forehead and letting his head find his chest. The scarred hands gently ruffled the blond's back, holding him delicately, too afraid to break the other. "I'm sorry for breaking your heart, but I sincerely care about you…more than you can imagine. I don't want to let you go, but now I have found my definition of happiness."

That day, the two men had a sleepless night for the first time in years since their childhood. It felt great to catch the lost time and pretend life hasn't been unfair to them because they deserve a second chance…and they were ready to cherish it. Months became years, but the two roommates considered each other’s best friends again, teasing each other and acting like the five years apart didn't separate them. It felt natural to stand by each other's side, sleeping on the other's shoulder and waking up with the other's hands around their waist.

As expected, Japan freaked out when the country discovered how the old number on hero Deku was back. His name started on every page, and the freckled man correctly explained to his mom and friends. It was touching to see how Izuku seemed happier when he returned home and how he was resting at his childhood friend's place, ignoring the gaze on everyone's faces, knowing something was going on between those two. The freckled man remembered this one conversation about the whole disappearance of Dynamight in the media and teared up when he realized how it led to the painful heartbreak.

Strangely, Izuku motivated Katsuki to return on stage, just like in the old times. Life gained more color as the wonder duo worked from afar to their return, supporting each other in this new step. Despite this endless support, some hidden were lost, and hands trying to reach for each other in the most vulnerable moment. Izuku and Katsuki knew in their soul how they were ready to be officially a couple again, but they would preferably take their time to make things right….

—--

Their naive souls never implied this situation, but it was too late to pretend nothing happened, not when this night changed the dynamic of this precious friendship they cherished. Don't get them wrong, the two roommates became the best friends they always needed, even having the sweet nickname of "timeless lovers" by the media, ignoring how it wasn't true.

A timeless love was supposed to be something inspirational, breathtaking, and mesmerizing, whether in the slightest gestures or meaningful words chosen during confession. Izuku and Katsuki couldn't describe themselves in this category, but highly admire how the person standing in their living room every morning when there was some renovation near their street was taking his coffee most innocently.

It only lasted a few seconds, where their heartbeat echoed in their ears as a sweet melody they mesmerized by heart with the years. Crimson eyes often met the viridian ones, losing themselves in their beauty and wondering which mystery hid this bright smile, highlighting the freckles on his cheeks. It was considered a universal truth to Katsuki's soul. Still, each day, his desire to be the center of Izuku's world resonated in his actions. Unconsciously, he started to take the teasing jokes leaving his childhood friend's lips, the hesitant move when their two figures resided on the couch, or even the way those emerald iris were losing into his soul.

He wanted to make Izuku proud, and he had always wanted to since they were brats in this tiny neighborhood. When the other children avoided the blond's stubborn personality, the green-haired boy accepted to be his friend, ignoring his reputation…Since that day, each action has been made to be the only name that leaves the freckled man's lips. The praise echoed like a constant reminder of his aim to win his heart, remembering how the wedding ring in his room was still mixed with the dust of a forgotten past.

However, things were different for Izuku Midoriya.

He surprised himself by getting used to this casual life, almost like they had unconsciously bonded their souls when their eyes met years ago. It was an indescribable phenomenon that kept them alive every day and led them to avoid the past mistakes that caused their downfall. The two men remained best friends, but the look on their faces betrayed all their intentions when they were alone in the room.

Reading into each other's soul like an open book had always been a kind of superpower, specifically belonging to them and their dynamic. It was written in their bones, projected in their failed attempts to hold the other's hands during a sleepover party…because, unconsciously, they were each other's home and saviors. It didn't take long to realize how this friendship Izuku cherished more than his own life became a romantic feeling and a sentiment of déjà vu. Falling in love with Katsuki Bakugo had always been easier than breathing. Still, he naturally drowned himself in this welcoming sensation spreading in his chest every time the crimson eyes lost into his.

This ethereal sentiment of being loved and cherished gave him the impression that the simple existence of that smirk could erase each of his worries. The same expression highlighted his darkest days and comforted his nightmares, knowing someone was waiting outside his door, ready to hear about their content. In the past years, the freckled man used to wake up in an empty room with the ghost of his past mocking him for his misery, but today, his darkest days were highlighted by the blond's existence.

It was a truth he denied for too long, returning his forbidden thoughts into another form, being the reason for his tears…the same one comforted at night by callous hands and delicate fingers. It became a common habit to reach his roommate's room, being welcomed by comforting arms and resting against the blond's chest. 

Katsuki was first surprised by this gesture, understanding how the two men needed boundaries in their second chances, but Izuku Midoriya was his biggest weakness. How was he supposed to reject the teary shadow knocking outside his door, having the impression of being a bother when he had never been one in the first place?

From afar, the sleeping figure of the green-haired man resting closer to his best friend's warmth could be defined as a romantic interpretation of two vulnerable souls searching for each other in their despair. A friend would never caress someone's back that way, especially with this slow movement, which can calm the fast heartbeat on the other's chest. The scarred hands had never held someone this close in his despair, wishing never to wake up from this comforting dream and slowly losing himself in the praise leaving the blond's lips.

Katsuki Bakugo had always been a complex mystery to solve, but it was Izuku's favorite.

Every new revelation concerning the most hidden detail about his childhood friend made him realize how amazing the blond was. It might probably been those delicate discoveries that failed in their previous relationship, disappearing under those unshed tears and emptiness in their chest. Today, the two men were able to figure out how being close to each other was enough to solve all their insecurities…especially during that sleepless night when the blond mesmerized each expression on his best friend's face.

—-

It happened one night…one mistake that signed the no return in their relationship.

It was well-known that Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo had been inseparable since the other's return, the source of numerous rumors about their dynamic, but the wonder duo always ignored it. It became a complete problem when, in the euphoria of the moment with the alcohol in their blood, the freckled man forgot how he wasn't the only one in this room. The loud background music resonated in his ears, sensing how his scarred hands held his glass tighter, ready to break it at the sight under his eyes.

The freckled had never been jealous, but approaching Dynamight with the most perverted intention was playing with his nerves. He tried to reassure himself by remembering how he was closest to his childhood friend, especially after the bonding moments they'd spent together…but he couldn't control himself. He hated how this anger and sentiment of post-event filled his veins when his eyes glanced at their two shadows standing from afar, entering into each other's games.

The man's fingers caressed the strong arms, praising his scars and whispering a few things to the blond's ears, who only answered with a smirk. The more Izuku was watching this scene, the more he was about to break his image of a sweet hero to kick the stranger's ass and teach him a good lesson. If there was one thing the world wasn't ready for, it was not to play with Deku's nerves…

This time, his body moved on its own to stop this interaction before it was too late.

There was no way this stranger coming out of nowhere would steal what belonged to him. Katsuki Bakugo was the most impressive person this planet had ever created, and he needed to thank Mistuki for that. The emerald eyes caught how his roommate's figure started to leave the counter before realizing a dangerous aura was threatening his life. The crimson eyes caught the presence of the freckled man, sharing the darkest expression he had ever seen while cutting the previous distance between the extra and him.

"Hero Deku, I didn't know you could be this possessive over your partner," the man said with a smirk, playing with the freckled man's nerves. "You don't mind if I take him away from you for a moment ?"

Oh, this man was about to regret his words in the next few minutes.

Drunk Izuku was probably scarier than the sober one because nothing could stop him from his determined actions, especially when Katsuki's heart was on the line. The scarred hands reached the callous one, intertwining theirs as a first hint of possessiveness before taking the following steps.

"You should stay at your place," threatened the shorter figure, sharing a dark glance with the stranger under his eyes, still thinking it was a game. "I would recommend you to find someone else unless you want to regret approaching what belongs to me."

"What's stopping me from going against your rules? Katsuki Bakugo doesn't belong to anyone," the man smirked, crossing his arms and thinking he had a good point.

If this fucker wanted to play, he'd face the consequences of his threats…In the following seconds, the scarred hands held the blond's together, his eyes meeting the crimson ones, almost like they understood this situation. The blond didn't fight back when he let the scarred hands around his waist, whispering something before leaving the room…under the stranger's eyes.

—-

The next thing Katsuki knew was how his back found the dirty walls of the corridor, revealing how the flashing bulbs and echoes of the background music faded the moment his eyes met the emerald ones. He didn't know what happened or even who initiated this sudden movement, but he welcomed the scarred hands around his waist, accepting the possessiveness in each of Izuku's touches.

Don't get him wrong, he remembered the moment he realized how this conversation was going and never intended to follow this extra. His entire plan was to give the impression of being interested in the other, wondering when the nerd would decide to act…and if the shorter figure took longer than he expected, the reward was worth it. Playing with Izuku's nerves and his jealousy had always been a dangerous game, but there was something forbidden in this situation. The hero who returned from Japan without any explanation could get caught making out with his partner in public due to his jealousy. It was undoubtedly a title people would buy due to their curiosity.

"Kacchan," the voice murmured in his ears, kissing the sensitive spot he had mesmerized by the heart through the years. His advantage with this second chance was that he already knew his childhood friends' weaknesses and decided to use them to his advantage in a moment like this. After all, only he was able to hear the heavy breath leaving Katsuki's lips when the freckled man kissed this sensitive spot and how the other closed his eyes to focus on the pleasure in his body.

"You've made quite a scene earlier, freckles," he answered between two breaths, catching how the scarred hands held his waist closer every time a voice echoed in the corridor. "Aren't you scared to see the news about you being unable to control your feelings? Are you this stupid for playing with fire and destroying everything you've built in the last months ?"

Izuku smiled, his free hands cupping his roommate's cheeks in tender movement. It seemed like he was getting sober enough to control the possessiveness in his touch, almost like he was hesitating between showing his love softly or roughly. There was no way someone else would steal those mesmerizing crimson eyes from him, especially the ones with the worst intentions. Katsuki Bakugo needed to be cherished and praised in every way, from the story of his scars to the way his shining eyes captured each desire on his face.

"Tasting forbidden had always been a dangerous game when your heart was on the line…, but I'm tired of pretending," he confessed, letting his lips meet the blond's neck and marking his skin with hickeys. He might regret his actions tomorrow, but the world needed to know how his heart belonged to Katsuki. "I need the world to see how you're making my scarlet cheeks prettier every time you're around, I feel the need to hear your voice saying my name out loud to feel how this desire is mutual."

Katsuki wasn't weak, but he put his shield down whenever his childhood friend was around. He welcomed the needy movements on his neck, mixing their heavy breath between praises and lust as the fire consumed their entire soul. The callous hands grabbed the freckled man's ass, hearing the other gasp at the touch before reversing the role. This time, Izuku's back found the cold walls, scarred hands losing themselves into the golden spiky hair and putting his legs around the other's waist.

"You don't need to ask because you already know my entire soul and heart belong to you," Katsuki said softly, his fingers cupping the freckled cheeks. "You have no idea how long I've been waiting to prove my love for you is endless, even if you find happiness in someone else's arms."

"Show me, Katsuki Bakugo," ordered the shorter man, his eyes losing themselves into the crimson ones and gently cupping the other's cheeks. "Give me an unforgettable show tonight."

Without thinking twice, the blond's body moved to reach the freckled man's lips, tasting them for the first time in years. At this moment, a sudden rise of possessiveness appeared in his chest, translating in each of his gestures from when he held Izuku's waist closer to when their tongue met. Everything was brutal, chaotic, and disorganized in this first kiss, but they knew they had already established the rules for tonight…

The scarred hands lost themselves in the blond's shoulder, holding them tighter before joining his spiky hair and deepening their kiss. As stupid as it sounds, the fire consuming their skin burned them, leaving unforgettable scars on their lips, ready to mark this moment in their soul. Izuku's mind started to remember how this stranger's hands touched his roommate's arms and the previous flirt between them, making him more desperate. 

His grab tightened, lips dancing after each other most chaotically for a fist kiss after their break up, but both men ignored it. The only thing that mattered was how the freckled man held his heavy breath, letting the callous hands meet the skin under his shirt and whine in the blond's ears.

It was hard to hold back his emotions, especially when they were too strong to be ignored. Izuku begged the taller figure to be touched, loved, and adored in every way possible, almost like he put aside their boundaries. Katsuki naturally accepted the offer, making his roommate's neck with visible hickeys and figuring out how the other started to get sleepy. In the euphoria of the moment, Izuku decided to share a last kiss with his roommate, this time more tender than the previous one, and whispered how much he missed this.

The blond sighed, kissing the freckled man's forehead and telling him how it was right. After all, maybe this night wouldn't end as planned, but they'll remember it in ten years with a laugh. With a delicate movement, the taller figure made sure his childhood friend was in a better position to get some rest while paying for their drinks and their two shadows, leaving the place with many questions crossing their minds.

Facing a sleepy Izuku in the car was a show coming from a fever dream, where the callous fingers were gently caressing the soft skin while the other was mumbling a few things in his fantasy world. It was something Katsuki had missed in the last five years: the impression of being the only one to calm his childhood friend and fall in love with him again. He always had a soft spot when sleeping. Izuku fell into his arms, resting his head over the delightful warmth of the blond's chest, realizing how he felt at home.

Their two shadows appeared in the building and disappeared as soon as possible when they entered their apartment. The empty place reminded the dark old days, which gave chills to the blond before turning his head and catching a slight movement with the messy green curls. The two of them will have a lot to explain tomorrow, but for now, Katsuki wants to enjoy this moment until the end, wondering if it'll become a part of his future later.

With a groan, he opened the nerd's bedroom and made enough place to install the sleeping figure. He had never entered this room before, insisting that the nerd needed his privacy, but it wasn't how he expected his first visit to this room to happen. Nothing ever made sense in their lives and organization. It wasn't surprising when their names were Izuku midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo.

With a gentle movement, he dropped the sleeping figure on the bed, removed the shoes, and changed him with the closest pajamas near his reach. He didn't have time to find the prettiest outfit, knowing the entire town was already asleep and the moon was watching each of their movement. The slight touch against his skin made the freckled man gasp, unconsciously searching for more and catching the blond off guard.

It happened in a few seconds, but the previous distance between them was removed, forcing their faces to be separated by a few centimeters. The scarred hands held onto the taller figure's waist, resting his head against his chest and smiling. Many questions reached the blond's head, wondering if he should leave the rest a little longer to ensure the nerd was all right, knowing this wasn't in his plan for tonight. This time, the role was revised, and he was stuck with a sleepy Izuku, refusing to leave his side with a genuine smile.

"You don't know what you're doing to me, nerd," he pointed out with a smirk, his hands playing with the messy curls and holding the figure closer. He knew he needed to leave tomorrow morning but could at least enjoy this bounding moment between them…

—--

A sudden groan echoed in the room, revealing the familiar shadow of the freckled man slightly waking up from his dream. He didn't know how or even why he had drunk so much the previous night, but the headache became worse each time he tried to calm down. With a sigh, he rested his head under the sheet, feeling the sun from the windows warming his back, and faced the empty side of the bed.

His eyes widened when he remembered last night's event.

Everything appeared under his eyes, from when he became jealous to the one where he felt the blond's heartbeat beside him. A scarlet color owned his cheeks, making him feel even hotter than the sensation of the sun burning his back, but it wasn't enough. At this moment, the shorter man wishes to disappear, change his name, and act as if nothing had happened, knowing it had been the craziest night of his life.

The precious boundaries he ensured with this second chance and friendship faded away the moment his emotions controlled his body, forcing him to do something he never thought possible in the past! Don't get him wrong, he fantasized many times about being this close to his childhood friend and breaking the forbidden…but was too afraid to break this dynamic between them.

After all, the last years had been the most important of his life when he returned to Japan to stay with his partner. They shared many good moments, including laughs and tears of happiness they used to put aside in the past. Every interaction between them became an unforgettable memory, but he never planned to repeat the history if his heart was screaming to be this lover he used to be.

/"Tasting forbidden had always been a dangerous game when your heart was on the line…but I'm tired of pretending,"/

His biggest flaw was to let his drunk self express all his forbidden thoughts, including the one he wanted to be buried in his grave. In a perfect world, he would've controlled his emotions and let his roommate return with this stranger, reminding his best friend who suffered from afar. Don't get him wrong, Izuku Midoriya was ready to fight for his loved ones and Katsuki's love, but it was unfair to force the other to love someone like him. He was full of flaws, led their previous relationship to downfall, and only brought pain in the other's life.

Katsuki Bakugo deserves someone's better.

Falling in love with a stranger would be way better than rediscovering the freckled man's flaws and how he was unable to keep his promises. He planned to keep his feelings aside until it was the right time to decide if he wanted to try again or find someone else…but he failed. Izuku was a bad influence on his childhood friend's life, a complete failure to himself and someone who would bring their relationship down again.

His vision blurred when he imagined another life where their path would've met in another circumstance. Maybe he would've crossed his childhood friend in the street 10 years after their break up, they would've caught up on life and seen how the other moved on. He was already picturing the sight of Katsuki holding someone's hands, kissing the stranger's body like he used to do in the most intimate part of their relationship, or even whispering how much he loved him, knowing those words were sincere. In their story, Izuku is a background character, forced to watch his lover fall for someone else when it is supposed to be him.

The freckled man didn't know a small chest like his was able to contain so much pain, especially with their history. He tried to deny his feelings for his childhood friends, ignoring how he also brought positivity into the other's life…But it was stronger than him. His fingers grabbed the sheet tighter, holding on to his tears, but let escape a sob at the thought of being alone against the world. The only thing he ever wanted was Katsuki's happiness, with or without him, but he was too selfish to keep the other by his side, even as a best friend or a lost memory.

"Oi, I came to check the sleeping beauty because you're starting to-" The voice suddenly cut herself in the room the moment the door opened, revealing the familiar figure of the blond.

His heart stopped when he realized the sound he heard from afar wasn't a mumble but an actual sob. His body moved on its own to reach the bed where the freckled man was standing, meeting his gaze with teary eyes. The callous hands caressed his back slowly, holding the shaking figure closer and realizing something was wrong. The scarred hands held him closer, putting his head into his chest as his sobs resonated in the room, reminding the blond how this used to be a sound haunting his darkest nights.

"Izuku, what happened ?" Katsuki asked, trying to control his worries, but many scenarios, including the worst ones, crossed his mind. Maybe the nerd was having a breakdown because he regretted his actions yesterday, and his roommate did something against his will. Shit, he knew he should've asked if the nature of their feelings were sincere yesterday instead of listening to his body !  "Please, answer me, you're scaring me…"

The freckled man remained silent, releasing his last tears against the familiar fabric of a shirt he recognized anywhere. He didn't realize until now how close they were to each other, especially in this compromising position where he needed to explain the real reason behind his sudden breakdown. His green curls moved from the previous warmth, catching the worried and preoccupied crimson eyes in his…leading him to guess how he should've controlled his emotions again.

"'Sorry," he whispered in his mumbled, deciding to lose himself in this temporary warmth by calming himself with the other’s heartbeat. This sound always worked as a comforting melody to his ears, almost like it was made for him. Those previous whispers caught the taller man's attention, who brought the shaking figure closer, afraid to let him go.

"You don't help your case if you keep mumbling to yourself, nerd," he explained with a teasing tone, trying to change the atmosphere but letting his callous hands interview with the scarred one. At this moment, none dared to speak, too afraid to break this bond between them and expose how their platonic feelings were just an excuse to hide their desire to be something more than friends.

"I'm sorry," expressed the freckled man louder, his fingers holding on to the black shirt. "I'm sorry for being a mess with my emotions, I'm sorry for being nothing but a bother in your life when you could've found someone way better than me. I'm sorry for being selfish and wanting you to my side from the beginning to the end because you're all I ever wanted, and I don't want anyone else to separate us…Please, don't fall in love with someone else when you're all I need."

Alight, it was a lot to unpack.

The more the freckled man confessed his fear, the more the shaking figure lost himself in those untold revelations he never shared with anyone, even himself. The taller man was too stunned to speak, which is probably shown in the hesitant movement in his gesture, but he stayed by Izuku's side until the end. However, he couldn't ignore how his heartbeat echoed in his ears, strong hands holding tighter onto the shaking figure beside him.

He hated how this scene felt like a deja vu, an echo of a traumatizing event in their lives. The blond promised never to face those heartbreaking tears again, especially when he wanted to bring happiness to his roommate's life. Sometimes, Katsuki wondered how their could've been their situation if he had expressed himself and his emotions correctly.

"Izuku," the gentle tone in the other's lips caught the greenette's attention, catching how the two men were too exhausted to hide their worries. The only thing they could do was to translate their emotions into movements, no matter if they were hesitant or delicate. "I don't know what led you to this stupid conclusion, but you'll never be a bother to me, especially when your existence simply saved me more than once."

Oh.

From all the expected answers to this chaotic situation, he never expected his roommate to confess something so meaningful, especially with the choice of his words. Katsuki Bakugo had always been a stubborn student but determined in his choices, even if this implies sacrificing himself to save the people that matter the most to him. Izuku's name had been written in the blond's journey since their eyes met, unconsciously seeling their fates by accident.

Yet, none refused to change the tale they were writing, even if this included the darkest time and wasted tears they had shed the previous years. Instead of fighting it, he accepted the earlier confession from his childhood friend, resting his head a little longer on his chest and falling for the warmth that kept him alive for so long.

"How am I supposed to fall in love with someone else when we've been chasing each other since our first meeting? I know there's another timeline where our paths never met, but I don't want to think about that because I need to realize how lucky I am to stand by your side today after all the shit you went through. Izuku Midoriya, you're the strongest person I've known and my biggest pride, even if I'm bad with words, I know I can proudly express to the world how my shitty roommate inspired me every day to be a better person."

The scarred hands grabbed the shirt tighter, wishing to face his tenderness until his last breath. At this moment, they felt at home being in each other's arms, falling for this mutual devotion they kept for too long…

"But…" His voice echoed in the room, moving his head to meet the crimson eyes. He authorized himself to lose in their beauty, melting at the sight when callous fingers cupped his cheeks in delicate movement, afraid to break him. "The last night-"

"The last night wasn't a mistake for me," he pointed out, realizing how he read into the nerd's mind. The freckled man was the kind of person to think they made a mistake naturally. Still, the blond was here to reassure him, especially when he needed to see this bright smile again. "The only thing I regret is not to ask earlier if you wanted this because you have the right to say no and choose the reason instead of the heart."

Izuku's face widened. He surprised himself, remembering the previous night's event, how the heat of their skin met in the most desperate and possessive way, leading them to spend the most important night of their lives. Don't get him wrong, the freckled man doesn't have any regrets about acting that way if this means being the center of Katsuki's world, but he couldn't deny how his body moved on its own in the euphoria of the moment.

"Kacchan," his voice softened, letting his fingers cupping the blond's cheeks. The tender movement caught the tale man's attention, this time facing the scarlet color owning the freckled cheeks and melting his heart. "I appreciate how careful you are, but I promise I don't regret anything that happened between us, even the most chaotic ones. I let my emotions speak for myself, being guided by my jealousy because I wanted to let the world know about us…Without wondering if you were alright with this idea."

"If you think I’m about to run away after the last night, you're wrong," the taller man pointed out with a smirk, putting his forehead against the smaller one and feeling the captivating eyes into his. "I know we still have a lot of issues to fix together, but I don't want you to think you're annoying me when I spend the last five years of my life in a constant hell. I hated the empty side of the bed, how I missed you more than I expected every day and dreamt about your laugh as a ghost in this cold apartment that lost all sign of life since you left this place."

At this moment, the freckled man caught a sudden smirk on the blond's face, almost like he had an idea to prove his argument. Reading into the crimson eyes had always been an easy game, but this time, Izuku was forced to face the unknown, unquestioningly trusting the comforting figure beside him. From here, he felt how the strong hands left his cheeks to find his waist, bringing him closer while their faces separated by a few centimeters. The flashback of the last night echoed in his mind, holding his breath when he started to close his eyes and lose himself in the delicate gesture that welcomed his desire.

Katsuki knew what he was doing but didn't fight black to show how much his words were. His lips reached the freckled man's ears, sensing the other's heavy breath against his skin, wishing they could stop time to mesmerize everything about this scene.

"Do you trust me, Izuku ?" His voice whispered gently, giving chills to the shorter figure beside him. He always enjoyed how their souls were made to bond together, from the moment they exchanged their first "hello" to this private interaction in an apartment 25 years later.

"Always," answered the freckled man without thinking twice, moving his head to expose his neck and feeling the desire of their last adventure. His feelings had been genuine since the beginning, even when he was trying to move on, only to find that Katsuki was the only one able to make him feel alive.

"Then close your eyes and follow my tricks," the blond ordered seductively, awakening a sudden fire in their chests. Both men were conscious of how forbidden this temptation was, but they needed to do it to show how much they loved and cared about each other with a meaningful gesture compared to any promises they had shared until now.

The shorter man nodded in answer, ready to give his entire soul to this mesmerizing feeling of love. It had always been addicting to fall for the unknown, especially when his childhood friend decided to stand by his side until the end, as they promised in their late-night confession. He let his body naturally move on its own, falling for the welcoming gesture and losing himself in what will become his life's most unforgettable love confession. This time, there were no flowers able to express this endless admiration, but the strength of their bond that connected the strongest souls in the most desperate moments.

Katsuki took his time to feel how this was mutual desire, something they both needed and not a drinking game like they used to have. His strong hands held the freckled man's body closer, feeling how their lips were now separated by a few centimeters before breaking the last limit he imposed on himself. The next thing Izuku knew was how the blond's lips shut him down in a delicate kiss, taking his time to realize how this was way better than the one they shared last night. He was still afraid to wake up from this crazy dream, too good to be accurate, but he decided to show how devoted he was to his lover.

He used to be the one who made the freckled man genuinely smile and laugh in this apartment, the one sharing his night with the prettiest soul he had ever seen, and he felt empty without this strength. Today, he was glad to face his childhood friend losing himself in their vulnerable moment, assuring him that this was a mutual desire. The scarred hands reached the blond's shoulder, holding them tighter before sitting on his lap, catching the other by surprise. This time, he introduced this gentle kiss, and both men started to be mesmerized by how this was the first kiss they should've had.

"Izuku," he whispered between two breaths, putting his forehead against the freckled man's and catching a slight smile on the other's face. “I can't promise you to be the most inspiring person in your life. I'll make mistakes and apologize for them most desperately, but I'm ready to take the world down if you ask me to."

"I never expected to hear our first love confession that way," the greenette chuckled, facing the mesmerizing crimson eyes and losing himself in this moment of happiness. Nothing assured them a bright future, but their story was worth fighting, especially if they had each other's hearts on the line. "But I don't mind you being mine…because it had always been you, Kacchan."

This time, the blond answered with another kiss, promising himself to bring the prettiest flowers in the following days. He expressed how their love had been timeless, even if death did them part.

—--

Falling in love with each other had always been more accessible than breathing. After all, the meaning of love changed through time, and the luckiest soul experienced it. Those confessions were simply translated into meaningful gestures, hanging out sessions with old friends, or jealousy crises in their case.

If each story was unique, Izuku and Katsuki agreed to share theirs with the world.

They wanted to let the entire world face how strong their bond and chemistry were, making everyone jealous about something the extras could never have. Call them selfish, but Katsuki Bakugo wasn't afraid to express to the media how he had never been this happier since his childhood friend returned from the US, a comment that spread on social media and let the viewer create their interpretation of those chosen words. However, if there was someone who knew exactly the reason for this public revelation… It was Izuku Midoriya.

Izuku Midoriya, who grew up in the same city with a few friends, could count on one hand before leaving everything behind for his own sake. The shorter man experienced more than anyone by putting himself down on the lights occasion, even if this is leaving the man you love behind without taking any news of his state. There were a lot of misunderstandings to solve, some thoughts to express, and new promises to create, but the freckled man decided to keep everything the same. He refused to rewrite the tale if this implied erasing the two roommates' chaotic love confession, the jealousy that forced them to break this boundary, or even the love language they exchanged between flowers.

Katsuki Bakugo always took his time to praise his boyfriend, letting him know how beautiful he was even when the sun started to rise in this town full of murmurs. His favorite color had been the unique shade of red coloring the freckled cheeks he mesmerized more than once. At the same time, his callous fingers tenderly caressed the soft skin that welcomed this gesture. The fear of not being enough was often erased when the emerald eyes met the crimson one, realizing they didn't need the world's approbation to live…knowing how they already got each other.

The two men slowly but surely learned how to love their partner a second time properly—the silent morning that used to haunt the blond's days was a radiant atmosphere where the scent of burning toast reached his nose. From afar, a shorter figure with messy curls and a black tee shirt way too big for him could be seen singing a song that ended up in his mind. Izuku's smile had always mesmerized him, but the taller man refused to pretend this sight didn't impact him. If he had the chance to, he wouldn’t hesitate to harass his boyfriend with endless kisses, from his cheeks to his neck, and hear the silly laugh escaping the other's lips. 

Being in love was scary, but Katsuki Bakugo felt at home when Izuku was around…Maybe it was the ending they were unconsciously writing, like an artist painting the most critical part of his career.

If Katsuki Bakugo were the painter, Izuku Midoriya would be his muse. The freckled man had always been impressive, but facing this bright and awed expression in those eyes every time his shadow entered the room left the hero speechless. Most of their morning ended the same way: The coffee and breakfast getting colder on the table behind them, the television representing background noises. At the same time, the two shadows rested against the couch. The messy curls can be seen from afar while his scarred hands rested behind the blond's neck, and their lips shared good morning kisses, almost like they had done this habit their entire life.

The black shirt with a white skull belonging to the blond always made this sight cuter, catching how the freckled man looked more adorable in his boyfriend's clothes. The sun rays often passed through the windows to heighten their two shadows, sharing a private moment in this tender routine they installed against their will. Under another angle, the view of the scene will be more explicit with Izuku sitting on Katsuki's lap, smiling and chuckling after a whisper the taller man confessed to the other's ears before letting the callous hands cup his rosy cheeks and put their forehead together. 

He accepted his fate if Izuku used to complain about how they always wasted precious minutes of their free time, remembering how their shifts were often hard to deal with. After all, the shorter man would rather spend the entire morning with his lover, whispering new promises and sharing kisses instead of being destroyed by the time he had never returned. The callous hands always lost themselves into the other's back, giving gentle movement before putting lost curls behind his boyfriend's ears, mesmerizing the breathtaking sight under his eyes. None know how they agreed to fall for this silly routine, but every morning was signed by this heartwarming scene and a delicate "I love you" leaving their lips.

When Katsuki Bakugo agreed to take the risk of contacting his lost friend, facing a potential rejection, he never knew he could reach this specific step of their relationship. 

Connecting with his childhood friend was already a miracle, a chance he didn't regret, and now he lived in constant happiness. Someday, the golden-haired man wanted to thank his lover's existence with meaningful actions, even if the stolen kisses and quick slap on his ass followed by mutual teasing would be a part of their routine. He realized that his entire life, he had been longing for this specific person…the one sleeping beside him during the darkest nights and comforting his insecurities.

He had never been a man of the world but wasn't hesitant to show his love most uniquely. Offering flowers had always been his way to express himself when this intense feeling in his chest was too strong to ignore, but it became clear now. Katsuki was ready to spend the rest of his life with the shorter man, cuddling his reassuring figure in his sleep. His fingers played with the green curls that ruffled his chin, his crimson eyes catching the scarred hands, and it appeared like a revelation: he needed to put a ring on his boyfriend.

Don't get him wrong, his memory liked to recall this fight and how it ended up being the reason for their break up…but it was different. Today, the two childhood friends agreed to take their time in accepting love in its entirety, even with the flaws that sometimes caused them a few misunderstandings. However, the two men learned from their lessons. They became stronger than ever, adapting quickly to this lifestyle they left behind years ago, usually filled with insecurities and tears. 

From now on, the only tears the blond wanted to see on his boyfriend's face would be happy tears…especially the ones he was supposed to keep for the altar.

A smirk drew itself on his face. He was losing himself in his daydream as he remembered how the precious box with this previous promise was still residing in his closet. Maybe it was time to take this precious thing away from the dust and let it shine to the world, knowing that everything needed to be perfect.

—-

It wasn't a secret that Katsuki Bakugo was ready to take the world down for his childhood friend. 

Everyone in their surroundings was aware of this statement from an early age, especially their parents, who saw the two vulnerable souls breaking each other's hearts and doing their best to find the past wounds. Izuku Midoriya didn't know since when he accepted this new reality awaiting him, remembering how tomorrow morning he would be welcomed by a soft kiss on his neck from his sleepy lover while feeling his strong hands holding him closer. If this lifestyle became something welcoming, he still considered his childhood friend as the definition of "home."

After all, Katsuki was the only person in the world able to understand him and his insecurities, find the right words and gestures to erase all his worries in the middle of the night, or even know how to praise the person sharing his life. The most surprising part was how he insisted on sending flowers to his partner, even when they were in different shifts on the other side of the town.

 The agency wasn't surprised when they got a specific order from Dynamight to give this bouquet to his hero's partner. The most heartwarming scene was the blush appearing on Izuku's cheeks every time the process repeated itself, almost like he was experiencing this affection for the first time.

His emerald eyes caught the tiny letter beside the stunning bouquet, making a genuine smile when he realized Dynamight was his other half, the one he had always been looking for. The choice of those words written on this paper and the detail put into the creation next to him were enough to comfort him in this happiness. He refused to see this euphoria leaving overnight as the couple did in the past, even if the media brought shame to their names and slight mistakes. However, none of their curses reached the couple's ears, and they were way too occupied to build their own future by each other's side.

Izuku realized how he had made the right choice: to trust his childhood friend again and give him another chance.

 He refused to imagine how things would've been different if he never returned to his hometown…Maybe he would've been sad until his last breath, being drawn by the regrets of not taking his chances when the occasion offered to him. Today, he was able to spend the rest of his life with his wonderful boyfriend and caring partner, which was something his younger self always wished to have.

This love was ethereal, but the affection the duo shared once they were alone against the world was stronger than any quarrels they had until now. They would take the world down for their partner and were each other's missing pieces. It wasn't a surprise if, one day, the freckled man returned home with the living room full of flowers, retracing their adventure from the moment they confessed to the breaking sight under his eyes. 

The only thing Izuku remembers is tearing up at the sight of his boyfriend, who has one knee on the floor and has the best smile he has ever seen. His emerald eyes recognized the ring, catching on how it was the same one he threw on the couch after their fight years ago. The confession resonated in his mind during the darkest days, but he didn't forget how his body moved on its own to reach his lover's chest. 

Without thinking twice and probably too overwhelmed by the news, the freckled man sealed his lips with the blond's, holding him closer and losing himself in this new reality…the one they were writing. Their past self would've probably killed to reach this happy ending, but the better version of themselves took their time to cherish each second as if it was the last.

"Yes," he whispered near his lover's ears, tears falling down his cheeks and letting the callous hands wipe them away in a gentle movement. "Yes ! Of course I want to marry you because you're all I ever wanted, kacchan. I thought you’d never ask."

"Idiot," answered the taller man, cupping his lover's cheeks and kissing his forehead. "You didn't even let me finish my speech. Were you this excited? Because if I knew, I would've made it way sooner."

Izuku's chuckles resonated in the room while their hands intertwined with each other, and the freckled man stole a last kiss. "You caught me off guard, but we already knew the answer when my footstep reached the apartment, didn't we? We're just too busy to make things traditional, love."

At this moment, the wonder duo knew that all those wasted tears and curses they brought to each other's name remained in the past. They were ready to write their own happy ending, even if the world was against them, but the couple didn't mind…As long as they had each other, it was enough to feel safe.

After all, Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo were each other's home.

—- end —--