Assumed Affections

by Obigood

Summary:

“U-um, I wanted t-to... I was wondering...”
“Fucking spit it out already! You looking for a fight or something?” They seemed unfazed with the harsh words, for a second the class wondered if they didn’t fear death.
“No! I wanted to ask if you would like to go on a date with me? sometime?” They seemed uncertain, losing their corage by the second. The table went silent. Kirishima’s eyes widened, and Mina let out a suprised squeak of excitement. Kaminari and Sero exchanged mischievous look before they both burst into laughter, clearly amused by the unexpected scene.
“Whoa, wait is this for real?” Kaminari snickered, whiping a tear from the corner of his eye “Did someone dare you to ask him out or something?”
“Yeah, seriously,” Sero added with a grin. “ I mean, of all people, you pick Bakugou? Are you out of your mind?”

OR

The bakusquad really need to stop making assumptions about their resident explosive blonde

Chapter 1: Chapter 1

In the bustling cafeteria of U.A High, Bakugou Katsuki sat with his usual group of friends, the so called “bakusquad”, no matter how much he complained the stupid name stuck. The others were chatting animatedly around him but he couldn’t bring himself to pay attention to their antics so early in the morning. Suddenly, a shy-looking student approached their table, fidgeting with their hands.

“Um, Bakugou,” they stammered, blushing furiosly as they met his intense red gaze. The chatter stopped abruptly, is not always that someone has the corage to meet Bakugou’s eyes without cowaring in fear or starting a fight. Knowing about this set not only the whole table on edge, but the “dekusquad’ that was sat nearby too, ready to stop the seemly enevitable conflict. “U-um, I wanted t-to... I was wondering...”

“Fucking spit it out already! You looking for a fight or something?” They seemed unfazed with the harsh words, for a second the class wondered if they didn’t fear death.

“No! I wanted to ask if you would like to go on a date with me? sometime?” They seemed uncertain, losing their corage by the second. The table went silent. Kirishima’s eyes widened, and Mina let out a suprised squeak of excitement. Kaminari and Sero exchanged mischievous look before they both burst into laughter, clearly amused by the unexpected scene.

“Whoa, wait is this for real?” Kaminari snickered, whiping a tear from the corner of his eye “Did someone dare you to ask him out or something?”

“Yeah, seriously,” Sero added with a grin. “ I mean, of all people, you pick Bakugou? Are you out of your mind?”

Bakugou’s jaw clenched as he looked around his friends amused faces, the muscles in his face tightening ever so slightly. He tried to mask the flicker of hurt that crossed his face, forcing his usual annoyed scowl. Was that what they all thought? That he was so unapproachable, so unlikable, that the only reason anyone would ask him out was as part of some cruel joke? Was he really that bad? Since the first year he thought he was getting better, he went through conceling and was trying to be nicer, showing appreciation to his friends, cooking meals for the class, healping them study, he really was trying okay? He even made things right with Deku!

It clearly wasn’t enough though. Was it really so unfatable even to his own friends that someone might actually be interested in him?

“Oi, you extras cut it out!” he growled, though his voice lacked his usual bite.

The student’s face paled as they tried to explain themselves, looking more uncomfortable by the second. Bakugou didn’t wait for the response though. He didn’t want to see their face twist into mock laughter and clarify that it was just a joke. He abruptly got up from his seat and stormed out, his eyes suspiciously wet as heard his friends try to call out to him in confusion.

He clenched his fists so hard his knuckles turned white, nails digging into his palms as he marched down the empty hallway of the dormitory.

He didn’t stop until he reached his room, slamming the door shut behind him. The silence that enveloped him was almost suffocating, the buzzing energy from the cafeteria now a distant memory. Bakugou’s hands were trembling, and he hated that he couldn’t make it stop. He hated how much it hurt to hear his friends laugh at the idea of someone actually liking him.

He let out a frustrated growl, running a hand through his hair, tugging at the strands in a desperate attempt to focus on the familiar sting of pain rather than the ache in his chest. After a moment, he forced himself to take a breath, to calm down even if his mind was still a mess of anger and insecurity, going through the breathing exercises his therapist thought him.

Slowly, he walked over to the mirror hanging on the wall above his dresser. He stared at his reflection, at the scowl that came so naturally to his face, at the intensity in his eyes that had always seemed to intimidate people more than invite them in.

He leaned in closer, his red eyes scrutinizing every detail of his face. The way his brows seemed to be perpetually furrowed, the sharp angles of his jawline, the wild spikes of his ash-blonde hair that no amount of styling could ever tame. He reached up and ran a hand over his cheek, feeling the roughness of his skin where tiny scars marred the surface from countless battles.

He’d been trying so damn hard to prove he wasn’t just an angry jerk, but maybe that wasn’t enough. Maybe it would never be enough. Being an asshole was tolerable, but an ugly asshole? Who would want to date someone like that?

His eyes started to sting so he pressed his palms against them, closing them tightly. He wasn’t going to cry. He refused to. A lump formed in his throat as he remembered the look in his friends faces, the shock, the amusement.

Bakugou turned away from the mirror, the sting of insecurity still there but buried just a little deeper. He wasn't going to let it break him. So what if he was unlovable? He was still going to be the Number 1 Hero, he didn’t have time for romance anyway. His brain betrayed him when a flock of green went through his mind. As if he would ever look his way in that manner. He was lucky enough he considered him his friend, he could never ask for more. His mom was right, no one would ever love him and he has to learn to accept it.

Chapter 2: Chapter 2

Summary:

The Bakusquad are still idiots,
Bakugou has a heart felt conversation with Deku,
Deku is a ray of sunshine.

Notes:

Hey
new chapter hope you guys like it.
Please don't mind the errors.

The next day, the atmosphere in U.A High’s cafeteria was almost painfully normal. Bakugou sat at the same table, his friends with the same antics as aways. They laughed and joked, talking about the latest training exercise as if nothing out of the ordinary had happened. Their lack of care for the situation made him wonder how they viewd him. Not like he cared about their opinion or anything, and sure, him storming out of the cafeteria wasn’t anything new, but sue him for thinking his so called friends would give a damn about actually upsetting him.

Bakugou stared at his tray of food, picking at it adsenmindedly. His mind kept drifting back to yesterday, the way they laughed, how he ended up alone in his room, feeling more exposed and vulnerable than he’d felt in years, with a whole new box of insecurities.

Yet here they were, acting like it was just another day.

“Yo, Kacchan! Earth to Kacchan!” Kaminari waved a hand in front of his face, snapping him back to reality.
“I already told you to stop fucking calling me that!” He snapped, his words harsher then usual, yes, he actually mellowed out over the years, shut up.

“Man, chill! You’re just spacing out a lot today, U good?”

Bakugou’s eyes narrowed slightly, his jaw clenching. Did they really see nothing wrong with what happened? How they humiliated him in front of everybody? He had expected at least some kind of acknolegdment, even just a joke to break the awkwardness, but all he got was casual indiference.

“Of course I’m fine, fuck off” He snapped back, his tone resigned.

"Yeah, Bakugou," Mina chimed in with a playful grin. "You’ve been extra grumpy today. Didn’t sleep well or something?"

“I’m always grumpy," he muttered, looking away from their curious gazes. "You extras just never shut up, that’s all." They all laughed at that, used to the blonde empty protests.

If they didn't care enough to notice yesterday, then maybe he was better off pretending like he didn’t care either.

He was used to that, wasn’t he? Pretending that he didn’t need anyone, that he was better off on his own. But after everything he’d gone through with them, after trying so hard to be more than just an angry jerk, he’d thought—he’d hoped—that they might see him differently now.

Suddenly, he felt someone’s gaze on him. He looked up to meet the familiar green eyes from across the cafeteria. There was something different in Midoriya’s expression—a hint of concern mixed with hesitation, like he was trying to decide whether or not to come over. Bakugou's heart gave a small jolt, and he quickly looked away, not wanting to see whatever pity or sympathy might be in those eyes.

But that didn't stop Midoriya from getting up from his table, leaving the "Deku squad" behind as he made his way over to where Bakugou was sitting. Bakugou's friends noticed him approaching but didn’t pay him too much attention.

Now days, their relationship was better then ever, after finally apologizing (in his own Bakugou way), they fell into the same dinamic as when they were kids, so it wasn’t unnusual for Midoriya to come and whisk Bakugou away to geek about a new pro hero merch launch, or about his training, or anything really. Being friends again was difficult at first, so many years of bad history doesn’t disapear just because of an apology, but Bakugou, stubburn as ever, never backed down, if he was going to do this friendship shit you bet your ass he was going to do it properly. And the effort paid off. They were closer then ever, not as close as he would like to be, but he should be content with what he got, it was enough of a miracle that he acepted his friendship, he would never ask for more.

“Hey, Kacchan,” Midoriya said softly, his voice so gentle that it almost grated on Bakugou's nerves. “Can I talk to you for a second? Outside?” The curiosity of the bakusquad peaked, the nervous aura around Midoriya made them conclude something serious must been going on.

With a frustrated growl, Bakugou pushed himself up from his seat, ignoring the confused looks his friends gave him as he followed Midoriya out of the cafeteria. Once they were outside, in the quieter hallway, Bakugou crossed his arms over his chest, scowling as he leaned against the wall.

“What do you want, Deku?” he muttered, trying to sound annoyed, though his voice came out more tired than anything.

He hesited for a moment, then took a deep breath. “About yesterday,” Bakugou unconsciously tensed up and it wasn’t unnoticed by Midoryia “I was wondering how are you feeling after all that? I-I know I should’ve said something. I should’ve stopped them from laughing, or at least told them to take it seriously. It’s just—” He paused, searching for the right words. “I’m really sorry.”

Bakugou’s eyes narrowed. “What the hell are you apologizing for? You weren’t even part of it.”

“I know,” Midoriya said, meeting Bakugou’s gaze steadily. “But I should’ve said something, they probably already apologized, so i’m sorry for taking too long too I guess, you shoudn’t have gone through that and-”

 

“They didn’t”

“W-what?”

 

“They didn’t fucking apologize and there’s no reason to.” He blurted, voice uncharacteristically flat.

 

Midoriya paused at that, a glint of hot rage flashed in his eyes, his body tensed up as he curled his hands into fists.

 

“Oh.”

 

“It’s whatever, they didn’t say anything wrong anyways.”

Midoriya startled at that, his eyes widened and his brows furrowed, he gestured wildely in indignation before raising up his volume.

“How can you say that Kacchan?! They were absolute buttholes to you!” Bakugou almost snorted at that, even when cursing ou someone Deku can always manage to be cute.

“It’s fine Zuku-”

“It isn’t!! They laughed at you! They were mean! They-” He was getting more agitaded by the second, his face red with anger and Bakugou just couldn’t take it anymore.

“They were right okay?!” He snapped losing his pacience. Deafning silence instaured, for moment they just stared at eachother.

“They were fucking right and I don’t blame them for saying the truth.” Midoriya eyes widened, then filled with worry, clearly taken a back with his outburst.

“Kacchan...” He said with a gentle tone. That damn tone that Backugou knows that if he pressed enough, he would brake. He had the power to make him crumble with just soft words and gentle eyes, but he would not let himself wallow in self pity anymore then he was.

 

“Izuku, just leave it alone okay?”

“But-”

“Promise me” He looked deep into his eyes “ Promise me that you will leave it alone” He held up his pinky, it was a dumb tradition they’ve had since they were kids, in another situation he would never do something silly as that (at least not initiate it) but he needed Deku to know how serious he was.

 

“Fine.” He reluctively twisted their pinkies together. “I won’t pry, but just know that I think you’re being dumb.” Bakugou gave a breathless relived laugh. “I know.” He said rolling his eyes.

 

“And your friends are being even dumber” He fully snorted at that.

 

“I know, now stop pouting, stupid Deku.” He said ruffling the green locks making him shriek and try to bat his hands away.

 

“What?! I’m not pouting Kacchan, stop that!”

 

Bakugou just laughed and trew his hand across Deku’s shoulders.

 

“Whatever, C’mon nerd, class will start soon”

Chapter 3: Chapter 3

Notes:

Hi sorry its been a while, but I promise I will try to update more!!
Comments mean a lot to me so thank youu
english its not my first language sorry for the mistakes.
Enjoy!!

Silence reinstored the class as Bakugou and Midoriya returned. Subtle whispers circulated among the students, curious glances flicking towards them. Bakugou, as usual acted like he didn’t notice, or care.
Class resumed as usual, but the tension lingered, the conversation from early still fresh in the blond’s mind. He tried his best to focus but he could feel Deku’s calculating gaze in the back of his neck. The damn nerd worried too much. As class wrapped up, Aizawa announces that the afternoon would be dedicated to training combat.

As they headed to the locker room, an unreasenable pit of anxiety formed in Bakugou’s stomach. Wich was stupid considering that he’s changed in front of them countless times, so why was he getting nervous all of a sudden?

He stood in his usal spot, facing the locker, pulling off his school shirt with practiced efficiency. He tried to ignore the hum of conversation behind him, chatter about strategies, the latest game that launched, banter, and occasionally, muffled laughter that he was certain it wasn’t directed at him...but it gnawed at the back of his mind anyway.

It’s not like him to worry about his appearances, he was there to be the number one hero for fucks sake! Not to be a goddamn model. But stil, the words of his friends passed through his mind, he was clearly not “dateble”, that probably includes his appearance too right? Not like he cares or anything.
And yet, as Bakugou looked down on himself, at the faint scars on his arms and the muscle definition he’d worked so hard for, a familiar pang of discomfort crept in. Was it too much? Too agressive?

He hated this feeling. The doubt. The second-guessing. He tugged his shirt back instinctively, stalling for time.

"Hey bro, you okay?"

The voice was soft but unmistakable. Bakugou tensed, turning slightly to see Kirishima standing a few feet away, already half-dressed in his own combat suit. His red eyes were wide with concern, his head tilted slightly to the side in that annoyingly earnest way.

"I’m fine, Shitty hair," Bakugou grumbled, turning back to his locker. "Mind your own damn business."

Kirishima didn’t budge. "You’ve been standing there for a while. Is something wrong with your gear?"

Bakugou exhaled sharply, his grip tightening on the edge of the locker door. He didn’t want to talk about it, especially not with Kirishima. But he also didn’t want the dumbass to keep pestering him.

"It’s nothing," he muttered, grabbing his gear and turning his back to him. He started pulling on the suit with deliberate movements, trying to shove the insecurity down where it couldn’t be seen. "Just get ready. You’re slow enough as it is."

Kirishima frowned but didn’t press further. He turned back to his own locker, glancing at Bakugou out of the corner of his eye. Something about the way he moved seemed… off. Stiffer than usual, like he was trying to shield himself. It's probably just one of his moods again, he concluded.

As the class filed out toward the training grounds, the sun hanging high in the sky as they prepared for their combat exercises. Aizawa had announced that the traing session would be free-form. Bakugou was already buzzing with energy, he really needed to burn off the frustration from earlier. That’s something he knew he was good at, doesn’t matter his looks or personality, blowing shit up doesn’t need any that. No one could match hi and hes ready to prove it again.

“Alright extras,” He barked as he stepped forwad, already actvating his gauntlets.”Don’t get in my way unless you wanna get blasted.”

The class exchanged amused but wary looks, knowing better than to interrupt him when he was in this mood. Aizawa sighed, already bracing for property damage.

"Go wild," their teacher said lazily. "But remember, you break it, you fix it."

Bakugou smirked and launched himself into the air, explosions crackling in his palms. He maneuvered with sharp precision, diving and weaving as he blasted at stationary targets scattered around the field. His quirk roared to life, each explosion more powerful than the last as he ramped up his output.

He landed in the center of the field, bracing himself for a massive attack. His hands sparked as the air around him grew hot and heavy. "DIE!" he roared, unleashing a blinding explosion that rocked the ground beneath their feet.

When the smoke cleared, Bakugou stood at the center of a scorched crater, panting slightly from the effort. His combat shirt hadn’t survived the blast the force shredding it clean off, he made a mental note to talk to the support course to make them more durable as his explosions were just getting stronger. Sweat glistened on his skin, highlighting the contours of his well-defined muscles, the faint scars on his torso catching the sunlight.

He barely noticed. He was too focused on his performance, mentally critiquing his aim and precision. "Tch. Could’ve been faster," he muttered to himself, wiping his face with the back of his glove.
Meanwhile, the rest of the class was struggling. Not with the training, but with keeping their composure.

"Damn," Kaminari whispered, wide-eyed. "Is it just me, or does Bakubro look like he stepped out of an action movie?"

"It’s not just you," Mina muttered, her cheeks slightly pink. "How does he not know how hot he is?"

"Bro’s literally glowing," Sero added, trying (and failing) to sound casual.

Even Todoroki, usually composed, raised an eyebrow. "Impressive physique," he said simply, earning a few snickers from the group.

Kirishima tried to keep it cool, but his grin was a little too wide. "That’s my bro for you. Always giving 110%."

Midoriya, standing slightly apart from the group, felt his face heat up. He’d seen Kacchan shirtless before, plenty of times, actually, but something about the way he stood there now, radiating raw power and confidence, it was...different.

Bakugou, completely oblivious, glared at the class. Suddenly feeling selfconcious about the scars and stretch marks, they’re definetely staring at them arent they? Why else would they be standing around for?

"What the hell are you all standing around for? You think watching me is gonna make you better? Get to work, you lazy extras!"

The group scrambled, Mina whispering under her breath, "Yup, still hot even when he’s yelling."

Bakugou tried to convey normalcy but as he caught Deku’s eyes his plans were out of the window. His big green eyes were staring at him, enchanting, a light blush scattered across his cheeks and an indecipherable look in his face. God, of all people looking at his ugly parts it really had to be Deku? Way to go Bakugou, now more than ever he would never even-

He’s spiriling, shaking those thoughts out of his mind he turned to focus on his training.

On the other side, Midoriya tried to shake off his embarrassment, forcing himself to focus on his own training. But as he launched into his own drills, his mind kept drifting back to the sight of Bakugou in the center of that crater, glowing skin, huge defined back, arms that could easely pick him up, thighs the size of his head and a chest that would make most girls jealous.

And somehow, despite being the most confident-looking person in the field, Bakugou still couldn’t see what everyone else did. To him, the faint scars were flaws, his strength was never enough, and the eyes on him were judging instead of admiring.

 

If only he knew.

Chapter 4: chapter 4

Notes:

Hi
So sorry it took me this long
hope you like this chapter

After training ended, the rest of the day passes in a blur. Now, the halls were mostly empty, shadows stretching across the floor as the sun dipped behind the campus buildings. His bag hung off one shoulder, and the low hum of vending machines was the only noise as he stalked toward the exit, ready to disappear into his dorm room and forget the world for a few blessed hours.

Until a voice cut through the silence.

“Hey. Boom Boy.”

Bakugou halted mid-step.

Not this again.

He turned slowly. And sure enough, leaning against the wall near the lockers, was that student. The one from the cafeteria. But now, the shy, stammering wreck was gone. Maybe because of the lack of a crowd, but in his place stood someone with an easy smirk, a cocked hip, and a spark in his eye that Bakugou absolutely did not trust.

"You're not going to storm off again, are you?" the student asked, pushing off the wall and strolling up with infuriating confidence.

“Yep. The same one who got publicly laughed at in the cafeteria and still has the guts to ask the angry explosion god on a date.” He grinned. “So… hi again.”

Bakugou huffed, averting his eyes. “Tch. I didn’t even answer you last time.”

“I noticed,” the student replied, unbothered. “You ran off like your shirt was on fire.”

Bakugou bristled. “They laughed. You were shaking. What was I supposed to say?”

“‘No thanks’ would’ve been fine,” he said with a shrug. “But hey, guess what? I’m not scared anymore.”

Bakugou squinted at him. "What the fuck do you want?”

“To ask you out. Again. Properly this time. I figured I’d give you a chance to say yes before I move on to hitting on Todoroki. I mean, his hair’s already halfway to gay pride.”

Bakugou blinked. “What the hell is wrong with you?”

“Plenty,” the student said breezily. “But unfortunately for you, I’ve got great taste in guys who don’t know how to take a compliment.”

Bakugou stared at him, his expression unreadable.

The student didn’t flinch. “Look, I’m not asking you to marry me. I’m saying let’s hang out. Just the two of us. I’m not scared of your mood swings or your scary eyes or the fact that you could probably bench-press me and still have energy left to fight a villain-wich is hot as fuck by the way"

“Tch.” His eyes widened slightly, turning his head to hide his blush.

“You act like no one sees you, but I do,” the student added, voice dropping a note in tone. “You’re loud, yeah, and angry, sure. But you’re also loyal. Crazy strong. And honestly? Kind of hot even when you’re yelling.”

Bakugou looked away, jaw tight. For once, he didn’t have a comeback ready. The automatic response to blow up and yell gnawing at him, but when he looked into their eyes, he didn't see pity.
It was dangerous, but... he was actually starting to believe him—or at least believe that this guy genuinely meant every ridiculous word he said. Bakugou knew he didn’t objectively look “hot” when yelling; this guy was just clearly out of his damn mind.

The silence hung for a few moments too long.

The student rolled his eyes. “Okay, you know what? I’ll make it easier.” He took a step back, one hand on his hip, expression mock-serious. “Bakugou Katsuki. Go out with me. Just one time. If you hate it, I’ll stop asking and let you get back to your brooding.”

Bakugou exhaled slowly through his nose.

He should’ve said no.

He wanted to say no.

But all day he’d been spiraling in his own head, haunted by looks, whispers, thoughts about his body, his value, and whether anyone saw him as more than a walking weapon. And yet here was someone — annoying, bold, absolutely too confident — who looked right at him and didn’t flinch, someone who didn't have a complicated history with him, or an abligation to like him, he just did. Like it was simple.

And who asked again even after he’d blown them off.

“…Fine,” he muttered.

The student blinked. “Wait. Was that a yes?”

Bakugou glared at him. “Don’t make me regret this.”

The grin returned, wide and wicked. “Oh, honey. You just made my whole week.”

Bakugou rolled his eyes. “Shut up.”

“I’ll text you. Wear something hot, who am I kidding? You'd look hot in anything.”

Bakugou stood frozen for a second,— actvely ignoring the rest of that sentence “Wait, how do you have my number?"

"I have my ways" He winked cheekily and walked away.

Bakugou stood in the hallway, dumbfounded, for a solid ten seconds before dragging out his phone. Sure enough, there it was: a new contact.

Chapter 5: chapter 5

Notes:

HIII two chapters on the same day omg :O
Hope you guys like it!

The last few days had been... strange.

Bakugou had been texting Kai—yes, he knew the guy’s name now—and while he’d try to keep his cool, the constant messages had slowly chipped away at his usual tough exterior. Each message from Kai seemed to make him second-guess himself less, smile more, and even laugh on occasion. And as much as Bakugou hated to admit it, he found himself actually looking forward to their conversations.

But tonight? Tonight was different. The day had finally arrived. He was going on his first real date, and for the first time in a while, he felt a flutter of nervousness in his gut. But that didn’t stop him from getting ready.

He stood in front of the mirror, checking his light makeup, just some smoky black around his eyes and concealer to hide the dark cirles caused by the sleepless nights in wich the nightmares get the best of him, and finally adjusting his leather jacket one last time.
He hated the way his heart raced as he tried to convince himself this was just another thing. No big deal. It wasn’t like he was actually going to care what he looked like or how he was perceived. But there was something about Kai—the way he’d spoken to Bakugou with such straightforwardness and confidence, and the fact that, despite his usual rough exterior, Bakugou couldn’t help but want to impress him. The only other time he felt like this was with- shaking his thoughts out of his head he checked his phone for the hundredth time to make sure he hadn’t missed any last minute texts.

He couldn’t help but feel weirdly selfconscious about the whole thing. There was no way to explain it to his friends, especially considering the chaos that was always around him (he really didn't want to get laughed at again).

When he walked into the common room to grab his bag, most of the class seemed to be lounging around. Kirishima, Kaminari, and Sero were on the couch, the usual rowdy trio, Uraraka and Mina were discussing something quietly in the corner, and Todoroki was at the table discussing some nerd shit with Deku, he forced the jealousy away.

The moment Bakugou entered, all eyes immediately flicked toward him.

“What’s up with you today, Bakugou?” Kaminari asked, leaning back in his chair and grinning. “Why are you all dressed up?”

Bakugou, feeling the familiar rise of irritation, was ready to bark back, but then he remembered his mission: he was here to leave with some dignity intact. "Don’t worry about it," he muttered, trying to keep his cool. "I’ve got something to do."

That’s when Kirishima caught sight of him—his expression suddenly turning curious. "You got plans, bro?"

“Yeah, I’m going on a date,” Bakugou said bluntly, his voice more defensive than he intended.

There was a beat of silence before the room erupted in quiet but unmistakable confusion. Kaminari’s eyes widened, and Sero leaned forward, trying to mask his curiosity with casualness.

“A date?” Kirishima repeated, his voice full of surprise. "Seriously?"

Bakugou scowled, his patience already thinning. Is it that surprising that somebody would want him?

“Yeah, a date. What, you think I don’t know how to do that?” He tried to pretend that the following silence didn't hurt.

“Who is it?” Kaminari asked, a grin tugging at the corner of his mouth, but he could tell it was forced, “Anyone we know?”

Bakugou’s throat tightened, but he didn’t want to back down. “Yeah, it’s that fucking guy from the cafeteria,” he muttered, pulling out his phone and glancing at it as if to avoid their gaze.

Kirishima looked surprised. “Wait, the guy who—?” His voice faltered, and he exchanged a glance with the others. “Man, wasn't he just messing with you?”

Bakugou’s heart skipped. “What the hell do you mean by that?” His voice was rougher than usual, a sharp edge creeping in.

Sero tried to play it off lightly, but his eyes betrayed the awkwardness.
“Nah, we’re just saying, it’s kinda weird, right? You two didn’t exactly hit it off in the cafeteria, and you're not really the type of person people would consider asking on a date.”
The words cut to him like a knife, he blinked the moisture out of his eyes. Sero pointedly turned his head at Deku, as if trying to communicate something. What, was he waiting for him to agree?

Bakugou turned to look ad the greenette recognizing the look of pure rage, he knew he was about to say something stupid, he really needed to leave before a fight broke out.

"Whatever. I’m going. Don’t wait up," Bakugou muttered, striding out of the room without looking back.

He could feel their eyes on his back, could hear the awkwardness in their voices as they tried to brush off the moment, but it didn’t matter anymore. The door closed with a loud bang. It was all just noise, static, and Bakugou was done listening.

Suddenly, he felt strong hands catching his arm. He didn't need to turn around to know who that was.

"Kacchan..." He all but whined. Pain laced in his words. He took a big shuddering breath, trying to mask his hurt before turning to meet those green puppy eyes.

Unsurprisingly Deku's eyes were filled with unshed tears. "A-are you okay? Sorry stupid question, of course you're not okay, I-I can't believe they would say something like that to you! I swear I'll fight every single one of them! That was absolutely unnac-"

"Izuku." Green eyes immediately glanced up to meet his.

"Tch. You shouldn't cry over this..." Before he could stop himself, his hand lifted, fingers brushing a tear from Deku’s cheek. The touch lingered just a second too long—gentle, unsure. Deku’s eyes fluttered closed, leaning into the warmth without thinking.

But then he caught himself.

With a sudden breath, he pulled back and scrubbed his face roughly with the sleeve of his hoodie, the vulnerability slipping away like sand through his fingers. Bakugou’s hand recoiled at the same time, snapping back to his side as though burned.

"I have the right to be upset when people unsult my friend!"

Right.

Friend.

He exhaled slowly, the fight draining from his shoulders. “Look,” he said, voice low but steady, “I don’t want this shit ruining my night. We can talk about it later, just… don’t go starting a fight on my behalf, okay?”

"Only if you promise that you'll talk some sense into them, or else I will" His eyes shined with determination as he held his pinky up. Despite everything, Bakugou chuckled, "I promise" he linked their pinkies together, with matching soft smiles.

Maybe their eyes lingered on each other a moment longer than was socially acceptable, long enough that the sound of someone clearing their throat snapped them both back to reality.

Standing there akwardly, was Kai, dressed in a light, but tight fitting jeans and a soft blue blouse.
"Sorry, am I interrupting?" He said with a tight smile, half leaving already.

Widening his eyes, Bakugou exclamed "No! I mean, no, we were just done talking."

"R-right, sorry, um, nice to meet you, um I'll just leave now, have fun on your date, bye!" Deku all but sprinted back to the dorms.

An uncomfortable silence followed. Tension filling the air.

"Sooo... Do I need to be worried?" Kai asked carefully.

"No! Absolutely not, he was just checking up on me, something shitty happened but it's whatever, we can go now."

"Hey, no, what happened? Do you want to talk about it? If you're not feeling up for today we can do this another day, no pressure." Kai instinctively grabbed one of his hands, caressing it slightly.

"No, I, " He took a big breath to recollect himself. " I want to do this." He said blushing, looking at where their hands connect. He surprisingly realized that he didn't mind, he actually... liked it.

"Yeah?" Kai smiled sheepishly at him.
"Yeah." He muttered, suddenly feeling shy.

"Let's go then, I planned the perfect date, you'll be wanting to propose by the end of the night!"

Bakugou giggled— seriosly? He barely began this romance shit and he was already giggling like a school girl? "We'll see about that."

"Um, you look really good by the way"

"Thank's, y-you too I guess."

"You guess?" Kai's playful grin made his heart skip a beat.

"Don't push it." He rolled his eyes, but a matching grin that scaped betrayed him.

 

Maybe things are looking up.

Chapter 6: chapter 6

Notes:

date timeeee

The arcade was a riot of neon lights, outdated carpet, and screams of joy and frustration echoing from every corner. Bakugou stood outside, hands jammed deep in his pockets, jaw tight. His shoulders hadn’t dropped since sunrise.

He hated places like this—too loud, too messy, too many strangers breathing his air.

But he came anyway.

Kai had a confident stride, they sauntered toward the arcade doors, hips swaying, glancing back once with a wicked glint in their eye. The moment they stepped inside, sound swallowed them—machines dinging, children shoutin and synth music thumping in the background.

Kai turned, walking backwards now. “You gonna scowl at everything all night, or are you actually gonna have fun with me?”

Bakugou shot them a look. “That depends, are we actually doing something worth my time or just gonna stand here?"

Then Kai chukled and turned on their heel. “Come on, Boom Boy. Winner buys the other one ice cream.”

And despite the noise, the chaos, the colors flashing across his vision,
for the first time that day, Katsuki Bakugou didn’t feel like breaking anything.

Yet.

 

They started with air hockey. Bakugou was good, but Kai was ruthless. “You’re seriously letting me win?” they taunted. “Or is this your version of flirting?”

“Keep talking and I’m gonna beat your ass.”

“Promises, promises.” He made a pointed decision to not think to hard about that and got his attention back in the game.

Then they moved to a zombie shooter game, side-by-side, lights flashing across their faces. Kai screamed dramatically every time a zombie lunged, earning some side eyes and a lot of laughter from passersby. Bakugou, despite himself, grinned.

When they reached the claw machines, Kai pointed at a ridiculously oversized cat plush.

“I want that.”

Bakugou snorted. “You can’t win that. No one can.”

Kai leaned in close, lips near his ear. “You doubting me, Boom Boy?”

His heart stuttered. “Damn right I am.”
Ten minutes and way too many tokens later, Bakugou growled and yanked the machine with enough force to shake it. The cat fell, miraculously, into the chute.

Kai gasped. “You brute! You cheated!”

“Worked, didn’t it?” he smirked, holding out the plush.

Kai took it, eyes glinting. “Katsuki Bakugou. You hopeless, adorable delinquent.”

“I’m not adorable.”

“You’re right. You’re dangerously cute. Like a kitten with grenades.”
Somehow, that made him laugh. Like, actually laugh.

And when the night ended, and they stood near the exit under buzzing fluorescent lights, Kai tilted their head and leaned back against the hard wall, the cat clutched lazily at their side. "So. You gonna tell me why you looked like you were so down the earlier?"

Bakugou shrugged. “Just… a shit day.”

Kai waited. The silence made it clear they weren’t buying the deflection.

He sighed, dragging a hand down his face. “ It's just—shit, I don't know, my stupid friends treat me like I’m some ticking bomb. No matter how much I try—how hard I fight—they still see the same hot-headed bastard.”

He didn't know where this sudden honesty was coming from, but after this past few days he just felt like he was ready to burst ar any given time, now that the dam opened there's no closing it back.

“Like,” he laughed, short and bitter, “they didn’t even believe you could possibly want to date me. Said you were messing with me. And honestly, I…” He looked away. The shame hit like a sucker punch to the gut.

"You believed them?" they said softly.

Bakugou’s jaw tightened. “Yeah. Fuckin’ pathetic, right?”

Kai moved closer. Slowly, like they didn’t want to spook him. When they spoke, their voice wasn’t laced with sarcasm for once. It was low. Steady.

“No. It’s not pathetic. It’s human.”

“You don’t think I’m just some walking explosion?” he asked, his voice rough.

Kai’s smile was faint. “You are a walking explosion. That’s part of the appeal.”

He snorted, but there was no venom in it. “Thanks.”

Kai reached out, brushing a hand along his arm. Just fingertips. Just enough to let him feel it.

“You’re not the only one who walks around feeling like you’re not enough, that no matter how loud you scream, no one really hears you.”

Bakugou stared at them. Vulnerability looked dangerous on Kai—like barbed wire wrapped in silk. Like a truth he hadn’t earned but was being handed anyway.

“I don't know how to let people in without feeling like they're gonna see the worst of me,” he said finally, voice low.

Kai touched his wrist, just barely. “Then let them see it. If they run, they were never worth it.”

Their fingers lingered, trailing up his arm. It was a casual touch that didn’t feel casual. Bakugou’s breath hitched.

"Let me see it."

The space between them was electric. Barely there. His heart pounded. Every breath was a choice.

Bakugou stared at their mouth—then their eyes. “If you kiss me, I’m not stopping you.”

Kai’s voice dropped. “Good.”

They didn’t move.

Neither did he.

The tension curled like smoke between them, slow and smoldering. A promise, unspoken but heavy.

Kai’s hand slid up, thumb brushing his jaw.

“You’re allowed to be soft,” they whispered.

“I’m not.”

“You can be. With me.”

Bakugou leaned forward—just enough to feel the ghost of their lips on his.

But he didn’t close the distance.

He wasn’t ready.

Yet.

And maybe that was okay.

Kai pulled back first, just an inch, eyes glittering. “We’ll get there.”

“Maybe,” he murmured, voice rough.

The cat plush squished between them as they finally laughed—soft, quiet, but real.

For the first time all day,

 

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

“You feel a little better now?”

He hesitated. Then gave a quiet nod. “Yeah. Thanks… Kai.”

Kai leaned in and pecked his cheek. “Good. Now don’t ghost me tomorrow. I’ll find you.”

Bakugou felt the heat rise to his face. “You’re a menace.”

Kai winked. “Takes one to know one.”

Notes:

I'm loving you guys theories in the comments!! ty for the support <33

Chapter 7: chapter 7

Notes:

THE REVEAL
assumptions are never a good thing.

The door to Heights Alliance slammed open so hard the hinges rattled.

Everyone in the common room jumped. Izuku Midoriya stood in the doorway, fists clenched, green eyes blazing. The common room fell quiet.

Kaminari and Kirishima sat frozen on the couch, a paused game controller in Denki’s lap. Sero looked up from his phone, Mina nearly choked on her soda.

“Izuku?” Kirishima stood slowly.

“You okay, man?” Mina muttered, looking confused but wary. “Did something happen?”

“Yeah. You all fucking happened.”

Silence fell again, this time heavier.

“I can’t believe you guys gave him crap just because he went on a date,” Midoriya snapped. “What the hell is wrong with you?!”

“We didn’t mean to hurt him,” Mina said quickly, her voice small. “We were just—”

“What?” Deku barked. “That teasing him, cornering him, acting like he was some sort of zoo animal?”

“What?! NO! We thought he was being cruel,” Sero said, quietly. “To you.”

 

Izuku stared. “What?”

 

“He was being shady,” Mina snapped back, defensive. “He just sprung it out of nowhere like it was no big deal. After everything with you.”

 

Midoriya’s eyes narrowed. “What does that mean?”

 

Kaminari looked down at his hands. “Everyone kinda knew you two were together. Or... something close. Sorry dude, I know you were trying to hide it but we knew. We thought... if he was going on a date, and it wasn’t with you, that it was cold.”

 

“You thought he was cheating on me,” Deku said flatly.

“Yeah.” Kirishima didn’t even hesitate.

“You thought I had him,” Midoriya said, voice quieter now but no less furious. “That he was mine to be cheated from.”

No one spoke.

“We’re not together,” he said, and the words dropped like a bomb. “We’ve never been together.”

The room froze. Sero’s eyes widened. Kaminari blinked.

“What?”

“We’re. Not. Together.” Midoriya enunciated each word with precision. “He doesn’t even know I like him. No one does. Not until now. So whatever you thought you were protecting me from — it was a lie. One you invented.”

Mina opened her mouth, then closed it again.

“He got asked out,” Deku continued, voice cracking slightly. “And for once, he was trying. He was doing something that scared him. And you — all of you — made him feel like the villain. You punished him for something he didn’t do. For not being in a relationship that never even existed.”

 

Kirishima ran a hand through his hair, visibly shaken. “We would never— We really thought we were doing the right thing…”

“Then maybe next time,” Midoriya growled, “try asking. Or thinking. Because now he’s out there, wondering if everyone hates him , if he's likeable. He doesn’t open up easily. He finally tried to... and you made him feel like a villain for it.”

Mina’s voice trembled, tears slipping down her cheeks. “Izuku... we didn’t mean to hurt him. We’re so sorry.”

“It’s not me you need to apologize to,” Deku snapped. “It’s him.”

He turned, heading for the hallway, but stopped at the corner.

“He deserves good things,” he said without turning back. “And whether he finds them with me or someone else... I won’t let you be the reason he stops looking.”

And then he was gone.

 

 

Notes:

See guys, they're not evil, just really really dumb.

Chapter 8: Chapter

Notes:

HIII GUYS I'M ALIVE
I'm so sorry for just vanishing, Uni and work kinda got to me. I will try to update more, don't give up on me!!
hope you like this chapter!

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

The sun was already starting to dip behind the dorms by the time they gat back. The light hit everything gold - the trees, the path, the edges of Bakugou's hair, the shine in his red eyes. He hated how perfect it looked. Like something out of a cheesy romcom.

Kai laughed softly beside him. "You don't smile much, huh?"

Bakugou rolled his eyes. "Do I look like someone who smiles often?"

Kai chuckled, and to Bakugou's surprise he didn't feel annoyed. Just...warm. Lighter than usual.

"I hope I get to see it one day then" His heart skipped a beat, his hands feeling clammy, but he didn't respond.

"You know," Kai continnued, not seeming to mind the silence,"I had a really good time."

Bakugou shifted awkwardly. "Yeah. Me too."

"Good," Kai said, stepping back with an unbothered grin, but being betrayed by the the anxious gripping of his hands. "Then maybe next time you can pick the place."

Bakugou scoffed, looking away. "We'll see."

But Kai only smiled more, clearly not bothered by the attitude. "Later, Bakugou."

He nodded.

Then Kai was gone, walking down the path, humming something under his breath.

Bakugou turned back towards the dorms, opened the door — and froze.

The idiots.

All of them just waiting outside the front door, like some shitty intervention scene from a teen drama. Their faces were hesitent. Guilty.

He could feell his mood drop like a weight in his chest.

Kirishima stepped foward first. "Hey man, can we talk?"

Bakugou didn't answer.

"We just - " Mina started, chin wobbling,"- we owe you an apology. We didn't realize how much we messed up."

"Yeah," Kaminari added, shifting anxiously, "We were out of line. We thought we were doing the right thing, looking out for Midoriya, but- "

Then, he finally spoke.

"No."

They all blinked.

"No?" Sero repeated.

Bakugou’s eyes were blazing. “No. Not now. You don’t get to dump all this on me the second I get back. I had a good day. A good date. And I’m not letting you ruin it.”
“But—” Mina began.

“We’ll talk later,” Bakugou snapped. “Not now. Not when I’m still pissed off. And not when I’m finally feeling good for the first time this week.”

He turned sharply, storming past them and into the dorms without another word.

 

˚₊‧꒰ა ☆ ໒꒱ ‧₊˚

 

Bakugou slammed the door to his dorm room harder than necessary.

 

He stood there for a second, back against the wood, jaw clenched, fists tighter.

Of course they were waiting for him. Of course they coudn't just leave it alone for five damn minutes.

He inhale shaply, not wanting do deal with it. Not now. Not after... not after that.

 

Taking out his jacket and undoing a few buttons of the blouse, he sat on the edge of the bed, and stared blankly at the floor.

And then his phone buzzed.

 

[Kai 6:38 PM]
Hey. Just wanted to say thanks for giving me a chance again. I had a really good time today.
You're kinda fun even when you're threatening to blow stuff.💥

 

Bakugou stared at the screen, lips twitching despide himself.

Another buzz.

 

[Kai 6:39 PM]
I hope you have a good night. Text me if you wanna do this again. No pressure.

 

He stared at the message, and then, before he could talk himself out of it, he replyed.

[You 6:41]
Yeah. It was good.
Might be free next weekend.
Don't get cocky.

 

He was still staring at his phone, thumb hovering over the screen, when there was a knock at the door.

Three short taps. Melodic but hesitant.

He didn’t need to ask who it was.

“...What?”

“Hey. It’s me,” Midoriya’s voice said through the door. “Can I come in?”

Bakugou rolled his eyes but didn’t say no.

The door creaked open, and Midoriya peeked in like he wasn’t sure if he was going to get a fireball to the face.

"What do you want?" He asked snappier than usual, and immediatly regretted it.

“I just… I wanted to ask how your date went.”

Bakugou blinked.

Izuku was the last person he wanted to talk about this, but as he stared at those big green eyes he knew he was going to anyways.

Midoriya shifted his weight awkwardly, his arms crossed, trying to look casual and failing completely. “Was it… good?”

Bakugou eyed him carefully. “Yeah. It was.”

Midoriya smiled a little, but it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “I’m glad.”

Bakugou stared for another second, then asked, voice low and sharp:

“You talk to them?”

Midoriya’s smile dropped.

“Yeah,” he said, after a pause. “I did.”

“And?”

“I yelled at them,” Midoriya said plainly. “Told them they were wrong. That they hurt you. That they needed to fix it.”

“They’re sorry,” Midoriya added. “They were stupid. They made an dumb assumption and went with it. But I know that doesn’t fix it.”

“No,” Bakugou said flatly. “It doesn’t.”

Midoriya nodded. “I figured. I just… wanted you to know that I didn’t stay quiet.”

Bakugou glanced back at him. “You think that makes you some kinda hero?”

Midoriya didn’t flinch. “No. I think it makes me your friend.”

They stared at each other for a long moment.

Then Bakugou sighed and dropped back onto the bed. “I’m too tired for this crap.”

“I can go,” Midoriya offered, backing toward the door.

“...I didn’t say that.”

Midoriya blinked. Then sat down at Bakugou’s desk chair, spinning it once before letting it stop.

They sat in silence for a few moments. Midoryia's eyes flickered for a moment to the open buttons on his chest and immediately averted his eyes, face crimson.

Bakugou’s phone buzzed again. Another message from Kai. He didn’t check it. Not with Izuku here.

 

“I’m not gonna forget it,” Bakugou muttered eventually. “What they did.”

“I know,” Midoriya said softly.

“But I’m not gonna let them ruin it, either.”

Midoriya looked up. “Good.”

Another beat of silence.

“…What did you do after?” Midoriya asked.

Bakugou smirked faintly. “What, you wanna know if I kissed him?”

Midoriya flushed immediately. “W-What?! No! I—! I mean—! Not unless you want to tell me, I just meant—!”

Bakugou barked out a short laugh. “Relax, nerd. We didn’t. He’s not pushy.”

“Oh,” Midoriya mumbled, clearly flustered.

Bakugou’s smirk faded just a little as he stared down at his phone.

“Still,” he said under his breath, almost like he was reminding himself, “it was a good day.”

And for the first time that night, Bakugou didn’t feel like someone was trying to take that away from him.

Midoriya didn’t speak, just nodded.