Negative SPCE

This is the first chapter of my Todoroki x OC book. All characters are aged up. (This will be a mature story down the line.) This is my first attempt at really writing so I really hope you guys like it! 

SUMMARY: Adult pro hero Todoroki falls in love with an African-American plus size woman he’s met in his favorite coffee shop. However, this Cajun Army-brat is difficult to win over but he refuses to give up on her as he helps to break down her walls. Little does he know, she’s put these walls up for a reason.

CHAPTER 1. Everything Happens to Me | Chapter Song

“Yes Father, the threat has been dealt with,” the red and white-haired man said into his cell phone as he sauntered down the busy streets of Tokyo. He had just taken out a troublesome gang with the intent to sell stolen goods. Subduing them was easy enough, but he was annoyed he had to do it in the first place. During the fall months, crime usually slows down. Unfortunately, these villains did not have the same sentiment. “You really should learn how to delegate. There are plenty of capable sidekicks at our agency. There really was no need to call me in on my day off,” he huffed. 

“I am delegating. I delegated this job to you didn’t I?” Endeavor barked through the phone. 

Shoto rolled his eyes and proceeded to enter his favorite coffee shop, giving a polite nod to the cashier as she looked him up and down in his hero costume.  He didn’t normally like to be seen in it outside of patrols but a trip home just to change seemed inefficient. He’d just have to endure the extra stares. “I suppose. I’ll email you the full incident report tonight. Goodbye.” 

“Shoto wait-.” 

He hung up before his father could have a chance to finish, not wanting to spoil what he had left of his day off. A small smile graced his lips as he addressed the cashier. “My apologies. May I please have a small black coffee.” 

She nodded and got to work on his coffee while he scanned the cafe. He enjoyed this particular cafe because of their open mic nights. He liked the relaxed atmosphere and also not being the center of attention for a while. Hero work had its perks, but the pitfall was always feeling like he had to maintain his hero image. Shoto was a civil servant after all. He was not only representing himself but his father by extension. Even though he and Endeavor had their issues, he was still going to be respectful if even just for the agency’s sake. 

After receiving and paying for his coffee, he eyed a free booth with a good view of the stage. In the booth in front sat another cafe regular that he had seen many times before, her long black curls and rich chocolate skin catching his eye more than once. She often sat alone with a book in hand and he wondered why a woman so beautifully unique as her would be unaccompanied. Even as he wondered and walked over to his empty booth behind her, he decided not to bother her. Perhaps like him, she enjoyed the peace and quiet atmosphere alone.

high unemployment and a lot of underpaying, pointless jobs = people are looking for things to do with their life, a purpose

skyrocketing cost of living = most young people will not be able to live on their own, meaning some will end up in a group living situation with people interested in recruiting them

it’s a time of great cultural and political upheaval, nothing feels real, people are desperate for meaning and human connection. cults promise that

there is a new wave of acceptance and understanding for ways of life outside the norm, which is great! …except for when cult leaders tell you abusive and controlling practices are just their culture, their religion, their lifestyle, their beliefs, their tradition, and if you disrespect it you are the problem

social media influencers have already shown us how easy it is to build a cult of personality and attract people from anywhere in the world who are interested in the exact brand you are selling

spirtuality is having a boom, as are things like astrology, crystals, tarot, meditation, energy… those things aren’t bad on their own but they are often used as tools of cult spaces

wellness. i think a lot of people are already in wellness cults. you can make people do a lot of things in the name of “wellness” and a big factor of maintaining a cult is keeping members in a state of decreased cognition….. like say, with regular fasting

SOCIAL BUFFER: Learn what healthy social boundaries are and develop relationships which are within those boundaries.

Be wary of those who step on your or others’ boundaries. Be there for your friends, but don’t be their therapists or parents. Go get coffee or juice or snacks & chat casually with a friendly crew on a regular basis.

ESTEEM BUFFER. Recognize that you and every other person on this planet are owed a baseline of respect.

Respect means that what you wear, what/who you take interest in, and who/what you are are things which you decide on based on your own reasoning. If anyone is trying to change your mind, make sure to think critically about their side and decide for yourself whether you want to change. Ask: Why do they want you to change? Is that valid to your situation? Who / what would benefit from this change? Do you want them / it to benefit? Then decide for yourself.

RELAXATION BUFFER. Take time exclusively for yourself.

Take care of your body and mind when it needs to be fed, watered, washed, or nurtured. Have a couple hobbies that are just for you. Have more than one interest. Think about more than just one topic. Cults keep you focused on them to the exclusion of all else, so don’t allow yourself to be blocked in.

BUBBLE POP BUFFER: Learn from multiple sources, even ones you don’t like or respect.

Read multiple sources’ versions of events before you decide what you feel about something. Recognize that not all sources are valid, but understand what those invalid sources are trying to do. Are they misguided or malicious? Who are THEIR sources? What is the agenda? Who benefits? Why would they want to say what they’re saying? Do they have a point? Who pays them? What do they care about? Then make your decision.

BEWARE THE B.I.T.E.: Cults control people via Behavior, Information, Thought, and Emotion control. BITE

Look up the BITE model and consider it against groups you wish to join / have joined.

Remember. You are the arbiter of your mind.

You have the blessing and burden of making your own decisions. Other people who will love and care about you throughout your life will want you to think for yourself and will think for themselves.

Casual reminder: the Jonestown folks were, among other things, civil rights activists and evangelists for progressive politics of the time. Politics that, outside the context of their cult, were completely agreeable and even good.

There are different ways cults convince you to cut ties with those outside the group, to rely on them as your primary or only source of community. Some will fall back on old school bigotries and social mores (strict gender roles, racism, ableism, etc). Others? Will tap into actual movements for positive ideologies and use the existing isolation that can exist with those valid but often belied beliefs to encourage even further isolation, for “self protection”, to “remove toxic people”, because others are “the enemy”.

All of which can be healthy things to do in theory, but be cautious of who’s suggesting you do them and why.

As folks have said above, it’s not just self proclaimed “religions” and “movements”. It’s also self-help, wellness, MLM companies, exercise groups, book clubs, basically any group that regularly gets together, and in the modern era? That includes: discords, subreddits, group chats, forums, etc.

I think one of the biggest mistakes people make about cults is reading all these kinds of warnings and garnering from it that there is intention and planning and malice in these manipulations. But here’s the most important thing to know: usually, the people “recruiting” you or “indoctrinating” you? They also mean well. They are genuinely other likeminded people who are trying their best. They’re true believers and they genuinely believe they are offering you solace and community that is good for you. You’ll say “but these people can’t be a cult, they’re so nice!” Yes they are! “They’re not evil!” Yeah! That’s what makes a cult a cult. The defining feature of a cult, above all else, is its ability to get otherwise good rational people to act in ways deeply outside their interest, ways they would normally never act.

“And they’re smart people!” Yes! There’s no “being too smart” to fall for a cult. In fact, many cults cater to those with above average intelligence. Often being “smart” can make it harder to leave, because you’re better at finding justifications for what should be unjustifiable. Finding rationale for what is irrational.

There are a few common avenues of daily reinforcement and control. Sex is the most notorious (there’s a reason people have been studying Incels under the model of a cult despite them lacking the technical qualifier of an unquestionable leader - a qualification that some are wondering if the internet hasn’t rendered moot given the propensity of communities to self-radicalize en masse with this new medium). There’s also Food, Sleep, Language, Clothes, Work, Entertainment.

Especially when the group manages to take the focus away from its stated ideologies to those mostly symbolic abstractions? And treating them as equivalent? That’s a method of thought control, and a means of getting you to voluntarily self-isolate. It starts reasonable and then morphs into controlling.

My religion thinks bodies are sacred and should be respected - becomes My religion thinks bodies should be kept private except to your immediate family - becomes My religion mandates we can’t wear clothes that expose our shoulders - becomes My religion is warning against hanging out with people who wear tank tops because they could be a bad influence.

The initial ideal the action represents is almost always good. It’s the abstraction and reformation of it into something small and mostly unrelated to the first goal, something that makes you afraid to step outside the group, that is the problem, and more than that, it’s then the enforcement of that now largely arbitrary and abstract rule.

Something reasonable like “We need to care for the environment and the wellbeing of animals” becomes “I could lose my entire community and would be considered irreparably evil if I ate an egg”.

Being vegan because you want to be? Because there’s good reasons to be? Because you like it? Chill. Being vegan because your entire social structure is based on it and you’re afraid of the moral and social consequences of doing differently? Because you worry it would make you morally bankrupt and beyond deserving love? Not chill.

Or not entirely beyond deserving love, the group tells you. There is a reparation you can make, but only the group holds that salvation, so you have to prostrate yourself before them on their terms to be accepted in the only community you have left.

This can become a cycle of guilt and repentance that keeps you trapped. You’re not supposed to masturbate, but you do. You feel guilty, so you confess. The group gives you a mandated penance that’s nearly impossible to meet. The guilt and anxiety overwhelm you. All you want is to feel good for just a second. You masturbate again. The cycle repeats. The group says you have an “addiction”, when a healthy attitude outside the group would call your initial act totally healthy and normal, and the diagnosis of it as a problem and the unnecessary shame as the actual problem. The group provides a solution to a problem they themselves invented.

Even if it’s not a full blown cult, if you’re afraid of the social retribution you might face for doing things like enjoying a movie or using the wrong label for yourself or choosing the wrong product brand - question that community and whether it’s actually good for you. (And if the RIGHT product brand happens to be owned by a major figure within the community? That’s a cult baby! Someone’s grifting you, get the hell out!)

Look out for love-bombing. For thought terminating cliches. For strict in-group/out-group boundaries. For so many alternate definitions to words that your conversations becomes nearly indecipherable to anyone outside the small community. For unreasonable demands of ideological purity. For things that can physically impair your judgment- like a strictly controlled diet, fasting, massive physical exertion, weird sleep schedules, mind altering substances. For outright dismissal of standard sources without examination (“oh you trust the mainstream media still?” “They just want to silence us.”) For ostracism or vilification of defectors or people who disagree, especially when it’s about relatively minor sticking points.

Cults and conspiracy theories can steal your relationships, your sense of self, your time, your money, and they can make you willingly do things that are actively hurtful to yourself and others in the name of the group or the conspiracy.

Ch.1  Ch. 2 Chapter song

Prince Shoto: My apologies for keeping you waiting. It’s been a very busy week.

Prince Shoto: Would you happen to be available tonight for that date?

Prince Shoto: I know it’s short notice.

Aimee: Actually I am available. Have anything in mind?

Prince Shoto: I was thinking perhaps taking a cooking class together?

Aimee: Sure. I can eat. ;)

Prince Shoto: Great. Send me your address and I’ll pick you up around 6 pm.

Prince Shoto: See you soon.

————-

Hatsume burst through Aimee’s front door on a mission. “Show me the closet.” 

Aimee led her friend to her bedroom, throwing herself onto the bed. “I have no idea what to wear,” she groaned dramatically. 

“Well, where is he taking you?” Hatsume asked over her shoulder as she looked through her closet.” 

“A cooking class.” 

“Hmm… So maybe something that won’t stain easily,” the pink-haired woman hummed. ”So what kind of date are we hoping for huh?” 

Aimee sat up, leaning against her elbows as she quirked a brow. “What do you mean?” 

“What do you want your outfit to say? FOR EXAMPLE!” She pulled out a pastel pink sweater and a pair of jeans. “This says, ‘I’m here to get to know you and just have a good time.’” Next, she pulled out a fire engine red bodycon midi dress from the back of your closet. “But this says, ‘let’s skip straight to dessert, take me now.’” 

Aimee laughed nervously and took the scandalous dress back from her friend, stuffing it back into the closet. Why did I even buy this thing? “How about somewhere in the middle? I don’t want to give ‘take me now’ vibes but… it wouldn’t hurt to still look like a snack.” Aimee blushed at her statement before sitting back down at the edge of the bed. 

Hatsume nodded and dove back into her closet, pulling and tossing things out before handing her another outfit. “In that case, this is my pick. Go put it on!” She pushed the ravenette into the bathroom to change with a wide smile.

After changing, Aimee stepped out of her bathroom wearing a black off the shoulder bodysuit paired with a wine-colored flouncy mini skirt. She gave her friend a modest twirl before walking over to her full-length mirror. “I have to hand it to you, Mei, you know what you’re talking about. I didn’t expect that from a grease monkey,” She giggled, earning a playful smack on the shoulder from her friend. 

“Hey! This grease monkey cleans up well when she wants to!” 

Aimee turned around to check out her backside in the mirror. “Hmm. Are you sure about this skirt? Be honest, does my ass look too big? Volume vs surface area.”  

Hatsume hummed, tapping her chin and looking at her from all angles. “Surface area looks good. Not too wide, not too narrow.” she paused to look at her silhouette from the side. “Volume: it sticks enough to create a beautiful curve, without looking excessive. You’re a ‘big bootied beauty’ babe!” 

Aimee sighed and took her hand, gazing at her lovingly. “You get me.” 

“Of course I do. I’m a genius. Now let’s finish getting you all dolled up so you can catch you a man!”

The girls took their time getting Aimee ready when a knock on the door startled them back to reality. “That’s gotta be him… You can’t be here so just go back in the bedroom! There’s an extra key in the plant, so just lock up after you leave,” Aimee said while pushing her pink-haired friend towards the hallway. 

“Go get him girly!” Hatsume whispered with a wink. 

Aimee giggled lightly while walking back to the front door. She paused for a moment, brushing off her skirt, and adjusting her top so that just the right amount of cleavage was showing before opening the door.

There in all his glory, was Todoroki Shoto. He looked so handsome in his black turtle neck, as he flashed his signature small smile. “Hi.” Aimee couldn’t help the bright smile that appeared on her own lips as she took him in. 

“Hey.” A faint blush crossed his cheeks as he took in her appearance as well. She was breathtaking as usual, but the way her delicate décolletage was left exposed left him mesmerized. “You look beautiful.” Now it was Aimee’s turn to flush as she mumbled a soft thank you. “Shall we?” Todoroki offered his hand and she gladly took it.

After locking up and walking down the stairs to the street, Aimee looked at the parked cars aligning the curb, one wildly standing out. Todoroki took his keys out of his pocket, and with of a click of his keyfob, the car in question flashed its lights. Walking up to his Tesla Model X, he gave his keyfob another press and the front car door opened automatically, presenting its sleek leather interior. Man, this is a nice ass car, Aimee thought to herself as she slipped into the passenger seat. Shoto closed her door, before walking around to enter the car himself. 

“I didn’t know we’d be taking a spaceship on our date,” Aimee said with a small smirk as she eyed the large touchscreen display on the dashboard. 

Shoto quirked a brow as he pulled away from the curb. “You mean my car?” 

“Nope, pretty sure it’s a spaceship with wheels.” She giggled and it was music to his ears.

After arriving, Shoto escorted Aimee into the studio. They were greeted by the instructor and asked for their cocktail order. Aimee decided on a mojito while Shoto opted for an old fashioned. As they walked behind their cooking station, Aimee noticed a distinct lack of people. “Slow night tonight?” 

Shoto shook his head, nervously rubbing the back of his neck. “Actually, I rented out the place for the night. I thought you might enjoy the privacy.” 

A surprised look flashed across her face before a smile fell on her lips. “Oh, I’ve never had a place rented out for me before. Thanks.” She turned away, putting on her apron, in hopes of hiding her small blush.

The class menu was balsamic pork tenderloin and root vegetables. The two got to work, following the instructor’s directions. “So do you cook often?” Aimee asked as she trimmed the skin from the pork. 

“I like to, I wish could more often but patrols and paperwork often get in the way.” 

She hummed, looking up at the handsome hero beside her. “Hero work can be pretty time-consuming, huh?”  

Todoroki nodded while he chopped the veggies. “What about you?” 

“I love cooking. To me, food feeds the soul as well as the body.” She paused and chuckled to herself. “I also just love to eat, so I gotta love to cook by proxy.” 

Todoroki gave her a small smile as he started to season the vegetables, his eyes slyly taking in the sight of her thick thighs. You certainly don’t get those curves by skipping meals. He shook his head at his own naughty thoughts. “So what do you do for a living?” 

“I’m a middle school teacher.” 

Ah, that would explain the classroom picture on her Instagram. Shoto watched as she seared the meat in a hot skillet. “Teachers do not get enough credit. Especially middle school teachers. I know I was a huge brat at the age.” The sound of Aimee’s soft giggle surprised the hero as he looked into her large eyes. 

“Now that’s rich, coming from the most polite man I’ve ever met.”  

A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he turned his body toward her, effectively towering over her small frame. “You would be surprised. You’re not the only one here with a smart mouth.”

Aimee’s mind went blank as she stared up at the peppermint haired man. Did he just say what I think he said? Shit, that was smooth. They both held each other’s gaze, not saying another word. It almost felt as if neither of them took a breath, gaging each other’s reactions. It wasn’t until Aimee felt a sharp pain on her hand that she was brought out of the moment. “Ow!” She held her hand, having burned it on the hot skillet. 

“Here, let me.” Shoto gently took her hand into his, resting his right hand on top of the burn. He activated his quirk, becoming her personal ice pack. 

She smiled, feeling relief instantly. “Thank you.” 

Shoto gave her another small smile before letting her hand slip through his. “My pleasure.” 

Aimee smiled cheekily as she examined her hand, seeing her opening. “My hero to the rescue.” 

Shoto flushed a deep red at her comment. Her hero? Well, I certainly wouldn’t object. He quickly went back to preparing the meal, in hopes of hiding his red cheeks.

After putting the food into the oven, Shoto led Aimee over to a sitting area, to finish their now, second round cocktails. “So tell me more about your teaching career. I’m quite curious.”  

Aimee sipped her mojito as she crossed her legs. She didn’t miss the quick glance of Todoroki’s eyes at her thighs. Thank you, Hatsume. “Well, I love kids, so it seemed like a natural choice. I like being a positive influence on them during such a vulnerable time.” Aimee gasped as she remembered something, somewhat startling Shoto. “Actually, next week we’re having a Q&A for the kids. We’re inviting professionals to come in and explain how knowing English helps them in the workforce.” She nervously twiddled her thumbs as she continued in a soft voice. “I almost hate to ask, but would you be willing to come by and talk to the kids? I know they would be so excited.”  

Shoto instinctively knew she had a kind heart. But seeing her put herself out there for the benefit of her students really struck a chord in him. “I would love to.” A bright smile crossed her face that reflected into her eyes. Shoto never stood a chance. He would do anything for that smile.

After finishing their meal, they both entered the spaceship/car to drive Aimee home. The ravenette was bopping her head along to the radio when she saw a familiar storefront approaching. “Wait, do you mind if we stop here for a bit?” Shoto pulled over without hesitation, curious of what caught her eye. Opening the door for her, they walked into an old music store. Shoto followed behind an excited Aimee as she practically skipped down the aisles. “Here we are,” she smiled as she flipped through some old records, the sign above her head reading “Jazz.” 

Shoto peered over her shoulder, looking at the list of names she was flipping through. “So you’re a music fan?” 

Aimee hummed and nodded eagerly. “Yeah, I love collecting old jazz records. Reminds me of home. Do you ever listen to jazz?” 

He shook his head sheepishly. “I can’t say I have. I have to admit I don’t know the first thing about it.”

Aimee gasped with wide eyes as she put down the records and dragged him over to a listening station. “Well, then welcome to Jazz 101! The cool thing about jazz is it’s one of the only art forms that is distinctly American.” Todoroki nodded as he put the headphones over his ears. “Here, let’s start you out with one of my favorites.” She smiled as she pressed the play button on Ella Fitzgerald’s and Louis Armstrong’s “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” The sound of a trumpet filled his ears and a velvety woman’s voice soon followed. The smooth and soft melody enticed him, but it was really the lyrics that swayed him the most. Aimee looked up into his heterochromatic eyes expectantly. “Well, you like it?” 

Shoto couldn’t help the smile that pulled at his lips as he looked down at this woman full of surprises. “I do.” He pulled off the headphones and placed them back on the rack. “What other artists would you recommend to start my jazz collection?” 

Aimee smiled and tapped her chin. “My favorites are Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday… just for starters.” He nodded and started to look for those artists in the CD racks. “But, jazz is best enjoyed on a record. The music is more alive.” Todoroki hummed, walking back over to the record section, Aimee following behind. Aimee picked out a few records for herself as Todoroki found his picks. 

The store owner walked up to them with a warm smile. “Finding everything ok?” 

Shoto nodded, looking back at Aimee. “I think so. I would like to purchase a record player please.” The owner nodded and led them over to his selection of record players. 

Aimee tapped Shoto on the shoulder, much to his surprise. “You don’t have to get a record player just because I said so,” she whispered as she walked next to him. 

His eyes softened as he gazed down at her worried expression. “But the music is more alive on the records, correct? I trust your expert opinion.”

The store owner cleared his throat before presenting his supply. “These are all the record players I have. They’re all great, but this guy here,” he patted the box on the far end of the shelf, “is the top of the line.” 

“I’ll take that one then.” Aimee took both his and her records in her arms, as Shoto carried the record player box to the front register. 

“Will it just be the player and records, sir?” the store owner asked as he rang him up. 

“Yes, and the lady’s records as well.” Shoto gently took all the records from her arms and placed them on the counter. 

“You don’t have to do that! I was the one that wanted to stop in here after all,” Aimee whisper-yelled, earning a chuckle from the hero. 

“I know I don’t have to, but I want to. Besides,” he continued in a playfully low voice, “I drive a spaceship, remember? I think I can handle it.”  

Now it was Aimee’s turn to giggle. “Touché.”

After making their purchases, the pair made their drive back to Aimee’s apartment. Shoto parked in front of her building and carried her records up the stairs as he walked Aimee to her door. Unfortunately, their evening was coming to an end. Aimee fiddled with her keys before she went to unlock the door, hoping to find something say. Shoto looked cool as a cucumber as he watched her carefully. She opened the door and turned to look back at him as he handed her the records. “Thank you for such a lovely evening. I really enjoyed it.” 

The shy smile on her face was enough to make Shoto’s heart melt. “The pleasure was all mine. You’ll text me about the school visitation?” 

Aimee nodded, maybe a little too eagerly, shifting her weight awkwardly. “Good. I look forward to hearing from you.” 

A familiar heat crept onto Shoto’s cheeks as he gently took her hand in his, before bringing it up to his lips for a soft kiss, his heterochromatic eyes never leaving her increasingly wide brown ones. “Until next time, Aimee. Have a good night.”

“G-god night… Goodnight,” Aimee studdered as she softly closed the door. Wow. A squeal left her lips as she leaned against the door and did a little happy dance. Oh my God! I just went on a date with Todoroki Shoto! And I didn’t make a complete fool of myself! She giggled to herself and looked at her hand. I am never washing this hand again. Aimee was too engrossed in her dating victory to notice the body that leaned against the doorframe of her hallway, stroking Mochi in their arms. 

“So… did we get lucky or what?”

“OH MY GOD HATSUME! I swear one day I am going to swing first and ask questions later!” Aimee screamed in shock as she held her wildly beating heart. 

“Yeah, yeah, but how did it go?!” 

Aimee smiled widely at her pink-haired friend, biting her lip. “Pull up a chair, girl.”

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

NOTE: This chapter is mildly spicy.

Pulling up against the curb, Todoroki parked his black Tesla before walking around to open the car door for Aimee. She looked up at him with a sigh, a large tubberware full of her famous beignets on her lap. With a soft smile, Shoto took the food in one hand before offering his other to her, Aimee taking it and rising from the vehicle.

“God, I’m so nervous,” Aimee mumbled as they walked up to the door of a traditional Japanese mansion. “Don’t be. Just be yourself. I’m sure they’ll love you,” Shoto paused before shrugging nonchalantly.  “Not that it matters.” “It does matter!” She pouted. “Being with you would be very difficult if your family hates me.” Aimee bit her bottom lip nervously as she smoothed down her skirt and adjusted her sweater so that no cleavage was showing. She was desperate to make a good impression. “My love,” Shoto looked down at her with a warm smile before placing a kiss to the crown of her head. “I think it’s physically impossible for anyone to hate you.” Giving her hand a quick squeeze, he reached over and knocked on the door.

After a few moments, they heard heavy footsteps approach the door. It opened to reveal Todoroki Enji dressed casually with a black t-shirt and dark wash jeans. His piercing blue eyes looked down on the couple before he welcomed them with a booming voice, “Ah, welcome. I’m glad you could make it. Please come in.”

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

NOTE: This chapter is mildly spicy.

The sun shined bright between the slits of the blinds as Todoroki’s eyes fluttered open. The room was quiet, with only the sound of the heater rumbling in the background. His chest felt heavy as he took in a deep breath before he heard a soft hum next to him. Turning his head, he laid his eyes on Aimee, still asleep in his arms, her head resting comfortably on his chest. He smiled at her softly, loving the sight. She was beautiful. Ethereal even. Shoto could definitely get used to this view. His fingers traced feather-light touches down her arm, as he took the rare opportunity to admire her without interruption. From this angle, he was able to study her face in a way he hadn’t before and find all new traits and features to fall in love with. Her long eyelashes, the small beauty mark on the right side of her nose, the way her plump lips slightly part when she’s sleeping. He especially liked how she would softly hum in her sleep. I wonder what she’s dreaming about. She looks so peaceful. He left a soft kiss on her forehead, before moving to slip out of bed, not wanting to interrupt her sleep. A quiet whine left Aimee’s lips as she unconsciously pulled Shoto closer to her. A soft chuckle escaped him as he quickly placed a pillow in her arms to take his place, Aimee squeezing it tight with a contented sigh. Cute. After throwing on a T-shirt and completing his morning grooming routine, Shoto made his way into the kitchen, deciding to make breakfast for his sleeping beauty.

Ch.1  Ch. 2 Chapter song

Prince Shoto: My apologies for keeping you waiting. It’s been a very busy week.

Prince Shoto: Would you happen to be available tonight for that date?

Prince Shoto: I know it’s short notice.

Aimee: Actually I am available. Have anything in mind?

Prince Shoto: I was thinking perhaps taking a cooking class together?

Aimee: Sure. I can eat. ;)

Prince Shoto: Great. Send me your address and I’ll pick you up around 6 pm.

Prince Shoto: See you soon.

————-

Hatsume burst through Aimee’s front door on a mission. “Show me the closet.” 

Aimee led her friend to her bedroom, throwing herself onto the bed. “I have no idea what to wear,” she groaned dramatically. 

“Well, where is he taking you?” Hatsume asked over her shoulder as she looked through her closet.” 

“A cooking class.” 

“Hmm… So maybe something that won’t stain easily,” the pink-haired woman hummed. ”So what kind of date are we hoping for huh?” 

Aimee sat up, leaning against her elbows as she quirked a brow. “What do you mean?” 

“What do you want your outfit to say? FOR EXAMPLE!” She pulled out a pastel pink sweater and a pair of jeans. “This says, ‘I’m here to get to know you and just have a good time.’” Next, she pulled out a fire engine red bodycon midi dress from the back of your closet. “But this says, ‘let’s skip straight to dessert, take me now.’” 

Aimee laughed nervously and took the scandalous dress back from her friend, stuffing it back into the closet. Why did I even buy this thing? “How about somewhere in the middle? I don’t want to give ‘take me now’ vibes but… it wouldn’t hurt to still look like a snack.” Aimee blushed at her statement before sitting back down at the edge of the bed. 

Hatsume nodded and dove back into her closet, pulling and tossing things out before handing her another outfit. “In that case, this is my pick. Go put it on!” She pushed the ravenette into the bathroom to change with a wide smile.

After changing, Aimee stepped out of her bathroom wearing a black off the shoulder bodysuit paired with a wine-colored flouncy mini skirt. She gave her friend a modest twirl before walking over to her full-length mirror. “I have to hand it to you, Mei, you know what you’re talking about. I didn’t expect that from a grease monkey,” She giggled, earning a playful smack on the shoulder from her friend. 

“Hey! This grease monkey cleans up well when she wants to!” 

Aimee turned around to check out her backside in the mirror. “Hmm. Are you sure about this skirt? Be honest, does my ass look too big? Volume vs surface area.”  

Hatsume hummed, tapping her chin and looking at her from all angles. “Surface area looks good. Not too wide, not too narrow.” she paused to look at her silhouette from the side. “Volume: it sticks enough to create a beautiful curve, without looking excessive. You’re a ‘big bootied beauty’ babe!” 

Aimee sighed and took her hand, gazing at her lovingly. “You get me.” 

“Of course I do. I’m a genius. Now let’s finish getting you all dolled up so you can catch you a man!”

The girls took their time getting Aimee ready when a knock on the door startled them back to reality. “That’s gotta be him… You can’t be here so just go back in the bedroom! There’s an extra key in the plant, so just lock up after you leave,” Aimee said while pushing her pink-haired friend towards the hallway. 

“Go get him girly!” Hatsume whispered with a wink. 

Aimee giggled lightly while walking back to the front door. She paused for a moment, brushing off her skirt, and adjusting her top so that just the right amount of cleavage was showing before opening the door.

There in all his glory, was Todoroki Shoto. He looked so handsome in his black turtle neck, as he flashed his signature small smile. “Hi.” Aimee couldn’t help the bright smile that appeared on her own lips as she took him in. 

“Hey.” A faint blush crossed his cheeks as he took in her appearance as well. She was breathtaking as usual, but the way her delicate décolletage was left exposed left him mesmerized. “You look beautiful.” Now it was Aimee’s turn to flush as she mumbled a soft thank you. “Shall we?” Todoroki offered his hand and she gladly took it.

After locking up and walking down the stairs to the street, Aimee looked at the parked cars aligning the curb, one wildly standing out. Todoroki took his keys out of his pocket, and with of a click of his keyfob, the car in question flashed its lights. Walking up to his Tesla Model X, he gave his keyfob another press and the front car door opened automatically, presenting its sleek leather interior. Man, this is a nice ass car, Aimee thought to herself as she slipped into the passenger seat. Shoto closed her door, before walking around to enter the car himself. 

“I didn’t know we’d be taking a spaceship on our date,” Aimee said with a small smirk as she eyed the large touchscreen display on the dashboard. 

Shoto quirked a brow as he pulled away from the curb. “You mean my car?” 

“Nope, pretty sure it’s a spaceship with wheels.” She giggled and it was music to his ears.

After arriving, Shoto escorted Aimee into the studio. They were greeted by the instructor and asked for their cocktail order. Aimee decided on a mojito while Shoto opted for an old fashioned. As they walked behind their cooking station, Aimee noticed a distinct lack of people. “Slow night tonight?” 

Shoto shook his head, nervously rubbing the back of his neck. “Actually, I rented out the place for the night. I thought you might enjoy the privacy.” 

A surprised look flashed across her face before a smile fell on her lips. “Oh, I’ve never had a place rented out for me before. Thanks.” She turned away, putting on her apron, in hopes of hiding her small blush.

The class menu was balsamic pork tenderloin and root vegetables. The two got to work, following the instructor’s directions. “So do you cook often?” Aimee asked as she trimmed the skin from the pork. 

“I like to, I wish could more often but patrols and paperwork often get in the way.” 

She hummed, looking up at the handsome hero beside her. “Hero work can be pretty time-consuming, huh?”  

Todoroki nodded while he chopped the veggies. “What about you?” 

“I love cooking. To me, food feeds the soul as well as the body.” She paused and chuckled to herself. “I also just love to eat, so I gotta love to cook by proxy.” 

Todoroki gave her a small smile as he started to season the vegetables, his eyes slyly taking in the sight of her thick thighs. You certainly don’t get those curves by skipping meals. He shook his head at his own naughty thoughts. “So what do you do for a living?” 

“I’m a middle school teacher.” 

Ah, that would explain the classroom picture on her Instagram. Shoto watched as she seared the meat in a hot skillet. “Teachers do not get enough credit. Especially middle school teachers. I know I was a huge brat at the age.” The sound of Aimee’s soft giggle surprised the hero as he looked into her large eyes. 

“Now that’s rich, coming from the most polite man I’ve ever met.”  

A smirk tugged at the corner of his lips as he turned his body toward her, effectively towering over her small frame. “You would be surprised. You’re not the only one here with a smart mouth.”

Aimee’s mind went blank as she stared up at the peppermint haired man. Did he just say what I think he said? Shit, that was smooth. They both held each other’s gaze, not saying another word. It almost felt as if neither of them took a breath, gaging each other’s reactions. It wasn’t until Aimee felt a sharp pain on her hand that she was brought out of the moment. “Ow!” She held her hand, having burned it on the hot skillet. 

“Here, let me.” Shoto gently took her hand into his, resting his right hand on top of the burn. He activated his quirk, becoming her personal ice pack. 

She smiled, feeling relief instantly. “Thank you.” 

Shoto gave her another small smile before letting her hand slip through his. “My pleasure.” 

Aimee smiled cheekily as she examined her hand, seeing her opening. “My hero to the rescue.” 

Shoto flushed a deep red at her comment. Her hero? Well, I certainly wouldn’t object. He quickly went back to preparing the meal, in hopes of hiding his red cheeks.

After putting the food into the oven, Shoto led Aimee over to a sitting area, to finish their now, second round cocktails. “So tell me more about your teaching career. I’m quite curious.”  

Aimee sipped her mojito as she crossed her legs. She didn’t miss the quick glance of Todoroki’s eyes at her thighs. Thank you, Hatsume. “Well, I love kids, so it seemed like a natural choice. I like being a positive influence on them during such a vulnerable time.” Aimee gasped as she remembered something, somewhat startling Shoto. “Actually, next week we’re having a Q&A for the kids. We’re inviting professionals to come in and explain how knowing English helps them in the workforce.” She nervously twiddled her thumbs as she continued in a soft voice. “I almost hate to ask, but would you be willing to come by and talk to the kids? I know they would be so excited.”  

Shoto instinctively knew she had a kind heart. But seeing her put herself out there for the benefit of her students really struck a chord in him. “I would love to.” A bright smile crossed her face that reflected into her eyes. Shoto never stood a chance. He would do anything for that smile.

After finishing their meal, they both entered the spaceship/car to drive Aimee home. The ravenette was bopping her head along to the radio when she saw a familiar storefront approaching. “Wait, do you mind if we stop here for a bit?” Shoto pulled over without hesitation, curious of what caught her eye. Opening the door for her, they walked into an old music store. Shoto followed behind an excited Aimee as she practically skipped down the aisles. “Here we are,” she smiled as she flipped through some old records, the sign above her head reading “Jazz.” 

Shoto peered over her shoulder, looking at the list of names she was flipping through. “So you’re a music fan?” 

Aimee hummed and nodded eagerly. “Yeah, I love collecting old jazz records. Reminds me of home. Do you ever listen to jazz?” 

He shook his head sheepishly. “I can’t say I have. I have to admit I don’t know the first thing about it.”

Aimee gasped with wide eyes as she put down the records and dragged him over to a listening station. “Well, then welcome to Jazz 101! The cool thing about jazz is it’s one of the only art forms that is distinctly American.” Todoroki nodded as he put the headphones over his ears. “Here, let’s start you out with one of my favorites.” She smiled as she pressed the play button on Ella Fitzgerald’s and Louis Armstrong’s “Dream a Little Dream of Me.” The sound of a trumpet filled his ears and a velvety woman’s voice soon followed. The smooth and soft melody enticed him, but it was really the lyrics that swayed him the most. Aimee looked up into his heterochromatic eyes expectantly. “Well, you like it?” 

Shoto couldn’t help the smile that pulled at his lips as he looked down at this woman full of surprises. “I do.” He pulled off the headphones and placed them back on the rack. “What other artists would you recommend to start my jazz collection?” 

Aimee smiled and tapped her chin. “My favorites are Ella Fitzgerald, Cab Calloway, Billie Holiday… just for starters.” He nodded and started to look for those artists in the CD racks. “But, jazz is best enjoyed on a record. The music is more alive.” Todoroki hummed, walking back over to the record section, Aimee following behind. Aimee picked out a few records for herself as Todoroki found his picks. 

The store owner walked up to them with a warm smile. “Finding everything ok?” 

Shoto nodded, looking back at Aimee. “I think so. I would like to purchase a record player please.” The owner nodded and led them over to his selection of record players. 

Aimee tapped Shoto on the shoulder, much to his surprise. “You don’t have to get a record player just because I said so,” she whispered as she walked next to him. 

His eyes softened as he gazed down at her worried expression. “But the music is more alive on the records, correct? I trust your expert opinion.”

The store owner cleared his throat before presenting his supply. “These are all the record players I have. They’re all great, but this guy here,” he patted the box on the far end of the shelf, “is the top of the line.” 

“I’ll take that one then.” Aimee took both his and her records in her arms, as Shoto carried the record player box to the front register. 

“Will it just be the player and records, sir?” the store owner asked as he rang him up. 

“Yes, and the lady’s records as well.” Shoto gently took all the records from her arms and placed them on the counter. 

“You don’t have to do that! I was the one that wanted to stop in here after all,” Aimee whisper-yelled, earning a chuckle from the hero. 

“I know I don’t have to, but I want to. Besides,” he continued in a playfully low voice, “I drive a spaceship, remember? I think I can handle it.”  

Now it was Aimee’s turn to giggle. “Touché.”

After making their purchases, the pair made their drive back to Aimee’s apartment. Shoto parked in front of her building and carried her records up the stairs as he walked Aimee to her door. Unfortunately, their evening was coming to an end. Aimee fiddled with her keys before she went to unlock the door, hoping to find something say. Shoto looked cool as a cucumber as he watched her carefully. She opened the door and turned to look back at him as he handed her the records. “Thank you for such a lovely evening. I really enjoyed it.” 

The shy smile on her face was enough to make Shoto’s heart melt. “The pleasure was all mine. You’ll text me about the school visitation?” 

Aimee nodded, maybe a little too eagerly, shifting her weight awkwardly. “Good. I look forward to hearing from you.” 

A familiar heat crept onto Shoto’s cheeks as he gently took her hand in his, before bringing it up to his lips for a soft kiss, his heterochromatic eyes never leaving her increasingly wide brown ones. “Until next time, Aimee. Have a good night.”

“G-god night… Goodnight,” Aimee studdered as she softly closed the door. Wow. A squeal left her lips as she leaned against the door and did a little happy dance. Oh my God! I just went on a date with Todoroki Shoto! And I didn’t make a complete fool of myself! She giggled to herself and looked at her hand. I am never washing this hand again. Aimee was too engrossed in her dating victory to notice the body that leaned against the doorframe of her hallway, stroking Mochi in their arms. 

“So… did we get lucky or what?”

“OH MY GOD HATSUME! I swear one day I am going to swing first and ask questions later!” Aimee screamed in shock as she held her wildly beating heart. 

“Yeah, yeah, but how did it go?!” 

Aimee smiled widely at her pink-haired friend, biting her lip. “Pull up a chair, girl.”

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

Note: This chapter is mildly spicy.

Relaxing on the couch, Aimee stroked her fat cat Mochi, as she flipped through Netflix trying to find a new show to watch. “What do you think, Mochi? Violet Evergarden or The Confession Tapes of Ted Bundy?” Mochi let out a meow in response as she chuckled to herself, rolling up the sleeves of her oversized hoodie. “Yeah I know, I’m pretty weird. Bundy it is.” Just as she was about to start the program, she heard a familiar knock on her door.

Getting up and walking to the door, she answered it with a wide smile. “Hey, mon cher! You’re just in time for some Netflix binging.” Her smile faltered as she noticed her beau wasn’t alone. She shot him a confused look, before Shoto let out a small chuckle, realizing how strange this must look. “May we please come in? I’ll explain in a moment.”

Trusting Shoto completely, Aimee nodded, allowing them entry. As Shoto walked inside, Aimee noticed he had a garment bag draped over his arm, which he then laid over the arm of her couch. Behind Todoroki, two women also entered the apartment, wheeling in carts full of supplies. “What’s all this?” Aimee asked, looking to her beau. “Ever heard of the Hero Ball?” Shoto questioned as he strolled up to her, a small smile on his face. “The night when Japan’s best and brightest heroes get together for the party of the year as well as get acknowledged for their heroism? Um, yeah. I used to watch the red carpet every year on TV.” Rolling his eyes at her sarcasm, Shoto continued, “Well, it’s tonight and I’d like you to be my date.” Aimee stared at him, dumbfounded as she tilted her head in disbelief.

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

Aimee couldn’t sleep after Todoroki had left. Lying in her bed she tossed and turned before looking at her alarm clock on her bedside table. 4:00 am. She groaned, finally getting out of bed and walking into her kitchen.  Since she couldn’t sleep anyway, Aimee decided to get a head start on her favorite dessert and sometimes shameless breakfast item: beignets. Taking out a large mixing bowl and all her ingredients, she began to mix yeast, water, milk, sugar, salt, and eggs until they were blended well. As she worked, she felt her body and mind finally relax, her muscle memory kicking in and having a true zen moment late in the night. As she added the flour and shortening, she heard a familiar meow at her feet, Mochi alerting her to his presence. “Hello, pretty kitty. I know, mama is keeping you up huh?”  She sighed as she continued to mix the dough. “I think I might have messed up, Mochi. I’m sending Shoto all kinds of mixed signals. I just don’t want to lose him.” Mochi let out an annoyed meow as he weaved between her legs, earning a small chuckle from the ravenette. “Don’t worry, you won’t be replaced, little man. You really should give him a chance though. Prissy pussy isn’t a good look on you.”  She smiled and covered the bowl of dough with plastic wrap before putting it into the fridge to chill and let the yeast rise. Picking up the fat cat with a grunt, she walked back into her bedroom in hopes of catching a few more Z’s before daybreak.

The next morning, Aimee was still pretty restless having not gotten much sleep. She once again returned to the solace of her kitchen, deciding to treat herself to more of favorite comfort foods: gumbo and cornbread. She had a large pot of the seafood stew simmering on her stovetop as she finished up mixing her dough for the cornbread. As she placed the pan into the oven, she heard a knock on her door. I wonder who that could be? Upon opening the door, she was meet with her favorite pair heterochromatic eyes, but this time they held a kind of sadness that looked foreign to her. Panning down, she noticed he had a large bouquet of red and white roses in his hand. “Shoto, this is a surprise.” The hero bowed deeply before speaking.“I wanted to apologize for last night. I pushed you too far physically and took advantage of your situation.” He paused, offering the flowers to her. “These are for you. The florist said the red represents love and white purity. I’m willing to wait for you, even until marriage if that’s what you wish.” Aimee’s heart ached, watching the man she loved. What happened last night was in no way his fault and the thought that he had been worried he had offended her was killing her. She held the flowers in her hands and let out a deep sigh. “Oh, mon cher… They’re beautiful. But you have the wrong idea.” Shoto gave her a confused look although he was greatly relieved to still hear the beloved pet name she had bestowed upon him. He must not have screwed up too much for her to still call him that. Aimee stepped aside as she gestured with her free hand, “Please come in.”

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

NOTE: This chapter is mildly spicy.

The sun shined bright between the slits of the blinds as Todoroki’s eyes fluttered open. The room was quiet, with only the sound of the heater rumbling in the background. His chest felt heavy as he took in a deep breath before he heard a soft hum next to him. Turning his head, he laid his eyes on Aimee, still asleep in his arms, her head resting comfortably on his chest. He smiled at her softly, loving the sight. She was beautiful. Ethereal even. Shoto could definitely get used to this view. His fingers traced feather-light touches down her arm, as he took the rare opportunity to admire her without interruption. From this angle, he was able to study her face in a way he hadn’t before and find all new traits and features to fall in love with. Her long eyelashes, the small beauty mark on the right side of her nose, the way her plump lips slightly part when she’s sleeping. He especially liked how she would softly hum in her sleep. I wonder what she’s dreaming about. She looks so peaceful. He left a soft kiss on her forehead, before moving to slip out of bed, not wanting to interrupt her sleep. A quiet whine left Aimee’s lips as she unconsciously pulled Shoto closer to her. A soft chuckle escaped him as he quickly placed a pillow in her arms to take his place, Aimee squeezing it tight with a contented sigh. Cute. After throwing on a T-shirt and completing his morning grooming routine, Shoto made his way into the kitchen, deciding to make breakfast for his sleeping beauty.

Previous Chapter | Chapter Song

“I think I have an envie for something sweet. What about you, mon cher?” Shoto and Aimee walked hand in hand down the busy Tokyo streets up to a row of food trucks. Her tears long dried from their earlier heart to heart, Shoto was thrilled to see her smile once again. “Envie?” he questioned, looking down at her with a quirked brow. “It’s means hunger or craving.” Aimee tapped her chin with a small smirk. “You know, maybe you should take a few French lessons? Then you can understand more of my hodgepodge of a native tongue,” she flicked her tongue at him mock-seductively. “Do you know…. Voulez-vous coucher avec moi, ce soir?” The peppermint haired man sucked in a breath, his face reddening before mumbling. “That one I do know…”

It didn’t take Aimee long to find her choice: fruit crepes. Strolling up to the truck window, the pair ordered a large strawberry banana crepe to share. Why not end their evening with yummy dessert? “That will be 1,000 yen,” the cashier said with a smile as he put in the order. Shoto reached into his suit jacket and pulled out his wallet, ready to pay when he noticed his love give him the evil eye. “No, no, no… Put your money away. I don’t even want to know how much money you just spent on me, so no. I got this,” Aimee protested as she pulled out her debit card from her coat pocket. Shaking his head, Shoto caught her hand, a small smile on his lips, “Please, let me. I don’t mind.” He offered his card to the cashier. “Here, sir.” Aimee scowled at her beau, pointing her finger right at his nose. “Shoto, I swear if you don’t put that away, you will get all sorts of bad gris-gris coming your way!” The hero chuckled lowly in his throat, sizing up his challenger, “You’re making threats now?” A sweet smile graced Aimee’s lips as her fingers slowly walked up his chest. “Oh, darling…” She gripped his tie pulling him down closer to her face, much to his surprise. “Not a threat, a promise.” Fuck me. Shoto cleared his throat as he willed his libido to calm down, Aimee now offering her card to the cashier as well. The cashier, deciding it’s a man’s role to pay for his lady, started to reach for Shoto’s card only to met with Aimee’s look of daggers. “Don’t. You. Dare.” With a shudder he quickly took her card, bowing his head slightly to the hero. “Sorry man, she’s just scarier than you.” The ravenette looked over to her shoulder to Shoto with the smuggest expression he had ever seen, causing him to smirk in turn. For once he didn’t mind getting bested. “I’ll have to remember that.”

After receiving the crepe, the pair started to walk back towards the car. Aimee took a generous bite of her sweet treat with a smile. “Mmm so yummy!” Shoto smiled, wrapping a strong arm around her waist. “I’m glad you like it, my love.” “Here, have a bite!”  He leaned down to take a bite as they walked past a dark empty alleyway. Shoto felt a rush of wind whip towards him, alerting him to an impending foe. “Watch out!”

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