#dekushou

🌸 My Hero Academia Light Novel 6 🌸

Short translation from Chapter 2, the Valentine’s Day chapter

“What are you guys doing?” Todoroki said, approaching them with a big cardboard box in his arms.

“Todoroki-kun, what’s that?” Midoriya asked.

“I don’t know why but I got chocolate sent to me,” Todoroki answered.

“What!? All of that!?” Midoriya replied.

“Yeah, there’s no way I can eat it all.”

Todoroki placed the cardboard box on the floor and opened it. It was filled with all kinds of cute and colorful Valentine’s chocolates. 

“Wow!” Ochako said in amazement.

“But I don’t know why people I don’t even know would suddenly send me all of this.” Todoroki said, sounding puzzled.

“Maybe they were sent by people who saw your TV interview? The one you did with Kacchan when you two captured some villains right after getting your provisional license!” Izuku said.

“Oh yeah! That was a pretty popular interview!” said one of the girls.

“Oh! The one Bakugo-kun was totally cut from!” Iida recalled.

“Shitty glasses! Don’t remind me of that!” 

“Oh, right,” Todoroki suddenly remembered something and started searching his pockets as Bakugo yelled at Iida. Todoroki then pulled out two small chocolate candies from his pocket. They were low price candies you can buy individually.

“Midoriya, Iida, here.” Todoroki said, handing the candy to Izuku and Iida.

“Eh? Thanks.”

“But why?”

Izuku and Iida looked confused, so Todoroki explained.

“I heard from Yaoyorozu. You give your friends chocolate on Valentine’s Day right?”

“Todoroki-kun…!!” Both Izuku and Iida exclaimed.

“Todoroki-san…!” Yaoyorozu reacted.

Izuku and Iida shook with excitement and Yaoyorozu was touched. Everyone watched the show of pure friendship with a smile, except Bakugo who was disgusted by the scene.

“Friendship is so great isn’t it…” Hagakure said, and everyone except for Bakugo nodded in agreement. Izuku and Iida then gasped.

“I-I’m going to go buy the same chocolates from the school store!” said Izuku.

“I’m going too! We have to get chocolate for our friends!” said Iida.

The two of them then dashed off towards the school store looking happy, and Todoroki watched them leave with a soft expression on his face. The other classmates watching couldn’t help but smile, thinking about how much Todoroki has changed from the boy who wouldn’t open up to anyone at the start of the school year.

AN:

First of all, I'm sorry if it looked like Midoriya and Todoroki would have gone through with their fight, that isn't what I meant at all. And Midoriya already gave an order back there, soya.

And just a heads up, I want to be clear to all of you that I don't hate Bakugou. (LOL! That's exactly what someone who hates Bakugou would say. xD But seriously...) I just don't think he's done enough to redeem himself canon-wise. I just want more from him, that's all. So, please don't take offense. I just figured it would be nice to exploit that little weakness everyone seems to be forgetting. In this story, he will serve as the passive-aggressive wingman. Like, the devil on their shoulders. ;3

"Raison D'être"

Chapter 06: Hanging Heavy.

Even though Todoroki was the one who forfeited, the one who gave up and surrendered. Midoriya was the one who walked away in tears, the one who ultimately lost. And the worst part was not that he knew continuing the fight wouldn't have changed the outcome, it was the fact that he knew Todoroki wasn't wrong. Well, he knew he wasn't wrong either but... it was just sad. The sad and pathetic reality that the strong have the privilege to do whatever they want with their power. While weak people like him, are left to struggle for as much as they can without ever really getting anything out of it. Feelings, reason, and circumstances don't matter after all. Not when the result doesn't offer change.

Todoroki advanced to the next round, and even though no one seems to be happy about this development, including the audience, the show went on. Midoriya didn't go back to the stands right away, choosing to spend time by himself to cool off. Thinking about how he would have to explain to All Might everything that happened, regardless of whether everything was broadcasted live on national television. And then there was Endeavor. But he didn't want to think about that yet. After a couple more battles, Todoroki's next fight was announced, and the green-haired teen made his way back out to watch the rest of the competition. Everyone seemed to be giving him concerned looks as he made his way to the front of their seats. He slid down beside Kirishima, which he belatedly realized was a mistake.

"Dude, are you okay?" The redhead tried to reach out a comforting hand, but decided against it halfway.

"Do I look okay?" Midoriya was gritting his teeth, but it's not like he meant to be rude. He just doesn't really want to talk about it right now.

"Yeah, well I mean..." Kirishima sank back.

But before Midoriya thought they would finally leave him alone for now, Kaminari spoke from behind them. "Dude, you just like, rejected the prettiest boy in class! On national tv!"

Midoriya felt incredulous. "That's what you're worried about?"

"Well yeah, dude. Because you broke your Bocchan's heart..." Kaminari continued, as if not getting a hint.

"Which is so not manly by the way, not that we didn't get your point." Kirishima took the blond's side, recoiling after being glared at.

The green-haired teen shakes his head with a sigh. "Oh, my God... I'm not gonna stand for this."

Midoriya stands from his seat before Kaminari could retort about how he was actually sitting, only to stop in his tracks as the biggest iceberg he's ever seen erupted out of nowhere.

As it turns out, it came from his Bocchan, who had just won his fight against Sero. They didn't even notice the fight started, thanks to the duo, not that it mattered or changed anything.

"See, Midoriya? You made Todoroki upset." Kaminari really needs to put a sock in it.

"Man, remind me never to get on his bad side." Kirishima comments, before a string of 'Don't Mind' erupted from the rest of the audience.

But Midoriya just stared, unaffected. He knew this wasn't his Bocchan's best yet.

It didn't take long until there were only two contenders left. Todoroki and Bakugou. The audience roared in cheers as the two made their way on either side of the arena, a mix of suspense and tension palpable among class 1-A.

"So, who do you think'll win, Midoriya?" Kaminari leans on his backrest, he really needs to respect personal space.

"Bocchan, of course." The green-haired teen answers with a huff, he's had his arms crossed and mouth in a pout since Sero's fight because of their teasing. And no one's letting up.

"How do you know?" Kirishima asked from beside him, hoping for some smart analysis like the freckled teen usually gives.

But that wasn't the case for this one. "Because I told him so." Midoriya's face didn't show confidence or pride, he just looked like someone stating a fact.

Kaminari and Kirishima glanced at each other with an awkward smile before looking back at the arena, just in time to see Todoroki attack first with a huge whirlwind of cold wind. Not ice. And it wasn't even directed at Bakugou, but upwards to the great expanse above them. It looked like a hurricane, it felt like it too, spreading chilly air around the stadium in powerful gusts, with Todoroki at the eye of the storm.

The view cleared out soon enough to reveal the two standing in the middle of the arena as they had before, Todoroki's first attack not seeming to have any effect at all. But the bi-haired kid's words seem to imply completely otherwise. "Sorry, Bakugou. But Izuku asked me to win so I will."

"No way in hell, you half-ass fucktard." Bakugou remained in a defensive stance, preparing to attack at any given chance. Except he might not get one, he realized that belatedly as he felt a shiver travel up his spine. Todoroki was just standing there, in front of him. But it's not like he needed to move or say anything for him to understand what was really going on. He already felt it. It was cold, his breath coming out in white puffs. "Man, I really hate your type."

And as the rest of the people in the stadium slowly registered the sudden drop in temperature, the first flake of snow fell overhead.

"Holy-!" Kirishima stood gaping at the dark and cloudy sky, they didn't even notice when the weather changed. "It's snowing!"

"Todoroki made it snow in the middle of summer!" Kaminari exclaimed, hands pulling on his hair.

"I don't get it, so what?" Mineta wrapped his arms around himself, shivering. "That attack didn't do anything, now it's just cold."

Yaoyorozu was the kind soul who offered an explanation, as well as the one who started making space blankets for everyone. "Well, I mean. Bakugou's explosion comes from the nitroglycerin in his sweat so..."

"That means-!" Kaminari turned back to the fight. "This snow is-!"

"Oh, my God..." Kirishima palms around his mouth. "Bakugou! Don't lose! Do your best!"

From beside him, Midoriya falls rigid, but not from the cold. He knows he should probably be feeling responsible for this, and he will probably feel guilty if Bakugou does end up losing. But it's not like it was a big secret, everyone knew. And it's not like the blond actually took care in hiding the limitations of his quirk. Still, Midoriya was not expecting his Bocchan to go all out like this. He's seen him make snow before, but this was just on a whole different level. The scale of the snow covered the entire stadium, and he was sure it went well throughout the school grounds. But how? Well, he was never really sure of the extent of his Bocchan's quirk, still this feels a little too over the top. The hurricane didn't feel enough to cause a snowstorm at all. So where did all this came from?

Midoriya went slack as the realization slowly dawned him, unconsciously mumbling to himself. "It was from the big iceberg from the fight with Sero... Bocchan didn't melt the ice into water, he vaporized it. He had it planned all along... He knew Bakugou could blow up his ice, but not every single piece of snow, not the cold weather, not the sky, and not when he had just blasted his all during the fight with Uraraka. Kacchan doesn't have a second quirk that can counter the weakness of the other. And we weren't allowed to wear our costumes so he doesn't have stock either. He could try forcing the sweat out, but pores in the skin close up when its cold..."

"Man, Midoriya... you're painting a really grim picture there." Kirishima breaks him out of his trance.

"But if Bakugou can't use his quirk then..." Kaminari looks towards them.

"This is practically a fight between someone who has two quirks and one who can't use any." Yaoyorozu finishes for him.

"Bakugou's practically quirkless." Mineta couldn't help muttering.

And that finally strikes a cord through Midoriya. Now he regrets it.

But seriously, his Bocchan is showing how great the gap really is. After all, the difference between being Number One and Number Two is not just one point.

"If it's cold enough, Kacchan won't sweat."

Todoroki wasn't paying much attention at the time, but that doesn't mean he didn't get it. It was simple enough to understand, it had always been a given. Now he had the advantage and he could probably win. But that doesn't mean Bakugou would make it easy for him. The resident Bomberman blasted his way towards him, attacking relentlessly albeit with weaker explosions. Todoroki knew Bakugou would not let up, but it took him great care to summon diamond dust, and even more to blast ice fog. He's not exactly having it easy as one might think. Still, he knew he could not use regular ice as much as he wants, and definitely not his fire lest he risks losing. So he went on the defense, nullifying Bakugou's explosions by blowing cold gusts while forming ice shields and attacking subtly by continuously lowering the temperature. He would not dare let the other get near enough, and he has to work quickly. It was really just a matter of how long Bakugou endured.

For some reason though, the blond's explosions were only getting stronger. As if he was using them to warm himself, and the relentless movement is making contributions. Todoroki definitely wouldn't put it past him, he was just as stubborn as a rock. It was also hard on Todoroki because the sun was working against him. Sure he managed to summon dark clouds, but there's a big bright summer sun right above that and he didn't know for how long he could manage to keep the snow falling. He knew it probably would have been impossible to make it snow in the first place if he didn't vaporize that iceberg. It was a good thing he came prepared, but now it seems a battle of endurance would not go to his favor. He needed to take down Bakugou before the blond could completely warm himself up. So Todoroki does the same, vaporizing the frost all over his body. And when Bakugou jumps for a bigger attack, Todoroki summons a mountain of ice from the entire arena and turns it into an avalanche, making sure Bakugou gets toppled over.

But when the fog clears, Bakugou is still holding on, glaring up at him as if looks could kill. The blond holds himself up and directs both of his fists on Todoroki, his limbs were shaking but he was obviously planning for a big explosion. That's when Todoroki decides to screw it and just blow up all the ice in fire. The air expanded and everything gets blown away. Bakugou notwithstanding.

It had been an exceptional performance if one should say, because if Midoriya wanted a show then Todoroki would deliver. He looked up at the audience as if seeking approval, and evergreen eyes met him squarely in a solemn gaze. The crowd around him suddenly cheered, albeit muted to his ears, belatedly making him realize that Midnight has just made her proclamation.

Todoroki won. [1]

They proceeded to the awarding ceremony immediately afterwards. But Midoriya decided not to join them on the field, remaining where he sat the entire time, watching from afar.

And with good reason too, as a bulky man in flames decides to join him shortly.

"I'll admit that wasn't what I was expecting," Endeavor started. "But I guess you did what you were supposed to..."

"Please don't say things like that, Uncle Enji." Midoriya doesn't spare the big man a glance, if he does he knows he'll only get scared. "You make it sound like we conspired for this to happen."

Endeavor huffs. "The important thing is that Shouto won, I couldn't care less about anything else."

Midoriya struggles to say anything anymore after that, and they keep the silence as they watch All Might present Torodoki with a gold medal.

"Bocchan confessed to me..." He says as if he's only realizing it now.

"So I heard." The man grits his teeth, and suddenly it's getting a little too hot.

The green-haired teen sweats, but he keeps his mouth shut this time.

Endeavor continues. "Reject him."

Midoriya gulps, but doesn't miss a beat. "I already did."

The flaming man spares him a glance then, and after a while, he speaks again. "I don't care what kind of quirk you managed to get your hands on, but with what little I've seen so far I wouldn't be against seeing a fight between the two of you someday. I'll let him decide when you're ready..." He begins to trail off before adding as an afterthought. "Just whatever you do, don't drag Shouto down with you."

"Of course." The child was quick to answer, meek, and apprehensive.

Endeavor heaves a deep breath. "But it's good that you got a quirk, we all know mere effort isn't and cannot be enough."

It was then when Midoriya finally looked at him albeit cautiously, but he still couldn't find words to say because there was no telling if that was a compliment or not, he just never knows where he stands with this man.

The much bigger man huffs, but he doesn't look back. "I admit, it was surprising to see you win the obstacle race without using a quirk, I don't know anyone else in Yuuei's history to have ever done so."

That was definitely a compliment, he guesses. It sounded positive enough. Midoriya could cry. "Uncle Enji... what if you didn't need to be Number One?"

It was out of the blue, but he's always thought about it. Endeavor was the only one who truly, and desperately chased after All Might. Despite the assurance of failure, and in spite of just the fact. It was an unhealthy obsession. Crazy, and out of touch. But still.

The flaming man fully regards him then, eyes burning though the expression is stone cold. He looks away.

"A hero's job is to save and protect, right? Why is that not good enough?" The green-haired teen pushes on, because even All Might yearned for victory.

"Some people just want to be the best at what they do." Endeavor's voice came low and tired, then he stands to leave and turns to his back to walk off. "Work harder."

Midoriya smiles sadly, sometimes words of encouragement work negatively and only increases pressure, especially when you already know you're doing your best. He manages to whisper back. "You too..."

He wasn't sure if the flaming man heard him or not, but if he did, he gave no indication. [2]

Bakugou watched in great irritation as Todoroki was presented a gold medal by All Might, the Number One Hero congratulated him, and all the half-ass bastard could do was mumble a thanks in gratitude. The nerve of that fucker, looking like he was about to cry in grief when he was the one who actually won. Where does he think he's looking at anyway?

Bakugou followed Todoroki's faraway gaze to see Midoriya crying on the bleachers, Endeavor was walking away from him.

What the fuck?

He had always been curious of what kind of life Deku had to live with the Todorokis, now even more so. The green-haired fucker seemed to be fine. He still acted like a wimp, just noisier now more than ever. Not that he cared, mind you.

The ceremony wrapped up, and they were free to go immediately. He followed after the half-ass bastard for some fucking reason and stopped to talk to him when they got into a secluded area.

"What the fuck was that about, half-ass?"

Todoroki stopped and turned to give him a black stare, well at least he wasn't too out of it to notice him. "What?"

This guy really makes his head throb. "Not 'what', you fucker. I saw Deku with your father, and he was crying. What kind of a relationship do they have anyway?"

Todoroki blinked. "The lack thereof."

Bakugou gritted his teeth, the bastard wasn't helping any. "Aren't you going to fight for him?"

"I always do."

The blond got a little miffed, but that was a good thing. He pushes on. "Even after he rejected you?"

"I told Midoriya I liked him, because I wanted him to know." The bi-haired teen lowers his gaze. "I'm not obliging him to return my feelings, I don't even need an answer."

Silence.

To say Bakugou was creeped out was an understatement, that sounded like something he wasn't supposed to know. Not like he thought ill of the half-ass fucktard, in fact he held him in some regard, being the person he has to defeat to prove he was the best. Still, he was not expecting the other would be the type that just blurted things out. It was good he wasn't just blinking at him though.

He scoffs, shoving both hands in his pockets. "I didn't think I could win against you the first time I saw your quirk... but I will next time for sure." He changed subjects, there was nothing more to say.

Todoroki just blinks at him again. "Sure."

Midoriya didn't come to sleep with Todoroki later that night, or the next night, or the night after that. In fact, they hadn't spoken at all with each other since the Sports Festival. They didn't even approach each other, all the while pretending to be normal. But who were they kidding, they were blatantly avoiding each other. And it was so awkwardly painful for the rest of everyone, they suffer.

It had only been three days, but you could clearly see the negative effects already. Both had dark bags under their bloodshot eyes, unkempt hair, and they yawn all the time, as if they never get any sleep. It would've been cute had they done it beside each other, but they just run away every time the other enters the same room. They used to be beside each other all the time, practically attached to each other's hip, you wouldn't think of one without the other. But now, they can't even meet each other in the eyes. Sitting in class equally unattentive and distracted, or moping.

"This is getting fucking ridiculous! Somebody punch the both of them or I will." Bakugou swears as he continued to glare at Todoroki, who was nibbling on some ice while staring at his phone.

"Just give them more time, they have to sort this out on their own." Kirishima was the ever kind soul.

"But it's so fucking annoying! If I have to listen to Deku's pathetic sobbing one more night, I swear I'll murder him!"

"Aww, come on, Kacchan. Don't be like that," The blond's glare turns to Kirishima at the nickname, but the redhead just laughs it off.

"Hey, I just noticed..." Kaminari suddenly speaks from Bakugou's other side. "Why is Todoroki eating his ice?"

"Oh, yeah... I saw him do that yesterday too." Kirishima nodded.

"Let's ask him then," Sero stood from behind Kaminari and walked half the room to get to the bi-haired kid's seat, anything to redirect Bakugou's attention. "Heya, Todoroki! Why are you eating your ice?" Straight to the point without any beats, or tact.

Todoroki blinks at him, but answers truthfully. "Because I'm hungry."

"Come to think of it, it is already lunch time." Sero looks at the clock.

"Then why don't you just buy food from the cafeteria?" Kaminari appears beside them. "If you want, you can even eat with us."

"No, he can't-"

Kirishima covered Bakugou's mouth and added. "Yeah! It'd be cool to have you around!"

They managed to snicker at their own stupid joke before Todoroki answered. "I can't go to the cafeteria because Izuku will be there, and I don't want to make him uncomfortable."

"Oh, my God! You poor creature! You've been starving this whole time!" Kaminari exasperates.

"Hold on! I'll go get you some food!" Kirishima proclaimed, and without another word, ran out through the door.

"We should probably buy lunch now too..." Kaminari glanced at Sero before following after Kirishima.

Sero looked back at Bakugou. "You coming?"

"No, just get me something spicy." Bakugou sits on Mineta's desk.

"Will do!" Sero gives him a thumbs up before leaving as well.

A momentary silence passes by the two before Todoroki breaks it. "I don't know how you have friends."

"Well excuse you, asshole, I'm a fucking delight!"

Todoroki just blinks at him, this time he doesn't even dignify Bakugou by humoring him with a 'sure'.

And after another moment of silence Bakugou almost explodes. "You know this is all your fault, right? He's acting like that because you spoiled him."

"You think so?" Todoroki asks but doesn't raise his head.

"I know so! He wasn't like that when we were kids." Bakugou leans back on his arms. "Before he was just a blubbering annoyance, now he's a cheeky blubbering annoyance!"

Todoroki chuckled, even just the thought of his charge lifted him up.

"You can cry, you know." The blond glances at him. "I'm gonna laugh at you, but you can cry."

"I won't... if I cry Izuku would feel guilty and sorry for me."

"So what are you going to do? Just continue staring at his pictures on your phone like a fucking stalker?"

Todoroki smiles sadly. "Maybe... I don't want him to catch me looking at him."

"Fucking creep."

"What do you think I should do, then?" The bi-haired teen sighs.

"Fucking talk to him obviously! Instead of causing troubles for the rest of us!"

Todoroki sighs again and relents. "My bad... I just don't think he's ready to talk to me yet."

"He's fucking fine, he even whines about you every night."

That was when the bi-haired teen finally looks at Bakugou, thinking that all this time Midoriya didn't come to sleep with him, he was with Bakugou.

"He comes to join me, Kirishima, Kaminari, and Sero to talk about you, fucker. Don't get any stupid ideas."

Todoroki breaks eye contact as soon as the message sinks in, and turns his head away in embarrassment. "My bad," he repeats.

The trio gets back then, as if summoned, and they let the conversation die. [3]

Later that night, Midoriya comes to Bakugou's room again with Kirishima, Kaminari and Sero. He plops down on the bed and grabs a pillow to try and suffocate himself since he's been nothing but dying since the Sports Festival, so he might as well. He's been so exhausted lately, having a hard time sleeping and nothing cheers him up, even with his mind plagued by his Bocchan, or maybe that's exactly the reason.

"So... how are you holding up, Midoriya?" Kaminari was the first to break the silence, taking a seat beside him.

Midoriya doesn't answer, he just grumbles and whines.

"Todoroki actually asked me to check if you were okay, because he doesn't want to approach you himself and make you uncomfortable," Kaminari confessed with a little tease. "And of course he asked me not to tell you, but I'm telling you anyway because I feel bad for the guy." He sticks out his tongue.

"Also, if you're wondering why he's on his phone a lot. It's because he doesn't want you to catch him staring, so he stares at some pictures of you instead." Sero winked at him.

"Oh, my God! Don't tell me these things!" Midoriya buried his face further into the pillow, ears all red and burning. "He's just like a brother to me, you know!"

Bakugou loudly clicks his tongue at him, but he blatantly ignores it. So the blond stomps over to him and grabs him by the head to make him look at him. "We're like brothers, you fucktard." Bakugou motions to himself and Midoriya with his other hand for emphasis. "You and that snowflake, on the other hand, don't act like brothers at all. Know the difference, you fucking nerd, you're supposed to be smart."

Midoriya opens his mouth to refute, but he couldn't think of anything to say, so he lamely pouts and the blond walks back to the low table.

"Are you still mad at him?" Kirishima asks, as Bakugou takes back the seat beside him.

"No, of course not... I just-!" Midoriya squeezes the pillow even tighter, "I can't get him out of my mind! There I said it! I always end up thinking about his confession! And it makes me hyper-aware of him!"

"Why don't you just go talk to him, seriously." Sero advised.

"I caaan't..." The green-haired boy whines like a dying animal. "I feel so awkward, and ashamed, and miserable!"

"But you still like him, right?" Kaminari pressed.

"I looove him!" Midoriya keens, with tears forming at the corners of his eyes.

"Then what the fuck is the problem?!" Bakugou snaps.

"It's not romantic..." Midoriya suddenly mumbles, looking away awkwardly.

"You're fucking blushing and gushing over him like a girl and it's not romantic?! Fuck you! That's it! Get out of my room!" Bakugou all but explodes, they were going around in circles and it was so fucking exasperating. Honestly, he doesn't know why they come to his room, of all people, to talk about shit. He opens the door and grabs them each by the collar before shoving them unceremoniously to the hallway. "And stay out!" The resident Bomberman slams the door to their faces.

Kirishima then calmly turns to face Midoriya, not reacting to Bakugou's outburst at all as if it was an everyday occurrence, which it really is honestly. "Would it really be so bad to go out with Todoroki, though?" He asks all of a sudden, or not so suddenly at all, going back to the conversation at hand as if they weren't just kicked out because of it.

"Of course not, he's the most amazing guy I've ever met! Bocchan is so handsome, and smart, and capable, and reliable, and nice to me, and buys me stuff, and spoils me a lot! It's just that, I'm scared. He's not someone I could afford to lose! He's more than a brother, or a best friend. He's my family. If I can't come home to him, I don't know where I'll go. I don't mind going out with him, but what if it doesn't work out? What if we break up someday? Then we wouldn't be able to go back to how we were before, and we might never talk again!"

"Midoriya," Kirishima holds him by the shoulder, effectively stopping his ramble. "You're not talking now."

It hits home then, and without thinking, Midoriya runs for his life or the love of his life for that matter.

AN:

Remember when I said I scrapped my drafts? Yeah? As it turns out, all of my foreshadowings became red herrings... I fail.

Anyway please review! And thanks!

Fic Facts:

1.) For the record, that fight between Todoroki and Bakugou was exaggerated. But I still think Todoroki is stronger, and someone needs to put that out there since I haven't read a story which exploits Bakugou's weakness yet. Also, I hope that makes up for the TodoDeku fight that isn't there. Sorry! xD

2.) I like playing with the idea that Endeavor acknowledges Midoriya to an extent. There was a little hint of that during the Sports Festival if anyone noticed... or was that just me? xP

3.) "Kacchan" = "Kaachan" (mother) ISTG somebody pry this pun from my cold dead hands.

— Lynx

20181111

AN:

Someone told me in the last chapter that in Japan, if gay couples want to get married (since that's not legal), the older of the pair adopts the younger one into his family registry. I didn't know that before, but that works for my setup so that's great. xD I'm not saying Todoroki will adopt Midoriya when Endeavor dies, but he can. I'm not saying they will get married overseas later on in this story, but they can. ;3

As for their ages, I'm not following the Japanese calendar. And I have a height/age difference kink so, Todoroki is older. xP

Also, this is not an Endeavor redemption story. In fact, I hate how the manga coincides with this unintentionally because I had this planned since last year. Anyway, what Endeavor has done canon-wise or not is unforgivable and inexcusable, end of story. I'm just using his backstory to give TodoDeku another perspective, so yeah.

"Raison D'être"

Chapter 05: Helpless Caring.

A month into the semester, their class was attacked by villains during rescue training. Todoroki had been distressed, being separated from Midoriya the entire time. And just when he manages to get back to his side, he witnesses Midoriya leap to shield All Might from the attacks of the villains. Then the 'handy' man reaches through the warping guy for Midoriya, and all Todoroki could do was watch in slow motion. It was heart-stopping. Until a loud bang resonated in the air, breaking the trance and saving Midoriya. The rest of the teachers had come. Most of the villains were taken away, but none of those that mattered.

And once again Todoroki finds himself by Midoriya's bedside in the infirmary, the green-haired child had broken both of his legs during that last jump. Why does he get hurt so much? And after they were able to finally get away from his father. He feels helpless, inadequate, unreliable. Why can't he protect his charge? It used to be so simple before...

Before Midoriya got a quirk.

Todoroki is happy for him, of course. He's one step closer to his dreams and he has no doubt Midoriya will succeed. But why does he have to get hurt?

It's not fair.

Midoriya just got his quirk. He has to learn how to use it gradually, not put his life on the line. Todoroki understands Midoriya must feel like he needs to catch up but controlling a quirk, especially of that caliber, isn't something people can learn overnight. Besides, Todoroki would wait for him. Always, and for as long as it takes. No matter what. So Midoriya doesn't need to rush, he isn't going anywhere.

Then again, deep down in the recesses of his mind, Todoroki has an inkling feeling he isn't the person Midoriya is chasing after.

The announcement of the Sports Festival immediately comes after the rest day, which hadn't seemed enough to begin with. Even so, everyone seemed to take it as a chance to shake off the anxieties brought on by the recent villain attack. Needless to say, everyone got pumped. Except for Midoriya. He had been through so much in such a short period of time he's still coming down from the high. Everything is just going too fast and he's afraid he won't be able to keep up. Not to mention the pressure and expectations from All Might, as well as the warnings and threats from Recovery Girl over his body's condition. Midoriya seriously can't take a break, and he doesn't know what to do or where to start.

Thankfully, his Bocchan was a constant presence by his side.

They were on the rooftops, waiting for the day to end. His Bocchan was taking a nap, and using him as a pillow. Midoriya was sitting in between Todoroki's legs, warm and cold arms around him, with his pretty bi-colored head resting on his freckled left shoulder. They were always like this, and he's never bothered. White soft hair tickles the back of his ears, coupled with the hot breath ghosting the side of his neck, but he would not dare move. He likes moments like these, it's his respite.

Todoroki always made him feel calm, and secured, at ease. Like nothing could go wrong. His Bocchan was his anchor, his pillar, his home. Because of him, he knows he always has somewhere to go back to. That Todoroki would never leave his side or abandon him, no matter what. And it's not unfounded, he's never had to question it. Blind faith is when you don't know something for sure, but this was something he's always known for sure.

His Bocchan suddenly grunts, stirring awake and squeezing him in a tight hug before going lax.

"Did you sleep well?" Midoriya asks, patting the side of the other's head.

Todoroki grunts again and squeezes, he's always so clingy.

"We should probably head back, dinner will start soon."

His Bocchan opens one eye and peaks at him, but doesn't let go. Bi-colored eyes stare some more.

"Come on," Midoriya shrugs him off and stands, stretching.

Todoroki yawns before getting up. "Is something bothering you? You were awake the whole time."

Midoriya looks back at him, then sighs. Sometimes it amazes him how his Bocchan could read him so well, then again he guesses he's always been an open book. "I guess I'm just a little nervous, about the sports festival."

"Why?"

"It's such a huge event, and the world will be watching, and I... I'll do my best, but you know, it's still kinda nerve-wracking." Midoriya smiles sheepishly.

Todoroki gives him a slow blink. "Okay."

The smile evaporates. "Aren't you excited about it?"

His Bocchan shrugs. "Not really."

The green-haired boy rubs the back of his neck. "Well, I suppose compared to- you know... this is probably just a walk in the park for you."

"I wouldn't go as far as to say that, it just doesn't concern me as much."

"It will still bring about many opportunities for you, though!"

"Not as big as what the Number Two Hero can offer, and the only thing bigger than that would be All Might's, but I'm pretty sure he wouldn't give me any offers."

Midoriya sweats. "Well, I mean... he's our teacher after all, and it's not like he's looking for a sidekick."

Todoroki nods, turning to leave. "So, in the end, it's still just a show."

Midoriya watches his back. "Bocchan, I know Uncle Enji will be watching but... you can still make the best of it, you know. It's not about him."

The bi-haired boy turns to look back at him. "Honestly, I don't really care."

Green eyes widened at that. What was his Bocchan saying? Didn't he hear what everyone was saying? Sure he was the strongest kid in class, sure he's probably gonna win first place, sure he was too far ahead from the rest of them, but they were still all on the same stage here. If he didn't care, then what does that make of everyone else's hopes and efforts? What did that make of Midoriya? He can't even use his quirk without breaking his bones.

The worse part was that he probably doesn't even mean anything by it, it's just how things are. They all have different motivations, or the lack thereof.

Midoriya shakes his head. "Bocchan, this is really important."

"I know, I'm not saying I won't do my best. It just doesn't matter to me, however things turn out. I'm not interested in any of that."

The green-haired boy continues to stare dumbfounded.

Circumstances, feelings, reason or conviction. He always thought none of those matter. Because in the end, the only thing that really counts is the result. But here, his Bocchan was saying even that doesn't. So, then what does? What does his Bocchan care about?

Is this about his father again? Was he trying to rebel this way? He always jokes about aiming to be a disappointment after all.

"Bocchan, you know... your Father only wants the best for you, right?"

Todoroki doesn't deem him an answer, so he goes on.

"Endeavor is still your father, the pillar of your family whether you like it or not. Right now he looks at you as if you were a child in a rebellious phase. You know what that means? It means you can do all the stupid things and he will overlook them. That after everything has failed, you can go back to him and he will give you all the help you need. Sure he might say you're a disappointment, and be a little harsh, but he won't turn his back on you. Because you are everything he's ever wanted. He invested his dreams into you, so much so he pretends he could be you. But that will never happen and he knows that too. He just wants to see you as the Number One, to be the person he could never be... so that if only a little he could be proud and rest assured of his dreams. His ways may not have been right, and nothing justifies or excuses all that he's done, but he believed with all of his heart that this was the only way he could live for the rest of his life. He isn't evil, he didn't hurt you or your mother just because he wanted to. He just got carried away, he's desperate. He doesn't see anything anymore. He's not all bad, he's just... a man of broken dreams."

"Why are you saying all this?" His Bocchan finally speaks.

"I'm not defending him, I'm just saying I understand how it feels like to want the one thing you can never have." Midoriya reminds himself he was quirkless just a little while ago. "But you... probably wouldn't understand something like that, because everything had been laid out for you since you were born."

Todoroki's eyes widened slightly, he couldn't believe he was hearing these things and from Midoriya of all people.

"Sorry, that was out of line." Midoriya was quick to apologize.

"No, it's okay-"

"No, it's not. You deserve to get mad at me for something like that, in fact, you should be getting mad at me for all of this, for everything." Midoriya's eyes were starting to get glassy, even though it was him saying the painful things.

"I don't think I can, ever." Todoroki shakes his head, calmly, resigned. "I know you're not wrong."

Midoriya sighs and looks away, trying to blink back the wetness. It probably doesn't matter if his Bocchan doesn't understand. He's always so willing to forgive, to overlook. The green-haired child knows he has to explain where this is coming from. "You know, Bocchan. I owe Uncle Enji the life I've lived up to now. And even if I know he'll never see me as his own child, I want to be able to make him say that he was glad he took me in. I want to be able to give him a reason to say that, even just once." Midoriya bites his bottom lip, before speaking again. "Because I was glad he took me in, and I want to thank him somehow."

His Bocchan frowns at that. "You don't need to thank hi-"

"Of course, I do!" Midoriya squeezes his eyes closed, knowing he's already crying. "Because my own Father wanted to kill me!" He was breathing hard. He shouldn't have said that. He didn't mean to. But it was all out in the open now. He gasps for breath. "My Father wanted to abort me, that's why he separated with my Mom. And he abandoned her, because she wouldn't agree with him."

"I'm sorry," Todoroki blurts out.

Midoriya shakes his head, wiping away tears. "That's why I'm thankful, for even someone like Endeavor to keep me around. You know, Bocchan... haven't you ever wondered about how happy he must've been when you were born? He must've been ecstatic, he must've been so proud. You made his dreams come true. You were everything he's ever wanted... my Father didn't even want me. He didn't even want to give me a chance."

Todoroki didn't know what else to say, so he kept his mouth shut and approached the smaller kid carefully before wrapping him in his arms.

Midoriya rests his head on his shoulder, tired of all the crying. "Can't you just do your best? Even if not for yourself then for me?"

His Bocchan nods mutely.

"If that's not enough, then we can make a deal. Something like..." Midoriya lifts his head and stares at bi-colored eyes, somewhat pleased of the sudden idea. "If either of us wins first place, then the other gets to grant him a wish."

Todoroki knew he shouldn't have agreed with it. He was only giving Midoriya more reason to 'try hard'. But he just couldn't say no, not when his charge had started crying like that. And God knows what happened the last time they had a fight.

Now there was absolutely nothing wrong with Midoriya 'doing his best', except Todoroki was sure he was going to get hurt again. And it's not like Todoroki doesn't understand what his charge was saying, he knows very well everyone in class is going to give it their all, and he will too. He was just really worried about Midoriya. How much is the boy willing to sacrifice? How much is he willing to get hurt?

And how much of that would Todoroki be able to take? He just doesn't want Midoriya to get hurt again.

Anyway, that whole piece about his father came as a bit of a surprise. He wasn't even thinking about that man. Midoriya probably just thought Endeavor was the reason, but that's too far from it obviously. Still, this was the first time his charge has really opened up about those kinds of feelings and his past. Todoroki always thought he couldn't remember much, being too young at the time. But he supposes he will get another chance to ask about it whenever Midoriya seems to be ready enough. He would never blame him for anything either, because he understands.

Todoroki has always been hyper-aware not to use his quirks needlessly or boastfully in front of his charge, because Midoriya didn't have one of his own before. It just never crossed his mind that the green-haired teen would relate himself to the likes of his father, they absolutely had nothing in common. His charge was probably just being too kind, as usual. Then again, he also understands that Endeavor was the only father-figure they had growing up. It was no wonder Midoriya looked at him, even though he shouldn't, or need not to. He supposes it would just have to be his responsibility to make Midoriya realize that, even if the other had a point.

For now though, he's just dreading the Sports Festival.

They get to the dining hall and everyone's already eating, grouped amongst their peers. Todoroki pulls a seat out for Midoriya, before going to the fridge to fetch their drinks. While Midoriya was pulling out the meals they took out from the cafeteria. When Todoroki gets back and slides down beside him, Kirishima opens his mouth.

"Isn't it weird that Midoriya is always calling you Bocchan, but you're the one always serving him?" The redhead asks from in front of them.

Bi-colored eyes blink. "Serving?"

"We saw you tying his shoelaces for him this morning." Kaminari quips, wiggling his eyebrows.

"Oh." Todoroki starts eating. "I just didn't want him to reach down because he broke both of his legs the other day."

"But still, you're the Bocchan." Kirishima pushes.

Both warm and cold shoulders shrug, he doesn't answer anymore and procedes to eat.

"I take care of Bocchan too, you know." Midoriya feels the need to reason.

"Yeah, but it's different when Todoroki does it." Kaminari dismisses.

"What do you mean?" The green-haired boy frowns.

Kaminari doesn't answer, he just snickers with Kirishima.

The meaning was not lost on Midoriya though. "It's not like that, we're just like brothers."

"Brothers don't sleep together on the same bed," Kaminari smirks at him. "Not at this age anyway."

"We just got used to it, okay? Since we were little our futons have always been beside each other's so, we tend to..." Midoriya tries to explain, but turns red in the process of finishing the sentence when he realized what he was about to say.

"What?" Kirishima grins.

Midoriya looks away, mumbling the rest of the statement. "Gravitate towards each other in our sleep."

"Aww~! That's cute!" Ashido and Hagakure suddenly popped up behind Kirishima.

"But it doesn't mean anything!" Midoriya insists.

Kaminari turns to the end of the table. "Iida, do you and your brother sleep together?"

Iida stops mid-bite and his eyes slide to regard Midoriya before turning back to Kaminari and Kirishima. "Of course not, we are both already grown men."

"See?!" Kaminari was quick to tease Midoriya.

The green-haired teen pouts and glares weakly, but doesn't say anything more.

"But! We used to sleep together when we were younger, like when I was five." Iida tries to control the damage and fails. Uraraka and Asui were giggling to each other beside him.

It doesn't placate Midoriya and he turns to Todoroki, grabbing his sleeve. "Bocchan, make them stop."

The bi-haired teen, swallows whatever he was chewing and spares his charge a glance before turning to Kirishima and Kaminari. "Go on, he's cuter when he's flustered."

"Bocchan!" Midoriya all but yells at the same time as the girls squealing and the boys barking laughs. He pinches Todoroki's biceps and whispers a small 'I hate you', all the while red all over his face.

Todoroki turns to seriously consider him then, forcing down a grin to try looking concerned. "Does it really bother you that much?"

Midoriya looks at him as if looking for something. "No, not really? It's just embarrassing."

"But it's fine, isn't it? They're harmless." Todoroki meant the guys and the jokes.

"Well, yeah... but," Midoriya turns on the puppy dog eyes. "Doesn't it bother you, Bocchan?"

Todoroki smiles fondly. "Not at all, I don't really mind."

Midoriya looks like he's holding onto Todoroki's every word, and nods to himself before breaking into a small shy smile. "Well, if Bocchan says so, then I guess it's okay."

Todoroki nods and reaches over to pat curly green locks. "Good boy."

Midoriya beams, still red in the face but all previous shyness gone.

Looking at them, the rest of the guys were unsure how to react. Until Hagakure speaks, "Todoroki-kun, you look like a father disciplining his child right now!"

The two move away from each other then, and Todoroki answers. "That's silly. But I guess he is my charge, after all."

The day of the tournament arrives, and Todoroki sits on the same table as Yaoyorozu and Jirou in the waiting room. Midoriya wasn't there yet as he was pulled away by All Might on their way there, and when the green-haired boy finally arrives, he approaches him.

"Bocchan," Midoriya stands in front of Todoroki. "Even without looking at it objectively, I know you're stronger than me, but... I will beat you."

It was out of nowhere, like a surprise. Todoroki didn't know where the challenge was coming from, but his charge looked serious. And the look of determination in Midoriya's eyes scared him. It spoke volumes of how far the other was willing to go. But he didn't want him to.

Why doesn't he realize how much Todoroki cares for him?

He felt his shoulders sag, but he couldn't say anything. He couldn't find his voice, he didn't even know what to say. He just stood there, shell-shocked.

There was a sudden jostling around him. Kirishima was shaking Midoriya, saying something about having the guts to challenge the strongest kid in class. Kaminari and Mineta stood behind him, asking about a lovers' quarrel. And Bakugou had fallen off his chair laughing while pointing at him.

But all the noise they made were muted, distorted, far off. He couldn't make sense of what was going on. He didn't understand. He just felt so detached. What was everyone cheering for? What were they so excited about?

When all he could think of was that Midoriya will get hurt again.

Midoriya wins the race, thankfully without using his quirk. Todoroki wins the cavalry battle, and Midoriya didn't break any bones. So far so good. But the third part of the tournament makes Todoroki nervous again. It was one-on-one matches. And he knows he was not the only one Midoriya would have troubles fighting. Todoroki prayed Midoriya wouldn't have to face Bakugou again.

And just as he thought that, Midoriya pulls him off to the side during a short break.

"I'm pretty confident you can hold your ground against anyone, but just in case, I'm going to tell you Kacchan's weakness."

Todoroki listens, but not really. He just watches Midoriya talk, the movement of his lips, the expression on his face, the light in his eyes. And it puts him on a good mood, looking at Midoriya. Or just being in his presence, and everything he does really. He appreciates it, he enjoys it, he savours it. He momentarily forgets all his worries, and thinks that maybe things wouldn't be so bad.

"Did you get all that, Bocchan?"

He nods, even though he didn't. He's seen Bakugou fight before and he knows what to expect, he just doesn't care. The only thing in his mind right now, and probably always, is Midoriya's wellbeing.

"All right, I'll see you later then. Please do your best!"

But Todoroki doesn't want to do his best, he doesn't care about all this at all. He's just worried. He doesn't want Midoriya to keep fighting, or to get hurt. He knows it would hurt Midoriya's feelings, but better his feelings than his body, better his heart than his bones. But what should he do? What should he say? He needs to make Midoriya understand that this is not the right place or time for him to risk his life fighting for something that isn't worth it. It's just a show. They're not saving lives, they're not fighting villains. It's just a stupid competition.

Todoroki watched with bated breath as Midoriya steps on the ring for the first fight, against someone from the General Studies. He doesn't know what the other guy's quirk is, but whatever it was he fears for Midoriya. The fight turns a weird turn when the other guy orders Midoriya to leave the ring, and the green-haired teen actually tries to do so, walking away to the edge. It was some kind of brainwashing quirk, if he had to guess. Todoroki doesn't mind, if his charge loses now then he doesn't have to fight and get hurt further. And he would be relieved.

Unfortunately for Todoroki, Midoriya chooses to break two of his fingers to break the spell. He immediately turns to the guy from the General Studies and they wrestle until Midoriya wins. Todoroki grits his teeth, at this rate they were bound to fight in the next round. And he doesn't have to wait long.

A few matches later, he was facing Midoriya on the ring. The green-haired teen looks proud, excited. Like he's been waiting for this moment their entire lives, like he doesn't mind causing himself harm by using that stupid quirk. Todoroki still doesn't know what to do, or say, to make Midoriya stop hurting himself and understand what he cares about.

Midoriya takes a fighting stance as Midnight raises her hand for the go signal. But Todoroki also raises his hand.

"I forfeit." He says loud and clear.

The smile is instantly wiped off Midoriya's face. Sounds of shock and disbelief echo around the stadium, from their classmates to the other classes and the general audience. But Todoroki doesn't care, not for anyone else but the person standing in front of him.

"What? Bocchan?" Midoriya looks confused.

"I'm sorry, Izuku. I don't want to fight you."

Midoriya looks breathless. "But Bocchan, we had a deal! And you said you would do your best for me!"

"This is the best that I can do for you, Izuku." Todoroki clenches a shaking hand, this time he was not going to back down. "You can't fight while hurting yourself. This is not the right time and place for you, you're not ready yet."

"You do realize that by forfeiting I'm just gonna go fight on the next round, right?"

"I won't let you."

"But why?! I'm gonna heal anyway! You can't do this to me!"

"I'm sorry, Izuku. But I'm not going to let you keep hurting yourself, no matter what your reason is. I... can't stand it." Todoroki closes his eyes and heaves a shaky breath before opening them again. "Because I love you."

Midoriya's shoulders sag, and he shakes his head. "That's not fair... You don't get to say that here! You don't get to say that now! You don't get to say you care about me when you don't care about my feelings! Or anyone else's for that matter!" Midoriya was obviously going to start crying again. "You know everyone is doing their best! Our classmates, Class B, the General studies, everyone! And you, you're just stepping on everyone's efforts!"

"You're right, Izuku. I don't care, not as much as I care about you."

"Shut up! I hate you!" Midoriya screamed.

Todoroki gritted his teeth, but he stood his ground. He nods and looks down to his feet, ready to accept whatever Midoriya has to say to him.

Except Midoriya doesn't say anything anymore, and instead rushes towards him to give him a solid punch in the face. "The loser gets to do whatever the winner says!"

Todoroki sits up from where he fell, nursing his bruised cheek as he stares up at his charge.

"So, do as I say, Bocchan." Midoriya slowly sets down the shaking fist. "I order you to win."

AN:

I was reading through my earlier drafts for this story and found I can't use most anymore, so I'm scrapping a ton and will probably move that to a new fic (if ever). Like I said before, this was supposed to be porn but now I have too much plot and more coming than I know to deal with, so yeah. Just to give you guys a little perspective, this was originally about "Midoriya's servitude to his Bocchan in bed." Hence the summary, but now I'm not really sure anymore if it still fits. I'll be keeping my title to the end for sure though, and will do my best to incorporate my previous ideas here, so no worries. I'm just saying this was far from what I had in mind and it's probably writing itself at this point. xD

Please review! And thanks!

AN:

Sorry to disappoint anyone who was hoping otherwise, but we'll be a little canon-compliant. However, I'll make sure not to dwell any further on events that already happened in the anime and manga.

And just a little reminder. Bakugou and Midoriya did not go to the same middle school and as such, Bakugou does not have a reason to bully him. Also, Bakugou doesn't know Midoriya remained quirkless until the meeting with All Might, which he also does not know. During the villain attack, Bakugou only thought Midoriya came to his rescue without using his quirk.

Midoriya, on the other hand, has been trained with Todoroki as a sparring partner throughout his childhood by Endeavor. So, his body is already a proper vessel. That's why I shortened the training with All Might during his disappearance in only one month, going against the canon that was worth ten months. But of course, he will still break bones because he still isn't used to the power. And we love seeing him suffer. LOLJK! xD

WARNING: Mild Kacchan. Beware.

"Raison D'être"

Chapter 04: Healing Kisses.

Midoriya felt his brain shortcircuiting the moment he felt lips on his own, he even forgot the fact that people could actually breathe through their nostrils. He wasn't able to close his eyes either due to the surprise, so he could see the vague image of his Bocchan with his eyes closed. He was too close to see his face clearly but he knew it was him, with the incredibly distinct half red and half white hair. But they grew up licking each other's wounds so to say, that's why kisses on the cheek, forehead, and hands were not uncommon. This was the first time they ever met full on the mouth though, and it was literally breathtaking even if not for the shock.

Todoroki pulled away and hugged him as tight as he could. "Where have you been?! Why didn't you come back anymore?! I was so worried! Did something bad happen to you?! Were you hurt?!"

Anything Midoriya had to say or ask about the kiss died in his throat the moment he realized his Bocchan was crying. He couldn't see it because they were hugging, but he could hear it in his voice, in the way it cracked and how the other took shuddering breaths. He wonders a bit about how long it had been since he last saw Todoroki cry, and belatedly realizes the bi-haired teen was also capable of running his mouth. They must've hung out too much.

"I'm sorry," the freckled kid chose to say first. "I got caught in a villain attack that day and ended up in my childhood friend's house. His mother refused to let me go back and I lost my phone during the incident."

He felt Todoroki wiping his tears away before taking a step back to inspect him for wounds. His Bocchan did this a lot whenever he had to go away and leave him in the house with his father or by himself, so the green-haired kid was used to it. Midoriya giggled slightly at the fretting, the older teen was being overly meticulous but he'd chuck that up on the worry.

The bi-haired kid pulls away again to look at him square in the eyes, hands sliding down to hold both of his hands. "Are you okay now?"

"Yeah..." Midoriya smiled through reddening cheeks, flattered by the attention.

Todoroki rests their forehead together, and releases an exhausted breath. "Good, I'm glad."

"What about you, Bocchan? Are you okay?"

The older teen straightens up and sends him a questioning stare, as if he didn't know what he was asking about, which he probably didn't.

Midoriya looked sheepish. "You blew up the house, didn't you? It was on the news."

"Oh." Todoroki paused, letting the information sink in before looking away in some kind of embarrassment. He lets go of the other's hands. "Yeah, I'm fine... just snapped a bit."

"When I heard about it, I raced back to the house but it was long over. You were already gone. I'm sorry I didn't come home sooner, I should've escaped away from Auntie."

"It's okay, don't worry about it." Todoroki finds his eyes again, and smiles helplessly. "What's important is we're back together again now."

Midoriya looks away for a moment, he didn't want to lie but... "Did Uncle Enji say anything?"

"He told me you passed Yuuei, but that was just last week. The entire time before that I didn't know anything."

"Oh..." The green-haired boy lowered his head in deep thought.

Todoroki stared at him, thinking back on the explanation. His charge tells him his friend's mother did not want to let him go back to Endeavor's house. But his broken cellphone was left on his desk somehow, the same phone Izuku says he lost. And he was caught in a villain attack? Why didn't the police tell them that when they knew he went missing after? And did Midoriya really stay over at a friend's house? Why didn't he even call home? Or did he, but his father just purposely didn't tell him? Did his Nee-san know? Did she also keep things from him? There's no way she would, right? It was safe to say it was all his father's doing, considering that the man had so much to say about Izuku the day he blew up their house. And Todoroki does not ever doubt Midoriya or think of him capable of lying either, so rather, the boy was purposefully not telling him something. After all, it is not a lie if you didn't say it.

He chooses to prod. "Izuku, tell me the truth. Did Father sent you away?"

Midoriya suddenly jolted, looking horrified. "Not-! No! It's not like that!"

Judging from the reaction he seemed to hit the mark. "I'm not gonna get mad, not at you anyway."

Midoriya lowered his head again, shaking it at the refusal. "He really didn't send me away... not exactly."

"Can you tell me what really happened then? All of it?" Todoroki tried peaking into the freckled child's face, but Midoriya refused to give, shaking his head. He sighs. "Okay, you can tell me when you're ready... For now, let's get to class."

"Thank you, Bocchan." Midoriya followed after him. "And I'm really sorry."

"It's fine, really. All that matters to me is that you're back," Todoroki felt at ease again. And though it bothered him not to know everything, it was not the most important thing, the person next to him was. Something about Midoriya just makes it easier for him to breathe. He glances at the green-haired kid and he suddenly stops, finally registering a little twinkle. "What happened to your ear?"

"Oh! This?" Midoriya touches the small red crystal, smile bright on his face. "I got my ears pierced! My friend's parents are in the fashion industry and Auntie was tinkering with some accessories one night and offered me some. So, now I have a red crystal on my left and a white crystal on my right!"

Todoroki blinked at him slowly, processing thoughts. "Those colors are..."

Midoriya blushed a little and scratched on his cheek, before letting out a soft giggle. "I may have missed you a little." [1]

They walked the rest of the way to class, and Todoroki opened the door for the both of them, towards a somewhat rowdy bunch. The most noticeable was a blond delinquent, sitting with his feet resting on his table and a glasses type guy berating him for it. The rest of the class didn't seem to notice their entry, seeing as they're all watching the spectacle. They tried to enter without stirring much fuss, but then a girl suddenly spoke from behind them.

"Oh, it's you! Freckles!"

They both turn to look back and aa brown-haired girl proceeds to bow down from her waist.

"My name is Uraraka Ochako! Thank you so much for saving me last time!"

"O-oh! It's no problem at all!" Midoriya frantically waves his hands around, and bows down just the same. "Thank you for trying to give me some points!"

"Don't worry about it! They didn't even accept it anyway-"

"It's you!" The rest of her words were interrupted by the glasses guy, who also bows with the upper half of his body. "I am so sorry for misjudging you! Clearly, you knew better than I did! And I am so ashamed I did not realize it sooner!"

"Uhm, it's nothing!" Midoriya started waving his hands around again. "And it's not like that at all, I really didn't know either-"

"Fucking Deku!" It was the blond delinquent this time, glaring at them. "Where the fuck have you been?! And why the fuck are you in my class?!"

"Were you looking for me, or didn't you want to see me? Make up your mind, Kacchan." Midoriya responded more calmly this time, mildly sheepish.

"That doesn't fucking answer my question!"

"I met up with Bocchan on the way here," Midoriya motions over to the bi-haired kid. "This is Todoroki Shouto."

Todoroki nodded to the blond, but the other guy just narrowed his eyes at him.

Midoriya then turns to him. "Bocchan, this is Bakugou Katsuki. He's the friend I was telling you about."

"We're not fucking friends!" They heard the blond in the background.

"I see," Todoroki nods to him before turning back to Bakugou and nodding slightly. "Thank you for taking care of Izuku for the past month. If there's anything I can do to repay your kindness, just let me know."

Bakugou looked incredulous, and his face showed the same kind of disgust he'd probably scorn some poo at the bottom of his shoe. "Yeah, fuck you."

"Kacchan, don't be like that." Midoriya said in passing as he took a seat.

"Shut up! Don't fucking tell me what to do! And why the fuck are you sitting beside me?!"

Midoriya beamed his brightest smile. "To annoy you~!"

Bakugou looked scandalized for a moment before angry veins started popping out on his temple. "Don't you fucking start to get cheeky, you shitty freckled fuck. I don't know how you passed the entrance exams, but I'm still the fucking best!"

Midoriya laughed like he was told a joke. "Sure, whatever you say, Kacchan." Then he caught Todoroki's gaze and smiled meaningfully.

Todoroki didn't get it, but he wasn't gonna ask in front of the person in question. Instead, he allowed himself to wonder about their so-called friendship and vaguely noted how Midoriya easily got along with everyone, like always. Suddenly, a teacher suddenly appears by the door in a yellow cocoon, and they find out they actually have a seating arrangement. As it turns out, Midoriya's seat was behind Bakugou and his own was a few seats away. Midoriya looked back at him as if the distance physically pains him, Todoroki smiles slightly and sends him an encouraging nod.

Class proceeds.

When Todoroki was told Midoriya had passed the Yuuei entrance exams, he didn't think much about the 'how' part. Obviously, because he was too busy being happy about the prospect of seeing the freckled child again. But in retrospect, he didn't think that even if he had put some thought into it, that Midoriya would acquire such a destructive quirk. And onto himself.

To say Todoroki was horrified was an understatement, he was in despair, watching Midoriya break his finger during a quirk assessment test. How painful was that? He met the green-haired child halfway as he came back from his position, taking the other's hand and freezing the broken finger before lowering his head to kiss it. "Are you okay?"

"I'm fine," Midoriya was visibly flushed and was unexpectedly surprised, he couldn't look him in the eyes. "But, uhm... everyone is staring."

Todoroki looked behind them and saw that everyone were indeed staring, openly gaping and almost scandalized. Like, they didn't expect what they saw at all, or even think they would see something like that. He belatedly realizes, what has been normal for him and Midoriya probably was not normal for the rest of their class, or the world. But it's not like there was anything wrong with it, or that it mattered, not to him anyway. Then again, if it was bothering Midoriya, he would appropriate himself.

"Don't mind them. Let's get you to the nurse's office." Todoroki says, but he still releases Midoriya from his hold and takes a step back.

"Okay." Midoriya nodded, they didn't know much of anyone in class but it was still embarrassing. From his experience with his Bocchan throughout their Middle School, he was aware people talked about them behind their backs, but no one really bothered them because of Todoroki. Still, they were in new waters now. And Bakugou was there. Not to say, the blond would question him about them, but he wouldn't really want to be asked about anything yet. Because he also does not know where they stand. At least, not anymore after that kiss.

Midoriya always knew other kids gossiped about the two of them being gay for each other, because they aren't really ever seen with anyone else. Not that being gay or in love with another guy was wrong, he's just never thought of it before. Todoroki just always had been like a big brother to him. But if things were to take a turn, he wouldn't really know how to feel either. What he does know is that, everything would be okay as long as his Bocchan was there.

He vaguely wondered, whether something had changed in the past month they weren't together. He looked up at the back of his Bocchan's head, when suddenly said head turned to look back at him.

"So, your quirk finally awakened." It wasn't a question.

"Uhhh... yeah," Midoriya became visibly nervous, scratching his cheek with a finger. "Li-like over the shock of the villain attack, or something."

That sounds questionable really, Midoriya had been on the receiving end of Endeavor's attacks throughout their shared childhood. But Todoroki will not call him out on it. "How did that happen, by the way? Are you sure you didn't get hurt?"

"Ah, nope. I'm okay," the green-haired child suddenly brightens up as if remembering something pleasant. "Actually, more than okay. I met All Might! He was the one who saved us!"

Todoroki's eyes widen a bit, if his father finds out, they will not hear the end of it. "Really? How was he like?"

"He was so amazing, Bocchan! I'm sure you'll meet him soon, because he told me he'll be teaching here."

"You kept in touch?"

"Ah, well... you know," Midoriya laughed sheepishly, not really answering the question.

Todoroki doesn't know, but he nods nonetheless. He doesn't really get it but he'd chuck it up on the fanboying thing. They both admire All Might, but Todoroki's father would kill him if he ever found out so he keeps a safe distance. Midoriya will be safe though, probably, so that's fine.

They arrived in the nurse's office and much to Todoroki's surprise, he finds out this was not the first time Midoriya got sent to the clinic. The first being after the entrance exams, where the green-haired boy broke his right arm and both legs. The look of horror on Todoroki's face was indescribable, he was almost impossible to placate. Thankfully, Midoriya's broken finger was healed with one kiss. And Todoroki was comforted by how immediate she could bring relief to Midoriya, if only by a little bit. A quirk that could heal wounds with just a kiss. Todoroki vaguely wishes his kisses could do the same, then again, it would be better if Midoriya didn't get injured at all.

And then their last class comes around with All Might bursting through the doors and telling them they would have battle tests, now Todoroki is in the same infirmary on the same day with the same nurse and his same charge, except this time Midoriya was unconscious, with injuries that cannot compare with a little broken finger.

Todoroki took slow and deep breaths, he knew it was unreasonable to get upset with Bakugou because it was a battle test and Midoriya deliberately took the blow. Still, the fight had gone too far. And now feelings he can't explain are overwhelming him. He doesn't even want to identify them. He's just feeling too much, and numb at the same time. But really, he just wants Midoriya to get better and not get hurt again.

His eyes snap to the person lying in bed when Midoriya started tugging on his pants by the knee.

"How are you feeling?" Todoroki asks, coming closer.

"I'm okay, don't worry."

Todoroki shakes his head without a word, not wanting to rebuke the other because this was definitely not okay, and there was no way he can not worry.

"I'm sorry," Midoriya continues. "I'm always making you feel bad."

"That's not true,"

"Yes, it is." Midoriya turns his head to look at the ceiling. "If it wasn't then you wouldn't be making such a sad face right now."

Todoroki does not know what kind of face he was making, but he wasn't going to question the other's words. Because they were right.

"And I didn't mean just today, I also meant that for going missing and the things I said before."

"It's fine, I know you didn't mean them." Todoroki catches on and looks away. "Why did you say you hated me anyway?"

"To hurt your feelings." Midoriya answers honestly.

Todoroki's eyes widen and he slowly turns his head to look at his charge, but Midoriya had turned his face away from him. "Why?"

"Because you hurt mine."

"Then I'm sorry too," Todoroki takes his turn to apologize. "I just didn't want you to push yourself too hard, and I didn't think your quirk will awaken now of all times."

"No, Bocchan. You were right." Midoriya turns to him then. "I didn't believe I'd get a quirk either, and I took my frustrations out on you."

"It's fine-"

"No, it's not." Midoriya cuts him off. "Bocchan, you're too kind to me, and that kinda makes me feel guilty because I probably don't deserve it. That's why I'm doing my best for you too. I just want to be with you forever."

Todoroki lets that sink in. "Me too."

It was a good thing Yuuei was a boarding school because they honestly would not know where to go after everything that happened, except they literally didn't have anything. Everything they owned so far burned along with the house, so the only thing they had were the uniforms they were wearing, along with the school supplies.

"Well, at least they had complimentary beds." Midoriya scooped the sheets up and pillows before turning to Todoroki. "Let's go, Bocchan!"

Todoroki blinked at him. "Where?" They were currently at Midoriya's assigned room on the second floor.

The green-haired boy cutely tipped his head to the side. "Aren't we gonna sleep together?"

"Oh," Todoroki looked thoughtful for a moment. "But don't you want your own room?"

"I'm going to turn it into a shrine," Midoriya's eyes sparkled meaningfully.

But it was lost on Todoroki. "If you want to pray, we can go whenever you want."

"Not that kind of shrine!" Midoriya pushes him out of the room with a laugh and they head to the elevators.

When they got to Todoroki's room, Midoriya falls on the bed with his sheets and pillows.

"Izuku," Todoroki enters his room only to close the door. "Are you sure you want to stay with me?"

"Why wouldn't I?"

"You know what I did..." Todoroki looks away, wanting to trail off but he knows he had to acknowledge it. "I burned the house down, and... sent my sister to the hospital..."

Midoriya jolts upright. "What?! Nee-chan is in the hospital? Is she okay? Did you visit her already?"

"Yes; I'm not sure; and no."

"Then we need to go right no-" Midoriya stands up to leave but Todoroki cut him off.

"I cant!" His Bocchan had his shoulders hunched with both hands rolled into fists and his eyes and lips squished tightly as if he was going to start crying again. He slowly opens his eyes when he realizes that he had yelled on Midoriya, only to realize the green-haired boy was instantly on his side, and he was hugging him.

"Okay," Midoriya spoke in soft whispers. "It's okay if you're not ready yet. We'll go some other time, okay?"

"Okay," Todoroki answers and Midoriya pulls away to smile at him and kiss him on the forehead, before leading him to the bed.

They spent the rest of the afternoon cuddling and listing down all the things they would eventually need to buy for their room. Aand they were content to fall asleep just like that, until they get a knock on the door.

It was Ashido, Uraraka, and Hagakure. The three had invited them to the common area where they presented the idea of a contest on who has the best room. It was interesting to see the rooms of their classmates, and they didn't really mind being pulled away from their own bubble, so they agreed. Until it was their turn to show off their empty room. But they really should've realized that was the least of their worries.

"You two are staying in the same room?! And will be sleeping on the same bed?!" Kaminari, Ashido, and Hagakure were freaking out, in a good way. Too good a way.

Kirishima comes up to them with sparkles in his eyes, and raises both hands to rest on his chin. "Please tell me more."

"There's nothing more to it, we're literally just sleeping." Midoriya answers, deflecting all their implications.

"That's what they all say," Mineta tells them in passing because he isn't interested in anything gay, but he still feels the need to state what everyone is assuming and espcially because it was a sexual matter.

Midoriya fails to remain casual and blushes on his whole face. He doesn't say anything further in fear of egging anyone on.

They get dinner straight afterwards, and their table unexpectedly gets crowded somehow, even their classmates on the nearby tables seemed inclined to them as well. As it turns out, they weren't done with the interrogations just yet.

"So~" Kirishima wiggles his eyebrows at them. "You two are going out?"

"We're not," Todoroki and Midoriya say at the same time, before glancing at each other and awkwardly looking away.

"Right," Kirishima didn't look disheartened, and goes on. "So how long have you two been together?" The underlying meaning in his questions didn't change a bit. Everyone seemed convinced.

Midoriya tries to take it in stride, answering for both him and his Bocchan. "Since we were seven, so half our lives so far. I was taken into the Todoroki household after an accident with my mom." He doesn't expound on that, and thankfully, that somehow spurs on a different topic.

"So, Endeavor's like your step-father?" Kaminari winces, before quietly explaining. "He scares me sometimes."

"Well, actually..." Midoriya scratches on his cheek, unsure of his own explanation. "Bocchan is listed as my foster carer, he's my legal guardian and not Uncle Enji."

The frozen smiles on Kaminari's, Kirishima's, and Ashido's faces were obviously a struggle to keep on. And heaven only knows the kind of expressions Hagakure is making.

"Even though, you're the same age?" Bless Uraraka's kind heart for breaking the awkward silence.

"It just happened, okay? Uncle Enji didn't want to sign me on the family registry." Midoriya smiles sadly.

Todoroki suddenly takes hold of his hand and squeezes reassuringly. "Don't worry, I'll do something about that. Just wait for him to pass."

Midoriya chuckles nervously. "Please don't say things like that with a straight face."

Everyone on the table don't miss the hand-holding, but no one says a thing as they let it rest for now.

And their first day ends just like that.

AN:

Please note, I was deliberately vague on Midoriya's explanation. Because plot points, you know. And I don't want to rewrite canon scenes because that's redundant. So you can assume we're following canon unless stated otherwise.

Also, I did not realize all of my chapter titles start with an 'H' until the third chapter. LOL! Pressure-much.

Anyway, please review! And thanks!

Fic Facts:

1.) It doesn't have anything to do with the story but! I just can't get 'Midoriya-having-a-red-and-white-piercing' out of my head.

— Lynx 20180520

PS: I was wondering about the things people were saying in their reviews on FFN, then I realized you guys can't read the hashtags I put on Ao3. So here you go.