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The scent of the sweet coffee forced him to escape from this fairytale he had dreamed of a few minutes ago. Izuku Midoriya had never been a morning person, even in his youth when he would rather spend a few more minutes in his comfortable bedsheet than reality awaiting him on the outside. However, the teenager who groaned at the annoying alarm sound became a sweetheart everyone adored in the neighborhood, especially when the constant alarm noises were replaced by the sound of his beloved family.
Children’s voices and genuine laughs echoed in the living room, offering enough hints about what his favorite demons were planning today. He always wanted to spend that casual morning with the people he loved, even as an old man in his thirties. His family was cherished by everyone who met their path, admiring the beauty of those kids who lived by their parents.
Izuku was grateful to see his husband taking the lead and helping him in parenthood, especially when Katsuo was the opposite of their twins: The pup was more demanding for attention and couldn’t calm himself without one of his parent’s scents, compared to Haru and Hana, who found reassurance in heir plushies. The green-haired man melted at this memory of holding his newborns for the first time, experiencing the same endless devotion to each of his pups under the teary eyes of his mate, who offered him this happiness.
Small footsteps reached the corridor, catching the omega’s attention. Izuku's face softened when he listened carefully to the low noises made by the shadows standing on the other side of the door. A knock filled the previous silence, only to hear a laugh followed by a loud “It’s open,” sensing how the conversation shared with the twins was now a blurry memory. .
Emerald eyes met the short shadows opening the door handle with their small fingers. He watched with awe, his pups putting their tongues out to keep the iron plate in their tiny hands, staying focused to not make it fall. He knew he could spend the rest of his life under this heartwarming show, but a familiar voice caught his attention. His irises noticed the strong presence of the taller figure in the bedroom, holding their 6-month-old pup inside his arms and ruffling the messy blonde curls of the twins.
Izuku Midoriya couldn’t put into words how and when he fell in love with Katsuki Bakugo, but he knew the blond stole his heart the moment their gaze met for the first time. It happened by accident, two soulmates reconnecting after endless decades of discoveries before being reunited in this timeline. The alpha always had this impressive aura that caught the omega’s attention: His crimson red irises left him speechless, observing this ethereal painting under his eyes and listening to each of his words almost like they were a universal truth. The sparks between them were instant, and before realizing it, both men shared their first kiss….which led to the birth of the twins, who got their father’s beauty.
The small pup inside the alpha’s arms made a slight move, letting the chubby fingers play with the fabric of the blond’s shirt and using it as a chew toy for his nonexistent teeth. His messy green curls were followed by tender freckles that each of his kids inherited and shining emerald eyes, being a carbon copy of his dam. His mumble mixed with the background noises in the room, making the shorter man smile at the heartwarming show.
“Be careful brats, you’ll make it fall and ruin all my good work,” Katsuki explained, holding the baby closer to his chest and facing the rolled eyes of his twins. The most touching statement about their personalities was how they were heavily inspired by their parents, who they considered as their inspiration.
“You mean our work, don’t take all the credit for yourself, Daddy!” Hana replied with an annoyed tone. It was touching to see how their legacy absorbed more of their habits as time passed, being the copy-carbon of their parents. However, it always impressed the married couple to notice each difference in the twins' behavior, with Hana being similar to her father and Haru the younger version of his dam. At this point, Izuku and Katsuki agreed about how the alpha was made for the girls and the omega for the boys, even if they both loved their children equally with their entire souls.
The cold plate met the bedsheet, brushed by the previous movements made earlier in the morning. The green-haired man felt all the attention focused on him, wondering what led all the members of his family to look at him as if he had missed something obvious. A quick glance at the cake was enough to recognize how the decoration was made by the twins in their unique style, mixed with the tiny handprint of Katsuo, who still had flavor on his baby’s clothes. A candle was standing under his eyes, surrounded by a few candies, forcing him to meet his husband’s gaze.
“It’s amazing, sweeties but what’s the occasion ?” He asked with curiosity, welcoming Haru and Hana, who sat on the bed with their legs crossed. This spot owned a meaningful part of their childhood, being often used as a "hide and seek" location before turning into the safest part for the listener when their parents read their bedtime stories.
“Mommy is stupid, he forgot his own birthday !” Hana replied with a teasing tone, copying the casual answers she could observe from her father during the couple’s interactions. Izuku’s eyes widened, but a glance at the date on his phone confirmed his doubts: Today, it was the 15th of July, and he was celebrating his 31 years.
The omega hated how he was getting older, but he had the privilege of seeing his beautiful children grow up and start their own journey under the supportive eyes of his husband. An overwhelming joy filled his chest, realizing how his family had planned this surprise for him, just to show how much they cared about his love and genuine affection. Raising children this young was a challenge for the couple, but they didn’t mind offering the world at the palm of their pup’s hands, especially when they heard their first cry. His face softened, getting emotional at the real painting under his eyes: Izuku couldn’t ask for a better present than the shadows standing beside him, knowing they’d always be a part of his narrative, even if this was temporary.
“Oh….” Izuku didn’t know when his vision became blurred, tearing up at the intense emotions invading his chest. He wasn’t even aware of his shaking body until calloused hands reached his shoulders to reassure him with a caring scent. His emerald eyes met the crimson ones, looking at him as if he was his everything while Katsuo was making baby mumbles. “I…I don’t know what to say. This is the best gift and birthday I’ve ever had. Thank you so much, but I don’t want to ruin this beautiful cake you made with love-”
“The candle gonna burn the cake if you don’t make a wish! Come on, blow them and tell us, Mommy,” Haru added with a smile, reassuring the freckled man who was a sobbing mess beside him. Compared to their sire, the omega easily showed his emotions, but this doesn’t mean Kacchan didn’t love them! On the contrary, the blond always showed them proof of love with a gesture of affection and wouldn’t hesitate to describe his “brats” as the most amazing people in this town.
Izuku nodded, taking a deep breath and wiping his tears away. He closed his eyes and blew out the candle, hearing the applause from the others in the room. The twins tried many guesses concerning their dam’s wish, but the only reply they got was a casual “It already came true,” leaving them curious about why adults were so complicated to read! The freckled man made a sign to the twins to move closer to him, taking them into a reassuring embrace. The two blonde messy curls' heads rested closer to their dam’s chest, holding him like they were ready to offer him the world.
“Thank you so much,” the omega mumbled with happy tears, being wiped away by the small fingers. His hands ruffled their messy curls, kissing their forehead and noticing how they were his biggest pride. “You’re the best, and I love you so much, sweeties.”
“Mommy deserves the best,” Hana exclaimed with a smile, looking at the taller figure beside the bed. “Can we eat a part of the cake, Daddy ?”
“Sure, but don’t make it fall unless you want another injury like the last time, kiddos,” Kastuki confided, noticing how the twins shared a glance and immediately rushed to the kitchen where their stomachs were calling for help. A soft laugh escaped from the alpha’s lips, moving his head to catch the thoughtful expression crossing his mate’s face. Katsuki couldn’t recall the last time he didn’t say “I love you” to his husband without seeing the affectionate blush on his cheeks, making him fall harder each time their gaze met. A grin appeared at the tip of his lips, putting the cake aside for more safety, he decided to sit next to the teary omega, wiping away his tears with a gentle touch. “Happy birthday, love.”
“I didn’t know falling in love with the same person twice could be possible, but you proved to me how wrong I was,” confessed the green emerald man with a genuine smile, letting his shaking fingers cup the blond’s cheeks. It remained the same touch that broke their shield years ago during their first time, realizing how their physical connection was also more powerful compared to thousands of promises in this lifetime. “You already gave me happiness with our children’s existence, and I don’t know what I could ask for…”
“You still need to make a wish, nerd,” the taller figure replied with a soft tone, kissing his mate’s forehead and noticing how shiny his emerald irises were. A few baby mumbles forced them to return to their reality, realizing how Katsuo was still standing in the alpha’s arms and wanted to reach his dam’s scent. Izuku’s face softened, opening his arms to welcome the tiny human against his chest and letting his fingers pinch the pup’s tiny nose. “It’s the tradition, sweetheart.”
“Then I wish I could stay in this happiness a little longer and see the glimpse of your smile every single day until death parts us,” the freckled man confessed with a caring gesture, stealing a gentle kiss on his husband’s lips. Katsuki didn’t fight back and welcomed the gesture that melted his stubborn heart. He put his forehead against his mate’s, sensing how their happy scents filled their bedroom. “I wish I could see our family grow and be the center of your world, even if we’re old enough to tell stories about dinosaurs.”
A light chuckle escaped from the blond’s lips, kissing Izuku before pinching the pup’s nose. Katsuo gazed at him with wide green eyes, probably clueless about what the adults were doing under his eyes, but he regained his parents' attention by doing the only thing he could do: crying. The two men smiled at the scene while scarred fingers cupped the chubby cheeks, whispering how happy he was to have such an amazing birthday. From afar, the twins’s voices could be heard, sharing an important conversation about who should have the Dynamight and Deku plates.
“I should stop them before they commit a crime, I’ll be back,” teased the blond, ruffling the messy curls and stealing the cake away, knowing it was a question of time until the two small heads ran into the room to eat all of it. Izuku knew he would join them soon, but he needed to fee Katsuo first, forcing him to reply with a simple nod, followed by a tender “I love you.”
At this moment, Izuku wished his dream came true…even if he knew this happiness was temporary.
—---
Bright sunlight passed through the curtain of this isolated building, usually occupied by each ghost haunting this town. The background noises coming from the outside were completely different from the gentle ones the freckled man heard in his dream: Mostly composed of loud conversation and hints of life appearing outside those walls. The short figure released an annoying groan, moving into the bedsheets to shut down the sound that brought him to reality.
Shit, Izuku knew he should’ve known how staying a little longer would have consequences in the real world…but how could you blame him when it was the only thing keeping him sane? After all, it’s been 10 years that the omega had been dreaming about this tender universe where he met the love of his life and naturally followed him on his crazy journey. The freckled man knew Katsuki was the result of his imagination, but a part wondered if he would be able to stop looking after a ghost. The blond constantly occupied his mind, leading the omega to consider the option of someone as prettier and genuine as the alpha existing in the real world.
The ringtone resounded in the room multiple times, indicating the emergency of the situation even if the sleepy man could barely unlock his phone to reply to the call. His voice was still low and his eyes exhausted, but the instructions were clear: He missed an important reunion concerning the next trimester of the students! Izuku apologized, explaining how he’d be there soon, even if he needed more than 5 minutes to reach his job, but he got older and exhausted.
In this world, Izuku Midoria was a teacher in the prestigious high school coveted by all the naive souls in this country: UA. Growing up as a quirkless child was emotionally exhausting, suffering from bullying in his neighborhood and leading him to hate himself for something he couldn’t control.
It took him many years before accepting how being quirkless wasn’t a shame but an opportunity to be an unforgettable name in history. Instead of spending the rest of his life crying and begging the stars for a sign, the green-haired man decided to use it to his advantage. Izuku could confirm in his multiple diary entries how hard it was to gain this confidence, but this adventure was worth the try if this meant being prouder of the person he became. Years ago, he was the annoying kid in the neighborhood who dreamt about being like the others, but today, he was Izuku Midoriya, the inspiring teacher who succeeded in reassuring the youngest generation.
He couldn’t help but wonder what was his job in this imaginary world. The omega never took the time to properly ask questions about meaningless details like that, especially when his dreams were often shortened by the groan of pain escaping his lips once he returned to his reality. There were so many untold secrets in this reassuring world he created to escape his dull life, but he wished he could be more curious….Maybe the next time, Izuku would have enough courage to ask directly.
His eyes stared at the date on his phone, and his heart missed a beat: He was celebrating his 31st birthday alone in real life. No wonder why he would rather lose himself in his fantasy than deal with responsibilities: In the imaginary world, he was loved by his family and an amazing husband…while he was doomed to spend the rest of his life alone in this insipid lifestyle. The two opposite atmospheres always acted like a stab in the chest, realizing how he became attached to simple illusions that became his entire world.
“They took you away from me again. I couldn’t even get the chance to hear how much you love me, too, Kacchan…Take care of them for me,” Izuku muttered with an affected tone, ruffling the imaginary wedding ring on his fingers. He didn’t know since when he started to feel a merge between his imagination and reality, but his heart naively believed that he belonged to this fake world.
It started in the most innocent way, with the omega losing himself in this perfect world with the illustration of the family life he always wanted to have. Indeed, the omega wouldn’t exchange this life against anything, even if this meant being doomed to fall into his own craziness, but at least ghosts would be able to show more humanity than the familiar faces he saw every day in the streets. Staying in those fake consolations succeeded in saving him from a complicated period of his life where giving up sounded like a proper option.
Izuku stayed distant about this specific time of his life, but he was ready to do anything just to see a glimpse of the blond’s smile and explain how this life he offered at the palm of his hands was his everything. The green-haired man was a nobody in this huge town, creating new journeys every day and erasing the last memories of loved ones with graves.
The freckled man smiled, recalling the tender memories as his figure reached the bathroom. His eyes stared at his own reflection, meeting the sudden change in his morphology compared to the other universe. In both worlds, the omega loved his body in a unique way: In his reality, Izuku owned scars from a difficult past and sacrifices, but in his imaginary world, he proudly wore them due to the multiple births he gave. Sometimes, the exchange between the two worlds was drastic changes, but Izuku started to get used to it….Even if his soul missed his loved ones more than anything.
The freckled man decided to force himself to stop his fantasy with a splash on his face, revealing the bags under his eyes. It was evident how he became attached to all the precious memories he created in this surreal universe, merging with his own in real life. Sometimes, it was confusing, finding himself sharing a tender memory he had with his family under the surprised expression on his colleagues’ expression, probably considering him crazy.
Unfortunately, it was the price to pay for this temporary happiness, but Izuku Midoriya doesn’t have any regrets…Not when it was about the amazing souvenirs that saved him from his predictable downfall.
—--
The strong fingers ruffled the delicate paper, sensing how fate turned out to be in their favor.
Those borders of the pictures used by the time didn’t erase the magical memories of this frame, being an unforgettable experience for both figures standing in the picture. Many years had passed since the moment they decided to forge this promise into words and meaningful actions, realizing how this naive journey they shared was their biggest pride. It wasn’t surprising to see many family pictures on the walls, pointing out how far their children had grown since the couple welcomed those tiny humans inside their home.
This morning wasn’t so different when the hero’s hands ruffled the gentle expression on his husband’s face, making a genuine smile. The couple recalled taking this picture during a small moment of peace, until the two tiny heads rushed into the landscape and begged to have a picture with their parents, making sure not to bother the 6 months pregnant omega. Usually, Katsuki Bakugo was someone who had a hard time expressing his feelings and devotion to his loved ones, creating many conflicts until now, but everything changed when he met the shy omega during a convention.
The blond could recall falling in love at first sight and promising himself to give the world to those shining emerald eyes, who stared at him with admiration. In all honestly, the taller figure didn’t even know when he ended up here in this fictional world, but he quickly adapted himself to his opposite lifestyle, offering the joy he always needed. The couple experienced so many things in the past ten years, but this made them stronger to the point where their curious souls promised eternal vows on the altar.
Izuku didn’t even try to hide his hopeless romantic side, even during their first date, where he easily exposed his bright future with many plans for marriage and family. Indeed, accepting this date with someone like him was already insane, but he tried his best not to scare the blond away, like his failed attempts in the past. The omega made sure to catch each expression crossing the alpha’s face, considering himself too annoying to share his real self, knowing people liked him more when he was silenced. If the other extras considered this as a bother, Katsuki immediately realized how lucky he was to find someone ready to spend endless conversations about the idea of being remembered as someone who tried.
It was rare to meet people like Izuku’s nowadays, but this made this journey more unmistakable. Under the stressed glances of the omega, the callous hands cupped the freckled cheeks and mesmerized the tender blush rising on his delicate skin. A simple word was enough to let both men understand how there’ll be a second and third date…even a lifetime, if they weren’t so sure about the intensity of their mutual fondness. As expected, the dates started to turn into a more serious relationship to the point where being married to each other sounded like the final step to show their soft spot for each other.
The wedding was charming and comfortable enough to celebrate their genuine love under the touched gazes of their friends, who agreed to show up. That day, the two figures will never forget the enchanting expression on each other’s faces during their first dance together, under the most curious eyes, still vulnerable over the touching vows they shared earlier. It felt like they always belonged to each other in a unique way, in a dream that seemed too good to be true… transforming each morning into a crazy adventure.
Naturally, things took another turn after welcoming the twins and their last one, being grateful to see how far they’ve come from this simple glance they exchanged years ago. It was evident how the two men wouldn’t change anything in their comfortable lifestyle, even if some times were darker than the others. However, today, Katsuki was glad to spend a little longer in this happiness that offered itself at the palm of his hands.
Scarred hands found his waist, feeling a head resting against his shoulders until a familiar scent crossed the taller figure, lost in his own thoughts. Under this angle, their size difference was obvious, but this didn’t stop them from teasing each other like teenagers discovering love for the first time. The years had passed, and bags under their eyes became more evident at anyone’s glance, but the caring expression on their faces never faded away…being stronger than the first time they learned the things expecting them in their crazy journey. The scarred fingers rested closer against the fabric of the blond’s shirt: a black one with a huge skeleton at the corner, being way too big for Izuku’s body but a guilty pleasure to see for the curious crimson's eyes.
The silence in the room faded away, being shortened by the slight chuckle escaping the freckled man’s lips. The youth they decided to sacrifice to discover each step of their journey was worth the wait if this meant being drowned in gratefulness and eternal recognition. The house was deadly quiet this morning, mostly because the children were already asleep, letting the couple enjoy their small moments together before the familiar voices asked for a good morning kiss.
“Look who’s awake,” the freckled man whispered, stealing a quick kiss on his naked shoulders. Slight movements caught his attention, noticing how the back he was previously facing was now a chest and scent he could recognize anywhere. Emerald eyes met the crimson ones, realizing how unfair it was to be this prettier in the morning! “It’s still early, maybe you should return to bed…I missed you, and I don’t like being alone in this big room without my white knight.”
“Shut up,” the blond rolled his eyes but didn’t fight back when the omega’s lips found his. Those kinds of kisses were gentle and slow enough to bring reassurance to his previous worries, being selfish a little longer. Strong arms found the smaller waist until he noticed how the omega was in his footsteps, trying to be the same height as him. That kind of detail often melted the hero’s heart, understanding how he was relieved to see the love of his life standing under his eyes with the same gaze that caught his attention years ago. The delightful chuckle leaving the omega’s lips resonated like a melody to his ears, forced to cover his blush by putting his head on the other’s shoulders.
“It’s been a while since we had such a silence in this house and time for ourselves,” pointed the shorter figure, regaining his original height and pressing his lips in the spiky hair. His fingers played with the warmth he could recognize by heart, melting on the spot. Indeed, those rare moments weren’t so different from the ones they were experiencing during their intimate exchange. Still, there was something unique in them…almost like the two of them were nothing but sentiments expressing themselves with actions instead of words. “Is there something you need to tell me, Kacchan ?”
“Nothing, just one of this morning,” he mumbled as if it was the most obvious answer, but Izuku knew better.
Indeed, the omega was more than happy to know he was the one chosen by this amazing soul that was Katsuki Bakugo. However, the green-haired man didn’t fight back against the calloused hands reaching his chin and slowly caressing his freckled cheeks, being a gesture the couple owned since their first time. It was still unbelievable how the whole world wanted to have a taste of the number two hero’s smile when this sight was only reserved for a nobody like Izuku, who got to be the lucky soul in this story. The omega’s head naturally fell into the reassuring warmth, closing his eyes before opening them and catching the same gaze that made him fall in love with his mate years ago.
There was something authentic and breathtaking in the way the crimson eyes were staring at him with such admiration, almost like words wouldn’t be enough to express his genuine love in this timeline. Izuku knew this was only an illusion, but he wanted to hold a little longer in this imaginary word that saved him years ago…He knew he would’ve probably been too regretful for not experiencing such a thing in the real world. His body naturally moved on its own to step closer to the taller figure, having an echo of the first time they agreed to break their shield down.
“Did I tell you how pretty you were ?” The taller figure confessed with a soft tone, making the freckled man blush like a shy teenager. Don’t get him wrong, he was used to those compliments for the last ten years, but he was stunned to see how falling in love with Katsuki Bakugo was easier than breathing. “Probably the most breathtaking painting I’ve seen with the same shade of green that succeeded in transforming your eyes into an intoxicating forest, mixed with the delicate lips that made me guilty of the worst crimes.”
“You’ve been too polite, but I think I can return the compliment, darling,” Izuku assured with a teasing tone, resting his forehead against the other and smiling at their close proximity. His younger self would’ve never thought it was possible to experience such a peaceful life compared to the lonely one outside those walls. It was a guilty pleasure to lose himself in his own fantasies, the invisible ghosts created to please his shattered heart. “Not a day goes by without admiring how you made me the luckiest person on earth to be honored by your presence and your endearment. I don’t think a lifetime is enough to mesmerize each trait of your face, being the biggest mysteries to solve…but are you alright ?”
Recently, the blond made a retrospection about his life and everything he’s been through…and falling in love with Izuku Midoriya was the best thing that ever happened to him. Without the nerd, none of this dream would’ve been possible, and he owed him a lot of confessions in this lifetime, even if it wasn’t enough.
“I’m just cherishing each second with you as if it was the last freckles,” he pointed out with a soft tone, putting a lost curl behind the shorter man’s ears, catching the shining emerald irises.
This gesture became something careful, almost like a reminder of this dream too good to be true they were both living, thinking they were the result of each other’s imagination. Izuku stayed silent, blushing harder at the compliment before naturally falling for the touch. His lips opened to release a surprised noise, feeling the strong hands elevating him to put his body against the counter bar. Scarred hands enrolled themselves around the blond’s neck, caressing his husband’s cheeks as if it was the last time they’d see each other. It was one of those rare moments when they both realized how far they’d come and the story they’d built, understanding how the ink they’d used on those blanc pages was now destined for their legacy.
“You’re so stupid, but you’re lucky I love you that way,” Izuku commented with a smile.
“You didn’t give me any choice, but tell me…We have 30 minutes until the brats wake up,” the golden-haired man pointed out with a grin, letting his mate know the double meaning behind his words. There was no doubt that the couple had forgotten the last time they had a proper intimate moment for themselves since their last pup entered into their lives. Emerald eyes took a quick glimpse at the clock on the wall, letting his fingers gently ruffle the spiky hair. “Don’t you think we should catch the lost time and let me show you how much I adore each part of your soul, love ?”
“Tell me more,” whispered the omega with an interested tone, making sure to let his mate understand how he was captivated by the idea. After all, Dynamight was the most coveted alpha, and many people would love to be at Izuku’s place…So what was stopping him from being selfish?
“Maybe we should take a break from being parents and return to our roots, don’t you think? We still have time, and we’ll be quiet if that’s what worried you the most,” Katsuki hinted with a grin, letting his lips caress his husband’s naked skin near his reach, hearing the slight breath escaping from the omega’s mouth. He already knew this body by heart but wanted to cherish his soul with the entire devotion he accumulated in the past years.
“So precautious, I could almost fall in love with you again if my heart weren’t yours,” he replied with a teasing tone, stealing a quick kiss on the blond’s lips. The gesture was returned with a gentle movement, sensing how his weight was now residing against the alpha’s chest. Izuku broke their previous exchange with a soft laugh until their figures reached their bedroom, catching how their wooden door was now closed. “But I wouldn’t mind listening more about how the great Dynamight is about to please his favorite fan who saw him under such a personal angle.”
The couple were aware of how many minutes they had left until their children woke up, which was another challenge they decided to use in their dangerous game. The previous confessions they shared in the kitchen earlier faded away when familiar lips whispered praise against the omega’s ears, sensing how they decided to show their love in a unique way…the same one that bonded their fate and souls together.
—---
The loud background noises resonated at his sensitive ears, hearing the sound of police sirens echoing in the early morning. Each day remained the same in this apartment, too big for a single soul like his, used to loneliness and his own thoughts. The shade of orange left enough crumbles to disappear, revealing the bright shade of the sun, lighting another day in his terrible life that he was expecting. It was the same habit every single morning, leading the taller figure to groan in annoyance, putting a pillow to cover his face.
The town has never been this active for a Monday, starting the week in the worst way possible. The blond couldn’t help but stare at the huge ceiling surrounding his head, which was supposed to bring him enough peace for the rest of his life, but everyone knew how it was some bullshit. None was safe in such a city like Mustafu’s, where each shadow could disappear overnight and be replaced by another without even noticing: Katsuki paid the price during his naive youth when he moved here for independence before taking the legacy of his parents’ company.
It wasn’t a secret that Mistsuki and Masaru Bakugo were some of the best business people on earth: each of their decisions was well calculated to get enough advantage at the end of every deal they signed with companies. This universe was the complete opposite of the one he imagined in his head, where he would be cherished for his meaningful actions instead of being a simple name that brings money into the coffers. There was nothing wrong with the idea of staying a little longer inside this illusion, especially when his face was still red from the previous frame his mind captured.
Katsuki Bakugo was a man with conviction and values, but he always had a soft spot for his fictional husband, especially when his messy curls were in the corner of the room. There was a marvelous impact on the nerd’s existence, being mesmerizing like a work of art, in a way where each of his touch and genuine confessions felt like a guilty pleasure to the corrupted soul that was the blond’s.
Being his own boss had its advantages, but that wouldn’t be enough to convince him to spend another day in this exhausting life in the next few years. The media portrayed him as the most charismatic and influential man of the decade, with a fortune reaching the millions, but no one knew how this life was nothing more than loneliness. Everyone envied him for having this privilege of enjoying things people in the middle class could barely afford, but none of it mattered when he was stuck with his inner demon. Sometimes, the blond missed the old days when he wanted to be remembered for his actions and was not recognized for his privilege.
“You used to have better sleep schedules, consider yourself lucky your parents aren't there to make the same morals they do all the time,” a voice entered the room, putting her back against the wall while crossing her arms against her chest. At first sight, the woman standing there and interrupting his thoughts seemed to be younger than him by a few years, but the close rumors already described them by many names. “You should also cover yourself, I don’t need to see you having a boner at this hour. Keep your libido for yourself, Kats.”
Katsuki rolled his eyes and showed his middle fingers as a proper answer. The woman mimicked the gesture and made a soft sight, noticing how unbothered her boss looked this morning. It was the same expression that crossed his face for years, almost like the stubborn man was hit by a sudden nostalgia. The purple-haired woman decided to move, catching how the crimson eyes stared at her curiously.
“Still the same dream ?” Jirou asked with a concerned tone, unconsciously knowing the answer.
Indeed, the young woman was involved in the company when she was 18 and full of hope, deciding to give a chance to Bakugo’s company, which promised to do many things for naive souls like her. Much to her surprise, her expectations ended up disappointing her, but she succeeded in creating a strong friendship with the unreachable figure, seeing the most vulnerable part of this man the media considered as an object. It wasn’t surprising to hear rumors spreading around them dating or being more than friends, but they both always denied those bullshit: After all, Katsuki was gayer than a fruity salad, and Jirou was already in a relationship with her boyfriend for 5 years.
Many people used to stand close to the CEO for the most selfish reasons, and Jirou was one of the rare people who considered Katsuki as a human and not a machine to bring money into society to please Mommy and Daddy’s holiday in Malibu.
The woman heard about how the blond was unable to keep a relationship for more than two months, hearing how his anger issues were often the reason for their separation. Their reasoning was understandable, but they were nothing but bothers to the blond who was focused on something else….
“On the money, ear jack,” replied the taller figure.
His eyes stared at the absence of a ring on his finger, being so used to this reassuring sight in his alternative reality. Katsuki Bakugo might be someone everyone envied and was jealous of, but none really knew how he wanted nothing more than peace with himself. It was difficult to dissipate his dream from reality when he spent most of his time with his family, talking about them as if they were standing by his side. The first time Jirou heard the story, she was surprised to see how realistic each detail was and impressed to see how the CEO, who looked dead from the inside, regained his color when he mentioned his imaginary family. There was something touching about the way the blond was sharing the new adventures of his three kids and the last meal made by his husband, losing himself into this reality where he finally found his place in this cruel world.
“It’s always the same thing,” Katsuki affirmed with a sigh, looking at the multiple shadows walking in the streets. Some couples were holding each other’s hands, smiling and laughing with each other…leaving the blond curious about his own fate. After all, he had never been made to keep a stable relationship, and here he was: married for 8 years to the love of his life, who remained the result of his imagination. His sentiments were real, and he surprised himself, realizing how he was tired of searching for one night stand when he was able to meet the grey-haired man in his sleep for a few hours. “They started to become too realistic, even his voice and touch gave me the impression I’ve been talking to a real human the entire time. Don’t you think I’m going crazy ?”
“Trust me, the brain can do creative things and surprise his own kind,” Jirou pointed out with a reassuring tone, being attached to the human version of this boss everyone jealous from afar. “It’s a question of time before figuring out this mysterious part of your life, but give me a call when this happens, i would like to meet your freckled husband.”
Katsuki answered with a middle finger, hearing how the shorter shadow threw away a bunch of paper beside his messy sheets. Jirou barely responded, making a grin when she noticed the annoying expression appearing on the blond’s face at the discovery of the stack of contracts residing beside him. This part had always repulsed him, but it was an obligation in this career they both decided to take. But thankfully, they could support each other in this mess.
“I thought we agreed to sign his fucking paper two days ago,” the taller figure commented with a sigh, acting like a brat who refused to go to school. The purpled-haired woman sighed, throwing him a pen to follow her statement, facing the CEO, who rolled his eyes with annoyance. “We made things clear, so why are they still bothering us about getting 30% part of their new merch? It’s more than reasonable for them.”
“I said the same thing, but they insisted on having your agreement in case you had to put them a knife in the back. It’s ridiculous knowing our loyalty to their brands, but apparently, people are doubting you,” she assured, checking her phone. Even if they had their own business in society, Katsuki and Jirou were still under the control of his parents, who didn’t have any problem arranging meetings in the middle of the afternoon for the sake of their company without checking their timetable. “You should leave your bed as soon as possible because we have a lot of things to do if we want to be in peace.”
“5 more minutes, and I’ll sign your dumb papers,” mumbled the blond, hearing the door closing itself and leaving him in this uncomfortable silence. Despite the appearance, Katsuki was attached to the friendship he created with EarJack: The first time they met, he automatically gave her a nickname concerning her earring, letting her know how the rest of the job would be from now on.
Yet, his crimson eyes met the stack of paper awaiting him while resting a little longer on the sheets. His mind recalled the precious memories he shared with the freckled man and how this would’ve probably been the best night of his life if all of this was real. Yet, he caught himself realizing how he was doomed, hoping to see the same kind of happiness reaching him one day. Katsuki Bakugo fell in love with his fictional husband, who looked at him as if he was his everything with those gentle touches and caring kisses. The blond couldn’t be prouder of the three amazing children he had, even if they weren’t real.
Ten years ago, his younger self would’ve said he was bothered by the idea of founding a family and falling in love, but his current self could show him how wrong he was. There was something addicting with the way those emerald eyes were looking at him with so much tenderness, owning the perfect face of what the love of his life would look like if he was real. Katsuki wondered if one day he would succeed in finding peace with this part of his past and move on, even if it would break his heart to say his final goodbye to the husband, he cherished more than his own soul and his family.
His heart shattered at the sight of a missing wedding ring on his finger. He knew Jirou was teasing him about meeting his imaginary husband, but a part of him unconsciously wanted to spend the rest of his life with someone like the freckled man. Shit, he caught himself falling back asleep just to stay a little longer in this alternative universe. Against his will, the background noises and loud conversations reached his ears, bringing him back to reality where he was the CEO of the company and not Dynamight, the number two hero who saved the day and returned home after a rough day.
“Am I crazy to chase after an invisible shadow that saved me in the past ten years? I fear I fell into the rabbit hole, and no one can save me from my own delusion, but at least it gives me a reason to keep going, right, freckles ?”
Katsuki knew whispering those words out loud wasn’t the best way to save himself, but at least he was honest with his own heart… knowing his place belonged to this imaginary world where each of his smiles mattered to the people who loved him the most.
—---
The news had just fallen, and the entire town was staring at the screen with a pale gaze.
From all the previous fights Dynamight had ever done until now, it was the roughest one: The villains standing in front of him were occupied with cursing his name and threatening his family, trying to bring the number two hero at his last straw. This strategy seemed to work, releasing all the strength he had in this final punch and knocking the villain down without an ounce of regret. Izuku’s eyes widened, noticing how the taller figure was trying to hold on to his tired legs that started to shake, even during the interview. His hands were wrapped around the twins, who watched with admiration their father having another victory on-screen while Kazuo simply mumbled in his own language, playing with the omega’s shirt.
Don’t get him wrong, the omega knew it was a part of his husband’s life and was proud to see him returning home, but something in his interview made him stressed. Until now, the freckled man never doubted the fact that he could lose the love of his life anytime, but the idea of facing a grave and raising his children alone made him on the verge of tears. Kazuo might’ve sensed this change in his scent, especially when the chubby fingers touched the freckled cheeks, replicating the gesture his parents always did after a bad nightmare. The pup was too young to understand how important this gesture was, but Izuku decided to cover his suffering and use his fake smile to not worry Hana and Haru, who started to look at their dam with attention.
“Daddy’s fine,” Hana explained with a soft voice, trying to reassure her dam. Once again, Izuku realized how his children were smarter than he could ever be, knowing the right words to comfort their dam when he was overwhelmed by his worries. Her small hands played with the messy green curls like her parents always used to do, followed by Haru, who nodded. “He always wins and returns home to give us a goodnight kiss !”
“That’s right, Daddy saved the world, and he even made a pinky promise to make us happy, even you, Mommy!” the blond curled boy added with a bright smile that reflected how genuinely happy he was to have amazing parents like them.
It wasn’t the first time Izuku heard his children reminding him how everything was fine, especially when their naivety about the rest of the world was blinding their belief. The freckled man was aware of how this world was the result of his imagination, but he refused to let this bliss fade away, even if this meant staying in this bitter duality between those two worlds until his last days. Scarred hands cupped the chubby freckled cheeks of Hana and Haru, whispering how much he loved them before stealing a forehead kiss on Kazuo’s face, hearing the slight giggle escaping the pup’s lips.
There was no doubt Izuku Midoriya was ready to do anything to protect this happiness…
A few hours passed since the release of the interview, and it now spread all over the media. Many people explained how Dynamight shouldn’t have the right to curse so openly, but another half of the population understood why he was so protective over his family. After all, the world was seeing the blond as an unreachable figure, but Izuku and his loved ones considered him a human being and not a trophy to expose. Haru and Hana stayed in their bed while Kazuo simply played with his teeth toys, creating background noises in this house that sounded so silent.
A quick glance at the clock and the screen on his phone informed the freckled man that his husband was returning home soon. The previous pressure of seeing the time moving by itself made the omega terrified at the idea of letting a villain with bad intentions attack his husband on the way home. Don’t get him wrong, Izuku knew Katsuki could fight against anyone, but there was also a chance to miss a hit, and one second of inattention might cost you a life! Thankfully, the children had already eaten and waited for the goodnight kiss of their father, melting the omega’s heart every time he saw how his family was strong enough to survive any obstacle.
Almost like his wish was executed, the familiar sound of the lock resonated in the corridor. Everyone stopped at the sudden realization that the taller man finally returned home, while Haru and Hana rushed to the courier to stare at the wooden door with excitement. Izuku smiled, hearing calls for help from the pup who couldn’t walk yet, taking him into his arms and walking into the living room. It didn’t take long until the previous silence was now filled with familiar and excited voices shouting their dad’s name and rushing into his arms. The taller man barely had time to take his coat off before feeling the twins offering him a soft hug. It was the kind of reward the alpha adored about his job, not the praise from the media or the number of victories…but the familiarity of his loved ones smiles when he returned home.
“I missed you too, kiddos,” the blond added with a soft tone, ruffling their messy curls and noticing how amazed their eyes went. He tried his best to hide the evident injuries on his body, still unhealed, but Katsuki needed to be this strong figure to his legacy, even when his body was screaming to get rest. “Tell me you didn’t make your mom angry again for waiting for me for dinner.”
“We keep our promise and listened to Zuku !” Haru said with a bright smile, looking at the proud expression on his dam’s face. However, the crimson eyes noticed how the small fingers played with the fabric of his clothes carefully, sensing how something was wrong.
“Oi…What happened? I’m worried about both of you,” Katsuki confessed, knowing that one of them was probably gonna explain the issue soon. The alpha always admired the dynamic and bond between the twins: Haru and Hana were inseparable, reminding them of the younger version of their relationship. The two pups gladly accepted the new member of their family, immediately adoring the tiny human that looked so different from them and asking thousands of questions.
“It’s mom,” Hana whispered with a concerned tone, trying not to get caught by the omega who was holding their baby brother a few meters away from them. She noticed how the crimson eyes became concerned at the mention of their dam and entered into this whispering game, trying not to get caught. “We saw your big fight on television, and it was incredible! We were all impressed, but then Zuku started to be sad…Almost like he wanted to cry, but he used this fake smile.”
“Did he tell you why he was feeling that way ?” The taller man asked, caressing the twins' backs. It wasn't a surprise to learn that his mate was sensitive during those moments, especially when theta had already lived near-death experiences in the past that nearly separated them. Yet, he couldn’t help but admire the courage of his children to be worried about the nerd, reflecting how they were good parents. “Did he give any hints ?”
“He simply gave us a hug and said how much he loved us,” Haru confirmed with Hana’s nod, knowing the shorter man would be there in a few seconds. His crimson eyes looked concerned, ready to tear up at the idea that the person they loved was suffering in silence, but he needed to do something to bring a smile back on his dam’s face at all cost! “Daddy, can you make mommy happy again? You’re the only one able to use your secret trick. We don’t like to see him sad…”
“We ?” He asked with surprise, realizing how the twins would usually refer to themselves by their names, but it was one of those rare times when one of them was using such pronouns.
“The three of us: Hana, Katsuo, and I,” the small head replied as if it was the most obvious thing, making the alpha smile. “He told us how sad he was !”
Their baby could barely talk, but the idea that the twins used their little brother as an argument to convince their father to help their dam was heartwarming. Katsuki nodded, kissing their forehead, ruffling their messy curls, and promising them to solve this situation with his magic trick. The three of them made their secret pinky promise until the freckled man walked closer and looked at the scene under his eyes, curious about what was happening behind his back. The twins immediately returned to their room, leaving the blond alone with the surprised omega, who gave him a stare that translated a thousand words.
“I didn’t know I could be jealous of the complicity you have with them, but I’m glad they trust you enough….You’re an amazing father, and I’ll never regret choosing you as my first and last,” the freckled man’s voice resonated in the corridor, feeling how the pup inside his arms started to reach the blond’s scent. The couple shared an understanding smile while the strong arms held the tiny human inside his chest and covered him with kisses, making Kazuo’s chuckles echo throughout the entire house.
“Don’t worry about that, they just care a lot about you, and I do too,” Katsuki explained with a soft tone, catching how the emerald eyes hid their concerns despite the previous words confessed earlier. The blond was more talented at reading into each expression of his mate and decided to let him know how it would be fine from now on, no matter what the voices inside his head tried to convince him. Calloused fingers put the lost curls behind the omega’s ears, having his full attention and stealing a gentle kiss on his lips that immediately brought color back to his husband’s face. “You’ve never been this beautiful.”
“Shut up,” teased the freckled man with a blush, regaining the same tender expression he usually had on his face. Katsuki was right when he described this trick as his superpower, knowing how his mate couldn’t resist each of his compliments like a teenager. Scarred hands slowly held the pup, who started to bawl, ruffing his sleepy eyes and resting closer against the omega’s chest. “We need to pretend a little longer for the kids, and then we could heal your injuries…You scared me to death, Kacchan.”
“I know, and I’m sorry, but I’m still here, so what’s the matter ?” The taller figure teased, but the shorter man wasn’t impressed, walking toward Kazuo’s bedroom to put their pup to bed. Katsuki realized how the hardest was about to come, but he didn’t mind reassuring his children before sleeping, knowing how they herniated from their caring genes from their amazing dam. There was no doubt the blond was glad to choose someone as impressive as Izuku to be the mother of his legacy, especially when his presence was inspiring to anyone crossing his path.
—---
After a gentle goodnight kiss, the blond’s shadow appeared in the quiet house. It was strange to see this place, usually full of life, now closed into an uncomfortable silence that gave him the impression that he needed to save the person he cared about the most: his mate.
Loving Izuku was easier than breathing, and even seeing his familiar figure on the counterbar made him smile. Katsuki wasn’t the kind of guy who usually showed his sentiments easily, but the freckled man succeeded in breaking his shield and taught him how to accept flaws as a strength. The hero would be forever grateful for this support his husband offers him, even if the nerd was the result of his imagination. With slow steps, he made sure to stand behind the shorter figure until he felt strong arms wrapped around his waist. His worry faded away when he sensed the familiar scent of his mate reaching his nose, closing his eyes while intertwining their fingers together.
“As much as I would love to stay a little longer with you, you need to be healed, or you’ll pass out before even saying die,” the green-haired man laughed with a soft tone, turning around to steal a quick kiss on his mate’s cheeks and reached the bathroom to get the first aid kid.
This had been more than useful in the past and saved their lives many times, especially since the twins were born and started to walk around the house and hurt themselves. Izuku would love to use a magic kiss to erase his husband’s injuries, but tonight, he decided to use his special trick. His shadow prepared in the kitchen, holding the box in the palm of his hands and noticing how the blond was sitting on a chair, checking himself on his evident injuries. His face softened once his eyes met the emerald ones, who immediately turned distressed at the obvious sight. He was grateful to know the kids were asleep, knowing how the ones standing there were probably the worst he had ever seen.
Silence filled the house as Izuku sat on a closed chair, putting the tissue against the vulnerable skin. Katsuki hated how this silence was uncomfortable, and one glance was enough to realize how the shorter man next to him was oddly discreet. His instincts woke up in the next seconds, deciding to hold the omega’s wrist, and his eyes widened when he caught the teary emerald irises. The entire time, the nerd had been keeping his suffering to himself … but old habits were complicated to erase, and the blond couldn’t be mad at him for trying to change. Calloused fingers cupped the freckled cheeks, wiping away the obvious tears that ruined this porcelain skin.
“Oi, what’s wrong, love ?” The taller man asked. Shit, he hated the fact that his missing half was holding back his pain over an internal conflict, but he couldn’t force his lover to talk if the nerd wasn’t ready. Instead, he decided to choose the safest options by asking the easy questions, trying to deduce the reasoning behind those pretty eyes.
“Nothing,” the freckled man explained, but he knew how he was betraying himself. His hands were shaking and his breath heavier, almost like he was about to suffocate in the next minutes. Don’t get him wrong, Izuku was usually stronger than that, especially in front of his children, but he wouldn’t mind being vulnerable beside the man who accepted him for his whole, including his flaws.
“You have the right to keep your emotions to yourself, but don’t forget this is a fight together like we always did. Your pain became mine the moment you pronounced my name on the altar.” The gentle touch melted the omega’s heart, moving his head to meet the concerned crimson eyes that begged him to confess the fears crossing his mind. “But I refuse to let you suffer when you’re not alone, not anymore. Izuku, the kids were worried about you, and even Kazuo shared the same opinion !”
A soft chuckle left the omega's lips at the comment, smiling at the implication that his children genuinely cared about his state. The freckled man knew he should express his pain, especially now he was alone with his thoughts and the children were safe from his breakdown.
“It’s okay, I’m here,” the taller man confessed with an absent expression on his face, wishing he could do more than just use words to reassure his heartbroken lover. “I won’t leave, not until death parts us.”
“That’s the main issue,” Izuku replied with a broken voice, welcoming the tears falling down his cheeks. His eyes fell down on his husband’s chest to stare at the deep injuries, too afraid to even touch them and wake up from this terrible nightmare. He didn’t know how emotionally overwhelmed he was until his tears met his exposed skin. “I trust you for keeping your promise, but I’m afraid of losing you. You don’t know anything about life beyond those walls and how you offered me so much happiness in the last ten years: If you leave this world, I don’t think I’ll be able to survive, even for the kids who’ll need their father by their side. Kacchan, I don’t want to be another shadow chasing after your ghost, even in my older days…”
Oh.
The previous concerns from the twins started to make sense, but something in his chest felt like it wasn’t enough. Katsuki decided to trust his instincts and wait until the freckled man regained his breath, looking at him as if he were the most precious thing this place had created. At this moment, both men realized how they refused to leave this imaginary world they had lived in for the past ten years. After all, they both shared so many things and even if they were fake memories, they decided to hold on until their dying days, even if the world surrounding them would call them crazy.
“I have nothing except you and the kids to keep me alive, and I want to pretend a little longer that I’m doing fine when I’m not,” Izuku confessed with a broken voice, letting his shaking hands meet the calloused ones, who held into his tightly. “I know I’m going crazy by convincing myself this is real, but I would rather choose our family than the things awaiting me on the other side. As selfish as it seems, I’m asking you not to leave me behind…even if you hate me with your guts for being so desperate.”
Katsuki decided to take the lead by putting his lips on the wedding ring, owning their fingers with a delightful kiss. This gesture was more than a simple reminder of their mutual affection but the timeless promises they made on the altar in their fantasies. His body moved on its own to rush into the shaking figure, offering him a slight embrace, feeling how the freckled man immediately welcomed the gesture. The two men could be seen holding each other as if their lives were on the lines, but it was nothing compared to the multitudes of emotions invading their chests.
The couple didn’t remember the last time they had such a heavy conversation, but it felt good to know they were always listened to and supported, no matter the outcome of the journey. Scarred fingers held the fabric of the blond’s shirt tighter, letting his sobs be muffled by the reassuring caress on his back coming from the familiar hands who knew his soul by heart. Izuku was aware of how stupid it was to mention his reality to his imaginary husband, but he needed someone to talk to, and Katsuki was the only one able to understand his pain….even if his words were conditioned to be what the omega wanted to hear.
From his side, Katsuki didn’t know when he’d been keeping all this pain for so long, but he decided to remind himself how he wasn’t alone and had never been: In his reality, he had Eajack to listen to his stupid stories, but here he had the most amazing husband someone could ever ask for. The blond refused to let his supposed death in this imaginary world take him away from this illusion that kept him alive for so many years. Indeed, none of them cared if the presence they held was the result of a stupid misbelief created by their brain to reassure their desperate hearts that as long as they had each other…. they’d be fine.
“Izuku Midoriya, you’ve been the best thing in my life since our gaze met that day, and I would never exchange all our adventures against a more peaceful life. I like our crazy journey because it belongs to us, like a book protected by the purest ink to bless his black pages,” he confessed with a shivered tone, trying to ignore the tears falling down his cheeks.
It was the first time he was honest with himself about the merge of his two words and how he needed to stay forever in this heaven that was this imaginary world. Some people might judge him for putting aside all the efforts made by his parents, but the blond didn’t care: As long as he could spend the rest of his days with his husband and children, he wouldn’t mind being considered the crazy one.
“You gave me the three wonderful and prettiest children, and you still impress me every single day. Seriously, you should look at yourself the way I do with you and realize how fucking amazing you are, but I’m also scared to be separate from all this paradise,” he continued, sensing how the emerald eyes listened closely to each of his words with attention. The calloused hands cupped the gentle cheeks, resting his forehead against the omega’s, showing how he was at the same level of respect as him. “You offered me the world at the palm of your hands and made me addicted to the tender taste of your lips against mine. I’m terrified to wake up and forget about what we live while someone else replaces you, not even death could fight against the urge to be desperate when it’s about you.”
“Kacchan-”
“I promise to keep fighting until the end only if you can swear on your life that you’ll stand by my side even in my craziness. I won’t let anything happen to the empire we built with our sweat and tears, but I’m also scared to say my final goodbye and chase after your ghost on the other side,” the golden-haired man concluded with teary eyes, catching the stunned irises looking at him with fondness.
It should be forbidden to look this beautiful, and yet, in a final attempt of desperation, to stay a little longer in this piece of heaven. Katsuki decided to take the lead by shutting down his husband with a kiss. The gesture they exchanged in the last years was nothing compared to the current one they were experiencing: sweat, tears, and desperation could be read in their movements, chasing after each other and too afraid to wake up from this fever dream. Scarred fingers lost themselves in the golden spiky hair, deepening their exchange as letting his lover know how he shared the same worries about letting him go, even if it was for a few seconds. Thousands of emotions started to rise inside their chest at the overwhelming stimulation, realizing how they needed this conversation to let the other know how sacred they were to let each other go.
“Stay with me,” whispered the blond between his heavy breath, regaining his consciousness. He admired how the emerald eyes looked at him at a different glance….Almost like this sensation was too ethereal to be expressed in words. The omega couldn’t help but smile between his tears, wiping them with his hands.
“Always,” he confessed with a genuine tone, holding the taller figure closer. It was evident how both men genuinely cared about each other in a way that even the gods couldn’t understand, but it was their biggest strength. This mutual trust they offered to each other and the sacrifices they made in the last ten years of their lives finally gave them a taste of what real happiness looks like. Scarred fingers whipped away the tears from his lover’s skin, covering him with praise and taking a second to admire the breathtaking view under his eyes. “It’s always been you, Kacchan. I don’t want to face the cold side of the bed anymore now you’ve become an important part of my life, but together, we can survive like we always did. Don’t forget about me, and I’ll never forget about you, sweetheart.”
The two men released a genuine smile after realizing their current position, forcing them to stand up against a better one. Yet, a sudden sound caught their attention, and their eyes met the curious crimson ones behind the walls, coming from two sleepy heads who were supposed to be in their bed at this hour. Izuku and Katsuki couldn’t blame them….not when they were glad their children were comforted by the idea that their parents were stronger together.
—---
Izuku and Katsuki’s meetings didn’t stop after this touching exchange, almost like those truths they exposed earlier broke another shield in their relationship. Indeed, all those fears they accumulated for so long ended up being released in the most powerful way. If their behavior became more touching in this imaginary world, their faces regained colors, letting their loved ones notice how they, somehow, looked happier than in the past months.
Indeed, Jirou didn’t need to ask any questions, knowing how the hidden smile crossed the corner of his lips. The woman was more than happy to know that her friend found the peace he deserved. After all, people might call him crazy for believing his own lies, but hopefully, he wasn’t alone, and the purpled-haired woman was standing by his side until the end.
She wouldn’t mind listening to the new stories shared by the CEO himself between his breaks, explaining how his last brat recently turned one. However, she also cared about his mental health and didn’t hesitate to throw on the bedsheet the recent invitation that became the latest gossip on everyone’s ears. Mustafu’s town was known for being a charitable domain for decades, and spreading the news about this event was a part of the reason why this town was so adored by its inhabitants. This year wasn’t so different from the others, but Katsuki made it clear: He refused to go there, using the argument that it would take him away precious hours of the only peace he could find in the day!
Don’t get him wrong, Katsuki had already been to many events like like this one and made his proof years ago, but he also learned how some of the donations would also go to the extras’s pockets who wouldn’t mind stealing the fate of innocents they used for a good reputation. The numerous stories repeated themselves over the years, leading the taller man to simply be seen as a “business figure” instead of his “parents' puppet,” even if the habits were hard to kill. This morning wasn’t the exception to the rules when his crimson eyes found the familiar piece of paper beside him, highlighted by the bright sunlight and revealing the flashy colors able to burn anyone’s eyes.
“I thought we agreed to-”
“-Not show ourselves to these thief parties, I know,” the purpled-haired woman replied, rolling her eyes. Jirou was expecting this kind of reaction, but it was the least she could do to let him change his mind, offering him more like a gift than a curse, as the other might think. “I initially ordered one for me, but then I decided to bring an extra guest with me, especially when the requirement was how one ticket was working for two people.”
“And you couldn’t ask your boyfriend instead ?” Katsuki pointed with a sigh, resting his back in the warmth of the sheets. He couldn’t believe his assistant did such a thing when she was aware of how his precious sleep schedule was, but a part of him couldn’t be mad at her. After all, he noticed how worried she looked the last weeks, even if she was a bad liar. There was no doubt the nerd and her would match each other’s vibes as friends if his fake husband was a part of his reality.
“Sorry to disappoint you, but it happened during his one-month mission and he didn’t mind me bringing my boss to this event,” she added with a smile. “And Denki always told me he liked portraying me as the strong woman who got the friendship of the most coveted man in the country…something I never understood, but it’s too late to give a refund.”
“Pikachu is a weird man, but if that’s what you like,” Katsuki rolled his eyes, sensing how Jirou showed him a middle finger in answer. “Would it be enough if I’m pretending to be sick ?”
“There’s no way you leave me alone in this event, and everyone knows how the big boss of the society is never sick,” assured the shorter woman with a teasing tone, moving away from the door and shouting out loud the rest of the information that would potentially be helpful to her annoying friend. “Get out of the bed, blondie. We have a lot to do, and you better be ready for tonight, I don’t think your imaginary husband would be mad at me for letting you get some peace in the real world.”
Katsuki couldn't even fight back against his assistant’s argument, knowing she was right. The nerd was an angel fallen from the sky to bless each of the blond’s days, transforming casual painting into an ethereal one, including the smile crossing his lips. Izuku Midoriya was someone who cared more about others than himself, including his husband’s sake, if he knew how terrible his state was in the real world. Yet, it was strange to wake up next to the empty side of the bed, fingers chasing after a ghost instead of feeling messy curls at the palm of his hands.
His crimson eyes stared at the invitation with a desperate gaze, reading the few rules established by the organization. It made things clear about how the theme of this year was a masquerade ball, where an accessory would be necessary to enter this unique event that succeeded in catching the media’s attention. Usually, the taller man wouldn’t mind those fancy events with their specifics and annoying rules, but he was forced to follow them against his will.
A quick stare at the time on his phone informed him how he barely had time to have his personalized suit for the event, leading him to take the last-minute option. After all, his closest got the best outfits of the decade, but tonight he wanted to be….different. A smirk crossed the tip of his lips, knowing he could honor his other self in a unique way tonight.
—---
The emerald eyes stared at the landscape appearing under his gaze, similar to a breathtaking painting captivating everyone’s attention. His heartbeat echoed louder to his ears, an annoying sound that he had heard since he left his class, recalling how he ended up here in the first place.
Earlier in the day, the high school teacher learned about the charity event that became the topic of conversation on each of his students’s lips. Indeed, his younger self had been more than interested in the goal of this event: To save the orphan on the other side of the town, touching him and his vulnerable heart. Yet, this year was the first time the tickets were officially released to the public and offered at an affordable price…Which was insane compared to the remainder of the last years when one ticket would cost him an arm.
Izuku Midoriya was a curious soul and decided to grab this automatic chance to change his mind. After all, he loved his fake family more than anyone but knew his husband would be alright with him changing his mind and sharing new anecdotes the next time they met! Without thinking, his fingers clicked on the “buy” button and received a mail of confirmation, making him smile. He couldn’t believe he was finally going to such an important event and yet….his face became paler once he realized how this was an invite for two.
Munch, to his knowledge, bringing an imaginary husband wasn’t included in the contract he signed once the agency got his money, leading him to consider what he should do now. The freckled man could stay at home and repeat the same endless habits he used to do in the past ten years…or give it a try and make Kacchan proud the next time they see each other. The main issue was how he didn’t have anyone close enough to be available tonight, and going alone would be a shame to this one-lifetime event! Still, the green-haired man decided to use his last card, knowing how this was a desperate attempt not to ridicule himself tonight.
“You’re asking me what ?” The brunette’s voice echoed behind the line, hearing the background noises from her space work. It was mid-break and the only time when the teacher could ask for such a crazy request, but he was determined to show his imaginary husband how strong he was!
“Come on, it’s just a few hours, and then you’ll be free to return to your casual life like nothing happened,” the green-haired man said with a sigh, resting his back against the chair. A quick glance around was enough to notice his colleagues sharing conversations together, but Izuku liked having his peace most of the time. “You can’t say no because you’re my last option.”
“And you didn’t even think to read the content of the invitation before getting it like the compulsive buyer you are ?” Ochako said, rolling her eyes. Don’t get her wrong, she wasn’t against the idea of changing her friend’s mind, especially when he always got this nostalgic expression on his face every time he was talking about those dreams, but the news was coming out of nowhere. “I barely have time to buy an outfit for myself, and you expect me to look tolerable when I’m more comfortable in my pajamas. I thought you knew me better, Deku-kun.”
“Don’t pretend you have a social life when you spend most of your night stalking Toga’s account. You can help a friend for one night and be desperate for the rest of your life later, it’s not a big deal,” the green-haired man replied with a teasing tone, knowing he left an ultimate argument to the brunette. A groan of pain echoed on the other line, letting the teacher understand how he already won this game.
“It’s not like I was planning anything, but you better pay me back later,” added the shorter woman with a determined tone before checking the time on her phone. “But if I finish my work early by lying to my boss about a family crisis, I can potentially be there right in time before the event starts.”
“You’re a lifesaver, thank you so much !!” The freckled man exclaimed with a smile, being relieved he could attend this party he always wanted to see.
Don’t get him wrong, he disliked the idea of letting his illusion wait a little longer and have a shorter time than usual with him, but he couldn’t refuse this offer. The scarred fingers declined the call with hope rising inside his chest, realizing how he could finally use this suit his mom bought for him the last year.
His eyes read the mail, informing how it was a masquerade ball…making his chest flutter at the theme. His younger self always loved the idea when it was presented in the movies, wondering if he could, one day, experience the same thing as the character behind the small screen. The time has finally come when he will be able to live one of his craziest dreams, and his high expectations might be guiding him to the wrong idea.
Which led him to the current situation where his fingers played stressfully with the fabric of his suit. The teacher made sure to clean it enough to be as stunning as the first day he received it, and one look at the mask hidden beside him was enough to reveal how stressed he was. Izuku found himself facing a bunch of emotions, mixing excitement with anxiety, even when the brown-haired woman noticed the concerned expression on his face.
“Don’t you dare tell me you want to return home after all the efforts I put into the choice of this dress and my mask,” she threatened him with a teasing tone, sensing how the teacher relaxed at the comment. Indeed, it was touching to see how her friend was open to new opportunities, especially when his redundant life gave him more bags under his eyes than the actual colors on his face. “Stop overthinking and just have fun, make sure to have the time of your life once we reach this place.”
“I can’t promise anything, but I hope a few drinks won’t help me to forget my stupidity,” he whispered, resting his head against the windows. In a perfect world, he would’ve stood up with his fictional family by his side and had the time of his life, but the realization hit him in the face: The teacher realized how this strong attachment toward them was only the result of his despair. Maybe there was no way to be saved in his situation, already messed up for a naive brain like his….
The car stopped a few minutes ago, letting the two figures realize their current situation. This time, there was no return back, and I decided to thank the driver for his kindness before arriving at the main entrance. The fresh wind ruffled their hair, prepared for the occasion as their eyes noticed the huge queue standing beside them.
Izuku and Ochako knew there would be a lot of people tonight for the occasion, but they caught themselves being surprised by the amount of shadows entering the small path to the huge castle. It was evident how a majority of the heads present for the event didn’t belong to the same social status, but everyone considered this as a unique chance to forget about their reality for a few hours. A glance around was enough to realize how everyone was dressed up in the most ethereal way, being on their 31 for the occasion, while the leader informed them how it was their turn.
“Can you show me the invite ?” He asked with a nonchalant tone, letting them know how he wouldn’t have time for more jokes with the huge number of people standing behind them. His glasses covered his dark irises, even if the transparency betrayed his exhausted look, revealing how he wanted to be everywhere else but there.
Izuku nodded, turning his phone on and showing the confirmation email he received earlier. The taller man stared at their outfits and curious glances before stopping them on their way.
“Don’t forget to put your mask on the entire night, and don’t take it away. Your identities and names remained secrets until the light turned on at midnight when you could celebrate your freedom,” added the leader with a serious tone, remembering how those rules might be broken easily with one second of inattention.
In another circumstance, Izuku would think those were strict rules, but it was the contract he signed and was forced to obey. Once the two shadows nodded in agreement, they put their mask on and heard the taller man wishing them a good night. Izuku couldn’t help but feel his own heartbeat resonating like a song he heard a thousand times and could recognize each rhythm with closed eyes. The lovely picture started to draw itself like a dream too good to be true, transporting him into a fantasy universe the moment the food opened to reveal the huge room appearing like a fairytale.
The orchestra played the authentic acoustic version of the most well-known songs, offering an amazing ambiance in this room that came straight from the past decade. The first thing the freckled man noticed was how the castle was too big for one person, able to lose himself in that endless labyrinth, hoping he wouldn’t end up in the wrong room at the wrong time.
The particularity of this charity event remained around the theme of this year, implying that there was barely any light to show the slighted details, offering a hint of mystery to the most curious souls. Izuku found himself interested in this place, transporting him back in the past century, realizing how he had made the right choice by coming here.
“I made my part of the job, don’t lose yourself and meet me there once the light turned on,” Ochako announced, making sure the green-haired man knew what to expect from her tonight. “From my part, I noticed something interesting in the bar…Don’t give me that gaze, I need to compensate for the lost stalking hours of research by your fault.”
“It’s not like I wasn’t expecting that,” the freckled man rolled his eyes with a chuckle, waving at the familiar shadow of his friend moving away in the background.
He found himself alone in this unknown place, all his fear faded away once enjoying the background music that appeared like a melody to his ears. After all, he couldn’t blame his friend for changing her mind after being forced to be there in the first place…but the teacher decided to fall for the mystery of this Baroque atmosphere without knowing how he had never been this close to the truth.
—-
A few hours later,
Katsuki Bakugo was the kind of person who avoided crowded places, often intoxicated by the loud noises around his sensitive ears.
Yet, he surprised himself, enjoying the atmosphere of this event that seemed to seal more dreams than actual promises. His crimson eyes noticed each detail offered its way, with thousands of faceless heads wearing their prettiest mask to cover a life that only they knew. Tonight, the CEO was another shadow in this huge crowd, but he never felt this human for years. Usually, he would go to many places where extras would immediately recognize his face and treat him for his reputation and not his actual name. This kind of lifestyle had been more than exhausting for a distraught soul like his who chased after ghosts haunting his nights, even when he was away from them.
The acoustic music crossed his ears multiple times, between applause from the public and loud conversation noises about multiple topics. The CEO of the most important company in the town was now reduced to a random shadow in this dark room, slightly lit by the lamp on the corner of the tables and roof. He could barely recognize his assistant, who decided to stand by his side for the first 30 minutes before joining an immersive conversation about the fate of rock in the next years. Katsuki didn’t mind her leaving and having her own fun, especially when she joined him by force, and maybe the both of them could find their peace tonight.
“It’s pretty interesting how this castle was built years ago by the same Duke who murdered his own family for money,” a voice added with curiosity, holding his glass and looking at the taller figure next to him. “Many legends said this place is still haunted if you go to the third floor, but it’s all rumors, right ?”
“I didn’t know it was Halloween to share so much bullshit,” Katsuki commented with a sigh, knowing he heard the same things thousands of times earlier. The most interesting thing about this kind of event was how people were free to be themselves without this usual pressure applied to their shoulders in their everyday lives. If some conversations caught the blond’s attention, others made him immediately bored, like this one where the CEO was thankful this behavior would ruin his reputation if someone knew his real identity. “If you excuse me, I think I’m going to take another drink.”
The extra tried to stop him, even when the taller figure mixed in the crowd. The blond sighed, finding his way into the multiple conversations as another song was playing an acoustic cover of the same melody he had heard thousands of times. Unfortunately, the taller figure lost himself in his thoughts and barely noticed where he was going, sensing how someone bumped into him by inadvertence.
Their shoulders met in a few seconds until the sudden cold separated them, as background noises returned to their ears, forcing their two figures to turn around and face the one who had the audacity to nearly split this drink on each other’s suit!
“Come on, can’t you just watch where you-” Katsuki swore he could almost start a fight, but he found himself speechless at the sight standing under his eyes.
He didn’t know when his heart missed a beat, but under the constant movement of the crowd and the poor light of the castle, he could only see a small glimpse of the man’s hair. His crimson eyes tried to search for more details but saw himself realizing how he had already seen those green and messy curls somewhere else! The blond immediately concludes that meeting someone way too similar to the one he heard in the past 10 years was just him projecting his illusion into the closest stranger of looking like him.
Yet, the shorter man simply held his glass in the palm of his hands, staring at him with a wide expression on his face. Izuku Midoriya could swear on his life that he had already seen this man somewhere else, but he was, once again, drowned in his own delusion of chasing after an invisible ghost. After all, maybe it was a pure coincidence, and the two of them simply looked like someone they’d been idealizing for so long until madness consumed their souls.
“I’m sorry, I’m the one to blame here, but tell me…Haven't we met before ?” The question naturally escaped the teacher’s lips, catching both of them off guard.
The emerald irises tried to cover the surprise in his glance, but the slight blush on his cheeks betrayed his thoughts. Indeed, Izuku realized his mistakes once he noticed the stunned expression on the blond’s mouth, especially when Katsuki’s mouth opened to release a sound but ended up closing itself, unable to offer a proper answer. The taller man wanted to tell the truth but knew he would sound completely crazy, and when his simple presence caught the CEO's attention.
“I would definitely remember such an ethereal painting as yours if it was the case,” replied the golden-haired man with a grin, noticing how the shorter figure blushed harder at the compliment
. Katsuki found a few similarities with his fictional husband in the stranger’s behavior, trying to see if the mystery this guy owned behind his aura was as impressive as the first impression he gave earlier. “But I could gladly return the question.”
“You leave an unforgettable impression for sure, but maybe we should continue this conversation somewhere else, this place is too crowded,” the freckled man offered with a genuine smile that gave the sensation of deja vu, being unable to spill out the truth residing at the tip of his lips.
Many extras offered the option to get to know each other more in the past hours, but none was as captivating as the green-haired man’s presence, being the only thing the CEO could focus on. During a short moment, the two figures had the impression of understanding their emotions rising inside their chest, being connected, but it didn’t last long until they convinced themselves this was the result of their misery. After all, They spent the last ten years of their lives chasing after ghosts of their past and falling into madness. It was a natural reaction to project the most reassuring presence into the first stranger who shared similarities with their missing piece.
The freckled man stared at the choice of colors that vividly reminded him of the hero’s costume the blond was wearing in his dream: It was mixed with this authentic orange and black, similar to his mask that offered an unconscious charm. Izuku felt bad for even considering this man pretty, knowing how his heart was engaged to someone else even if his mate was unreachable…but there was something mysterious with this taller figure looking at him with a seductive grin.
“I would love to,” the teacher replied with a soft tone, being grateful the darkness of the room covered the scarlet color spreading on his delicate cheeks.
His scarred fingers naturally dropped the glasses to the closest table, letting the tip of his hand reach the calloused ones, offering a first contact. At this moment, their bodies reacted when the first bare of their skin met each other, and their fingers intertwined, sensing chills spreading in their bones. Izuku and Katsuki weren’t crazy and could swear on their lives how they already lived this intense sensation, but they weren’t able to give a proper name to this sentiment rising in their chest. The green-haired man didn’t fight back when the strong hand intertwined with his, feeling the mutual warmth while their shadows escaped in the crowd that covered their presence. The orchestra guided them into their journey to the unknown as Izuku naively followed the taller man who guided him into a more isolated room, still drowning in obscurity.
Katsuki Bakugo was naive and wanted to hold as long as possible into this reassuring feeling inside his soul as the same one he experienced in his imaginary world. He never thought he would be able to feel a slight hint of hope in the real world, a project that sounded completely crazy to the man he was a few minutes ago before meeting this shorter figure beside him. The blond decided to choose the safety and search for a better location, knowing this conversation was far from being done. Katsuki knew how stupid it was to project his own fantasies onto a complete stranger he’d only met once, but he didn’t mind…not when those green curls gave him the impression to finally find peace after all those inner conflicts and fights.
Their escape became a blurry memory once they both reached a more isolated room. Izuku sighed, raising his head, only to meet the promise they shared earlier: Compared to the other rooms of this castle, this small area seemed to be occupied by a few shadows, noticing how the only relaxing sound was the orchestra that kept playing between applause of the public. The scarred fingers moved unconsciously, holding the calloused ones tighter and immediately realizing how their hands were still intertwined….
“This one should be fine,” the freckled man pointed out, leaving the tender warm against his will. Both figures felt the sudden distance between them but didn’t make any comment, too afraid to let the other go after what felt like a genuine connection for the first time in the past years. “I wouldn’t mind having some company until the countdown unless you get tired of me and want to see somewhere else, which is understandable because we don’t know each other, but-”
“I would usually highlight a flaw to break someone’s ego, but your mumbles are actually a tender melody to my ears. We’ve only met, but you’ve already changed the rules to my unreachable world, I wonder what your biggest secrets behind this pretty smile are,” Katsuki whispered to the shorter man’s ears, sensing the lost curls meeting his skin. A hidden smile crossed his lips after hearing the stranger holding his breath at the comment until he replied with a gentle tone.
“You shouldn’t charm people with such promising words, who knows if you’ll be able to keep them once the truth is revealed ?” Izuku mumbled with a hesitant tone, being insecure about the outcome of this conversation. Don’t get him wrong, he enjoyed the attention offered by this stunning stranger, but he was afraid of seeing the disappointed face once the mask was about to fall. Katsuki might’ve sensed the sudden change in his voice, leading him to sit on the closet's couch. “I’m tempted to break the rule and know what fate reserves us, but I wouldn’t mind listening to each of your stories.”
“Sharing names is forbidden, but if it's what it costs to admire the beauty of your smiles, it’s worth the try,” Katsuki pointed out, noticing how the other’s mask was in a specific shade of green, being similar to the color owned by his curls. “I should probably ask how you ended up here in the first place, but I think we’re all here for the same reason, right ?”
The blond had the impression of living a fever dream by staring at this unknown shadow in the darkness, sensing this excitement growing up inside his chest until the big reveal. Usually, he wouldn’t care about the outcome at midnight, but this time, there was something catching his attention…Wondering what was hidden behind this gentle voice that reminded him so much of his own illusion. Izuku naturally fell for those powerful words, being charmed by the mysterious aura of this man who made him obsessed with knowing more about each of the blond’s secrets. The teacher convinced himself that if he couldn’t have Kacchan in his reality, he could potentially find someone who looked like his imaginary lover to comfort himself, even if this love would never be as intense as the one he experienced in his dreams.
“If you mean forcing a friend to join you and your loneliness, then you’ll be right,” Izuku explained with a smile, wondering how Ochako was doing on the other side. “I’ve always been a curious soul when it comes to mysteries concerning my surroundings, but I couldn’t refuse such an occasion when I saw the invitation. It’s crazy how you can be equal as the biggest heads of the country once the society has fitness for your mundane life.”
“Be careful, or someone might hear your curses and behead you for public shame,” teased the blond with a smirk that melted the teacher’s heart. Shit, everything was so familiar with Kacchan, and yet, the green-haired man tried to convince himself that the illusion he created to reassure himself was real. The calloused fingers moved closer to the stranger’s face, putting the lost curls behind his ears and catching Izuku off guard. There was so much delicateness in this touch, almost like the sparkle between them tried to share a message that only their souls might understand later. “But your values are understandable even if my reason for being here is different from yours: Some might consider this as a distraction, others as a guilty pleasure, but none own the truth.”
Even if the teacher was wearing a mask, the taller figure was able to notice each change in his eyes and expression. Many questions crossed his mind, but the most obvious ones were concerning the color of his irises and potential freckles. Maybe the blond was projecting too many expectations onto this stranger, but he decided to grab his chance and chase after the closest form of reassurance another human could offer him in this reality.
“I wouldn’t be able to trust you unless you tell me you have a lover hidden somewhere else to occupy your lonely nights,” the teacher hinted with a slight chuckle, realizing how he had never felt this comfortable with anyone until now, especially when no one would judge his physical traits and his real self. Coming here was a great idea, especially when the greenette realized how he could be loved for himself and not the fake illusion he pretended to give behind his fake smiles. “I’ve met many men like you and started to read between their lies, but I would also believe you if you prove me the opposite. I’m a naive soul when it comes to second chances, call me crazy, but I’ve been holding on to the biggest illusions that kept me alive until now.”
“What kind of secrets are you hiding? We both know my attention will be entirely yours once the clock reaches midnight, and we’ll finally have a name to give to each other’s face,” claimed the blond with a grin, noticing how the shorter man started to get more comfortable, resting his head against the pillow. Some of his curls could be seen losing themselves against the fabric, but it wasn’t enough to distract the taller man from the breathtaking show. Indeed, the previous speech reminded him of his current situation, which was an off coincidence, but they weren’t the only ones chasing after an unreachable dream.
“Trust me, you’ll be surprised to see how desperate I am to chase after ghosts of my past, but I owned them, my entire soul, for bringing me back to life,” Izuku confessed with a genuine smile, letting his fingers ruffle the invisible ring on his hands. He recalled the numerous memories he shared with his family and how they needed to know how loved they were…but he had an entire lifestyle to share this statement. “Lost spirits like me are allowed to escape when the pressure became too high, having the impression of sacrificing our youth for some names that didn’t give a damn about the ones making their success. Am I crazy to consider this option as the last way to imagine what a perfect life would look like outside these walls ?”
There was something gentle and heartbreaking in the way the shorter man pronounced the previous words, almost like he needed to confess his truths but was too hesitant. Katsuki found himself touched by the revelations, finding a reflection of himself inside each of the stranger’s words, almost like their lives outside those walls were the same. It wouldn’t make sense: Katsuki Bakugo knew everyone in his society, and he would definitely remember if someone as pretty as him had joined it! A grin crossed his lips, deciding to make this his personal quest to solve for the night…
“Escaping became the only option to breathe nowadays, I wouldn’t blame you for spending time in your imagination when real life offered nothing but constant stress and gray hair. Rare are the purest souls able to express their courage out loud as you did, and I’m pretty impressed to see how I’m not the only one wondering about the unreachable,” Katsuki explained, resting his back against the couch.
“I wonder what a great soul like yours must dream about, probably enough recognition to have peace with your inner conflict.” Izuku naturally deduced this statement by himself but wished he had the confrontation with the other, who guided him to have more questions than untold answers. Each of his expressions, even if they were in darkness, was enough to read the emotions crossing his face, especially the way his lips naturally betrayed his thoughts.
“People consider me as an imposing figure in this new economy when the recognition had to go to my parents, who simply passed the lead to their lost son because he had nowhere to go,” Katsuki expressed with a sigh, closing his eyes and recalling how he started this journey in the most naive ways and ended up being stuck in his parent’s root. His voice unconsciously softened once the tender memories of his dream family crossed his mind, offering him the state of mind he’d always been looking for. “Wearing a mask is easier, but it always falls once I’ve reached my dreams: Chasing after my happy ending, being surrounded by my loved ones in a unique way, even if it’s all despair to fill the sadness in my chest. Pretty disappointing for such a big name and a CEO like me, right ?”
The emerald eyes widened, and his heart missed a beat. The entire time, he had been talking to one of the most famous names in the country, and he didn’t even measure his words! After all, it would’ve been understandable if the taller man next to him was mad after his previous comment, and yet, the other seemed to accept it with a humorous tone. However, Izuku found himself being cheered by the idea that he wouldn’t be the only one lost in this crazy journey, even if the outcome of this party would define if the two men were destined to be a timeless story or a simple one-night stand.
“I’m no one to judge people’s freedom, especially when their humanity makes them stronger,” Izuku explained with a restful tone, letting his fingers ruffle the fabric of his suit. He couldn’t help but think about how this stranger beside him could potentially be a new friend who'd understand him about his crazy fantasy. “After all, I’m only a name in the list of teachers who reached UA despite being quickless. I often teach my students how goals are the main reason for our constant improvements, as minimal as they are, but they often represent a great beginning. The worst kind of people are the ones digging their own graves for mocking the other’s motivations, and maybe this lesson should also be applied to the inner conflicts and voices in our heads.”
Katsuki stayed silent, admiring the beauty of the previous speech. He was unable to offer a proper answer, especially after hearing those words that reminded him of the gentleness of his husband. The nerd used to have the same kind of loving tone in each of his reassuring promises, often melting the alpha’s heart at the realization that he had the right to be happy. Still, the blond was impressed to learn how a quickless person was able to reach such a luxurious high school when this world used to be awful to this part of the population who were harassed for their authenticity.
“I bet your students like you a lot,” the blond pointed out with a soft tone, catching the freckled man’s attention. “No wonder why the next generation can be saved, it’s people like you with a heart too big for this world able to teach them the values of humanity. You’re doing an amazing job at convincing me to change, I have no doubts you’re one of these spirits we need to protect from the darkest side of humanity.”
Izuku caught himself blushing at the comment. He welcomed the calloused hands that succeeded in finding a way to reach his, almost like they were both using this argument to stay close to each other. The teacher couldn’t help but smile, holding the strong warmth closer and losing himself in their endless conversation…
—--
Without realizing it, two hours had passed since the beginning of their talk that transformed two strangers into the friends they always needed. There was no doubt the two men were ready to return home with each other’s number and stay in touch: it was unusual to find a unique soul like theirs in this world messed up by corruption and desire to have everything at the palm of their hands, putting aside their last hint of humanity.
Izuku simply smiled the entire time, listening to each story escaping the blond’s lips and discovering how this big boss everyone feared was, in reality, a shattered soul who needed to fill the emptiness inside his chest. Eventually, the taller figure gave a few details about his physical traits or his identity without realizing it, but the freckled man didn’t mind. He was too occupied to admire how this stranger was probably one of the strongest men he had ever seen until now. Many people would be ready to do anything to have a moment with someone like him, but the teacher was a nobody. Still, the blond decided to give him his trust and share a few chuckles that sounded unreachable to the most curious souls in the room.
Katsuki Bakugo never thought he could make so much effort, usually being a lonely guy, but this stranger gave him the impression that reality was sometimes worth the try. Until now, he tended to usually choose his imagination, but he found himself admiring the crazy narrative shared by the teacher next to him. Each story told by this impressive soul made him realize how he wouldn’t mind having him by his side, even if his heart was doomed to love a ghost and break the genuine expression on his face.
The more both men learned about each other, the more questions resided at the corner of their lips, being ready for the final reveal that was supposed to happen in five minutes. The excitement was at its peak, with their heart beating faster in their chest while the background music crossed their sensitive ears. Many confessions and secrets have been exchanged in the past hours, reinforcing this impression of already knowing each other for decades.
“-I do think this is a good way to love someone for his personality instead of his looks, knowing how superficial meetings have become in the last centuries,” Izuku confessed with a sigh, moving closer to the taller figure who became this heartening presence in his life. He couldn’t wait to return to his imaginary world and explain this event to his family! He could already feel the jealousy of his husband at the idea that someone in real life stayed with the nerd, but he couldn’t wait to see the man he loved again…even if his heart started to fletch for this stranger who seemed too perfect to exist. “Let’s say people are usually interested in nothing more than a story of one night when I’m expecting a lifetime one.”
“Do you think you found the one able to heal each of your scars ?” Katsuki naively asked, knowing he couldn’t cover the jealousy in his voice. “Sometimes the research is the worst part, but the result is worth the fight if this means finding your missing half.”
Even if a part of him wanted to discover the mystery surrounding this stranger, he wanted to make sure there was still a chance to be more than friends if fate was in his favor. His eyes noticed how the green-haired man smiled at the question, letting his fingers ruffle the nonexistent ring on his finger.
“The situation is complicated, and you’ll consider me crazy if you knew everything, but…I do,” the freckled man mumbled with an indistinct tone. There was no doubt the teacher was in love with this person sharing his life, especially with the way his voice softened at the last words, reminding Katsuki of the ethereal promises made on the altar. “It’s something caring and pretty authentic we shared since the first time our gazes met, but I know my heart will always belong to him even if he’s out of reach and a simple name to my lips.”
Oh.
Katsuki found himself heartbroken at the sudden confession, realizing how he was actually hurt by the fact that his ideas might be crushed. The blond wondered what this man looked like and what was the teacher’s type…Maybe they would’ve immediately fallen in love if they met in the street.
“Is he….dead ?” The taller man was afraid to ask this question but was also curious to know what was the implication behind the green-haired man’s words. After all, the teacher formulated them as if his lover was now standing six feet underground. Whoever was this man and the role he had in Izuku’s life, he must’ve made the teacher really happy to describe him with such tenderness.
“No, he’s not,” the shorter man corrected with a smile, apologizing for the confusion he created. It was the first time he was sharing this story with someone, but something in his soul told him how trusting this stranger was worth the try. After all, the blond had been patient and understanding with him the entire night, and if there was any judgment to make… it’d be in a few minutes. “I’m about to say something crazy, and promise not to judge me.”
“I’ve heard worse, it won’t scare me, mister All Might biggest fan,” the blond teased, feeling how the teacher rolled his eyes in answer. Yet, both men felt appeased by each other’s presence as the countdown started to show the last two minutes until the masquerade ball would reveal its verity. Izuku knew it was a crazy move, but he had nothing to lose and was excited about the idea of giving a name to this relaxing figure who listened to his stories the entire night.
“I’ve….” The teacher took a deep breath and started to confess his biggest secret, listening to the countdown happening in the background while the orchestra played their final song. “I’ve been dreaming about this guy for ten years, and, as crazy as it sounds, I’m starting to mix reality and imagination. You know, desperate people do crazy things when they need comfort, and I tend to be one of them: This man reminds me of you in many ways, and my brain created an imaginary family of twins called Hana and Haru, and-”
“-Their younger sibling, who turned one recently, called Kazuo,” shortened the blond with a heavy breath.
At this moment, many questions crossed his mind, and his heart started to beat faster, leaving him speechless: Rare were the ones sharing such unique stories like his, but how odd was the chance to meet someone who looked like his imaginary husband and tended to have the exact story as his. Katsuki wanted to believe it was too good to be true, but he lost himself in his own vulnerability, catching how the shorter man was stunned beside him, unable to reply after his previous comment.
“There had been complications during the twins’s birth, leading to stay a little longer at the hospital, but when the third one reached this world-”
“-The midwives and doctors said it was a miracle,” murmured the freckled man with a shaking tone. His heart begged him to see the face of this man who, somehow, knew this personal detail that no one had known until now.
Izuku ignored the thousands of unresolved questions crossing his mind, melting when the strong palm reached his delicate cheeks, already ruined by the previous tears falling after the realization that the man he chased after so long was standing under his eyes. This scene was too good to be true, but the scarred fingers decided to replicate the gesture by letting his shaking fingers reach the fabric of the masc separated them while the countdown slowly reached its near end. The guests started to shout out loud in the last seconds while the two men held their breath, realizing how they’d never been this close to discovering the truth they’d been looking for so long.
Izuku Midoriya didn’t know why his heart melted at the familiar touch, realizing how the illusion he had created the entire time wasn’t the result of his despair but another broken soul that desperately needed his help. The strong hands moved gently toward his skin, taking the tissue away while the entire room shouted the celebration of the event, letting all their secrets fall with their masks. The next seconds created thousands of emotions rising inside their chest as emerald eyes met the crimson ones for the first time, realizing how close they were. Usually, the two men would consider those touches as something selfish, but tonight, it was different with the way those fingers gently carried the freckled cheeks, almost like he was afraid to break him.
Katsuki knew he could recognize those breathtaking irises anywhere else, even in a crowd full of extras. After all, the man he had been dreaming about for the last ten years was finally standing under his eyes, being more than the result of his imagination but an actual human.
Indeed, the two men always considered the option of being unable to have a normal relationship due to the nature of their meeting, but the idea of seeing this dream come true was too good to be true. Calloused fingers wiped away the tears falling down those cheeks he could recognize anywhere, making sure not to scare the other as the blond was trying to process the revelation. His heart missed a beat at the familiar warmth and sob that echoed through his ears while his usual emptiness was now taken away….noticing how his husband looked prettier than he could ever imagine.
“Kacchan,” the mention of the familiar nickname acted like a slap in the blond’s face.
He didn’t know how, but his body moved on its own to rush into the shorter one, resting his head against the teacher’s shoulders and releasing the tears he had been keeping for too long. The past ten years of tension and conflicts about a doomed love story were now a blurry memory compared to the happiness filling their chest, mixed with the relief of seeing how they weren’t crazy. Usually, the CEO was someone discreet concerning his sentiment, but the overwhelming joy led him to hold the omega’s figure like his life was on the line, refusing to let the other go so easily now they finally found each other.
“Dek-Izuku,” his shaking voice mumbled, putting his fingers behind the shorter man's back.
Izuku’s eyes widened, realizing how he never thought he could hear this name in his reality, but the tighter grab let him know that he wasn’t dreaming. After all, they both spent the last hours considering the idea of living with someone who looked like their significant other without even trying to find the real owner of their hearts. The green-haired man couldn’t help but tear up at the realization, melting at the desperate touch of his husband that mixed with his attempts to stay closer to him. The strong bond they created in the last years was highlighted through their sobs, ignoring the curious glances surrounding them.
“I’ve been chasing after you my entire life,” the freckled man confessed with a delighted tone, stepping away to whip away the fat tears falling down his lover’s eyes. The crimson eyes had never been this beautiful, especially now they were ready to celebrate their passion without being worried about waking up alone in an empty bed. “Look at you, being this inspiring figure even when fate separated us against our will. I’ve always considered myself the crazy one for falling for a ghost…but knowing you’re standing by my side right now is my biggest pride.”
“I always thought you were an illusion made to reassure my biggest worries, but you’re real,” mumbled the blond, cupping the chubby freckled cheeks and mesmerizing the tender expression on the teacher’s face. Shit, Kastuki didn’t even know how he was able to fall in love a second time with this man who broke all his shields. “I used to pray for times like these, and yet….you’re still looking at me with the same eyes that promised me the world on a summer night. I think I need time to adjust to this idea that I’m crazy, freckles.”
“I’m also surprised, knowing how I’ve called your name thousands of times without any answers, but maybe there’s something I can do to show you how real this is, darling.” Scarred hands intertwined with the calloused ones, letting his lips kiss the blond’s knuckles.
Katsuki’s heart melted at the familiar sensation, reminding those numerous moments when their dreams used to be filled with genuine joy. The crimson eyes looked at him with admiration, making the teacher happier than ever. In the next seconds, his body moved on its own to shut the taller figure down with a gentle kiss, the first one the two lovers experienced in their common reality.
There was something unique and unforgettable with the way those fingers lost in each other’s hair, almost like they refused to wake up from this dream too good to be true. As expected, the sensation remained the same as their mutual obsession started to fill their guts, mouths chasing after each other in thoughtful movements as their unhealed scars became now forgotten memories. All the wasted tears and conflicts they shared about spending the rest of their lives alone were now erased by the sensation of being complete.
Katsuki and Izuku were ready to swear on their lives how this kiss tasted freedom and promises, the same ones they confessed so many times on their lonely nights. It was strange to feel how those hands that discovered so many hidden spots of their mutual bodies were now resting closer to their untouched skin in this reality. The craziest thing was how the two men already knew everything about each other for ten years but had the impression of starting a new chapter of their journey on this specific evening. Against their will, their two figures resigned their breath and shared genuine smiles, resting their foreheads closer.
“I have so many truths to express in this lifetime, but none would be enough to let you know how your existence and the kids saved me from my downfall. Katsuki Bakugo, I’ve never been this proud to be desperately in love with someone if this means having the joy to transform our dreams into reality from now on,” the freckled man confided with a calming voice, holding the calloused hands tighter and releasing a slight chuckle. “The world might consider me crazy for following a simple name, but loving you has been the best decision of my life. Now I found you, I’ll never let you go…we made a promise until-”
“-death parts us, I know, love,” the golden-haired man whispered, stealing a quick kiss on the teacher’s forehead and admiring how beautiful his husband looked. They might not own a real wedding ring on their fingers, but it was a question of time before transforming this project into a reality. “Shit, if you knew how many times I’ve been reaching out for your name, but the only thing I faced was a cold silence. You were the one thanking me for saving your life, but you had no idea how grateful I am to even cross your path: in the past years, you taught me so many things, and how to love someone as inspiring as you was the best lesson I’ve learned.”
Izuku’s face softened, resting his head against the blond’s chest in answer. It was evident how the two men had so many secrets to share, but one thing was clear: tonight, they wouldn’t have to chase after simple illusions, not when their two shattered souls finally saved each other from their downfall. The teacher knew how these new chapters had so many open doors and opportunities to create new memories…but they were more than ready to take this chance.
“It’s okay. I’m here now, and I’ll never let you go, Kacchan,” the teacher promised with a smile, cupping his husband’s cheeks with tenderness. “We used to think we were doomed for believing in our own downfall, but I’m considering this as a blessing to be reunited in this lifetime for a second chance. There are a lot of things to build and new starts to have, but I’m trusting you with my entire soul…I love you so much, thank you for saving my life and offering me this happiness I always needed.”
Katsuki was stunned but didn’t fight back, holding the shorter man closer to his chest. The two of them stayed in this reassuring position a little longer, mumbling things that only they could understand under the surprised glances of strangers observing the scene. Indeed, the couple didn’t care about what the next title would be in the media tomorrow, as long as they found each other….they knew everything would be fine. Their hearts were still distressed at the idea of saying goodbye to their kids, but something in their souls told them that they’d have plenty of occasions to see them in their dreams.
“I should be the one returning the compliment, but I think an entire lifetime isn’t enough to express how much I love you, Izuku Midoriya,” Katsuki confessed with a soft tone, catching the blush rising on his husband’s cheeks. The shade of red remained the same captivating beauty that captivated the crimson eyes in the past years: His freckles ended up being accentuated by the delicate fingers, giving chills to the shorter man who melted at the welcoming touch.
The messy green curls rested against his shoulders, knowing he would finally wake up beside the man he loved and not a cold ghost of his past. Lost in their thoughts, none noticed the footsteps coming toward their direction and how a voice caught their attention from afar. Emerald eyes met the crimson ones, realizing how he needed to get used to this breathtaking sight before reading a grin on the blond’s face.
“Katsuki Bakugo, I swear to god I was deadly worried about you, and when I-” Jirou’s voice stopped instantly, noticing the change in her friend’s glance. She could recognize it anywhere and immediately noticed the stranger standing beside him. Her eyes widened when she realized how the man looked like the exact description of this imaginary figure the taller man described the entire time. A million questions crossed her mind, but she realized how this freckled man was prettier than she expected, noticing how the two figures were inseparable with their hands intertwined like teenagers. “Oh my god, you’re the imaginary husband! You two have a lot of things to explain to me.”
Katsuki rolled his eyes while Izuku simply chuckled at the comment. Indeed, the couple itself had many things to figure out about how fate brought them together in the first place, even if tonight they both knew they wouldn’t be able to sleep alone. This journey started in the craziest way, but Izuku Midoriya and Katsuki Bakugo were ready to experience new chapters in their lives….
-end-