[ they don't talk about the shower deal, true, but in denji's defense— he is distracted with other more urgent matters, such as the fact he is courting a man for the first time in his life and it's an odd realization. the good thing about bakugou is he's not an awkward individual who would test his shortcomings and isn't the type to drop a question with every single move he makes. it makes this journey of self-awareness less of a mess, and he matches the other's energy. not that denji was restless if he's honest with himself. confused, but not nervous. there is a lot of shit in his life right now, things that are worth pressing on his anxiety and pumping his adrenaline, and his mild interest in his partner will not be grouped with all this negativity. the reality is simple, he has a choice. this is his choice. he wants it for reasons he has yet to understand but the desire is clear. so why must he deprive himself of a much-needed fucking break?
he chuckled under his breath, relaxing back on the sofa with a lazy smile. ] ... I've been on dates before coming here.
[ failure after another, but denji had his share of testing the waters with the soft gender. except, every woman that seemed to be interested in him either threw up in his mouth and sexually assaulted him, another tried to kill him, more killing attempts, one was turned into a dog, and then one more sexual assault. not a bright record one might say— traumatizing even, but he didn't need to use bakugou as a stepping stone. more scrolling, and then it slowed down and settled on a new action hit. zombies. let's watch some zombies killing people on this romantic date. it's quite fitting for this city, isn't it?
more importantly, bakugou said 'yes'. it's a bit— surprising, as he was lowkey prepared to defend his argument more only to get acceptance with ease. if he didn't know that guy the way he did, denji would've assumed this was coming off from a place of compassion. however, bakugou would never ever humor him this way. he'd get a flat-out 'fuck off' with a blast to the face if he wasn't ... well, fine with it. okay. not gonna lie, he is flattered. a bit. teeny weeny little bit. ]
I can promise you it's the best fucking date I had so far. It's normal. Normal is not bad in my world.
[ as the movie begins, denji boosts up the volume a touch, not too loud that it would make it hard to have a conversation, setting up the mood of a cinema experience in their humble common area. the everlight base was empty tonight, quiet, with tame lighting. it's those small details that barely caught his attention that are slowly becoming more vivid. hmm. he glanced at bakugou from the corner of his eye, he'd wait for him to notice before he asked. ]
[the shower is more an accepted thing that's happened, the karaoke thing will happen, and it's just something that's done with denji and really no one else. hell, if the guy asked bakugou to heat up another bath for him, it'd likely happen, if he weathered the initial grousing... but this is a date. how the hell's he supposed to take that? romance evades the reason for the date. curiosity would be a good suggestion, but gratitude remains a professed reason. yes, gratitude and a little victory party that has somehow been agreed upon by these two guys to become a date. bakugou isn't sure how that happened exactly. he'd gonna avoid the awkward questions to pound that out. denji's always been a strange "safe space" for the blonde since the start. admit it? fuck no. reality? yeah. there's something about his personality and nature, calming and frustrating at the same time. so unlike the others in his class bakugou's gotten used to over the months. tch, fine. it's a date. they can leave it at that.
that small laugh and denji's recline backwards earns a brief flick from those red eyes.] Doesn't change my comment.
[bakugou still wants to be the best one in denji's mind if they're going to call it a date. is that staking a claim on the other boy? holy fuck, he doesn't know! at least let him be known as the best date and he'll be happy with it. there's no reason he has for trying to off denji either. not that he's going to recognize that strange reality without denji opening up about it.
seriously? he wants to watch zombies? ... well it's action, and this isn't a romantic date, so why the hell not watch zombies get blown to pieces? they just finished destroying a shit ton of sea monsters.
bakugou doesn't want to have a defense argument about the date! he already said yes to it (even if that wasn't the definition of their date back then) and hates being second guessed or challenged after he makes a decision. denji doesn't push for it, something bakugou appreciates about him. he's easy going for the most part, but not in a way that makes bakugou want to manipulate or bully him. denji has his own strength, present and growing, and he's not about to step on it. and if he's honest, the half-devil isn't a bad date to have.]
Must've had some shit dates in your past. Just kick back and watch the movie.
[he's fucking glad for the emptiness. even then, the common room usually sees people watching news or a movie, so it wouldn't be horrible if someone came in and saw. that said, it's only a few seconds before he feels eyes on him and flick his gaze to the side, noticing denji looking at him. his jaw tenses, ready to snap out a "what" before the other boy asks.
c- ... cozy? what the hell kind of question is that? his mind immediately flicks to two interpretations of the meaning, both exemplified by his parents when he was younger and caught them watching a movie together. bleh.]
What d'ya mean by "cozy"?
[because his mind is 1) some clothes come off, or 2) get close together.]
[ his previous dates were beyond shitty, true, but bakugou is underestimating this night by bringing up the past as if denji cares enough to compare. bakugou is in a league of his own, and the half-devil doesn't even have it in him to think of anyone else. all those names are dismissed, head empty and content with the present— him being in this city, under this roof, sharing a movie with the blonde next to him. nothing else mattered, and god ... the air was light and it was easy to breathe. he hasn't felt this way in a long, long time.
he didn't understand it, but it was denji feeling safe around someone else. that's what he interpreted as feeling 'good' while in reality, it's him realizing that he can trust this individual. even nayuta, despite how much he loves her, he couldn't drop his guard around the control devil. imagine how exhausting it is— when your body is in a constant fight or flight mode, every breathing second of your day and night, nonstop for years. denji is tired. he's tired all the time. it's evident in his slow speech, hunched form, and airy stares. it took him a while, whether bakugou was aware of it or not, but it was only recently he noticed himself - acting different when they're together. as if he was not afraid anymore. it started from the night when the hero agreed to prepare a bath for him, from the second denji felt it's okay to strip bare— because it's safe. perhaps that act isn't significant, even to denji at the time, but it was the pinpoint of where he crossed and pushed aside those heavy weights.
bakugou is his safe space, too. ]
Relaaaax. I come in peace.
[ guy to guy communication. in other words, he understood bakugou's demand for clarification on the spot. he didn't forget about the other's critique of denji's idea of a date, not surprised the golden boy has strict demands. shifting a bit, he reached over to the blanket resting on the sofa's arm, dragging it along as he moved closer to the other. the seating was big enough to accommodate a group of four, and denji speaks from experience during everlight's group activities and other movie nights, so it looked kinda ridiculous to have such a gap between two people on a date. plus, it's cold in here. the heating system apparently can only focus on one task and it decided to keep the waters warm and nothing else. ]
Hold this.
[ he gestures for bakugou to grab their cake so he can toss the blanket around them both, burying their bodies from the chest down under the thick fabric. denji settled in, sinking into the soft cushion of the sofa behind him, side by side with bakugou— with their arms lightly pressing against each other whenever one moved. there. cozy.
he then grabs his plate, already digging his fork into the fluffy sponge, eager for a taste. ] Don't fall asleep. I know you love to go to bed early but we're watching the whole thing on our date.
[he figures denji would compare dates, but has no way of knowing the other boy's mindspace does not, in fact, waste the effort on doing so. at least he'd be damn proud to know he stands high and tall over any lame competition! luckily they don't have to deal with that and they can sit here watching zombie movies on the same couch while continuing their strange but well-received date together. it's hard to completely deny this is relaxing. bakugou doesn't usually let himself unwind like this. the fact denji got him to do so relatively easily speaks rather highly of the half-devil as well.
someday, if they get into each other's backgrounds, he'll understand more why denji looks so haggard at the time. bakugou won't say he has an "easy" life either, putting so much effort and focus on his training as a hero, and then all the decidedly-non-school issues all for one, the league of villains, and others have placed upon what should've been a bunch of young students' normal school year. none of them entered u.a.'s gates that year thinking they'd be fighting for their nation's survival in a massive civil war by the end of said year. yet here, things are slower, and in this little pocket, bakugou can finally rest for a while. he trusts denji to be that safe space. even if he won't say it. because ugh... saying it.]
Urusei. [don't mock him with that "come in peace" line. you know he was going to question it the second you said 'get cozy' to the world's prickliest grenade! besides, denji's never struck him as an overly physical person either. at least not off the bat with new people. of which... the two of them are neither of those two each other. is this a critique of denji's dating? not really. bakugou just doesn't like getting close to people in general. he's not a touchy feely kind of guy. a few scant exceptions existing. usually by people who earned them. as denji pulls at the blanket and scoots closer to him, bakugou doesn't lean away or growl at him. looks like the half-devils's one of the few who earned that exception. really, the only reason for the gap previously was the understood reality that someone coming in and seeing them sitting side by side under a blanket would definitely construe an assumption neither of them (apparently) want.]
Don't order me around. [and yet bakugou still holds the cake box, lifting it up overhead when the blanket gets tossed over his body. arms free from the covering, he lets it settle around his chest, then kicks his legs up onto the ottoman in front of them, leaving his slips on the floor for the time being. as denji settles in beside him, bakugou lower his arms and rests the cake box on his lap, not minding the occasional bump of shoulder and arm against the other boy. it's instantly warmer. a welcome warmth in the cold weather.
after that, it's just a matter of flicking open the cake box and then digging in with his fork. bakugou eyes the piece, less out of judgement and more simple curiosity as to what denji picked out. then takes the bite.] I've never fallen asleep watching a movie. Brat.
[coupled with a brief jab of his elbow into denji's ribs for daring to suggest he might.]
[ denji isn't touchy-feely either, not in the normal sense because nothing about his mindset is fucking normal to begin with. his idea of intimacy might come off as invasive from another perspective when he is genuinely not trying to be. he likes to blame it on his odd dynamic with power that fed into that acceptance of the lack of personal space. she would often cling to him, crawl into his bed, straddle him, and in his face at all times— was it sexual? no. it was platonic intimacy that looked fucking weird to non-devils perhaps. then again, would bakugou believe him if he told him devils yearn for that type of closeness? the same creatures who are the manifestation of human fears and anxieties happen to favor plain bread and a simple hug. being the blend of two sides, one of a child who grew up without parental love and a healthy relationship, and another inheriting the chainsaw devil's adoration for warm hugs, both of which scream 'touch starved' — let's say bakugou is lucky all he's enduring is some closeness under the blanket and nothing more intense.
he smiled at that playful jab, watching as the hero examined the offered cake. ] It tastes like you're taking a bite from a cloud. Honestly, worth the wait.
[ more sugar, but not too scikly sweet. it melts on your tongue with ease and certainly compliments the hearty meal they had a few minutes earlier. denji's toes curl in a subtle display of pure delight. it's yummy-licious! bakugou is free to indulge or decide he's not a fan, there's no pressure in this one. as for the movie, it starts with a typical day in the life, the characters' introduction, and all the false happiness that's about to be crushed by the undead. denji stayed quiet, oddly attentive even in the 'boring' scenes. he made no effort to start a conversation with the other, nor did he seem annoyed if there was any attempt from bakugou's side— but it's clear he was into it. it was a typical zombie flick, nothing too in-depth but it's a fun watch for those who enjoy action sequences, mild horror, and gory scenes.
they are halfway through the screening and denji's cake is long gone, blissfully full, and satisfied for the night. somehow he ended up sinking even further into the cushions with his legs stretched over the ottoman, idly swaying his foot to nudge bakugou's from time to time. he didn't give a fuck even if a kaiju bust in here, he's too comfortable to ever move from this spot now. they enter act two when the average salesman dad is suddenly some kung-fu zombie killing machine, ready to take down more. listen, it's funny and stupid, denji knows, but fucking entertaining regardless. it's one of those movies.
eventually, he does end up breaking his own rule of 'no talking during the movie'. after all, this is meant to be a special night so he doesn't plan to be too strict. ]
Oh yeah. I need to impress my date, right? [ he didn't wait for bakugou to answer, instead he cleared his throat and ran with it. ] I killed the zombie devil once, you know. You might think it would be strong since a lot of people are scared of zombies, but it was weak. Sliced him down like a cherry tomato.
[ he turns his head to glance at his partner. ] Are you impressed?
[would he believe him? probably, since denji's the expert on his own world and bakugou has zero evidence to contrast whatever denji says. would he think it's weird for beings created from human fears to want to cling to humans while also wanting to harm them? fuck yes. but denji's not one of those devils; he's a half-devil who likes to be around people who won't try to fuck him over. which are apparently very few in number in his life. touch starved would not surprise the blonde hero in the slightest when it comes to denji. doesn't mean he would accept it without grouching and squirming if the half-devil tried. ultimately accepting it, however, being the implication at the end of his bristly response. this is the guy who ducks and yells like a rat someone tried to burn when his mom tries to give him a hug, much to her amusement as she forces the issue on him.
she's not here. cake and denji are. he slips the piece into his mouth, chewing it as his tongue samples the flavors. saying it's a bite of a cloud is overdoing it with the flowery language, but it fits denji's innocent love and praise of good food. because it is good. the flavors are nice, even if it's a little more on the sweet side than bakugo would pick. it's not overpowering, which makes it pleasant, and the way it melts on his tongue is a surprisingly interesting sensation for a store-bought cake. light enough not to make the katsudon from earlier turn into a gut bomb. he presses it against his palate with his tongue, then swallows after a few chews. mah, if he had to get a cake, he wouldn't mind picking this kind up. might check the box before throwing it away to get the name and brand for future reference. certainly contrasts the action and gore of a zombie movie.
bakugo's not a proponent of gore despite threatening to 'splatter' his opponents in those wild threats of his. but it doesn't gross him out either. zombie movies make it more tolerable as well, since it's dead people ripping apart dead people. mostly. some of it's ridiculous enough to snirk at. he glances down when denji's foot brushes against his own under the blanket, but doesn't respond otherwise. unless he does it again, then he'll nudge him back like a brat. wanna start something?
when the salesmen turns into a martial arts prodigy against the zombies, that gets a snort of amusement from him. hey, he can appreciate a martial arts film, and getting that flavor in this ridiculous film pushes it over the edge into stupid fun territory. somehow made more acceptable since he's watching it with denji. who finally breaks the rule and talks during the film. initially bakugo's ready to tell him to shut his mouth, but the idea of "impressing" his date piques his curiosity.
it's equally ridiculous, but strangely cute charming when denji prides his story on taking out a zombie devil. he scoffs at the question as he sinks down in the warmth of the couch and blanket.] You admit you killed a lame ass wuss of a devil and want me to be impressed? [bakugo rolls his head to the side to look at denji with a wry face.] The cake was more impressive. [could be taunting him, could be truthful.] You've killed more dangerous things than a zombie devil.
[ the little bickering of their feet under the blanket wasn't more than a playful gesture, and he would only do it to get the hero's attention when a dumb scene earns a scoff out of denji, a quiet 'look at this bullshit' and at time, bakugou did match the energy. this is a safe sign that they are both enjoying the movie, which is a win. that alone marks this night as a successful date, doesn't it? it didn't need to be so complicated. this is just fine, if not — perfect. ]
Oh ... [ well, bakugou made a smart remark. if he wanted to impress him, he should've lied and referred to the zombie devil as this ridiculously strong beast and hyped himself out. he could, but — with a tired sigh, he didn't have it in him to lie. especially to bakugou. ] ... the cake was more impressive. Hmm, you got a point there.
[ 'You've killed more dangerous things than a zombie devil.' ah. that's ... true, isn't it? while he's certain the hero is referring to the recent kaiju attack and the strength of those orcas, denji found himself reflecting on the past instead. it's weird, and it's not coming from a place of lacking confidence in himself, but the word 'killed' is more graphic than 'defeated', and with it comes — pride in that achievement. denji has failed many times, and he often dwells on those realities, but he also killed powerful devils. bakugou probably had no intent to boost anyone's ego here, but he will fucking take it that way because he's allowed to feel good about himself. besides, denji could use a bit of a boost, and inject his brain with a 'can do' attitude since a tricky devil is lurking in the neo city along his side. doing what? who knows? she's always up to something ...
he relaxed his head back, tipping his chin upward so he could regard the other boy. his lashes lower a bit, too comfortable to waste energy stressing over makima right now. he'll leave that fun session when he's alone in bed. for now, all he cares about is dynamight. ] I don't mind killing dangerous things. Show me the enemy and I will kill it. What I struggle with ... is finding out who is the enemy. Who to trust. I'm not smart like that.
[ uneducated, desperate, and naive — perfect prey for manipulation and devils had a special skill in toying with emotions like this. at times he questioned himself if he could ever build any genuine relationship with anyone. did he deserve to have that type of intimacy whether it was romantic or platonic? everyone around him is either killed by something or by his own hands. all roads end in death, and he's alone. he's so lonely; struggling to cope that he might have to always choose between happiness and the safety of others. having both seems like an impossible dream. ]
I trust you, though.
[ truly an impossible dream ... that he will stupidly pursue whenever someone shows him a hint of kindness. even if all devils in hell and earth riot against him, he will always try to have the freedom to decide his own fate. makima is here and her goals are the same— but should he cower away when he's this close to human contact? it was hard to be cautious when bakugou is this close to him. ]
You keep calling me shitty names, and you're too loud and you look super mad all the time, but you always helped me out. I learned you're honest. I like honest people ...
[the movie doesn't suck. it's mindless fun and sometimes you have to go for something like that to wipe everything else away. for all the impressive feats bakugou can claim, he's still a teenager and should probably be told to ease up a bit more and do normal teenager things. apparently going on a date with denji is normal teenage thing enough to see him sitting here, watching the screen, eating cake, and sharing a blanket with another boy while occasionally dealing with physical banter.
yeah, definitely should've have sold himself strong rather than bragging about beating a weak devil. that's not gonna get anyone staring in awe. especially someone like bakugou, who demands some HIGH STATUS feats to earn his non-communicated impressed. not that he expects denji to lie about this, and that tired sigh says a lot about the guy. the fact denji wanted to do this, went shopping, bought cake, helped in the kitchen, cleaned, all of this, and still minded bakugou's preferences in the whole night, is impressive enough for the blonde. it's why he's sitting here on the couch with him.] You don't have to push yourself tonight.
[no need to impress his date. no need to puff himself up. bakugou is half commenting on the shachimon they faced earlier, but also commenting on devils he's sure denji has fought and killed in his own world. the guy's battling style, the flexibility with his devil powers, things he's said... denji's not someone who was yanked here after he stumbled upon his half-devil self. he's fought, dealt with things, earned that tired look in his eyes and dead zone towards the world. the half-devil's seen some shit. the reason bakugou used the word "killed" rather than "defeated" (like some would expect a hero to do) is because he knows denji's not taking those chainsaws to devils and politely avoiding their vitals. in denji's world, that's the same as a hero taking down a villain and carting their lame criminal asses off to jail. he deserves the recognition for his accomplishments.]
Hn. You can't always rely on intelligence to know who to trust. Sometimes you have to say "fuck it" and go with your instinct. [denji's admission is quiet and simple, perhaps a naive downplay on his own damaged state and stunted learning. a street kid, a used tool, a lonely boy... how do you learn to trust when it's you against the world? some people throw caution to the wind and naively trust everyone in the hopes it'll work out this time. some people slam the walls shut and never let anyone close to avoid the risk of trusting badly again. knowing who to trust is hard sometimes. bakugou can't and won't demand denji improve that notion. he would obviously like it if the guy wouldn't get manipulated, would yell at him for trusting the wrong person even as he saved the half-devil from said person... but there's one truth that can be pulled from that notion of trust.
i trust you, though.
whether it's by instinct, development, or intelligence, bakugou can't say for denji. perhaps it's all of them. he turns his head slightly, looking at the other boy with a quiet expression. growing up, bakugou thought all heroes were trusted on principle, that he could expect every civilian to trust him because he's a strong hero and proved him with results... but after entering u.a., after seeing the world breaking up as hero society shook and crumbled from the relentless attacks... he learned how fragile that trust actually is. someone could call you the greatest hero one day, but tomorrow, curse you for falling below their expectations and betraying their trust. it's stupid, but that's a reality bakugou's faced in his world. so much more complex than his big-boy-in-a-small-town brain used to think.
it's because of that, when denji says "i trust you," it hits him a lot harder. because bakugou believes him. even if denji has trouble with being too trusting out of stupidity, naivety, desperation, and whatever else, bakugou realizes he doesn't ever want to betray this guy's trust. doesn't ever want to see denji look at him with disappointment. that would be a monumental failure, a loss the young hero has no intention of ever allowing to happen.] Hmph...
[bakugou watches those tawny eyes for a few more seconds, then turns back to the television.] Thanks.
[it's quiet, sincere, and totally ignores denji listing off three bads and a good. brat. the only thing he takes from that is this...] I like you too.
[ and yet, he's not really dismissing bakugou's advice, it was more of him making light of his past traumas for the sake of not ruining the vibe. it's their night; the hero will have a bigger part in his life soon, but not right now. there is a time and place to unload all his anxieties on the other.
when bakugou turned to look at him, denji felt a bit strange, almost nervous. it's not his first time getting in the hero's face, often to annoy him or try to be obnoxious, or when dynamight loses his temper and gives him a closeup yelling session— they've been at it for a while, but why did bakugou look different all of a sudden? first of all, he's not scowling; this might be denji's first time seeing an expression this soft, eyebrows relaxed and gaze is not as narrow. the red hues compliment the blonde lashes, almost sedating him with their depth, and most of all ... denji knew he was being heard. every word he uttered was taken to heart. when bakugou broke it off and opted to regard the screen instead, denji let out a suppressed exhale, shoulders dropping. what was that?! a thank you followed, and then a confession that he had heard before but not in that tone. it wasn't empty words. they are a manifestation of numerous acts that carried their sincerity. the hero proved it in his actions before using his tongue and that made it more powerful.
to bakugou's luck, he didn't say anything. he did smile, however. one that echoes more curiosity than resolve; a perfect reflection of how he's embracing all these new emotions. they are welcomed and yet remain an enigma. they both return to the movie for a good fifteen minutes as the plotline advances. denji is attentive to the screen, not willing to distract his partner more. was he paying attention? yes and no. he was steadily losing interest in the movie and it had nothing to do with him finding it tedious; it's just he found himself being aware of the light touch of their shoulders from time to time. that feeling is familiar, that warmth — the thrill of it. the excitement.
ah, okay. this is certainly new. he felt like he'd been reciting that thought repeatedly throughout the night with every step. it was just one surprise after another, wasn't it?
they continue watching the movie, and denji intends to keep it to himself until the final big boss battle between the corporate dad and the big zombie baddie. it was silly enough to tame those butterflies, and it prompted a few chuckles out of him. the foolery cleared his head, and he flexed his arms forward, slipping back to their usual chemistry. ]
Tell me, hero. How should 'the best date ever' end?
[ between one side holding up high standards and the other has zero to none — they need to find a middle ground. a compromise to please both parties. ]
[sometimes intelligence is the one to follow, but sometimes instincts are the way to go. denji probably has some jacked up instincts as well, clashing between survivalist and wanting acceptance. that could make for some insane instinctive tug of wars between the two distinct sides. at some point, denji's going to unload on him; he can predict that well enough. depending on when and where will depend on the reaction the half-devil gets.
bakugou's as apt to look someone in the face when talking to them as he is to ignore them entirely while mouthing off. though he's also 100% the person to yell if someone doesn't look at him while addressing him, cause RUDE. then again, denji's right about the number of times he's seen the blonde's face in various states of yelling at him or glaring at him for one thing or another. though he's also seen bakugou contemplative as he works on a task, to say nothing of his usual scowling RBF. this time, he's looking at denji so the half-devil knows he's listening. he wants to see it in denji's face that he's being acknowledged, words are taken in and valued rather than simply passed over as nothing. it's not completely surprising to see that flicker of unfamiliarity in the other boy's eyes when he realizes that. bakugou wonders how many times in denji's life has someone actually listened to him with the intent to acknowledge what he says is worth keeping. no clue, no answer, but he can at least do that for him. even as he looks away and thanks him for his words, ultimately culminating in a quiet confession of some feelings, it's because bakugou trusts denji to listen to him too. and understand the underlying mass that conveys in those few words.
bakugou's always held actions over words, accepting words are important most of the time, but can mean shit if they're not backed up by actions. plus words are often annoying, embarrassing to say when an action can just as easily (or should just as easily) convey what the words say. part of it is bakugou's tough guy image, not wanting to verbalize things that make him look soft or vulnerable, both of which convey "weakness" to his mind and not something he wants other people thinking of him. even if that's toxic masculinity and irrational. it's the way he grew up. with denji, he doesn't have to say things, isn't pestered to vocalize what the other boy can pick up on from his actions. that makes bakugou feel safer, more comfortable, and enables him to actually say things like this because he trusts denji not to look down on him for doing so, or annoy him by demanding more.
right. the movie. yeah, it's happening. it's not bad. but bakugou's more focused on denji. the warmth between them, the occasional touch, the fact they're still together under the blanket. he hasn't done this since he was fucking... 5 or something.
but the movie's ending finally prompts him to push the thoughts to the side and move the now-empty cake box to the couch arm, blanket falling away to his waist in the process. mah, the warmth is missed already, but it's not like he's going to fall asleep on the couch beside denji, right?
oh, that question. bakugou's arrested by it, blinking once. like, his brain immediately goes to the stupid movie version of ending a date, since his mom forced him to watch a handful of them with her when he was younger. that's... embarrassing and awkward as fuck, and denji's not gay. duh. but just "bye" and walking off sounds like a dump he doesn't think either of them want to endure. because it wasn't a bad date. so what would cap this off perfectly? dinner. movie. dessert.]
[ bakugou moved, denji didn't — instead he watched the other boy sit up a bit, instantly hating the cool breeze that slipped between them as a reminder of the empty room that awaits him. to be honest, this is his first time surviving a date to this stage without any dilemmas, and that alone made him excited. he knew it was probably not a big deal to many, having two people enjoy a yummy meal, watch a movie, and end up having fun— it's not a marriage proposal but this is something he never had. it made him feel like a teen. a normal teen. human. denji was more attentive, more relaxed, watching bakugou contemplate an answer with curious eyes.
plan the next one? another date. the hero is asking for another one.
that's when he joined the other, pulling himself out of his cozy cocoon and sitting up a bit. he reached for the remote, lowering the volume as the credits played out, stripping them of any form of distraction. besides, it will help them to figure out when they're no longer alone; easier to hear the door slam and approaching footsteps. denji didn't give a fuck but he knew his partner is more — reserved. ]
Alright. Um ... next Friday. After work.
[ they know each other's shifts and their day off falls on a normal weekend for a change. since all he had to do was give a time and a date, denji left it at that. a direct answer. what they will do on that second date is unknown but he trusts by then he should figure it out and maybe - understand what he wants. okay, wait— did he actually have a decent date? let that sink in for a fucking second. denji didn't even realize this entire time he was lowkey waiting for something bad to happen, and now that it's reaching an end and they agreed to do this again ... he's supposed to go back to his room and call it a night? leave on a high note. leave when they both yearn for more instead of being glad it's over. bakugou's right; this is the perfect way to end a perfect date.
he's right. but- what if? ]
How about a hug? for a 'good night'.
[ it's not a kiss, nothing too lewd, yet somehow far more intimate than an ass squeeze. it can be that bad and it can be totally innocent, and denji likes to believe he's doing it more to tame his craving for that closeness that he's been deprived of. plus, a nice treat for pochita. the pup sure loves hugs and this is his first successful date, too. right, it would be a bit uncomfortable with both of them sitting down on the sofa, and as much as he hates it, he pushed the blanket off him completely and stood up. fuck, his icy room will be hell tonight, more reason to torment bakugou with this request.
he spreads his arms wide open, half-smirking with a playful taunt. honestly? he won't be mad if bakugou flipped him off. the air is light, and there are no hard feelings. ]
[this is the first time bakugou's ever had a date. the idea of it has always been "stupid" to him. he's never been one to think much about spending time with someone else. certainly not like this. dates were "sappy" and "annoying" things that intruded on schedules and work that's more important. but now his very first date is coming to a close and... he can't say he disliked it at all. maybe it's due to denji being the one he dated. which is kind of fucking weird, since while he doesn't have a problem with it, he never thought his first date would be with another boy. denji did agree this was a date. that doesn't mean it has to be romantic though. even if they certainly did... do some things people might consider romantic. he shoves the ideas out of his head.
after all, more important things are happening. in that they need to plan the second one. there were other ideas for how to end their date, stick it with that 'perfect' ending bakugou would demand of himself. but only one things is safe enough to be said without turning weird, awkward, cheesy, disappointing, rushing, or a host of other negatives. they finished one. what better thing to do than to ask for another one?
denji doesn't just accept and leave bakugou the onus of picking. he takes initiative and offers the date and time. that takes a lot of pressure off the hero and he silently appreciates that. even if denji follows him in things plenty of times, he's not weak. making his own decisions and stating his own preferences. bakugou likes that about him. so yeah... this definitely works.]
All right.
[yeah. they work in the same place. sometime they're on the same shift, same beat, same route, sometimes they're split up, but always together at the start and end of the day. the occasional weird requirement shaking up that norm. bakugou likewise doesn't think it important to decide what they're going to do and where they're going to go right now for the second date. that's something they can think about as the week trucks on and then either talk about it when it happens, or perhaps discuss it over the week via calls or if grabbing lunch together. guess it's good to have a reason to talk to someone, rather than waiting for them to get out of the awkward stage and spit it out.]
Haa? [wait, he thought this was done! and now denji's right there... asking for a hug. (who the fuck's comparing a hug to an ass squeeze?) half of bakugou's face creases in a "the hell?" sort of expression, confused and unsure at the same time. his own mother has a hard enough time trying to hug her son without the bristly kid ducking and worming out of the way like a yelling rat. but kirishima's been given silent permission to drop his elbow on bakugou's shoulder without getting blasted in the face for it, and can even put his arm around the blonde safely. one of the few people who can. because bakugou trusts him and is comfortable around him enough to permit it.
now denji's asking for a hug. standing there with his arms open and that little look on his face. teasing him? no. bakugou pushes himself up, catching and tossing the blanket back onto the couch. couldn't have asked for this while they were on the couch so he could get away with a shoulder bump or something, could he. tch, bastard... there are very few people he's ever hugged in his life. each time for a reason.]
Che. [denji gets flipped off, bakugou's hand curled upward by his hip in a middle-finger spearing jut. before he leans forward and wraps an arm around the other boy's body. head turned to the side slightly, eyes definitely aimed somewhere else, scowling face a bit pink, definitely noticing denji is taller than him, a warm and solid body under that shirt.] Dumbass.
[ he kept those arms still, smile steady and not a hint of doubt on sight. the middle finger is expected, and it made his lips curl up some more and kept reaching out for him despite the hesitation behind bakugou's scowl. he won't stop until he hears a solid 'no' but luckily the hero didn't keep him waiting for long, and that's when it started getting — interesting.
bakugou complied, and he watched him step closer, one arm holding into him before his own could do anything. he found himself thinking (his brain is truly working overtime tonight. fucking hell), but shut it off before the thoughts had any influence on him, he would leave that for later. denji knows they will harass him when there's nothing around him but silence, and that's fine. other priorities took the lead and he finally relaxed, moving his arms around a foreign body, far too callous unlike nayuta and pochita's more delicate frame. he lowers his head so he could rest it against bakugou's; one arm curled around his shoulders, and the other settled on the center of his back, trapping him into the embrace — and it was a strong one from the start, firm, bodies pressed against each other.
there is a sense of familiarity in it ... as if it wasn't their first time at all. as if denji knew where to position his arms, comfortable with the other's body against his own. a hug between old friends. it's subtle, the way denji's breathing slowed down until his chest raised and fell in a quiet sigh. it lingered for a bit, and he closed his eyes, taking in another inhale before he urged himself not to push his luck. he was careful with his hands, more careful with his footing, careful not to make it too invasive. well, that was the plan. he likes to believe he did just fine to tame his curiosity while respecting bakugou's boundaries until it was time to break it off— and that's when he relaxed his arms, unmindful of the manner his hands slipped lower and traced along bakugou's, hmm, oddly slim waist before he let him go.
was it intentional? honestly, no. even denji didn't expect himself to do it but he's certainly had no fucking problem staring the other down with an inappropriately relaxed half-smile. an expression that was hard to read, because he wasn't fucking thinking about anything, head empty. aside from the simple, single-brain cell realization of being ... intrigued. ]
Good night, Katsuki. This is, without any doubt, the best date I ever had.
[ he's not asking the hero to return the gesture, he's fine with anything coming his way from the long list of 'chainsaw' related nicknames. denji is just that pleased.
[interesting. it's not the word he would have used to describe the feeling. awkward is more like it... and yet, bakugou can't find it in himself to hate the feeling. this is the young man who dodges and yells at his classmates' attempts to smack christmas sweaters or hats on his head during the holiday, who even arches and ducks out of his own mother and father's attempts to hug him as he headed off to the new dorms before a national war. and yet, denji's embracing him and bakugou... he's certainly not pushing him off. obviously, since he was the one who accepted the invitation and implemented the embrace.
he'll be thinking about this later. the feeling of denji's body against his own. strong muscle on his chest, the pleasant v of a well-formed torso beneath his arm, solid shoulders and warmth radiating from the half-devil's core he hasn't felt anywhere else. the truly oddest part is when denji simply drops his head against bakugou's own. there's a different between just putting your arms around someone... and resting your damn head against theirs. yet the half-devil's doing just that. sandy blonde hair nuzzling into spiky ashen blonde, ears brushing together as more than just chest and arms touch in this little connected moment. it's not shoulders brushing side by side on the couch, or occasionally kicking at each other's feet to be brats. this is a quiet, warm, momentary entrapment of an embrace, with one of denji's arms around his shoulders, the other curled at the diamond of his back. strong, solid, firm, warm, pressed together, two young men in a strange world taking comfort in each other. and perhaps a bit more.
nostalgic? the briefest of gossamer glimmers in such a shade floats through. as if he's felt this before. denji's embrace. his arms, his head, his breath, his heartbeat against his own. it should be weird or even disturbing, and yet it's only comforting. bakugou's arms settle in a position that he feels is best, curled round denji's shoulder blades and hip. weird as fuck, yet pleasant. as if the embrace was an invitation to take a snooze right here in these strong arms. a gentle breath, a nigh-silent sigh, and then denji's finally relaxing his arms as bakugou lowers his own. his face... might be a bit pink, but damn if he's ever going to acknowledge that! hands fall away, drift down his back, and slide right over his waist in a manner bakugou's suddenly not sure if intentional or accidental. his shoulders tense, eyes widening, the idea to knee denji in the nuts flickering in his mind. but none of that goes anywhere as he finds himself accepting even that touch. wasn't like he hadn't been paying attention to the definitions beneath denji's shirt. even where that ripcord dangled between his pecs.
maybe a good thing they step back and bakugou can find something very interesting with the wall clock to glare at. time, right, look at the time and not at denji for a few seconds. before finally looking back at him, at that cloud-soft half-smile, all relaxed and essentially blank-slate except for a good feeling. fucking doe-eyed sap. bakugou gives him a flat look. good thing he's used to denji being a little weird from time to time? and he's not... complaining about it.]
Tch. It better stay that way, Denji. Until I top it myself. [right, because being in contest with yourself is a thing to do on dates. bakugou is only minorly miffed at denji using his given name, but feels the other boy earned it. with one last look, he decides that's enough and heads past the half-devil, going to the stairs to make for his room. there's a lot to think about and he'd rather do that alone before going to sleep. the second date will be in his mind throughout the week; that's for sure.]
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
no subject
he chuckled under his breath, relaxing back on the sofa with a lazy smile. ] ... I've been on dates before coming here.
[ failure after another, but denji had his share of testing the waters with the soft gender. except, every woman that seemed to be interested in him either threw up in his mouth and sexually assaulted him, another tried to kill him, more killing attempts, one was turned into a dog, and then one more sexual assault. not a bright record one might say— traumatizing even, but he didn't need to use bakugou as a stepping stone. more scrolling, and then it slowed down and settled on a new action hit. zombies. let's watch some zombies killing people on this romantic date. it's quite fitting for this city, isn't it?
more importantly, bakugou said 'yes'. it's a bit— surprising, as he was lowkey prepared to defend his argument more only to get acceptance with ease. if he didn't know that guy the way he did, denji would've assumed this was coming off from a place of compassion. however, bakugou would never ever humor him this way. he'd get a flat-out 'fuck off' with a blast to the face if he wasn't ... well, fine with it. okay. not gonna lie, he is flattered. a bit. teeny weeny little bit. ]
I can promise you it's the best fucking date I had so far. It's normal. Normal is not bad in my world.
[ as the movie begins, denji boosts up the volume a touch, not too loud that it would make it hard to have a conversation, setting up the mood of a cinema experience in their humble common area. the everlight base was empty tonight, quiet, with tame lighting. it's those small details that barely caught his attention that are slowly becoming more vivid. hmm. he glanced at bakugou from the corner of his eye, he'd wait for him to notice before he asked. ]
You wanna get cozy? For the movie ...
no subject
that small laugh and denji's recline backwards earns a brief flick from those red eyes.] Doesn't change my comment.
[bakugou still wants to be the best one in denji's mind if they're going to call it a date. is that staking a claim on the other boy? holy fuck, he doesn't know! at least let him be known as the best date and he'll be happy with it. there's no reason he has for trying to off denji either. not that he's going to recognize that strange reality without denji opening up about it.
seriously? he wants to watch zombies? ... well it's action, and this isn't a romantic date, so why the hell not watch zombies get blown to pieces? they just finished destroying a shit ton of sea monsters.
bakugou doesn't want to have a defense argument about the date! he already said yes to it (even if that wasn't the definition of their date back then) and hates being second guessed or challenged after he makes a decision. denji doesn't push for it, something bakugou appreciates about him. he's easy going for the most part, but not in a way that makes bakugou want to manipulate or bully him. denji has his own strength, present and growing, and he's not about to step on it. and if he's honest, the half-devil isn't a bad date to have.]
Must've had some shit dates in your past. Just kick back and watch the movie.
[he's fucking glad for the emptiness. even then, the common room usually sees people watching news or a movie, so it wouldn't be horrible if someone came in and saw. that said, it's only a few seconds before he feels eyes on him and flick his gaze to the side, noticing denji looking at him. his jaw tenses, ready to snap out a "what" before the other boy asks.
c- ... cozy? what the hell kind of question is that? his mind immediately flicks to two interpretations of the meaning, both exemplified by his parents when he was younger and caught them watching a movie together. bleh.]
What d'ya mean by "cozy"?
[because his mind is 1) some clothes come off, or 2) get close together.]
no subject
he didn't understand it, but it was denji feeling safe around someone else. that's what he interpreted as feeling 'good' while in reality, it's him realizing that he can trust this individual. even nayuta, despite how much he loves her, he couldn't drop his guard around the control devil. imagine how exhausting it is— when your body is in a constant fight or flight mode, every breathing second of your day and night, nonstop for years. denji is tired. he's tired all the time. it's evident in his slow speech, hunched form, and airy stares. it took him a while, whether bakugou was aware of it or not, but it was only recently he noticed himself - acting different when they're together. as if he was not afraid anymore. it started from the night when the hero agreed to prepare a bath for him, from the second denji felt it's okay to strip bare— because it's safe. perhaps that act isn't significant, even to denji at the time, but it was the pinpoint of where he crossed and pushed aside those heavy weights.
bakugou is his safe space, too. ]
Relaaaax. I come in peace.
[ guy to guy communication. in other words, he understood bakugou's demand for clarification on the spot. he didn't forget about the other's critique of denji's idea of a date, not surprised the golden boy has strict demands. shifting a bit, he reached over to the blanket resting on the sofa's arm, dragging it along as he moved closer to the other. the seating was big enough to accommodate a group of four, and denji speaks from experience during everlight's group activities and other movie nights, so it looked kinda ridiculous to have such a gap between two people on a date. plus, it's cold in here. the heating system apparently can only focus on one task and it decided to keep the waters warm and nothing else. ]
Hold this.
[ he gestures for bakugou to grab their cake so he can toss the blanket around them both, burying their bodies from the chest down under the thick fabric. denji settled in, sinking into the soft cushion of the sofa behind him, side by side with bakugou— with their arms lightly pressing against each other whenever one moved. there. cozy.
he then grabs his plate, already digging his fork into the fluffy sponge, eager for a taste. ] Don't fall asleep. I know you love to go to bed early but we're watching the whole thing on our date.
no subject
someday, if they get into each other's backgrounds, he'll understand more why denji looks so haggard at the time. bakugou won't say he has an "easy" life either, putting so much effort and focus on his training as a hero, and then all the decidedly-non-school issues all for one, the league of villains, and others have placed upon what should've been a bunch of young students' normal school year. none of them entered u.a.'s gates that year thinking they'd be fighting for their nation's survival in a massive civil war by the end of said year. yet here, things are slower, and in this little pocket, bakugou can finally rest for a while. he trusts denji to be that safe space. even if he won't say it. because ugh... saying it.]
Urusei. [don't mock him with that "come in peace" line. you know he was going to question it the second you said 'get cozy' to the world's prickliest grenade! besides, denji's never struck him as an overly physical person either. at least not off the bat with new people. of which... the two of them are neither of those two each other. is this a critique of denji's dating? not really. bakugou just doesn't like getting close to people in general. he's not a touchy feely kind of guy. a few scant exceptions existing. usually by people who earned them. as denji pulls at the blanket and scoots closer to him, bakugou doesn't lean away or growl at him. looks like the half-devils's one of the few who earned that exception. really, the only reason for the gap previously was the understood reality that someone coming in and seeing them sitting side by side under a blanket would definitely construe an assumption neither of them (apparently) want.]
Don't order me around. [and yet bakugou still holds the cake box, lifting it up overhead when the blanket gets tossed over his body. arms free from the covering, he lets it settle around his chest, then kicks his legs up onto the ottoman in front of them, leaving his slips on the floor for the time being. as denji settles in beside him, bakugou lower his arms and rests the cake box on his lap, not minding the occasional bump of shoulder and arm against the other boy. it's instantly warmer. a welcome warmth in the cold weather.
after that, it's just a matter of flicking open the cake box and then digging in with his fork. bakugou eyes the piece, less out of judgement and more simple curiosity as to what denji picked out. then takes the bite.] I've never fallen asleep watching a movie. Brat.
[coupled with a brief jab of his elbow into denji's ribs for daring to suggest he might.]
no subject
he smiled at that playful jab, watching as the hero examined the offered cake. ] It tastes like you're taking a bite from a cloud. Honestly, worth the wait.
[ more sugar, but not too scikly sweet. it melts on your tongue with ease and certainly compliments the hearty meal they had a few minutes earlier. denji's toes curl in a subtle display of pure delight. it's yummy-licious! bakugou is free to indulge or decide he's not a fan, there's no pressure in this one. as for the movie, it starts with a typical day in the life, the characters' introduction, and all the false happiness that's about to be crushed by the undead. denji stayed quiet, oddly attentive even in the 'boring' scenes. he made no effort to start a conversation with the other, nor did he seem annoyed if there was any attempt from bakugou's side— but it's clear he was into it. it was a typical zombie flick, nothing too in-depth but it's a fun watch for those who enjoy action sequences, mild horror, and gory scenes.
they are halfway through the screening and denji's cake is long gone, blissfully full, and satisfied for the night. somehow he ended up sinking even further into the cushions with his legs stretched over the ottoman, idly swaying his foot to nudge bakugou's from time to time. he didn't give a fuck even if a kaiju bust in here, he's too comfortable to ever move from this spot now. they enter act two when the average salesman dad is suddenly some kung-fu zombie killing machine, ready to take down more. listen, it's funny and stupid, denji knows, but fucking entertaining regardless. it's one of those movies.
eventually, he does end up breaking his own rule of 'no talking during the movie'. after all, this is meant to be a special night so he doesn't plan to be too strict. ]
Oh yeah. I need to impress my date, right? [ he didn't wait for bakugou to answer, instead he cleared his throat and ran with it. ] I killed the zombie devil once, you know. You might think it would be strong since a lot of people are scared of zombies, but it was weak. Sliced him down like a cherry tomato.
[ he turns his head to glance at his partner. ] Are you impressed?
no subject
she's not here. cake and denji are. he slips the piece into his mouth, chewing it as his tongue samples the flavors. saying it's a bite of a cloud is overdoing it with the flowery language, but it fits denji's innocent love and praise of good food. because it is good. the flavors are nice, even if it's a little more on the sweet side than bakugo would pick. it's not overpowering, which makes it pleasant, and the way it melts on his tongue is a surprisingly interesting sensation for a store-bought cake. light enough not to make the katsudon from earlier turn into a gut bomb. he presses it against his palate with his tongue, then swallows after a few chews. mah, if he had to get a cake, he wouldn't mind picking this kind up. might check the box before throwing it away to get the name and brand for future reference. certainly contrasts the action and gore of a zombie movie.
bakugo's not a proponent of gore despite threatening to 'splatter' his opponents in those wild threats of his. but it doesn't gross him out either. zombie movies make it more tolerable as well, since it's dead people ripping apart dead people. mostly. some of it's ridiculous enough to snirk at. he glances down when denji's foot brushes against his own under the blanket, but doesn't respond otherwise. unless he does it again, then he'll nudge him back like a brat. wanna start something?
when the salesmen turns into a martial arts prodigy against the zombies, that gets a snort of amusement from him. hey, he can appreciate a martial arts film, and getting that flavor in this ridiculous film pushes it over the edge into stupid fun territory. somehow made more acceptable since he's watching it with denji. who finally breaks the rule and talks during the film. initially bakugo's ready to tell him to shut his mouth, but the idea of "impressing" his date piques his curiosity.
it's equally ridiculous, but strangely
cutecharming when denji prides his story on taking out a zombie devil. he scoffs at the question as he sinks down in the warmth of the couch and blanket.] You admit you killed a lame ass wuss of a devil and want me to be impressed? [bakugo rolls his head to the side to look at denji with a wry face.] The cake was more impressive. [could be taunting him, could be truthful.] You've killed more dangerous things than a zombie devil.no subject
Oh ... [ well, bakugou made a smart remark. if he wanted to impress him, he should've lied and referred to the zombie devil as this ridiculously strong beast and hyped himself out. he could, but — with a tired sigh, he didn't have it in him to lie. especially to bakugou. ] ... the cake was more impressive. Hmm, you got a point there.
[ 'You've killed more dangerous things than a zombie devil.' ah. that's ... true, isn't it? while he's certain the hero is referring to the recent kaiju attack and the strength of those orcas, denji found himself reflecting on the past instead. it's weird, and it's not coming from a place of lacking confidence in himself, but the word 'killed' is more graphic than 'defeated', and with it comes — pride in that achievement. denji has failed many times, and he often dwells on those realities, but he also killed powerful devils. bakugou probably had no intent to boost anyone's ego here, but he will fucking take it that way because he's allowed to feel good about himself. besides, denji could use a bit of a boost, and inject his brain with a 'can do' attitude since a tricky devil is lurking in the neo city along his side. doing what? who knows? she's always up to something ...
he relaxed his head back, tipping his chin upward so he could regard the other boy. his lashes lower a bit, too comfortable to waste energy stressing over makima right now. he'll leave that fun session when he's alone in bed. for now, all he cares about is dynamight. ] I don't mind killing dangerous things. Show me the enemy and I will kill it. What I struggle with ... is finding out who is the enemy. Who to trust. I'm not smart like that.
[ uneducated, desperate, and naive — perfect prey for manipulation and devils had a special skill in toying with emotions like this. at times he questioned himself if he could ever build any genuine relationship with anyone. did he deserve to have that type of intimacy whether it was romantic or platonic? everyone around him is either killed by something or by his own hands. all roads end in death, and he's alone. he's so lonely; struggling to cope that he might have to always choose between happiness and the safety of others. having both seems like an impossible dream. ]
I trust you, though.
[ truly an impossible dream ... that he will stupidly pursue whenever someone shows him a hint of kindness. even if all devils in hell and earth riot against him, he will always try to have the freedom to decide his own fate. makima is here and her goals are the same— but should he cower away when he's this close to human contact? it was hard to be cautious when bakugou is this close to him. ]
You keep calling me shitty names, and you're too loud and you look super mad all the time, but you always helped me out. I learned you're honest. I like honest people ...
no subject
yeah, definitely should've have sold himself strong rather than bragging about beating a weak devil. that's not gonna get anyone staring in awe. especially someone like bakugou, who demands some HIGH STATUS feats to earn his non-communicated impressed. not that he expects denji to lie about this, and that tired sigh says a lot about the guy. the fact denji wanted to do this, went shopping, bought cake, helped in the kitchen, cleaned, all of this, and still minded bakugou's preferences in the whole night, is impressive enough for the blonde. it's why he's sitting here on the couch with him.] You don't have to push yourself tonight.
[no need to impress his date. no need to puff himself up. bakugou is half commenting on the shachimon they faced earlier, but also commenting on devils he's sure denji has fought and killed in his own world. the guy's battling style, the flexibility with his devil powers, things he's said... denji's not someone who was yanked here after he stumbled upon his half-devil self. he's fought, dealt with things, earned that tired look in his eyes and dead zone towards the world. the half-devil's seen some shit. the reason bakugou used the word "killed" rather than "defeated" (like some would expect a hero to do) is because he knows denji's not taking those chainsaws to devils and politely avoiding their vitals. in denji's world, that's the same as a hero taking down a villain and carting their lame criminal asses off to jail. he deserves the recognition for his accomplishments.]
Hn. You can't always rely on intelligence to know who to trust. Sometimes you have to say "fuck it" and go with your instinct. [denji's admission is quiet and simple, perhaps a naive downplay on his own damaged state and stunted learning. a street kid, a used tool, a lonely boy... how do you learn to trust when it's you against the world? some people throw caution to the wind and naively trust everyone in the hopes it'll work out this time. some people slam the walls shut and never let anyone close to avoid the risk of trusting badly again. knowing who to trust is hard sometimes. bakugou can't and won't demand denji improve that notion. he would obviously like it if the guy wouldn't get manipulated, would yell at him for trusting the wrong person even as he saved the half-devil from said person... but there's one truth that can be pulled from that notion of trust.
i trust you, though.
whether it's by instinct, development, or intelligence, bakugou can't say for denji. perhaps it's all of them. he turns his head slightly, looking at the other boy with a quiet expression. growing up, bakugou thought all heroes were trusted on principle, that he could expect every civilian to trust him because he's a strong hero and proved him with results... but after entering u.a., after seeing the world breaking up as hero society shook and crumbled from the relentless attacks... he learned how fragile that trust actually is. someone could call you the greatest hero one day, but tomorrow, curse you for falling below their expectations and betraying their trust. it's stupid, but that's a reality bakugou's faced in his world. so much more complex than his big-boy-in-a-small-town brain used to think.
it's because of that, when denji says "i trust you," it hits him a lot harder. because bakugou believes him. even if denji has trouble with being too trusting out of stupidity, naivety, desperation, and whatever else, bakugou realizes he doesn't ever want to betray this guy's trust. doesn't ever want to see denji look at him with disappointment. that would be a monumental failure, a loss the young hero has no intention of ever allowing to happen.] Hmph...
[bakugou watches those tawny eyes for a few more seconds, then turns back to the television.] Thanks.
[it's quiet, sincere, and totally ignores denji listing off three bads and a good. brat. the only thing he takes from that is this...] I like you too.
[and you're fucking DEAD if you say something!]
no subject
[ and yet, he's not really dismissing bakugou's advice, it was more of him making light of his past traumas for the sake of not ruining the vibe. it's their night; the hero will have a bigger part in his life soon, but not right now. there is a time and place to unload all his anxieties on the other.
when bakugou turned to look at him, denji felt a bit strange, almost nervous. it's not his first time getting in the hero's face, often to annoy him or try to be obnoxious, or when dynamight loses his temper and gives him a closeup yelling session— they've been at it for a while, but why did bakugou look different all of a sudden? first of all, he's not scowling; this might be denji's first time seeing an expression this soft, eyebrows relaxed and gaze is not as narrow. the red hues compliment the blonde lashes, almost sedating him with their depth, and most of all ... denji knew he was being heard. every word he uttered was taken to heart. when bakugou broke it off and opted to regard the screen instead, denji let out a suppressed exhale, shoulders dropping. what was that?! a thank you followed, and then a confession that he had heard before but not in that tone. it wasn't empty words. they are a manifestation of numerous acts that carried their sincerity. the hero proved it in his actions before using his tongue and that made it more powerful.
to bakugou's luck, he didn't say anything. he did smile, however. one that echoes more curiosity than resolve; a perfect reflection of how he's embracing all these new emotions. they are welcomed and yet remain an enigma. they both return to the movie for a good fifteen minutes as the plotline advances. denji is attentive to the screen, not willing to distract his partner more. was he paying attention? yes and no. he was steadily losing interest in the movie and it had nothing to do with him finding it tedious; it's just he found himself being aware of the light touch of their shoulders from time to time. that feeling is familiar, that warmth — the thrill of it. the excitement.
ah, okay. this is certainly new. he felt like he'd been reciting that thought repeatedly throughout the night with every step. it was just one surprise after another, wasn't it?
they continue watching the movie, and denji intends to keep it to himself until the final big boss battle between the corporate dad and the big zombie baddie. it was silly enough to tame those butterflies, and it prompted a few chuckles out of him. the foolery cleared his head, and he flexed his arms forward, slipping back to their usual chemistry. ]
Tell me, hero. How should 'the best date ever' end?
[ between one side holding up high standards and the other has zero to none — they need to find a middle ground. a compromise to please both parties. ]
no subject
[sometimes intelligence is the one to follow, but sometimes instincts are the way to go. denji probably has some jacked up instincts as well, clashing between survivalist and wanting acceptance. that could make for some insane instinctive tug of wars between the two distinct sides. at some point, denji's going to unload on him; he can predict that well enough. depending on when and where will depend on the reaction the half-devil gets.
bakugou's as apt to look someone in the face when talking to them as he is to ignore them entirely while mouthing off. though he's also 100% the person to yell if someone doesn't look at him while addressing him, cause RUDE. then again, denji's right about the number of times he's seen the blonde's face in various states of yelling at him or glaring at him for one thing or another. though he's also seen bakugou contemplative as he works on a task, to say nothing of his usual scowling RBF. this time, he's looking at denji so the half-devil knows he's listening. he wants to see it in denji's face that he's being acknowledged, words are taken in and valued rather than simply passed over as nothing. it's not completely surprising to see that flicker of unfamiliarity in the other boy's eyes when he realizes that. bakugou wonders how many times in denji's life has someone actually listened to him with the intent to acknowledge what he says is worth keeping. no clue, no answer, but he can at least do that for him. even as he looks away and thanks him for his words, ultimately culminating in a quiet confession of some feelings, it's because bakugou trusts denji to listen to him too. and understand the underlying mass that conveys in those few words.
bakugou's always held actions over words, accepting words are important most of the time, but can mean shit if they're not backed up by actions. plus words are often annoying, embarrassing to say when an action can just as easily (or should just as easily) convey what the words say. part of it is bakugou's tough guy image, not wanting to verbalize things that make him look soft or vulnerable, both of which convey "weakness" to his mind and not something he wants other people thinking of him. even if that's toxic masculinity and irrational. it's the way he grew up. with denji, he doesn't have to say things, isn't pestered to vocalize what the other boy can pick up on from his actions. that makes bakugou feel safer, more comfortable, and enables him to actually say things like this because he trusts denji not to look down on him for doing so, or annoy him by demanding more.
right. the movie. yeah, it's happening. it's not bad. but bakugou's more focused on denji. the warmth between them, the occasional touch, the fact they're still together under the blanket. he hasn't done this since he was fucking... 5 or something.
but the movie's ending finally prompts him to push the thoughts to the side and move the now-empty cake box to the couch arm, blanket falling away to his waist in the process. mah, the warmth is missed already, but it's not like he's going to fall asleep on the couch beside denji, right?
oh, that question. bakugou's arrested by it, blinking once. like, his brain immediately goes to the stupid movie version of ending a date, since his mom forced him to watch a handful of them with her when he was younger. that's... embarrassing and awkward as fuck, and denji's not gay. duh. but just "bye" and walking off sounds like a dump he doesn't think either of them want to endure. because it wasn't a bad date. so what would cap this off perfectly? dinner. movie. dessert.]
Pick a time for the next one.
no subject
plan the next one? another date. the hero is asking for another one.
that's when he joined the other, pulling himself out of his cozy cocoon and sitting up a bit. he reached for the remote, lowering the volume as the credits played out, stripping them of any form of distraction. besides, it will help them to figure out when they're no longer alone; easier to hear the door slam and approaching footsteps. denji didn't give a fuck but he knew his partner is more — reserved. ]
Alright. Um ... next Friday. After work.
[ they know each other's shifts and their day off falls on a normal weekend for a change. since all he had to do was give a time and a date, denji left it at that. a direct answer. what they will do on that second date is unknown but he trusts by then he should figure it out and maybe - understand what he wants. okay, wait— did he actually have a decent date? let that sink in for a fucking second. denji didn't even realize this entire time he was lowkey waiting for something bad to happen, and now that it's reaching an end and they agreed to do this again ... he's supposed to go back to his room and call it a night? leave on a high note. leave when they both yearn for more instead of being glad it's over. bakugou's right; this is the perfect way to end a perfect date.
he's right. but- what if? ]
How about a hug? for a 'good night'.
[ it's not a kiss, nothing too lewd, yet somehow far more intimate than an ass squeeze. it can be that bad and it can be totally innocent, and denji likes to believe he's doing it more to tame his craving for that closeness that he's been deprived of. plus, a nice treat for pochita. the pup sure loves hugs and this is his first successful date, too. right, it would be a bit uncomfortable with both of them sitting down on the sofa, and as much as he hates it, he pushed the blanket off him completely and stood up. fuck, his icy room will be hell tonight, more reason to torment bakugou with this request.
he spreads his arms wide open, half-smirking with a playful taunt. honestly? he won't be mad if bakugou flipped him off. the air is light, and there are no hard feelings. ]
no subject
after all, more important things are happening. in that they need to plan the second one. there were other ideas for how to end their date, stick it with that 'perfect' ending bakugou would demand of himself. but only one things is safe enough to be said without turning weird, awkward, cheesy, disappointing, rushing, or a host of other negatives. they finished one. what better thing to do than to ask for another one?
denji doesn't just accept and leave bakugou the onus of picking. he takes initiative and offers the date and time. that takes a lot of pressure off the hero and he silently appreciates that. even if denji follows him in things plenty of times, he's not weak. making his own decisions and stating his own preferences. bakugou likes that about him. so yeah... this definitely works.]
All right.
[yeah. they work in the same place. sometime they're on the same shift, same beat, same route, sometimes they're split up, but always together at the start and end of the day. the occasional weird requirement shaking up that norm. bakugou likewise doesn't think it important to decide what they're going to do and where they're going to go right now for the second date. that's something they can think about as the week trucks on and then either talk about it when it happens, or perhaps discuss it over the week via calls or if grabbing lunch together. guess it's good to have a reason to talk to someone, rather than waiting for them to get out of the awkward stage and spit it out.]
Haa? [wait, he thought this was done! and now denji's right there... asking for a hug. (who the fuck's comparing a hug to an ass squeeze?) half of bakugou's face creases in a "the hell?" sort of expression, confused and unsure at the same time. his own mother has a hard enough time trying to hug her son without the bristly kid ducking and worming out of the way like a yelling rat. but kirishima's been given silent permission to drop his elbow on bakugou's shoulder without getting blasted in the face for it, and can even put his arm around the blonde safely. one of the few people who can. because bakugou trusts him and is comfortable around him enough to permit it.
now denji's asking for a hug. standing there with his arms open and that little look on his face. teasing him? no. bakugou pushes himself up, catching and tossing the blanket back onto the couch. couldn't have asked for this while they were on the couch so he could get away with a shoulder bump or something, could he. tch, bastard... there are very few people he's ever hugged in his life. each time for a reason.]
Che. [denji gets flipped off, bakugou's hand curled upward by his hip in a middle-finger spearing jut. before he leans forward and wraps an arm around the other boy's body. head turned to the side slightly, eyes definitely aimed somewhere else, scowling face a bit pink, definitely noticing denji is taller than him, a warm and solid body under that shirt.] Dumbass.
no subject
bakugou complied, and he watched him step closer, one arm holding into him before his own could do anything. he found himself thinking (his brain is truly working overtime tonight. fucking hell), but shut it off before the thoughts had any influence on him, he would leave that for later. denji knows they will harass him when there's nothing around him but silence, and that's fine. other priorities took the lead and he finally relaxed, moving his arms around a foreign body, far too callous unlike nayuta and pochita's more delicate frame. he lowers his head so he could rest it against bakugou's; one arm curled around his shoulders, and the other settled on the center of his back, trapping him into the embrace — and it was a strong one from the start, firm, bodies pressed against each other.
there is a sense of familiarity in it ... as if it wasn't their first time at all. as if denji knew where to position his arms, comfortable with the other's body against his own. a hug between old friends. it's subtle, the way denji's breathing slowed down until his chest raised and fell in a quiet sigh. it lingered for a bit, and he closed his eyes, taking in another inhale before he urged himself not to push his luck. he was careful with his hands, more careful with his footing, careful not to make it too invasive. well, that was the plan. he likes to believe he did just fine to tame his curiosity while respecting bakugou's boundaries until it was time to break it off— and that's when he relaxed his arms, unmindful of the manner his hands slipped lower and traced along bakugou's, hmm, oddly slim waist before he let him go.
was it intentional? honestly, no. even denji didn't expect himself to do it but he's certainly had no fucking problem staring the other down with an inappropriately relaxed half-smile. an expression that was hard to read, because he wasn't fucking thinking about anything, head empty. aside from the simple, single-brain cell realization of being ... intrigued. ]
Good night, Katsuki. This is, without any doubt, the best date I ever had.
[ he's not asking the hero to return the gesture, he's fine with anything coming his way from the long list of 'chainsaw' related nicknames. denji is just that pleased.
he's looking forward to the next one, for sure. ]
no subject
he'll be thinking about this later. the feeling of denji's body against his own. strong muscle on his chest, the pleasant v of a well-formed torso beneath his arm, solid shoulders and warmth radiating from the half-devil's core he hasn't felt anywhere else. the truly oddest part is when denji simply drops his head against bakugou's own. there's a different between just putting your arms around someone... and resting your damn head against theirs. yet the half-devil's doing just that. sandy blonde hair nuzzling into spiky ashen blonde, ears brushing together as more than just chest and arms touch in this little connected moment. it's not shoulders brushing side by side on the couch, or occasionally kicking at each other's feet to be brats. this is a quiet, warm, momentary entrapment of an embrace, with one of denji's arms around his shoulders, the other curled at the diamond of his back. strong, solid, firm, warm, pressed together, two young men in a strange world taking comfort in each other. and perhaps a bit more.
nostalgic? the briefest of gossamer glimmers in such a shade floats through. as if he's felt this before. denji's embrace. his arms, his head, his breath, his heartbeat against his own. it should be weird or even disturbing, and yet it's only comforting. bakugou's arms settle in a position that he feels is best, curled round denji's shoulder blades and hip. weird as fuck, yet pleasant. as if the embrace was an invitation to take a snooze right here in these strong arms. a gentle breath, a nigh-silent sigh, and then denji's finally relaxing his arms as bakugou lowers his own. his face... might be a bit pink, but damn if he's ever going to acknowledge that! hands fall away, drift down his back, and slide right over his waist in a manner bakugou's suddenly not sure if intentional or accidental. his shoulders tense, eyes widening, the idea to knee denji in the nuts flickering in his mind. but none of that goes anywhere as he finds himself accepting even that touch. wasn't like he hadn't been paying attention to the definitions beneath denji's shirt. even where that ripcord dangled between his pecs.
maybe a good thing they step back and bakugou can find something very interesting with the wall clock to glare at. time, right, look at the time and not at denji for a few seconds. before finally looking back at him, at that cloud-soft half-smile, all relaxed and essentially blank-slate except for a good feeling. fucking doe-eyed sap. bakugou gives him a flat look. good thing he's used to denji being a little weird from time to time? and he's not... complaining about it.]
Tch. It better stay that way, Denji. Until I top it myself. [right, because being in contest with yourself is a thing to do on dates. bakugou is only minorly miffed at denji using his given name, but feels the other boy earned it. with one last look, he decides that's enough and heads past the half-devil, going to the stairs to make for his room. there's a lot to think about and he'd rather do that alone before going to sleep. the second date will be in his mind throughout the week; that's for sure.]