[ it's a lot. in a way, he understands aki's feelings, and they both acknowledge they are struggling to cope with their cruel reality— they are trying their best to be better, to feel better; following the textbook. talk about it, cry your heart out, forgive, and then try to move on. they fucking did all of that. then why? why does it still feel so off?
he's quiet for a bit; expression going somber behind the flush from the mad heat, hair sticking to his sweat-drenched skin, yet he found himself in an odd trance that made him forget of physical discomfort. more silence, he then started walking down the narrow street again, idly seeking a nearby store or restaurant with a functioning cooling unit to recover. ]
do you agree? that sometimes the person shouldn't know? just to keep them happy?
[it's easy to say "he shouldn't" but far from easy to do. as much as katsuki tells his friends not to blame themselves for shit they didn't do or had no ability to stop, it's hard for him to practice what he preaches. he feels the weight of guilt and a desire to protect the people he's close to even if he knows he can't be everywhere and do everything he needs to.
it'll always feel off. just the same as a scar will always be present on the skin. wounds like that heal, but scars only fade with time, never disappearing. it's easy to forget that. katsuki reaches for a nearby water bottle.]
that's not a simple answer. lying to someone to keep them happy is bullshit.
but with this, it's between you and him.
if he asked you what happened after he died, it's up to you to tell him or not, but both of you need to be ready for whatever happens next.
i'm not talking about aki anymore. i'm asking you.
would you rather not know?
[ an honest question. denji could feel himself getting a bit nervous as he pushed through the crowd; he didn't predict a silly text of him whining over the heatwave to take such a turn and he wasn't prepared for any of this. his issue with aki is something he will have to handle since he chose to break the news to him about how it all ends between them— denji will have to deal with the consequences, there is no way out of it. it's too late.
however, he did confess to bakugou that they 'need to talk' on their last trip, and while he's not trying to seek a cheap escape— it wouldn't hurt to hear his partner's thoughts. ]
do you want to know everything about me? or, what we have here is all that matters?
huh? i learn more about you all the time! i don't want you to dump your life story on me in one go.
[there's nothing in denji's past that is going to break them up or turn katsuki off from him. there are things he might not agree with, things he won't like that happened, but none of that affects them here. nor does he want or need denji to extol him with everything in his life; things will come at their own pace and when they do, he'll ask and learn about them. sometimes prompted by events, sometimes his own curiosity.
so long as denji doesn't straight up lie to him there, it's a non-issue.]
when have you ever lied to me?
[technically keeping silent isn't lying, but... now katsuki's curious about what's going on.]
[ 'i don't want you to dump your life story on me in one go.' — ah, he was considering that option when he suggested that they talk about matters, but there is a sense of relief to be free of it. denji is no relationship expert, but he's pretty certain being honest with each other is one of the key pillars of a love courtship or something! he read that in a magazine ages ago, and it does make sense. if he could get bakugou to tell him everything about himself, his victories, fears, and learned lessons— denji wouldn't mind it. he would listen. he should know, right? it wouldn't feel nice if such intimate details were shared with someone else and not him.
he's not lying, yet it does feel a bit cowardly to seek refuge behind the golden opportunity here. the idea of confessing to murdering aki terrifies him; bakugou has proven himself to tolerate a lot from denji, yet he's certain there is a limit. there are matters worthy of sharing, concerns that would affect them here and right now. perhaps denji should focus on those. as a start. the rest is fated to rear its ugly head.
let him enjoy the other's company a little longer. ]
i never lied to you.
[ if bakugou asked, he would answer. truthfully. always will. ]
[don't take that the wrong way, denji. it's not said out of disinterest; it's said out of easing any onus the half-devil feels he has to give katsuki ever ounce of detail all at once. honesty is very important to the explosive hero (apart from when he's being a bratty grump in denial about "soft" things) and he doesn't think denji's lied to him before. not telling him something that isn't necessary for him to know isn't a lie either. the guy's past is dark with a lot of burdens neither of them want to try and juggle all at once. katsuki's not abut to tell denji his entire past either. half because he doesn't want to deal with the time/effort it'd take, half because there's shit in there he doesn't really want denji to know. his boyfriend saw some of it in that stupid memory earlier...
these things will come out in small moments, when conversation topic or life events and experiences prompt the comment or question regarding them. katsuki knows he'll tell denji more about himself in the future. the same way every relationship ends up learning more about the other side over time. without knowing what denji wants to tell him, he's left at the mercy of what the other boy holds back, as well as how the devil hunter opts to spin things.
katsuki's prepared to do battle with denji's doubts and guilt too.]
i know.
you mentioned it once. that's it.
[aki might have said to too, but the underlying aura of the conversation suggested that topic be avoided.]
[ no, he didn't take it as disinterest. he knows bakugou by now to understand what he is trying to say, and he wouldn't push on it if both sides are leaning towards a clear option: which is— take it one day at a time. was it the best approach? he didn't know. some matters felt rather pressing especially if you're sharing a bed with that person. in the end, denji will be truthful, he won't hold back or make excuses, even if he knows it might cost him losing someone he cares about so deeply. ]
makima is the control devil. she's from my world. aki and i were very close to her but we didn't know 'what' she was. i guess you can say we learned about it the hard way.
[ by now, he found a semi-private cafe; the place offered him some shade and a cool breeze. it helps to ease his thoughts and make them more clear even when he opts to take his time picking the words. ]
we're both uncomfortable. i can honestly say i'm even afraid of her, but i try my best not to show it. devils feed on fear, after all. i don't trust her. she's not as strong in this city, but i still don't trust her.
i guess i wanted you to know ... during the new year, i decided to make a contract with her. we agreed i'd protect her and in exchange, she won't hurt anyone in here. i plan to keep my part of the deal.
i just want you to remember that name and stay away from her. i'm not doubting your strength, it's not that, i'm simply asking you to do it for me. i don't want you to be friendly with someone like that. it would hurt me a lot ...
[he trusts denji to know when he's seriously intending to be angry or rude, and when he's simply being his curt self. but since he cares about his boyfriend (DUH) he occasionally makes a silent check. one day at a time is the best approach for this. it's rude to liken denji to an alley cat or something, but there are elements of that there. each interaction and experience that go beyond their normal current relationship level is handled one at a time. for both their comforts. if denji feels something is really pressing, katsuki wants him to know he can bring it up whenever he feels like it.
that said... denji drops a wall of text on him and the blonde's both surprised and not that surprised to read it. give him a minute or so to process it before responding.]
as long as she doesn't give me a reason to rip her face off, i won't.
[even though it irks him that someone going by the title of "control devil" would be running around messing with people. a lot of what he assumes of denji and aki's background suddenly gets this name thrown in there and probably makes a big mess, but it's enough katsuki's accepting the warning.]
why did you make a contract? LILITH can fuck people up if they start infighting.
[he's... not happy to hear that denji has a contract with someone who scares him.]
i don't know LILITH. i only know makima and what she can do.
in the end, i don't care if she comes for me. the contract is an agreement between us not to get others involved. i don't want people dying because of me ...
[ he didn't want to spend his days in this neon city living in fear and stressing over who she would target next, it felt best to make a deal with the devil instead. even if that involved him being civil with makima, exchanging small talk, following up, and maintaining some form of contact— denji will do it. it started out of fear of aki getting hurt again, then progressed to the half-devil growing fond of his everlight teammates and then, of course, bakugou. he will fucking lose his mind if anyone touches a single hair of his boyfriend.
so there are no regrets about making that deal. none. ]
nothing weird happened so far. i guess it's working ...
[he leaves that simple statement to summarize the paradox denji's put himself in. if makima comes for denji, katsuki will give way more than just a shit about it.
having his boyfriend contracted to someone who'd abuse him, someone who he's now beholden to, someone who scares him, doesn't sit right with him. because if makima demands protection when denji would've given it to the hero, suddenly that makes him choose. and who the hell's to say that someone like makima won't do such a thing deliberately...
besides, katsuki doesn't like the idea of some kinda damn "contract" between people anyways. despite being a responsible person who abides by the laws, he despises slavery in any kind of form. maybe it can be seen as a business transaction, just like signing onto a pro hero's agency, but... the lingering shackling concept of it bothers him.
his own thoughts aside, all katsuki can go on is what denji says now. nothing's happened so far. it's not technically his business to get involved in that either. and he just promised his boyfriend not to do so. unless given reason. he'll abide by that, caveat included.]
[ a simple statement yet it meant a lot to denji; especially when he's still trying to get used to the idea of someone giving a shit about him to this extent. until that day, any verbal expression of affection will always surprise him and make him fluster.
ah, right. he's asking if there is anything else worth adding— still oblivious to how bakugou feels about the entire thing. of course, the hero wouldn't be happy about the exchange, but denji still believes it's a decent deal. makima didn't ask for anything too insane. just protection. he can do that. hmm ... ]
no. that's all you need to know to stay safe. the rest is plenty of unanswered questions that i'll deal with.
[ as of now, this was enough sharing. for the sake of not overwhelming bakugou with the utter haze he goes through whenever makima is around. he indeed fears her, but he also doesn't hate her— and a very fucked up part of him still wishes she would settle in this city and find her happiness. this might have to do with him struggling to separate the old control devil from the new one, but ... yeah, let's not get into that at this moment. ]
on a much lighter note .... the carrot cake in this cafe is really good 🥕
[ hey, might as well get himself a treat to tame how uncomfortable this conversation is making him feel. ]
[he won't get into the ramifications of that today. this is more for denji's comfort right now than for katsuki's. let the half-devil get this off his chest and move forward. they can return to it another day. one thing at a time, right? so long as his boyfriend knows he cares, and won't let him do something stupid without yelling about it, that's good enough for the young hero for now.]
uh-huh. i always stay safe.
[sure he does. just like how he's always calm and rational. katsuki wonders what other questions denji has to ask, whether they're for him or someone else, but lets the matter drop. semi-reluctantly. he already said he didn't want everything thrown on him at once. katsuki's not had interaction with makima and doesn't see himself doing so now. not unless denji's involved in some manner.]
[ the words are not wording, but bakugou is a smart lad that would get the little (friendly) jab here. it would be super nice if the hero would be a bit less reckless when he's out there throwing hands— but, hey. denji will always be the selfish brat who would favor his boyfriend over the succession of a stupid mission.
bakugou gets a picture soon after with the half-devil posing with a very uncreative peace sign, cheeks full of cake, and the scenery behind him will give the impression the place didn't seem like a popular spot. cheap food can be hella tasty sometimes, you know. ]
i'm guessing you're in the base swimming in a pool of your sweat. if so, i would love to see it.
[he knows what denji's getting at and he's returning with a grumpy snark in exchange. there's no way that he'll be staying off the battlefield, and he's not about to hide behind denji either. but the half-devil is one of the few who has the ability (permission) to get katsuki to stand down on word alone. despite his battle style seeming reckless, he almost always goes in with a plan and a very capable ability to avoid damage. almost always. injuries are part of battle.
denji won't get yelled at as much for taking a hit meant for katsuki though. so long as he's fine getting that ripcord pulled as soon as the blonde makes it to him. anyways...
he arches a brow at the picture sent his way. nah, it's not creative, but it's also denji's go-to sign, so it's come tom mean (to katsuki) the other boy's okay and feeling better. it's a good sign. look, an out of the way spot to relax in without people bustling around is a good find.]
it's too hot to go outside and do shit!
[but yeah, he'll send a picture. left (scarred) shoulder, pectoral, top of his left abs, neck, some of his sternum, bicep, a nice square click of sweaty shirtless muscle with some beads of sweat accidentally caught aesthetic.]
[ he is 100% fine to have bakugou pull on that ripcord anytime. perhaps he should declare that hidden kink more publicly, or not. he's certain the other isn't oblivious to it. while denji will continue keeping an eye on the other during the missions, it didn't mean he wants that boy to fucking retire. it's an absolute treat to join dynamight's side in action. it's insanely fun to match such an explosive energy but, yeah, when the situation begs for it— he will have to step in and remind the hero there are times when he should prioritize his own well-being. there is no shame in it; even denji could use a smack to the head when he's pushing his luck.
now, to far more important, pressing, top priority matters: the picture.
denji digs into his cake, still chewing with a growing smirk. okay, it's a picture. it's perfectly normal to be a bit giddy with it; appreciate bakugou has a killer physique and then shake it off. except, as he went for another bite, he could feel the burn in his cheeks and that's when he rolled his eyes with a grunt. oh, for fucks sake ...
IT WASN'T EVEN A PROPER LEWD PICTURE. then, why?! right, just gonna swat that visual away and store it in the media folder. begone— until the weather allows hot skin-to-skin action. or, when he's not in public. ]
you're probably the only guy who could make being this sweaty attractive. fucking hell, katsuki. keep the bedroom door locked.
[he's not going to pull it anytime since while it does heal denji, it also sprouts the chainsaws. don't wanna do that out in public and have gore all over the damn dinner table. or bathroom stall. or wherever they are. nah, he'll keep it to battle-related things and just mess around with it during their more intimate times. unless they really wanna get kinky. chainsaw man is a part of denji after all and bakugo's attracted to denji. no part left out. but during battles, he'll work with his partner like he always has, just even better than before. trading off as they need to, working new team attacks, training together so they can capitalize on each other's power and fighting style. (you bet your ass he's dragged denji to training.) all of that later then.
when he's not sending weird pictures to his boyfriend, something denji's had a bit of a habit requesting.
OF COURSE IT'S NOT A PROPER LEWD PICTURE!! denji asked to see sweat! he's lucky bakugo didn't just take a picture of the damp bed sheets to be a dick to him. is he proud of himself for ribbing on his boyfriend's patience and naughty thoughts? yep! it's fun to tease him. especially since the guy's in a better mood now.
no apologies if it's making the other boy difficult down below.]
water never hurt an attractive guy, right? haa? i always keep it locked!
[ the worst part is- ... it's pure desire, with zero planning. which is the most dangerous combo when the kink itself is hazardous and the one wielding it doesn't have a solid strategy to keep his partner safe. it will be a chaotic fail unless denji actually, you know, thinks about it, do the math, instead of following blind cravings. as tempting as that might be, he wouldn't want to repeat the vegas stunt. and yet, he still had the habit of entertaining random urges when the hero toys with the cord. hell, at times during the mission, when bakugou gives it a tug and gets covered in gore, he would find himself fantasizing about shoving that massive tongue down the other boy's throat until he fucking gags. he might do it one day, maybe not when actual kaijus are around and the risk is too high of an ambush. maybe when the training session is lasting way too long and he'd want to harass his boyfriend into getting kicked out. here's an idea for next time— heh.
wait, why the fuck is he thinking about this now? denji knew this is the beginning of the domino effect, triggered by that damn selfie. which is not surprising since his brain has found solace from the stressful thoughts of makima terrorizing him in the city, happy to center its focus on something else. denji will allow it, closing his eyes and leaning back on his seat— he toys with the last piece of the cake with his fork. ]
good. keep it locked. if your hero buddy agrees to help, you're free to spend the night in my room. but, you gotta come in shirtless too. even if you won't be as sweaty.
[ oh, he thinks he's soooo smooth. denji has a questionable smile on his face- until he realized he's in a fucking cafe and someone might catch him being in a mood. ugh. ]
no, i mean- since we're like ... official and all. we should be sharing a bed more often. just saying. that's the law of the land.
[it's not that bakugou doesn't find denji attractive when he's in chainsaw man mode. even the idea of kissing him with all those sharp teeth doesn't faze him. no, it's more how the hell to do that without getting a chainsaw rammed through his own forehead. like making out with a fucking demon unicorn man. alas, those thoughts have been few and far between, mostly because chainsaw man is on his mind during battles, when sex is decidedly not. and playing with the cord during sex still tends to be done with denji in mind. he makes really nice faces when bakugou messes with his cord. maybe one day he'll dick around the dangle while going down on his boyfriend's dick. see if that leaves the half-devil a writhing mess or more. for all it seems bakugou's a straightlace, he has his kinky side.
if that side's making it harder for denji to sit around in the cafe without closing his legs or scooting his hips further under the table, so fucking be it. he deserves it for asking for the picture. he knew what he was doing.]
huh? what the hell is half-n-half helping with?
[don't bring up another guy when they're having an undercurrent of sexual tension here!]
i'll come in whatever i want. you like taking my shirt off.
[he's calling him out on that one. the other part... leaves him hot in the face, and it's not from the temperature outside. dammit, denji, bringing it up like that.]
[ HE HONESTLY— wasn't aiming to get a mini boner over a selfie today. TRUTHFULLY! he was expecting to see a guy sweating and looking like he had better days, maybe his first ever 'bad' selfie of bakugou, but that backfired on him. it's kinda baffling since it was timid, in contrast to the spicy ones the hero shared in the past. maybe because it's been a while. after all, the shit that happened in vegas can kill a couple's sex drive since one side is feeling horrible guilt and the other is giving him the time he needs to ride it out.
right. let's not think about that. ]
to cool off the room. we talked about it. so, you'll have better rest in my room tonight.
[ to be fair, he was talking about shoto's icy powers, not him per se. huff. yeah, he will not deny that he does enjoy liberating bakugou's body from the chains of fabric, deeming them unnecessary when they're alone, but very necessary when they're not. ]
yeah, we do. but- it should be more. why should we sleep in empty beds on those other days? it's not like i snore or anything.
[considering denji's asked for sexy pictures before, and this one was kind of worded sexy, guess what? he gets a non-sexy-but-actually-sexy picture! then again, if your boyfriend sends a picture that's remotely attractive, it's got a risk of being sexy regardless. this is the guy he's fucking after all. katsuki's never gonna give denji a "bad" selfie. though considering he makes gremlin faces whenever people take pictures of him, that's up for debate... all this class photos have him scowling, frowning, glaring, snarling, shouting, slasher grin. you know. nothing NICE.
denji's got his work cut out for him.
and vegas definitely killed the sex drive for a while. injuries didn't help the emotional problems. so long as denji still spent the night with him, for the most part, katsuki's been fine without boning.]
you're gonna end up with water all over the place!
[have you SEEN how todoroki ices over something, denji?! GLACIER!! ICE CAVE!! ARCTIC BLAST!!
at least katsuki's not constantly walking around shirtless. though he does tank top a lot due to the heat.]
get a king-sized bed and i'll think about it.
[sorry, babe. he does like his own room and his own space. dating doesn't mean living together.
... but he will tack on another day for sleeping over going forward.]
[ even the pictures with bakugou acting like an angry troll are still attractive to denji, so— he can never win with the bad selfie. ugh. ]
at least my room will cool off for a bit. i don't think you understand how much i hate this.
[ the water will probably evaporate from the heatwave and problem solved. well, not really, but denji couldn't imagine spending another night sweating into his mattress and feeling like a pile of goo. it's either he gets trapped inside an ice cave or he rents a place with running air conditioning. this is where he will spend his money with no regrets.
he rolled his eyes at bakugou's excuse. it's not the damn bed, he's just— a non traditional lover, right? the hero didn't like soft gestures, flowers, or those sexy jazz tunes. maybe he should impress him by offering him the head of the next kaiju they fight. denji might have a better chance wooing him like that (and no, the courting doesn't end just because they're official. sucks for you, kacchan). he'll do this next time, and he'll see. ]
a king-sized bed to sleep alone in? no thanks. i'll ask shoto to make an ice sculpture with your shape to cuddle it.
[ it's a joke. a bitter one, but a joke. he will respect his boundaries. ]
i'm off to fight crimes and bust some evildoers. don't die sweating.
[it's not like denji has given katsuki a picture he doesn't like. then again, he's not out there asking for a ton of them. mostly because he'd rather just meet with him than get a picture.]
they said they're getting the electricity fixed in the next few days. besides, once the generator's up and running in the base, we'll be fine.
[water does not evaporate that fast, denji. not with the amount of ice todoroki's going to put down to make the room a walk-in freezer. katsuki can understand why his boyfriend's irritated about the weather. he's not alone. it's fucking ridiculous and the blonde's had to deal with waking up in the night just to get a damn drink so he doesn't wake up a fucking mummy. or raisin. renting a place with ac, however... katsuki has not thought of that.
sorry, denji. katsuki's a real bear when it comes to wooing. he's gotten better at the sexy jazz, even if he thinks it's stupid, but soft gestures and flowers would still get the stink eye. that said, denji doesn't need to offer a kaiju head; katsuki is almost always impressed by his boyfriend. just seeing him fight, the improvements he's made in his life, so much about denji he's come to quietly admire. it's why he's dating him. one of the... many reasons.
that said-]
WHAT?! IF YOU DO, I'LL BITE ITS FUCKING HEAD OFF!!
[don't ask his classmate to make ice models of him for you to spoon! but he does recognize the undercurrent there, so denji's not getting away so easily.]
it really means that much to you to sleep next to me, huh.
[ 'few days' is still way too damn long, but denji bitched about the heat issue for way too much already. it's not like whining would resolve anything. at least he had a few ideas in mind and if shoto's ice quirk isn't as helpful then he will bounce to plan B. all he has to do is keep bakugou updated with his shenanigans and whereabouts. the reaction to the kacchan's ice sculpture made him chuckle a bit as he moved to pay for his little snack. ]
bite the head off. it's fine. so long as its perky chest and curves stay untouched 😏
[ did he just sexualize a piece of fucking ice? yes, he did. no shame. they're just messing with each other. the question that follows, though, is no laughing matter. denji had the choice to spit out the long answer or the short one; for the sake of not spoiling the lighthearted mood, he'll take it easy. ]
the fact you even asked is kinda insulting, hero. of course it is. you're my favorite person. you're my safe space.
[ he could've said 'i like you' or 'you're fun to be around', and while that's all true, it won't justify why he wanted bakugou to be with him during the long, lonely hours— when the thoughts thrive in the silence, and when denji felt the most vulnerable and scared of his future. they might leave this city in any given second like the others, it didn't make sense to waste time. after all, time is a privilege they don't have.
regardless, it is important to remind himself that bakugou's comfort is crucial, too. so, no, he won't push for it. ]
2 times a week is fine, though. i'll abuse the hell out of it.
[whining doesn't solve anything, but it does make people feel better when they can vent, rather than stuffing it all inside and pretending everything's fine. katsuki has no doubt shoto's plan to ice over the room will work out fine. it'll keep the room cool enough denji will probably be bundled up in a fucking blanket. when it melts, however, then the problems will arise. soaking the floors, the desk, the bed, whatever else denji has on the ground... there are other options, including a massive ice sculpture inside a pan or something to catch the water while it cools down the room.]
YOU'RE NOT GONNA FUCKING SPOON AGAINST A SCULPTURE OF ME!!
[what if someone gives denji a 3D figure of him or some damn dakimakura?! is he gonna cuddle that instead? ugh, no one ever said katsuki was immune to petty jealousy. and now that they've upgraded to boyfriends, apparently that jade slice is a lot more prevalent in flaring up at issues like these. maybe it is messing around, but there's an undercurrent of seriousness present that ends with an obvious-yet-important question katsuki wants answered straight to his face.
proverbial face.]
i didn't ask.
[you're my safe space. that says a lot more than denji could've said otherwise. no essay or lengthy explanation. only a quiet truth revealing the kind of importance that lies on their time together. it's not lewd or pride, but rather the same kind of want katsuki remembers denji feels when he fell asleep with pochita in his arms. a comfortable presence that assures him everything will be all right. that he's going to be all right.
and while katsuki knows he won't be able to spend each night with denji, the nights he's here and able to. he has his own comfort to be conscious of, and yet...]
[ he's kinda into it right now. maybe it's the fact he's currently melting under the scorching heat and the thought of an icy, curvy, and gorgeous figure pressed against his body is making him feel all sorts of delights. the fact katsuki seemed somewhat annoyed by it is adorable. is he honestly jealous over an item? a thing?! a kacchan dakimakura does sound hella tempting. will denji get one? ... yes. will he be happy about it being sold to the public and other outsiders? fuck no. the thought of it in someone else's sweaty hands will drive him mad. so, for both their sake, let's hope this city will not introduce something as scandalous.
at times, he does appreciate bakugou's emotional intelligence— it's reserved, sometimes hard to pinpoint but not overwhelming, which is essential when dealing with someone like denji. in a sense, he can see the half-devil's flaws but he doesn't shame him for it, and in return bakugou understood the significance behind every expression when the moment begs for it. a simple word is enough to extend genuine feelings without dragging it into a long speech, and while denji likes to smother his boyfriend with romantic cliches to show him that he cares, his authentic language of love is feeling safe around someone. blind trust. no fear. utterly vulnerable. and that's who bakugou is to him: a safe space. it's comforting to know a simple few words are enough to illustrate his deep adoration, and not be brushed off. it's good to be heard ...
he smiled at the last text. maaaan, can he admit he was hoping he could warm up bakugou's heart enough to win some extra nights into his pocket? while that's true, it doesn't make his confession any less genuine. he gives himself a high-five, not that the hero could see. ]
it will be spotless and up to your standards. i promise. i'll make it cozy for you.
[ he doubts bakugou will join his ice cave tonight, which might give him time to do some quick shopping after his shift. extra bedding, better pillows ... hmm, how to make his room more inviting? ]
i'll grab dinner on the way back. what do you feel like eating tonight?
![[personal profile]](https://www.dreamwidth.org/img/silk/identity/user.png){kind=small}
blastedass
no subject
Date: 7/12/24 20:46 (UTC)[ it's a lot. in a way, he understands aki's feelings, and they both acknowledge they are struggling to cope with their cruel reality— they are trying their best to be better, to feel better; following the textbook. talk about it, cry your heart out, forgive, and then try to move on. they fucking did all of that. then why? why does it still feel so off?
he's quiet for a bit; expression going somber behind the flush from the mad heat, hair sticking to his sweat-drenched skin, yet he found himself in an odd trance that made him forget of physical discomfort. more silence, he then started walking down the narrow street again, idly seeking a nearby store or restaurant with a functioning cooling unit to recover. ]
do you agree?
that sometimes the person shouldn't know? just to keep them happy?
would you like that?
no subject
Date: 7/12/24 21:08 (UTC)it'll always feel off. just the same as a scar will always be present on the skin. wounds like that heal, but scars only fade with time, never disappearing. it's easy to forget that. katsuki reaches for a nearby water bottle.]
that's not a simple answer. lying to someone to keep them happy is bullshit.
but with this, it's between you and him.
if he asked you what happened after he died, it's up to you to tell him or not, but both of you need to be ready for whatever happens next.
no subject
Date: 7/12/24 22:23 (UTC)i'm asking you.
would you rather not know?
[ an honest question. denji could feel himself getting a bit nervous as he pushed through the crowd; he didn't predict a silly text of him whining over the heatwave to take such a turn and he wasn't prepared for any of this. his issue with aki is something he will have to handle since he chose to break the news to him about how it all ends between them— denji will have to deal with the consequences, there is no way out of it. it's too late.
however, he did confess to bakugou that they 'need to talk' on their last trip, and while he's not trying to seek a cheap escape— it wouldn't hurt to hear his partner's thoughts. ]
do you want to know everything about me?
or, what we have here is all that matters?
am i lying to you by not saying anything?
no subject
Date: 7/13/24 22:49 (UTC)huh? i learn more about you all the time!
i don't want you to dump your life story on me in one go.
[there's nothing in denji's past that is going to break them up or turn katsuki off from him. there are things he might not agree with, things he won't like that happened, but none of that affects them here. nor does he want or need denji to extol him with everything in his life; things will come at their own pace and when they do, he'll ask and learn about them. sometimes prompted by events, sometimes his own curiosity.
so long as denji doesn't straight up lie to him there, it's a non-issue.]
when have you ever lied to me?
[technically keeping silent isn't lying, but... now katsuki's curious about what's going on.]
oy, if you want to tell me something, say it.
no subject
Date: 7/14/24 16:56 (UTC)he's not lying, yet it does feel a bit cowardly to seek refuge behind the golden opportunity here. the idea of confessing to murdering aki terrifies him; bakugou has proven himself to tolerate a lot from denji, yet he's certain there is a limit. there are matters worthy of sharing, concerns that would affect them here and right now. perhaps denji should focus on those. as a start. the rest is fated to rear its ugly head.
let him enjoy the other's company a little longer. ]
i never lied to you.
[ if bakugou asked, he would answer. truthfully. always will. ]
makima.
you know that name?
no subject
Date: 7/14/24 20:52 (UTC)these things will come out in small moments, when conversation topic or life events and experiences prompt the comment or question regarding them. katsuki knows he'll tell denji more about himself in the future. the same way every relationship ends up learning more about the other side over time. without knowing what denji wants to tell him, he's left at the mercy of what the other boy holds back, as well as how the devil hunter opts to spin things.
katsuki's prepared to do battle with denji's doubts and guilt too.]
i know.
you mentioned it once. that's it.
[aki might have said to too, but the underlying aura of the conversation suggested that topic be avoided.]
no subject
Date: 7/15/24 18:23 (UTC)makima is the control devil.
she's from my world. aki and i were very close to her but we didn't know 'what' she was. i guess you can say we learned about it the hard way.
[ by now, he found a semi-private cafe; the place offered him some shade and a cool breeze. it helps to ease his thoughts and make them more clear even when he opts to take his time picking the words. ]
we're both uncomfortable. i can honestly say i'm even afraid of her, but i try my best not to show it. devils feed on fear, after all. i don't trust her. she's not as strong in this city, but i still don't trust her.
i guess i wanted you to know ... during the new year, i decided to make a contract with her. we agreed i'd protect her and in exchange, she won't hurt anyone in here. i plan to keep my part of the deal.
i just want you to remember that name and stay away from her. i'm not doubting your strength, it's not that, i'm simply asking you to do it for me. i don't want you to be friendly with someone like that. it would hurt me a lot ...
no subject
Date: 7/15/24 20:35 (UTC)that said... denji drops a wall of text on him and the blonde's both surprised and not that surprised to read it. give him a minute or so to process it before responding.]
as long as she doesn't give me a reason to rip her face off, i won't.
[even though it irks him that someone going by the title of "control devil" would be running around messing with people. a lot of what he assumes of denji and aki's background suddenly gets this name thrown in there and probably makes a big mess, but it's enough katsuki's accepting the warning.]
why did you make a contract? LILITH can fuck people up if they start infighting.
[he's... not happy to hear that denji has a contract with someone who scares him.]
no subject
Date: 7/16/24 16:16 (UTC)i only know makima and what she can do.
in the end, i don't care if she comes for me. the contract is an agreement between us not to get others involved. i don't want people dying because of me ...
[ he didn't want to spend his days in this neon city living in fear and stressing over who she would target next, it felt best to make a deal with the devil instead. even if that involved him being civil with makima, exchanging small talk, following up, and maintaining some form of contact— denji will do it. it started out of fear of aki getting hurt again, then progressed to the half-devil growing fond of his everlight teammates and then, of course, bakugou. he will fucking lose his mind if anyone touches a single hair of his boyfriend.
so there are no regrets about making that deal. none. ]
nothing weird happened so far.
i guess it's working ...
no subject
Date: 7/16/24 23:52 (UTC)[he leaves that simple statement to summarize the paradox denji's put himself in. if makima comes for denji, katsuki will give way more than just a shit about it.
having his boyfriend contracted to someone who'd abuse him, someone who he's now beholden to, someone who scares him, doesn't sit right with him. because if makima demands protection when denji would've given it to the hero, suddenly that makes him choose. and who the hell's to say that someone like makima won't do such a thing deliberately...
besides, katsuki doesn't like the idea of some kinda damn "contract" between people anyways. despite being a responsible person who abides by the laws, he despises slavery in any kind of form. maybe it can be seen as a business transaction, just like signing onto a pro hero's agency, but... the lingering shackling concept of it bothers him.
his own thoughts aside, all katsuki can go on is what denji says now. nothing's happened so far. it's not technically his business to get involved in that either. and he just promised his boyfriend not to do so. unless given reason. he'll abide by that, caveat included.]
anything else i should know about her?
no subject
Date: 7/17/24 16:31 (UTC)ah, right. he's asking if there is anything else worth adding— still oblivious to how bakugou feels about the entire thing. of course, the hero wouldn't be happy about the exchange, but denji still believes it's a decent deal. makima didn't ask for anything too insane. just protection. he can do that. hmm ... ]
no.
that's all you need to know to stay safe. the rest is plenty of unanswered questions that i'll deal with.
[ as of now, this was enough sharing. for the sake of not overwhelming bakugou with the utter haze he goes through whenever makima is around. he indeed fears her, but he also doesn't hate her— and a very fucked up part of him still wishes she would settle in this city and find her happiness. this might have to do with him struggling to separate the old control devil from the new one, but ... yeah, let's not get into that at this moment. ]
on a much lighter note ....
the carrot cake in this cafe is really good 🥕
[ hey, might as well get himself a treat to tame how uncomfortable this conversation is making him feel. ]
no subject
Date: 7/17/24 22:00 (UTC)uh-huh. i always stay safe.
[sure he does. just like how he's always calm and rational. katsuki wonders what other questions denji has to ask, whether they're for him or someone else, but lets the matter drop. semi-reluctantly. he already said he didn't want everything thrown on him at once. katsuki's not had interaction with makima and doesn't see himself doing so now. not unless denji's involved in some manner.]
you're in a cafe?
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 04:20 (UTC)you could stay a bit more 'safer'.
[ the words are not wording, but bakugou is a smart lad that would get the little (friendly) jab here. it would be super nice if the hero would be a bit less reckless when he's out there throwing hands— but, hey. denji will always be the selfish brat who would favor his boyfriend over the succession of a stupid mission.
bakugou gets a picture soon after with the half-devil posing with a very uncreative peace sign, cheeks full of cake, and the scenery behind him will give the impression the place didn't seem like a popular spot. cheap food can be hella tasty sometimes, you know. ]
i'm guessing you're in the base swimming in a pool of your sweat.
if so, i would love to see it.
[ for reasons. ]
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 05:15 (UTC)[he knows what denji's getting at and he's returning with a grumpy snark in exchange. there's no way that he'll be staying off the battlefield, and he's not about to hide behind denji either. but the half-devil is one of the few who has the ability (permission) to get katsuki to stand down on word alone. despite his battle style seeming reckless, he almost always goes in with a plan and a very capable ability to avoid damage. almost always. injuries are part of battle.
denji won't get yelled at as much for taking a hit meant for katsuki though. so long as he's fine getting that ripcord pulled as soon as the blonde makes it to him. anyways...
he arches a brow at the picture sent his way. nah, it's not creative, but it's also denji's go-to sign, so it's come tom mean (to katsuki) the other boy's okay and feeling better. it's a good sign. look, an out of the way spot to relax in without people bustling around is a good find.]
it's too hot to go outside and do shit!
[but yeah, he'll send a picture. left (scarred) shoulder, pectoral, top of his left abs, neck, some of his sternum, bicep, a nice square click of sweaty shirtless muscle with some beads of sweat accidentally caught aesthetic.]
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 16:47 (UTC)now, to far more important, pressing, top priority matters: the picture.
denji digs into his cake, still chewing with a growing smirk. okay, it's a picture. it's perfectly normal to be a bit giddy with it; appreciate bakugou has a killer physique and then shake it off. except, as he went for another bite, he could feel the burn in his cheeks and that's when he rolled his eyes with a grunt. oh, for fucks sake ...
IT WASN'T EVEN A PROPER LEWD PICTURE. then, why?! right, just gonna swat that visual away and store it in the media folder. begone— until the weather allows hot skin-to-skin action. or, when he's not in public. ]
you're probably the only guy who could make being this sweaty attractive.
fucking hell, katsuki. keep the bedroom door locked.
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 17:30 (UTC)when he's not sending weird pictures to his boyfriend, something denji's had a bit of a habit requesting.
OF COURSE IT'S NOT A PROPER LEWD PICTURE!! denji asked to see sweat! he's lucky bakugo didn't just take a picture of the damp bed sheets to be a dick to him. is he proud of himself for ribbing on his boyfriend's patience and naughty thoughts? yep! it's fun to tease him. especially since the guy's in a better mood now.
no apologies if it's making the other boy difficult down below.]
water never hurt an attractive guy, right?
haa? i always keep it locked!
[he doesn't want people barging into his room!]
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 18:52 (UTC)wait, why the fuck is he thinking about this now? denji knew this is the beginning of the domino effect, triggered by that damn selfie. which is not surprising since his brain has found solace from the stressful thoughts of makima terrorizing him in the city, happy to center its focus on something else. denji will allow it, closing his eyes and leaning back on his seat— he toys with the last piece of the cake with his fork. ]
good. keep it locked.
if your hero buddy agrees to help, you're free to spend the night in my room.
but, you gotta come in shirtless too. even if you won't be as sweaty.
[ oh, he thinks he's soooo smooth. denji has a questionable smile on his face- until he realized he's in a fucking cafe and someone might catch him being in a mood. ugh. ]
no, i mean-
since we're like ... official and all. we should be sharing a bed more often.
just saying. that's the law of the land.
no subject
Date: 7/18/24 19:50 (UTC)if that side's making it harder for denji to sit around in the cafe without closing his legs or scooting his hips further under the table, so fucking be it. he deserves it for asking for the picture. he knew what he was doing.]
huh? what the hell is half-n-half helping with?
[don't bring up another guy when they're having an undercurrent of sexual tension here!]
i'll come in whatever i want. you like taking my shirt off.
[he's calling him out on that one. the other part... leaves him hot in the face, and it's not from the temperature outside. dammit, denji, bringing it up like that.]
we sleepover at least twice a week.
no subject
Date: 7/19/24 17:11 (UTC)right. let's not think about that. ]
to cool off the room. we talked about it.
so, you'll have better rest in my room tonight.
[ to be fair, he was talking about shoto's icy powers, not him per se. huff. yeah, he will not deny that he does enjoy liberating bakugou's body from the chains of fabric, deeming them unnecessary when they're alone, but very necessary when they're not. ]
yeah, we do.
but-
it should be more. why should we sleep in empty beds on those other days? it's not like i snore or anything.
[ just very, very clingy. ]
no subject
Date: 7/19/24 20:11 (UTC)denji's got his work cut out for him.
and vegas definitely killed the sex drive for a while. injuries didn't help the emotional problems. so long as denji still spent the night with him, for the most part, katsuki's been fine without boning.]
you're gonna end up with water all over the place!
[have you SEEN how todoroki ices over something, denji?! GLACIER!! ICE CAVE!! ARCTIC BLAST!!
at least katsuki's not constantly walking around shirtless. though he does tank top a lot due to the heat.]
get a king-sized bed and i'll think about it.
[sorry, babe. he does like his own room and his own space. dating doesn't mean living together.
... but he will tack on another day for sleeping over going forward.]
no subject
Date: 7/19/24 21:05 (UTC)at least my room will cool off for a bit.
i don't think you understand how much i hate this.
[ the water will probably evaporate from the heatwave and problem solved. well, not really, but denji couldn't imagine spending another night sweating into his mattress and feeling like a pile of goo. it's either he gets trapped inside an ice cave or he rents a place with running air conditioning. this is where he will spend his money with no regrets.
he rolled his eyes at bakugou's excuse. it's not the damn bed, he's just— a non traditional lover, right? the hero didn't like soft gestures, flowers, or those sexy jazz tunes. maybe he should impress him by offering him the head of the next kaiju they fight. denji might have a better chance wooing him like that (and no, the courting doesn't end just because they're official. sucks for you, kacchan). he'll do this next time, and he'll see. ]
a king-sized bed to sleep alone in?
no thanks.
i'll ask shoto to make an ice sculpture with your shape to cuddle it.
[ it's a joke. a bitter one, but a joke. he will respect his boundaries. ]
i'm off to fight crimes and bust some evildoers.
don't die sweating.
no subject
Date: 7/19/24 21:57 (UTC)they said they're getting the electricity fixed in the next few days.
besides, once the generator's up and running in the base, we'll be fine.
[water does not evaporate that fast, denji. not with the amount of ice todoroki's going to put down to make the room a walk-in freezer. katsuki can understand why his boyfriend's irritated about the weather. he's not alone. it's fucking ridiculous and the blonde's had to deal with waking up in the night just to get a damn drink so he doesn't wake up a fucking mummy. or raisin. renting a place with ac, however... katsuki has not thought of that.
sorry, denji. katsuki's a real bear when it comes to wooing. he's gotten better at the sexy jazz, even if he thinks it's stupid, but soft gestures and flowers would still get the stink eye. that said, denji doesn't need to offer a kaiju head; katsuki is almost always impressed by his boyfriend. just seeing him fight, the improvements he's made in his life, so much about denji he's come to quietly admire. it's why he's dating him. one of the... many reasons.
that said-]
WHAT?! IF YOU DO, I'LL BITE ITS FUCKING HEAD OFF!!
[don't ask his classmate to make ice models of him for you to spoon! but he does recognize the undercurrent there, so denji's not getting away so easily.]
it really means that much to you to sleep next to me, huh.
[this is actually an honest comment/question.]
no subject
Date: 7/20/24 16:27 (UTC)bite the head off. it's fine.
so long as its perky chest and curves stay untouched 😏
[ did he just sexualize a piece of fucking ice? yes, he did. no shame. they're just messing with each other. the question that follows, though, is no laughing matter. denji had the choice to spit out the long answer or the short one; for the sake of not spoiling the lighthearted mood, he'll take it easy. ]
the fact you even asked is kinda insulting, hero.
of course it is. you're my favorite person. you're my safe space.
[ he could've said 'i like you' or 'you're fun to be around', and while that's all true, it won't justify why he wanted bakugou to be with him during the long, lonely hours— when the thoughts thrive in the silence, and when denji felt the most vulnerable and scared of his future. they might leave this city in any given second like the others, it didn't make sense to waste time. after all, time is a privilege they don't have.
regardless, it is important to remind himself that bakugou's comfort is crucial, too. so, no, he won't push for it. ]
2 times a week is fine, though.
i'll abuse the hell out of it.
no subject
Date: 7/29/24 03:55 (UTC)YOU'RE NOT GONNA FUCKING SPOON AGAINST A SCULPTURE OF ME!!
[what if someone gives denji a 3D figure of him or some damn dakimakura?! is he gonna cuddle that instead? ugh, no one ever said katsuki was immune to petty jealousy. and now that they've upgraded to boyfriends, apparently that jade slice is a lot more prevalent in flaring up at issues like these. maybe it is messing around, but there's an undercurrent of seriousness present that ends with an obvious-yet-important question katsuki wants answered straight to his face.
proverbial face.]
i didn't ask.
[you're my safe space. that says a lot more than denji could've said otherwise. no essay or lengthy explanation. only a quiet truth revealing the kind of importance that lies on their time together. it's not lewd or pride, but rather the same kind of want katsuki remembers denji feels when he fell asleep with pochita in his arms. a comfortable presence that assures him everything will be all right. that he's going to be all right.
and while katsuki knows he won't be able to spend each night with denji, the nights he's here and able to. he has his own comfort to be conscious of, and yet...]
get used to cleaning your bed every night, denji.
[you asked for this.]
no subject
Date: 7/29/24 18:15 (UTC)but ...
[ he's kinda into it right now. maybe it's the fact he's currently melting under the scorching heat and the thought of an icy, curvy, and gorgeous figure pressed against his body is making him feel all sorts of delights. the fact katsuki seemed somewhat annoyed by it is adorable. is he honestly jealous over an item? a thing?! a kacchan dakimakura does sound hella tempting. will denji get one? ... yes. will he be happy about it being sold to the public and other outsiders? fuck no. the thought of it in someone else's sweaty hands will drive him mad. so, for both their sake, let's hope this city will not introduce something as scandalous.
at times, he does appreciate bakugou's emotional intelligence— it's reserved, sometimes hard to pinpoint but not overwhelming, which is essential when dealing with someone like denji. in a sense, he can see the half-devil's flaws but he doesn't shame him for it, and in return bakugou understood the significance behind every expression when the moment begs for it. a simple word is enough to extend genuine feelings without dragging it into a long speech, and while denji likes to smother his boyfriend with romantic cliches to show him that he cares, his authentic language of love is feeling safe around someone. blind trust. no fear. utterly vulnerable. and that's who bakugou is to him: a safe space. it's comforting to know a simple few words are enough to illustrate his deep adoration, and not be brushed off. it's good to be heard ...
he smiled at the last text. maaaan, can he admit he was hoping he could warm up bakugou's heart enough to win some extra nights into his pocket? while that's true, it doesn't make his confession any less genuine. he gives himself a high-five, not that the hero could see. ]
it will be spotless and up to your standards. i promise.
i'll make it cozy for you.
[ he doubts bakugou will join his ice cave tonight, which might give him time to do some quick shopping after his shift. extra bedding, better pillows ... hmm, how to make his room more inviting? ]
i'll grab dinner on the way back.
what do you feel like eating tonight?
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