{Rank King}

Ready? 3, 2, 1, GO.

"Sir, is it really necessary to have all of us go up against him?"

Uraraka is naming what a lot of the class is thinking as the automated speaker booms to start another round.
Even if Hagakure has gotten really strong, the idea of facing Bakugo, even with one bum hand, is terrifying.

He'd gotten the okay from Recovery Girl to fight, but Aizawa had decided to prove a point by asking Ground Zero not to use his quirk with his right. So far the matches against him have lasted less than 5 minutes. Kirishima almost made it past - he was the only one who'd gotten close, and the only person Bakugo had to use the capture tape on so far. They were in Ground Beta - The rules were that Bakugo had to pin them or capture them, while the others had to escape through the gate or capture him. Bakugo had to start by standing at the exit, and his challenger by the entrance, a few hundred metres apart.

"I'm not doing this to torture you. Now observe."

They watch the screen, unable to pinpoint where Hagakure is. Bakugo doesn't charge as he normally would to his opponent. Instead, he closes his eyes.

"I don't know, maybe Toru might actually make it past?" Ashido comments. She'd managed to get acid onto his gauntlet - it was pretty impressive all things considered, but he still got her down so easily. She needs someone to win. "She's not wearing anything."

"Bakugo is too good," Sero argues, shaking his head. "He'll get her for sure."

"Come on, Hanta! Have some f- "

Suddenly there's an explosion. Bakugo is flying through the air with his one hand, the tape in the other whipping out like a lasso. He's managed to hear her footsteps as she has accidentally kicked a tiny pebble - she's down on the ground, tape around her ankle pulled taut so she tripped. 30 seconds flat.

"Woah."

"Kat's way too powerful," Kirishima is in awe, smiling super big next to Deku, who is also continuously always so impressed by his combat skills.

"Indeed. I'm making you all face the top of the class because I want to remind you that there are villains just as strong as he is. And look how well he's doing with only one hand...In the following weeks, I will be putting each of you in the same position as Bakugo. We're all a bit rusty and with a handicap, it really makes a person reconsider how to fight. It's useful to see how more offensive or defensive heroes will approach different people without the aid of a mentor or a colleague in a situation like this."

"Yes, sir."

"Kirishima is the only person yet to have even a remote chance at getting him down. But I think another one or two people might fare the same or better. Midoriya, you're up."

"Oooh, battle of the boyfriends," Kaminari quips quietly to a few classmates, nudging Sero. "He's so whipped though, maybe Kacchan will let Mido win. Or maybe Midoriya will go easy on him because of his poor wristy."

Deku rolls his eyes as a few people stifle their laughter. Jiro smacks Kaminari on the arm.

"I'm not going easy on him just because we're dating. And I'd like to think he respects me enough to try his 100% effort," Deku bites back, re-tying his cleats before breezing past everyone.

"You're such an ass, sometimes," Deku hears Kirishima scolding Kaminari as he walks to the entrance of the zone.

"I'M SORRY, MIDO! GOOD LUCK!"

But Deku barely hears him as he calculates what he should do. He might actually have a chance in pinning Bakugo down today, but it seems foolish when his speed was close to unmatched now. One for All at 80% power was incredible, but Deku can't hold it for too too long in battle yet. He was so fast if he used it, that it would make sense just to flee when his opponent has a disadvantage.

He's gotten to the entrance now - he can see Bakugo at the end. They wave to each other.

"You better not go easy on me, nerd!" Bakugo yells, smirking, readying his slightly damaged gauntlet into his fighting stance.

"Not on your life!"

3, 2, 1 - GO!

Deku guessed correctly that Bakugo would come at him immediately. Deku decides not to run full stop to him but slowly edges himself closer so he can monitor Bakugo's movements.

He knows that Bakugo probably thinks he's definitely aiming for his right since he can't use it and it would be smart - but Deku has a better idea. Because he's not moving, he is sure Bakugo will be puzzled by that. And it means he'll be more impatient to try and have the advantage.

When Bakugo is just overtop of him, hovering, Deku feints, and powers up to jump, making it look like he'll be going for his right with his leg. As soon as Deku can hear the click of the gauntlet, he changes his trajectory in a split second, and punches his left hand hard with his fist instead - 10%. The explosion that is created from the blast causes Bakugo to fall down, as his arm is raised up to the sky, pushing him down onto the concrete.

"Holy crap."

The entire class, minus Aizawa, are gaping.

Running through the gate, like a bullet through the air as he increased his power to 80% - he's made it before Bakugo even has enough time to get back on his feet.
As the exit pings, Deku stops and pants, bent over to catch his breath. He'd never gone quite that fast in his life; he usually only used Full Cowling at that percentage for combat.

Turning to look at his boyfriend, Bakugo is still smirking, wiping the sweat off his forehead as he brushes the dirt off of his knees, walking over.
"We should try that again when I can use both hands."

Grinning now, Deku jogs closer and gives him a quick hug. "Honestly, I had no idea if that was going to work. I'm surprised."

"I'm not. Your battle sense is better than anyone in this class. Almost as good as mine."

Deku's surprised for more than one reason. He thought Bakugo might be embarrassed or angry if he was beaten, but he's completely fine.

Bakugo probably wouldn't ever mention this to Deku, but the fact he can beat him in this circumstance turns him on. If he's going to date someone, they better not be a soft weakling. And the kid has come a mighty long way since the start. (He's also certain he would've won had he had both hands going.)

Honestly, UA's #1 is just glad he can finally fight again. He'd forgotten why he held this position, and being able to beat 12 people in a row is a pretty great reminder. All of the break had him only able to be lost in his self-loathing, drowning. The beginning of the week had started off so poorly he felt like he couldn't deal with it anymore; he's happy he was wrong. His favourite thing in life is this, showing off and winning.

"Bakugo….isn't mad? He's smiling!" Cocking his head, Kaminari, among others, is shook.

"Even if it is losing to your boyfriend, or someone you care about, Bakugo has gotten a lot better at not being a sore loser," Asui says, a finger to her chin. "I've noticed that since he started working with Edgeshot. Remember when Tokoyami beat him in April for our drills?"

"Indeed," Tokoyami agrees, folding his arms. "He challenged me to a fight after, but it sounded more congratulatory than angry."

"Yes. Trust me when I say all of you have improved a lot in lots of ways," Aizawa confirms. "In this type of instance, 1 vs 1, Midoriya especially has. Being with Endeavour for a while will probably do that for a person: it shows here. I also want to showcase your improvements with this exercise."

"Deku's always been amazing," Uraraka comments. "He's so good!"

"If Hawks can get his self esteem to match his skill level," Aizawa continues. "After that…"

"He'll be unstoppable!" Kirishima yells, fist pumping.

"Perhaps. Speaking of Endeavour...Todoroki - you're up. If you can beat Bakugo too, then maybe i'll give the rest of the class a break. It's almost time up, wouldn't want to keep you all here."

Stiffening, Todoroki nods. Despite his peers cheering him on, he finds himself stewing in annoyance as he walks to the gate.

Making his way back to the screens, Deku gets a huge applause when he returns. After a clap on the back from Iida, Deku turns his attention to the match, his excitement about winning nosediving as he sees who Bakugo's next opponent is.

Daring to look at Yaoyorozu, she's got her nails digging into her palm, and otherwise is trying super hard to stay neutral.

3, 2, 1 - GO!

Every time Bakugo has to go against Todoroki, he makes the smart move of bombarding him with ice. Bakugo thought this would happen, so he tried to make sure his gauntlet would be mostly full when the match started so he could have a blast into the air or to shatter the walls. Unfortunately, without the use of his other hand, it's near impossible to escape the way he wants completely because his speed is affected.

Throughout the first minute of the fight, Bakugo has been able to dodge. Still, his attempt to get as high up as possible is not very effective with only one hand as a balancer.

A few metres raised into the air, Todoroki has managed to get Bakugo trapped in the ice to waist level. However, his hand is still free as Bakugo made sure to keep it high and out of reach. Todoroki is skating closer and closer to the gate on his tidal wave, and Bakugo blasts as much as he can to make a hole in his prison. He succeeds in getting out of the ice - but before he can even attempt to fight back, Todoroki has used both of his powers at the same time to blast Bakugo onto the ground. Fiery Ice Cannon - a special move that was difficult for him to use. Unlike his Flash Freeze Heatwave, it is much more precisely aimed, both of his hands funneling flame and cold.
For a class training session? It's a bit unnecessary.

"Man, what a cheap shot," Kirishima sighs. "He would've beaten him out of the gate for sure. Or else, he would've definitely had time to tape him up. Not very manly."

Struggling to sit up on the pavement, it takes all the strength in Bakugo's body not to scream at Todoroki - who has run past the finish.
It's not because he lost. He figured he might; Todoroki was one of the only people who would be able to get the jump on him with sheer force. But now his costume is singed and he has a bit of burn on one shoulder and arm - his other shoulder covered in water.

Todoroki doesn't bother staying back to see if Bakugo is alright and returns to the rest of the class. Nobody congratulates him and it's completely awkward until Bakugo returns.

"Are you okay?" Deku whispers to him as he notices his arm turning a darker red.
It's hard, in his opinion, to tell if Todoroki was out of line, because he knows that Bakugo would be grappling with the thought that he used the move as a precaution. If he really did think that Bakugo could come back from it, then Bakugo would want him to hit him hard. All the man ever wants is for someone to try their hardest to defeat him. But how much of using the move was out of spite, and how much is it Todoroki taking this seriously?

"Fine."

"Alright. Well I think that's probably enough for today. Bakugo, any commentary?" Aizawa clicks off the tv's and turns his attention to Bakugo. "Each time we have this exercise, I want you to pay enough attention to give feedback to your classmates."

Crossing his arms, Bakugo thinks for a moment before speaking, all eyes on him.

"Yaoyorozu," he calls out, deciding to critique by going counter clockwise around the room. She nods her head in acknowledgment. "Why did you create a net-shooting gun instead of something more dangerous?"

"I didn't want to injure you, or create too much damage to the area. I genuinely thought with your injured right that it might be enough to get you if I tried to evade you behind the buildings, surprise attack."

"If you had created a weapon, I would not have been able to fight back if you were able to get close enough. You probably would've won. Next time, if you're going to go that route, you should create a whip - a net isn't precise enough for that tactic if someone's reflexes are good enough to dodge. Ashido."

"Yeah?"
It was weird having him be so assertive right now when a few days ago he was clearly so soft for Deku, getting all angry over everything she asked. It was kind of cute.

"It was a smart tactic to aim for my gauntlet. But you shouldn't be afraid, in a real battle, to go for someone's face if they're weakened. That would've definitely got me down; especially if you were even able to touch me at all. Good effort."

"Uh, thanks Bakugo…"

He outlines the other battles, being incredibly non-offensive. Everyone is a bit uneasy by this change, but thankful for some actual criticism. He completely skips Todoroki, who is standing next to Kirishima; Now it's Red Riot's turn.

"Lay it on me, tough guy," Kirishima quips, making Bakugo roll his eyes as everyone chuckles.

"You've gotten really strong. I didn't hurt you at all even if I got the tape around you. And normally you would've tried to fight me, but it was smarter to try and evade because you know I have the edge in terms of speed. If you had gotten another clean hit in on me, I think you would've won if you had enough time to run away. You're really good."

"I was impressive, huh?" He's grinning, folding his arms.

"Very. Ass."

Nudging him playfully, Bakugo has his smirk back as Kirishima grabs his hand to do their stupid secret shake.

"Wow Kacchan, flirting so blatantly in front of your own boyfriend?" Kaminari snickers. "Tsk, tsk."

"Watch it!"
Bakugo is about to wind up for a punch towards the kids mouthiness today (and always), but Deku grabs his arm and holds him back, laughing really hard.

"And what about Todoroki's performance?"

This gets everyone to shut up. They all go a bit rigid, seeing that Aizawa looks much less than impressed, his tone still even.

"Solid."

Aizawa follows up with: "Elaborate." Seeing a few of his classmates eyes go wide as Bakugo emits a 'tch', he is clearly not thrilled about being asked.

"How much?"

"How much do you think would be useful for your fellow peers to know? This is meant to be a learning experience." If eyes could talk, Aizawa's would be saying 'Have some damn respect.'

Blinking a few times, Bakugo decides to keep his retort to himself. He was feeling pretty damn good right now.
"It's smart when you have the upper hand to ensure complete victory or escape by attacking again. So hitting me while I'm already struggling, in a real fight, would mean he's definitely going to succeed. At the very least, in weakening me. If there were other villains around, had you gone fuller force, i'd be down for the punch. But," Bakugo continues, unable to not be a little bit petty, "If you wanted to win faster, you could've just used your Fiery Ice Cannon at the start - comparatively your dodging skills are equal to mine, and with a handicap like I had, you would've been able to skate past like Deku did by using a quick distraction, even if he's faster."

Todoroki sighs, folding his arms and looking away, no response.

"Good. Let's go back to the class room. Before we end the day, I have another announcement. Go change."

"Yes sir."

Deku hasn't seen Bakugo in such a positive mood in a while. When they were alone he was usually happy, of course, but in general it was easy to recognize now, with knowing him, how much was simmering to the surface at any given time.

Still, he beat almost the entire class in less than two hours. The mere fact he didn't nitpick Todoroki or call him names was something he realizes now that he truly had been doing for months. He was just still always keeping on a front.

The boys are almost all back in their classroom waiting for the girls, and Aizawa isn't here yet.

So Deku, in his seat behind Bakugo, leans forwards and says as quietly as he can; "Good job, today. That was awesome."

Spinning around, Bakugo pulls a knee up in his chair as he faces his boyfriend. He's smiling. One eye is still bruised yellow, still not able to open fully - and Deku is fanboying over his skill to the maximum right now.

"Next time, I'll kick your ass."

"I'm counting on it. But, I don't know, maybe I'll beat you again."

"Oh yeah? Is that a promise?" Bakugo asks, sticking out his tongue, his eyes flashing with excitement.

"No, it's a threat." Deku grazes Bakugo's forearm with his hand, scratching it a few times before letting go, trying not to be too obvious, desperately wanting to kiss him. "So you better get ready."

"Is that so?"

"I LOVE YOU GUYS!"
Scared out of their skins, they dart their looks at Kirishima, who is so amped after getting such a public acknowledgement from Bakugo that he's been unable to look away from the pair. He gives them a thumbs up and a wink.

"Bro, you need to relax." Sero is shaking his head as a few of the other boys giggle at the enthusiasm. "But he's right, that was damn impressive."

"Stop stalking us, Shitty Hair," Bakugo bites back, but his expression doesn't waver.

"NEVER!"

A few minutes of banter back and forth, everyone has returned, Aizawa coming back with a paper in his hands.

They've all discussed the possibilities of what he's going to say to them. The consensus is it's probably a ranking, but they're all still concerned with possible restrictions the school might want to impose after the attack. The timing would be the most optimal after a first week back.

"Ahem." Clearing his throat, everyone settles as best they can. "Now, I'm sure you've guessed that we wanted to do a ranking again at some point. And that maybe that's what my announcement was; if so, you'd be exactly right."

When Aizawa has a smile, you know it's serious business.

"We don't do these rankings to make you feel horrible about yourselves. You're all in an elite program with different merits to your name, be it academic or not. The Hero Billboard Charts are important to many of the young people making a name for themselves - I seem to be one of the only major exceptions to that rule. But I know that more than a handful of you wish to be number one, yes?"

"Yes, sir!" Kirishima yells, clearing his throat, turning a bit red that nobody else joined it.

"I do take issue with ranking systems in general - you all know what happened with Shinso. The entrance exam is unfair in a lot of ways, so are many of our tests. But if there is no baseline, we'd never get anything done. So, this time, because it's so close to graduation - i've created my own Class 1A rank. Previously, it was based on performance and grades throughout the entire hero course. This ranking i've made is all encompassing for the entire time i've known you all. Let's see if we can change our standing by the ends, hmm? Number 20: Aoyama..."

He begins to list off people from the bottom up, everyone holding their breath, hoping they don't get called next. It's when Aizawa hit the top 10 where it gets really interesting.

"Number 7...Yaoyorozu."

"What! Momo in seventh?" Uraraka, 8th, is losing it. So is Asui, who was 9th.
Everyone is trying to discern the reasons for the rankings - how could their number one academic student be pushed from her previous 4th place to 7th?

"Number 6...Iida"

Iida has remained in the same spot for a while, back and forth in the top 6, so he accepts it, nodding.

"Number 5...Tokoyami. Number 4...Kirishima."

"Oh my god, Ei!" Ashido turns around, excited for her friend. "Good job!"

Kirishima is about to lose his mind - last time they were ranked, he was 9th. Trying to keep it together he can't help but feel tears threatening his eyes. Koda, the seat behind him, has his hand on his shoulder, while Kaminari holds out his hand for a high five.

"Number 3...Todoroki."

A few of the students gasp - shooting their glance to Todoroki, who doesn't react.

"And then, of course Bakugo is first - Midoriya second." Clicking a button on his teaching screen, the list pops up on the board. "Well, any thoughts on that?"
Everyone erupts into questions, most of them happy, some of them a little bitter. Most notably, Yaoyorozu is sulking, silent.

"Hey. Hands up." They all freeze, many of them waving their hands around impatiently.

In his seat, Deku is just as worked up as Kirishima, his pride and his concern for everyone else's feelings mixing inside his head. He hasn't noticed that Bakugo turned around again, until he feels one quick squeeze on his fingers: "Why so fucking sad? You deserve it, nerd."

And maybe he does deserve it. It just feels, from being amicable with everyone in here - and all of them good enough to call themselves a rival - that's unfair to be called better than someone else.
This was one of the crutches that Hawks had called him about over the phone earlier this week, a goal for them to work up to. If he wanted to be number one, he would have to step on toes. He would have to have the confidence to do interviews and care more about his hair and his style and not just throw his life only into missions. He'd get more opportunity that way. He thinks he was likeable enough now, and he has fans, but he also has been in the news so much because of UA. Because of All Might. What will happen if everyone starts to excel once they're done here because they're cooler than him? He feels like they all are.

That was something to think about for another time, though. He can't get lost in his thoughts now when he has so many questions.

"Yes, Hagakure."

"I don't want to put Momo on the spot, but how can she possibly be seventh? Doesn't she always come first in tests?"

"Toru - it's fine - I - "

But before Yaoyorozu finishes, Aizawa puts a hand up: "I'm not just ranking school here. I'm looking at work studies, I'm looking at arrests, and I'm looking at reviews and the news; moreover, improvement and temperament. Now, like I said, ranking's aren't a perfect system. Yaoyorozu has been a great asset in her work study, hers is more rescue-based than arrest assists because she can create medical items among other things in an instant. In terms of curbing crime? No advantage there. That doesn't mean I don't think she is incredibly strong; make no mistake. I'm projecting how I think she would rank amongst the public."

Processing this, the class murmurs for a moment before one of them can't hold it in any longer.

"OKAY, BUT KIRISHIMA!" Ashido almost yells. "Tokoyami?"

"Mina…" Sinking in his seat, Kirishima is having the same problem as Deku; he's both elated and flabbergasted at his ranking - imposter syndrome was so real.

"Round of applause for RED RIOT!" Kaminari fist pumps, a few of the more enthused kids chanting a 'WOO!'

"Are you quite finished?" Though they settle down, most people have a small smile on for their friend, feeling it's well deserved. "Surprised, Kirishima?"

"Yeah, I mean...I've been working really hard, but so have we all." He's rubbing the back of his head, embarrassed to be put on the spot. "How did I beat Tokoyami?"

"Dark Shadow is an incredibly strong quirk, naturally. Both of you had a lot of growth to do in order to strengthen your quirks, but Kirishima has he edge in terms of marketability."

"Huh?"

"When you started here, you were in the bottom percentage for grades. You failed the midterm. Still, Suneater, Amajiki, scouted you immediately for a work study and you begged to go. You were one of five students who managed to get an internship against students who performed incredibly well comparatively - Tokoyami was scouted by the number two hero himself. Your grades have vastly improved; even if they're not A-levels you started with almost penalizing marks. Don't forget you got second in the entrance exam - I would say you're the most well-rounded in the entire class. Plus, with your consistent internship with Fat Gum? Not only do you have a seamless reputation in specific patrol areas, you've actually taken down more criminals than Bakugo, Todoroki and Midoriya combined."

"What!?"

"You're amazing, Ei!" Deku congratulates, noticing he's getting overwhelmed.
Glancing at Bakugo, he's relieved to see that Bakugo looks proud and not surprised at their arrest difference.

"How is that possible, though?" Jiro asks. "No offence at all, please. Just, Fat Gum hasn't scored so high in a while on the charts. How could he have more success?"

"I said overall. Three years is a long time. The Big Three have been working with top heroes, sure. But they have been working a lot more white collar crimes, so statistically Kirishima has an advantage. There's a lot of planning involved in missions Hawks, Edgeshot, and Endeavour - or the top 20, in general - tend to take on. Kirishima goes on patrols almost always at nighttime in unsafe areas, and almost always has multiple thugs locked up by the end."

"Ei is amazing," Deku repeats, watching Kirishima start to breathe heavier by every passing second.

"You don't look convinced. Do I really need to spell it out? Alright," Aizawa exhales, noticing he's about to have a meltdown. "You might not think that it's as impressive, Kirishima, but the more people you deter from a felony or a charge, the safer the average person is. You put yourself in immense danger every patrol. That's why people always say you have guts. You're the most improved student, and that consensus is from everyone who has taught this class, not just me."

Everyone?! Kirishima can't hold it in any longer.
"B-but, how? Midoriya - sniff - couldn't even use his quirk….and now he's...he's..."

"Aww, Ei!"

Multiple classmates around him reach over to comfort him, he's begun to cry softly, wiping his eyes with his elbow.

Maybe this rank was a mistake. Aizawa rubs his temples.
"I still ranked him above you, so maybe that should answer your question. Midoriya, before anyone else asks me, has had the advantage of high intelligence and hero inference since he started here, as well as drive. And his improvement is no joke. I really didn't think he'd make it past a month. Honestly, considering how reckless the two of you were, I can't believe I'm putting you at the top," Aizawa shakes his head as he glances at Bakugo and Deku. "Anyways, before we get too disgusting - I am proud of all of you. Class dismissed. I'm going to go take a nap, I have a headache."

{Korean BBQ}

With not a lot of convincing needed on his part, Bakugo has taken Kirishima and Deku out for an early dinner after school, his treat - their performances deserved food, and lots of it. It's Friday night, and they're hyped for the weekend.

Kirishima has been unusually quiet, grinning softly at his phone as he's eaten pieces upon pieces of meat.

"You texting Amajiki?" Deku asks, sitting quite close to Bakugo, whose hand is firmly attached to his thigh, teasing his cock every so often over the jeans he'd changed into. "Your date is tomorrow, huh?"

"Yeah! How'd you know? Sorry, I'll put my phone down," Kirishima flushes.

"It's ok, I'm sure he wants to hear all about your day! And he actually messaged me a few days ago and asked if I knew what you'd want to do," Deku chuckles, plopping some chicken in his mouth. "Didn't he text you too, babe?"

"Yep."
Bakugo was surprised to have a message requested from him, the text reading 'Hey, sorry to bother you. I have no idea what to do for a date with Kirishima - do you know what he might like? I know you guys are so close.' He's left it on read.

"Aw, jeez. I told him we could do whatever he wanted, but maybe that stressed him out because he'll be indecisive. He's just…"

"Yeah he doesn't like going out that much, it seems," Deku says, as nicely as possible. "There's a lot of things you can do without going downtown, though!"

"Yeah…I mean I was gonna suggest we could maybe go to a park or something? That's kind of lame though, huh. A picnic? I think his anxiety might flare up if we go somewhere too public."

"Are you really gonna be happy with someone so timid, Shitty Hair?"

"Huh?" Whipping his face to Bakugo, Bakugo is giving his regular scrutinizing look of disapproval.

"Kacchan, what the heck. He's gonna be a top ten hero - that's hardly timid," Deku replies, pushing Bakugo's hand off his lap and giving him a look. "I told him to ask Mina, Ei. Think she'll have a better idea than me."

"Yeah, probably. I mean, I've never really been on a date, and neither has he, so I don't know either...Kat, why do you think I wouldn't be happy? That's so mean."

He's shoving the meat, barely cooked, into his mouth now. Stress eating; Kirishima takes his best friend's opinions very seriously.

"Tch...just nevermind." Exhaling, Bakugo looks away, a bit sour that Deku doesn't want to be frisked anymore and is annoyed at him.

"No, I want to know. Please?"

Staring at the next round of food they're cooking, Bakugo thinks of how to say this without too much bite.
"I think it's just weird that after so long working with you, he wouldn't know what to do. Does he know you at all? And he asked you out, shouldn't he have a plan already?"

"Not everyone is as anal or organized as you..."

Ignoring that, Bakugo continues. "Plus, you were his first kiss, and he was embarrassed...you literally touch every person you meet and he can't stand to even talk for more than a second."

"Yes he can, just not when there's a crowd. And we cuddled under a tree; you barely know him!" Kirishima crosses his arms, getting flustered.

"I think he just wants to make sure it's good since he had to reschedule so often," Deku interjects. "Asking for a second opinion is really normal and sweet. People are different."

"I don't care if he gets nervous." Kirishima has fire blazing in his expression. "Izu is right."

"Someone should make time for you if they want to date you, regardless of if they're a hero or not. Maybe you don't care but, maybe he kept rescheduling out of nerves. And he's been your friend up until now, Kirishima," Bakugo lowers his tone. "But we literally just banged my boyfriend together last weekend. You love sex. Do you really think he's gonna be ready soon? It'll probably be months for him. What if he keeps having to reschedule? How are you going to handle that? I don't get it."

"What's not to get?"

"You deserve someone on your level, and I'm not convinced he's there, that's all," Bakugo dismisses.

"My level. What kind of shit is that? You don't know him like I do," Kirishima bites, feeling defensive. "Or at all. And you sound jealous right now. I thought you'd be happy for me."

"Jealous?" Bakugo argues, throwing his hands out testily. "I'm just looking out for you!"

"In what way? By stomping on my great day and weekend by being an ass? Inviting me out for dinner and then insulting the guy I've wanted to date for a while after you fucking dropped me like it was nothing!"

"Are you fucki - "

"Hey, guys? Maybe change of topic," Deku interrupts, pulling Bakugo back onto his seat as he's begun to cause a scene. He had jumped up, ready to fight with his words. "Kacchan, this is a restaurant. You don't know him at all, Ei's right. So shut it."

"Whatever. Take his side. I have to take a piss."

Rushing out of his seat, Deku glances at Kirishima, whose incredibly stoked demeanor has turned to sadness pretty damn quick. And regret.

"Ei…"

"Look, he riled me. I'm sorry. I know I said I was over it, but I don't need him giving me relationship advice after all the fucking times he's come running to me over you and had it work in his favour, I'm fine on my own."

Awkward now, Deku fidgets with his chopsticks, glancing at his phone to see if there might be anyone else he can distract himself with.

"I'm sorry…"

Red Riot's looking pretty damn downtrodden. He didn't deserve to after what happened earlier. "Man, Ei. Don't be sorry. He means well. He's just…"

"A huge idiot sometimes," Kirishima finishes, moping. "Look, I didn't tell Tamaki about our relationship at all. Do you think I should? Kat's right about the fact that he's going to need time, but I don't care. I like him a lot. It's just...is it really his business to know about this stuff? I mean the reason i didn't tell anyone about Katsuki banging me is because he wanted it to stay quiet."

"Um...Well I think if he asks if you've been with anyone before you should be honest. But who is gonna advertise that on a first date? Kacchan has had a shallow anger switch since Monday, he's in the wrong."

"Sure, but he was so happy today. Man, everytime I bring Tamaki up he gets all fucking weird. Like, how he was with you initially. Does he think he can keep me on a fucking lead or something? I'm not dating him, you are...it feels like he's jealous I have someone else to be close to that aren't you two."

"Maybe," Deku replies weakly. "He loves you, though...you were his only friend for a long time. But I don't want you to be upset and I get why you are."

"Ugh, i'm not upset. Just annoyed...I think I just put up with some hella bad behaviours before when I was blinded by Kat's dick to want to entertain that now….sorry. I'm being so rude."

Deku reaches over to grab Kirishima's hand, feeling him accept it even as he hides his face.

"I'm really proud of you, Ei. Everything Aizawa said was true. I'm sure Tamaki is too."

"Yeah…thanks."

Swimming with all that's been said, Deku is grappling with that. It's undeniable that Bakugo's been trying hard. Still, he was too blunt for his own good. And it's also undeniable that he got treated way better than Kirishima. No wonder he's bitter.

"Ei, Kacchan is different when we're alone too. He has no idea what he's talking about and has no right to tell you that about Tamaki. He should be cheering you on. Look, I'm going to invite him over tomorrow night and try and have a chill date. This week was rough for him. He shouldn't be regressing like this with his short fuse, I just...he cried the day he told me he loved me and was just so upset over how much pressure he's had."

"Yeah, I get it, but he's just starting to grate on my nerves. Maybe i'm just being an ass because i'm in a bad mood now, but no matter how much encouragement and patience he's given, he still acts like this so often…"

"Ei…"

"Just don't take on more than you deserve to."

"Huh?" He doesn't want to be hearing this right now.
Uraraka and Iida are ringing in his ears.

His irises glowing in the sunlight that's hitting their table, Kirishima is earnest, inhaling before replying. "I love Katsuki, too. But he's a lot on a good day. You seem to always have a story about him every other day having a breakdown. I'm really proud of his progress, but if i'm honest, being around you, so normal, and getting myself away from him a bit with other friends has made me realize he liked to keep me locked in a bubble - for comfort sake. And I let him."

"Ei…"

"Being liked by Kat makes you feel so good because he seems to hate everyone else. It's not healthy, sometimes. I like how he treats you, trust me. He can be a great person. I love the kid. Just don't lose yourself over him, okay? You're great."

They sit in silence for a bit longer, Deku no longer having any sort of appetite. Since Bakugo had told him he was in love with him, he had been dissecting all the reasons he might not love him back. About why he couldn't say it too.
It seems like an eternity before Bakugo returns to the table.

"Eijiro…"

"What?"

Flinching, Bakugo isn't used to him being so offensive towards him.

"You have an outfit picked out for tomorrow? I stopped a violent bank robbery for this dude that owns an expensive department store down near Tokyo Tower, and he gave me credit. Quite a lot of yen, because his niece was working when I was there and saved her. Do you wanna go look?"

Finally chancing a glance at his best friend, Kirishima notices the discomfort in Bakugo - the vulnerability. And he remembers that Bakugo told him he did have feelings for him before that he was attempting to quell because he was basically obsessed with Deku too...and maybe he's being a bit too salty? Even if what he told Deku is correct, he also didn't name any of his nice qualities.

"Okay."

"I'm sorry."

Shutting his eyes, Kirishima huffs, trying to clear his head before speaking.
"Just please stop acting like you know what's best for me. Only I know that. I'm glad you want me to have 'the best', but I want who and what I want, and you always try to counter me. I wouldn't be so highly ranked without you, Kat, you've helped me study I don't know how many times and fought me so I could get stronger. But i'm my own person too."

"I know. I just care about you."

Trembling, Bakugo, for the fiftieth time this week, really doesn't know how the fuck to be human being. Every day he's more emotionally vulnerable, every day he regrets it. Because now, after being better, he's being held to a standard he never had to when all he did was work out and tell people he was going to kill them with his quirk.

And it was starting to feel like it wasn't worth it if he kept getting resistance back. But then…

Kirishima has changed seats so he's on the other boys side of the booth, giving him a hug. "I know, that's why I'm so upset. I want your approval. I just wanted to have a good first date and have everyone be hyped up for me, you know?"

"Then let's go shopping, you idiot. If you want to impress Mr. Top Ten Hero, you need some fucking help. Your style sucks."

"Yeah, yeah." But while he rolls his eyes, he isn't able to get away so easy - for once, Bakugo is actually embracing him back, properly, fingers tight on his jacket.

{Ashido Apartment}

"Guys, oh my god! Look who is trying to contact me on insta!"

Uraraka and Hagakure are at Ashido's tonight, a little girls night. The topic at hand is Jiro being jealous that Kaminari's going on a date with Shiozaki - tonight. Right now, Hagakure is painting Uraraka's nails pink, Ashido running back from her kitchen with some wine coolers.

"Not Denki, right? Or Kyoka?"

"God, no! Kyoka won't say a damn thing to me about him, she knows we're too close. But girl better just get her shit together and finally just accept his stupid love, they're meant for each other. Anyways, no - it's freaking SUNEATER! Look, look!"

"NO way!"

She tosses the phone into Uraraka's lap, twisting the lid off her drink as she chugs it, jumping up and down.

Hi, sorry to bother you. I know we've only met twice. Midoriya told me you and Kirishima were good friends and that you might be able to help me. I'm trying to plan something for our date tomorrow but i'm really at a loss. I had to cancel a lot so I wanted to make it really nice. Do you have any suggestions? I'd really appreciate it. - Amajiki

"Not everyday you have a top ten hero sliding in your DMs," Hagakure squeals. "God, I wish I could send it to the group chat."

"Please, after Aizawa's wrath last time, I have to be smart. Also, wow, he's so polite. As if Mido told him I'd be better at helping. Have you noticed those three? Them and Bakugo - like...they're really…" Ashido hops onto her pink sheets, unable to come up with something, lying backwards off the bed as the other two are on her carpet.

"Oh, it's a weird energy for sure. Guaranteed that Deku and Bakugo have already done it," Uraraka hiccups, giggling. She had already had just a little much, super lightweight. "We've confirmed Kirishima and Bakugo did it….hehehe. I mean it makes sense Deku would get closer to Eijiro since he's Bakugo's only friend. Wonder if they talk sex together - they must. I've seen the way Kirishima hugs Deku - not that PG."

"Oh my god, Ochako! So bad," Ashido slaps her palm to her mouth. "Yeah, I mean, Bakugo is definitely whipped. And Deku has always had his cute little butt handed to him before this year in training and all he's had to say with thousands of injuries still is "Kacchan is amazing." Like if they haven't at least sucked each other's dicks, I'm the fucking pope."

"Psssh."
The other two girls are in fits, Ochako's left hand completely ruined with polish as she can't stay still.

"Speaking of sucking...you and Sero," Hagakure pokes her arm repeatedly, Ashido waving her invisible hand away.

"Ok, I'm not drunk enough yet for that sort of talk. But Suneater. Tamaki. Kirishima's bae. Here's what i'm thinking…"

She types out the draft and shows the girls, getting a few suggestions before she hits send.

Hey Tamaki! Ei is really about how the other person feels - he's the sweetest guy we know. He's going to want to make sure that you feel good and comfortable doing what you want to do for him and seriously doesn't care if you had to reschedule. He just wants to have fun with you. So that being said, did you have anything at all in mind? What would you want to do? He said you weren't into big events. :)

"He's typing, he's typing!"

Thanks. I mean true, usually I like to stay in. Watch a movie or listen to music. We eat so much when we're with Fat Gum and I have been getting really good at cooking seafood that's pretty elaborate for my quirk, but I know he prefers more red meat...I was going to cook for him. If all else fails. I just feel like maybe dinner at my place is a lot for a first date.

"Considering how shy he was when we said hi to him at school, he's pretty articulate online," Uraraka comments. "But Deku said when he saw him use his quirk, it was incredible. Like obviously he has skill being so highly ranked, it's just hard to imagine. So it must just be when there's gawkers and no villains."

"Dinner and a movie at Suneater's house," Hagakure sighs. "He's so dreamy."

"Seriously," Ashido comments. "That's so sweet though. Ei told me he'd never kissed anyone before - I mean, to be fair, I don't even think he's out officially. Maybe that's a concern too? I wonder what his body looks like under that cloak, though. Okay, okay, time to be serious."

That sounds really nice, actually. Ei likes surprises. I don't know if you know, but he really likes old karate films, and honestly, that boy will eat anything. So if it's something you're particularly good at? Make it for him. Call it your specialty. Tell him you wanted to make it for him.

And you think that's going to be enough? Tamaki replies.

Acknowledgement is what he appreciates best. I've known him since middle school - he used to be really insecure. He plays it off incredibly well, but I know it can get to him sometimes. And you saw his full potential before anyone else was, asking to meet up with him in first year - that meant a lot to him. He has been really excited to see you, so try to let that be, well, exciting, and not let it be too much pressure. He's not going to let it get awkward. I'm sure you know that. :)

"Mina, that's so sweet!" Hagakure is leaning over to read the message.

"I know," she smiles, taking another sip. "Hanta told me the other day that he was worried about how to talk to me, how to be around me sometimes, and that Ei gave him a great pep talk but didn't want me to know. He's such a good friend."

"Cute! Speaking of...you need to give details! I know your mans parents were gone the other day! I heard the boys talking before class!"

"Fine, fine," but she's obviously relishing in the spotlight. "But you also need to tell me about Ojiro! I saw him flirting with you. Just let me make sure Suneater is good...Oh, my, god!"

She holds up her purple phone: Yeah, Kiri is a gem. I've been anxious, but it's a good anxious. Thanks for your help! I appreciate it so much, I'm glad he has such nice friends. Xox

"Kiri. And he sent me hugs and kisses! Ahh!"

"I'm DYING!" Uraraka is so close to activating her quirk on herself to float, she needs to push her arms away.

"If Ei doesn't tell me about this fucking date, I am going to LOSE IT!"

Before getting into the full swing of gossip, Ashido fires off one last message before turning her cell to silent.

Anytime, let me know if you need any more advice! :)

Comfy in his bed, Tamaki is smiling. He has recipes filing through his brain - he had memorized so much finite detail that he remembered some things down to the tsp of salt.

Tomorrow was going to be perfect, that was a damn promise.