When Thursday morning after the festival rolls around, Free Hastings and Izuku Midoriya follow through on their usual routine of meeting up and taking the train together. Yet, unlike before, a few minutes on the packed car is all it takes for the pair to draw attention, numerous people complimenting and congratulating them.
Unlike with the media, the American girl doesn't mind when getting crowded and questioned, rather enjoying having casual conversation with strangers. Most, a lot more polite and considerate; no cameras or the likes being shoved in her face. Though, she is asked to take a few pictures, which is a small give, and part of being a Hero in the works.Unfortunately, the weather puts a damper on the usually bright and cheery Texan's mood, the lack of sun a bummer.
Though I love the smell of rain… and puddles.
Midoriya walks few steps behind the girl to avoid her splashing, a small smile on his face at the hot-pink polka dot rain boots she wears, jumping in every build up of water they pass. It appears to wash away her melancholy, a childish laugh adorning every hop.
"Good morning Midoriya-kun, Hastings-san!" The easily recognizable voice of Iida calls out. "Why are you walking so slowly?" The class rep adorning a green poncho and raincoats in his run towards U.A, passing them. "You're going to be late!"
"Late? There are still five minutes until the first bell," Izuku pointed out, Free looking at her phone to confirm it.
"U.A students should always arrive ten minutes early!"
"Then I'd have to wake up ten minutes earlier every morning," the redhead mused watching the two boys run for the doors now. I'll catch up in class, orange spotting a larger puddle off the side and making for it.
--
Unsurprisingly, Free is the last to arrive in class, her knee-high socks removed due to under calculating the depth of the last puddle. "Yo," she greeted, sliding the door shut and shuffling over to Tenya's desk. "Hey class rep, can I ask a favor of ya?"
Iida perking up instantly, finally! One of my peers is coming to me for help!
"Of course, Hastings! What can I do?"
"Well… hopefully it's not crossing any boundaries, but I could use a hug," rehearsing what she practiced ahead of time, knowing a little bit about him. "I'm kinda down from the weather and I'm missing my cousin back in America too… it was his birthday yesterday and ya kind of remind me of him…" trailing off as Iida is thrown for a loop, likely having never been asked such a thing from anyone, nonetheless a girl, who isn't family.
However, it's what's asked of him, the tall teen standing up and moving around the desk with rigid robot arms to do so, opening them up to wrap around his female classmate and friend.
Got ya, Free successfully cuddling into his chest and returning the embrace fiercely, hoping that even a few moments of comfort and affection will have a minor effect on the engine-legged male.
You're hurting for your brother and family… I know what that's like. Let me help ease it, if only for a minute.
Predictably, he waits for her to step away, Free tilting her head back to look up at him with a soft smile. "Thanks Hero. Sometimes all ya need is a good hug, yakknow?" Tenya nodding, a faint blush on his cheeks as she turned to head to her own seat, the engine legged male slowly returning to his.
"What was that?!" Ashido wide-eyed as she addressed Tsuyu.
"A hug. Ribbit."
"Yeah, but from the rep? Why not ask Midoriya or Bakugo," golden eyes shifting to them across the room, where Free removes her blazer and bag while saying something to the bomber.
~
"Sign any autographs on the way here, Stud? Or were people to afraid ta ask after ya little chained up bit at tha end?" Katsuki's eye twitching as he stares out the window, rather than give her the attention. The American shrugging it off and winking at Izuku when their eyes meet over the blonde's shoulder.
The classroom door slides open just as the redhead sits down, Aizawa greeting them, "Morning."
"Good morning!"
"Ribbit. Your bandages are all done, Sensei. I'm glad," Tsuyu acknowledged, a number of others agreeing with her sentiments.
"The old lady went overboard with her treatment. More importantly, we're having a special hero informatics class today."
Special?
"Code names. You'll be coming up with hero names."
"We're gonna do something exciting!" The class cheering simultaneously, until Aizawa's glare and floating hair silences them.
"This is related to the pro hero draft picks I mentioned the other day. The drafts begin in earnest in the second and third years, after students have gained experience and can become immediate assets to the pros."
In America it's 3rd and 4th year.
"In other words, for them to extend offers to first years like you shows they are interested in your future potential. These offers are often canceled if that interest dies down by graduation."
"Adults are so selfish," Mineta complained knocking his fist on his desk.
"So, we gotta keep proving ourselves till then, huh?" Free mused out loud.
Nothing new.
"That's right… so here are the totals for those with offers," the teacher clicking his projected board remote, a list popping up for the students to view.
Todoroki – 4123
Hastings – 3966
Bakugo – 3555
Tokoyami – 360
Iida – 301
Kaminari – 272
Yaoyorozu—108
Kirishima-- 68
Uraraka – 20
Sero -- 14
Holy shit, the maroonette gaping at the 4000 offers.
"In other years, it's been more spread out, but all eyes were on these three this year."
"Gah!" Denki throwing his head back in exasperation, "there's such a big difference."
Free chuckles at a few other comments concerning the scoring, Sero's in particular as it sets off the explosive boy behind her. "It's just year one guys… guaranteed everyone here gets well over a few hundred next festival." Her heart going out to Izuku most, who didn't receive any.
"Keeping these results in mind, whether or not anyone asked you, you will all be participating in internships with pros." Aizawa goes on.
"Internships?" Midoriya voiced for everyone.
"Yeah. At USJ, you already got experience combat with real villains, but it will still be meaningful training for you to see pros at work firsthand."
"So that explains the hero names!" Satou said, Ochaco just as exuberant from her seat beside the larger male.
"Things are suddenly getting a lot more fun!"
"Well, those hero names are still temporary, but if you're not serious about it—"
"—you'll pay for it later!" Midnight strutting in and cutting off the homeroom teacher, full R rated costume adorned. "Because a lot of hero names used by students become recognized by society and they end up becoming professional hero names!"
"Midnight!"
"Well, that's how it is. So, Midnight will be making sure your names are okay. I can't do stuff like that." The Erasure Hero pulling his sleeping bag out from behind the desk. "Hastings. I'm right in assuming you're keeping the same one you used in America. Why don't you share it with the class for an example?"
"Sure," Free getting up from her seat and taking the piece of chalk the male teacher held out and walking to the blackboard, writing out the one she chose years ago.
Lumo Hero: Wildwing
"Someone important to me is the original creator... she's gone now." Mei-ling... "But I'm hoping to honor her memory by putting it to good use. Savings lives and changing the world kinda stuff, yakknow?"
As many and as much a possible, for them.
The female pro clapped her hands a few times, "it's perfect! Exactly what you want from a Heroname." The class joined in, a few compliments coming from some of the students, the Texan throwing up a peace sign prior to erasing the name and retaking her seat.
"When you give yourself a name, you get a more concrete image of what you want to be like in the future, and you can get closer to it." Shota explains to his students. "This is what it means when they say, 'Names and natures do often agree.' 'All Might' is another example."
White boards and markers passed back, every teenager opening the black pens to work on code names. Free Hastings using hers to draw an angry cartoon of the ash-blonde, whom currently scribbles names out angrily on his own behind her.
Orange-sunrise peaking to see what he came up with, while writing some ideas of her own for him and coming up with a few:
1. The Nitro Hero: King Explosion
2. Explosive Hero: Dynamite
3. Bomb God or Nuke King
When finished, she turned it to show Mezo in the desk next to hers, Jiro catching a glance of the tasteful art work and snorting, her hand coming up to cover her mouth and look away to avoid laughing some more.
"Ooo, what's this," Nemuri sighting the Americans board and languidly strolling over. "These are excellent… have you shown him?" The women's sky blue sliding to the topic of conversation, whose quick go realize he is, eyes narrowing in annoyance when the redhead twists around to look at him.
"I know ya will probably have nothing good ta say about these, but wanted to throw out a few cool names that come ta mind when I think of the hero ya will become," Free holding up her board and flipping it to show him.
Katsuki refusing to admit all of them are pretty good, but, mines better though. At least he thought so, until presenting 'King Explosion Murder', when given the opportunity.
Midnight fast to shut it down and recommending removing the murder part, a majority of everyone having presented theirs already as is,
· Free as Lumo Hero: Wildwing.
· Aoyama as Shining Hero: Can't Stop Twinkling.
· Tsuyu as Rainy Season Hero: Froppy.
· Kirishima as Sturdy Hero: Red Riot.
· Jiro as Hearing Hero: Earphone Jack.
· Shoji as Tentacle Hero: Tentacole.
· Sero as Taping Hero: Cellephane.
· Ojiro as Martial Arts Hero: Tailman.
· Satou as Sweets Hero: Sugarman.
· Mina as Pinky.
· Kaminari as Stun Gun Hero: Chargebolt.
· Momo as Everything Hero: Creati.
· Todoroki as Shoto
· Tokoyami as Jet-Black Hero: Tsukuyomi.
· Mineta as Fresh-picked Hero: Grape Juice.
· Koda as Petting Hero: Anima.
· Ochaco as Uravity
· Iida as Tenya.
Only Izuku remained, besides the undecided bomber, who contemplates combining his with the American's, but doesn't want to give her the benefit. However, the other boy stands up front to present his name.
Deku, a smile tugging at Free's' mouth as he takes what was once an insult and gives it a new meaning.
"Are you really okay with that?" Kaminari asked, Kirishima weary as well.
"You might be called that forever, you know."
"Yeah. I didn't like this name until now. But someone changed the meaning of it, and that had a huge impact on me. It made me really happy," the feeling showing on his face, words hitting the Texan in the heart.
Ya special Bunny… I'm glad someone like Chacochip was able to make ya realize that.
Again, Bakugo's code name of 'Lord Explosion Murder' is shut down, laughs and jokes made at his expense for once. Until finally, he writes one that satisfied both him and the female pro-hero; Great Explosion Hero: Dynamite God. The carmine-orbed teen pointedly disregarding his maroon-haired classmate in his return to sit, even if her smile is bright and inviting. Free just happy to have helped.
"Now that everyone's decided on their hero names, we'll go back to talking about the internships." Class 1.A's homeroom teacher supplied. "They will last for a week. As for where you'll have them, those who had offers will be given your own lists, so you can choose for those yourself."
Maybe I'll just close my eyes and point at one, Free mused, not looking forward to going through 4000 options.
"Those who didn't have offers will choose from amount forty agencies around the country that will be accepting our interns. They all work in different places and have different specialties."
"For example, Thirteen would be focused on rescues from accidents and disasters more than fighting villains." Mrs. Kayama adds.
"Think carefully before you choose." Eraserhead finished.
"Yes sir!"
The Americanis handed her offers, eyes scanning the first page as she ponders what she specifically wants…
I want to be a light in the darkness, when all else seems lost. A ray of hope to those in trouble, urging them to hold on because I'll be there to save them. I'll do everything in my power to…
"Holy shit," the curse exiting her mouth without thought. The Nighteye Agency.
"Hastings," her teacher warned.
"Sorry. Holy fudge," correcting herself and leaving the rest unread; decision already made. Sir Nighteye is her all time favorite Hero after Uncle Toshi, and also, her first serious crush. The man personally involved in rescuing her a couple years ago, having teamed up with All Might once more for her mothers sake. The number one hero's old sidekick fond of Elle Hastings.
The bell rings half past nine for next class, both teachers taking their leave, "turn in your choices before the weekend.
"We've only got two days?" Denki panicking.
"Make your decision efficiently. Dismissed." Aizawa closing the door in his depart.
"Free, what agency got you all excited just now?" Jiro asked, the redhead grinning and shifting towards her.
"The Nighteye Agency." A gasp coming from her freckled neighbor. "Right?! Sir Nighteye himself," a dreamy sigh escaping the Texans full lips as she thinks about Mirai Sasaki.
"T-That's incredible Free!" Izuku's words somewhat registering, the girl still lost in thought until Cementoss arrives to teach Math. Present Mic after that for English.
--
When lunch rolled around, Free exits the class in a elegant dash for one specific reason: Katsuki Bakugo. The thought of him cashing in on the bet they made weeks prior, crossing her brain multiple times in the last 48 hours.
He's going to make me pay up, but when is the question?
Unsurprisingly, the maroonette is one of the firsts in Lunchrush's line, ordering something random for fun and sitting down at an empty table to eat it. She's only alone for a minute, till Denki, Hanta and Eijiro joined her with their own meals.
"What was that back there?" The electric blond asked, referring to her cowardly getaway.
"Just biding my time till I gotta pay a debt to tha devil," she joked, blowing on the spicy rice and tofu on her chopsticks.
"Is this about that bet you and Bakugo had going?" The spiky redhead making the correct guess, Free nodding.
"How much did you lose?" Sero vvoicing what the other two males are wondering too.
"Just my dignity. No big deal."
"That bad, huh?" Kirishima patting her on the shoulder. "Anything I can do to help."
"Probably not. I'm the idiot who got myself into this mess… just try not to laugh when I'm sure to embarrass myself. Maybe get some pics and videos. Might as well cash out big in a few years and sell 'em to the tabloids."
--
Meanwhile, in the 1.A classroom, Katsuki tucks his stuff away for later, before approaching his vice rep with a sketch he did himself on a sheet of paper last night. "Hey Ponytail. Can you make this or not?" Lifting it up for her to see, Momo furrowing her brows at the drawing.
"Of course… may I ask why?"
"It's for Brickhead. She owes me and this is part of her payment. So?"
Yaoyorozu ponders it for a brief second, then nods; the last thing she wants to do is dismiss the explosive teen, especially when he's being half-decent for once. "Give me a moment," the creator rolling up her sleeve and using her Quirk to produce the clothing set and handing it to him.
"Hah…" a sadistic smirk on the bombers mouth. "Your Quirk ain't half bad." Bakugo putting the material in his bag and taking it with him in his leave of the classroom, with one goal in mind: payback."Heads up," Hanta commented, eyes setting sight on the way unusually happy ash-blond, who comes to a stop at the table just as the freckled girl glanced up from her lunch.
"Ah. Shit."
"Got something for you Pumpkin Face," Katsuki dropping the outfit in her lap, proceeding to pull out 10000 yen and holding it out for her to take. "Buy me lunch. Number 19, extra spicy," red orbs checking his phone, "you're on the clock till 11:53 a.m tomorrow. When last bell rings, you're to change in to that."
Free sighed, "anything else, ya highness," not bothering to look at the what's sure to be embarrassing costume and storing it away for later as she stands.
"Don't talk to me unless spoken too, got it?"
An ugly expression crosses her face for an instant, his order reminding the Texan of her father. "Whatever," bringing her tray to deposit it properly and return in line.
"What did the Bomber say to get that reaction?" A voice inquired over the 5'8 girl's' shoulder, orange meeting violet as she tilted her chin upwards to find Hitoshi Shinso.
"Something shitty said by someone even shittier I use to know…" shaking off the anger it brought by running her fingers through the loose curls. "It doesn't matter. Ya looking forward to training today? Please ask Aizawa to get a picture of ya hanging by his scarf whenever the opportunity arises. I'll pay," she teased, pressing a few buttons on the order screen for Prettyboys' selection and swiping her card.
"To be honest, I'm not sure what to expect… any advice?" He asked, receiving a hum as she thinks about it.
"Load up on easy to digest carbs and always be rational in everything that you do. Wear your gym uniform too and a good pair of shoes."
"Easy enough," following her forward, where they both collect their numbered orders and moving along.
"Ya sitting somewhere already?" Red brow raised in curiosity, Shinso shrugging.
"Nothing's set in stone."
"Come on. If I stall any longer there's sure ta be a complaint," Free motioning him to join her and the others, quietly leading the way until halting at the end to put Katsuki's food down where he's seated. With a glance at Shinso, she circles to the left to sit next to Sero, wwhile veered right ans sitting beside Kirishima. "This is Hitoshi Shinso. He's kind of my Padawan. I'm teaching him the ways of the force," she introduced, the general student contemplating her reasoning for delivering lunch to the arrogant festival winner amid nodding in greeting.
"Hey man! I'm Kirishima Eijiro," the sturdy hero in training friendly as always, shark tooth smile directed at the newcomer.
"You're the brainwashing dude, right? That Quirk is something else! Kaminari Denki," electric teen pointing to himself. "You can call me either one!"
"Pikachu works too. Pikapika another choice," the Texan nudging Denki jokingly, his arm wrapping around her shoulders and tucking her in closer.
"No way Free-chan! Only you can call me that. It's more special that way," wiggling his eyebrows at the cute American.
"Okay Jamming-yay," using Jiro's hilarious joke code-name she came up with for him, Kaminari putting his hand on his left peck and faking heartache.
"SO CRUEL!"
Kirishima and Sero laugh with her, Hitoshi well aware he's missing something, but smiling at the easy camaraderie between the group of students. "Sero Hanta by the way. And this bundle of sunshine is Bakugo Katsuki," the brunette last to acquaint himself and figuring he might as well do it for the other teen, who probably won't make the effort. "Speaking of," Hanta leaning forward to lay his dark eyes on the female student, "what possessed you to make a bet with him, of all people?"
Free shrugged, "dumb and reckless ideas just seem to come to the forefront of my brain whenever Prettyboy's around. Might be the death of me some day."
"That's why you bought him lunch? You lost a bet?" Shinso fast to connect the pieces.
"Hah. She'll be doing a lot more than that," Bakugo remarked, his smirk from earlier returning.
"To be fair, I technically only lost one of the two we made... but it kinda feels like both since I'll likely spend the entirety of my winnings over the next 24 hours catering to this guy," redhead not bothering to look at Katsuki since his orders earlier.
"24 hours?!" Denki gawking. "Can he make you do anything?!"
"Within reason. S'not like I'm gonna go beat someone up for him," rolling her eyes and shaking her head. "Or whatever perverted thoughts just crossed ya mind Pikachu."
Denki pretends to be insulted at her assumption, "I would never."
"Tell that to the 30 pictures ya took of me in the cafeteria the other week."
"What were the bets exactly?" Hitoshi asked once swallowing his bite of food, brow raised at the maroonette, who free's herself from the electric blonds hold.
"That he'd owe me 10000 yen if I made top three in the festival, and if he made first I'd be stuck serving him for a full day… I was riding on Shoto or Izuku winning it all."
"What?! You thought the nerd had a chance in beating me?" Her words swift to set off the explosive male, who practically breathes fire at the mouthy American.
"Freckles is special... he's got everything it takes ta be number 1. Heart, brains, compassion. Once he masters his Quirk, Izuku's gonna be force to be reckoned with," genuine with her declaration of the mossy-haired boy. "But ya already know that, huh, Hothead? That's why ya give him such a tough time."
Rubies twitching at everything leaving the Texans full lips, "I'm going to remake you regret spewing all that stupid shit by the time tomorrow comes."
"Ya can try, but I doubt it. Ya won't measure up to Daddy-dearest, who was far more sadistic and pig-headed than you'll ever be."
"It's hard to imagine someone more pig-headed," Hitoshi remarked, Free surprised by his bluntness, before laughing whole-heartedly.
Katsuki on the other hand, shifts in threat to examine the department kid, "you looking to die, Ube?"
"I don't think anyone's ever really looking to die, right?" his witty comment irking the already testy bomber worst.
"One more word and I'll—" click.
"Finish your food and shut up for a while," Shinso having no issue using his Quirk to silence the loud blond, Bakugo getting no choice in the matter.
He's not going to be too happy about this in a few minutes, butterfly girl peering at the brainwashed male, slight unease sitting in her stomach. Even seeing it on someone else gives me ptsd, moving her hands under the table to hide their trembling.
"Woah..." Kaminari glancing between the two. "You're Quirk is sick man… your good-looking to. Bakubro might have some serious competition now."
The redhead slapping him upside the head for his stupid comments and returning her hand into hiding. "Ya almost as bad as Mina. Why is it that every guy I'm involved with has to be more than just on a friendly basis?"
"Guys and girls can never just be friends. Especially when they look like you Free-chan," he counteracted while rubbing the minor bruising, Kirishima shaking head in disagreement and watching how this'll play out.
With an eye roll, Free drawled in a thick southern accent, "looks aren't everything Denki… inside here is a whole box of feral cats," motioning to her skull.
"I personally like cats," the lavender-haired male chimed, gaining the attention of a pair of vibrant peach orbs.
"Ya the type to go to those cat cafes they have here, huh?" Free's teasing earning a faint blush of him, making her chuckle. "I'm right, aren't I?"
"Possibly."
"I've never been… let's go together one day, since ya probably know the best this city has ta offer."
Kaminari gasped, "see?! You just asked him out, proving I'm right! Guys and girls can't only be friends! Movies and TV shows say the exact same thing." Electric male going back to his earlier statement while waving at them.
"Okay. Let me get this straight… what if I was dating ya currently, but wanted to go to Hitoshi's favorite Café with him?"
"Easy. Obviously, I'd come along because you're my girlfriend and I'd be an idiot to let you go on a date with another guy."
"But it's not a date! It's just hanging out! S'not like I'm gonna sitting on his lap and whispering dirty things ta him in the Café corner, like I would my boyfriend." The American watching every single one of their faces go pink (minus Katsuki). "Ya guys make it too easy ta fluster ya'll."
"You do it on purpose! I knew it!" Denki calling her out.
"Since you admitted to that, answer this question honestly… do you actually like Bakugo here, or are you just messing with him too?" Sero pointing at the still mind-controlled male.
"Now, now, Hanta. A girl can't give away all her secrets. At least not to ya'll," she teased again. "I reserve the real good shit for sleepovers with girlfriends... which I actually haven't done since America..."
Maybe this weekend I change that up with a soiree of games, girl talk and fun.
"Guys, we should get going. There's less than ten on the clock till class," Eijiro supplied, the other four in agreement.
"I'll take care of ya tray Sugarplum. If I were ya, I'd exit asap, prior to releasing the hothead."
"Thanks… before that, do mind giving me your phone number? We can plan a day for that study date."
"Sure," the redhead gladly taking his cell and sending herself a text. "I'll get together what's needed for the first session," passing it back with a smile.
"See you around," Shinso lifting a few fingers in goodbye, earning a round of 'later' from the four, ahead of taking his leave. The second his back disappeared from their sight, Katsuki regained self-awareness.
"You okay man?" Kirishima asked, patting the ash-blondes shoulder a few times.
"The fuck…" Bakugo scanning the clock, haze clearing from his mind and fast to pick up on what occurred and aware of all that happened in his trance. "Damn Ube, where the hell he go?"
"To class. He seems too smart to stick around here and get his face blown off," Hanta says amid clearing his mess, everyone else copying. Free taking both Hitoshi's and Katsuki's trays and dealing with them.
"Hah. Guess you're smarter than you look Brickhead. Didn't even have to tell you."
The Texan refusing to acknowledge his snark by choosing to lead the way back to 1.A by walking in front of the teenage boys a few steps and humming a tune under her breath. The five students arriving to class with a couple minutes to spare and spending a couple minutes chatting with others.
--
When last bell goes, Katsuki slams a sheet of paper on Free's desk and grins when she raises her head to look at him. "Once you're dressed meet me out front of the school. You'll be reading that for everyone leaving to hear."
Free glances at the written paragraph and snorts as she stands up. "This is right up ya alley," packing away her stuff and sliding on the green backpack, addressing Izuku, "hey Freckles. I won't be journeying home with ya today… ya know why."
Midoriya nodding, "r-right..." Oh Free… what were you thinking betting against Kaachan.
"Also, if any of ya are looking ta have a good laugh, don't rush off. It'll be coming straight ta ya outfront of the school in ten minutes," announcing her soon to be utter embarrassment with a peace sign and exiting the classroom.
"Dude, there's no way I'm missing this. Let's go and get some good seats for this," Denki, Mineta and Sero already in the midst of packing up and heading out.
"I'm lost? What is Freezy talking about?" Mina voiced, a number of others on the same confusion level.
"Free lost a bet to explosion boy," Kirishima shared, Bakugo raising an explosive fist at him for the nickname.
"Call me that one more time, Shitty-hair."
"Oh no… so that outfit I made earlier was for whatever she's about to do?" Momo feeling immediately guilty in helping the bomber now.
"D-don't sweat it Yaoyorozu-San. Free has been preparing herself the last two days for this." Izuku noticing the creator's' expression.
"Free doesn't seem like the type to let such things bother her." Todoroki says in his own process of leaving. "If it did, she wouldn't have invited us to watch."
"She does believe laughter is underrated! That's why she jokes around so much!" Ochaco bouncing all over and ready to go. "After, maybe we can walk to the station together Deku?"
"H-hai!"
--
All changed and ready, Free Hastings stands to examine herself in the mirror, shaking her head at the personalized cheer uniform, consisting of black short-shorts and matching crop top with Katsuki's face on it. Across the shoulder blades is his last name and at center back is #1 stitched in blood-red.
"At least these show off my best asset," referring to her long tanned legs and butt as she digs through the locker change room for the pompoms she shoved in after the festival.
Might as well go all out.
--
Shortly, the American hero student finds herself sliding her sneakers on in the foyer and pausing at the door to peek outside, a half-groan-half-laugh escaping as she sees the crowd.
At least the rain stopped ealier.
"Here goes," pushing through the first-year doors and confidently strolling into the courtyard, straight for the empty space at the center of everyone.
"Go Freezy!" Ashido's cheers comforting the redhead somewhat, who turned to Katsuki with wink.
"No time like the present," Free starting off by tossing her backpack to Izuku and placing the pompoms on her hips, counting down a beat, "3.. 2.. 1.."
"Give me a B!" Texan shaking her pompoms in the air as multiple people do so.
"B!"
"Give me a A," forming the letters with her arms simultaneously.
"A!"
"Give me a K!"
"K!"
"Give me a U!"
"U!"
"Give me a G!"
"G!"
"Give me a O!"
"O!"
"Put it all together and what does it spell?"
"BAKUGO!"
"Bakugo, Bakugo, he's the man, if he can't do it, no one can!" The more she continued, the more students show up, now somewhat thankful the thick skin her past provided.
Time for my homage to Salt N Peppa. I wonder if anyone will catch onto this; maybe Jiro?
With a breath, she goes on, "now, I want to take a minute or two, and give much respect to the man who's made a difference in my world." Her words on rhythm with 'Whatta Man' in thought. "And although most men are lame, this one's got some serious game, 'cause I never heard him placing anything but first place," shaking her poms at Katsuki.
I'm an idiot, she mused midway through, wondering how much this will come back to bite her in the ass.
"Of course, I don't sweat it, because he's so damn athletic, no point getting involved with that he and she extras crowd. I know there ain't nobody perfect, I give props to those who deserve it, and believe me ya'll he's worth it! So, here's to the future, 'cause we got through the past, I finally found someone who can kick my ass, ahahah, he so crazy, I think I wanna be his lady."
Kyoka looses it in the crowd, "do it Free! Sing the chorus!"
The American belting out, "what a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man."
"Yes, he is!" Her musically gifted friend shouts for her.
"What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man."
"He's a mighty, mighty good man!" Jiro getting the other girls to join too.
"What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man."
"Gotta say it again now!"
"What a man, what a man, what a man, what a mighty good man," Free kneeling in finish with her pompoms aimed to show off the ash-blond bomber, who doesn't know what the hell just happened.
She wasn't suppose to enjoy this shit! What the fuck is wrong with her?!
The collection of gathered students hollered and cheered, Free throwing up a peace sign in good spirits as some of her fellow classmates surrounded the pair, while the rest begin to disperse. "Autographs are 200 yen, pictures 500." She joked, a round of laughter passing through the throng of teenagers.
"I can't believe you had the nerve to do that!" Jiro said, Ochaco and Tsuyu nodding on either side of her. "I'm so impressed by your Salt N Pepper revamp! Did you just come up with that beforehand?"
"Yep. I was donning this wonderful attire when it came ta mind. I've been on an old school hip hop and rap grind lately. Totally paid off today."
"Free-chan! What's it going to take for you do all this for me?" Denki throws in.
"Winning first place in next years Sports Festival," she says without a beat, the girls giggling as he complained.
"Against Todoroki?! What chance do I got?"
"Guess I better start finding something that rhymes with Elsa."
"Shoto might be easier," the ice user himself suggested.
"Don't bother. Icyhot won't be beating me anytime soon," Katsuki snarked from behind, Free glancing back at him.
"In that case, I'll have to," she challenged.
"Hah. You'll never get better than third place Buggirl."
"We'll see Prettyboy," the redhead moving away to accept her bag from Midoriya, who shoots her a small smile from next to Todoroki.
"Good luck with Kaachan… text me when you're going home, I'll walk you."
"Ya don't have to do that Freckles, I'm a big girl."
"I'd feel better knowing you got home safe in the dark."
"What'd I do to get lucky enough to crash in ta'ya last month?" The question ruffling him right up.
"I-It's the other way around, Free."
"Here I was thinking ya can say nothing wrong, but ya just did," the girl tugging on a messy green lock of his hair. "I'll text ya. I promise."
"O-okay!"
"While on the subject of texting, I was hoping to get your number." Shoto already in possession of Midoriya's and a few others, but not hers.
"Sure, here," unlocking her phone and handing it to him, the device returned shortly and tucked away. "I have so many Endeavor memes you're going to appreciate. This is the start of a beautiful friendship Shoto."
"Memes…" he trails off entirely unsure of the meaning and catching her gaze, "I'm new to friendship… is that apart of it?" His cluelessness drawing a small giggle from the sunrise-eyed teen.
"It's a give and take, live and learn deal. Every bond between friends is different." American girl expressing her opinion on what genuine friendship means, "once ya know someone, that's when it really pays off and vice-versa… they're usually the first ones there and last ones ta leave. The ones ya trust to have your back or to comfort ya when ya cry. A family ya build, rather than forced to accept just cause of blood."
Every single word resonating with the heterochromic-haired male, who stores it preciously to come back to. "I never knew…"
"Free is so manly for a girl!" Eijiro wiping his eyes, the Texan realizing all of 1.A was diligently listening to her prattle on.
"Wo-manly, one would say," she remarked, laughing at her lame joke as Mina pops up beside her.
"Freeeezy! You feel that way about me, right?"
"Of course, Bubblegum. Ya my girls! That's soo much deeper than friendship…" Redhead throwing an arm around Pinky. "Speaking of, I was thinking the six of us should have a sleepover at my place Saturday night?"
"YES! I haven't had one in ages!"
"Me either!!" Ochaco chimed in.
"I'll figure it out with my Ma and text ya'll the details tonight! Kay?"
"I never had a sleepover with more than one friend, nonetheless at someone else's house… it'll be a new experience!" Momo smiling at the thought of spending quality time with her school friends outside of class.
"I'll finally get to hear you play the bango!" Jiro input, Tsuyu nodding beside her.
"Perhaps we can watch The Princess and the Frog. Ribbit."
"Sure thing, Tiana! We'll all pick an activity and follow through," Free proposed, her girl friends liking the idea and chatting amongst themselves while she ducked away, shuffling towards Katsuki, who talks with Eijiro and Denki off to the side now.
"Free-chan!" Tetsutetsu called out amid jogging over to her, leaving a number of his classmates gathered across the courtyard in mid conversation.
"Heya T."
"What was that?!" The 1.B student motioning to her outfit and ridiculous routine.
"Me turning a lost into some fun. Whaddya think?" Bright-orange orbs on the gray-haired male. "If my Hero career doesn't work out, I can always go back ta Texas and cheer for big money,"
"NO WAY! The world needs a hero as bright you Free-chan!"
"Yeah? Ya come all the way over here to charm me Tetsutetsu?" she teased shamelessly, giggling when he blushed shaking his head back and forth.
"N-no! Uh, not that I wouldn't! But it wasn't my intention! Really!"
"I'm just bugging ya," nudging his elbow playfully and grinning.
"Brickhead, stop your blabbering and let's go." Bakugo hollered, Free twisting to see him already walking for the school gates to leave.
"Right," returning her sight to the other teen. "I gotta go T. I'll explain all this later in detail," she promised, Tetsutetsu nodding.
"Okay, Free-Chan! Good luck with that guy and have a good evening!"
"Ditto!" The redhead throwing up a peace sign and turning around to catch up to the explosive male, calling out, "night every one! See ya tomorrow!" Multiple voices bidding the same in her exit, Free swiftly joining Katsuki on the pathway and smiling when his eyes slide to her.
"The hell was that back there?"
"What? The cheer?"
"Aa."
In response, she digs in her bag to pull out a set of earphones and cellphone, scrolling through it for the specific song and holding out one of earbuds. Surprisingly, he takes it without any prompting and tucking in his ear, music playing a moment later. Together, the pair journey away from their school towards the station, both content listening to the Playlist she leaves playing even when Salt-N-Peppa ends.
"Like my remake? It pretty much said everything ya wanted me to from that list," the butterfly girl remarked while they wait for the train, first words in fifteen minutes.
"Hah. Wasn't terrible Red."
"Bet ya thought I would be humiliated, huh?"
He snorts, "can't humiliate stupid," carmine resting on her freckled face amidst his insult, Free rolling her eyes.
"Or it's better ta make the best out of shitty situation and find a way ta enjoy it."
"Is that what you've been telling yourself all day?"
"Nah. I'd never consider spending quality time with ya shitty," she quipped, her flirting earning a blush from him, the ash-blond turning his face away with a huff. "So, whaddya got in mind? Chores, right?"
"A shit ton."
"Not so bad. Am I gonna meet ya parents?"
"Fuck no," Bakugo says, "only reason today worked out is cause my parents are out tonight."
"Awe. Thought ya might finally be warming up ta me, Stud."
"Hah?" Red meeting orange in question.
"Ya know, bringing me home ta meet that folks and all that jazz?"
Katsuki scoffing and shifting further away as their train pulled in, "you're delusional. You know that Pumpkin face?"
"Sure, sure, Kacchan."
"Don't call me that… shut it for a while too," he ordered as the doors slid opened, both climbing on and finding a place to stand, holding onto handles above to avoid loosing balance as the transport takes off a few minutes later.
As expected, they get a few looks as well as compliments on their sports festival performances. A few younger kids inquiring on her current outfit. Free using the opportunity to tease Bakugo indirectly and ignoring his no talking rule responding to others.
--
Once off the train, the butterfly girl trails behind her quiet companion, eyes on the sky above as she hums to the beat of an older rock song and making a stop at the small convenience store on Akamori St, in the same strip mall as their gym. Inside, Katsuki loads a small basket with various items and gives it to the girl to pay at the till. Being a good sport, she does so without complaint and carries the bags the rest of the distance to his house, which is only a few blocks north of Izuku's and her apartment building.
"No snooping around or going in my room, got it Brickhead?" A glare accompanying his command as he unlocked the door to go in, Free following and closing it behind after them.
"Here," tossing a pair of guest slippers by her feet and then taking the bags further into the house donning his own.
Again, she follows, slippers on and bag left on a coat hook in the foyer. "Your mom has good taste," sunrise taking in the beautifully furnished living room, its shelves lined with books and walls decorated tastefully with family photos and art. The redhead treading closer to admire a few and unable to deny he's ridiculously photogenic and handsome in all.
How is that possible?
"You're snooping," ash-blonde at her shoulder, close enough for the female teen to get another whiff of his body-wash, reminding her to take a peek in the shower later.
I need to know what it is…
"I haven't touched a thing. Ya telling me I gotta close my eyes the entire time?" She drawled, shifting to face him. "What first, Firecracker?"
"Dinner. Stuffs in the fridge. Make something spicy and don't screw up," no room for question as he moves off and disappeared upstairs.
So, I get to navigate this kitchen on my own, Free mused, shuffling around and opening the fridge, then pantry to see what she has to work with. Hmm… potatoes, spicy peppers, onions, garlic, vegetable stock, hot sauce, cheese and eggs… everything I need for a cheesy spicy breakfast hash.
By the time Katsuki returns downstairs freshly showered and changed, his guest in the midst of chopping her remaining vegetables and adding oil to the skillet to fry them, potatoes already boiling in a pot to be partially cooked and drained to add in later. "What is this?"
"Breakfast for dinner. I think ya'll like it."
"We'll see… I'm surprised you actually know how to cook."
"A compliment and insult rolled into one, ya really know how ta make a girl feel special," drawling sarcastically amid stirring the food and cleaning up the island simultaneously.
"The fuck did you hear a compliment in there?"
"Ya admitted to me being able to cook."
Bakugo unable to deny that, instead choosing not to comment and moving away, throwing himself over the couch and turning on the t.v. while she finishes cooking. Their dinner ready within twenty minutes, everything soaking in the sick other than the skillet, full of cheesy, hot sauce covered hashbrows, soft-fried eggs to the side to add on top as a finisher.
Free dishes up two plates and setting them on the counter, not sure if he wants to sit side-by-side at the island, or at the table. "Dinners cooked, honey," she can't help but tease, earning a glare and middle finger as he gets up to join her.
Katsuki internally impressed at the appearance of her American dish and dropping down on one of the stools, "grab those drinks from the store."
The Texan doing so and holding both out to let him choose which one he wants and settling for the other, prior to sitting down next to the explosive male. "Hope ya like it."
Astonishingly, he has nothing bad to say about the food, rather liking it more than he'd ever care to acknowledge. Especially to the maroon-haired girl herself. Though, she's well-aware of it when he gets a second helping and shooting her an expression that threatens first-degree murder if she says anything.
As he works on that, she gets up to pack away the rest in Tupperware and storing it in the fridge, ahead of washing, drying and replacing everything where she found it. "There's enough left for your parents if they come home hungry. Do they like spicy as much as ya do?" retrieving his utensils and plate now that he's done, finishing off the last of the cleaning and raising a brow at him.
"Mom could handle it, Dad not so much."
"Ya get your looks from her too, huh?" The male teen practically a carbon copy of the ash-blonde, red-eyed women from the family photos.
"I guess."
"So, what now boss? Laundry? Sweeping? Washing the floors? Dusting?"
"All of the above. Baskets are at the top of the stairs, laundry room is down that hall, same with all the cleaning supplies. I'll be in my room. Don't go putting your nose where it doesn't belong." Bakugo already halfway up the stairs again, leaving her to another two hours of miscellaneous work.
Of course, between that time, Free breaks his one rule while the last load of clothes dry, her fingers pulling photos albums off of the shelves and scanning through them, giggling at some of the pictures and snapping her own of the best ones. When satisfied she starts folding the dried items and restacking them in their respective baskets. Just as she works on the last load, which happens to be Katsukis', the front door opened, both older Bakugo's walking into their living room to find a total stranger.
"Hello…" the man says, expression friendly, yet confused.
The women on the other hand takes in the household appearance and the female teens uniform, pursing her lips. "My son put you up to all this?"
"To be fair, I got myself into this with my big mouth and poor betting choice."
"Betting? Katsuki was betting?"
Quickly, the Maroonette shakes her head, "that was all me Mrs.Bakugo. I have this ability to get under his skin impeccably and baited him into it… which I'm now paying for, so lesson learnt."
"You're the American Transfer, right? With the butterfly Quirk?"
"Free Hastings," putting down the pair of All Might themed boxers and closing the distance to shake their hands.
"I'm Mizuki and this is my husband Masaru."
"It's nice to meet you. Your house is beautiful."
"Thank you. Did that brat give you a tour or abandon you to chores for video games?" The women glancing to the stairway and considering dragging her son down by the ear for being so damn rude to his guest.
"He told me to not snoop around, but I couldn't resist looking at the photo albums on the shelf. I hope you don't mind."
"Of course not! I don't even remember the last time either of us looked through those… he was a cute kid, right?"
"Very," Free agreed, "nowadays he's quite handsome. I see where he gets his good looks."
Masaru chuckling at the girls cliché line, "I bet comments like those are exactly what gets my son riled up, huh?"
"Pretty much. 95% of the time I just can't help the stuff that leaves my mouth when he's around," Texan openly admits.
Maybe be 99% at this rate.
"Have you eaten, Hastings-chan?" Mr. Bakugo asked, already in the midst of digging through the cupboards and pulling out a cookie jar.
"I actually made dinner earlier... there's some leftovers in the fridge if you are, sir. Though it's got a kick to it."
"He made you cook too?" Mizuki's eye twitching when the teenager nods. "I'm going to kick that brats ass."
"To be fair dear, she fully acknowledged she's the one to blame for this," the husband coming over to offer them both cookies, Free gladly accepting and humming when biting into it.
"This is soo good. Thank you."
"Let me pack you a few to apologize for Katsuki's lack of manners," the mother already in the midst of grabbing a small container and loading it up.
A few?
"Oi, Brickhead, you better be done," the teenage male shouts down, footsteps coming down the stairs.
Right, Free swiftly returning to his pile of clothes and picking up the boxers again to fold. "Almost. Just folding these adorable All Might boxers."
"Fuck sakes," he says in rounding the corner, until laying sight on his parents. "Shit."
"Shit is right you brat!" Mrs.Bakugo putting her son in a headlock and knocking his skull with her fist a few times. "Who the hell invites a pretty girl over to do all their chores?"
"Let go hag!" Katsuki breaking free and smacking her hands away. "She owed me! And she's not pretty, she's annoying as hell."
"Why can't I be both?" the redhead chimed in, raising a brow at him and putting down the last folded article of clothing. "You seem to pull it off, Prettyboy."
"Prettyboy?" Mizuki snickering at the nickname, while her sons' eye twitched.
"Time for you to get lost," his words directed at the girl, who can't help smiling at his irritation.
"Sure, ya don't want me to put all this away," motioning to the baskets. "I'd loveeee to see if ya got anymore All Might themed undies," wiggling her eyebrows and getting the reaction she wants when a few small explosions light up his palm.
The males mother lightly cuffing him on the back of his head, "what'd I say about using your Quirk inside my house?"
"I ain't going to break anything, so knock it off," the explosive teen moving away from his parent and over to grab his laundry basket. "Grab the other one and let's go," not waiting for a response before he trudged to the hallway where the stairs are and waiting for her.
Free followed, shooting a small smile to his parents in passing, hauling the load and carrying it up to the top, where he tells her to leave it and then get lost. "Ya sure ya don't want me to tuck ya in first and give ya a goodnight kiss?"
"Hah. I rather choke to death, Pumpkin Face."
"Such sweet words… I'm just gonna use the bathroom and I'll get outta here after," catching a glimpse of the shower from her current position and ducking around Katsuki to enter it, closing the door. The first thing she does is reach for the green bottle on the cubby inside the tub, scanning the name and giggling.
I knew it. Cinnamon, brown sugar and apple body wash… that's why he literally smells like a snack!
Moving on, she uses the facilities and washes her hands, exiting afterwards to find an empty hallway. She ponders peaking inside the room with the skull on its door, but knows that's a breech of serious privacy. Rooms are personal and being invited in is necessary, not something to force. So, instead she returns downstairs, nodding at the parents who prepare a pot of tea together, "I'll be getting out of your hair now. I hope you have a goodnight."
"It's late, Katsuki will walk you home when you're ready. There's no need to rush either, hun. Would you like a cup first?" Mizuki hoping to get to know Free Hastings a little better. Her son never inviting a girl over before today, nonetheless one with enough spunk to handle his brash attitude.
"I'd love too… but, I think I'm off the clock and the last thing I want to do is evoke anymore work. Thank you though."
Masaru nods, "he can be tenacious."
"I don't mind. I've heard I can be pretty annoying," referring to his earlier comment, both mother and father chuckling.
"I'll go grab the brat to walk you," the ash-blonde women leaving to do so, redhead unable to stop her in time.
"Ah… that probably won't go over well," she says to the older man.
"My wife always wins," raised voices heard upstairs and muffled explosions, then stomping, along with muttered swears from both parties as they join the other two again.
"Let's go," Katsuki growled.
"Wait," Free grabbing his wrist to halt him as he passes by. "Don't worry about it. Izuku said he'd walk me home; I was just about to message him."
"Hah?! The nerd? If something did happen, that loser couldn't do shit. Stop wasting my time," the male teen breaking from her hold and stuffing his hands in his pockets, continuing for the door.
We both know that's b.s, but if not saying anything gets me a few more minutes with ya, I'll shut up just this once…
"It was nice meeting you," American politely bowing a tiny bit, even if it's piss poor and half-assed.
I tried.
They both smiled, "come back anytime," the brunet put forward.
"Or don't," Katsuki called out without falter from the foyer.
"Our son doesn't bring anyone over. It's nice to know he's not entirely hopeless when it comes to making friends."
"She's not," more input from the hall.
"Such a charmer," Free winking at the couple and taking the container of cookies from the womens' hands. "Good thing tenacity seems to be a mutual trait we share or I'd be offended by that."
"Do you ever shut up, Brickhead? One more word and you're on your own."
The Texan rolls her eyes and nods another time at the pair, receiving a friendly farewell and lifting a hand in goodbye and joining their son. Her classmate impatiently tapping his foot while she exchanges slippers for shoes and slipping on her blazer and bag.
Quietly, they exit the single-family household, him ahead of her, shoulders slouched and feet heavy on the concrete. "Ya really feel that way about me?"
"I don't feel shit about you," no hesitation in his remark.
"Right… well… for the record, I consider ya a friend."
"You would, cause your simple."
She snorts, "apparently we have different definitions of what that word means."
"Let's hear it then, simpleton."
"Ya think it means stupid, right?" Her question rhetorical. "I consider someone simple when their incapable of understanding feelings and comprehending compassion. A simpleton is someone who can't intellectually and physically acknowledge or validate others worth because their lacking the ability to."
"Do all Americans make up their own definitions?" He quipped over his shoulder, a sneer accompanying it.
Free sighing, "I don't know why I bother wasting my breath... ya still got a lot of growing and maturing ta do," her comment bringing him to a stop.
"The fuck does that mean," bomber turning around with a glare.
"That you're an immature teenage boy and maybe I am simple for not noticing it sooner," she says amid passing him and checking both sides of the roads prior to crossing, her building already within sight. "I can manage on my own here on out."
"Hold up, Pumpkin Face," Katsuki grabbing the small wrist and forcing the maroonette to halt. "I'm not a fucking a kid."
"Coulda fooled me," deep-citrine swirling with fierceness in locking gazes with burning-carmine. "It's clear to me now."
"Hah?"
"That no matter what I do or say, ya won't give me the time of the day. Ya think ya better than everyone else and maybe ya are… for now," copying him in breaking out of his grasp and crossing her arms. "Not forever if ya truly believe the only way to become the best is to do it on your own. All Might is who he is, cause of the support and love of his close friends and fans."
"I'm going to surpass him."
"Whatever ya say, Firecracker. Good luck in that," sarcasm her best weapon at the moment, disappointment long settled in her gut, the Texan about done with this day and conversation. "Anything else?" Referring to the bet.
His eye twitching, "no. We're done here."
"Agreed," she drawled, dropping their eye contact and shifting to finish the remaining trek alone.
Why do I always give people the benefit of the doubt?
Bakugo watching the redhead walk away, thoughts of stopping her another time to say something else, yet denying himself of it, why the fuck does everything she say get under my skin?
--
In a manner of five minutes, Free Hastings is unlocking the door to enter in the modest apartment, her mother on the couch reading over documents, but pausing when examining the teenager's appearance. "What… are you wearing?"
"I'll explain later. I'm gonna shower first."
The middle-aged women furrowing her brow in question and deciding to put the work away for now, focusing on making a large ice cream sundae to share and topping it off with two spoons. Just setting it down on the coffee table as her daughter comes from the hallway, hair wrapped in a towel and cellphone I'm hand.
To Freckles: I'm home, Kacchan was forced to walk me.
From: Sugarplum: Attachment.
Free clicking it and laughing when a short video of her cheer from earlier plays, clearly shot from a window a few stories up.
To Sugarplum: You're missing the best part of it all. I'll send you a version with sound.
From Freckles: Bakugo-san might be the only person able to make that happen.
"Forget the phone, before the ice cream melts, kiddo."
Ice cream, sunrise lifting to find Elle Hastings waiting on her, their favorite dessert and classic conversation snack ready to be consumed and enjoyed. "That obvious, huh?"
"I know ya Littlebug."
Joining her mother on the couch and stuffing a large spoon of chocolate-chip mint in her mouth, the redhead humming in delight. "I'm an idiot ma… I getta ahead of myself and I run my mouth without restraint."
"You get that from your grandfather… your uncle is much of the same. Always putting his heart on the line for others too," Elle taking a bite of vanilla covered in chocolate sauce. "It doesn't make you an idiot… rather it proves how strong and caring you are, Free."
"Right… in that case I can beat up Uncle Might without breaking a sweat," she mused bitterly, though another spoonful of frozen sweetness eases the feeling somewhat.
"Speaking of, I have yet to see him since arriving in March. I think I'll have to make an unexpected visit to the school and catch him off guard if that's ever going to change." The mother of one already planning a day to pop in and corner her ex-lover.
"He is very well practiced in making a fast and quiet escape when necessary. He does it all the time after Heroics."
"Comes with years of being a pro. Anyway, please do explain the cheer uniform with the cute bomber's face on it. What'd ya do?"
"Lost a bet. The usual foot in mouth crap I'm well-versed in."
"Hahahaha, now that's what makes ya an idiot. Ya never bet unless certain of the outcome."
"The whole point of a bet is risking not being certain, but potentially rewarded if it comes through."
"I've never lost one in my life Bug. Pretty sure I know what I'm talking about."
"Sure, sure Ma… by the way, I was thinking of inviting the girls from my class over Saturday night for a sleepover. Think we can manage five teenage girls for a soiree?"
"Pshhhhhh, ya have how many male cousins? Five girls studying to be heroes will be a piece of cake," Elle tugging on the towel covering her teenagers' head and freeing the damp maroon curls. "Though I'm in Hosu meeting with a client during that day, but should be back in time for a few hours of fun."
"What's this case about?" Free asks, curious to know what her mother is working on now.
"That's confidential kid… but as usual, it's messed up."
"Nothing ya haven't faced already."
"Unfortunately, there's always going to be a lot worst than what we went through Buggerfly…" 40 year-old pulling the love of her life closer to cuddle up. "You're literally trying to make a career in intervening in such things… we're just lucky to have some of the best involved in your well-being. Others aren't as fortunate."
"I wanna change that."
"Ya won't be able to save everyone."
"I know… but I can try, right?"
"As long as ya never give up, trying is all we can keep doing if we're to change anything worth while in the long run."
"Persistence, passion and utter stubbornness. Good thing I'm head strong in all of those, huh?"
"A perfect combination for a hero, if I say so myself," Elle and Free laughing, the rest of the evening spent much of the same way; snuggled up, casual conversation passing between them concerning both school and work life.
--
Both Friday and Saturday classes go as usual, every student deciding on their internship for the next week, their train tickets, costumes and the rest sorted out for the Monday after. Free Hastings listing only The Nighteye Agency as her sole choice, knowing it's right from the feeling in her gut.
However, before that, a planned sleepover for the girls of 1.A at her house to celebrate what's hopefully a successful and informative week interning at an agency. The girls beyond excited when the last bell rings Saturday afternoon, announcing the start of their festivities.
"FREEZY! I can't wait to see your place!" Mina bouncing over, Ochaco too, as Tsuyu, Jirou and Momo take their time.
"Me too! Deku you're going to come too right?"
Izuku freezing up at the sudden attention, "w-what?!" his face flushing at the thought of being with all the girls and fluttering.
"She means to the station and walk home, Freckles," the redhead giggling. "We'd never force ya into a night of blood rituals under the moonlight… unless ya into that sorta thing… we do need a virgin male for the spell to work." Numerous reactions happening at once, exactly like intended , Free throwing her head back in laughter at it all.
Most of the girls' gasping and blushing, prior to giggling as they've gotten somewhat use to the American's sense of humor. Usually saved for the locker room to avoid another scolding from Aizawa, who always seems to be napping somewhere hidden when something both inappropriate and funny crosses her mind.
Dark Shadow pokes out of Fumikage and giving a thumbs up, "sounds fun." The bird-headed teen scandalized by his sentient words and gawking.
"Dark Shadow!"
Minoru practically malfunctions, while his partner in crime considers it, if it means being alone with all six girls at once.
My own harem, Denki picturing it.
Izuku covers his bright red face, while the ash-blonde in front of him blinks his wide ruby-reds slowly, as if stunned by the entire idea.
"I'm just kidding… I like ya too much ta do that," Free says to her neighbor, ahead of shifting to the explosive male. "Ya busy tonight, Prettyboy?"
"Ooooo," Denki and Mina simultaneously calling out, more laughter spreading through the class.
"TIME TO DIE!" Katsuki grabbing her collar and lifting a palm in threat.
"That's what ya should request written on your gravestone for 80 years from now. It's both literal and so very ya, Firecracker." Texan entirely unfazed as this has become a regular occurrence.
Unnoticed by most, Hitoshi Shinso wandered in silently to collect what was promised for the week to study, his tutor occupied by her internship all week and likely not available for a real session; meaning notes will have to at the moment.
Mezo nods quietly to the lavender-haired male, who watched the exchange between the bomber and morpher with piqued curiosity, yet only for a couple of seconds; the Brainwashing teen preferring to get in and out as swiftly as possible, not interested in small talk or making friends. "Do you mind?" his question directed at Bakugo, who speaks without thinking.
"Mind your own," carmine meeting amethyst, "shi—" eyes going blank.
"Let her go."
Free instantly released, head tilting to her rescuer, "ya got great timing, Sugarplum. Here," turning back to her bag sitting on the desk and pulling out a notebook for him. "If ya got any questions, just shoot me a text."
"Aa," his purple eyes scanning the contents, surprise crossing his face. "At least your Kanji is good."
"Ya trying to pick a fight about my speech?" Hitoshi smirking, which winds the maroonette up for some reason. "I'd like ta hear anyone here have an entire conversation in English with me and not screw up."
"You're not going to make any bets on that, right?" his tone oddly playful, which throws her off again. "Till next time," the general studies student lifting a hand in farewell and exiting without another word.
"This is the first time I've seen anyone leave Free speechless. Ribbit."
"Right?! Me thinks there's a new ship brewing," the pinkette already jumping to conclusions.
Click, "that damn Ube is going to get it." Katsuki released from the brainwasher's Quirk and growling as he finishes preparing to leave.
"Ya said that last time too," the American girl remarked, back to her regular wit, the ash-blonde shooting the annoying redhead a fierce glare.
"Shall we go, Free-chan?" Momo suggested, wanting to stop another potential blow-up in it's tracks, vibrant-orange shifting to calm- charcoal, the female in question nodding.
"Let's do it! We got lots to fit it. First thing is take-out, so let's decide on a place on the way to the station," Texan slipping on her bag and linking fingers with the creator to lead the way.
"I'll pay if you let me come!" Kaminari throws out as their leaving, receiving a solid, 'no thanks' from every single girl, Midoriya trailing along. "HE'S SO LUCKY!" Electric blonde dropping to his knees dramatically as they exited.
--
"So, I was thinking maybe Soba? I saw Shoto with some at lunch and I've been craving it since!" Free throws out while changing out her shoes in the first year foyer.
"That sounds good. I can't recall the last time I had it either," Jirou said, hums of agreement coming from the others.
"I have a recommendation, if so," the group just realizing Todoroki is amid them too when he speaks up.
"Didn't ya see ya there Elsa. Lay it on us," redhead pulling out her phone to enter in the map.
"It's YumYum Soba, in Shizuoka Prefecture. It's on the corner of Nara and 193rd."
"Really? That's so close to home," she hummed. "Ya wanna join us? Izuku's coming too, so ya won't be the only guy."
"B-but I thought it was girls only," the freckled teen fretting.
"For the soiree, but dinners' an open invitation to those who don't prank us," nods of endorsement from the girl party.
"Okay," Shoto not needing much persuading, anything to avoid returning home earlier than necessary.
"Great, let's go!" Ochaco pumping her fist in the air in a cheer, Mina's arm linked through the gravity girls as the eight teenagers begin their trek to the train station. Free offering an ear bud to Kyoka, who gladly accepts it and puts it in her ear. The two singing along to the rock station playing through the cellphone while Midoriya, Asui, Yaoyorozu and Todoroki talk about their choices for the internship, making up the tail end of their assemble.
--
At YumYum 45 minutes later.
"Let me get this straight… ya gonna intern with Endeavor?" The Texan drawled at the half-hot-half-cold male, over her glass of ice tea.
"I need to work one controlling my fire… who better than him?" Shoto's point valid, but still, Free can't help but grimace.
"It makes sense. Learn from the best… even if he's an asshole, he's a successful one," her hand patting Izuku in on the back when he swallows his drink wrong from her use of language.
"You're going to the Nighteye Agency, correct?"
"Yup! It's only an hour away too, so I can come home every evening."
"You prefer to stay close?"
"For my Ma."
"We're going to meet her tonight, right Freezy?" Mina asked from between Kyoka and Tsuyu, the three munching on some appetizers.
"She said she'll be home after 9 as her train comes in at 840 I believe. Let's make sure to get all the mischief out beforehand, or she'll put a stop to it."
"Truth and Dare!" Ochaco says.
"Prank calls to Pikachu and the Twerp!"
"Make-overs!" Pinky adds. "Dance party too!"
"I've got a great Playlist for that," Kyoka put forth, just as their full order arrived, the conversation continuing over dinner, both boys learning a lot about what kinds of activities girls get up to when together.
--
As planned, the six girls follow through on most of their chosen ventures, having completed all except for The Princess and the Frog, which is how they're ending the evening, along with snacks and facial masks.
Currently, they're in the midst of changing into Pj's, a true testimony on how different they are in style as every teen rocks something different. Momo is her silky, red set. Mina in a cute yellow nighty with frills. Ochaco rocking shorts and a tank top with her family's construction logo on it. Tsuyu in a set of frogs covered cotton ones. Jiro in a long band t-shirt and plaid bottoms. Free in the midst of slipping on a set from Uncle Might, that has his face on the top and 'I am Here,' written all over the shorts.
"Freezy?"
The redhead humming and glancing over her shoulder at the golden-eyed girl. "Wassup?"
"Uh… I was just wondering if… it's okay to ask about the scars on your back?"
"Oh… of course. Though it's kinda depressing… but we do have a ton if ice cream, so if there's any time to do it, now would be best," she admitted, honestly surprised it's taken this long for any of them to bring it up.
"You don't mind?" Kyoka curious since seeing them the first time in the locker room.
The American shaking her head, "nah. I figured it'd come up eventually and it's not like I'm tryin to hide it."
"Should we sit?" Momo feeling this is going to be tragic and overwhelming, having noticed a lot of little things about the transfer student, most signifying a rough past.
Motioning them to follow her to the living room, Free scours the freezer for the four pints of various flavors and grabbing a handful of spoons, prior to dropping it on the coffee table and sitting down on the sectional by the gravity girl. "The truth is, when I was 10 I was legally abducted by my father, Kiba Smith, Aka the villain known at the Fanged Charmer." Utter shock and confounding crossing every one of her friends faces. "He made it is goal to sire a child from multiple women to one day raise a daughter worthy of his name. His Quirk allowed him to charm his victims into signing their children's rights without even realizing... no one knowing until it was too late and I was long gone."
"Free-Chan," the creator covering her mouth in horror.
"When I first arrived, there was 3 of us. The two others my half-sisters, who were only a few months or so older than I… eventually 7 of us by the time I was 12."
"He kidnapped seven of you?" Mina flabbergasted at what's she's hearing.
"He was a monster... his Quirk was our worst nightmare… it meant not having a choice in anything."
"So, the scars…" Kyoka trailing off quietly, not exactly sure if she wants to know at this rate.
"Were punishment for refusing to follow orders… though I'd have taken a thousand more if it prevented what happened to my sisters," Texan's throat tightening at the thought of what she's about to share. "They never made it out. Just me."
"They—"
"—died. Yes."
"Free, how are you… how can you… I mean… you're so… I would have never thought you went through something like that," Mina unable to stop the tears for her classmate.
"I am the way I am because of them… I have to be, or I'd wallow in self-pity. Only took over 700 therapy sessions to get here."
Ochaco wiping a few stray tears from her round cheeks as she asked the next thing, "how long were you—"
"—over four years."
"What about your father? Ribbit." Tsuyu holding out a box of kleenex with her tongue, everyone grabbing a few.
"He died the same night I burnt the house down… to be honest, it's all a blur... All Might showed up, but by then it was already too late."
"Too late?"
"I was already broken… I..."
I'm a murderer.
"I'm responsible for that monster's death. I just snapped and couldn't stop… not until all light left his eyes and every negative feel dispersed, leaving nothing but a hallow hole in my chest… forever blackened by him."
"Oh, Free," Momo moving to sit on the empty space next to the maroonette and wrapping her arms in a tight hug. The other four copying Yaoyorozu's actions and in term creating a giant bear hug, which elicits a half-laugh-half- sob for the girl at the center.
"I know it's a lot to take in… and ya might look at me differently… anyone would."
"No way! If anything, it only proves how strong you really are, Free," Ochaco stated, the others concurring.
"She's right. Ribbit."
"We only love you more now, Freezy! The good, the bad and the ugly! Okay?" The pinkette declared. "Not that anything about you is ugly! You're beautiful!!" Laughter replacing the sorrow and somber vibe, Kyoka first to let go and lifting the spoons up.
"Should we break these open now?" referring to the icy treat to wash away the rest of the sadness.
"Let's do it!" Utensils passed around and pints of sweetness opened, the hostess searching for the right streaming app to play their selected film and starting it.
--
Midway through, Ell Hastings arrives to find her daughter and friends snuggled up on the couch, layered in blankets and stuffed full of ice cream. "Hey, Littlebug. Bugs friends," the single mother hanging her coat and dropping her brief case on the floor.
"Heya Ma," Free sitting up and crawling from between the pile of girls to greet her mom. "Everything go okay in Hosu?"
"Better than expected… anyway, introduce me," the woman nudging her daughter forward and following go where the others lounge.
"Girls, this is Elle Hastings, my Mom. Ya can call her the Wicked Witch of the West or Mama Elle. Up ta ya," the 17-year-old barely dodging a smack upside the head and snickering. "Just joking Maaaa."
Predictably, Yaomomo is the first to stand and bow in introduction, "thank you for allowing us to stay over, Hastings-San. I'm Yaoyorozu Momo."
"So polite… my daughter didn't force ya here against your will, right?"
"It's obvious Freezy gets her sense of humor from you, Mama Elle!" Mina next to step forward, "I'm Mina!"
"So pink! Your eyes are my favorite color, Mina-chan," Elle shaking the girl's' hand, the other three following the pinkette's example.
Soon, questions about what the girls got up to while she was away asked, Free honest in answering, never one to hide anything from her mother. Even when bordered on risky and slightly chaotic. Their night coming to an end sometime well after midnight, facials and heart-to-hearts to finish it off, the girls of 1.A passing out on the makeshift bed of mattresses in the butterfly girl's room.
--
Sunday rolling around only to find the group in bed till past 10, eventually waking up the world and working together to prepare brunch. Neither host nor guests wanting the day to end, but making the most of it until it does, promises of more quality bonding time and another sleepover happening in the near future.