Insatiable

Disclaimer: I do not own My Hero Academia.

Pairings: Midoriya x Rodi, Rodi x Pino, Midoriya x Eri, Pino x Eri, Midoriya x Rodi x Pino x Eri

Plot: Midoriya and Eri introduce Rodi and Pino to their polycule.

(This chapter takes place after Metamorphosis.)

Midoriya - Pan/Queer (currently 37)
Quirk: Sight (foresight that fluctuates depending on actions taken in the present)

Eri - Bi (currently 29) (Mother of two daughters: Ana is 5, Izzy is 4.)
Quirk: Rewind (able to rewind time to heal injuries, as well as view echoes of past events and memories)

Rodi - Pan (currently 34)
Quirk: Incognito (enhanced stealth, persuasion, manipulation, and physical abilities)
Former Alias: Wren (The Lovebirds)

Pino - Queer (currently 31)
Quirk: Birds of a Feather (avian traits including flight, enhanced senses, and the ability to communicate psychically with members of her chosen flock)
Former Alias: Mimid (The Lovebirds)

Clandestine

Midoriya x Eri x Rodi x Pino

Part Two: Credence

Eri gasped softly as she tugged Midoriya closer, arching against him as he canted his hips slowly, Midoriya groaning in satisfaction at the sensation of her clenching around him. "Fuck, baby…"

She shivered pleasantly as he kissed down her neck, his breath hot against her throat as he held her close, keeping his movements gentle and slow. She bit her lip and whined softly, carding her fingers through his dark curls and gasping as he moaned deeply, gradually increasing his pace.

"Zuku…" She murmured sweetly, and Midoriya peeked up at her with pleasure-clouded eyes, a hint of emerald flickering through deep malachite. "Kiss?"

Midoriya exhaled a soft chuckle, lifting himself up and giving her what she wanted. Their mouths came together gently, at times more breath than anything, and Eri shifted her legs around his waist, her heels resting against the rise of his ass, searching his eyes as she petted across his freckles tenderly.

"I love you." He whispered, and she blinked up at him slowly, her long pale hair resting all around her, splayed across the disheveled pillows and creamy sheets. She hummed and drew him down to her once more, kissing him slowly, breathing out little pleasured gasps as he rocked into her slow and deep.

"Love you too, darling…"

Midoriya felt the bed dip, a small, soft hand gliding up his spine as Pino settled into bed beside them, kissing Midoriya's shoulder and twittering softly as she leaned closer with a teasing smile.

"You two are beautiful together."

Another dip at his other side, and this time the hand that reached out to touch was larger, warm and heavy, settling on Midoriya's nape before tugging him up into a kiss.

Eri inhaled a trembling breath, watching as Midoriya and Rodi kissed, blushing brightly when Midoriya continued to rock his hips, fucking into her slowly. Pino's eyes were on her face, watching her reactions with an impish smile, and as she leaned closer her vibrant pink hair cascaded all around them, her fingertips petting over Eri's burning cheeks before she slanted their mouths together with a quiet sigh.

"Feelin' good?" Rodi husked against Midoriya's ear, and Midoriya shivered pleasantly at his tone, searching his storm-grey eyes.

"Yeah…" He murmured softly, pressing another kiss to Rodi's lips before trailing over his jaw. "Want you to feel good too…"

Rodi grinned and hummed his approval, his hand shifting to trace down Midoriya's spine. "This okay?" He asked, trailing his hand over Eri's ankle to settle on Midoriya's ass, squeezing a cheek teasingly before his fingers drifted further.

At the first press of his fingers Midoriya's breath hitched and his cheeks dusted pink, but soon after he gave a little nod, granting Rodi permission to continue. Rodi claimed another kiss before shifting out of sight, and Midoriya refocused on the other two in bed with them, watching with an affectionate smile as Eri and Pino kissed, their fingers twined together as they held one another's hands atop the sheets.

"Baby?" Midoriya called softly, and Pino drew back to allow Eri to meet his eyes, her breathing uneven and lips parted as she blinked up at him slowly. "You ready for more?"

She hummed and nodded, smoothing her palm up Midoriya's chest, still holding Pino's hand with her other as she rolled her hips up to meet his own. "Please, Zuku. You feel amazing. Let me feel all of you."

Midoriya closed his eyes for a moment to center himself as he felt Rodi's fingers press into him, spreading lube across his skin before delving deeper, thrusting slowly for several long moments then adding a third.

Rodi kissed the dip of his spine, his free hand petting over Midoriya's hip and up the bend of Eri's leg, squeezing her thigh gently. "You two set the pace, I'll match you."

Midoriya exhaled shakily and nodded, meeting Eri's eyes briefly before looking to Pino. Her expression was heated with arousal, her cheeks flushed a pretty shade of pink and her azure irises glittering. She reached out and traced over Midoriya's chest with her fingertips, eventually meeting Eri's hand resting over Midoriya's heart and fanning her fingers as well.

"Give her what she wants, Izuku." Pino searched his eyes, shifting up slightly to nuzzle her nose against his cheek, her lips trailing across his freckles. "I want to witness your face in rapture as you twine into one."

Her words shuddered through him in a wave of heat, and he groaned softly as he ducked his head, bracing his hands on either side of Eri's shoulders as he truly started to move. Eri cried out eagerly and arched beneath him, tightening her legs and locking her ankles against his lower back, Rodi urging them on while pressing his fingers in deeper and curling them slightly, Midoriya's entire body jerking as he cried out desperately.

"There! There, Rodi - fuck!"

"Yeah?" Rodi husked encouragingly, driving his fingers against that spot again, matching Midoriya's quickening thrusts. "Yeah, you like that? You want more?"

"Yes, please! Fuck, I need-!"

"I've got you."

Rodi licked across his upper lip, fucking into Midoriya every time he rocked back, gripping his hip tightly and angling his fingers deeper, pressing in a fourth before curling them in tandem. Midoriya jerked and practically howled, dipping down to kiss Eri hotly, bucking into her roughly while grasping at the sheets, Eri squealing and curling her toes as he quickly brought her to the edge.

Pino watched with a heavy gaze, her breathing erratic as Eri tightened her hold on her hand, Pino squeezing back her fingers and trilling softly. "Good girl. That's it, little dove." She combed her fingers through Eri's tousled hair lovingly, her heartbeat fluttering against her ribcage. "Feel him deep within you, as surely as you feel yourself. Let him encompass you completely; revel whilst he devours you whole."

Eri cried out in earnest, her voice rising higher with each deep thrust. When she finally came she screamed and convulsed, flailing against them, Midoriya slowing his movements into a more forgiving cadence, Pino twittering and lifting Eri's hand to kiss across her knuckles sweetly.

It only took a slight twist of Rodi's wrist to have Midoriya tumbling over the edge, Midoriya's mouth falling open into a silent scream as his hips jerked against Eri's and he spilled inside her in hot, thick bursts. She moaned contentedly at feeling his release, her legs loosening and falling open on either side of his hips, Midoriya thrusting shallowly for a few moments longer as he rode out his high, Rodi's fingers curling gently inside of him.

Dimly Midoriya was aware that Rodi and Pino were changing their positions on the bed, and as Rodi tugged him to the side and kissed at his nape Midoriya relaxed beneath him, closing his eyes and floating in the lull of afterglow.

"Izuku?" Rodi murmured against his shoulder, and Midoriya hummed a tired, curious sound. "Can I fuck you?"

"Mmh…" Midoriya nodded and stretched out against the sheets, smiling as he rubbed his ass back against Rodi's cock. "Yeah, babe. You can have me. Just, go slow…"

"I know." Rodi chuckled softly, nipping at Midoriya's shoulder teasingly while getting into position. There was the subtle sound of a condom opening, then Rodi tugged his hips up slightly, Midoriya reaching for one of the scattered pillows nearby and tugging it closer, hiding his hot face against the creamy pillowcase.

Rodi took his time, slicking his cockhead between Midoriya's cheeks teasingly for a few moments before slowly pressing inside, Midoriya gasping quietly and tightening his grip, his voice muffled against the pillow.

"Ohhh, you feel divine…" Rodi praised softly, building a slow, lazy rhythm between them, and eventually Midoriya tilted his face to the side to breathe, soft pleasured sounds escaping him. Rodi watched him with a wolfish grin, kissing across his shoulders and nipping at the curve of his neck, coaxing him back into arousal. "You're being so good for me, aren't you Izuku? You're taking my cock so well…"

"Feels good…" Midoriya gasped softly, pressing his face into the pillow and moaning low and deep. "Rodi…"

"Shh, baby…" Rodi whispered, carding his fingers through Midoriya's curls gently, smirking as he growled against his ear, "I'm gonna take such good care of you sweetheart, gonna have you seeing stars as you cum around my cock…"

"Fuck-"

Rodi chuckled as Midoriya shifted beneath him and started rocking back to meet his thrusts, whispering encouragements while smoothing his warm palms up Midoriya's sides. He rubbed soothing circles with his thumbs, kneading Midoriya's lower back as his eyes drifted to Pino and Eri, moaning deeply as he watched them with a heated gaze.

They were holding each other's eyes, their hands clasped together, both panting shakily as they moved in tandem. Pino was on top, straddling one of Eri's thighs and grinding down against her hand as Eri thrust two fingers in and out slowly, circling her pierced clit with sticky fingertips before dipping inside again. Pino was moaning eagerly, her small breasts bouncing as Eri teased her, winding her tighter, needy little chirps escaping her as Eri pressed against her piercing with her thumb.

"Keep going," Rodi murmured, Eri's blush spreading across her face as she glanced up to meet his eyes, "She's almost there. Curl your fingers up and tug them forward, don't stop 'til she starts to squirt."

Eri shivered and refocused on Pino, following Rodi's words, and immediately Pino gasped and whined noisily, closing her eyes and tossing back her head, her voice trembling as she rasped out, "Yeah, yeah! A-Aah!"

"That's it, baby girl. That's it." Rodi growled deeply, reaching over and grasping a handful of Pino's bright hair, claiming her mouth in a searing kiss. Pino continued whining into his mouth, squeezing around Eri's fingers tighter and tighter until suddenly she chirped sharply and started to squirt, Eri gasping aloud as warm liquid splattered across her stomach and spilled onto the sheets beneath them. Pino's entire body seemed electrified, frozen in place and trembling as aftershocks zinged up her spine, until finally she went limp with a breathy, sated sigh.

Rodi kissed her slow and deep, Pino wrapping her arms around his shoulders loosely and kissing him back for a long, lingering moment before drawing away, returning her attention to Eri. In like fashion, Rodi turned his attention to Midoriya, grunting softly as he quickened his movements, tugging Midoriya's hips back to meet each deep thrust.

It didn't take long until Midoriya was begging beneath him, using his knees for leverage to fuck back onto Rodi's thick cock, and Rodi hissed and leaned over him to groan against his ear, "Gonna cum for me, aren't you sweetheart? You're clenching around me so damn tight."

Midoriya's voice hitched an octave, his face buried against the pillow beneath him as he choked on a sob. "P-Please! Please, Rodi! I'm so close!"

Rodi withdrew just long enough to shove Midoriya onto his side, lifting his leg before slamming into him again, Midoriya gasping and shaking uncontrollably as he flexed his toes against the air, his face wet and his eyes swimming with tears. Rodi gentled him sweetly, leaning over him to kiss his damp cheek, bucking into him in harsh slaps. "Go on, I know you want to. Cum for me~"

Midoriya screamed and jerked beneath him, cumming across his stomach and chest in hot streaks, Rodi cursing under his breath as Midoriya clenched around him impossibly tight. He came just after, moaning in abandon as his orgasm thundered through him, setting his nerves ablaze and stealing his breath. He flopped down between Midoriya and Pino with a huff, his afterglow fizzling through him like sodapop.

Midoriya chuckled tiredly, reaching for his hand and lacing their fingers, Rodi grinning and chuckling as well, holding on tight. He felt Pino press a kiss to his shoulder, resting against him with Eri curled up at her other side.

They lay together for a while, enjoying a relaxed silence between them, then Rodi shifted and reached towards the bedside table, checking his phone for the time. "We should probably start getting ready soon." He murmured, flopping against the messy sheets again with a quiet sigh. "You said we're meeting at the park around sunset, right?"

Midoriya hummed an affirmative before adding on, "Katsuki and Eiji should be there first. They volunteered to help set up fireworks." He propped himself up a bit, flashing a teasing smile. "Hitoshi and Shouto are with the girls. They'll be bringing several dishes for dinner, but we should probably pick up something sweet for dessert?"

"I'm so looking forward to Hitoshi's cooking!" Eri sighed happily, sitting up and looking down at them with a cheery smile. "We're so excited for you to meet everyone! I can't wait to see the fireworks!"

Pino sat up beside her as well, the girls giggling softly as they climbed out of bed and started towards the shower, leaving Rodi and Midoriya to cuddle in bed a little longer. Midoriya yawned softly, tucking his face against Rodi's shoulder and breathing him in, closing his eyes and humming as Rodi slowly rubbed along his lower back and side.

Midoriya shifted to rest a hand over Rodi's steady heartbeat, then he murmured against his neck, "I care about you both so much."

Rodi chuckled softly, pressing a kiss to Midoriya's curls while wrapping his arms around him, hugging him gently. "Love you too, baby." He whispered teasingly, Midoriya tilting his face up to meet his eyes with a grin.

"Brat." Midoriya faux chided, Rodi dipping down to claim a kiss, Midoriya wrapping his arms around his neck to keep him close.

They'd been dating for just over a month now, and tonight was the first night Rodi and Pino would meet the other members of their polycule, and their daughters.

Over the past several weeks, Midoriya's Sight had gifted him glimpses of their future together, and while he was confident that Rodi and Pino were destined to share their lives with them, there was a strange reoccurrence that lingered uneasily in the back of Midoriya's mind.

Despite the closeness he felt towards Rodi and Pino, and the tender feelings that continued to grow between them, not once in all the visions he'd witnessed had he seen Bakugou as a part of their lives.

He wasn't certain what it meant, why the great tree within his Sight showed irrefutable evidence of Rodi and Pino intertwined with all the other members of their polycule, including Touya and Toga, but not Bakugou.

He hadn't spoken of it to Rodi or Pino, nor Bakugou. He wanted to wait and see how things played out during this first meeting. Perhaps this was simply something he needed to experience first-hand for whatever reason, instead of with his quirk.

Once the girls had finished with their shower, Rodi and Midoriya made their way to the bathroom together, sharing kisses now and then as they washed the events of the afternoon from their bodies, Midoriya's heart twisting and fluttering every time Rodi met his eyes.

I love him. Midoriya shivered as Rodi leaned closer, cupping Midoriya's cheek and searching his emerald eyes while petting across his freckles. I love both of them so much. Why can't I see either of them with Katsuki? What does it mean?

Rodi held his eyes for a long moment, his lips turning down into a little frown. "What are you thinking about?" He asked gently, leaning in to press their foreheads together, Midoriya exhaling a soft breath and hugging him close.

"How much you mean to me." Midoriya murmured back gently, Rodi chuckling softly beneath the sound of warm water raining down all around them.

"Nervous for us to meet everyone?" Rodi asked, adding in a teasing tone, "Don't worry, I promise I won't start hitting on your partners immediately after we're introduced."

Midoriya swatted his chest lightly, grinning and giggling, a blush highlighting his cheeks. "Oh stop that. Knowing you, you'll be flirting with everyone regardless of what you say now. After all, each of my partners are quite a catch themselves."

"I'm sure they are." Rodi chuckled, claiming a kiss before drawing back to rinse his hair, bubbles drifting down the smooth planes of his body to swirl around the drain. "Seriously though, I'll admit I'm a bit nervous myself. It's strange being on the outside, and invited in. Usually Pino and I are the ones inviting someone else into our lives, not the other way around."

Midoriya hummed his understanding, reaching out to glide his palms over Rodi's chest, settling over his strong heartbeat. He closed his eyes, inhaling through his nose then exhaling deeply, and when he glanced up again his expression was relaxed and soft. "I want you to know that no matter what happens tonight, nothing will change between us."

Rodi stilled his movements slowly, looking down at Midoriya with a mildly confused expression, then he chuckled and leaned forward to kiss Midoriya's crown, murmuring into his wet curls, "I know that, baby. What you and I have, what we share with Eri and Pino, that's between the four of us. As eager as we both are to meet your polycule, meeting them isn't going to change our relationships. With that being said," He grinned impishly as he pulled back to finish rinsing his hair, "I am looking forward to meeting your family, especially your daughters."

Midoriya's chest twisted with warmth, and he wrapped his arms around Rodi's middle, resting his cheek against his sternum. Rodi chuckled again, Midoriya closing his eyes and sighing contentedly as Rodi's arms settled around him. They held one another for a little while longer before stepping out of the shower, joining Eri and Pino in the bedroom to finish getting ready.

Within the hour they were walking hand-in-hand from the neighborhood grocery store towards the park, a small bag of groceries tucked against the bend of Rodi's arm. As the park came into view the girls ran ahead, Eri pointing excitedly towards the colorful kites flying high in the sky above them, drifting languidly across the vibrant sunset.

They walked along the trail leading further into the park, Midoriya tightening his hold on Rodi's hand as he spotted Shinsou and Todoroki at a picnic table nearby, tugging Rodi along after him with a smile.

Todoroki noticed them first, a gentle smile curving up his lips as he said something to Shinsou, and the other boy looked up as well after a moment of arranging dishes atop the checkered tablecloth, offering out his hand to Midoriya as they approached.

Midoriya let go of Rodi's hand just long enough to hug his husband before turning towards Rodi again, beckoning him closer. "Hitoshi, this is Rodi."

"It's good to meet you." Shinsou greeted, offering out his hand, Rodi setting the bag of groceries atop the table before extending his hand as well.

"Good to meet you, too. I've heard a lot about you." He looked to Todoroki next, who offered his hand as well with a little nod.

"I'm Shouto. Pleased to meet you." Todoroki said quietly, Rodi searching his mismatched eyes with a grin.

"Likewise." He replied, glancing towards Midoriya as he stepped closer to Todoroki's side, pressing a kiss to his cheek.

"How are you, babe?" Midoriya murmured sweetly, "How was patrol?"

Todoroki hummed softly, wrapping an arm around Midoriya's waist. "Patrol was good, calm and quiet." He glanced towards the playground nearby, his eyes drifting over the children running about here and there. "Fumikage texted earlier, we should see him later tonight with Tsuyu."

Midoriya's face lit up, "Oh, that's great! I'm sure she'd love to meet Pino." He glanced towards the playground as well, asking, "Where are the girls?"

"Himiko took them to watch the kites." Shinsou gestured towards the open hillside nearby, Rodi lifting a hand to shield his eyes from the bright sunset as he searched for Pino and Eri as well.

"Shall we go find them?" Rodi asked, Midoriya humming his agreement and stepping away from the table to start towards the hill, reaching out to take Rodi's hand. Shinsou and Todoroki watched them as they went, Shinsou chuckling softly as Todoroki pressed against his side, lacing their fingers gently.

"He's cute." Shinsou murmured, Todoroki giving a little nod.

"He seems familiar somehow." Todoroki added softly, looking up to meet Shinsou's eyes. "Did Izuku mention if either Rodi or Pino are heroes?"

"He didn't say." Shinsou shrugged lightly, "Perhaps you could ask once they're back? I doubt Rodi would mind, he seemed friendly enough."

Todoroki hummed softly, Shinsou pressing a kiss to his temple before turning his gaze to the skies, watching as the sun gradually dipped lower on the horizon. Once the golden-orange hues had faded into indigo, the fireworks display would begin.

As they continued further up the incline, Midoriya's face lit up and he lifted his hand, waving while calling out excitedly, "Touya! We're here!"

Rodi's eyes widened as he recognized who Midoriya was calling out to, his breath hitching a bit as he asked curiously, "Is that…?"

"C'mon!" Midoriya laughed and raced ahead, Rodi following after him with an awed smile, watching as Midoriya ran to embrace the renown villain formerly known as Dabi. Whatever Rodi had expected before when imagining meeting Midoriya's partners, it hadn't been this.

Touya lifted Midoriya and swung him lightly before allowing his feet to touch down again, Midoriya giggling and blushing as he pushed up onto his toes for a kiss, and Rodi could hear Touya murmuring affections before he glanced over and locked eyes with Rodi.

Rodi gave a little two-finger salute in greeting, offering out his hand as he stepped closer. "Hi there! Rodi Sōru, nice to meet you." He looked between Touya and Midoriya, exhaling a peal of nervous laughter as he leaned a little closer and added on in a hushed tone, "Gotta say, this is certainly unexpected. Deku and Dabi? You two are seriously dating?"

"You could say that." Touya replied with a low chuckle, shaking Rodi's hand. "Dabi feels like another lifetime. Call me Touya."

Midoriya hummed and turned to survey their surroundings, searching for a moment before asking, "Himiko? The girls?"

"They're under the kites, just there." Touya gestured further along the hilltop, and Midoriya followed his line of sight before exhaling a relieved little sigh. He reached out to Rodi, who took his hand, Touya giving them a lazy wave goodbye as Midoriya tugged Rodi along, weaving between families to reach Toga's side.

She squealed as she spotted him, turning to hug Midoriya tightly before looking up at Rodi in surprise. "My my! Who's this?"

"This is Rodi, he's my…" Midoriya paused for a moment, meeting Rodi's eyes. "Actually we haven't umm…we haven't put an official title on things just yet…"

Rodi grinned and chuckled, rubbing his nape briefly before offering Toga his hand. "We've been seeing one another recently. Sort of a swingers arrangement, I guess you'd say?"

"Swingers…?" Toga asked curiously, thinking for a moment before a playful smirk turned up her lips. "Oh my! Does that mean the pretty little bird holding hands with Eri is yours?"

Rodi laughed at that, blushing as he rubbed his nape again. "I mean, unless Eri has another girlfriend we don't know about? I'd say so."

"She's adorable!" Toga squealed excitedly, clapping her hands together. "It's so nice to meet you! I hope we'll be seeing more of the two of you!"

"I'm sure you will." Rodi grinned, looking to Midoriya as he stepped around Toga and went down on one knee, two small girls running towards him through the crowd and into his open arms.

"Daddy!"

"Dada!"

"Oh my sweet girls! How are you?" He hugged them tightly for a moment before easing his grasp, pressing a kiss to the blonde's forehead while cupping the other child's rosy cheek. "Are you two having lots of fun? Where's Meribelle and the twins?"

They both began chatting excitedly, tugging at his hands and leading him through the crowd, Rodi lingering only for a moment before following along after. Midoriya spoke with his daughters happily, laughing and smiling brightly, Rodi looking ahead to see Pino and Eri were standing together looking up at the colorful kites flying overhead, a trio of children beside them.

The oldest child turned towards Midoriya as he approached, smiling and waving with both hands, hugging his neck as soon as he crouched down again. "Izuku!"

The two smaller children looked towards them at the sound of her voice, giggling as they ran over and hugged Midoriya on either side, Midoriya flopping backwards onto the grass with a huff as the children tumbled after him.

Rodi stepped closer slowly, watching as Midoriya fussed over each of them in turn, sitting cross-legged atop the grass, his daughters sitting in his lap while the other three sat beside them.

The oldest child gathered her hair in her hands, combing through her strawberry-blonde curls with her fingers. "The fireworks will start soon! Dad said they'll begin as soon as it's dark! They're putting away the kites, see? They're starting to come down!"

"Daddy, I wanna fly kites with you!"

"Can we come back again soon? Pleeease?"

Midoriya laughed and hugged his daughters close, speaking to each of them in kind. "We'll come again and fly kites together soon, okay? Maybe we can make our own kites, and decorate them ourselves! Does that sound fun?"

Rodi watched from a short distance, the blonde girl sitting atop Midoriya's lap glancing over her father's shoulder and meeting Rodi's eyes, watching him for a long moment before asking, "Dada, who's that?"

Midoriya turned to look up at Rodi, beckoning him closer and patting the grass beside him, Rodi settling at his side and giving the children watching him a friendly wave.

"This is Rodi." Midoriya offered Rodi an affectionate smile, looking down at his daughters as he continued on, "Can you introduce yourselves, girls? Just like we always do when we make new friends?"

The blonde nodded and smiled up at her father before meeting Rodi's eyes. "My name is Izzy! I'm four!" She held up four fingers as she said so, Midoriya patting her back gently and praising her before looking to his older daughter expectantly.

She was watching Rodi curiously, and she tucked some of her pale hair away from her cheek before saying, "My name is Anastasia. My friends call me Ana." She paused, then added while holding up her small hand, "I am five years old."

She's well spoken for her age. She looks so much like Eri. Rodi smiled and replied warmly to them both, "It's very nice to meet you, your father has told me a lot about you."

Midoriya looked to the other children sitting with them next, asking the oldest child, "Would you like to introduce yourselves too?"

The girl nodded, folding her hands in her lap as she gave Rodi a friendly smile. "My name is Meribelle." She looked down at her siblings, gesturing to each of them in turn, "This is Ianthe and Icarus."

"We're this many!" Ianthe piped up immediately, holding up three fingers, looking up at her big sister before turning towards her twin.

Icarus was rocking back and forth, grinning and giggling excitedly, flopping backwards onto the grass before holding up three fingers as well. "Yeah, this many!"

"They're Touya and Himiko's children." Midoriya explained with a soft smile, Rodi's expression smoothing as he made a soft sound of understanding.

"It's very nice to meet you all." He replied, the twins watching him curiously for a moment before looking up at the kites above them, pointing and chatting together excitedly.

"Look! They're closer!"

"Yeah! Coming down!"

"Can we touch one?"

"Can we see?"

"Look, that one's huge!"

"Big one! Wanna see!"

"Alright, let's ask if we can look at them." Meribelle sighed, pushing up to her feet. The twins scrambled after her, giggling and chasing one another through the crowd, their sister following close behind.

Midoriya watched them go with a little smile, then turned his attention to his daughters once more, asking, "Are you hungry yet? Ready to go to the table?"

Before either could answer, they were distracted by movement in the crowd. "Mama!" Isabelle called out excitedly while pushing herself up, Anastasia quickly getting up as well, running across the grass to meet Eri as she and Pino approached.

"My babies!" Eri gushed as she scooped them both up, hugging them tightly for a moment before setting them both down, the girls clinging to her legs and beaming up at her happily.

"Mama, did you see? Did you see the big butterfly?"

"That one's our favorite!"

"Can we make one? Daddy says we can make our own!"

"Yeah, we wanna make butterflies!"

Eri met Midoriya's eyes, laughing as she ushered them along, Pino watching with an elated smile as they stepped closer to meet Midoriya and Rodi.

"My goodness! Making our own kites? Well…" She laughed and leaned in to kiss Midoriya's cheek, their daughters looking up at them, still clinging onto Eri. "I'm sure we can figure out how to make them. It'll be a fun new art project!"

Pino pressed close to Rodi's side, Rodi wrapping his arms around her and kissing her forehead and nose, Pino chirping and hugging him, resting her cheek to his shoulder with a happy sigh. "They're darling little dears, aren't they? So precious, so small…"

"They are." Rodi agreed with a low hum, kissing Pino's cheek before tilting her face up, searching her eyes. "Are you having a good time?"

Pino trilled and nodded, searching Rodi's eyes. "I'm having the best time. Are you?"

"Yeah, yeah this is great. I'm excited to be here with everyone." He looked to Midoriya and Eri, asking after a moment, "Are we gonna grab a bite to eat before the show begins?"

"Yeah, let's head back." Midoriya said with a nod, taking Isabelle's hand and turning to start walking back towards the picnic table where Shinsou and Todoroki were waiting. Eri took Anastasia's hand before offering her other hand to Pino, giggling as they started down the hill after Midoriya, Rodi walking along beside them.

The sun continued to settle on the horizon, and as the first hint of stars appeared in the darkening sky the fireworks display began.

-x-

Midoriya reclined back against the grass, pressed close against Shinsou's side, Todoroki and Rodi chatting together nearby while watching the fireworks bursting in bright blooms overhead. Eri and Pino were cuddled up atop a large blanket with Anastasia and Isabelle, the girls laughing and cheering excitedly at the vibrant display.

Thunderous booms and dazzling arrays of color and light cascaded down from high above, and as a bright orange and gold fountain burst directly overhead Midoriya's quirk washed over him in an all-encompassing wave, and he found himself standing alone before the mighty emerald tree that comprised the interwoven complexities of his quirk.

He breathed out shakily, his eyes widening as he took a step closer to the tree, reaching out for Shinsou's hand to ground himself in the moment. He hesitated for a while before gingerly stepping closer, watching the fireworks bursting all around the ever-expanding tree, the boughs beginning to twist and coil. Though he couldn't see or hear his husband in that moment, he felt Shinsou lace their fingers and squeeze his hand reassuringly, pressing a gentle kiss against his cheek, Midoriya's heartbeat fluttering as he tightened his hold on Shinsou's hand.

"What are you trying to show me?" Midoriya whispered, feeling his quirk tightening in his chest. "What does this mean…?"

As the branches continued to shift and coil Midoriya watched their movements closely, noticing Rodi and Pino's branches withdrawing from the boughs they'd previously twined with, receding away until they were barely touching Midoriya and Eri's, before drawing away completely. As if everything Midoriya had seen before was simply no more. As if they were no longer a part of each other's lives at all.

"I don't want that." Midoriya shook his head, pressing a hand over his chest, rubbing over the ache in his heart. "I don't understand, what could cause such a drastic change? Our futures, our lives, they're entwined. They're meant to be with us! We're meant to be together!"

Explosions detonated all around him, vibrating through his core, deafening and terrifying despite the brilliant display of fireworks echoing alongside them.

Midoriya's eyes shifted to Bakugou's branch, his heart racing, his thoughts spiraling as he searched for answers. What was his quirk trying to tell him? What meaning did this vision hold, what truths were hidden right before his very eyes?

"Katsuki?" Midoriya whispered, glancing between the emerald branches of the mighty tree, carefully reaching out to brush his fingertips against the trunk. "This happens…because of Katsuki?" He arched his brow, tears gathering in his lashes, threatening to spill down his cheeks. "But…why? Does this mean I have to choose? Does this mean…I can't be with them, and be with Katsu too?"

He felt a warm palm smooth along his forearm soothingly, opposite of Shinsou, Midoriya leaning closer to that warmth, closing his eyes as hot tears streaked down his flushed cheeks.

"I don't want to choose. Please, there has to be a way to mend this. There has to be something I can do."

"Izuku?" Midoriya felt Todoroki's lips against the curve of his ear, his boyfriend petting along his arm and whispering to him soothingly. "Izuku, you're alright. Everything's alright."

"Breathe, baby." Shinsou murmured, dipping to kiss his shoulder. "We're here, Izuku. We're right beside you. Everything's alright, love. Just breathe."

"I don't want to lose them." Midoriya pleaded, his breath hitching on a sob. "Please, they're a part of us. They're a part of our family." Midoriya tilted his face up, fireworks highlighting his wet cheeks with splashes of violet and electric blue, neon green and yellow. "I love them both so much!"

Todoroki glanced up to meet Shinsou's eyes, Shinsou frowning and watching Midoriya with concern, only able to pick up bits and pieces of his words between fireworks.

Rodi was watching with concern, shifting closer while asking hesitantly, "Is there somewhere we can take him? Until he calms down?"

"Let's take him to the fountain." Todoroki suggested, glancing towards the footpath leading through the park. "It'll be calmer there, away from all the noise."

Shinsou nodded his agreement, carefully shifting to scoop Midoriya into his arms and starting towards the path, Todoroki and Rodi relaying their intentions to Eri and Pino before following after. They walked along the shadowed path quickly, weaving between trees and past benches and tall lamps, the sounds of the fireworks display gradually lessening until Midoriya's soft sobs could easily be heard.

They reached the fountain a few minutes later, the small courtyard empty save for an elderly couple walking their dog. They settled down on the outer ring, Shinsou rubbing Midoriya's back while Todoroki knelt beside them, Rodi sitting at Midoriya's other side and taking his hand gently.

Midoriya perked up the moment they made contact, turning towards Rodi and clinging to his hand, his brow pinched and eyes glowing brightly as slow tears rolled down his ruddy cheeks.

"Please don't leave. Please, Rodi."

Rodi's eyes widened in surprise, and Shinsou and Todoroki exchanged a glance before the older hero urged quietly, "Talk to him, Rodi. Let him know you're here."

Rodi frowned a little and shifted closer, taking Midoriya's hand between his own and dipping to kiss across his knuckles, offering gently, "I'm here, Izuku. You hear me? I'm right here. I'm not going away."

"I'm sorry," Midoriya coughed and sniffed, trying to catch his breath, "Whatever happened, we can fix it. We can fix it together-" His brow pinched again, and he leaned closer to rest his forehead against Rodi's shoulder, whimpering and clinging to Rodi's fingers as he tried to form coherent thought. "I don't want to lose you. You and Pino belong here, with us. We're meant to share our lives together. I don't want anything to change."

"What did you see?" Shinsou coaxed gently, rubbing slow circles against Midoriya's lower back, trying to help him return to the present moment, Todoroki watching his expressions closely and petting along his knee.

"Izuku, can you tell us what you mean?" Todoroki asked, his tone patient and calm, guiding Midoriya in what ways he could. "Rodi and Pino are with us. They're here, they're not going anywhere." He looked over to meet Rodi's eyes, the brunette exhaling a breath of laughter and flashing a bright smile.

"Yeah! I'm right here, 'Zuku." He turned his attention to Midoriya once more, leaning closer to kiss across his cheek, petting along his wrist and forearm while lacing their fingers. "I'm here, sweetheart. I'm here. Come back to us. We're all right here beside you." He closed his eyes, turning his face to nose into Midoriya's dark curls while whispering, "I love you, darling…"

Midoriya drew a long, deep breath, then exhaled slowly, blinking away the emerald light burning in his eyes as he returned to himself, Rodi grinning and peppering his nose and cheeks with kisses.

Todoroki exhaled a sigh of relief, Shinsou's expression smoothing as he watched his husband and Rodi, Todoroki shifting to sit beside him while taking his hand, Shinsou turning to kiss Todoroki's temple lightly.

Midoriya took a few moments to collect himself before turning towards Shinsou and Todoroki, still holding onto Rodi's hand with no intentions of letting go. "There's something I haven't told you, something that's been a recurring factor in my visions since meeting Rodi and Pino."

Shinsou nodded, waiting for Midoriya to continue, Todoroki watching him with a fond, patient expression, Midoriya turning to meet Rodi's eyes.

He bit his bottom lip, trying to find the right words to say, then he exhaled quietly through his nose, and opened his mouth to speak. "I can't be certain, not without knowing what happened in your past…" He arched his brow, searching Rodi's eyes, "I think what my Sight is trying to tell me…is that something happened between you and Pino, and my other partner - Bakugou Katsuki."

Rodi nodded hesitantly, tilting his head slightly as he asked, "You said we were meeting up with him tonight, right? He's helping with the fireworks?"

Midoriya nodded, hesitating for a moment before continuing on, "I've seen our futures together, I've seen countless moments in time where you and Pino are with me, and Eri, and everyone else in our polycule. Everyone…except for Katsuki."

Rodi's brow arched, concern and confusion evident in his frown. Shinsou and Todoroki were quiet as well, then Todoroki asked softly, "You think your quirk is trying to tell you something? Something about their past?"

Midoriya nodded, looking up at Shinsou and holding his gaze, Shinsou searching his husband's eyes for a long moment before shifting his gaze to Rodi, letting out a quiet sigh.

"It's possible they've crossed paths before," Shinsou said thoughtfully, "Perhaps years ago, however fleetingly. An interaction or altercation that took place between them, something that would cause them to be incapable of becoming friends later in life."

"I thought this before," Todoroki added, meeting Rodi's eyes, "You and Pino, you seem almost…familiar." His gaze shifted to Midoriya briefly before returning to Rodi again. "I wondered if perhaps we've met before. Perhaps on assignment, or at a hero agency?"

Rodi's eyes widened a bit at that, and he chuckled before humming thoughtfully, nodding his understanding. "Izuku mentioned before that there were both heroes and villains amongst his chosen partners." He grinned and patted his own chest lightly, a glimmer of mischief shining in his stormy eyes. "It's been years since we last acted as such, but there was a time where Pino and I were known as The Lovebirds."

Both Todoroki and Shinsou made sounds of recognition and surprise, Todoroki leaning a little closer while asking, "You two are Wren and Mimid? I would have never guessed that! You both must have been so young…"

"You disappeared so suddenly." Shinsou paused for a moment, putting the pieces together. "Rodi, I don't mean to sound insensitive in asking this, but I wonder if you might feel comfortable sharing with us what happened?"

Midoriya nodded as well, squeezing Rodi's hand and searching his eyes. "I think…this might have something to do with Pino. Something regarding her injuries, the incident that led to the two of you giving up your identities as villains, and returning to civilian life."

Rodi's expression fell a bit, and he held Midoriya's gaze for a long, quiet moment before glancing towards Shinsou and Todoroki, then casting his gaze aside. A shudder passed through him, cold shivering up his spine at the memory of what had transpired, and he closed his eyes to gather his composure before looking to Midoriya once more.

"It happened late one night, after a successful heist. We'd made from all appearances a clean getaway, and we'd dropped our guard, overconfident and almost certain we were already in the clear long before reaching our hideout." He shook his head, his face twisting. "A hero appeared out of nowhere, he blinded us with his quirk, and sent us both bouncing like ragdolls across the rooftops."

He squeezed Midoriya's hand, Midoriya listening intently while offering what comfort he could.

"My quirk isn't meant to deal with such physical violence, and knowing this Pino put herself between us, shielded me from his quirk. It ripped through her like nothing I'd ever seen before, the raw power he held was ungodly."

Todoroki let out a soft, shaky exhale, looking up at Shinsou worriedly, the older hero's expression half-shadowed, his brow pinched tightly.

Midoriya knew before either of his partners spoke what it meant, who it was that had confronted Rodi and Pino that night. He searched Rodi's eyes, then in a small, uncertain tone he asked, "If you were to meet that hero again…?"

Rodi sighed heavily, reaching up to card his fingers through his hair, thinking long and hard for a moment before asking, "You really think it's him? You think the hero that nearly killed Pino that night…you think that's Katsuki?"

Midoriya nodded tentatively, swallowing past the lump in his throat to carefully respond, "It's the only explanation that makes sense, given all the factors. I think that's why my quirk has never shown the three of you together, and why I saw a vision of you and Pino retreating into yourselves suddenly - something that must have a direct correlation to tonight."

"Meeting him again unexpectedly would cause us to withdraw from interacting with your polycule," Rodi murmured, "If for no other reason than Pino would be terrified-"

They all seemed to have the same realization at the same time, Rodi and Midoriya jumping to their feet and running back towards the picnic area, Shinsou and Todoroki following hand-in-hand just after them. As they reached the clearing the fireworks were just ending, and a cacophony of applause drowned out all else, Rodi reaching out to Pino and drawing her close, hugging her tightly against his chest, Eri looking to Midoriya in surprise.

"Is everything alright?" She asked as soon as the height of the noise had passed, and Midoriya hesitated before slowly shaking his head, watching Rodi and Pino worriedly.

"Not yet." Midoriya turned to survey the crowd, keeping an eye out for Bakugou and Kirishima, who were undoubtedly making their way towards the picnic area now that the display had ended. "I need to find Katsuki, will you stay with them?"

Eri nodded, hugging Anastasia and Isabelle as they both clung to her excitedly, Pino and Rodi settling down beside her atop the blanket while Rodi relayed to them both what was happening.

Midoriya watched over them for a moment longer before turning to Shinsou and Todoroki, calling out to them as he stepped towards the crowd, "I'm going to find Katsu and Eiji!"

"We'll come with you-" Todoroki started, but Midoriya shook his head.

"I have to do this." Midoriya held his boyfriend's eyes, offering him an affectionate smile. "I promise we'll be back soon!"

Shinsou wrapped his arm around Todoroki's waist, and Todoroki nodded his understanding, pressing close to Shinsou's side. "Be safe." Shinsou called back gently, holding Midoriya's eyes. "Don't get lost in the crowd."

Midoriya held his husband's eyes, then turned towards the crowd. In only a few moments he was completely out of sight.

-x-

Kirishima chuckled sheepishly as Bakugou pressed him back against a tree, his cheeks nearly as bright as his hair. "Aww c'mon, babe. I was only teasin'!"

"You knew exactly what you were doing." Bakugou growled, pinning Kirishima's chest and waist with his smaller frame, clicking his tongue against his teeth before pushing up onto his toes for a much needed kiss. "Damned brat! I've been riled up all night-"

Kirishima grinned and cupped Bakugou's nape, kissing him back with a muffled moan, allowing Bakugou to set the pace. The blonde huffed irritably and tugged Kirishima down to him as their kisses grew deeper, more heated, grinding against him purposefully so Kirishima could feel the hard jut of his arousal pressed along the curve of his hip.

"Katsu, we can't-" Kirishima started, shivering as Bakugou nipped at his lips, rolling their hips together invitingly, "-there are kids here!"

"Guess we'd better hurry then." Bakugou grinned, vivid garnet glinting in the darkness as he grabbed Kirishima's wrist and tugged him further into the trees, Kirishima laughing breathlessly and glancing over his shoulder towards the still smoking remnants of the fireworks display, stopping in his tracks when he recognized a familiar face.

"Wait, Katsu. Is that Izuku?"

Bakugou paused to turn and look as well, frowning a little as he called out through the lingering smoke, "Oi, Izuku!"

Midoriya perked up at hearing Bakugou's voice, crossing the clearing to reach them, offering them both a tired smile while exhaling a relieved sigh.

"What're you doing back here?" Bakugou asked, reaching out to take Midoriya's hand. "Where's everyone?"

"They're still at the picnic area. I needed to speak with you before meeting up with them." He glanced up at Kirishima, offering him a fond smile before continuing hesitantly, "Kiri, would it be alright if I talked to Katsuki alone for a minute? We'll find you just after. It shouldn't take long."

Kirishima's eyes widened a bit, but he nodded his understanding, rubbing at his nape. "Uh, sure thing! I'll see you in a bit?"

Midoriya and Bakugou watched him go, Kirishima offering a little wave before weaving into the crowd, Midoriya pausing for a few moments to gather his thoughts before turning to meet Bakugou's eyes.

"What is it?" Bakugou asked softly, a hint of worry in his tone. "Is everything alright?"

"I really hope it can be." Midoriya whispered, squeezing Bakugou's hand, searching his eyes. "I need to talk to you about something that happened, years ago. I'm not sure if it's something you'll even remember, but it's important Katsuki. Will you please try?"

Bakugou arched his brow a bit, nodding as he stepped closer into Midoriya's space, wrapping an arm around him to share his natural warmth. "Yeah, of course. Tell me what I can do?"

Shinsou and Todoroki noticed Kirishima first, stepping closer to greet him, Kirishima glancing towards Rodi and Pino curiously, still trying to understand what was going on.

Eri looked up to meet his eyes briefly before returning her gaze to her partners. Pino was clinging to her hand tightly, listening quietly as Rodi spoke, her shoulders tense and her brow furrowed, Rodi cupping her cheek and searching her eyes.

"I know this is a lot for you to process so suddenly. Neither of us imagined we would ever see him again."

"I'm not certain if I can simply…accept this." Pino whispered softly through their shared bond, her shoulders trembling as she blinked back tears. "The thought of seeing that hero again, of being in such close proximity with him, I…"

She looked to Eri then, shaking her head slowly, tears threatening to spill down her flushed cheeks.

"Oh, my precious little dove. I cherish you so deeply. The companionship we share, the love that has garnered between us. The depths of my feelings for you are well-nigh boundless. I can't imagine my life without you in it. You and Izuku, you mean the world to me." She glanced up at Rodi, "To both of us. It's just-"

She sniffed and tilted up her face a bit, blinking back tears, unable to stop a stray few from coursing down her cheeks.

"I've never felt such conflicted feelings before. I don't know what to do."

Shinsou, Todoroki, and Kirishima were listening quietly, then Shinsou stepped closer to Pino, kneeling down beside her and Eri. Rodi watched Shinsou quietly, the hero offering Pino a gentle smile and holding out his hand, waiting patiently for her to accept.

"I want to show you something." Shinsou murmured gently, ultraviolet light steadily gathering in his irises, glowing brilliantly as it slowly swirled. "It's a secret, something Izuku and I have sworn never to talk about, but given the circumstances I believe this may be the only way to ease the pain in your heart."

Rodi and Pino exchanged a glance, and Shinsou offered a hand out to Rodi too, inviting him to share their connection. Rodi clasped Shinsou's hand, then Pino took Shinsou's other hand as well, and once he was certain he was confident in the decision he was about to make, Shinsou revealed the series of events surrounding the fateful night Toga had nearly lost Meribelle.

Bakugou listened silently as Midoriya spoke, nodding subtly now and then, taking a few moments to absorb everything he had been told before opting to respond. "I do remember that night, intercepting Wren and Mimid after their heist." He cast his gaze aside, frowning as he continued on hesitantly, "It's not an excuse, but that happened only a few months after losing Ochaco." He exhaled a heavy sigh, his expression pained. "I…I thought I'd dealt enough damage that…those villains might've not made it." He turned to meet Midoriya's eyes, slowly shaking his head. "To think that they're here now, that they're your new partners…it's hard to wrap my head around."

Midoriya nodded his understanding, stroking his thumb back and forth across the back of Bakugou's hand. He paused for a few moments, allowing Bakugou time to think about where to go from here, and then Bakugou flicked his gaze towards the lingering crowd, his expression determined.

"Do you think they'd let me talk to them?" Bakugou asked, meeting Midoriya's eyes. "Is there any way I could apologize? Do you think they'd even listen if I tried?"

Midoriya let out a shaky exhale, shaking his head slowly. "I…I don't know, Kaachan. I haven't seen anything since that last vision. I think that…whatever happens between the three of you tonight, that determines whether or not Rodi and Pino are still a part of our future."

He worried his bottom lip, squeezing Bakugou's hand while searching his eyes.

"I understand you're not the same person you were when this happened. You've changed so much, you've grown into a gentle, caring hero and father. I know it's not fair for me to ask you to atone for mistakes you made so long ago, but please Katsuki." Tears gathered in his eyes, blurring the edges of his vision. "They mean so much to me, and to Eri. I don't want to lose them. It makes my heart ache just thinking about it…but I also don't want to ask you to do something painful."

Midoriya reached up and cupped Bakugou's jaw, his brow arched with concern.

"Your feelings and thoughts on this situation matter too. I don't want you to think even for a moment that I'm choosing a side. I only ask that you try to mend what has been broken. I truly believe Rodi and Pino are meant to be a part of our lives, and given time to heal their branches will one day twine with yours too."

Bakugou watched Midoriya with a soft, fond expression, dipping down to press a kiss to his forehead, wrapping his arms around Midoriya's shoulders and hugging him close.

"Some things are meant to be atoned for, regardless of the time that has passed."

Midoriya sniffed and hugged him back just as tightly, and they lingered there for a quiet moment before Bakugou drew back, carefully wiping away some of the tears glittering in Midoriya's dark lashes.

"I want to do this." Bakugou reassured, holding Midoriya's eyes, giving a little nod. "I want to apologize to both of them. I know it may be hard to hear, and even harder for them to accept, but you're right. So much has happened, so much has changed. I'm not the same person I once was, and I want to prove that to them. I want to earn their trust."

Midoriya's smile lit up his face, and he laughed and sniffed, warm tears dripping down his flushed cheeks. "Thank you, thank you Katsuki."

Bakugou took Midoriya's hand, and together they made their way through the now dark, quiet park to where their polycule was waiting. As soon as the picnic tables came into view, Midoriya felt a sense of relief wash over him, his eyes instinctually finding Shinsou's, his husband offering him a gentle, reassuring smile.

As they drew closer, Bakugou let go of Midoriya's hand to step forward alone, his eyes on Rodi and Pino. Pino watched Bakugou's approach silently, then she took a few steps closer to meet him, the rest of the polycule observing from a small distance. The tension between them was evident to everyone, and Eri and Rodi exchanged a glance, Eri giving a little nod of encouragement. Rodi offered her an affectionate smile before stepping closer as well, taking his place at Pino's side, Pino's eyes never leaving Bakugou's as Rodi gently took her hand.

"Baby?" He whispered, leaning in to kiss her cheek. "Is there something you wanted to say?"

Pino searched Bakugou's eyes, seeing clearly the shame and regret straining his features, knowing beyond any doubt what he was there to say even without hearing him speak. She took a calming breath, exhaling slowly, then in a soft, raspy voice she said aloud, "I forgive you, Bakugou Katsuki. I forgive you, although I will never forget."

Bakugou's eyes widened in surprise, and his breath hitched as he tried to find the words to speak, but Pino continued before he could.

"We have all made decisions we regret. I understand, perhaps better than anyone, what it feels like to lose yourself to anger, despair, and grief."

She turned her eyes to Rodi, squeezing his hand, and Rodi smiled down at her tenderly, nodding his agreement with a low hum. He looked to Bakugou, squeezing Pino's hand as he said, "We understand well just how much someone's heart can change, given their experiences in life. We hope that from this moment going forward, the three of us might start anew. We're willing to forgive the past between us, and accept you for who you are now."

Rodi's expression softened a bit, and he looked to Midoriya as he stepped closer to take Bakugou's hand.

"As Eri and Izuku's beloved partner, as Ana and Isabelle's adored father, and an invaluable member of this beautiful family we also hope to be a part of."

Bakugou was taken back, quiet for several moments before dipping his head, bowing low as his voice wavered with emotion. "I am sorry for hurting you both. I cannot begin to imagine the pain and fear my actions have caused, the scars you both must carry." He lifted his head gingerly, meeting Pino's eyes. "I will do everything in my power to prove myself worthy of your forgiveness." His gaze shifted to Rodi as well, giving a little nod as he added with a half-smile, "I would like it very much if we could aspire to one day be friends."

Midoriya sighed quietly, closing his eyes for a moment, tilting his face up towards the starry sky. He could hear the distant echoes of fireworks, a glimpse of another night flashing through his mind. A warm summer night where they were all together again, laughing and sharing stories, holding hands and sitting side by side as fireworks burst high above them in magnificent fountains.

It felt gentle and warm, so close he could almost touch it. Tender, and still somewhat fragile. Something new to look forward to in the years soon to come.

-x-x-x-

Bakugou watched the fireworks blooming in the distance, muted echoes reaching their balcony after only a small delay, beckoning the new year. Eri was curled up under his arm beneath a heated blanket, dozing lightly against his shoulder, one of her hands resting on Bakugou's thigh, her other hand twined with Pino's.

Bakugou turned his gaze to look down at them after a while, smiling as he watched over Eri, then shifted his gaze ever so slightly to watch Pino as well. He gazed down at her with a soft expression, quiet for a long moment before opting to speak.

"Pino?" He asked softly, and she turned her gaze from the fireworks to look up into his eyes. "Would it be alright if I asked you something?"

Pino hummed curiously, a soft twitter fluttering in her throat. "What is it, Katsuki?"

Bakugou arched his brow, rubbing Eri's shoulder gently before continuing on, "Why haven't you accepted Eri's offer to heal your injuries?" His expression fell a bit, his gaze drifting across the balcony towards the fireworks once more. "You and Rodi have been with us for nearly half a year now." He mulled over his thoughts quietly for a moment, then gingerly met Pino's eyes. "Is it…because of me? Is there something I need to do or say, for you to accept her offer?"

Pino's eyes widened at that, and she reached for Bakugou's hand, resting her fingers over his lightly. "No, Katsuki. I do not wish for you to feel that way. My choice has little to do with you, and more to do with the promises Rodi and I have made to each other. The memories we share."

She reached up and touched her throat, offering Bakugou a soft smile.

"This scar proves how earnestly we fought against death, and how ardently we grasped for a new life." She traced along her throat with her fingertips while adding on, "There may come a time when my feelings change, and if so I will accept Eri's offer. Until then, I am content as I am."

She patted Bakugou's hand, then laced their fingers, squeezing reassuringly.

"Regardless of my injuries, my quirk allows me to speak with you, and the rest of our flock. If I'm honest, sometimes I prefer things this way." She held Bakugou's eyes before giving a playful wink. "It gives me an excuse not to talk to anyone unless I sincerely yearn to."

Bakugou chuckled softly at that, his expression smoothing. "I can sympathize with that. There are often times I wish I wasn't obligated to speak with the media and hero commission, let alone the random fame-chasing citizens who only want to brag about meeting a pro hero to their friends."

Pino warbled softly, clearly amused, drawing back her hand a bit to tug their shared blanket a bit higher around Eri's petite frame, Bakugou watching her movements with a smile.

"Thank you, for being here." Bakugou said softly, Pino smiling and nodding lightly, leaning closer to press a kiss to Eri's cheek before meeting Bakugou's eyes.

"Thank you for opening your heart to us, and sharing your precious family."

She leaned against Eri's side, Bakugou's fingertips resting lightly against her shoulder.

"You and your amazing polycule, you've given us a home."

Thanks for reading! More to come!