Lyrical

Disclaimer: I do not own My Hero Academia.

Warnings: Injury/Recovery, Hurt/Comfort, Trauma, Death

Pairings: Midoriya x Bakugou, Bakugou x Kirishima

Plot: In the aftermath of war, Bakugou makes a life-altering decision.

No, we're not promised tomorrow…

Ch 11: Like I'm Gonna Lose You

Part One: Sprout

Bakugou sat up in bed, already heaving, tossing back the sheets and scrambling towards the bathroom, reaching the toilet just as he started to retch. Midoriya sat up in bed, calling after him groggily, and after a few moments soft footsteps padded closer to the bathroom, Midoriya kneeling beside Bakugou on the cold tile to rub along his back in soothing passes.

Bakugou shuddered and retched again, coughing and groaning miserably, Midoriya warbling a soft croon to try and take the edge off the worst of it.

"This fucking sucks." Bakugou growled out, his voice echoing against the porcelain, and Midoriya grimaced and chuckled softly, nosing at Bakugou's shoulder with a teasing smile.

"You wanted this, remember?"

There was an irritated snort and then a wet cough before Bakugou begrudgingly lifted his head. "I know, I know. Still sucks, when is this shit supposed to end?"

"A few more weeks? Next trimester."

Bakugou grunted irritably and shifted away from the toilet, resting against Midoriya as he glared down at his middle. "Ya hear that, ya little shit? You get to be the boss 'til next trimester, then we're done with this bullshit!"

Midoriya laughed and helped Bakugou to his feet, walking with him back towards the bed. "Not sure it works like that, Kaachan…"

"Well it's gonna! Can't eat, can't sleep, can't hardly breathe without feeling nauseous." He frowned and glared down at his bump, planting a palm over it as he growled, "This is my body we're sharin'! Just 'cause your dad's not around, that doesn't give you any right to keep makin' such a fuss!"

As Bakugou settled in bed, Midoriya left his side to wander down the hallway and into the kitchen, grabbing a bottle of sprite and two glasses of water before returning to the bedroom, offering Bakugou one of each. He murmured his thanks, taking a few sips of sprite before drinking down the glass of water, exhaling loudly before setting them both aside. He fluffed his pillows, then curled up on his side, pouting as he glared at Midoriya.

"You absolute fuckin' jerkoff. You comfy over there?"

Midoriya blinked twice and then grinned sheepishly, crooning as he reached over to rest his arm around Bakugou's middle, humming quietly while searching the omega's eyes.

"I'm sorry you aren't feeling well." He offered Bakugou an apologetic little smile, then paused for a moment before whispering, "We're really doing this, huh?"

Bakugou's expression smoothed a bit, and he nodded lightly. "Yeah, we're doing this. It's what Eiji would have wanted."

Midoriya scooted a little closer, petting gently over Bakugou's side, the blonde eventually taking his hand and resting Midoriya's warm palm over his bump, the Alpha crooning soft and deep.

"Yeah, sing to 'em. Sing 'em to sleep." Bakugou murmured, already drifting off, Midoriya watching over him with a soft smile.

It still didn't feel real sometimes, being here like this with Bakugou. A year had passed since the war had ended, a year since they'd lost countless friends and allies in the final standoff between the Pro Heroes and The League.

Kirishima had died fighting for what he believed in, using himself as a living shield until his body shattered. He'd saved dozens of lives in his final moments, and his sacrifice was not one that would soon be forgotten.

About six months ago, Bakugou had made the decision to consult with a specialty fertility clinic in hopes of creating a child with Kirishima's DNA. Like most Pro Hero bondmates, Kirishima and Bakugou had made preparations just in case something catastrophic happened to one of them, to ensure that the sole survivor could create a pup with their shared DNA, if in the end that was still what they wanted.

Several counseling sessions and fertility treatments later, the insemination was declared successful. Now, at nearly twelve weeks, Bakugou's bump was clearly visible, and his morning sickness was the worst it had ever been.

Midoriya had moved in just after Bakugou started showing. As of now, he was the only one privy to what Bakugou had been up to these past several months. Midoriya wasn't certain how their friends would react once the secret was out, but Bakugou seemed to have little to no concern with others' opinions, as always. He had never held a typical omega's sweet, docile attitude. If anything, carrying around a fussy pup for going on twelve weeks had only made his abrasive demeanor that much more aggressive.

As an Alpha and a childhood friend, Midoriya was able to be there for Bakugou in ways Kirishima would have been. As an ally, a protector and provider, offering whatever help and comfort he possibly could. Strangely enough, despite Bakugou's growing aggression towards everything and everyone around him, Midoriya was somehow exempt from his wrath. More often than not Bakugou seemed grateful for Midoriya's presence, his scent and warmth calming and soothing, to both Bakugou and his rowdy pup.

Midoriya smiled to himself as he felt subtle movement beneath his palm, petting over Bakugou's bump gently as the omega dozed. Eventually he drifted off as well, still crooning soft and low as he rested peacefully beside Bakugou in those early morning hours before dawn.

-x-

Bakugou's phone was ringing. Midoriya glanced up from the stovetop, tossing the stir fry for a moment longer before calling out over the radio, "Kaachan? Your phone!"

"Yeah, yeah. I hear it."

Bakugou appeared around the corner with an irritated frown, a face mask half-painted across his cheeks and the bridge of his nose, a fluffy towel wrapped around his still-damp hair.

He wrinkled his nose and rolled his eyes, flicking the buzzing icon and shouting down at the device, "The fuck did I say? Stop calling, Pinky!"

Ashido's cackle filled the living room, her voice a little grainy over the speaker as she drawled, "Aww c'mon, KitKat! Come out with us!"

There was shuffling in the background, then Toga giggled and said, "You know you want to spend time with us, Kitty!"

The phone was shuffled again, Uraraka sounding out of breath as she husked into the phone, "Oh, you two are so boring lately! What are you even doing, cooped up at Bakugou's place all the time?"

"Either you come and meet us, or we're showing up at your door!" Ashido shouted in the background, Uraraka and Toga giggling as they passed the phone back and forth.

"Tell Izuku we miss him!"

"We miss you both!"

"Come out tonight! It's disco karaoke!"

"Pleeease?"

"Alright already!" Bakugou snapped, throwing the phone against the couch, Midoriya turning his back to hide his laughter as it bounced across the cushions and clattered to the floor. "Send Deku the fucking address! Goodbye!"

"We'll see you soon!" Ashido called from the floor, and after quite a bit of shuffling and laughter the call ended with a beep, Bakugou sighing heavily as he returned to the bathroom to finish his skincare routine.

"Fuckin' hyenas!"

"We have been avoiding them for a while now, with no explanation." Midoriya hummed, setting the skillet aside and checking the timer before turning to fluff the rice. "Don't you think they'll notice something's off when you're not drinking tonight?"

Bakugou grumbled something Midoriya didn't quite catch, the Alpha leaving the kitchen to seek him out, smiling as he leaned against the doorframe and watched Bakugou apply his face mask.

Midoriya was quiet for a long moment, then he asked gently, "Kaachan?"

"I said it's fine." Bakugou murmured, taking care to paint around his eyes. "If they ask, then I'll tell them. It's not like I wanna keep it a secret from them." His gaze shifted to meet Midoriya's searching his eyes. "They're the only pack we've got left."

"Yeah." Midoriya said softly, offering Bakugou a half-smile.

"Besides, knowing those idiots they'll wanna be a part of all of it." Bakugou touched up a few thin spots then set the brush aside, examining his mask in the mirror before reaching up to take down his towel. "Maybe Mina will have some ideas on how to paint the nursery."

"Sure, if you're into leopard spots."

Bakugou clicked his tongue against his teeth, grinning despite himself. "Fuckin' Pinky, she's gonna want ta be our kid's godmother for sure."

Midoriya smiled, his heart impossibly warm at hearing Bakugou refer to his pup as theirs. "Yeah, she sure is. Ochaco and Himiko will too." He shrugged lightly, chuckling softly as he added, "Wasn't it Sleeping Beauty who had three fairy godmothers? Maybe we should name the pup Aurora."

"You sayin' you think it's gonna be a girl?"

"I dunno." Midoriya grinned a bit wider, sheepish and hopeful. "I think I kinda like the idea of a tough little girl, keeping you in line."

"Feel sorry for any kid that shares my demeanor." Bakugou grumbled, "Better if they take after Eiji, all cuddly and soft."

"Ah, that'd be even more dangerous." Midoriya crooned, meeting Bakugou's eyes. "She'd have you wrapped around her little fingers then, no questions asked."

"You and me both." Bakugou grinned, and Midoriya chuckled before turning to walk back towards the kitchen, leaving Bakugou to himself.

"Lunch is almost ready, you feel up to eating yet?"

"Yeah, thanks Izuku."

Midoriya's heart skipped a beat at hearing his given name, and he smiled to himself as he whispered softly, "You're welcome, Kaachan."

-x-

Cheers arose from the table as they approached, Ashido beckoning them closer with a fanged smile. "KitKat! Ya made it!"

"Eat shit and die." Bakugou huffed as he plopped down atop the wide booth, scooting closer to Uraraka so Midoriya could take a seat beside him. "Fucking hell, those two showed up?"

Monoma and Shinsou were standing at the bar directly across from their table, Monoma chatting with the KJ and gesturing towards the large screen occupying the adjacent wall. Shinsou noticed their arrival first, grinning impishly and giving a faux salute in greeting as he waited for his turn to pick a song.

"They're not the only ones!" Ashido gestured towards the pool tables nearby, "You can hardly recognize them, right? Now that they're quirkless!"

Midoriya's eyes shifted to the trio taking turns at the closest pool table, frowning for a moment as he tried to piece together what Ashido wasn't saying. "Wait…is that Shouji?"

"Hagakure and Tokoyami too!" Ashido waved to them excitedly, the blonde girl at the table offering a shy little smile and waving back. The boys beside her exchanged words for a moment before stepping away from the pool table to greet them. "It's great to see you guys!"

"You too, Mina." Shouji said softly, his voice gravelly and deep. "It's been a while."

Midoriya stood again to greet Tokoyami, hesitantly reaching out to embrace him, Tokoyami offering Midoriya a half-smile as they met eyes. "Wow, Fumi." Midoriya murmured, taking in Tokoyami's changed appearance with awe. "You look…"

"I know." Tokoyami closed his eyes, giving a little nod of understanding. "It's taken quite a bit of getting used to, existing in this world without Dark Shadow."

"I never thought…" Midoriya looked from Tokoyami to Shouji and Hagakure. "I guess it's not my place. Being born with quirks like yours, I'm sure you didn't make such decisions lightly."

"We've never been happier." Shouji said as he looked down at Hagakure, taking her hand with a gentle smile.

Hagakure's cheeks were tinged with pink, and she leaned into Shouji's side, resting her cheek against his arm. "For us, it was easy. We've always been so different. The serum gave us a way to finally be normal; to live out the rest of our lives as civilians, instead of heroes."

"After the war, a lot of heroes opted to accept the serum." Shouji nodded, looking from Midoriya to Ashido, "You considered becoming quirkless for a while, didn't you Mina?"

"Some days I still do." Ashido sighed, propping her hand against her hip. "Other days I feel like my quirk is the only thing keeping me safe, should The League one day reform."

"That'll never happen." Toga said, Uraraka resting quietly against her side. All eyes turned to focus on the former villain, and Toga continued with an impish grin, "All of the would-be leaders were taken into captivity or eliminated. The remaining villains are scattered to the winds now, there's nothing left to reform."

"It's still hard to let go of that feeling." Ashido sighed and hugged herself, frowning as she tilted her head. "I mean, could you imagine how different your lives would be if you decided to give up your quirks?"

"Heavy topic of conversation."

Shinsou bumped his shoulder against Tokoyami's as he came to stand beside them, offering Midoriya and Bakugou an informal greeting. "There they are! Mina finally managed to drag the two of you out then? Did she threaten to show up at your doorstep too?"

Monoma slid into the booth beside Toga and Uraraka, setting his cocktail atop the table and leaning in to give Bakugou a sly smile. "Bakugou Katsuki, where have you been hiding? We haven't seen you in what, nearly half a year?"

Bakugou clicked his tongue against his teeth, narrowing his eyes at Monoma. "Disco karaoke isn't exactly a top priority."

"That may be, but to not make an appearance at any of Mina's events over the last six months? What have you been up to?"

Midoriya returned to his place at Bakugou's side, Tokoyami sitting down beside them. "Hey Neito, cut him some slack okay? He's…we've all been through a lot. We're all still recovering-"

"I have words for you as well, Midoriya Izuku." Monoma fixed his gaze on Midoriya with a teasing grin. "Since when are the two of you living together?"

Bakugou groaned and rolled his eyes, Midoriya laughing sheepishly. "Oh! Uh…well, you see-"

"Are the two of you finally together, then?" Monoma pressed on, Midoriya flushing crimson as he stammered and waved his hands.

"W-What? No! No, Neito, we're just friends!"

"Friends who live together." Shinsou crooned, his gaze fixed on Midoriya and Bakugou as well.

"Guys!" Midoriya laughed awkwardly and looked to Uraraka and Toga, "I-I mean, why don't we talk about something else? Like Ochaco and Himiko's engagement! That's exciting!"

"Been there, done that." Shinsou drawled. "We celebrated their engagement three months ago."

"Which you would know," Monoma smirked, "If either of you had bothered to show up." The beta sighed and checked his nails, turning his hand this way and that. "We've been trying to respect your privacy, but given the circumstances of your current living situation…" He looked up to catch Midoriya's eyes, "C'mon, you can tell us. What's really going on between you two?"

"Ugh, you goddamned vultures!" Bakugou kicked the leg of the table, jostling it back several inches and spilling drinks everywhere. "You wanna know the truth?!"

He stood up from the booth, tugging up his oversized hoodie, growling irritably as he flashed a glimpse of his rounded middle to everyone.

"I'm fucking pregnant, alright?!" He held the dark fabric up for a moment longer before dropping it and taking his seat again, crossing his arms over his chest. "Now shut the fuck up about it!"

Shocked silence reigned for several moments before Ashido screamed, Uraraka and Toga reaching out to hug Bakugou excitedly, Midoriya rubbing his nape and laughing nervously as their friends immediately began hounding them with questions.

"No fucking way!"

"Are you serious? You can't possibly be serious!"

"Kitty, you're pregnant?!"

"Oh my god-"

"-would never have expected-"

"Bakugou fucking Katsuki-!"

"-can't believe he's actually knocked up!"

Shinsou reached out, clapping Midoriya on the shoulder with a devious grin.

"Izuku you absolute devil!"

"W-Wait, I'm not-!" Midoriya began, his voice trembling as he tried to speak over everyone, "The baby isn't mine! It's Eiji's!"

Tokoyami sighed quietly, patting Midoriya's arm lightly in a consoling manner. Shinsou's expression shifted a bit, his eyes flitting from Midoriya to Bakugou then back again.

"Ahh, of course it's Eiji's."

Monoma and Ashido had heard Midoriya's exclamation as well, both quieting down a bit as they looked between their friends.

"Oh wow! Really?"

"You made the pup with Kiri's DNA?"

Bakugou's brow pinched a bit, and he glanced towards Midoriya briefly before looking away, snorting irritably. "Haven't been avoiding you idiots on purpose. My morning sickness has been horrible recently, and Deku…" His tone dropped into something soft, almost affectionate, "He's been helping me."

Ashido grinned from ear to ear, Uraraka and Toga cooing and pawing at Bakugou's arm and shoulder, Hagakure giggling as she hid her face against Shouji's biceps.

"Aww, that's so cute!"

"You guys are adorable!"

"Well well." Shinsou leaned back a bit, eyeing Midoriya and Bakugou with a knowing grin. "That's good, y'know? It's good that the two of you have each other."

Monoma hummed his agreement, Ashido sighing dreamily as she clasped her hands together, practically swooning. "Izuku's a strong, sweet, dependable hero. You really couldn't have picked a better Alpha-"

"Isn't it someone's turn to sing already?" Bakugou murmured with a soft growl, cutting his eyes towards the KJ. "Didn't come here to get fussed over. Somebody sing something."

"We're up first!"

Monoma took Ashido's hand and led her to the stage, Ashido beckoning Hagakure along too. She left Shouji's side, the Alpha watching her with an affectionate smile, Shinsou leaning closer to croon curiously, "So you and Toru, huh? When did that happen?"

As music flooded over the speakers and the group's chatter turned to other things, Midoriya leaned against Bakugou's shoulder and asked so only they could hear, "Kaachan? Are you okay?"

"I'm fine, nerd." Bakugou replied easily, looking up to meet Midoriya's eyes. "You gonna put in a song request or what?"

Midoriya blinked in surprise, then laughed and glanced towards the KJ with interest. "Yeah, I guess so." He turned to speak with Tokoyami, then they stood from the table and walked to the bar, Shinsou sliding into the booth beside Bakugou with a mischievous grin.

"So?" He asked, resting his cheek against his palm. "What's really going on with you two?"

"Nothing is going on." Bakugou bristled, his lips pulled back into a snarl. "Why do you give a shit anyway, Shinsou?"

"I care about Izuku." Shinsou replied with an unbothered smile. "I care about you too, y'know. We all do."

"Nosy busybodies, the lot of you."

"Can you blame us?" Shinsou asked, and he leaned a little closer to bump their shoulders together lightly. "It's good to see you, Katsuki. I know you've been through a lot, I can't begin to imagine how hard these past few months have been." Shinsou frowned, his brow pinched as he sighed quietly, "Losing a bondmate isn't something you just get over-"

"Alright listen," Bakugou turned to face Shinsou fully, his shoulders tense. "I get that you're trying to be supportive or whatever, but I don't want to talk about it-"

Shinsou lifted his hands, nodding quickly. "Okay, okay. I understand." He offered Bakugou a half-smile, resting a hand against the blonde's shoulder lightly, "Just wanted to say that I'm here for you, if you need someone to talk to."

"Thanks, I guess." Bakugou grumbled, snorting softly as he looked off towards the stage, where Ashido and Monoma were singing with Hagakure. Shouji and Midoriya were standing beneath the shimmering disco ball, clapping along to the beat and chatting while Tokoyami spoke with the KJ.

"It's weird, right? Seeing everyone again. Especially those guys." Shinsou gestured towards Shouji and Tokoyami, grinning teasingly. "Never imagined that's what their faces would look like without their quirks!"

Bakugou hummed absently, thinking for a moment before asking, "Have you ever thought about it? Giving up your quirk?"

"Me? Nah, there's no way I'd ever take the serum. Not willingly." Shinsou sighed and reclined back against the booth, Bakugou watching him with an unreadable expression. "Psychic quirks like mine are useful, and the least conspicuous around others. I understand their want to rid themselves of their mutations, to live some semblance of a normal life. I don't fault them for it. Being outcasts, being labeled as freaks, is all they've ever known. Even as heroes."

Bakugou considered for a moment, then glanced down at his hands, before resting them carefully over the subtle bump beneath his hoodie.

Shinsou watched him with a wry smile, then asked curiously, "Have you thought about it? Is that something you'd want?"

"They asked me about it," Bakugou murmured, rubbing along the curve of his middle. "At the specialty clinic. Before they start any treatments, they have you go through these counseling sessions to make sure you've really thought about the decision you're about to make. The responsibility of bringing new life into the world, the repercussions of your actions, all of it."

He met Shinsou's eyes, searching for a moment before continuing on.

"The counselor asked if I'd considered accepting the serum, what it would look like if my quirk or Eiji's was passed along to our pup, or some variation of our quirks meshed together." He wrinkled his nose, furrowing his brow. "At the time, I hadn't even considered it. Hell, sometimes a kid's quirk is nothing like their parents' at all! But it got me thinking…"

"About what it would be like?" Shinsou asked softly, "If you were quirkless?"

"Yeah." Bakugou's gaze fell on Midoriya once more. "I was thinking about what it must have been like for Izuku, growing up without one. If taking the serum would be what was best for me, and for our baby."

"Our?" Shinsou asked, raising a brow.

"Yeah, I mean…this baby's gonna be Izuku's, just as much as Eiji's and mine." He met Shinsou's eyes, crimson burning into violet, as if daring the beta to challenge him. "Izuku's been there for me through all of it. Losing Eiji, and now everything that comes along with creating a whole ass kid. We might not be mates, but he's everything to me, and I couldn't begin to imagine my life without him in it. I-"

Bakugou's face flushed and he glanced away, Shinsou grinning at the bright pink blush highlighting the tips of his ears.

"You love him?" Shinsou teased gently, knocking their shoulders together again.

"Shut it, Mindfreak."

"My lips are sealed." Shinsou zipped his fingers across his mouth, despite his massive grin. "Scout's honor."

Uraraka and Toga had been listening to their conversation, and Uraraka took Bakugou's hand and squeezed his fingers tightly, her eyes shining with happy tears and her cheeks rosy. "Oh, Katsuki! You have to know by now that Izuku loves you too. Why don't you tell him?"

"I don't want anything to change between us." Bakugou sighed softly, glancing between Uraraka and Toga, the girls exchanging a look before focusing on Bakugou again. "You know how he is. Saying it out loud, it'll make things weird. He already coddles me, he's always doing way too much for me, I'll never be able to repay him-"

"Have you considered he would never want you to?" Uraraka asked gently, patting Bakugou's hand. "Izuku's love is the selfless kind that none of us deserve, and yet he loves us anyway. You, I'd argue, most of all."

Bakugou groaned and tossed his head back, thumping it lightly against the booth. "This is why I never talk about this shit, you two are just as bad as he is. Engaged after dating less than a year-!"

"Hey!" Toga piped up with an impish grin, "Just because we're not afraid to say we're hopelessly in love-"

"Aren't friends supposed to give sound, reasonable advice! Not encourage absolute insanity?"

"What kind of advice are you looking for?" Shinsou chuckled, leaning across the table to catch Uraraka's eyes before focusing on Bakugou again. "I'm sure anyone outside of you and Izuku would say the same thing after spending half a minute around you pair of lovesick idiots."

"The two of you were meant to be together." Uraraka said seriously, squeezing Bakugou's hand. "As best friends, as hero partners, as lovers-"

Bakugou growled in frustration, his shoulders tensing defensively. "I was mated to someone else, for fuck's sake!"

"And Kiri loved Izuku too!" Toga piped up again, Uraraka nodding excitedly.

"The three of you were inseparable! When you were together, it felt like all three of you were bonded!"

Bakugou's breath hitched and his face flushed crimson, and for once in his life he couldn't find anything snarky to retort.

Shinsou crooned, a lazy smirk narrowing his eyes. "It felt that way for you too, didn't it?"

"Fuck off and die!"

Midoriya looked over just as Bakugou shoved Shinsou hard enough to nearly knock him to the floor, laughing nervously and taking the microphone that Ashido offered him, stumbling slightly as he was ushered onto the stage. Whatever else Bakugou shouted was drowned out by the music blasting from the speakers, and he inhaled shakily to calm his nerves before lifting the microphone and starting to sing.

Ashido and Hagakure cheered him on enthusiastically, Monoma making his way to the table to take a seat beside Toga, the blondes immediately turning to one another to catch up on gossip. Uraraka was trying her best to calm Bakugou down, and Shinsou was laughing and holding his hands up defensively as the irritated omega swatted at him.

Midoriya took a breath between a verse and the upcoming chorus, smiling as his eyes drifted over his friend's faces, some familiar, and others strikingly new. His chest ached at the memories of events just like this from years before, when the bar had been filled to the brim with fellow heroes and packmates.

Out of everyone they'd lost in the war, he missed Asui, Kirishima, and Todoroki the most. Losing three of his closest, most trusted friends had nearly broken his heart.

Some packmates were still alive, but had decided to take different paths once the fighting had ended. Kaminari and Jirou had chosen to live in the country far away from the city, acting as heroes for the locals when needed but otherwise living a calm, quiet life. Sero had decided to travel between smaller cities along the coast, helping to safely rebuild war-stricken communities, his quirk an invaluable asset in both repair work and construction.

The last time Midoriya had heard from him, Sero had said he was doing well and enjoying his work, but it had been months since they'd last spoken. Everyone knew how Todoroki's death had affected Sero, even if he never said so aloud. There was a time before the war when they'd nearly mated. Midoriya knew well that they all grieved in their own ways, and didn't fault Sero for falling out of touch. They all carried secrets, longing and regret.

Midoriya was no different.

The stage lights were vibrant splashes of neon pink and electric blue in the dark, the disco ball spiraling overhead casting silvery streaks across the seating area and adjacent bar. It reminded Midoriya of the last New Year's party he'd attended with Bakugou and Kirishima, before their world fell apart.

He'd been tipsy, perhaps more so than he would have been otherwise had they not played drinking games the entire night. He'd gotten up from the living room carpet and stumbled down the hall towards the kitchen, catching himself on the doorframe and peering in to find Kirishima pouring another round of drinks, the red-head meeting his eyes with a fanged smile and cheery giggle.

"It's almost time for shots!" He'd said, and Midoriya had chuckled and groaned, stumbling forward to lean against the sink.

"No more shots for me. I need a glass of water, please."

Kirishima had sighed in fond exasperation, turning towards the cupboards to fetch a tall glass, filling it with cool water and handing it carefully to Midoriya. "For such a big, strong hero, you sure can't handle your liquor."

"Not true!" Midoriya had whined, stubbornly shaking his head before taking a sip. "It's just that Kaachan's quirk burns off alcohol so quickly, keeping up with him is nearly impossible!"

"I heard that!" Bakugou griped from down the hall, causing both Kirishima and Midoriya to burst into giggles. "Eiji, we're starting the countdown in two minutes!"

"Coming!" Kirishima had gathered the platter of shots and lifted it to his shoulder, stepping around Midoriya with a happy sigh, "Gotta go, before he gets all growly and becomes insufferable for the rest of the night!"

"I can still hear you!"

Midoriya laughed and nodded sympathetically, following after Kirishima and pausing beneath the doorway. "Have the two of you met? He's always growly."

"Izuku?"

Midoriya had glanced up and caught Kirishima's eyes, and the other Alpha had given him a tender smile, then leaned in and pressed a soft kiss against his lips.

"Happy New Year."

Midoriya's heart had kicked like a rabbit against his ribs, his eyes wide in surprise as he stammered out quickly, "H-Happy New Year, Kiri."

"One minute!"

Kirishima had turned away from him, chuckling as he carefully balanced the platter and returned to the party, Midoriya following at his heels like a puppy. "Alright, alright! Everybody take a shot!"

Midoriya had taken one as well, and Kirishima had turned to link their arms together, waiting eagerly for the final countdown.

"-three! Two! One! Happy New Year!"

They'd laughed and cheered, and tossed back their shots, hugging each other before turning to hug their friends, Midoriya's heart still fluttering wildly in his chest.

They'd never talked about it after. He'd never known what it truly meant.

He finished the final verse and stepped down from the stage, Ashido clapping his shoulder while Tokoyami took the microphone from his hands, Midoriya's eyes on Bakugou as the omega laughed at something Uraraka had said.

This was what they were meant to do, right? Live their lives, despite everything they had been through. Midoriya closed his eyes, tilting back his head, staring up at the ceiling and the swirling silver lights.

"Let's get you a drink." Ashido said, patting his back as she led him away, Midoriya nodding absently as he tried to focus on the present moment.

As precious as his memories of the past were to his heart, Midoriya wanted to make all sorts of new memories with his friends and packmates, memories filled to the brim with joy and laughter.

New cherished memories of being together with Bakugou, and someday soon their pup.

-x-

Midoriya flopped down face-first atop the comforter, letting out a tired sigh as he grabbed the closest pillow and nuzzled into it. "Why did I drink so much?"

"Because Pinky is a menace," Bakugou began, padding into the bathroom on socked feet, "and since I can't play drinking games with her anymore, you get the honorary privilege of being her wingman."

"Well thanks for that." Midoriya drawled, his low whine muffled into the pillow. "I'm gonna have such a bad hangover tomorrow…"

"Here, take these."

Midoriya glanced up just as a small bottle of pills bounced across the bed to tap against his shoulder, Midoriya smiling and rolling onto his side to twist off the cap. "Thanks, Kaachan…"

Bakugou sighed softly as he scrubbed his face with a cleansing wipe, staring at his reflection with a little pout as he examined his apparent flaws. "I'm getting fucking soft all over. Soon I'll be too fat to move-"

"Kaachan," Midoriya scolded gently, sitting up a bit to drink down some water with his pills, "You're pregnant. You're supposed to be fat, you're supplying nutrients to your baby-"

"Doesn't mean I have to like it." Bakugou grumbled, combing his fingers through his hair and leaning in towards the mirror. "I'm starting to get dark circles too, like fucking racoon boy."

"I doubt they'll ever be a match for Hitoshi's." Midoriya giggled, flopping down against the pillows again. "He's been sleep deprived for years. You've only been for a few months now."

"Can't believe it's only been twelve weeks." Bakugou sighed again, his voice tired and soft as he rubbed the curve of his bump. "Sometimes I forget, and then this little shit reminds me they're in there, and this is all really happening."

Midoriya watched Bakugou quietly, the omega frowning down at his bump for a moment longer before looking up to meet Midoriya's eyes, the Alpha offering a reassuring smile.

"You've got this." He whispered, nodding as he held out his hand, "You can do this, Kaachan. I know you can."

Bakugou crossed the distance to take Midoriya's hand, settling down beside him. Midoriya crooned while nosing into Bakugou's disheveled hair, pressing a kiss to his forehead and resting an arm around the omega's waist. Bakugou closed his eyes and listened, allowing Midoriya's soft vocalizations to soothe him, to wash away the anxieties and discomfort of the day.

"Izuku?"

Midoriya's crooning stuttered for a moment, a purr rumbling softly in his tone as he hummed a curious note.

"Can I tell you something, without you freaking out about it?"

Midoriya rolled back a bit, putting enough space between them to meet Bakugou's eyes. "What is it? Are you feeling okay?"

Bakugou huffed out a soft breath of laughter, patting Midoriya's chest gently. "It's not that, for once. I feel fine. I just…" His gaze dropped to his hand, and he fanned his fingers over Midoriya's sternum slowly, his brown pinching as he tried to find the right words to say. "I've been thinking about Eiji."

Midoriya arched his brow with concern, a soft croon returning to his tone. "I'm here for you, Kaachan. You can talk to me about anything, always."

"I know that." Bakugou murmured, his words soft and gentle, Midoriya's heart skipping beneath his palm. "I was thinking that…Eiji would want me to be happy. For both of us to be happy. If he's out there somewhere, watching over us, I think he would be content with this. With us." He chewed his lip for a moment, then pressed on. "What I'm trying to say is that I…"

His breath hitched, and his face scrunched up a bit.

"I just want you to know that I love you. That doesn't mean I expect anything different from you, I don't want anything between us to change. I just thought that after all this time you deserve to know, or at least to hear me say it out loud." He met Midoriya's eyes, his voice wobbling a bit. "I don't want you to think that…I'm trying to somehow use you, to…to replace Eiji. That's not-"

"I don't think that." Midoriya said quickly, cupping Bakugou's cheek, petting soothing strokes with his thumb. "I've never thought that, Kaachan. I know I can't replace him, I'd never want that-"

"Before the war began, we talked about it. Both of us, we…" Bakugou searched Midoriya's eyes, clinging to his shirt, a sheen of tears glassing over his gaze. "We discussed the possibility of inviting you into our bond, more times than I can count. You're my best friend, I trust you so much, and Eiji…" Bakugou smiled and laughed, shaking his head affectionately. "He had the biggest crush on you."

Midoriya's face was crimson, and he laughed sheepishly and leaned in to press their foreheads together, Bakugou shifting to wrap his arms around Midoriya's neck, hugging him close.

"Promise me you'll never change?" Bakugou whispered, sniffing quietly against Midoriya's shoulder. "I've been so afraid, for years and years. I told myself I'd never tell you, that I wouldn't risk losing you again, not after we both worked so hard to get here."

Midoriya hummed and hugged Bakugou gently, crooning softly as he rubbed across the omega's shoulders in slow, heavy passes. "Nothing has to change, Kaachan. I love you too, I always have, but you know that already, don't you?"

Bakugou's grip around his neck tightened, and he shifted against Midoriya's shoulder with a subtle nod.

"Since you found me that rainy day, and brought me back to UA, I've forgiven you for everything that happened in our past. You've grown so much, it still amazes me."

He pressed a kiss to Bakugou's temple, murmuring against his brow.

"You made the choice to break down your walls, to reveal every part of yourself, and I've loved you with all of my heart since." Midoriya laughed softly, "A part of me has loved you since childhood. Saying so out loud, finally admitting our feelings to each other, that could never ruin us. It doesn't change what deep down I've always known."

Midoriya chuckled merrily as he pulled back to meet Bakugou's eyes.

"But it does feel amazing, hearing you say it!"

Bakugou cracked a smile, and he rolled onto his back to look up at Midoriya with a fond expression, the Alpha grinning as he took Bakugou's hand and squeezed.

"Thank you for telling me, Kaachan."

"Ugh, you're such a sap. Here-" Bakugou shifted Midoriya's hand to rest atop his belly, and immediately Midoriya crooned and began petting over his bump, "Yeah, that's right. Fulfill your duties as Alpha…"

Midoriya laughed brightly, cuddling up against Bakugou and closing his eyes, Bakugou smiling in a smug, pleased manner as he was doted upon, reaching up to rest a hand over Midoriya's heart.

"Love you." Midoriya whispered, already drifting off.

Bakugou snorted softly, shifting his other hand to rest over Midoriya's scarred knuckles, quiet for a few moments before whispering back, "Love you too, dork."

In the morning Midoriya awoke to Bakugou sleeping against his chest, his bump nestled warm and safe between them, their fingers still entwined.

This was going to be a short, angsty fic wherein Bakugou wakes from a nightmare about the war and Midoriya comforts him in Kirishima's place.

Obviously it ended up turning into something completely different.

Thanks for reading! More to come!