"Fuck! It's so damn cold," Shinsou rushed into the kitchen with Kiri trailing behind him. Glaring at the three men warm and relaxed at the table, he tugged off his jacket. "Looks like you're all having a cozy time." He stomped to the coffee pot and poured two cups.
"We were waiting on you before we ate," Sero smiled. "Wasn't like any of us could help you."
Shinsou handed a mug to Kiri and frowned. "Still, everyone's cuddled up in here." Kneeling in front of the kitchen fire, he sighed. "The storm is over but it's colder than a witch's tit out there."
"The tractor and your new hitch worked really well, Katsuki," Kiri came up behind him and bumped his back with his knees playfully. "We were able to get another layer of bedding down and the heaters are all working again in the water troughs."
"Yeah, and we gave them extra corn, speaking of which, what's for lunch?" Shinsou stood and sat at the table, shoving a chair out for his man. "I'm starving." He was appreciating that the stinging wind was no longer driving pins of ice into his skin.
"I defrosted some soup and you can have crackers or grilled cheese." Katsuki slid his chair back and headed to the stove.
"Grilled cheese sounds good." He leaned over watching him. "Is it that mushroom soup?" His nose wrinkled. He tried not to be too picky but even he had his limits.
"No, it's that vegetable soup you helped me with at the end of summer."
"Oh," Shinsou brightened and jumped up to lift the top off the pot. "This is really good," he stirred the soup. "I didn't realize we had any left."
"I froze quite a bit, since it's nice to have some fresh garden vegetables this time of year." He started piling cheese on buttered bread. "Next year we should try canning some of it."
"I can't wait to tell Mezou how much you do in the kitchen these days." Sero bounced out of his chair to pull down the dishes.
"That's right, you're gonna see him. When do you and Ochako leave?" The rich smell of the soup was making Shinsou's stomach growl loudly.
"Next week. We're staying up there over Christmas." He grinned, setting the table.
"You said you have to overcome the vending machine confession?" Shinsou smirked and his face immediately fell.
"Seriously! I said it in a rush, with everything going on… I just…," he covered his face. "Yeah. I figure if I ask her with a ring and flowers over an amazing dinner, she'll forgive me."
"Is she really that upset?" Iz looked up from his paperwork.
"What's all that?" Putting the lid back on the pot, Shinsou peeked over his shoulder.
"I never canceled the contract for the land I bought off the Tokoyami family. Now that Shouto rescinded the foreclosure and his dad dissolved the marriage contract, we can't really afford it anymore."
The smell of toasted buttered bread filled the room. Shinsou's mouth watered. "Ahhhh, I'm soooo hungry."
"Oi, sit the fuck down, it's almost ready."
Loping around the table, he skidded to a stop when an old jeep plowed through the snow into the courtyard. "Dammit," he huffed. "Why is it so fucking busy here and always at lunch?"
"A visitor?" Sero set the rest of the bowls on the table and joined him at the window.
"I'm hungry, can you go down and get rid of whoever it is?"
The jeep slid to a stop and after a moment the door opened. Someone bundled from head to toe jumped out and started up the stairs quickly.
"Can't see who it is," Shinsou groaned as he went to the door and opened it for the person racing up the stairs. "Watch out for the ice!" He yelled, causing them to pause for a moment and then proceed slower.
As they came closer, all he could see was two black eyes peering out from between a scarf piled high and a beanie pulled low. They barreled into the door and stopped short, hunching over in relief to be getting out of the cold.
"Thanks," the voice was muffled as their gloved hand began to unwind the scarf.
"Mr. Aizawa?" They laughed in unison as he pulled off his beanie.
"What are you doing here in the dead of winter?" Iz was looking at him warily.
Shinsou didn't blame him one bit. After everything that went down, any new person coming to the ranch made him skittish too. "That's a dangerous drive from the city." He sat down next to Kiri and scooted closer to him to be safe. His man immediately laid a warm hand on his leg and squeezed his thigh reassuringly.
"It was absolute hell," Aizawa took his bag off his shoulder and sat down.
"Coffee?" Katsuki handed him a cup. "You like it black?"
"That works." Not even glancing at the cup, his dark gaze landed directly on him. Shinsou's stomach exploded in a wave of nervous energy from the way Aizawa was looking at him. His tongue tied up as he tried to think of something to say, thankfully Kiri jumped in pointing to the scar on his face.
"How're you feeling?
Aizawa's hand lifted to trace the still healing wound. "I've been better," he admitted. "I'm rebuilding my house and after the surgery, recovery has been slow. I just started back to work this week and, well…" opening his bag he pulled out a thin folder. "That's what brought me here." He pushed it towards Shinsou. "It only came across my desk because of you. It's to be added to your file."
"What's that?" Shinsou flinched and Kiri gripped his leg tighter. Reaching out slowly as if it were a snake he used one finger to flip open the folder and held his breath. Inside was some paperwork along with a small picture clipped at the top of a young girl, no more than three or four years old, with long off-white hair and big doe-like eyes. Exhaling since she didn't look like a killer hot on his trail, he studied the photo closer. "Who's this?" His curiosity was piqued.
"Your half-sister."
His hand stilled.
She's dead…. mother's dead.
The voices were dimmer today and weren't creating the same anxiety they had before. But still… he hugged himself as a chill crawled through his bones. "My mom's dead," he heard the words come from his mouth. Kiri leaned into him.
"She's your father's second child."
Shinsou stared at Aizawa dumbly. "My father? He's gone, I thought he left the country before I was born… or something like that."
"Something like thatis more accurate," Aizawa sighed heavily. "Outside of your birth certificate, we have no record of him in the system. He might've changed his name at some point, we really don't know. This child was turned into protective services from an undesirable foster situation."
"Undesirable?" Shinsou fingered the picture.
"You didn't know your dad?" Kiri was focused on him, trying to read his emotions.He's worried.
Shinsou's heart started to beat too fast. "Uh," he sorted through his memories. "I don't think so."
"This girl was given up for adoption about a year ago by a third party. They found her wandering around a large shopping area. It was premeditated because they found her government issued documents inside her backpack along with some clothes. She ended up in a foster home and when that didn't work out, she was transferred to a temporary orphanage in my district."
"You cover orphanages now?" Iz sounded surprised.
"No, but I do get anything related to my parolees. Since she's from an area not connected to our mainframe, it wasn't until her data was input by the orphanage that I received a notification."
"You get stuff about me?" Shinsou could still hear himself talking…as if everything was normal.
"Rarely. You were a juvenile at the time of your arrest, your record was sealed when you turned eighteen. As your parole officer, I'm the only one that can continue to add information to a sealed record."
"Do you?" Shinsou peered up at him.
Aizawa smiled as warmly as he could. "Nothing for years."
"Oh."
"I was surprised when I saw the connection with your father's name, considering the story I'd read that he was no longer in the country." Aizawa pulled out two sheets of paper and laid them side by side. "These are you and your sister's birth certificates. Notice he is listed under 'father of the child'for both of you."
"Where is… " His eyes wandered to his mother's name, and he bit his tongue.
"Where is who? The sister or your father?"
Shinsou wasn't sure which one he meant either. Finally, he flicked the photo, "the kid."
"Still at the orphanage, she was transferred there a few weeks ago, but I was out." He took a long drink of his coffee. "I would've been here sooner otherwise."
"Why come to me?"
"Shinsou… you're her only known family. I thought you might want to at least be aware."
Hugging himself, he continued reading as the room grew silent outside of the fire crackling in the hearth. His stomach ached, he'd been so hungry just a few minutes earlier and now the thought of food made him sick.
"Is she okay?" Kiri's voice broke the quiet.
Shooting him a quick look Shinsou pursed his lips. "You mean is she crazy… like me?"
Aizawa burst out laughing.
He glared at him. "What's so funny?"
"You'renotcrazy. You've had more psychological profiles done than anyone I've ever worked with, so I know. Do you have intense trauma? Yes. Were you abused? Yes. Do you have trouble dealing with stressful situations? Yes. None of that makes you crazy." He tapped the photo. "So far she is slightly similar in that regard, though unlike you, we have no record of her early life, and she speaks very little."
Shinsou chewed on his lip. "Great, there's two of us fucked up in the world."
"She's your sister, Shin." Kiri bumped him. "Doesn't it make you happy to have a family?"
"No… just means she's got some loser cowboy brother, I mean, what can I do?"
"You are not a lo-"
"Stop." Aizawa cut off Kiri then settled his gaze on Shinsou. "You being a loser or not isn't the point. I came here because you're related to this child. If you want nothing to do with her, fine, I'll pack up and leave. Public Services will continue to take care of her."
Slowly wiggling the photo free of the paper clip, Shinsou stared at her big owl-wide eyes. She was cute even with the terrified look on her face. He understood that frightened feeling all too well, considering his first memories were being in and out of social worker's offices. "It can be really scary on your own."
"We have good people. They'll handle anything that she needs."
Shinsou snorted. "Yeah? They weren't so great for me."
Aizawa gave him a long look. "No, they weren't but-"
"But what?" Shinsou flipped the picture around for him to see. "This cute kid is gonna end up as fucked up as me because of yourpeople," he drawled out the word. "Running around with their clipboards and checkboxes. Never helps anyone.
"What then?" A black eyebrow arched. "Do you think you could do better?"
"Ha! Shit, anyone could…" Shinsou snapped his mouth shut.Sneaky bastard.
"You said it." He shrugged and picked up the folder holding out his hand for the photo.
Shinsou didn't budge. "What would I have to do?"
"As much or as little as you want. Visit her wherever she lands, let her know she's not alone or." Folding his hands he stopped deliberately.
"You're annoying." But Shinsou wanted to know. "Or what?"
"Well, since you can prove that you're next of kin, there is a possibility they would give you guardianship."
The words fell like a ton of bricks over his head. "Me?" He croaked out and snorted at the same time.
Aizawa tipped his head and narrowed his eyes. "You said anyone could do a better job. Doesn't that include you?"
"Hell no!"
Picking up his coffee, Aizawa took a sip, his dark eyes studying him over the rim, then very slowly and deliberately he set down his mug and leaned forward. "Shin, do you remember the day that Inko walked into my office and gave you a chance?"
"Yeah."
"Did you know she was scared as hell to take in a teenager? It took a lot of courage for her to step outside her own fears."
Shinsou squirmed uncomfortably. "What's that got to do with the kid?"
"You said it yourself, in ten years she'll be you. What if you could give her the same chance that Inko gave you?"
"It's not the same!" He huffed, but his heart twisted seeing her small face in the picture.
"What would we need to do to get guardianship?" Kiri tapped the photo. "Ifthat was something Shin decided," he added quickly.
"W-Wait," Shinsou needed things to slow down. "I mean, maybe I can go visit her at the orphanage and stuff."
"That would be a start," Aizawa nodded. "And more than she has now."
"If you did that and you connected." Kiri's voice softened and the meaning was clear. He would support his decision.
Shinsou stared at him for a moment. "You… you'd really want a kid?"
"Like you said," Kiri shrugged. "Start with a visit, but I want you to know whatever you decide I'm behind you."
So…" Shinsou chewed on his lip nervously. "Would I have to take a test of some kind? Get some kind of license? That is…" he sucked in a sharp breath, "if…"
Aizawa flashed him a smile and laughed lightly. "Ah, no, unfortunately it's easier than that to get custody. Although you'd have to interview with them, and they would want to come see your living situation," he glanced at Kiri. "The stability of a two-person household is good and your job is long term." Picking up his bag he slid the folder back across the table. Kiri opened it this time.
Iz coughed, getting his attention. "I'd be willing to show his ownership in the ranch, write a letter or something."
"You think I should do this too?" Shinsou gaped at him.
Had they all gone nuts?
"I'm not really sure, Shin," Iz frowned. "This is a big decision, but the thought of your sister out there alone. Sounds like she could use you."
"I - I…"
"We can't tell you what to do, Shin." Sero reached over and patted his arm. "She's your family. Like Kiri said though, whatever you decide, we're here for you."
Swallowing hard, he started to read through the kid's information again. "Her birthday's coming up." He commented more to himself than anyone.
"Yes, she turns five in a few days."
"So little," Shinsou breathed out. "I wouldn't even know how a five-year-old acts."
"Probably not much different from you," Aizawa deadpanned.
Letting out an irritated snort, he read the rest of the file. There wasn't much. She'd been sent to foster care that had only lasted one year. "What happened with the home?"
"There are strict rules around what foster parents are allowed to do and not do, the parent broke several of the rules and while your sister appeared to be okay, they chose to end the situation."
"I guess that was kind of lucky, since she was sent here." Shinsou was trying to say the right things, but his nerves were a tangled mess.
He had a kid sister out there all alone.
"Listen, why don't you come and meet her. Start there. But you should do that as soon as possible."
"Why?"
Aizawa sighed. "This is a temporary shelter. Kids are shuffled in and out. If she's moved, you could end up having to fly to wherever she goes next. I can place a stop on a transfer for a while but only for a legal reason, such as an application of guardianship."
Flipping to the next page he read the doctor's notes, and his stomach plummeted. "She has nightmares?"
"Yes, the social worker assigned to her says she won't talk about them."
"Oh." He could understand that too. As a kid, whenever he said anything about his nightmares, they just gave him funny looks and wrote on their clipboards.
Aizawa thinned his lips and folded his hands on the table. "This wouldn't be easy Shinsou, and it could drum up some negative feelings from your past that could be difficult for you emotionally."
"We could find a therapist, maybe someone that could help you both out," Kiri offered.
"I need that?"
"Only if you want."
Shinsou stared at the wisp of a girl. "When would I need to submit my stuff if I decide?"
"I have everything I need from your file. So, just the letter from Iz."
"What, um… what about my record?" Kiri sounded almost embarrassed.
"I have one too," Shinsou quipped.
"Well, yours is sealed Shin." Aizawa nodded towards Kiri, "I think we can easily get around that, especially with the number of years you've been working here." His mouth twisted into a frown. "Being on the ranch might be a challenge."
"Why?"
"Well Shin, this isn't really a family home, but maybe we can come up with something."
"Hey Iz," Kiri leaned forward.
"Yeah?"
"I know the valley is kinda strict about owning land here, but do you think we could convince the Tokoyumi family to let you transfer the sale of that lot to me and Shin?"
"Oh," Iz brightened and handed Aizawa a piece of paper. "I bet they would!"
"What's this?"
"It's a contract for a property at the edge of town," Kiri squeezed Shinsou's hand. "I think it'd be good for us to have our own place, no matter what decision you make."
Exhaling loudly, Shinsou set the picture down. Life was going to change no matter how hard he tried to keep it the same. "I did say I'd go anywhere with you." He laid his head on his shoulder. "I guess a few miles down the road isn't so bad." Shinsou picked up the photo of the girl and thumbed her face. She barely even looked old enough to be alive. "What do five-year olds even like to do?"
"I liked to ride horses," Iz smiled.
"Horses?"
"Sure, my mom bought me my first pony when I turned five."
"What else?" Everyone just frowned and shook their heads.
Swinging around in his chair, he eyed Katsuki. "You know how to make kid food?"
He laughed, picked up a plate and, uncovering his grilled cheese, slid it in front of him. "Like this?" He clicked his tongue. "Same shit you eat."
"Not shit," Shinsou frowned. "Couldn't cuss anymore either." He chomped down on the sandwich not caring that he was the only one with food. His stomach hurt and the damn cheese smelled amazing. Chewing slowly, he watched Aizawa pick up the folder, as he reached for the photo, he jerked it away. "Mime," he muffled and then swallowed his food.
Letting out an irritated sigh, Aizawa tucked everything else in his bag. "Let me know what you want to do."
Playing with the picture, Shinsou could remember vividly the feelings of fear and helplessness of being shuttled around when he was her age. The sleepless nights that had left him tired and cranky, only to be misunderstood by everyone.
What would happen to her? Would she end up in juvie too?
His heart ached at the thought. Shinsou dropped his sandwich and slammed the picture down on the table. "I wanna see her now!" Turning, he gripped Kiri's hand like the lifeline that it was and begged. "Is that okay? Can we?"
Smiling wide, Kiri pulled him into his arms and hugged him. "Whatever you want, Shin. You know I'll move heaven and earth if I can for you."
Shinsou couldn't help the nervous laughter bubbling up as a hot blush rushed into his cheeks. "Thanks," his stomach quieted as a coil of resolve unfurled.His sister was alone and needed him.Pulling back from Kiri's embrace, he gripped his face tightly. "I want to see her now, Kiri. Today if we can."
"Today?" Kiri glanced at Aizawa. "You heard him, we wanna see her today."
Shinsou tried to keep from giggling.He had a sister.
"That's impossible." Aizawa snapped.
"I mean I wanna go visit her as soon as possible. Maybe…" he whispered. "I.." he squeezed Kiri and corrected himself. "I mean,wecould be there on her birthday. Let her know she has a family."
"Are you sure?" Aizawa tapped the folder on the table.
"Yeah," Shinsou sucked in a deep breath and locked eyes with Kiri. "We're sure."
Kiri smoothed his shirt and waited for Shin. He was still in the bathroom getting ready. Thankfully the day was nice. It was cold, but the early spring sun was shining. Most of the snow had melted and what was left was squished against the main buildings.
"Okay, okay," Shin walked into the living room. Turning to see him, Kiri tried not to laugh. Stopping, Shin frowned and touched his now slicked back hair. "Do I look that bad?"
"No," Kiri coughed as he walked over to hug him. "You look very responsible."
Sighing loudly, he slumped in his arms. "Kiri," he whined. "I'm a nervous wreck."
"Why? We've been to the orphanage so many times they about think we live there, and our application has been approved. This is just a formality."
"No," he shook his head, "this is her first time here. What if she doesn't like the ranch?"
"Then we decide as a family what to do next."
Shin threw his arms around him and hugged him. "Thanks," he whispered and fidgeted with the hair at the nape of his neck. "I'm still nervous as shit though." He let out a sharp huff and slapped his hand over his mouth.
Chuckling Kiri pointed to the jar on the table, with the sign Shin had taped on right after they'd met Eri that read,No Swearing. "Looks like you're the main contributor."
"Yeah, yeah." Pulling his wallet out of his pocket, he dropped money into the growing pile. "Katsuki is definitely filling his jar faster than ours though."
"He sure is." Kiri saw the car pull into the courtyard through the window. Walking to the door, he pulled down their coats and held his out for him. Shin's face went stark white as he struggled to put his arms in the sleeves. "It'll be okay," Kiri helped him. "She's gonna love it here." Opening the door, he grabbed Shin's hand and led him out into the bright morning. The air was perfect, just cold enough to pinch your cheeks but with enough sun to take away the sting.
The social worker they had met at the orphanage stepped out from behind the wheel and waved as she opened the back door.
"Hi Itsuka. Did you have a nice drive?" Kiri squeezed Shin's hand.
"We did," she smiled and looked around the ranch as Eri hopped down.
She had on a simple red coat and backpack. Her long hair was tied up in twin ponytails that hung down over her shoulders.
"Looks like you packed for the day," Kiri knelt to be eye-level with her. "It's good to see you, Eri." She smiled shyly, then looking past him at Shin, her eyes lit up, but she remained standing completely still. Peering over his shoulder, Kiri could see Shin was staring at her with a similar expression but stood just as stiffly.
These two.
Kiri exchanged a knowing glance with the social worker. Up until now they'd met Eri at the orphanage and Shin had merely tagged along seeing her world. The two had hit it off right away, but both were so nervous that they rarely said much. Now that Eri was here, he hoped they would break out of their awkward phase.
Itsuka smiled encouragingly. "Eri, why don't you show your brother the book you found."
She hesitated, but finally slid off the backpack and unzipped it very slowly. Reaching in, she dug around and pulled out a small hardbound book.
"What's that?" Shin seemed to break from his spell. She held it up for them to see, it was a book of farm animals. "Ohhhh!" He laughed and walked over, kneeling next to Kiri as she flipped through the pages.
"I think she was hoping to see some of these animals today."
"Oh sure," Shin pointed to a picture of ducks in a pond. "These animals are the worst, but super funny, wanna start with them?" Her eyes grew two sizes bigger, and she nodded so hard, her ponytails bounced over her shoulders. Shin held out his hand and she quickly put her backpack on, tentatively placing her hand in his.
"Which way?" Itsuka spun in a circle.
"Just follow them," Kiri stepped in behind the pair as they strolled through the barn, Shin had started talking, telling her all about the animals. Kiri smiled as he listened. The ranch was his safe place. Here he could be himself.
Eri's head was a swivel looking at the horses as they made their way down to the duck pen. There, Shin scooped some grain and showed Eri how to toss it through the mesh wire fence. Of course, the ducks figured out what was going on immediately and beelined for them. The whole flock plastered themselves against the fencing, squawking and beating their wings so hard, a hurricane of feathers flew up in the air. Eri dropped her grain and grabbed Shin's leg, hiding behind him.
"Shoo!" He yelled and threw his grain further in the pen. As a mass they spun around and attacked the area. "Sorry, Eri." Shin laughed. "They're a bit stir crazy because of the weather. Usually, they roam the fields. Probably best to steer clear of them for another month." He tugged gently on a ponytail. "Want me to carry you?" He looked nervous once the words were out of his mouth, but she nodded and raised her arms. Laughing, he tossed her up onto his hip and headed to the goat pen to introduce her to all the goats.
"This is a wonderful home," Itsuka leaned closer to Kiri, her voice low.
"I think so," Kiri agreed. "We'll start building our own place on the land we bought next month, but until then, we hope Eri will want to live here."
"Oh, she does."
"She does?" Kiri was surprised, everything up until this point had been so sterile and by the book, they'd both wondered.
"I know she doesn't talk that much, but these past three months have been a miracle for her. I think she's scared you're both going to disappear." Itsuka gave him a small smile. "She was so nervous about coming here."
"And he's scared she won't want to live here." They both laughed softly as Shin continued through the livestock area with Eri holding her book held high as they found all the animals. She was pointing to something that made Shin laugh and turn around.
"Hey Kiri!"
"Yeah?"
"Eri wants to know about ponies," he winked and started for the barn. "Kiri is the one in charge of that surprise."
"What surprise?" Itsuka tried to catch up as they practically ran up the hill and into the barn.
Setting Eri down on the bench, Shin sat next to her and kicked out his legs. "We have a surprise for you, but Kiri did all the work. I think it's only fair if he shows you."
"Wait there," Kiri lifted a halter off the hook and headed to the stall with their newest addition. He'd searched a long time for this particular breed and found one not too far away for sale. Sliding the halter onto the pony, he led the mare out and positioned her far enough from Eri so that she wouldn't be scared. Petting the beautiful chestnut, Kiri scratched the perfect star in the center of her forehead.
"Have you ever heard of Icelandic ponies?" Shin pointed to the pony.
Eri was sitting completely gobsmacked, clutching her book. "No," she breathed out reverently, her eyes locked onto the small horse.
"These ponies are the best, especially for young children." Kiri laughed as Eri practically vibrated from excitement, amazingly she kept herself calm. That was something that had grated on Kiri ever since he met her. Someone had obviously told her too many times to be quiet and sit still. "It's good to not get too boisterous around her." He decided a compliment was the best route.
"It's a girl?" Her voice trembled with happiness.
"Yep, and in time, you can learn how to ride her."
That was it.
She let out a squeal and flung herself at Shin. The pony gave her a curious look and then munched on whatever was left in its mouth.
"You like her?" Shin was beaming at him, silently thanking him.
The kid never stood a chance.Kiri had known the pony was the clincher, which was why he'd been trying to find the right one. Not that he'd thought there was a question, but he wanted them both to be happy.
"C - Can I pet her?" She peeked back at him.
"You can." Standing Shin walked her towards the pony.
Reaching up, she stroked the tips of the long mane with her fingers. "What's her name?"
"You get to name her," Kiri ruffled the pony's forelock.
Wide eyes turned up to him and Eri pursed her lips. "Can I… think about it?"
The answer surprised him, most five-year-olds would have blurted out some silly name but he could see the seriousness with which she was giving thought to the pony's name.
"It's good to think about it," Shin agreed. "This is the name your horse will have for a long time." Going into the tack room, he came out with a few brushes. Soon Eri was carefully grooming the pony, while still holding on to Shin's hand. The mare was every bit as good as Bombshell, falling asleep while Eri patted and cooed over her.
Itsuka tapped Kiri and looked at her watch.
"Oh," he frowned, an hour had gone by so quickly. "I guess it's time to go soon." He could see both Eri and Shin's faces fall. "Itsuka, do you have time to have lunch with us? Shin made something special."
"You did?" Eri's shyness had all but dissolved from their time grooming the pony.
"I did," Shin gave Itsuka a pleading look.
"Well, we'd have to stop on the way back for something anyway," she bit her lip. "It is only supposed to be an hour, but…" she blushed a soft red. "It seems things are going well." She grinned, "okay."
"Thank you!" Shin and Eri yelled at the same time, then both started laughing. Packing up the brushes, Kiri put the pony away and they walked up to the kitchen.
"Is this where you normally eat?" Itsuka walked around the large kitchen.
"Yeah, we have a cook but there are kitchens in our cabins." Shin tipped his head as he ladled the soup. "We'd show you where you'll be living but we're moving."
"You are?" Itsuka frowned.
"Just swapping cabins. Our foreman has a big three-bedroom home and offered it to us," Kiri walked to the window and pointed to Sero's place. "It's much bigger and can be made private. We're going to be putting up fencing since we do have new ranch hands that join our program and per the interviews, they thought it would be better for us to be separated."
"Oh, I thought that was another home on the property." Itsuka nodded approvingly and pulled a notepad out her pocket to jot down some notes.
"It'll be better for Eri and like I mentioned, we're building a house on our new property. Right next to town, so it's close."
"Lunch!" Shin yelled out proudly and set down huge bowls of chicken noodle soup with a stack of crackers. "Would you prefer these or grilled cheese?"
"I like crackers," Eri picked one up and munched on it.
"Hmmmm," Shin mumbled. "Need to work on your food choices."
Sitting down they started to eat. Shin, a habitual slurper, was trying to be quiet and not suck the noodles up in his usual manner. Eri, however, was clearly not as careful and began to slurp. Hearing that, Shin laughed and immediately started to suck down his own noodles even louder, until they both were giggling like idiots.
"I think this was a success," Itsuka smiled.
"Yep," Kiri mused, they were a definite pair.
Kiri sat down as Shinsou fizzled out onto the couch going as limp as a rag doll. "Man, that was so nerve wracking, but it turned out great." Shin tipped his head back to see him. "Did you think it turned out great? I think it did, really clutch on the pony. I wasn't sure about introducing them today. Man, she's so great… Do you think it went good?"
Kiri sat quietly, listening to his nervous energy release.
"What?" Shinsou hit him again. "Say something."
"Was just waiting to talk," he teased.
"Nerves," Shin shook out his hands. "You know me."
Reaching out, Kiri brushed his fingers along his cheek. His skin was still cool from standing outside, saying goodbye to Eri. "I think it went really well."
"So, next we move to Sero's place, and she comes to live with us on a trial basis." Shin was tapping his boot on the floor.
"Yeah, that's what Itsuka mentioned. Sounds like she could be here next month."
"Wow," Shin sighed. "I mean…" He let out a long breath. "Is this really going to happen?"
"Isn't this what you wanted?" He sure as hell hoped he wasn't changing his mind after all they'd gone through in the last three months. "Eri is counting on us Shin, you can't just-"
"Wait!" He shot up and jumped into his lap, the stuffed chair groaned under their combined weight.
"Shin! Ouch!" Kiri jerked as his knees and elbows jabbed him in all his soft spots.
"I want Eri." Shin grabbed his face and kissed him. "I promise… I just." He sighed again heavily.
"You just, what?" Kiri began to nibble on his mouth.
"We've got a lot to do, and I guess I'm realizing it won't be the two of us anymore."
"Yeah, that's true but we talked about this. We'll still be working together and once Eri settles in, we'll have trail rides and short overnights to be alone. She seemed to like everyone else when they came to meet her. I bet uncles Iz and Katsuki would babysit, not to mention Sero and Ochako." He smiled and tried to ruffle his gel slicked hair.
"Right." Shin blushed and bit his lip.
"Why?"
"I guess we'll have to be careful with, uh… sex and stuff."
Kiri kissed him along his jawline and thumbed his ear, gently tugging on his earlobe. Shin shuddered and gripped him. Kiri grinned, his ears were his weakness. He began to stroke his other ear with his finger. "Yeah, but we'll figure it all out eventually."
"Kiri…" he was pouting.
"Mmmm," he started licking his ear, enjoying the small tremors that vibrated down Shin's body.
"We won't be able to have sex… like… in the kitchen."
Kiri stopped mid-nibble and laughed softly. "Do youwantto have sex in the kitchen?"
He shrugged and blushed a deeper red, shoving his face into his chest. Cupping his chin, Kiri pulled his head back up. "Shin?" He wouldn't look him in the eyes. "Alright," Kiri drawled softly. "Why don't we have sex in the kitchen?"
"Now?!" Shin yelped and pointed to the open window. "It's the middle of the day! Someone will see us."
"Who? Everyone left to give us time alone with Eri, I don't even think Sero is coming back until tomorrow."
"Oh."
Patting his ass, he scooted to the edge of the chair. "C'mon," he kissed him on the neck and nuzzled his warm skin, feeling his pulse beat wildly. "Let's have sex in the kitchen, just like you want."
"O - Okay." Getting up off his lap awkwardly, Shin tried to close the curtain, but Kiri pulled him into their kitchen.
Shin was a complete flirt and loved sex, but he had a shy side too, which was a complicated mixture. The fact that he'd openly suggested doing this was spinning Kiri's top, but he needed to get him focused on something fast so that he would stop worrying. Unbuttoning his shirt, Kiri tugged it loose from his jeans and let it hang open. He knew Shin couldn't resist his chest and exactly as he thought, he lunged at him and tangled his fingers into his thick hair.
"Feels good, Shin." He slid his hands down his sides and into the waistband of his jeans, he could already see the rigid outline of his erection pressing against the fabric. Grunting, he dropped down to his knees.
"Wait, Kiri," he peeked back towards the window.
"No one's here, babe." Unbuckling his belt, he pressed his mouth against the bulge in his jeans, which was bigger now. Shin's fingers dug into his hair.
"But…"
Looking up he licked his lips slowly as he popped open his jean buttons, one at a time, slowly. Shin caught his breath, his eyes flaring wide. Sticking out his tongue, Kiri never broke eye contact as he licked him through his underwear.
"Fuck…" he glanced at the jar.
"Shin!" his eyes snapped back to him. "You can cuss all you want right now." he licked him again, the rough fabric felt erotic as it dragged under his tongue. Shin was gulping in air watching him, transfixed. Pulling the elastic of his underwear back with his finger, Kiri teased the crown of his cock with his tongue.
"Kiri," he breathed out and clenched his hair tightly, groaning. Thrusting his hips into his face, Shin bucked against him. "Suck me… please."
Chuckling, Kiri managed to drag his pants and underwear down his legs even though Shin had him smashed against his cock and wasn't letting him go. "My needy man." Licking him from the base of his rigid shaft to the tip, he wrapped his lips around him and slid his mouth down the entire length.
Shin's body shuddered and he wobbled slightly as his knees buckled. Grabbing him by the ass, Kiri kept sucking as he swung him around so that he could lean against the kitchen table. Eyeing the flat surface, he knew that was exactly where he was going to bend Shin over and fuck him once he was done. His cock throbbed mercilessly with that thought and he took his whole length into his mouth until he could feel the tip of his dick bumping the back of his throat and sucked, hard.
"Shit… ahhh Kiri." He tugged on his hair and thrust into his face. "Relax…" Shin whined softly.
Kiri relaxed his jaw and this time his cock moved into his throat. Shin cried out and his thrusting grew faster and more erratic. Trying to ignore his gag reflex, Kiri breathed through his nose and let him throat fuck him. It didn't take long, Shin moaned low and yanked his hair hard, pulling him off his dick. Doubling over, he came, streams of cum splattering across Kiri's chest, clinging in clumps to his thick hair.
Running a finger through the gooey mess, he stood, holding Shin until his breathing returned to normal. "Turn around," he grabbed his waist and spun him around, finally unbuttoning his own jeans.
"Wait," Shin slapped his hands away. "Kiri! Lube!"
"Fuck, I can barely walk," his cock was so hard, it was swollen red, the tip almost purple. "Look." He held up his fingers. "I can use your cum."
"Hell no!" He put his hand over his ass and glared at him. "Lube or all you get is a hand job, your choice. Off limits until then."
Leaning down he kissed him on the small of his back. "You're a mean man." Slapping one side of his ass cheek, he chuckled. "Don't move." Going into their bedroom, he grabbed the lube and squirted a huge amount over his cock as he walked back out. "This okay?"
"Y-Yeah." Shin was peeking over his shoulder, still in the same spot.
"Good boy," he slapped him again.
"Don't hit me."
Squeezing more lube into his hand, Kiri rubbed it all over his ass. "You're fun to tease Shin, what else can I do?"
His eyes narrowed and he wiggled his hips. "Fuck me instead."
Kiri almost came.
"You say that kinda shit to me and I can't be gentle." Sliding in two fingers without hesitation, Shin cried out at the sudden intrusion.
"Okay… fuck… Kiri." His hands gripped the edge of the table, his back arching beautifully.
Shoving another finger in Kiri knew he was being too forceful but damn if his ass wasn't sucking him in deeper. His cock was twitching and bouncing trying to get into the action. "Shin, fuck, I'm sorry but.. gotta.."
"Yessss," he breathed out. "I said fuck me!"
That was all he needed. Lining up his cock to his perfect hole, he thrust into him in one stroke, the feel of his warm tightness almost making him cum. Shin's chest jerked off the table as he groaned loudly. Hugging him, Kiri kissed his neck and bit down on his shoulder, his ass spasmed around his dick.
"Kiri," Shin clawed at his arms, his nails raking across his skin.
Thrusting into him, Kiri knew he wouldn't last long, his man was just too fucking hot. He needed a better angle to hit Shin's prostate and get him off before he blew. Bending him back over the table, Kiri sank his dick into him slowly, relishing in Shin's gasps and moans that echoed in their cabin. As he slid out, he reached around and began to stroke his cock. Fucking him slowly as he jerked him off.
"Yes… fffffu," Shin's words melted into groans as his body jerked several times and cum splattered across the kitchen tile.
"My turn," Kiri slammed into him one last time and then pulled out to stroke himself, until he knew he was at the edge. "Shin, I love you." He gasped. Shin peered at him from over his shoulder, purple eyes still hazy from his orgasm and that's all it took. Grunting, he came hard, watching it splatter across his ass. Panting he fell over him, pinning him to the table. "Shin…" he kissed the back of his neck.
He wiggled underneath him. "You're heavy."
Propping himself up on his elbows, he kissed his neck again and followed with more kisses along his shoulder. "Did that help?"
Shin turned to look at him, his brow wrinkled. "Help what?"
"You were worried we'd never have sex in the kitchen."
"Oh," he smiled. "Yeah…" he arched up, his back against him. "I wanna go cuddle."
"In the middle of the day?"
"Kiri," Shin was using his best'I'm the boss' tone."After Eri gets here, when can we do that?"
"When have we ever done that? There're chores to do."
"Thirty minutes."
"Ten."
"Forty," Shin begged.
"Five."
"Okay! Okay!" He laughed and shoved him off of him. "Twenty."
"Fifteen," Kiri kissed him. "No more negotiations."
"Okay, but only after we get into bed can you start the clock."
"What else are you going to do?"
"Shower." He gave him his wide-eyed puppy dog look.
"Two-minute shower or I will start to take it off your cuddle time."
"SHIT! KIRI!" Racing for the bathroom, he turned on the water dancing as he waited for it to heat up. "This isn't fair!" Jumping in he started washing off.
Walking into the shower behind him Kiri hugged him, the hot water spraying over his body.
"Kiri! Stop, I need to shower." He hit him with his washcloth
"You know," he kissed his wet skin. "When Eri lives with us, it might be hard to have sex in the shower."
S hin paused and then laughed. "You might be right." Spinning around in his arms, he kissed him. "And maybe the living room?"
"Yep," Kiri sucked along his collarbone. "Definitely the living room."
Groaning Shin, let out a long sigh. "Too bad we have chores to do…"
Biting him, Kiri shook his head. "I forgot, I already did them."
"You jerk," grabbing his face, he planted a hard kiss on his lips.
Plopping down on a bench in the huge plaza of his school, Mirio watched a pick-up game of soccer being played in the main field. The sun had been shining all week and the frost had melted leaving the grass brown and soggy, but no one cared as they took advantage of the warmth while it lasted.
A sudden prickling along his neck caused him to look around. Someone was watching him. Covering his mouth, he hid his laugh.Damn…he was getting better.
He'd seen Shouto twice since that day and both times he'd sent him back to the valley with the command that he had to text him a picture of his odometer before and after to prove he'd driven there. He'd sent the pictures both times and since then, vanished.
Well not completely.
Mirio could almost always tell when he was around, but try as he might, he couldn't find him.
Then… about a month ago, Shouto had really upped his game. He'd come home to find a plain envelope stuffed under his door. Inside he found pictures of himself. All at odd angles. Him at his job, walking on the street, in his truck, or here at school.
It'd become a game with them now.
Every day, he would run home to see what new picture would be there. Then he'd strip and walk naked right by the open window to plop onto his couch and masturbate imagining him out there, somewhere, watching.
I'm so fucked up.
He'd always known he was a bit on the strange side and finding someone like Shouto, who was just as fucked up, made them perfect for each other. At some point he'd have to decide what to do with him.
His sister had told him about Iz and the ranch being saved, and he was relieved that Shouto had never told him the reason he'd come to the city that day.
Nezu still bought out Shindou Industries. Although Mirio thought he was crazy for shelling out any cash to them, but it was his fucking money. They'd called a meeting for all the ranchers soon after, and he'd driven back to be a part of the vote. The decision was to hold off on building the water plant until they could decide what to do with the aquifer, since Iz had shown up and offered to put it in a land trust with all of them. No one would have single rights to the water.
Mirio was happy that it was over for the time being, and was honestly glad that he didn't have to vote no on the plant. He and his family had decided to dig in and not give up. They liked the valley the way it was.
Enji had been there with Fuyumi and of all people, Natsuo. That had shocked him, and so had the fact that Shouto was noticeably absent. Fuyumi had met with him afterward and explained that he'd decided to skip the meetings until things settled down.
"Can we sit with you?" Two women who looked intent on watching the game interrupted his thoughts.
"Oh, here," he stood and offered his spot. "I have to get going."
"Thank you!" They sat and pulled out their lunches.
Walking towards the end of campus, he enjoyed the feel of the sun on his back and let his gaze wander over each person he passed. If Shouto was lurking, he was well hidden.
Turning for his place, someone fell in step beside him. Staring down at the ground, he hunched over and tried to go faster. The person matched his stride. Glancing over, he stopped and laughed. It was Shouto.
"Hey Mirio." He blushed and smiled.
Narrowing his eyes, Mirio cocked a brow.
"I know," Shouto rubbed the back of his neck and laughed softly. "I have to drive back to the valley and send a picture."
"You were going home anyway, weren't you?" He asked suspiciously.
"No," he shook his head. "I swear, I just… wanted to talk to you." Mirio grinned and started walking again. Shouto caught up and lifted his backpack off his shoulder. "Can I carry this for you?"
Letting go, Mirio pulled off his coat. He was suddenly very warm. "What time will I get my picture of your odometer?" No reason to let him off the hook, even if he was being cute. This was still Shouto Todoroki.
"Oh… uh after you go to work."
"What time's my shift?"
His face burned red. "In two hours."
"What's my section?"
"Tables seven through fifteen, unless it's slow then you get most of the shop to yourself."
Mirio gave him a quick look. "How much in tips did I make last night?"
He tripped as his face paled. "I… um… I'm not sure."
"You're a shitty stalker Todoroki."
"Really? I thought I was doing pretty good."
"You owe me."
"Two trips to the valley?" He sounded panicked.
"Nope. Follow me." Grabbing his hand he shot across the street, dragging him along just as the light started to change. "You owe me sushi," he stopped in front of his favorite restaurant. "This place is too expensive for me." He pushed open the door and waited for him.
"What makes you think I have money?"
"You don't?" Mirio frowned playfully. "What good are you to me then?"
"I'm good at carrying backpacks." He gave him a sheepish smile and lifted his bag off his shoulder.
Mirio laughed and the warmth kicked up a notch. "Okay, how about we split the bill?" A wide smile settled on Shouto's face, lighting up his beautiful eyes. Mirio drank in his expression and his heart thrummed happily in that moment. As Shouto walked past him, he reached out and touched his arm. He stopped startled and looked at him questioningly. Mirio just smiled. "I'm glad you broke my rule today."
"Me too," he bumped him. "Thanks."
"Well, as I always say, you should wait to thank me." He chuckled, following him inside. "You might regret it."
Casting him a side-long glance, Shouto tipped his head. "There's only one thing I regret when it comes to you."
"Yeah?" Mirio sat at the table and picked up his chopsticks. "What's that?" Shouto bit his lip and smirked, looking so fucking sexy that Mirio had to dump his napkin into his lap to hide his now very hard dick.
"Nope, not telling," Shouto shook his head and grinned. "That's my secret."
"Secret?" Mirio tapped his chopsticks on his plate. "Not with me, that's not allowed."
"Then I guess you'll just have to figure out how to make me tell you." His eyes gleamed mischievously. He was too much. Mirio glanced around and noticed the bathroom sign in the back of the restaurant and cocked a brow at him. Shouto's eyes followed where he was looking then snapped back to him, wide with understanding. "No!" He hissed out, eyeing the few tables with people. "Mirio, not here."
"No? No, what? You said to make you tell me." Mirio stood up and hooked him with his arm, pulling him from his chair.
"We have to order our food!" He was clinging to the chair which was doing little to help him.
Mirio waved at the waitress. "We'll have two of the regular lunch combos, his with cold noodles." Nodding, she headed back to the kitchen. Leaning close to his ear, he squeezed Shouto's arm tight enough that he winced. "Decide right here. You like me the way I am, and I do the same with you, or we eat lunch and go our separate ways." Mirio's heart froze in his chest waiting for his answer,had he gone too far…but then Shouto's face softened, and he pressed into Mirio's body seductively.
He wanted to fuck him right there for everyone to see… this man was his.
"Do you think the door has a lock?" Shouto was trying to hide his nervousness, but he could feel his body trembling.
"For your sake, I hope it does…but," Mirio chuckled, "for mine. I hope it doesn't."
"Are we almost there?" Eri's sleepy voice was muffled against Izuku's coat.
Patting the helmet on her head he laughed. "You just asked that when we passed through the pasture, remember? A bit further."
"Are Shin and Kiri already there?" She unwrapped her arms from around him and poked his chin.
"They are."
She glanced over at her pony that Sero was leading next to SoySauce. "Can I ride by myself?"
"I think for part of the way back that would be okay. You've been practicing a lot."
"Hey Katsuki," Sero leaned back to see him on the other side of Izuku. "Ochako and I will help you get out the food."
"Why? So you can eat everything?" He clicked his tongue. "I got it, no help needed."
"Can I help?" Eri squeezed her head under Izuku's arm to peep at him.
"Of course you can."
Izuku laughed and swung around to see Kacchan grinning like a goofball. "You've got him wrapped around your finger," he squeezed her shoulders gently.
"Uh, just him?" Ochako clucked to Bombshell to keep up with them. "Everyone falls over themselves for her on this ranch." She beamed at Eri, "including me." She giggled. "I'm excited that we're going shopping for your school clothes after this!"
"Eri, I'm coming too," Sero winked, "gotta make sure you get some sensible clothes for the ranch too." Eri clenched Izuku tighter.
"Are you nervous about school?" Izuku could feel her fingers wiggling in response.
"No." But her voice was small and tight.
"Well, today's a day to celebrate and we can talk about school another day."
"Speaking of which," Kacchan maneuvered Jack to the front, "we're here."
"We are?" She spun her head around excitedly, eyes wide as they rode through the pass.
The early fog was already breaking up as the first of the sun's rays were beginning to filter over the mountains. "Shin!" Eri screeched as soon as they saw them both ahead on the plateau.
"Eri!" He held up his arms and ran over to them, plucking her from Iz's arms. "Hey sissy, how are you? Did you have a good ride?"
"It's tooooo early," she curled up in his arms and yawned.
"We have to be here for the best time of day."
"How long before you wanna start?" Ochako moved Bombshell over to the side.
"Sunrise is in fifteen minutes. You made it just in the nick of time." Kiri walked Riot and Medusa up to the middle of the open area.
"Sorry, about that…" Iz eyed Eri pointedly.
"I can imagine." Shinsou laughed. Eri wasn't much of a morning person yet. "You ready?" He tapped her helmet.
"I am!"
"Big question though, is Sugar ready?" he walked over to her pony and set her gently into the saddle.
"She is," Eri patted the pony's neck. "Do you like what we did?" Her mane had been braided and flowers entwined through her thick hair.
"Did you do this?" He touched one of the flowers.
"Iz and Ochako helped me."
Giving her a quick kiss, he turned back and winked at them. "That's a nice touch."
"I am your flower pony girl," she giggled.
"You got the rings?" Nodding her head, she pulled the velvet box out of her jacket pocket. "Good girl." Leading Sugar to stand by their horses. He smiled wide at Kiri and felt his heart picking up speed as he mounted Medusa.
It was finally here.
The day they'd been planning since Eri had arrived on the ranch.
"Everyone ready?" Kiri smiled at him and reached out his hand. Shinsou was so happy, tears blurred his vision for a moment as he put his hand on top of his, Kiri squeezed him tight. The others had maneuvered their horses to form a semi-circle behind them.
The rays of the sun began to crest over the mountain and its bright golden warmth flooded over the aquifer. They sat holding hands as the mountain and lakes lit up like they were on fire.
"I love you Hitoshi Shinsou."
"And I love you Eijiro Kirishima."
Once the sun had crested over and broken past the mountain, Shinsou gestured to Eri, who solemnly handed him the ring box. Pushing open the lid, he plucked a gleaming metal band from the velvet holder and carefully slid it on his finger. "With every breath," he whispered. "I love you and I'm yours."
Kiri took out the other ring and put it on his finger. The feel of the cool metal was hard as it nestled against his skin. Solid. Like his man.
"Shin, I've loved you for so long now." He sighed. "Spent so many hours here with you. I can't imagine not being with you. No matter where we go… I'll be by your side." He kissed his fingers, his soft lips pressing firmly against his skin. "I love you."
Tears welled in his eyes and somewhere behind him he heard laughing and crying. Leaning over, they kissed, sealing their vows to each other.
S itting back, he looked over the valley below. The sun was rising quickly, and the fog had almost disappeared as the warmth of the day began to thaw the cool morning. It seemed only fitting considering the man he'd married was just like the sun, warming every corner of his life.
"Look this way!" Ochako was snapping photos like crazy. Turning, he plucked Eri from her saddle.
She squealed as he held her between them and the picture was taken.
"Uncle Kazki?"
Hearing Eri's thin voice from where he lay under the car, Katsuki grabbed the bottom of the engine and wheeled himself out from under the truck. "Over here." Grabbing a rag, he wiped his hands. He could hear her making her way over to the bay. Stopping at the yellow tape he'd laid on the ground, she folded her hands and waited.
Laughing, he stood and swept her up in his arms. "That was perfect."
"Never cross the yellow lines." Eri recited what he'd taught her.
"Yep." He stopped at the mini kitchen, set her down and pulled down a jar.
"Oh!" She held out her hand expectantly. "Doodles!"
Pausing dramatically, he looked out the window. "You didn't bring the enemy, did you?"
"Uh, uh, Sero's at the ranch." She took a giant bite of her cookie. "Jush Ish."
"Freckles?" He winked, took her hand and walked to the door. "Why is he here? I thought your brother picked you up from school today?"
"Shaprise." She chewed her cookie.
Katsuki froze and peered out the window. He fucking hated surprises. "What kind of surprise?" There was no one in the parking lot.
"I can't say," her voice was so quiet suddenly, he looked back at her.
"Why not?" She just shook her head. Sighing, he knew he was going to have to play along with this shit, if he threw a fit, he'd spoil whatever these two had come up with. "Is it a birthday surprise?"
"Of course," she smiled and tugged at his hand. "I have to take you outside."
He arched his brow. "Nothing too strange?"
"Oh no, uncle Iz say you're gonna love it, but…" she frowned. "I dunno." The skeptical look on her face made his stomach roll.
"Anyone else out there?"
"Nope, everyone else is at the ranch making dinner." Opening the door, she pulled him with her.
Freckles was waiting for them, leaning on the corner of the building, a wide smile on his face. He had on his white hat that was tipped back off his head, his green hair a vibrant contrast underneath. Those damn freckles practically shining as he beamed at him.
Seeing him there, Katsuki's heart jumped out of his chest. Whatever shit surprise they had planned was fine by him.
"Happy Birthday Kacchan," Freckles hugged him and gave him a kiss, he kept it fairly chaste considering their smaller companion but managed to pinch his ass discreetly.
"Thanks, but you already wished me a happy birthday today," his lips tugged into a smile at the memory of their morning.
Freckles winked and laughed. "And I'll be sure to wish you happy birthday again tonight." Katsuki grunted at the promise lingering in his eyes. Clearing his throat, he looked between him and Eri. "So, what's with the surprise? Is it him?" He pointed to Freckles.
"Nooooo!" Eri rolled her eyes.
"You told him?" Freckles gave her a mock horrified expression.
"I made her give up that it was safe to come out," Katsuki looked over towards the road.
"Wanna show him?"
Eri nodded and ran around the side of the building. Freckles took his hand and pulled him along, following behind her.
Holding his breath as they went around the corner, Katsuki was surprised to see his flatbed tow truck with a tarp covered vehicle secured on top. "What's that?"
"Hang on." Eri climbed up on one side and began unhooking the rings. Freckles raced along the other side doing the same. The wind blew and played with the edge of the tarp and the rusted fender of a car appeared.
"Ready Uncle Iz?" Eri yelled out.
"Ready!" Walking backwards, they pulled the tarp off revealing the car that was underneath.
Eri threw her hands out wide. "TA DAH!" She held her pose while he gaped at the rusted, busted up Camaro. Seeing his face, she dropped her arms and frowned. "Uncle Kazki?" She spun around and huffed at Freckles. "I told you! Uncle Iz, it's so old!"
Seeing the junk heap of a car on top of the tow truck hit him so hard that Katsuki was struggling to breathe. It looked exactly like the kind of car his dad would drag in, just to have his mom laugh her head off. "It's perfect." He sucked in a deep breath and in three strides wrapped up Freckles again and kissed him, this time for real. He laughed as he let him maul him.
"Does that mean you like it?" Eri's voice hitched in surprise. Letting Freckles go, he jumped up to the flat bed and lifted her up high.
"I love it!" He laughed and set her back down. Walking around the edge of the truck, he prowled around the car.
"It's all broken and old though."
"That's even better Eri," Katsuki reached in and pounded on the cracked seat. "That way we can make it our very own."
"We?"
"You need to learn how to fix up a car as much as anything else."
Freckles jumped up on the other side and leaned into the open window. "I need to learn too."
Clicking his tongue, Katsuki grunted. "I'm beginning to think that's impossible. The most you've done is watch me fix the drones so far."
"Oh, that reminds me, Uncle Kazki!" Eri hit him on the leg.
"Yeah?"
"Shin said that I could fly one of the drones next time if you say yes."
"Hmmm," Katsuki gave her a baleful look.
"I can't?"
"You can, but I'll teach you first, then you can help Shin." Squealing Eri danced in place.
"Actually Eri," Freckles grinned. "Did you know those drones used to look like this car when Kacchan first bought them?"
Giving the car a quick look, her brow quirked upward. "Nah, ah."
"Pinky promise."
"Really? They're so cool though." Katsuki just snorted and jumped off the tow truck. Eri leapt down behind him.
"Should you and I go back to the ranch and let Uncle Kacchan play with his new toy?" Freckles made his way down the flatbed to step off the back.
"Ahhh, I thought we were getting ice cream." She gave them big eyes and smiled hopefully.
"I don't think-"
"My birthday," Katsuki slapped Freckles on the back. "We get ice cream."
"Yah!" Eri clapped.
"What about dinner?"
"Who's cooking?" Katsuki snorted.
"I think Ochako, Sero and Shinsou." Freckles ticked down a finger for each person.
Katsuki grinned as they headed to his new truck. "Takes all three of them to replace me?" He unlocked the door and Eri scrambled in to sit between them.
"It's true," Freckles got in on the passenger side. "We hate when you can't cook."
"Well, someone's truck broke down and needed attention. For the life of me, I can't manage to teach the owner one thing about fixing fu…" he glanced at Eri, "cars."
Eri eyed him suspiciously.
"It's a new type of car, Eri," he smiled sincerely, "they're called fu cars."
"Uh huh, you have to put money in the jar at home."
"But that's our ice cream money."
"Oh," she bit her lip. "Your punishment is buying the ice cream then."
"Good choice."
Turning out onto the main highway, Katsuki rolled down the window to let in the cool breeze. The wind felt good. Glancing over at Eri, she was laughing as her hair blew riotously around her face. Freckles was trying to help her pull it back into a ponytail, a wide grin making his cheeks puff up and those gorgeous freckles shine. Freckles looked up and caught his gaze.
"Happy birthday Kacchan," he mouthed quietly, "I love you." His big green eyes were glowing with happiness.
Katsuki felt pure joy radiating through him as the moment froze in his mind like a photograph. It was times like these that always made him think about the first day he'd met Freckles.
Second chances…
Katsuki was almost sure that everyone deserved one.
TOL - Well you know my emotional state. I even found a fancy line break for them ... This has been an amazing journey. I thought of this story four years ago and let it simmer, and I am so glad I didn't rush it! What a roller coaster. I adore each character in their own way and had fun pushing boundaries I haven't before.
Thank you to my wonderful Beta! SliceOfLuck. She was amazing with her reviews and cover art.
It is always hard to come to the end of any story! And the only way to not be depressed is to write another! I am currently working on two more. One is another MHA AU Fantasy (Bakugou and crew are half-dragons ) and for the first time I am writing an original werewolf romance. Maybe a Wattpad Original someday!
I really appreciate all the reader support and comments, you are so fantastic! It is fun to walk through the story through your eyes.
Bye... for now