Archive of Our Own ^beta

Chapter Text

1-The Rescue

“Good night, Jess" you call out waving goodbye to the last tech on her way out. Heading into the back of the clinic you stop to grab yourself a cup of coffee, knowing you'll need the caffeine as you ready yourself for a long night. You set yourself down on a pile of old dog beds beside Goose. You had performed the emergency surgery just a few hours ago on the lab and while everything went well, he was still too weak to leave on his own.

He had gotten in a fight at the dog park that afternoon and the poor thing had clearly lost. The poor owner was distraught when she brought him in and you had promised her to treat him like your own dog to put her more at ease. You had to stitch several lacerations including repairing a destroyed ear. But, the most worrying injury was the bite to his neck. It had punctured through several areas in his esophagus damaging his eating and breathing abilities. His recovery wasn't really likely unless he woke up some point in the night. So, you planned to stay up with him to better his chances.

Smiling at the young pup you settled into the nest you had created for yourself out of dog beds and pulled up your book to read while your ears listened to every sound the instruments made. It was just a few minutes into this when you heard the sound of paws along the floor followed by a large dog pushing the door open. “Hey Blu,” you greeted your dog. “Sorry bud, looks like I'll be staying down here tonight. This guy here isn't feeling well and needs my attention. Why don't you head on up to bed.” The large mixed breed responded as you knew he would, by curling up beside you. Smiling at his loyalty you moved over to create more room on the bed for him.

You had met Blu just a few years after you had graduated from vet school and around the time you had opened your own practice. As an animal rescuer right down to your core you often volunteer your time and medical knowledge with several rescue organizations. Blu had been part of a huge group of dogs just brought in after a dog fighting ring had been busted. Many had already been euthanized due to either severe injury or aggression that would not be fixed. You hadn't been having a good day as a result. The state some of the poor creatures were in just had you in tears, despite your being used to this sort of thing. After the tenth euthanasia you had to step out and give yourself a minute. You had found a small corner out of the way to just cry it out.

You had been so distraught that at first you hadn't noticed the little creature that had approached you. Soundlessly he had crawled into your lap and started licking your arm. You had snatched up the little puppy, cuddled him to your chest and crying into his fur. You calmed down after a little while of holding his fluffy little body to you. Looking him over you saw that he was young, just barely old enough to survive without his mom and extremely malnourished. This little puppy, who most likely was to be used as bait had clearly been battered around and abused multiple times. And yet when he heard you crying came to comfort you. You were so moved by this. It hadn't taken you very long to realize, you weren't going home without him. His recovery had been a long road. He was so malnourished that when offered food he didn't even seem to recognize it. And he'd been skittish. Despite his approaching you in the beginning, he hadn't immediately trusted you. It had taken time for him to understand that when a human around him moved, it wasn't to strike him. But, he was young. So, healed pretty quickly physically and emotionally. Now at 3 years old he was healthy, well behaved and fit right in with you and with your clinic.

Your clinic was small, but you loved it. You had the waiting room made up warm and welcoming to put everyone at ease as you knew vet visits were often terrifying for the pets and owners. Blu now wandered freely throughout the waiting area and your office. Greeting clients and occasionally comforting a scared fur baby. You were the only veterinarian on staff and you employed 3 full time technicians to assist you. You were well know and liked as the neighborhood veterinarian. The apartment upstairs was an excellent find as well. San Francisco wasn't the worst city in the world as far as crime. But, with your schedule you often ended work after dark and while Blu was great for protection, you enjoyed the safety of not walking home at night. Especially as there had been a rise in villain activity throughout all the western states recently. So much so that many foreign Heroes had been coming to temporarily provide assistance to our local overwhelmed Heroes.

You quickly came back to the present when you heard Goose begin to stir. Glancing over you discovered him sleepily blinking at you. Smiling you greeted him. “Hey buddy, looks like your going to be fine.” Quickly you began unplugging and removing unnecessary equipment and readying him to spend the rest of the night alone. “Come on Blu, he’ll be ok now,” you called him getting ready to head upstairs. But Blu had other ideas. After getting up from the nest of beds he trotted up to the front door and turned back to look at you. “Really, you have to pee now?” you ask him exhausted. In response he gave you a little whine. “Alright. Alright,” you respond heading for the door. Not bothering with a leash because you were too tired and you knew he would behave himself.

However, the moment the door was open he took off down the street. Panic hit you hard, immediately waking you as you dash out after your dog. Memories are suddenly popping into your head of runaway dogs you've seen after the fact. Dogs hit by cars or found days later injured and hungry. You call to him to come back. But, he ignores you and continues to run. Aware of the fact that he could run much faster then you, your expectation of bringing him back unharmed began to dwindle. However, as you ran it became obvious he didn't seem to want to loose you. Every once in awhile he would stop to turn and bark at you as you ran to catch up. Only to start running before you could grab him.

At this point your so angry at Blu. Your tired from staying up half the night with Goose and know you have a full schedule tomorrow. And your dog now seems to be playing keep away with you. Frustrated you shout out to Blu again to stop playing and come back. Only to be ignored once again. Suddenly you begin to hear a faint sound, one you knew very well. Your anger immediately diminished when you realized this was probably what had gotten your dog in such a state. The unmistakable sound of a dog's panicked and pain filled cry filled the air. You ran with new energy after your dog. Scenarios of what you might find already entering your mind.

You saw Blu suddenly dart into an alleyway. Quickly catching up you ran to the mouth of the alley and took in the scene. Blu was standing near you hackles raised and growling straight ahead. Confused as to why he would be growling at the injured animal he ran all this way for, you glance further into the alley. There you see two older teenage boys who were clearly drunk laughing while pouring beer over a battered and abused little dog. Your heart went out to the small, confused, terrified and obviously in pain creature. But, you realize this isn't a safe situation to barge yourself into. As much as you care for animals in need, you never put yourself in harms way by just charging in places like this. Pulling out your phone you get ready to dial 911 from a safe distance.

Thankfully, drunk as they were, that hadn't noticed you or Blu yet. Begging him to listen now that he’s led you here, you quietly call Blu back. He's a good boy and he does respond, momentarily stopping his growling to look back at you confused. “That's it boy. Come here. It'll be ok,” you told. He huffed before turning from you and charging at the boys. Cringing from panic, you hide yourself against the wall, refusing to leave Blu and desperately trying to figure a way out of this. They finally notice him and start screaming out in surprise and fear suddenly being face to face with a giant angry dog. Relief runs through you. Blu will scare them off you realize. They'll come running out any minute now and you can help that poor little dog. Smiling, expecting to see any minute now those bullies to come running out with their tail between their legs.

Suddenly you hear the shattering of glass, followed immediately by a pained scream from Blu and chuckles from the boys. Walking slightly out of your hiding spot you turn to see the teens standing over a bloody glass shard covered Blu crying in pain. You see one boy lift his leg to kick at him and you act without considering the consequences. Sobbing you dart out of hiding and raced toward the crying Blu. Your stopped by large strong hands lifting you off your feet. “No,” you shout struggling and shouting Blu's name only getting a pained whine in response. You scream for help at the top of your lungs before suddenly a green mist surrounds your body and suddenly you can't move or speak. The boy holding you turns to face his companion.

“Looks like we got another plaything,” he shouts with a chuckle. His friend responds with a laugh as you are thrown to the ground between them. You hit the ground hard, everything suddenly going fuzzy as your head connects. Immediately you feel foreign hands all over you, followed by your jacket being ripped from your body. Still unable to move or scream due to the first boy's quirk, you try to shut it out knowing you can do nothing to stop them. You feel your shirt roughly being shoved up your body when suddenly the hands were just gone. You hear wrestling and arguing behind you followed by the release of your paralysis. You turn your head in the direction you had heard them but, the only ones in the alley are you and the two dogs.

You slowly sit up careful of your injured head and crawl your way to Blu who was unconscious by this point and you begin to examine his condition. The majority of his injuries were on his face and his neck. You began to cry seeing a shard had embedded itself in his right eye. Sobbing you carefully cradle your best friend’s injured head in your lap. Glancing back you see the little dog Blu had come for cowering under some trash, whimpering. You talk to it trying to do what little you can to comfort. Just as your trying to come up with a plan as to how you are going to get both dogs and yourself back home and everyone's injuries treated, a very large man entered the alley.

Terrified and expecting the worst you scream out begging for help curling yourself around Blu's injured head. Slowly you begin to recognize the sound of a soft soothing voice. Confused as to why the teens are acting this way you allow yourself to glance up slightly. First thing you notice is that the man hadn't gotten any closer to you then he originally was. Then you begin to notice his clothing. It looked like a green Hero costume. When that thought registered you began to relax, hoping your right. Slowly you look up to a face you immediately recognize. Deku, the current number 1 Hero and the second All Might some said. He had stopped his progression toward you at seeing your initial reaction, clearly not wanting to startle you further. “Your safe now ma'am. I’m the pro-hero, Deku. Those two thugs have been dealt with. Are you injured?” he asked. “I'd like to see you to medical help, if you'll let me.”

“I know who you are Deku and thank you,” you respond relived to be safe. He relaxes after that and approaches you. Smiling at you now he asks if he can help you get to the ER to be checked out. “Yeah,” you tell him. “It would probably be best to get my head checked out. I hit it pretty hard. But, I can't just leave these two here.”

“My priority is getting you taken care of,” he told her concerned. But, when that’s done I'll come back here to make sure they're taken care of, I promise. Will that work?”

“No,” you say again clutching at your head as your loud shout causes more pain. “I won't leave Blu like this.” You can see him open his mouth to protest but you cut him off. “Andy,” you suddenly shout. “Andy, I'll call Andy.” You quickly pull out your phone to call your friend from school.

Andy immediately agrees to come care for the two dogs once you quickly brief him on the situation. “He'll be here really soon. He just lives a few blocks away. I'm going to stay here until he arrives,” you tell Deku while reaching over to stroke Blu's fur.

“I already figured,” he responded. “Are they your dogs?” he asked. You then explained to him how you had gotten into the situation you were in now. “Ok,” he said at the end of you explanation. “And this friend of yours, Andy, he's a vet as well?”

“Yeah, he'll be able to care for these guys.” Looking up at Deku's smiling face it occurred to you that you were needlessly holding him up. There were a lot of things that probably need the Hero’s attention more then babysitting you. And you were keeping him longer then necessary with your stubbornness. Even knowing this you still couldn't just leave Blu here like this. Glancing back up at Deku, you decided to give him an out. “I really appreciate you helping me out with those guys. But, you don't have to stick around anymore. I'm sure there are bigger things then me that need your help. The police are here now. I'll be ok.”

“Oh,” he said startled before rubbing the back of his neck nervously. “Well, if that's what you would prefer, that should be ok,” he replied glancing behind at the newly arrived police cars. “I'll just go grab an officer to look after you and be on my way.” Wanting to thank him one last time, you smiled at him while leaning forward, reaching out to touch his arm planning on doing just that. But, the moment your hand touched his bare bicep a shock rippled through your entire body. His head snapped back to you to shockingly stare right back into your equally startled eyes, both knowing exactly what had just happened.

Soulmates were a rare thing. Maybe 1 in 1000 chance of one having this perfect mate. Even less chance of even finding them. There was no way to tell if you were part of a Soulmate group until it happened. Many believed that it only happened in those with the purest of kind hearts. It had never even entered your mind that you were one of the few. But, you were. As much as you couldn't believe, in this moment you knew. That you were the other half of this man's soul. This amazing man, the number 1 Hero, Deku.

Chapter Text

2- Insecurities

“(Y/N)!” you hear shouted suddenly. Forcing your eyes away from Deku's shocked ones, you see a frantic Andy racing towards you. “Are you ok? What happened?” he asked huffing like he'd run the whole way. “Oh my god, Blu!” He bends down to look the poor dog over.

“Yeah, I'll tell you the whole story later. For now I need to get myself checked out. But, I needed someone to take care of these guys.” You told him.

“Yeah,” he tells you. “I've got this handled. Go take care of yourself.” Nodding at him you stand up, readying for the walk over when your vision began to fade out and you see the ground getting closer. Only for Deku to grab your arm and steady you.

Seemingly recovered from his shock he addresses your friend. “I'm going to make sure she gets there safely.” You don't bother arguing that he was just about to pass that job off to a police officer and allow him to help you walk. You don't speak on the way there to each other. Occasionally glancing at each other. A few times you find yourself opening your mouth to say something, only to stop yourself before following through. Several times you saw him about to say something only to close back up as well.

You arrived at the hospital frustrated and irritated at yourself. The universe had decided you two were perfect for each other. You couldn't help thinking they were so very wrong. There was no way you could deserve him. While you had never met him, you knew of him and you admired him. In news reports and interviews it was obvious just how selfless he was. Often putting himself in harms way to save even one person's life. This and the humility and his honestly kind nature had made him skyrocketing off the popularity charts even before actually graduating from the prestigious UA high school. Not to mention that flashy quirk of his that literally made him glow or his effortlessly gorgeous looks. He was as close to perfect as perfect got.

It would be easier to just end it now. You don't deserve him and the sooner you let him go, the less heartbreak on your part. Just never even start anything, you decide. It's what's best for both of you. No heartbreak for you and no wasted time for him. You make up your mind about the time you two arrive at the hospital's ER. He immediately walks you to a seat and tells you to wait for him. You do as he instructs as he leaves you to talk to the girl at the desk. Do it when he comes back, you tell yourself. No need for him to waste anymore time with you waiting in this lobby. He's done his duty and its time to say good bye. You brace yourself as you see him heading back to you before you notice the nurse behind him. “Miss,” she addresses you. “If you'll come with me we'll get that head of yours checked out right away.”

Noticing your confusion Deku smiled at you. “I pulled a few strings. I was concerned and didn't want that injury to go unchecked much longer,” he tells you. He did what for you? Oh, you shoved deep down whatever feelings that brought up immediately and opened your mouth to end this immediately. Only to be interrupted by the nurse wrapping an arm around you and leading you to the back. You glanced back at Deku only to see his back already halfway outside the building. You shouldn't feel disappointed, you tell yourself. Clearly, he agreed with you and was just finishing up his Hero duty. You knew you weren't good enough and clearly so did he. You should be relieved and grateful for the kindness he showed you by not making it a big thing. This was a kindness to you. And yet, you couldn't help one tear falling down your face from disappointment and embarrassment.

You pull yourself together when you are greeted by the Dr. He asks you about how the injury occurred and has you rate your pain. After he prods around at your temple's for a few minutes he then shines a light in your eye asking you to turn this and that as he watches your pupils. Finally, he pulls out his computer and talks to you as he inputs his notes. “So, It looks like you did suffer a mild concussion. I highly recommend you stay awake for the next 12 hours,” he tells you. You sigh in disappointment, despite knowing the dangers behind sleeping with a concussion. You were just so tired. “I’m prescribing you some pain medication. Your going to have quite a headache for the next week.” You nodded your understanding just wanting to get this night over with. He hands you your discharge papers, shakes your hand and reminds you again to not fall asleep. The nurse then comes in to show you out.

You walk out of the room already dreading the walk back. Your tired, in pain, concerned for Blu and despite your attempts not to be, disappointed at Deku's abrupt departure. Feelings that are immediately turned to surprise as you scan the lobby. You stop stunned for a moment and begin reaching for the door to go back in, because now your injury is causing you to have hallucinations. There sitting in the chair you once occupied is Deku, sitting back casually fiddling with his phone. Shocked, you stare for just a moment more, watching your hallucination. Just in time to see a young kid recognize him and ask for an autograph. As he smiles and greets the little boy signing his little book while chatting playfully with him, you realize your not hallucinating. He's really here. He came back. That doesn't mean he's here for you, you remind yourself. He was working. Maybe he had another injured victim that needed medical help. But, your made even more confused by the fact that he was no longer in his uniform. He was dressed casually in jeans and a tight green t-shirt.

Just then he looked up from the little boy to notice you. Smiling at you, like he'd been waiting for you that whole time, he said a goodbye to the little boy ruffling his hair before heading over to you. “So, you gonna live?” he asked jokingly.

You stared at him in confusion for a moment before blabbering out, “You came back?”

His smile fell slightly as he responded. “I never left,” he said confused.

“I saw you leave,” you told him hating how accusing you sounded. “You were walking outside when I was being brought back.”

Understanding flashed in his eyes and the smile returned. “No, I was just stepping out to make a phone call. I was still supposed to be on patrol. So, I called a friend of mine to ask him to take over.”

“Why?” you ask him confused.

“Well, I wanted to make sure you were ok,” he told you. “He also brought me some clothes to change out of my Hero uniform. He brought us breakfast and left his car for me to drive you home in too,” he tells you holding up a Starbucks bag. “I'm sorry I made you believe I'd just left. I wouldn't have just… I mean, not after… I didn't even have your number.”

Oh boy, you shouldn't continue this any further, you tell yourself. You look up in his eyes to tell him just that and stop. He looks so nervous, you realize. Looking away from you, cheeks flushing slightly with his hand rubbing his neck. He was muttering to himself quietly too as he reached up to tug at his hair. You can't do it you realize. At least not when he looks like that. “That was really nice of him,” you say instead briefly getting distracted by the way the movement made his arm flex, stretching his shirt attractively.

“Yeah, he's a nice guy,” he told you. “Despite appearances,” he added quietly. You were just about to ask him what he meant by that when he changed the subject. “Coffee?” he asked holding out two cups. “This one has hazelnut and this one has chocolate.” Deciding that coffee and a ride home was worth holding off the difficult conversation you reached for the chocolate and one of the breakfast sandwiches he handed you.

Grabbing a duffel bag that hadn't been there when you arrived and sipping on his own coffee, he led you out towards the parking garage. He seemed to have gotten over whatever had prevented him from talking to you earlier. Now, he was pleasantly chatting with you freely, telling you a few funny stories from his UA days and asking questions about you. Despite your decision to not get any further attached you found yourself answering him back, even asking questions yourself. Just let yourself have this you think. You can handle saying goodbye after this, you tell yourself.

When he leads you to his friend's car, you stop and look back at him questioningly, one eyebrow raised in amusement. When he sees your expression he laughs before saying, “Yeah, he's not exactly a subtle type.” That's an understatement, you thought looking over the car again. You didn't know much about cars. But, it was sleek, sporty and obviously expensive and bright cherry red. What really put it over the top was the yellow explosive sparks painted all over the car. Checking around the back you caught sight of the custom license plate, GROUND-0. Of course you think to yourself. Of course this explosive, ostentatious car would belong to Ground Zero, number 2 hero.
Smiling at his amused expression you tell him, “I don't know Deku. It feels like it's missing something.” You pretend to think for a moment before snapping like you just figured something out. He should have a few sparklers along the side.”

He responded to you laughing as he did so. “Don't ever say that to him. You joke. But, he would probably do it. I told him he shouldn't bring it with us. We're only here temporarily. But, he refused to leave it in Japan.” Still laughing, you both climb into the car. He seems to hesitate for a moment before glancing back at you seemingly decided as he pushes the start button. “And it's Izuku by the way,” he said quietly and you were surprised to see a faint blush on his cheeks. It took you a minute to fully get what he was saying and why he was suddenly so bashful. He had just offered you his given name. You didn't know much about Japanese culture. But, this you knew. As an American, it wasn't strange or even a big deal to call someone by their first name. It meant nothing to you. Except for the knowledge that it meant something to him.

That was when you fully realized what he was doing. He had not only escorted you to the ER, but had also called in some favor for you to be seen sooner, because he'd been worried. Called in to work and had told his friend about you. He was asking you about yourself like he actually wanted to know and had even mentioned wanting your number. He wants to see you after this. He was interested. More then that you realize surprised. He likes you. You feel yourself grin a little, blushing a bit in spite of yourself. Because you also realize that you like him too and you want this. But, he only wants you because he doesn't know… it. Once he does, he'll leave like everyone else. Images of your parents backs as you beg them to come back, that you were sorry, come flooding back. You quickly shove them down deep into your mind, not wanting to start crying now. Looking back at his nervous but kind face, you couldn't help in that moment to just not care. You want this. You want him. You knew eventually he'd know and your heart would break. But, maybe you could enjoy this until then? He wont immediately figure it out. But, was that small amount of time with him worth the inevitable heartbreak? One glance at his nervous and bashful expression and you had your answer. “Izuku it is then,” you responded smiling.

Smiling back, he reached into his pocket to pull out his phone. Quickly unlocking it, he handed it to you. “I almost forgot,” he told you. Glancing down at the screen, you realize he has his contacts up ready for you to input your information. Not hesitating a moment this time, you quickly type in your number and hand it back to him.

Chapter Text

3- Recovery

You wave goodbye to Izuku as he drives off after dropping you off at your clinic. You smile watching his car before you turn around and rush inside concerned for Blu. When you find him, it looks like Andy has just finished surgery and Blu is still unconscious. You glance over his body, seeing his face and neck covered in stitches. You feel tears starting to flow as you reach his eyes. “I had to remove it,” he tells you. You nod your head at him already having expected that. “Some of the glass was in pretty deep. It'll take him awhile to heal. This one here,” he says pointing to a cut on his neck, “almost hit his carotid artery. If that had happened…” he gave her a pointed look.

“He would have bled out before you even got there,” you finish.

Nodding at you he continues, “I know you already know all this. But, its worth going over. Our concern now is infection. The glass was dirty, alley extremely unsanitary and wounds deep. I pumped him with IV antibiotics and prescribed oral antibiotics and pain medication. He's also going to need time to adjust to loosing half his eye sight. There'll be scars to.”
“Scars are the least of my worries right now,” you tell him stroking Blu's back. “How is the little bit?”

“I called in Jess to help me with Blu's surgery. I gave the little dog a once over while she prepped Blu. She's terrified, for good reason after what she went through. She has several cuts along her body that don't require stitches. Her neck had a rope tied to it, cutting into her skin. I removed it and gave her antibiotics as the wound on her neck was becoming infected. I suspect her leg is broken as well. I want to do an x-ray to find out what exactly I'm dealing with. I also have a blood test going because I suspect she's pregnant.”

“Poor little mama,” you say as you reach over to prepare the x-ray.

Andy stops you immediately. “No, no, I got this. You go rest. I'll take over the Clinic today.”

You shake your head at him. “I wish I could take you up on that. But, I'm concussed. I can't sleep. I might as well do some work.”

“Alright,” he responds. “But, I'm still taking over today. And no surgery,” he orders.

“Good idea,” you respond. “And thank you.” He nods in acknowledgment before heading up to the front to open. You spend your day helping in the back. Just trying to keep yourself busy to stay awake. It turned out Andy was right. The little dog now affectionately name Little Bit was pregnant. How far along was hard to figure out with her malnutrition. Her rear left leg was also broken in several places. From the type of break it looked like it had been crushed in some way, likely being stepped on. She still was terrified of anyone who walked by. But, had seemed to greatly appreciate the food offered.

You spent the majority of your time with Blu who had woken up in pain, confused and scared. He'd cuddled up to you immediately when you sat down beside him. You sat in his run with him offering comfort and adjusting his medication when needed. It was during one of these cuddle sessions that you heard your phone give a cheerful little chirp, alerting you to a new text message. Glancing at your phone you realize its from an unknown number. Smiling, you quickly open to see it was indeed from Izuku. You immediately add him to your contacts before responding.

Izuku: Hi, its Izuku. How's your head?

You: The pain isn't so bad. The Dr. gave me some meds for that. I just really wish I could sleep. I was up all last night and I can't sleep yet because of the concussion.
Izuku: That sucks. When is it safe for you to sleep again?

You: Another couple hours. It's not so bad. I’ve been keeping busy with patients. Andy took over for the day, so I’m doing just enough to stay awake. And Blu needs me.

Izuku: Will he be alright?

You: He lost his eye so it'll take awhile for him to adjust to that. But, he'll be ok. I think half the pouting he's doing is just due to the cone.

Izuku: Hey, I get the guy. Someone stuck a satellite dish on my head, I wouldn't be too happy either. Although, I think I would survive if I had such a cute gal kissing me better. ;)

You blush and grin reading the flirtatious comment. You let out a little giggle when Blu reaches over with his paw and pushes your hand holding the phone away, climbing further into your lap while giving you the biggest pity me look ever.

You: Oh, he loves it. He's going to milk this for months. He's a little jealous you've stolen some of his mom's attention right now. He just tried to shove the phone from my hand.

Izuku: I’m sure we'll work out a way to share you. Ask him if he's willing to share you Saturday.
You: I don't know. He's not too big on sharing. But, I may be able to convince him. Where were you thinking?

Izuku: Is dinner and a movie too cliché?

You: No, it's a classic for a reason. How does 6:00 sound? I do have the clinic open on Saturdays.
Izuku: Sounds perfect. I'll pick you up.

Grinning at your phone, you glance up to see Jess watching you. “And who would you be talking to with that blushing grin?” she asks.

Blushing even more you respond, “I have a date on Saturday.”

“Oh, tell me about him,” she demands.

Smiling at her while you reach over to pat a now sleeping Blu you respond. “His name is Izuku. He actually rescued me from the boys that attacked Blu and I.”

“What?” she interrupted suddenly. “I thought Andy said you were rescued by the Hero Deku. I've been meaning to ask you about that too. Is he as nice as he seems on TV. He's so handsome isn't he. Please tell me you took full advantage and just swooned in his arms,” she exclaimed while acting out fainting against the wall, arm thrown dramatically over her eyes. You roll your eyes laughing as you open your mouth to reply. But, she cut you off again. “Sorry, got a little side tracked there. Tell me about your new guy. Is he a police officer? Is that what you meant. What's he like, what's he look like?”

“Let me talk and you'll find out,” you interrupt laughing at your friends antics. Jess quickly sits down in front of you and mimes zipping her mouth shut with a grin. You pause knowing as soon as you say it Jess will freak out. “Actually, the man I have a date with is Deku.” Just as you expected, Jess screeched before bombarding you with questions. You quickly interrupt her, “I'll tell you everything Jess. You just have to let me.” She nods quickly urging you to continue. “Yes, I was just texting with Deku to make a date. Although, he asked that I call him Izuku. We met for the first time when he saved me from the boys that were harassing Little Bit. At one point, I touched his shoulder to thank him, and apparently he and I are soulmates.” You saw her eyes go wide, questions pouring out of her eyes. But, she held back and let you continue. “He took me to the hospital and then he even called into work to be there with me. Then he drove me home, gave me his number and now we have a date on Saturday. And yes, he's probably even nicer then how he seems on TV. It's so rare, but he's genuinely a nice guy. And obviously, yes he gorgeous and unfortunately I did almost faint a couple times and he caught me. So, in a way I did swoon in his arms.” You finish with a bit of a blush.

“I'm sure he didn't mind,” Jess told you grinning. “You actually have a soul bond. That's amazing. Even more so that its with the Hero Deku. I mean I kind of see it. They say only those with the purest kindest hearts have soulmates. And you are one of the kindest and most selfless people I know.”

“Thank you for saying that,” you tell her. “I am happy about it. I’ve barely gotten to know him. But, he's amazing. I'm going to enjoy this to the fullest as long as I can.”

Jess looked at you in confusion. “What do you mean? You haven't even been on a date yet and your praising how amazing he is. Why do you assume its going to end? Your soulmates even. Look, its not good to go into a relationship already assuming it'll fail, because then it will. Did he say something? What makes you feel that way?”

You don't blame her for being surprised. Neither she nor Andy knew about it. Over the years you had gotten better about changing the subject or deflecting away. And thankfully neither of them had asked. You were grateful for that luck as you finally had friends that lasted longer then a couple days. Downside to that, was you knew one day they would know and it would be even harder to loose them. Part of you hoped they would be different. Maybe it wouldn't matter to them. But, you knew it would. And it would definitely matter to Izuku. But, you couldn't tell any of this to Jess. “Come on, he's a Hero. I'm sure he'll get bored of me soon enough. I'm nothing special.”

“Okay,” she interrupted. “No one is allowed to talk about my best friend that way, including you. Give him a chance. He seems like a good guy and you do deserve that.”

You smile at her in thanks before you're interrupted by Andy approaching you. “Hey, (Y/N). Goose's mom is here to pick him up and she wanted to talk to you. I tried to explained the situation. But she wants to see you even more now.”

You nod your head before replying, “Its alright Andy. Blu is fast asleep and I don't mind.” Getting up quietly as to avoid waking Blu, you make your way to the exam room Andy pointed out. Smiling at Goose and his mom, you greet them as you walk in.

“Oh Dr. (L/N), I just wanted to thank you for the kindness you showed me and Goose. But, I heard about the accident you and Blu were in. I'm so sorry that happened to you and very glad your alright. I feel for you and Blu. If there's anything you ever need, please know you can come to me.”

“I'm grateful for you consideration,” you tell her. “I escaped relatively unscathed. It's Blu I worry about right now. But, he’ll recover. He's a tough guy. Just like Goose here. Look, he's already grinning like nothing happened.” You walk Goose and his mother out friendly conversing with her on her way out. She had been the last client. So, after stopping in to check Jess and Andy had it all covered you approached Blu, noticing he'd woken again. “Alright buddy. Let's get you home.” At your request Andy lifts your large dog up to take him up to your apartment. He settles him down on the bed next to yours before letting himself out. Relief fills you as you finally fall into bed, asleep before your head hits the pillow.

Chapter Text

4- Consider the Past

“Oh, this is hopeless!” you shout tossing the blazer on top of the building pile of clothing.

“It's not hopeless. What was wrong with that last dress?” asked Jess through video call on your phone.
“It was a dress!” you respond.

The week went by in a rush and now you were 30 minutes away from expecting Izuku and you stood in your robe, hair a mess glaring at your closet.

“Your being ridiculous. You looked cute in every outfit so far. Wear that blue sundress. And again, no its not too fancy,” Jess tells you. “Look, I gotta go. Trust me and wear the dress. Your fine."

Sighing after she hung up you glance back at Blu, laying on your bed, a shirt hanging from his face. “Stop looking at me like I'm nuts. This is a disaster and I need help. What do you think I should wear?” Blu shakes the clothing from his body before picking up something from the pile. “Oh yes,” you say sarcastically. “My still damp bath towel. Good choice bud. That is the perfect thing to wear on my date.” Sighing in frustration you pick up your blue sundress and finally begin to get ready. 25 minutes later you come rushing out of the bathroom in the dress, light makeup applied and hair flowing down your back, shiny and smooth. Pausing at your closet to grab your white ballet flats you rush downstairs to wait for Izuku.

While you wait, you walk around and check that the few hospitalized patients were doing well. You stop at Little Bit’s cage and give her a quick pat. After her pain was managed, her injuries stabilized and she had time to settle in, she seemed to realize she was safe and allowed you and your staff to handle her.

Finally, you hear a knock and race to the door. You open up to a smiling, but also obviously nervous Izuku.
Your nerves immediately lessened at the sight of him. He looks more nervous then you. You slowly break out into a grin. “Hi,” you say.

“Hi,” he says back shoulders loosening. “You look really nice.”

You thank him as you turn to lock the door. “So, where are we headed?” you ask.

“Well, you know the area much better then me. Where do you recommend?”

You consider for a moment. There were a lot of great places within walking distance. But, you didn't know what he liked. Plus, he was from a different country. Would he prefer getting something Japanese and familiar or was he hoping for something new? But, the only thing you knew about Japanese food was sushi. Did you like this guy enough to do sushi? You were never able to get over the not cooked thing. No, you really really like him. But, not enough to force down sushi. “How does Pizza sound?” you finally ask. Pizza's safe, you think. Everyone likes pizza.

“Sounds great,” he responded.

“Great,” you tell him. “There's a great place just a couple blocks from the theater.

Pizza turned out to be a great idea. You were easily able to agree on toppings and soon were sitting outside on their patio enjoying the nice weather.
“So, have you always wanted to be a vet?” he asks you.
“I'd always wanted to help animals. Becoming a vet seemed the best way to do it. I didn't have the best childhood. I was in the foster system since I was five and no one really wanted to keep me around very long. I quickly developed a love for dogs, deeply appreciating their ability to love unconditionally. They don't judge or ridicule you for things out of your control.”

You see his confused face at that comment. Not wanting to have to explain you quickly continued. “Then I began seeing these poor sweet creatures mistreated, beaten or neglected. There was a moment in my life where I decided helping mistreated animals was how I wanted to spend my life. I spent some time with a couple that just wanted me for the government check. The husband was running an illegal dog fighting business. He got this new pittie puppy that he let me take care of. I named him Billi and he was so sweet and so trusting. I was young and trusting then too. I thought the man was the kindest I’d ever met because he gave me a dog. I had high hopes then that I was going to be adopted. When Billi was 8 months old, my foster father told me it was time for him to perform. I hadn't understood what that meant and I was excited, telling Billi it was his big day. When the fight started I was horrified. I loved Billi and to see him cower away while getting mauled by this dog was one of the scariest moments of my life. I waited for the adults to help him. But, all that happened were cheers of encouragement. And my foster father, the man I’d hoped at the time would adopt me was yelling at Billi telling him to get up and fight. That was when I lost it. I screamed so hard, begging someone to help him. My foster father dragged me out of the building saying I was embarrassing him and to get over it. I screamed and kicked at the door trying to get to Billi. But, no one ever came to help. When it was all over, everyone left quickly laughing and drinking like they hadn't just watched innocent creatures being forced to kill each other. I ran through the open door only to see him dragging a seriously injured and crying Billi behind him. I think a dog crying in pain is one of the most heartbreaking things ive ever heard. He'd lost the fight and my foster father was furious. I saw him kick him down some stairs into a dog run. Billi got up after landing limping and bleeding and walked straight to him looking for help and comfort. After everything he did, he still looked to him for help. But, he just left him there to suffer alone. I hid as he left and raced to Billi. He'd locked the gate so all I could do was sit beside the bars just talking to him. I spent the night there with Billi offering what comfort I could. I don't think I stopped crying the whole night. My foster father found me there in the morning. He kicked my stomach to wake me and said I had embarrassed him by crying at the fight and that the dog I raised was useless. He smacked me a couple times. I was in shock as before this, he'd never struck me. But, that pain was nothing compared to making me watch him kill Billi. He had a poison quirk that he expelled out through his breath. It was slow and painful and I'll never forget watching my sweet dog die that way.”

You look up after that to see a horrified look upon Izuku's face. “Sorry,” you say, screaming in your head. First date and you've already scared him off. Too heavy, way too heavy. “That story kind of ran away with me. I wasn't really thinking. I'm sorry. I'm sure your so uncomfortable. I'll understand if you don't want…”

“(Y/N), it's fine. Calm down,” Izuku interrupted. I asked because I want to get to know you, all of you. I'm glad you feel comfortable enough to share something like that with me. I'm not uncomfortable, just sad you had to go through that. Were you with that family for long?”

You breath out a sigh of relief. You were sure you scared him off. He was such a great guy. You don't deserve him. But, you were just too selfish to let him go. “Too long,” you respond. “I had to stay another 2 months before I went back to school and was able to inform a teacher. I had a few bruises from another time he had hit me. They were enough to allow me to leave. But, they were never able to prove he had hit me. He also cleaned the dog fighting area up enough that he was never charged for that. It kills me that he's probably still at it. But, at least he couldn't hurt me anymore. After that, I took my studies very seriously. So, that one day, I could help dogs in situations like that.”

“I'd say that's something we have in common. The desire to help those unable to help themselves,” Izuku tells you. “When I was younger, I wanted to be a hero. But, everyone around me was convinced it was impossible for me.” He stopped noticing your confused face. He had an amazing quirk that was obviously hero material. It didn't make sense that no one believed he could do it. “There were reasons for it,” he told you vaguely before continuing. “There was a lot of bullies in my school. I was bullied. But, I also saw a lot of younger or smaller kids picked on. I always tried to help, which usually just ended with me hurt as well. And it bothered me so much that no matter what I did I couldn't help them. I idolized All Might. How he could save anyone from anything with a fearless smile on his face. I wanted to be just like him. So, I worked hard studying everything I could think of to improve my potential as a hero. I became obsessed with quirks. I had a bookshelf full of notebooks devoted to quirk analysis.”

When you heard that you immediately tensed up. You continued to smile at him and listen as you did want to learn about him. But, you silently began to panic. The more you learned of him the more you liked him and wanted him to stay. But, you knew to keep him, you had to keep your secret from him. How were you supposed to hide it from a guy who was that obsessed with quirks?

Chapter Text

5- Kiss Amiss

Thankfully Izuku never noticed a change in your mood and after the funny movie you saw together, your happy mood was back. The two of you were happily chatting away as he walked you back home. You had learned a lot about him that night and you were just left enchanted by him. But, his humility about himself as he spoke made it easy to be around him. You feared at moments, questioning just how such a man was intended for you. But, the way he seemed just as charmed when you spoke helped to push that fear down.

On your walk you traded funny work stories. You told him about the young puppy you had been loving on once. Only for said puppy to suddenly urinate all over the front of your scrubs. Your description of the utter betrayal you had felt toward the innocent ball of fluff had him bursting with laughter. In return, his story of a prank he and Kamanari had pulled on Bakagou. Only for Bakagou to believe it had been pulled by some perverted purple friend of theirs and had gone after him. This had caused you to laugh so hard you ended up hiding a snort.

This was how you had arrived at your door, laughing uncontrollably. As you both caught back your breath, Izuku spoke. “I had fun tonight,” he tells you.

“Me too,” you reply still smiling.

“You know, I haven't really been able to explore the city very much. How would you feel about showing me around?” he asked.

“I'd love to,” you quickly tell him looking forward to seeing him again.

“Yeah?” he asked with a grin. “Awesome. Um, so the nature of my job makes it difficult to plan things as I could be needed if an emergency arises. But, I'm off from patrol on Wednesday if you'd like to spend the day. I just feel I should warn you that there will be times I may have to break plans to help. But, I'll alert you of that ever happens.”

Normally as the owner you didn't take full days off. When the clinic was open, you were working. But, the idea of spending a full day with Izuku was too tempting to pass up. Andy had been helping you out more and more and you had actually considered offering him a job. He could handle Wednesday on his own.

“That sounds like fun,” you tell him. “I already have an idea of where to go. And I don't want you to feel guilty if you have to skip out to rescue someone. I understand.”

“Excellent,” he tells you before going silent. Now came the moment you had been thinking about all day. You really wanted to kiss him. There were girls you knew that wouldn't wait for their date to make a move. But, you just couldn't work up the courage to make that first move. As you wait, you play with your keys while cursing your shyness in your head.

After a little while of waiting and looking down at your hands you begin to get nervous. Maybe you had misread the evening. Maybe he didn't want to kiss you and he's just watching you make a fool of yourself. Nervously, you raise your eyes to look at him. He was looking slightly away from your face too, absent mindedly pulling at his hair with his right hand and looks to be quietly mumbling to himself.

When you caught each other's eyes you grinned at each other laughing at yourselves. Still smiling at you, Izuku bent down and swiftly pecked you on your cheek before telling you, “I’ll text you tomorrow.” You watched him for awhile as he walked back down the street. Before giving him one last wave as you stepped inside the clinic. Once inside you watch him a little longer through the tinted glass, biting your lip to keep yourself from giggling.

“You two are ridiculously cute. I can feel my teeth rotting away from all the sweetness.” You jump and scream the moment you hear the unknown voice. Spinning around to face the unknown person you attempt to put on a brave face. Only to roll your eyes, while relaxing back onto the wall as the adrenalin leaves you. “Careful (Y/N), you don't want that hero boyfriend of yours to break your door in.”

“What are you doing here, Jess?” you ask irritated as you attempt to catch your breath.

“Trying to figure out why you didn't kiss that gorgeous hunk of a man,” she replies. Your only response is to roll your eyes at her. “I didn't want to wait to hear about your date. Which judging by the love-struck look on both your faces, I’d say it went well. Despite you chickening out on laying one on Mr. Handsome.”

“Jess, it was amazing. He was amazing,” you tell her walking over to join her in your lobby chairs.

“When are you seeing him again?” she asks.

“Wednesday were spending the day together. He wants me to show him around.”

“Where are you going to take him?” She asks.

“I was thinking down to the pier. Lots of things we could get up to there,” you reply.

“Good choice,” she says. “Tell me your going to kiss him then. Watching the two of you just now was almost painful.”

“Shut up,” you tell her laughing. “You know me.”

“Yes, I do,” she replies. “But, seriously. I love seeing you so happy. Your my best friend and the kindest person I know. I'm glad you found someone worthy of you. I honestly didn’t believe he actually existed.”

“Thanks Jess,” you tell her. Honestly I keep worrying I'm not good enough for him. But, he's so good at putting me at ease. He's something else.”

“But, so are you,” she replies with a smile.

Jess ended up spending the night camped out in the living room with you. You spent half the night drinking together and gushing over Izuku. The two of you finally fell asleep late in the morning and woke up near noon with terrible hangovers. You woke to a very insistent Blu in your face, whining and just about crossing his legs. “Alright, Blu. Alright, I'm sorry.” Your clinic was closed on Sundays thankfully. So, there were no clients to worry about. Stopping by the kitchen to quickly grab yourself a cup of coffee, you grab the leash and take Blu on his walk before he exploded.

After Blu had found a spot to do his business you walked down to your favorite coffee shop. Buying yourself and Jess some breakfast, as well as another coffee, as it was definitely a two cup morning, you made your way back home. You had also bought Blu a special treat from their pup- bakery to make up for your neglect that morning. Jess was awake when you arrived back home and was very grateful for the breakfast.

Checking on Little Bit, you found that Jess had already taken care of her needs. “Thanks for helping with Little Bit,” you told her. She responded with a silent thumbs up, her face buried in her coffee. Seeing you by Little Bit's kennel, Blu excitedly came over to you and pawed at your leg. You smile at him. “You want your friend, Blu?” you ask before lifting her out and down by Blu. While she was still working on her trust of humans, she loved Blu and he adored her. You watched them curl up together on Blu's bed. Little Bit had positioned herself between Blu’s curled up leg and belly. As a result all you could see of her was a hint of her pink cast.

“You realize you can't separate those two, right?” you hear Jess comment.

“Yeah,” you tell her. “It doesn't really look like their giving me much of a choice. But, I'm drawing the line at keeping her puppies, Blu,” you say directed at the bed. Blu briefly opens his eye to look at you as he wags his tail. You spare one last look at the adorable pair before turning back to your own breakfast. Hearing your phone suddenly go off, you excitedly grab it to see a text message from Izuku.

Izuku: Is it Wednesday yet?

Feeling a goofy grin on your face you begin to reply.

Chapter Text

6 – True Heroism

“Izuku,” you shout out once you spot him. You see an attractive grin stretch across his face as soon as he sees you as he starts to walk toward you. You'd text him where you had planned to take him for your next date and the two of you had agreed to meet there at the pier.

“Good Morning,” he says as he briefly wraps one arm around you in a hug. “I grabbed you some coffee,” he says as he hands you a to-go cup.

“Thank you,” you replied with a smile hugging him back. “How was patrol yesterday?”

“Exhausting,” he replied. “I don’t know where all these villains are popping up from. But, even with all us extra heroes here to help, we’re getting over run. If we’re going to have any chance of stopping these guys, we need to find whoever’s behind this soon.”

“You mean, you guys think there’s one person behind all this extra villain activity?” you ask surprised.

“Oh, there has to be. On the news all these attacks may look random. But, there’s definitely a pattern there. We just haven’t found it yet,” he replied.

“It sound very stressful,” you say sympathetically placing one of your hands on his shoulder in comfort.

“It is,” he agrees with you. “But, lets not talk about that right now. The only thing that kept me going on week was looking forward to this day with you.”

“Okay,” you respond to his request to change the subject. “I thought we’d go see the aquarium first. I haven’t been since I moved here and have been dying to visit.”

“That sounds great to me,” he replied. “Lead the way.”

That was how you spent the majority of your day, admiring the amazing animals on display while hopefully subtly admiring the gorgeous man beside you. All day, your mind kept racing back to your last date. Clearly, you both had wanted that kiss. Would it happen tonight? You really hoped so. And judging by how you caught him several times glancing down at your lips throughout day, so did he.

It was nearing sun set when you left the aquarium and decided to walk down the beach together. He started talking about his very early training with All Might and how he had had him clean a whole trashed beach as part of his training.

“Looking back on it, it really was a brilliant way to train me at that stage. It did exercise every muscle group. But, it also taught something that a lot more hero’s need to learn. It’s easy to get caught up in the fame, money, fan girls and just all the adoration that comes with being a hero. But, really heroism has nothing to do with that. True heroism is about selflessness, putting on a brave smile for the scared citizens who are probably having the worst moment of their life, even if on the inside your more scared then they are. It’s about using your last bit of strength in your body to save just one more person. He’d called it public service. But, after awhile, I understood what that actually meant.”

This man is amazing. The more he spoke, the more you couldn’t believe he was real. And while you greatly admired his sense of bravery, it also scared you. You were falling for this man fast and it was exciting and exhilarating to recognize where these feelings were heading and all you wanted to do in that moment was pull him down and kiss him senseless. But, he’d talked about giving up his life so casually. It was only their second date and the idea of loosing him that way caused a pain in your heart. He must of read your emotions on your face because he stopped walking to turn around and face you. His hand came up to lightly caress your cheek. “I’m sorry,” he said. “I didn’t say that to scare you away. It’s been awhile since I’ve even been close to that situation. I’d just meant it as a way a hero should think. I’m not looking on dying anytime soon. I think ensuring you come home to the ones you love is even more important.” His face got closer to yours as he spoke. You smiled back at him slightly reassured. You always knew his job was dangerous. But, that selflessness was just one of the things you loved about him.

Neither of you had pulled away. You noticed his gaze slip down to your lips before jumping back up to your eyes questioningly. Grinning in response you placed one hand on his chest to steady yourself as you raised up on your toes to reach your lips up to his. He leaned down and wrapped one arm around your waist to pull you closer.

You could taste his breath on your tongue and just barely felt the graze of his lips on yours before you were jostled so hard you were nearly knocked to the ground. Only Izuku’s sturdy arms kept you upright. “Stay here,” he tells you as he runs off the way you came. It takes you longer then it did Izuku to understand the situation. Izuku had already caught up to the couple that had knocked into him and had arrested the villain before you realized what happened. It was surprising that neither of you had noticed the screaming young woman running toward you until she had literally run into Izuku. It helped your ego slightly to know that the professionally trained hero had been so distracted by almost kissing you, that he hadn’t heard a woman screaming for help that close to him.

You waited patiently where Izuku had left you, enjoying watching him clearly in his element. You felt no fear or concern for him as it turned out to be a simple domestic abuse case. The girls boyfriend attacked her due to some imagined embarrassment she had caused. While, anyone being attacked was horrible and should not be considered just a little thing, it was definitely smaller than Izuku’s usual fights. The small time villain gave in quickly, certainly not expected to be stopped by the number 1 hero. Despite the fact that this could very much be considered below his pay grade and it being his day off, Izuku clearly took this altercation seriously. Ensuring the boyfriend was securely immobilized. Then even taking the time to reassure and assess the victim, while waiting for police. You even notice him glancing your way to ensure your safety. Your heart warmed seeing how kind he was being to the terrified young woman, and how stern he was with the young man.

It wasn’t long before he rejoined you on your walk. “I’m sorry,” he says immediately after he caught up to you. “I didn’t want to just leave you in the middle of a date. But, I couldn’t just ignore…”

“I know,” you tell him. “And I would never ask you to.” He smiled back in relief before taking your hand in his and turning to continue your walk. But, you stopped him with a hand to his chest and turned around to face him. He gave you a confused look before you spoke. “However, I do believe we were in the middle of something,” you tell him with a flirty grin leaning up.

“Yes,” he responds grinning back. “I do believe we were.” He leans down wrapping both his strong arms around your waist, pulling you closer. He then surprised you, by suddenly straightening up pulling you up with him completely off your feet. You give a startled giggle before wrapping your arms around his neck and greeting his lips with yours.

Chapter Text

7- Bickering Brothers

It had been a few weeks since your second date with Izuku and you hadn’t seen much of him since. He was so busy with tracking down villains, that his free time was basically nonexistent. You still continued to text all the time and had met a few times for a quick coffee or lunch break. He had come in a few times to say hi, when he was patrolling in the area and had once even sent flowers to the clinic as an apology when he had picked up on that you were missing him through you texts. Jess had immediately rushed over to gush at you over it, she hadn’t let it go for the whole day. She had insisted on keeping them up front instead of in your office so she could show every client that day how sweet your boyfriend was. You had rolled your eyes and blushed at the attention. But, you couldn’t argue with the fact that Izuku was very sweet.

You couldn’t really complain about the situation. He was out there saving lives. But, you couldn’t help but want to hog him for yourself. He had assured you that his life was not this busy all the time. Just something big was currently happening and it was all hands on deck. He felt they were really getting close. He hadn’t been able to tell you much due to confidentiality. But, he shared with you what he could. Apparently, they knew who was behind it. They just hadn’t been able to find him. Izuku had shared with you that this particular villain was especially powerful and dangerous and had been the reason behind him and Ground Zero coming here. Izuku had told you that he felt this particular villain was his responsibility. You had asked him if that was because he was the number 1 hero. But, he had told you it was more like an inherited responsibility. You had questioned him on that as neither his parents were heroes. But, he hadn’t been able to tell you anymore on the subject.

It was the end of the day and after everyone had gone home, you grabbed Blu to go on your daily walk. Your last client had gone a little later than expected. So, it was already growing dark by the time the two of you made it out of the clinic. You weren’t worried about it. This had happened before, you didn’t go very far and Blu had always been a good deterrent from muggers.
It was halfway through your walk when you noticed a change in Blu’s demeanor. Something had caught his attention, and he quickly turned to look behind you. You started to turn your head to see what had caught his eye when you were suddenly pulled off your feet and into a large sturdy chest. Your first instinct was to scream. But, before you could get it out you felt the person behind you give you a large kiss on the side of your face.
Glancing down, you began to relax as you noticed Blu facing you and the man behind you wagging his tail without a single worry that his mom had been snatch right off the ground. “I hope I didn’t scare you,” came a very familiar voice.

“Of course you scared her stupid Deku,” responded an angry unfamiliar voice. “You don’t think some random giant dude grabbing her right off the street is going to create some fear?”

“I’m not just some random guy, Kachan,” Izuku responded.

“And how was she to know that. Your lucky you didn’t get a knee to the groin. Speaking of which…Yo Extra!” angry stranger shouts. “Your being pulled off the street by some random guy. Not even a scream?”

“He’s got a point,” commented Izuku. “I really didn’t mean to scare you. But, next time at least scream.”

“I was going to,” you tell them. “But, you did announce yourself pretty quick.”

“Alright, well I’m sorry I scared you. I just got a little excited when I saw you. Can we join you for your walk?” asked Izuku.
“Deku, we’re working. We’re supposed to be patrolling. Although, now I see why you always insist we take this area,” replied the angry guy.

“This is work,” Izuku insisted finally setting you down. “We’re ensuring a helpless lone woman walking in the dark makes it back home safe. Clearly, this qualifies as hero work.” You almost protested at the helpless damsel in distress routine. You were fine. Barely far from home, it was barely dark and you did this every night. But, you realized he was just trying to sneak in some time with you. So, you kept your mouth shut.

“Fine," came the reply. “It’s been quiet tonight anyway.” Now that you could see him, you realize who Izuku’s companion was. In his hero costume, Ground Zero was easily recognizable.

“(Y/N),” Izuku says noticing you eyeing his friend. “This is…”

“Ground Zero,” you finish for him. “It’s an honor to meet you.”

“Of course it is,” came his reply. “Call me Bakugou. And you must be… the girl distracting Deku from his duties.”

You went to respond. But, at that he turned around and started walking ahead of you. “He likes you,” whispered Izuku. In response you just give him a disbelieving look. “No really. Sense he chose his hero name, he doesn’t let anyone call him anything else. And he just offered for you to call him by his name.”

“But, he lets you call him Kachan,” you point out.

“Yes well, he likes me to,” Izuku whispered.

“Oy, stupid Deku. Let’s get this over with already!”

“If you say so,” you tell Izuku before moving to follow after the angry hero.

It doesn’t take long for you to arrive back home and Izuku lingered with you for a little longer, ignoring his friends angry shouts. “So, listen. I was able to get tomorrow night off,” Izuku tells you.

“He means we all forced him to take a full 12 hours off when we caught him passes out in his food in between patrol shifts,” interrupted Ground Zero.

“Thank you, Kachan,” Izuku shouted back at him. “Your help is not needed.”

“I’ve seen your attempts at flirting,” responded Bakugou. “You need any help you can get.” You were giggling at this point watching them. It reminded you of two brothers fighting. You had a feeling these two cared a lot more about each other than they were letting on.

“Anyway,” continued Izuku. “I was wondering if you’d like to have dinner at my place.”

“Deku! That is not…” shouted Bakugou.

“So, what do you think?” asked Izuku ignoring his friend.

“I would love to,” you quickly tell him. “But, it sounds like you need to use that time to rest. I didn’t realize you were pushing yourself this hard.”

“I’ll be fine he reassured you,” again cutting off Bakugou’s yelling. “I’ll get plenty of sleep that night and they’re insisting I eat a proper meal. I don’t see why I can’t share that meal with you.”

“I guess it’s alright as long as you promise to get lots of sleep,” you finally reply.

“Great,” he replied. As soon as he heard your agreement, Bakugou grabbed Izuku by the back of his hero costume and started pulling him down the street. “I’ll text you the address tomorrow. See you soon,” He shouted to you as he struggled against his friend’s hold. You waved goodbye to Izuku and laughed at their bickering as you and Blu headed back inside.

Chapter Text

Chapter 8- Thinking Future

You anxiously waited for the end of the day. You were excited to see Izuku again as it had been weeks sense you had spent more then 15 minutes with him. When you got back from Blu's nightly walk, you quickly changed before hopping into your uber. Izuku had texted you the address that morning and you were trying hard not to be nervous as you recognized the neighborhood he live in. You already knew that he had to have money. Most hero's did. Being the most popular one was probably pretty lucrative as well. But, you just kept reminding yourself that it was just Izuku you were going there to see. He wasn’t swayed by that type of thing. He had never made you feel less then worthy.

The uber pulled up to a nice apartment building and you were surprised when Izuku opened your door for you. Smiling at your surprise, he helped you out before pulling you close and kissing you. “I was too excited to see you to wait,” he told you pulling you in for another quick kiss.

“Me too,” you say melting into him. “I’ve really missed you.”

“I know,” he told you understandingly. “I’m sorry. Please just hang in there a little longer. Soon, I’ll have much more time for you.” He pulled away from you at that and grabbed your hand. He waved your uber driver off before leading you into his building.

On the way up he informed you that he actually shared the apartment with Bakugou as it had been easier for them, staying only temporarily. But, that he wasn’t there tonight, as he was patrolling. Looking around the apartment you were surprised to see how sparsely decorated it was. But, after thinking about it, it made sense as they had planned on being in the states for only maybe a few months. This is basically a hotel for them. Your heart sank as realization really hit you hard. What were you going to do when it came time for Izuku to go back to Japan?

Izuku must have noticed the shift in mood. “Is something wrong?” he asked you. You considered just brushing it off and telling him it was nothing, not wanting to risk ruining what you had. But, you realized it was something the two of you should discuss.

“It just sunk in for me,” you tell him. “You don't live here. Your going to go home once you catch this guy your hunting. What happens then?”

He nodded at you before responding. “I know. I’ve been thinking about that myself. And yes the plan was to head back home. But, that was before I met you. I’ve already discussed with an agency here about helping them out for awhile. It is still only temporary. Eventually, I’m going to either need to return to my agency or move it here. But, it won’t be something that will be an issue for awhile. But, when it is, we'll make the decision together. I don’t want you to think that this is a fling for me. Your my soulmate and that means a lot to me. I’m not going to just throw something that amazing away. Even if that element wasn’t there in our relationship, id still feel the same. You are kind, selfless, smart and so strong. You haven’t yet told me much about your childhood. But, I can tell, it wasn’t an easy one. But, you didn’t let it effect your adult life or stop you from obtaining your dreams. In that way, you and I are more similar then you yet realize. It also doesn’t hurt that your one of the most beautiful women I’ve ever seen. I am very serious about you, and I hope you feel the same.”

“I do,” you assure him blushing at the unexpected praise. “And thank you for doing that. I’m sure it can’t be easy to be in an entirely different country then your own agency. I appreciate the effort that your making for me. And just to make it clear, I think the world of you. So much so, that sometimes I worry I’m not good enough. But, then you have such a way of effortlessly putting me at ease. I already think your amazing and can’t wait to learn more.”

He responded by surging forward and pulling you into a deep kiss. “Never think your not good enough,” he tells you breathless from your kiss. You are, you really are.” He kisses you one last time before leaning back away from you.

“Thank you,” you tell him. “Say stuff like that enough and I may just start believing it myself.”

“Your welcome,” he responds. “Its true. And don’t concern yourself with worrying about the state of my agency. It really should be just fine for awhile. I have side kicks that can keep things running. Honestly, the only hard part about staying here longer, is being separate from my mom.” He stopped you when he saw your eyes go wide. “No, no, I talk with her all the time. And she was very excited to hear about you. She has no problem with me staying here for you. She'd like to meet you actually, if your up for it.”

“I’d love to,” you tell him honored.

“She’ll he happy to learn that,” he tells you. “Now, I would love to tell you that I cooked for you. But, Bakugou reminded me of my cooking skills and that poisoning you wouldn’t be a good idea. So, I had some food delivered.”

“That’s fine,” you say laughing. “I’m not much for cooking myself.”

The two of you ate curled up together on the couch watching Netflix, missing large chunks of the movie due to the occasional kisses running down your neck or fingers running down your arm making it impossible to concentrate. After two movies you decided it was time for you to go. Izuku did need his rest after all. You helped him clean up before you left. He insisted on walking you down and seeing you into the uber. It was pretty late.

Walking out of the kitchen, you noticed a small notebook labeled quirk analysis. You smiled at Izuku. “I know you told me you were obsessed with and analyzed quirks when you were younger. I didn’t know you still did it.”

“Yeah,” he replied coming up behind you. I’ve been doing it less often. But, it helps me focus and distress at times. That reminds me. I keep forgetting to ask and I’m curious. What’s your quirk?”

Panic hits you hard. The smile immediately vanished from your face and you could hear your heart pounding in your ears. Not now, you screamed in your head. Please not now. You barely felt when Izuku placed a gentle hand on your arm and asked if you were alright. You weren’t alright. Your world was crumbling around you. Why did it have to happen now? Things were going so well. He actually cared about you, as you cared about him. Why did you do this to yourself? Why did you do this to him? How could you do this to him? Your mind came back to you at that realization. You looked up to his worried face. His gentle, kind and worried face. You let him get attached. He practically put his life on hold for more time with you. How selfish could you be?

You couldn’t face him, let alone respond. “I need to go,” you finally say.

“Okay,” the responded immediately. “Look, I don’t want to leave you alone like this. Let me just grab Kachan's keys and I’ll… (Y/N)?”

But you were already out of the apartment. You ran out of the building and just kept running. You could hear Izuku calling out to you. But, you knew he'd already lost sight of you.

Chapter Text

9- The True Meaning of Quirks

Your burning lungs finally forced you to stop running. As you calmed, you started to realize what you had just done. Izuku must be very confused and worried about you, just taking off in the middle of the night with no explanation. You decided to call him when you got home. Explain everything and apologize for taking off on him… and for letting it get this far.

Now that you had calmed from your initial panic, fear began to set in. You weren’t sure where you were and it was very late. You pulled your phone out planning on calling an uber when an annoyed voice spoke behind you. “Are you done running now?”
You turned around in shock to face him both surprised he had found you and relieved as you weren’t in the best neighborhood.
“How did you find me?” you asked him.

“Really? Don’t be stupid. I’m a top hero. I find and stop powerful villains on a daily basis. You really think I can’t find and follow some stupid girl running from her own shadow?”

“That’s harsh,” you say. “But, I guess I deserved that.”

“Oh, look whose using her brain,” he replied.

“Thank you for coming after me, Bakagou,” you tell him.

“Yeah, just don’t worry us like that again. I don’t ever want to get a call like that from Deku again,” he told you.

Guilt washed over you at hearing that. Bakagou's usual angry expression softened a small amount. “Look,” he says. “I’m not really angry at you. Neither is Deku. We were just worried and confused. What happened anyway?” When you didn't respond he continued. “I may have ignored any classes having to do with this sort of stuff. But, even I can recognize a panic attack when I see it. And Deku definitely can. The question is, what triggered it. I’m guessing it has to do with your quirk.” He rolled his eyes at your shocked face. “That nerd talks too much when he’s anxious. Let’s just get you home.”

Bakagou got you into an uber before returning to his patrol. You decided you would call Izuku in the morning to discuss things and most likely break things off. You felt yourself tear up at that thought. But, you knew it was inevitable. You felt your heart ache at the thought. But, you kept the tears at bay until you reached your clinic. You were unable to hold the sobs back anymore when you saw Izuku sitting on the front steps of your clinic, looking both anxious and relieved to see you.

“Kachan text me when he found you,” he said. “I’m really glad your safe.”

Crying, you couldn’t stop yourself from falling into his arms, despite your own brains protest. You felt all the tension release from his shoulders and he immediately wrapped His arms around you almost too tight. He held you there as you cried into his chest. He didn’t speak. Just soothingly rubbed your back and kissed your cheek. It felt so nice to be held by him. You felt warm and safe and loved. You almost believed for a moment that this wasn’t the end. That you got to keep him.
When your sobbing had started to subside, Izuku bent down to place his mouth by your ear. “How about we continue this inside?” he suggested. You nodded your head and silently led him by the hand inside and up to your apartment. You both settled onto the couch and you immediately latched yourself back to his chest and he responded by wrapping his arms around you. You were vaguely aware of Blu climbing onto the couch beside you and resting his head and one paw on your leg. Little Bit sat down in front of the couch and eyed you with an anxious expression.

You took one last moment to enjoy the feeling of being in Izuku's arms, knowing it was the end before opening your mouth to speak. “I’m sorry,” you told him. ”I’m sorry for running out on you with no explanation. I’m sorry for worrying you and causing problems when you already have so much stuff stressing you out. I’m sorry for allowing you to waste so much time and energy on me. It was so selfish of me to let this get this far. You are amazing Izuku, and the greatest person I have ever met.”

“I don’t understand,” Izuku told you. “What’s the problem?”

“The problem is I’ve been hiding something about myself from you. I'd hoped you would never bring it up. But, I knew that wasn’t realistic.” You felt your anxiety build again as you got ready to speak the words you knew would cause Izuku to leave immediately. Your breath caught in your throat as tears started running down your face again. You felt your hands tremble until Izuku pulled you closer into his chest, taking your shaking hands in his. You opened your mouth knowing you couldn’t delay this anymore. “Its about my quirk. You see I…”

“No,” Izuku cut you off.

“What?” you asked looking up at him surprised.

“No,” he said again. “I don’t want to know.” At your confused look he continued. “I mean, I do want to know. Because, I want to know everything about you.” He paused wiping away the tears from your cheeks. “But, only what your willing to tell me. You don’t have to tell me. I hope you do one day. I hope you trust me enough one day. But, I won’t ask you again.”

The relief washed over you so hard you burst out crying again. He responded by pulling you tighter to his chest.
“Really?” you asked in a small voice.

“Yes,” he responded. “But, just so you know, my opinion isn’t changed by that sort of thing. I am really interested in quirks. But, a quirk doesn't define a person. I have a friend I met back in my first year of UA. He was working toward becoming a hero. But, he was in the general studies course. He had a truly amazing quirk. But, it wasn’t a flashy physical quirk. So, he failed the practical. He also had another problem. The quirk he had, while strong, didn’t fit in the stereotype of hero like quirks. It was more like one a villain would have. See, if he could get you to respond to one of his questions, he could take control of your body and order you to do anything. But, a quirk is something your born with. You have no control over it. What you do have control over, is how you choose to use it. A quirk alone does not a good or bad person make.”

You loved this man, you realized. You'd only known him a few months. But, you were sure. You loved him. You couldn’t risk loosing him.

“What happened to him?” you finally asked. “To your friend.”

“Oh,” Izuku respond. “He caught the attention of one of the teachers, who decided to mentor him. He's now claimed the number 17 spot.”

“That’s great,” you tell him quietly. After awhile you continue. “I don’t think… Izuku, I don’t think I'll ever be able to share this with you.”

“That's OK,” he responded rubbing your back.

You hesitate before continuing not sure if you should reveal this much. After some time you come to a decision. “My parents… they gave me up when they found out about my quirk.”

You felt him tense up and all movement stopped. Recovering quickly, he pulled you in tighter to his chest and bent down to kiss the top of your head. “I’m sorry,” he tells you. “But, that was their loss.” You responded with a kiss to his chest before laying your head back down to his chest.

Chapter Text

10- Morning After

When you woke the next morning, you were surprised to find yourself in your living room. But, soon you realized the comfortable pillow you were cuddling into was not a pillow at all and the night before came rushing back to you. Apparently the two of you had fallen asleep on your couch soon after your conversation. Grinning you nuzzled yourself further into Izuku's chest. Glancing behind you, you found Blu sound asleep on your legs. And your heart warmed at seeing Little Bit asleep curled up half on Izuku's foot.

You glanced up, enjoying the calm expression on Izuku's face as he slept. You knew you should wake him soon. You both had work this morning after all and you weren’t sure when he had to go in. You felt another wave of guilt for the trouble you had caused him the night before. Poor guy was clearly exhausted.
Moving slowly, you attempted to extract yourself from his arms without waking him. You were surprised at just how heavy his arm was as you slowly lifted one of them off you. You got about halfway there, when Izuku moved, wrapping his arms around you once again. You looked up quickly thinking you had woke him. But, thankfully Izuku was still sound asleep. You waited just a few moments to ensure he was fully asleep, before trying again.

This time you were successfully able to lift both his arms without waking him. Holding his arms up you pulled yourself up into a sitting position, waking Blu in the process when you pulled your legs out from under him. He blinked at you sleepily for a moment before laying his head back down on the couch and silently watched you. You stood up then still holding Izuku’s arms up, looking for a pillow you could replace yourself with. That became unnecessary however, as Blu chose to claim the warm spot on Izuku you had vacated. Smiling at Blu as he nestled himself into Izuku's chest you slowly lowered Izuku’s arms back down onto Blu which he immediately wrapped around him in his sleep.

Stepping back from the couch you grinned at the adorable sight. Izuku half laying on your couch, feet on the floor where Little Bit was still sleeping, head resting on a foot. Blu happily laying on his chest sound asleep as Izuku's arms held him close. Reaching for your phone, you ensured the flash was off before snapping a picture of the three of them. You quickly set it as your wallpaper, considering for a moment the meaning behind the switch from a pic of just Blu to your boyfriend with your two dogs.

With one last glance at them you made your way to your kitchen, intent on making Izuku some breakfast, so he could get just that much more sleep. You started the coffee maker before starting to make breakfast burritos. Something he could eat on the go, if necessary.

Finishing that, you plated a couple and poured a cup of coffee. Walking back into your living room, you placed them down on your coffee table before leaning down and lightly shaking your boyfriend awake.

“Izuku,” you call quietly.

You see him grin and pull Blu in a little tighter. “Good morning,” he told you eyes still closed. Blu had awoken when Izuku had adjusted his hold and was looking up at him, head still on his chest. Izuku opened his eyes and directed a smile down at Blu. You held in your laughter watching Izuku sleepily stare down at Blu, with an adorably confused look. Seeing Izuku looking at him, Blu pushed himself up and gave Izuku a couple licks to his face. You burst into laughter at that. Izuku, now fully awake, chuckled as he rubbed a hand down his face. “Thank you Blu,” he said. “But, not quite the good morning kiss I was looking for.” Glancing up at you, he laughed along with you. “Please don’t tell me you went to your bedroom after I fell asleep and I’ve been cuddling a dog all night.”

Laughing, you shook your head at him. “No, he took my place when I got up this morning.” Nodding at that, he sat up extracting himself from the two dogs.

“I made breakfast,” you tell him leaning down to kiss him on his hair.

“Thank you,” he told you smiling at the food. “I didn’t know when you needed to go to work, so I made something easily eaten on the go,” you told him.

Pulling his phone out of his pocket, he checked the time. “I have a few minutes, of you don’t mind me sticking around a little longer.”

“Of course not,” you told him grabbing your own food and sitting down next to him.

After the two of you enjoyed your breakfast, Izuku informed you that he had to head in for work do you got up to walk him out.
You walked him down to the front door, right past Jess, who was just getting in. She gave you a grin and a not so subtle look, gesturing about Izuku coming from your apartment early in the morning. You glared and shook your head at her before continuing to walk with Izuku. You noticed him now sporting an amused grin and knew he hadn’t missed Jess's gesturing. Blushing, you were grateful he chose not to comment on them.
Once you reached the doors, Izuku turned to you and placed a short sweet kiss to your lips.

“Thanks for breakfast,” he told you. I'll text you this afternoon.”
“Okay,” you said. Leaning up to kiss him again. “Go get the bad guys.”

“Of course,” he replied walking out the door with one last wave.
Turning around you saw Jess sitting at the front desk, grinning back at you, clearly enjoying herself. “So…” she starts giving you that look you knew meant trouble.

“I need to get dressed for work and take care of the dogs,” you interrupt her, heading for the stairs to your apartment.

“That’s OK,” she called after you. “There’s plenty of time to interrogate you later.”

Chapter Text

11- Friendship

You spent the majority of the work day avoiding Jess, not really wanting to explain how Izuku had ended up spending the night at your apartment. She was patient and didn’t push you. But, throughout the day sent you curious amused looks that had you looking away blushing.

She hung back around with you at the end of the day and when you leashed up Blu she grabbed her own dog and joined you on your walk. Jess's dog was a stunning beautiful golden retriever named Todd. She brought him often with her to work and he and Blu were the best of friends. Todd during the day however chose to sleep in your office rather then roam the lobby with Blu.
Blue was excited to have his buddy join him on his walk and you and Jess decided to walk them to a nearby dog park so they could play. The two of you sat down on one of the benches in the park and watched the dogs play.

“So…” Jess starts after awhile. “I thought you were having dinner at his place. How did the two of you end up sleeping at your apartment?”

“That’s a bit of a long story,” you reply.

Jess briefly glanced over at Todd and Blu who were happily running the length of the park with some new friends.
“Blu and Todd say we have time,” she tells you.

You sigh at that knowing she wasn’t going to let it go. “Okay, so the date started out great,” you start. “I expressed to him some concerns I had about how he was only temporarily living here and what would happen when he moved back to Japan. Jess, he had already handled it. It’s still only a temporary fix and eventually something more permanent will have to be decided. But, it’s a longer temporary that gives us time to decide together what we want to do. He was so sweet, telling me why he cared for me, calling me brave of all things. He wanted to make it clear that he was serious about dating me and that I wasn’t a fling in his mind.”

“Hot,” Jess replied. “I can see why you chose to continue the night. What I don’t understand is why go to your apartment when you were already at his.”

“Jess,” you interrupted her. “I told you already. Nothing like that happened.”

“Why?” she asked. “He was there all night looking all hunky and sweet.”

Rolling your eyes at her you responded. “Moving on,” you demanded. “Well, at the end of the night, he asked about something. Something I really hoped he wouldn’t.” You had to be careful about this. Jess didn’t know about your quirk and had never asked. You were all too aware that you were risking the closest friendship you ever had by mentioning it and putting the question in her head. “I got so scared of his reaction and so heart broken believing we were over. I had what I suspect was a panic attack and I ran out the door with barely and word to Izuku.”

“Oh, wow,” Jess said quietly giving you a sympathetic look.

“I wasn't thinking clearly and ran off in a random direction really late at night, only stopping when my body forced me to,” you confessed.

“(Y/N),” started Jess.

“I know,” you tell her. “Not the smartest move. But, like I said, I wasn’t thinking clearly. Thankfully, a friend of Izuku's, Ground Zero found me and sent me back home safely. Izuku was waiting for me when I arrived home. I explained why and apologized for taking off on him. He was really understanding about the whole thing. Just asked I not take off like that again as he was really scared for me. I figured after all I'd put him through that night, I at least owed him an answer to his original question, the one I hoped he'd never ask about. But, he stopped me before I could tell him saying he only wanted to know, if I was willing to tell him and said it was OK when I shared with him that I don’t think I ever could. We ended up falling asleep together on my couch which is why you saw him coming down with me this morning. Thankfully, it seems like he and I are OK. More then that. Last night he shared his view on some things last night. Jess, he's such a smart, caring and amazing person and I realized last night that I love him. I didn’t say anything. Its too soon. But, I love that man.”

Glancing back at Jess you waited for her response. “I’m really happy for you,” she said. “I’m glad you found someone like him. I just have a few questions for you.”
You braced yourself for her to ask you about what you had been so scared to tell Izuku. Tension rolled off of you in waves. You immediately started thinking of all the different ways you could dodge telling her the truth. “So,” Jess started. “Is Ground Zero as hot as he appears on TV and is he single? And if both those answers are yes, when can you introduce me?”
The tension drained out of you as you laughed at Jess's questions. You were reminded again just why she was your best friend. She never failed to lighten a tense moment and put all involved at ease. “Why are you laughing?” she asks with a grin. “I’m serious.” You rolled your eyes at her as she laughed as well.
After your laughter had died down however, she asked the question you were anticipating.

“What was it you were so scared to tell Deku?”

Taking a deep breath, you looked to your best friend curiously watching you. Maybe she'd be content with the amount of info you had offered Izuku. “It has to do with my quirk. You see ever since I found out what it is, people looked at me differently. My parents gave me up because of it. I had good foster parents in good homes begin the process of adopting me only to change their minds when they found out. Until only abusive or neglectful families wanted me. Even that was always temporary. The kids at school and sometimes even teachers could be so cruel with their bullying. I’ve had friends and boyfriends that I got close to and cared about turn me away when they discovered my secret. As a result, I avoid close relationships and when I do become attached, like I am with you and Izuku, I avoid them finding out at any cost.”

“I am so sorry you went through that,” she tells you sadly. “You didn’t deserve any of that. You are a fantastic person, (Y/N). They were all idiots for not being able to look past your quirk to see… well you.” She reached forward and pulled you into a hug.
“Thank you,” you tell her grateful for her words. But, also that she wasn’t insisting on knowing what your quirk was.
Still hugging you she gave a little chuckle before speaking. “You know, before you told me this, I had always just assumed you were quirkless.” Stunned, you immediately pull back from her to stare in shock. “What’s wrong?” she asked you. “Its not that far fetched for me to assume that. After years of knowing you and no quirk being brought up or showing itself, I just figured you didn’t have one.”

You continued to just stare in shock at her until you found your voice again. “You knew?” you asked in disbelief. “You’ve known all this time. But, why are you… Why didn’t you… What? I don’t understand,” you manage to get out.

“What do you mean?” Jess asked before you saw realization hit her. Just as soon as it had you saw her eyes blaze in anger. After seeing it, you looked away unable to look at her. Unable to watch her leave. “Everything you just told me. All those people that abandoned you, including your parents was all because you didn’t have a quirk?” she all but shouted at you.

You flinched at her tone, wishing it would just be over with. You weren’t even paying attention to the words. You were just too busy holding yourself together as she yelled. You felt something shoved into your lap, pulling you back to the present. You glanced down to see two fluffy heads on your lap staring up at you in concern. You smiled sadly at them. This is why you loved dogs. Always so loyal and supportive, no matter your faults. Not humans, humans always left you.

But, to your shock you suddenly felt human arms wrap around you, as Jess pulled you to her. You were even more surprised to feel tears fall from her eyes as she buried her face in her neck. For all the years you had known her, Jess had never cried. She was always so strong and nothing ever phased her. “I’m sorry I scared you by getting mad. I’m not mad at you. I promise. I was angry at all those other people who let you down. I don’t know what was wrong with them that something like this caused them to act like that. They were the one’s with the flaw. There is nothing wrong with you (Y/N). This changes nothing between us. I’m still your best friend and I always will be. How they treated you before was wrong. And a lot of people are not going to see you the same way they did. Actually, I take it back. My opinion of you has changed. I think your just that much more amazing. I think Deku was spot on when he called you brave. I’m sorry you had to deal with all those idiots. But, its over now and I’m so proud of you for rising above it.”

You held each other for a long time. You were in a public park so every once in awhile a stranger would give you strange looks. But, they all backed off after one look from Jess. After some time, you pulled away from her and wiped your eyes dry. “Thank you Jess,” you say. “No or has ever… Thank you.”

“You bet,” she tells you. “And, I understand your reluctance but I really think Izuku wouldn’t judge you for this either.”

“No, I can’t tell him. It’s different in his case Jess. He was born with an amazing quirk and went to school surrounded with amazing quirks and works with people with amazing quirks. Quirks are important in his life. Why would he waste his time with someone like me if he knew. Why would he want to knowingly risk his future children ending up quirkless.”
“But, surely he’s your soulmate for a reason,” Jess replied. “Maybe he’d understand.”

“There’s no way Izuku would understand a quirkless person like me,” you insisted.

“Well, thankfully it sounds like he’s not going to press the issue. So, you’ve got time,” she replied. “Now,” she said changing the subject. “I think its about time to get these fluff butts home.” At that both of you called your dogs back and started leashing the exhausted but happy pups. “By the way,” Jess starts. “About Ground Zero… I was serious. Maybe Deku could set up a double date?” You laughed at that leading Blu out of the park. “What?” continued Jess. “You’re the only one who gets some hunky hero lovin? Don’t think I can handle an angry explosive hero?”

“Oh, I know you could,” you reply. “I just don’t know if he could handle you.”