Work Text:
Shinsou learned quickly that Monoma really was a team player. Made sense-- he was forced to, due to his quirk-- but he genuinely loved Class 1B. Though being the self-elected president (in his mind, anyway), no one truly disliked him considering all his, ah, antics. The way outsiders talked about Monoma could be brutal, but his classmates were supportive. Sure, they teased him, and often made him the butt of the joke, but it was obvious they relied on Monoma for leadership and stability. It didn't seem like it for outsiders, but Monoma really was the one keeping everyone together.
The second thing Shinsou learned from this was that Monoma, despite everything, could be kind. Like an older sibling for his classmates, which made sense, because he actually was one of the eldest. Monoma lead study sessions, often checked on everyone via group chat or DM, encouraged everyone fiercely, and overall worked very, very hard to personally improve his class. Self-aware, honest, and yet frowned upon... Shinsou found him interesting. And if Monoma disliked his role or anyone in his class, he definitely didn't show or imply it. He was like a motherly soldier who didn't know when to quit, and it was actually amusing sometimes, sense Kendou puts him in his place and is officially the "more loving one".
Monoma already considered Shinsou his friend, ever since the Class 1A vs Class 1B exam. He was the first person to confront Shinsou, both during that time and now as Shinsou's first week being in the hero course begins. They happened to make eye contact as Vlad King introduced Shinsou to the class. Monoma gave him a smile, and Shinsou couldn't help that his lips slightly turned upward, too. Nervously, Shinsou quickly observed the others' expressions. Most looked at Shinsou with polite interest, or were welcoming, a few being indifferent. Well, it was better than previous times when Shinsou had to move schools as a kid. Everyone seemed skittish around him even without knowing his quirk, and of course adding "brainwashing" as a word associated with him, people stayed away.
Shinsou's seat was placed next to a girl with short silver hair and a rather plain-looking boy with dark brown hair. They seemed like the casual type, unlike a few others who were already talking excitedly or messing around. They weren't as bad as some notorious kids in Class 1A, Shinsou noted, and he couldn't help but to think maybe the seating arrangement was specifically arranged for the purpose of Shinsou remaining calm. Probably wishful and selfish thinking, but wouldn't Monoma be the type to put in a few words to Vlad King so a fellow student could get adjusted...?
Glancing at Monoma, he was apparently telling off some of the said loud classmates, but he was calm. Not like the exam, Shinsou added in his head. No, this must be the real Neito Monoma. Beneath all the bravado and sass.
Sometime during a small break in class Monoma carefully went up to Shinsou. Not in a fearful way, but in politeness. He was still smiling, and it was rather cute. "Welcome to the better class," Monoma said with a teasing undertone, "you made the right decision, as I hoped for."
Shinsou nodded, smiling gently. Monoma continued: "Of course, it's my job to make sure you're settling in. So ask me if you need anything. I don't care if you're not here to make friends, or whatever-- You've already made one."
Scoffing, Shinsou said: "I guess I have no choice, then."
"You don't." Monoma handed Shinsou a slip of paper. "Here's my number, and my Instagram. That's how I keep up with everyone in class. You're no exception. I'll leave you alone in case you need time to process everything." He chuckled and added lightly: "Must be weird transferring from one thing to the next so suddenly."
"Thank you." Monoma walked away, and Shinsou felt relief. He really did need time to process all the new students, the new atmosphere, and honestly his anti-social self wasn't yet prepared to talk to everyone yet. So Monoma's patience and distance made an impression on Shinsou, greatly.
And the weird thing was, Monoma's official behavior didn't feel formal at all. Not as it probably should've been.
Right before lunch, Kendou asked if Shinsou would like to sit with everyone else as a first day welcome. She didn't seem scared at all to talk to him, even though Shinsou was sure everyone knew about his quirk by now.
"Oh," Shinsou said, trying not to sound sarcastic or rude. "Maybe that would be the proper thing to do, but, ah... I think I need time by myself. If it doesn't bother you."
Kendou's eyes widened in understanding. "Oh! Of course! Just let us know! We're always open." She seemed genuinely kind, too. Shinsou nodded and sat alone at a somewhat nearby table. He answered a text from Aizawa, the conversation as follows:
the cat dad: Hitoshi, is your day going okay so far?
hitoshi: Yeah, these people aren't that bad and everyone's not in my face. So. Basically perfect.
the cat dad: That's good. If you need anything I could always slap sense into Vlad King. Also any kid who messes with you. Though I doubt that will happen, 1B is full of well-behaved kids. Unlike some of the bullshit I have to deal with
hitoshi: haha yeah good luck with that. hopefully i can still see you sometimes? i mean it might be hard sense i'm not in 1A
the cat dad: Don't worry about that, I just want you to be happy. We can meet sometimes at lunch if you'd like, assuming you're keeping away from most kids for the first little bit.
Shinsou bit the inside of his cheek and subtly glanced at the 1B table. Vine girl began to pray when Tetsutetsu and a guy with odd teeth knocked over a juice box as a boy with lighter hair yelped and tried to clean it up. Kendou was offering napkins as the silver-haired girl from class shielded her face with a deadpan expression. A beastly-looking guy was laughing at the top of his lungs, and Monoma could be seen confused as he was just about to sit down.
hitoshi: well, i do want them to be used to me being around them. so i kinda have to stay here
the cat dad: Valid. Have a nice day and don't try to be too standoffish
hitoshi: lol we'll see
Shinsou took out the paper Monoma gave him and saved his contacts.
When Shinsou arrived home with Aizawa the two immediately flopped on the couch and played with Aizawa's many cats. Life had become simple and peaceful this way, the enjoyment of chilling with your new parental figure that happened to share the same exclusiveness as you, as Shinsou thought about it. After years of shitty adults and perhaps even worse kids, Shinsou was surprised he trusted Aizawa at all.
A few minutes passed before Aizawa said, "Okay, spill everything."
So Shinsou told Aizawa about his first impressions. "Vlad King is kinda loud and unsettling but I like the way he teaches, more or less, I mean he's not as good as you but slowly I'll warm up to him ... All the students seem chilll ... There was this one funny moment in the cafeteria today ... I was even put in a group chat with all the other students." Shinsou didn't want to mention his growing curiosity in Monoma, that would make Shinsou seem too easily swayed and besides all of 1A already didn't find Monoma pleasing, what would Aizawa say if his first friend was the infamous copycat? Aizawa liked cats and everything but Monoma was a different story.
Aizawa listened patiently and without judgment. Sometime he'd offer commentary but mostly he nodded, with an expression Shinsou learned to be his affectionate face. "That's good. You know, the only thing I have to say that might be drastically changing-- and something I haven't yet discussed with you-- is about the dormitory."
Shinsou's face fell when the words soaked in. "Oh..."
"Don't give me that look," Aizawa chided half-heartedly. "I'm not telling you to get out of my house. I want you to be comfortable and happy wherever you decide to be. But I also don't want to keep you from having friends and trying to be more social. Trust me, I love my alone time and I'm still not really good with connecting. But I am a team player and I know the importance of keeping a few trustworthy comrades. I just don't want you to take as long as I did to realize people are good to have around." Aizawa usually didn't get too sentimental, but when he did it was just the amount of calm and caring. "I know you've grown so much since the first time I met you. And honestly, I'd actually prefer if you stayed here with me. But don't be afraid to make friends, okay? They're probably better than my kids."
Shinsou chuckled a little. "I understand. I'll think about it."
"Good. I've already talked to Vlad about this, but I'll be sure to tell him your opinion hasn't changed yet. He's very interested in you, and I'll sure let him know if he's being overbearing. As usual." Laughing, he sipped his coffee.
Shinsou pulled out his folder. "So, Vlad gave me an extra day to work on the homework, but I guess I want to ask you if your class has already went over it? I won't cheat or anything, I just want to know where the hero course stands in general."
Suddenly Shinsou received a notification. One was for the 1B group chat-- apparently, the members were active-- and one was an individual DM from Monoma. "Wait, hold that thought."
Monoma's message made Shinsou's heart race with nervousness and excitement:
Hi! Sorry to bother you, Shinsou-kun. I was just wondering if you would be okay if I brought you lemon cake tomorrow? I don't know if you're a fan of sweets but consider it my welcoming gift to you!
Shinsou reread the message a few times before finally replying:
I haven't had lemon cake, and honestly I'm not huge on sweets, but I accept your gift
Monoma's reply was very excited. Oh good!! See you tomorrow, Shinsou-kun
Aizawa looked curious, but said nothing.
The next day Shinsou almost forgot about the lemon cake. He was so caught up with remembering his new locker combination, directions, names and actual learning content (plus countless permission slips he had to fill out) that he almost paid Monoma no attention at all. To be fair, Monoma had been glancing at him more today, as if waiting for something to happen. Until lunch, of course, because that's when Monoma gave him the sweet gift.
"Hi, Shinsou-kun," Monoma said rather softly as he paused at Shinsou's table. "I brought the lemon cake."
"Oh, right-- Thank you." Right. So he wasn't kidding. Not that Shinsou thought Monoma was careless about his words or anything, it just still seemed so surreal the blond had any interest in him whatsoever.
Monoma took the plastic wrapping off the plate and sat it in front of Shinsou. "Enjoy! And be sure to tell me if you liked it. I made it myself, after all." Monoma said this casually, as if unconditional kindness wasn't a big deal for him at all. Knowing Monoma, perhaps that was a stretch.
"Oh? Well... I'll definitely text you." Shinsou was almost at a loss for words.
"Good. See you later." Monoma waved goodbye and Shinsou nodded, shocked that the situation didn't turn into a whole ordeal. Gosh, I sound lame. I mean, I'm not used to friends. So that's pretty natural.
Shyly taking a bite of the cake, Shinsou made sure everyone wasn't looking at him. I mean, Monoma wasn't trying to be subtle, and Shinsou was pretty sure the whole hero course knew how overly accepting Monoma was when it came to him, a freaking newbie. I mean, you had to earn Monoma's trust, and yet he never hesitated about being close to Shinsou. He was the only exception, it seemed.
The cake was nice-- there was a balanced sweetness, and it was fluffy. The serving wasn't big either. The icing had been handled with deliberate care and Shinsou wanted to hate that the secondary color of the cake was purple. A direct reference to Shinsou's bright purple, messy hair. Except the cake wasn't messy at all, it was delicious and amazing, and that's coming from someone who usually disliked sweets. Maybe because it was a gift from somebody Shinsou actually didn't find annoying that the cake was impressive. But either way, Shinsou blushed at the gesture, knowing Monoma's hands specifically crafted it for him, willingly.
Gosh, this dude has the nerve to make me feel emotions and shit. He really hoped the faint pink on his cheeks didn't look too awful with the bright purple hair, or the white cake.
Okay, so he was definitely not used to these thoughts.
*
A text wouldn't properly convey Shinsou's gratitude, and yet Shinsou knew he'd be terribly awkward and even seemingly insincere if he tried to talk to Monoma. This was only his second day, he couldn't mess anything up.
the cat dad: Your day still going well?
hitoshi: yes but i'm contemplating talking to someone. gosh people are annoying
the cat dad: is someone bothering you?
hitoshi: kind of? but like, they're being nice
the cat dad: Oh
There was a pause. "Oh"? Is that all he had to say?
the cat dad: Does this mean you're trying to be nice?
Shinsou snorted as he shot back: yes, ironic right. but really i don't know what to say
the cat dad: Easy. "Thank you." And then walk off
hitoshi: it warms my heart knowing you were terrible at emotions too
the cat dad: Ah, so you ARE feeling emotions?
hitoshi: damn, i've been cornered
the cat dad: Spill
Shinsou sighed heavily.
hitoshi: not right now, class is about to start
the cat dad: Forgive me for being such a bad influence
Shinsou thought it was now or never. He decided it would be weird to stand in front of Monoma, so he simply sat down in an empty desk next to the blond and tapped his shoulder.
Monoma looked up, surprised but... delighted? Was that the word?
"Thanks for the cake. It was really good."
Monoma smiled. "Of course, any time! I have plenty left, you know, so if you want more, it's all yours."
"I'd like that."
"Good! Do you like 1B so far?"
Well, Shinsou wasn't prepared for a whole conversation. Rubbing his neck nervously, Shinsou said: "Yeah, I mean I feel like I can handle everyone. Eventually. You guys are certainly not as draining as 1A."
Monoma's eyes lit up at that, and a triumphant smirk crossed his face. "Oh, do continue!"
"Sorry, I don't do flattery," Shinsou teased.
"Hm! Well! It's a good start, at least. I made sure the class dynamic would fit you. I talked to Vlad about your, hm, personality. We decided Kaibara Yanagi would be best for you, they have similar anti-social tendencies."
"Oh, so that was you." Shinsou felt strangely prideful after that comment. "Well, though it sounds like you're slightly making fun of me, I acknowledge your efforts."
"You better! I really thought about it, you know."
Shinsou scoffed. "You didn't have to."
"You're in the hero course now. We kind of live for spontaneous help." Monoma hummed. "Also, my feelings about you haven't changed. I like you."
"Uh-- Well, I do too. Somehow." Shinsou laughed, almost bitterly.
Monoma grinned. "I like it when I've made the mighty fall."
"Ah, so you're still kind of an asshole."
"Hey!" Monoma swatted at Shinsou's arm playfully. "How rude you are!"
Shinsou was smiling. "In all seriousness, consider yourself lucky. I said I wasn't here to make friends, but..." Shinsou paused, lowering his gaze to the desk before meeting Monoma's clear blue eyes. "You might be an exception..." He said it almost glumly, but Monoma knew it was because he wasn't used to confessions like that.
"Alright, Hitoshi, we have ourselves a truce."
Shinsou liked when Monoma said his name. "Alright. Hey-- Class is starting, I should probably--"
"Oh, you don't have to move if you don't want to."
An invitation? To stay? I mean, that wouldn't be bad, but...
"...Sure."
Sitting next to Monoma meant getting closer to him (literally and not) and Shinsou wasn't sure if he should be nervous or relieved. Not that it was difficult being around Monoma, he was actually easygoing for the most part. Sometimes Monoma would whisper a side comment about what has happened in the past between the students, Vlad King, etc., mostly funny stories that resulted in some sort of setback. And of course, Monoma would help Shinsou with his work whenever he needed it. They hadn't shared a lengthy conversation yet, really, but that was fine for now. Shinsou's goal was simply to relax into the hero course and work hard to be on the same level as everyone else, which he doubted he was.
He mentioned this to Monoma at some point during the week. Monoma considered this, and said: "Well, if Aizawa trained you and deemed you worthy of the hero course, that shows something about you. I don't know Aizawa personally or anything, but what I have heard from Vlad King makes me think he wouldn't go easy on you. And if that's the case, you must've gone through the individual equivalent of what our class has been doing. You simply lack the team skills so far, but you've already proven yourself cooperative. I wouldn't worry about that so much." Monoma flipped over the piece of paper they were working on. "However, I'd worry about keeping your mind focused on this before your grade already slips." He had a playful smile, and Shinsou nodded his thanks-- hoping that conveyed how much he appreciated Monoma's words-- and the studying carried on.
Monoma often lead study groups, along with Kendou and a few other more "responsible" students, but he offered to personally tutor Shinsou. "I mean, you're not used to groups yet but you talk to me just fine," Monoma explained. "Besides, this can be your first hang out in the dorms. It'll be new and exciting for you! I won't be obnoxious, I promise." Shinsou scoffed but allowed to be tutored in Monoma's dorm room-- a very interesting experience, for Shinsou learned several things about the blond that day.
For example, not only was he a literature nerd in general, he was a huge comic/manga buff. He had two bookshelves dedicated to them. And although Shinsou received rich kid vibes from Monoma before (due to his elaborate hero costume), his room made it a lot more obvious with the expensive paintings, furniture, decorations, etc. It wasn't too bad, but Shinsou, coming from a foster home of 7 other main kids, felt terribly out of place. Maybe Monoma was always overdressed, but this time Shinsou looked at his baggy sweatpants and T-shirt awkwardly.
At least Monoma wasn't weird about it. He blushed a little, seemingly embarrassed, and apologized if he had already broken his promise to not be obnoxious. Shinsou shook his head defensively. "You've done nothing wrong, shut up," he said lightheartedly. "I'm guessing we're sitting at the coffee table?"
"Yes! Behold the place I have my most mental breakdowns."
Shinsou laughed at that. Self-deprecating humor was his specialty.
Monoma gestured to the lemon cake on the table. "If you're up to eating some more sweets..." It sounded almost like a challenge.
"I will eat this cake as if my life depends on it, try and stop me." Monoma laughed and Shinsou made a comment about how people probably thought the eccentric blond was trying to poison him.
"If I was going to poison you, I'd be so lonely afterward!"
Shinsou rolled his eyes.
The rest of the time went on very smoothly, and Shinsou was able to joke around as well. Even though not as much studying was accomplished, Monoma gladly showed Shinsou some of his comics and psychology books Shinsou took interest in.
"I'm guessing you're a theater kid?"
Monoma sighed heavily. "Alright, you caught me. What gave it away?"
"Oh, just my amazing intuition."
"Jerk," Monoma said with a grin.
Shinsou then asked: "So were you that kid whose family made them play piano, practice ballroom dancing and learn German and shit like that? Asking for research, of course."
"Oh, of course," Monoma said with a laugh. He then raked his hands through his blond hair before replying: "Yeah, I learned piano, French... admittedly ballroom dancing, but that wasn't as serious, you know?"
Thinking for a moment, Shinsou apologized. "Sorry, I don't mean to make fun of you. Maybe your rich parents were assholes like in the movies or something. I probably shouldn't have brought that up."
"No, no!" Monoma reassured. "My parents aren't jerks. They're questionable, and sometimes distant, but they're okay! And mostly supportive. They don't understand why I want to be hero-- why I should even try-- but it's not like they put me down or anything."
Nodding slowly--carefully-- Shinsou said: "I get that." He glanced at a picture framed on Monoma's nightstand. It had Monoma in the center, holding up a smaller girl with three more surrounding him. The girls had pink dresses as Monoma's tie was pink. Monoma appeared to be maybe ten years old. "Are these your sisters?"
"Yes," Monoma said breathlessly, prideful. "I don't see them much anymore. But they're my lovely siblings. So cute! Sometimes annoying, but I think even you wouldn't have a problem with them."
"They look like you." Shinsou smiled.
"Ah! I'm flattered! I think."
"You should be, dummy. Also I like some kids. Like Eri."
"Oh! About Eri, I'm supposed to babysit her on Friday. Do you want to come with me? I know you two are considerably close."
"Of course. You can read to her one of your comics."
Monoma suddenly did look like his younger sisters more so than Shinsou really implied-- childish delight spread across his face. "Deal!"
*
Slowly Shinsou began talking to more 1B classmates. It was, of course, thanks to Monoma. The blond would be chatting nonstop to countless students, and because Shinsou now sat next to Monoma in class, it was easy to slip in a few side comments. The first time was actually Shinsou poking fun at Monoma after other students were having some sort of debate. They laughed, and Monoma raised an eyebrow, prompting him to talk more. They got into a mini, halfhearted argument themselves as the rest of the class cheered Shinsou on. Some were addressing Shinsou directly at that point, so naturally Shinsou responded.
Cue Monoma's signature hysterical laugh in between the really good spicy commentary.
It only became uncomfortable when someone suggested Shinsou could use his quirk to when the argument, hypothetically. Shinsou didn't even know who commented this, he wasn't paying attention, and deep down he at least knew they didn't mean any harm. But it was too close to home when all those previous years Shinsou had been hearing the same shit about villainous nature. Monoma waved off the kid's comment. "He could win the argument easily, regardless," he tried to defend.
"Says the most argumentative," Yanagi muttered.
"Hey!" And so began another mini argument. Shinsou decided to shake it off, to continue the conversation, but he fell quieter than before. His mind actually went quite blank-- dissociative-- and Shinsou soon didn't follow any of the conversation.
Monoma abruptly cut it off after a few minutes, though. "Shinsou and I are going to study a little more. Unless you wanna stay?"
"A break would be nice." He tried his best to look somewhat happy or satisfied for everyone's sake. "Thanks for the hangout, guys."
"Of course!" many said in unison.
When they stepped out into the hallway, Monoma pulled Shinsou aside. "Sorry if that made you feel bad."
"I'm used to it. Besides, I still consider this all progress. I mean, I have a family in the making and a friend now, right?"
Monoma grinned.
They frequently found themselves to be each other's support. They were quick to defend each other and often trained together, too, and this time it was Shinsou helping Monoma. The blond may be a smart tutor but the dude was a scrawny toothpick still struggling with combat. Not that he didn't have quick reflexes-- that was, in some ways, his strength-- but his battle sense was still off.
"Vlad King certainly helped me become more aware and think of fighting strategies," he said, "but I simply am not improving physically quick enough to be on everyone's level." Monoma sounded genuinely regretful, frustrated.
Shinsou said: "I was the same way, you know."
"In less time than we actually had a full school year you became-- that." Monoma gestured vaguely to Shinsou, the entirety of his form.
"I've seen you throw things at opponents. I've seen you pull opponents off guard. And you still have to appreciate your increasing speed. Look, it's not flashy and not ideal a lot of the time, but you really do try." Shinsou winced. "Okay, that's also not the best pep talk-- The point is you have so much potential. Think about what'd be like if you start perfecting ninja-like flips and shit. You'd be such a badass, and I know you're a perfectionist."
Monoma pursed his lips. "Perhaps." He wrung his hands before picking up a water bottle and chugging. "At this point, I'm thinking it is only natural for me to be somewhat weak as it is for me to be a background character in this heroic narrative. But..." He forced a smile this time. "We can work with that."
Shinsou nodded. "Let's keep practicing anyway. Any time we can. Together."
That was all the strength they truly needed for now.
It was such a rare, odd thing to see Monoma not smiling or smirking as it was to see him not calculating his options. What was weird was those blank looks when he seemed especially upset or discouraged, at a disadvantage. The way his shoulders sometimes slumped, making him seem... small. Frail. Shinsou didn't consider Monoma any of these things. It was painful to witness-- on a personal level, Shinsou could relate-- but at least they were rare.
There was one particular situation early on in which Shinsou was concerned for Monoma's well-being. It was the week following an exam that was especially hard for all students. It basically tested your stats in different categories-- speed, strength, resourcefulness, etc.-- to see if you improved your quirk usage, and if you haven't it was also designed to allow one to raise the limit of one's quirk, even by just a little. For Shinsou, this meant brainwashing multiple people (which often left him exhausted to the point of fainting), and for Monoma this meant special movements and, of course, his ability to quickly assess a situation and use the quirks he's copied to an advantage that actually works. So, basically his training was the most unpredictable-- and the hardest to master, it seemed. It was frustrating to watch; Monoma constantly got into range for attacks, but he was still too slow and the one-on-multiple dynamic Vlad set up really didn't give him much of a chance to catch his bearings. It was brutal. His classmates looked apologetic, they knew it was incredibly hard. And Monoma was at loss as to what to do. He didn't know how to perform well if something doesn't go as he planned.
His match seemed... dragged out, more so than the others. When it was finally over, Monoma was panting heavily and sweating really bad. Shinsou winced, his hero costume must've really felt like a bitch now. He handed Monoma a water bottle and mentioned his observations once the blond calmed down.
"Endurance before speed," Monoma said simply. "That's why my practice was longer."
Shinsou nodded grimly. "I've had sessions like that. The pay off is rewarding."
Monoma nodded but didn't say anything. His eyebrows furrowed as he tried to catch his breath, his hands twitching ever so often as if regretting all the missed chances of contact. Shinsou squeezed Monoma's shoulder in reassurance, although in retrospect that probably made him sorer.
And sore he was along with the classmates the following days. There was a two day rest period, in which Shinsou and Monoma didn't hang out together. They figured it was more important to recover, and plus Shinsou felt Monoma's embarrassment and irritation just by all the bitter looks that crossed his face. It was one of self-loathing, though, not envy. The irony!
Afterward, Monoma remained quiet. Less hysterical laughs, less energy when tutoring (although he did check in with everyone about individual progress) and actually when it came to poking fun at people in general. Yes, it was the physical exhaustion, of course, but there's no doubt such humiliation would cause one to be distant. To recollect themselves, to wonder how they'd handle the situation differently. Hopefully not contemplating the point of it all, the guilt that followed... Shinsou shivered. He knew that all too well, and thinking perhaps Monoma was going through a burn out so soon was awful.
Not only did he let himself down, he couldn't keep up with his classmates despite all his heroic efforts. He wanted to get better so improve himself, sure, but unlike Shinsou, he always had others in mind.
It must've been draining, and honestly kind of lonely.
Shinsou kept his distance as Monoma had done in the beginning, though he still encouraged and stood by Monoma. He kind of liked the 1B lunch table, too, except for the fact that he was becoming increasingly worried for the blond but tried hard not to let it be too obvious. However, it seemed the whole class silently felt his lack of charisma, too. Even when Monoma started lightening up again, people made sure they weren't crowding him and of course reminded Monoma to not crowd over others himself in such a state. This included Shinsou, who told the blond they wouldn't hang out because he had to go to the store. Monoma was suspicious but didn't say anything.
Shinsou had a plan. Let's just say his internet search history was full of lemon cake recipes.
*
Unfortunately, Aizawa had a dangerous curiosity when certain situations piqued his interest. Typically the middle-aged man would've ignored a teen baking in a messy manner and would've just gone to bed with no hesitation. But this was his stupid teen, his kitchen, and personally he wanted to know how Shinsou had the ingredients in the first place. Hizashi's doing? Damn him.
"So," Aizawa said with such expressionless tone, "who's forced you to bake? Someone turn your brainwashing against you?"
Highly possible, considering Monoma's quirk, Shinsou thought. Narrowing his eyes, Shinsou said: "Don't ask. I'm not in the mood."
Aizawa's smile was creepy. "Ah, but you kind of have no choice." Sighing, he threw his bags on the floor. "Did Hizashi put you up to this?"
On cue, Present Mic entered the doorway. "I like baking!" he said enthusiastically. A bit too enthusiastic, for Aizawa covered his ears and glared intensely as if really considering stealing his quirk. But of coruse, Aizawa was too tired for that and let Hizashi do the rest of the interrogating: "So, who's the special someone?"
Leave it to them when it comes to gossip, of course!
Shinsou turned away fiercely so his "parents" couldn't see his blush. "Can't a guy just bake?"
"Ah, I will be doing the questioning here, thank you very much!"
"I mean, you have to learn proper cross-questioning and such as a pro," Aizawa added, grinning mischievously. Which was weird, to say the least. "Now you get to feel the heat of one of your poor victims. Now, listen to Hizashi."
Usually Present Mic wouldn't get such forward attention, so he grinned proudly with his hands on his hips. "Last time I made a cake for Aizawa it was an apology for a horribly planned double date." When Shinsou opened his mouth to question, Present Mic shushed him: "It was Midnight's idea, not mine! Anyway, I spent a lot of time perfecting it. Once Aizawa tried too but of course he fell asleep and almost let the house catch fire!"
Aizawa rolled his eyes. "That was one time, and I was only fifteen minutes late..."
"So," Present Mic addressed Shinsou, "because you're basically Shouta but in purple, you're probably doing this as some sort of apology or perhaps pity. And I'm so immersed into the possible teen drama at U.A. to let you remain silent!"
Shinsou sighed. "Aren't I allowed to remain silent...?"
Present Mic and Aizawa simply laughed.
"Okay, you dicktwitches caught me. It is for someone. It's not an apology, or out of pity, it's a thank you." Seeing their bewildered expressions, Shinsou rushed: "But! Don't look too much into it! It's a one time thing, okay? Geez."
"Which crackhead blond is worthy of your attention?" Present Mic cried. Shinsou nearly choked. "I mean, again, you are as unconventional and uptight as young Shouta! Don't tell me... it's Kaminari!"
Shinsou broke into a harsh coughing fit as Aizawa reached up and grabbed Present Mic's collar. "Don't you EVER say something as revolting as that in my presence AGAIN or I will ACTUALLY set fire to this house!" he cried, disturbed. Shinsou could relate. It would've been fucking hilarious if it wasn't Shinsou they were questioning.
"No, no. Not a chance," he finally managed, making sure the bowl of batter hadn't fallen. Then he'd be screwed.
"Oh, thank God," Aizawa said, letting go of a very shook Present Mic and rubbing his temples. "Holy shit, that's traumatizing."
"I know the feeling. And because you're going to keep lecturing me--" Shinsou whisked nervously, oppressingly-- "the guy is blond. The rest is none of your business."
Present Mic laughed to himself, as loud and overbearing as usual, but it was Aizawa Shinsou was worried about. He was quiet now, and probably staring bullets into the back of Shinsou's skull. The teen gulped.
However, when Present Mic's laughter died down, Aizawa simply said: "Interesting. Hizashi, help Hitoshi with the cake. I'll be grading papers."
And that was the end of it. Shinsou was still on edge, though. Aizawa, a teacher from class 1A, obviously knew about Monoma's resentment-- and, ah, obsessive competitive behavior toward the higher-ranked hero class-- which could mean he disliked Monoma greatly. It was a petty reason, though. Aizawa claims to hate some of his own students but of course it was a lie, he'd die for any of them. Still, if he didn't approve of Shinsou's friendship with Monoma... things would get awkward, to say the least.
--Time skip--
"Hey," Present Mic said, "don't look so glum! Baking is supposed to be a positive experience!"
"Kinda hard to be positive when I feel like my dads are pressuring me to cave all my secrets regarding emotions I'd rather oppress as usual despite the paradoxical fact that I want to eventually express my feelings properly and--"
"Geez, it was a joke!" Present Mic finally took the cake out of the oven and gestured to the tubes of icing. "So, I have a feeling you've never done this."
"Never. I don't even eat cake on my birthday."
"Right. Well, we don't want the cake to look like shit but it's still your efforts that count... I'll demonstrate this portion, and you can try the rest. We'll use something for you to practice on first..."
Shinsou glanced at Present Mic. He was relaxed, radiating warmth. He was always patient with Shinsou, like Aizawa. Shinsou wasn't used to such treatment. His poster parents were extremely indifferent, but also busy with the others kids. They were rowdy, Shinsou wasn't, so they left Shinsou alone. He then became known as the quiet one, and to be fair the foster parents knew about his quirk so they had a reason to stay away. They looked at him strangely, and so did the other kids, and wasn't his fault that he had to use his quirk to manipulate sometimes. He wanted some attention, and he needed food that the others often stole from him. Overall it was a lousy experience, one that left him mistrusting and vague when it came to people. Most of his time was full of dissociation, so the past year was a huge wake-up call Shinsou was still getting used to-- just the basics, never mind the hero course transition!
"Thanks... Yamada."
Present Mic grinned. "Any time, Hitoshi!"
In the end, the cake didn't look as awful as Shinsou feared.
"Too bad we can't do a taste test," Present Mic commented. "Do you remember how well you did the steps?"
Shinsou snorted. "It's just baking, how hard can it be..." he said despite himself, and Present Mic laughed.
"Aw, so naive! But it looked pretty good. Still does. I like the color of choice: baby blue. How thoughtful."
Shinsou didn't want to know what that meant, so he just shrugged. "Well, I'm beyond tired, and honestly I haven't looked at my notes... Goodnight."
"Goodnight! I'll wrap up the cake and everything so it's ready for you to bestow onto your friend!"
Shinsou faked a gag and flipped the chaotic man off from behind. There was no real malice behind it, though.
*
Today's the day, Shinsou remembered as soon as he woke up, and groaned. He covered his face into the pillow, hoping his stupid heart would slow down before getting dressed and rushing to the kitchen to pack the famous lemon cake. He was delicate, making sure he didn't ruin anything. Or else his efforts toward being nice for once were at waste. The thought pissed him off more than the butterflies in his stomach.
After receiving a thumbs up from both parents-- which was so not cool-- they were on their way to U.A. Shinsou prayed he wouldn't mess up. What is he going to say, Here's a cake to make you feel better? Or was that too awkward? Either way, the moment had to be special, like the time Shinsou and Monoma stayed up watching Netflix after a particularly harsh written test, or the time they silently (and peacefully) took a brief walk in the park, or tucked Eri in together like old sappy parents, or the time Shinsou somehow made Monoma laugh so hard after making a TikTok right in front of him. Small, disgustingly sweet moments like these had to be conveyed somewhat into the gesture.
"Are you okay?" Aizawa muttered. "You look kind of irritated."
"I'll be fine. It's not like I'm asking him to marry me."
"You're sure as hell not getting married before me."
"....You and Pres aren't married?"
"Not officially. Long story. But practically, yeah."
"Glad to feel wanted!" Present Mic said from the driver's seat, sounding actually quite happy.
Shinsou scoffed. "Well, it's whatever."
Aizawa shook his head slightly but said nothing. Trying to seem indifferent, Shinsou looked out the window.
Indifference he tried to fake throughout the first few classes, as if he'd be find out beforehand and get embarrassed. Not like anyone was actually going to pay attention, but still, after years of being judged and exclusive one can't help but be paranoid.
Monoma did talk to him, as usual, and he didn't seem to suspect a thing. He was becoming more talkative, thank goodness, and still raised his hand a lot in class, but still his shoulders slumped and he seemed distracted. That, at least, gave Shinsou motivation, which then manifested into relief. He managed not to screw up talking to Monoma, so the fluttery feeling went away, replaced with a sudden determination and a calmer fondness Shinsou recognized only in Aizawa previously. The weird thing was, Aizawa had taught Shinsou social skills despite being totally withdrawn himself around most people, but he had his silent ways you don't realize until you adjust to his standoffish behavior.
However, Shinsou didn't have the patience to be slow and deliberate, not this time around. Now he just wanted to prove his damned point.
When class was over, Shinsou tapped Monoma's shoulder. Meeting his soft blue eyes, Shinsou knew it was now or never to say something or forever hold his peace. "I have a special place we should meet for lunch," he said, with a light smile. "You'll see."
Monoma grinned. "Special, you say? I'm intrigued, and honored."
"You fucking should be, it was originally my place to cool down when I become too... claustrophobic, I guess. But now I'm sharing it with you."
"Aww," Monoma said teasingly, and Shinsou yanked Monoma's sleeve.
"Shut up, Neito."
The blond just laughed and gladly followed Shinsou to the special place when it was time for lunch. It was this rather small hallway that had a dead end (rather creepy, but that was Shinsou's taste anyway), and though teachers passed and a few classrooms were in session currently it was generally lacking major activity. Shinsou opened a classroom door, the last one before the dead-end wall, and told Monoma to follow.
"Um, is this allowed?" Monoma said with a chuckle, but he didn't hesitate to walk in. The classroom was actually really homely, with the light shining through and houseplants in every corner.
"Let's just say Aizawa knows a guy."
"Ha! Of course, I expect nothing less of your sneaky ways with teachers."
"Ew, why would you phrase it like that." Monoma laughed again.
Shinsou took a seat nearest to the window, and Monoma sat across from him. "This place is cute," Monoma said, fiddling with his own hands and looking at the ceilings decorated with pictures. "Almost like grade school."
"Yeah. Except I prefer this over grade school."
"I know what you mean. No people."
There was silence. Shinsou cleared his throat before it became too heavy. "There's more to the surprise, actually."
"Oh?"
Shinsou finally dug into his backpack and pulled out the cake layered in plastic wrapping. "Close your eyes."
Monoma still had his free will. But he did close his eyes.
Sitting the cake in front of the blond. Shinsou took a deep breath and said, "Open."
"I'm curious! I feel like a kid." Monoma opened his eyes and glanced at the cake, now unwrapped and on display. The white icing looked silky, the secondary colors being yellow and blue. A B was embedded in blue cursive icing, a reference, of course, to their shared class. Monoma gasped with such a delighted expression that Shinsou couldn't help but to grin back.
"Hitoshi, did you make this!?" Monoma covered his mouth in surprise.
"Yeah, just for you, nerd."
"Is this... lemon cake?" Monoma met Shinsou's eyes, all soft and happy and ugh.
"Maybe try it and find out for yourself, stupid." Shinsou tried to scoff (typical of him nowadays) but it ended up being a breathless sigh as Monoma grabbed the fork that was sitting by the plate enthusiastically. With care, Monoma took the first blight and his eyes fluttered with bliss. Shinsou's heart seemed to stop. He didn't even have time for self-loathing thoughts as Monoma smiled at him and, reaching for Shinsou's hand, said: "It's amazing, Hitoshi."
That's it. Shinsou's heart was melted. Fuck.
Shinsou hoped his blush wasn't too obvious and said, "Yeah, yeah, anything for you." It sounded genuine, though, because Monoma's cheeks turned pink too and oh no Shinsou is beyond weak for this crackhead. As soon as the vulnerable look came, Monoma said: "Are you sure it isn't store-bought?"
"I will strangle you right here, right now in this dead-end classroom."
Monoma's startling laugh echoed in the empty room, but it didn't bother Shinsou one bit. "I know you're honest. Seriously, thank you! I'm going to enjoy this. But..." Monoma had a spoonful of the lemon cake and shoved it toward Shinsou. "You should have a few bites too, you know, we share this class and this is our special place now. Besides, it's like a toast to friendship!"
"U-ugh, gross," Shinsou teased, but he grabbed the spoon and ate it anyway. "Oh. It really is good."
"I wouldn't lie to you so easily!" Monoma raised his arms in defense. He still grinned, though.
Shinsou chuckled, and Monoma took three more bites before offering more to Shinsou. This continued, with a few more jokes and compliments here and there, before there was one more bite left.
"You have the last of it, okay?" Monoma said.
Shinsou wasn't going to argue. "Sure. But this was supposed to be all for you."
"It'd make me very happy."
"That was the goal, stupid." Shinsou took the last bite and threw away the plate.
"So," Monoma said when Shinsou sat back down across from him, "you did because I've been down lately."
"Well, I also care about you in general, it's just hard for me, you know... I thought it would be sweet to make the cake, I usually don't do stuff like that but it's the closest to sentimental I could've done without feeling too stupid."
"Not stupid at all," Monoma said. "It was really kind of you, and I enjoyed it. You did amazing. Thank you, Hitoshi. I'm glad we're in this together."
Shinsou bit the inside of his cheek. "Same here. Say, now that we both know how to bake now-- more or less-- do you want to come over sometime and maybe give me pointers?"
"I don't think you need it." Monoma smirked. "But absolutely, my dear."
"Ugh."
"Is that all you have to say to me now? How rude!"
Shinsou squeezed Monoma's hand. "Thanks to you, too."
Both of Monoma's hands wrapped around Shinsou's, almost hungrily. "Sure thing."
*
*
Later Shinsou would learn about Monoma's grade school days, the times in which Monoma felt insecure about his quirk (including his worry about not having one at all), and the words of everyone circling in his head that he couldn't be a true hero.
"You should stick with what you're natural at." And what was that? An affluent kid who becomes ignorant, never really making a mark on this world?
All the kids teasing, Monoma's lack of interest in friends. It wasn't as oppressive as Shinsou's experience (Monoma learned this, and listened to every word), but it was enough to surround the young kid with doubts.
After all, it takes one wrong day to make a villain. Was this true? Were they right about us?
The two couldn't tell right away, but thus far they definitely proved the world wrong. Even if they had to be sneaky about it.
(On a lighter note, Shinsou learned how great small kisses could be on the forehead, and even how sweet lips could taste, too. He wouldn't admit it openly to anyone else, however. But this works out. They were partners now, after all. They were in this together.)