Archive of Our Own

Summary: Natsuo makes the bold move to introduce his girlfriend to his family.

Family Dinner

This was either the best decision of his life or going to be a total trash fire. 

Natsuo Todoroki stood outside of the double doors of his familial home bundled up in his classic Leatherman jacket and jeans, his white sneakers squeaking against the concrete. 

A soft feminine hand rested on his arm, "Natty, it's going to be fine. It's a family dinner and then we'll go back and talk."

Imani Jackson gave him a dazzling smile. Even without the heels, she stood nose-to-nose with him, “Besides, didn't you just spend our first twenty minutes standing outside of your home reassuring me? Telling me not to be nervous?”

Did he have a thing for tall women or did tall women have a thing for him? He shook his head and reigned in his wandering thoughts. "I just…" Want to prove you're not some made up creature? That I'm not ashamed we're dating? Scared all my baggage will run you off? 

Natsuo exhaled, "I want them to love you as much as I do."

"It's going to be fine." Imani reassured him, digging her hands back into the pockets of her leather jacket. Natsuo had to respectfully take in her black slacks and bright red stiletto heels.

He gulped. Respectfully, he wanted to be back in his apartment with those same long legs tangled around him if he could just convince her to spend the night…"I just want–normal. And for them to treat you normal."

"Nat, as long as no one touches my hair, we're good." She laughed, her skin tone reminding him of a mahogany wooden table. "I got enough of that at home in America."

Natsuo looked at her hair pulled back into what she called a natural hairstyle. Her textured hair had been pulled into a high ponytail with little curls escaping here and there.  

He sighed. For someone who had no quirks, Imani had been a spectacle since her arrival to his college as an international transfer student who spent her free time teaching English. A Black American with hair that was unusual to most Japanese people, but something dreamy to him.

"I'll ice them if they do." He growled softly.

"Oh stop." Her laughter was a bell to his ears. "I've had better experiences here in Japan this year alone than I've had all my life back home. And that's even with the weird stuff."

The doors opened to reveal an unknown housekeeper whom he guessed was newly hired. The last housekeeper for their home had hurt her back and Fuyumi had taken over the household at age twelve. "Master Todoroki! Everyone is here. Master Enji is running behind due to a last-minute commitment."

Oh course.

Natsuo wasn’t sure he was happy his father wasn’t home yet or disappointed that yet again his father was absent for something important to his middle child son.

Wordless, he helped Imani inside to remove their shoes and change into house slippers. He liked that she didn’t come off as a bumbling foreigner, but a woman learning to appreciate the society she was studying abroad in. He took in her hooped earrings kissing her earlobes and the simple cat charm he gave her as a “thinking of you during your tough Japanese exam” gift. Her full lips had a touch of red lipstick that matched her heels as her dark brown eyes sparkled in the light. 

Todoroki, you are gone. You are so in love.

“You are real.” A familiar voice interrupted his musings. Fuyumi explained as she entered the living room. "I was about to tell Himari to check to make sure she's not a figment of our imaginations."

Natsuo rolled his eyes as he shed his jacket and helped her hang up her leather jacket. Her shirt was a tight black one with the words MELANATED QUEEN written across it.

("Sorry no one will get it, " she smiled. "And maybe that is a good thing to only be looked at as weird for being a foreigner.")

Maybe he should have been happy that it was culturally not acceptable to show a lot of skin. Imani admitted that tank tops and shorts were her usual go-tos since she was from the American South with the "hell heat" itself as she described the perpetual warmth of the climate.  

More skin would have sent him in a complete tizzy. Currently, he was in a partial tizzy.

Imani bowed then extended her hand, "I hope to be real as well. I'm Imani."

"Ooh, what a pretty name!" Fuyumi clasped her hands together after shaking Imani's hand. "I'm Fuyumi, Natsuo's best sister." His sister had a relaxed look this weekend–jeans, girly tee, her trademark glasses and…a gold chain on her neck? Hmm, he’ll have to see what jewelry she wore later. 

"You're my only sister." He shook his head at Fuyumi as he stood behind Imani and folded his arms.

"Exactly!" Fuyumi beamed.

As much as he hated the teasing, Natsuo craved normalcy after the chaos of last year with the Nomu, family secrets being exposed and Dabi-Toya–attacking the family. 

And his run in with a woman just looking to find a good ramen spot recommendation in the "land of good ramen" marked a refreshing change during that chaotic time. 

"Your sister is too cute." Imani turned to smile at him.

A new voice cut into the living room, "...Fuyumi is also a good cook."

His baby brother came into the living room space wearing a blue shirt and black jeans, his two-tone hair messy in front of his heterochromic eyes.

"Hey Shoto," Natsuo smiled, "Thought you had a hero training thing this weekend?"

"Nope, it got pushed back due to the robots going sentinel. We have the weekend off."

Imani gave him a look. Sentinel robots? 

Natsuo gave her a tiny grin. I'll explain later.

Shoto came over to Imani and gave her a quick bow then extended his hand. "I'm Shoto, Natsuo's younger brother." 

"Imani." She bowed and returned the shake. "Our schedules usually conflict and I haven't had the pleasure to meet all of you. I figured you should see me before I steal Natsuo all weekend."

Out of the corner of his eyes, he saw a second peak of white hair. "Mom?"

Rei Todoroki stepped into the living room in her usual blue sweater and white tights. "I too am grateful to meet you finally, Imani."

Imani hurried over to his mother and bowed deeply, "Mrs. Todoroki, I am honored."

"Don't be so formal, please call me Rei." His mother stepped to his girlfriend. "May I hug you? I hope to be respectful of your culture also."

Imani engulfed his mom in a big hug. "Thank you so much!"

The three siblings held their collective breaths. Affection was something they were all learning again and he wasn't sure how well adjusted Mom was. 

Imani stopped, her arms frozen around his mom, a look of horror on her beautiful face. "Did-did I do something wrong?"

"No, of course not!" Rei stepped out of the hug to hold Imani's hands. "In fact, I needed that. Thank you."

The room relaxed and small talk followed as they walked toward the table. Natsuo's steps fell in line with Imani's. He longed to steal another kiss, but understood how nervous it was to meet the family of your significant other.

Once they reached the dining room, he saw a younger woman in a red kimono-style dress wearing a high black ponytail setting the table. "Fuyumi, do you need help with anything else–" She turned and paused then bowed formally. "Oh? Hello everyone. I hope I set the table in enough time." 

He caught a small smile sliding on Shoto's face. "No problem, Momo, we were introducing ourselves to Imani."

Wait a minute… Natsuo looked between his baby brother and the brunette, feeling some pull between them. He recognized her from the hospital. And she shared the same secret puppy love eyes with Shoto.

Natsuo fought with a growing smile on his face.

Did Shoto have a girlfriend?

Before he could even get a teasing word out, the sound of heavy footsteps interrupted them…"Please tell me I did not miss your cooking, Yumi."

The former number two pro hero decked out in casual black clothing, Hawks, stepped into the room and made a beeline for his sister. 

"No, Keigo, you didn't." Fuyumi closed the gap between them and smiled, her hands clasped together. 

"Good," That same former number two pro hero grabbed her waist and laid a kiss on his sister so passionately that it made everyone clutch their metaphorical pearls. 

Even he caught the sultry meaning behind Hawks' newest statement as Hawks spoke to Fuyumi between their kisses, "Because I'm cheating by having dessert first."

Natsuo cleared his throat with lots of volume. The other ladies only looked flushed. Shoto did not have a reaction to such a public display. 

Once Keigo–Hawks–seemed to remember that he and the woman he made out with weren't alone, he relinquished a flushed Fuyumi and looked around. "Oh hey everybody! I couldn't miss tonight. I know Yumi went all out."

Everyone exchanged looks. No one seemed ready to address Hawks kissing his older sister other than him.

Feeling his irritation boil, Natsuo felt a soft hand on his forearm.

Imani had slid up to him and gave him a smile, but her eyes pleaded with him. 

Natsuo, she's okay. She's a big girl.

He exhaled. Somehow, Imani had a calming touch. He couldn't believe this brilliant lady was without a quirk. Because her touch rendered him useless. Their previous conversations surrounding his family came to his mind, her being the patient ear for his frustrations and concerns. 

Fuyumi didn't need another hero hurting her.

Dad had done enough. 

He closed his eyes for a moment.

Hawks was a good guy, however. A steady presence during a shifting sand type of year for the Todoroki family over all.

But, still…a kiss? That type of kiss? 

Imani hooked her arm into his, "I did not realize I would meet pro heroes so quickly in Japan. They aren't as accessible in America."

"Shame, I think the heroes here are so much more welcoming." Hawks was his smooth self in an instant. 

Welcoming? Is that what you called tonguing my sister? Welcoming?

"Everyone hungry?" Fuyumi managed to break out of Hawk's hold and motioned to the table. 

Natsuo decided to address the other hungers around him another time, Imani's touch mellowing him out.

Once the shock of…that…passed, everyone took a seat on a cushion and watched Himari and Fuyumi load the table with platters of traditional Japanese fare.

They fell into eating another well executed meal by Fuyumi and small conversations popped up around the table.

He and Imani sat opposite of Momo Yaoyorozu (the name came to him later) and Shoto, the two high schoolers seemingly behaving and yet…Natsuo looked to the end of the table to find Mom holding chit chat with Hawks as he sat across from Fuyumi. Fuyumi seemed to have chastened herself by sitting next to him as her brother. 

Natsuo did not trust that Hawks would behave if Fuyumi sat next to him.

A small nudge into his side got his attention. 

Right.

He needed to behave too. Glimpses of Imani's neckline and the charm necklace trailing down to her…Natsuo bit his chopstick hard.

The pot calls the kettle black, huh? 

"You okay?" Imani mouthed.

Natsuo smiled and mouthed back. "Better." With you for sure. He dropped his voice, "Still don't want to walk into a make-out session."

"Now, now, we aren't all that innocent." Imani grabbed a dumpling with better control of her chopsticks. She openly admitted she still struggled with it, but was too determined to give up. "They could have walked out on us before we knocked on the door."

Natsuo's face flushed slightly. Ok, fine, he was a total hypocrite. He had Imani pulled against him minutes before he found the balls to knock on the door, sneaking in his own dessert of a deep kiss and wandering caresses earlier. 

"Wanna share your thoughts with the class, Natsuo?" Fuyumi called from her side of the table. He heard the teasing in her words.

He made a face at her. "Just thinking about dessert."

Fuyumi gave him a look that was a mix between daggers and embarrassment. 

"Are we having mochi for dessert?" Shoto asked, his greeness a welcomed change to the conversation. 

"Actually, I experimented with something Imani may be more familiar with." Fuyumi rung her hands. "I hope I did a good job reminding you of home in a good way…not that I would assume I know your background…"

"It's fine." Imani answered, "If you can burn like this, I know dessert is excellent."

"Burn?" Shoto gave Imani a confused look.

"Sorry," Imani laughed. "I'm lapsing into slang. Something I am trying to not teach my language students." Imani placed her bowl of food down. "If Fuyumi is this great of a cook, then whatever dessert from my home inspired her must be equally as good."

"Great! I hope my red velvet cupcakes meet your approval." His sister looked relived. 

"Red velvet? Ooh, Natty must have told you about me missing soul food." Imani squealed. 

"Natty?" His mother looked at him, blinking. 

"Natty–sorry, I mean Natsuo." Imani laughed nervously.

Rei gave her a gentle smile. "Do you want to talk about home?"

Natsuo smiled at his mom. So Mom was giving Imani an out and not embarrassing her.

"I'm not clamoring to go back to the good ole boys anytime soon, but I do miss the cooking." Imani beamed at him. "Hopefully, Natsuo can come with me if I go back for a visit next year."

"A visit?" Fuyumi made a face. “You two already have big plans.” 

"Sounds like a nice trip you have planned." Hawks raised a glass to him.

Natsuo suppressed a groan between bites. It was just talk between streaming movies and takeout. Eventually, she wanted to go to New Orleans between visiting her home in Florida–and have him come along. 

Little pricks of doubt needled him. If we get that far. 

Natsuo found himself longing to get that far with her. Hope was a strange feeling to have. 

“Have you been to Charleston or even Savannah, Imani?” Momo made her way into the conversation, largely silent since the start of dinner. 

“Got some family in both places, but I haven’t spent a ton of time in either.” Imani turned toward Momo. “You sound familiar with my neck of the woods.”

Momo launched into a story about her parents having business with an American hero agency and all the wonderful food they told her about. "Whenever I decide to travel, I can go to America as a graduation gift from UA."

Natsuo took this moment to study his little bro. Shoto’s face didn’t tell the story–his eyes did. Both colors were lively as if in admiration for the girl next to him, dimming only when she mentioned going away. 

When did he miss this budding romance? If they would call it a romance, Natsuo wondered, as the two seemed to be in tune with each other and yet trying too hard not to look like they were into each other.

Fuyumi would need to “give him the tea” as Imani called gossip on that dynamic. 

“Is everyone ready to try something sweet?” Rei asked the table once the conversation left travel and got into popular television shows. 

Affirmations rose from the table.

“Yes, I’m so happy to finally be able to eat after being sick the last two weeks.”

Natsuo rubbed her back in comforting circles.

The last two weeks were rough on Imani as she canceled time with her English language students and skipped her university classes. He figured any more excuses on not meeting the family from either one of them couldn’t be justified. They mutually agreed to the trial by fire before another distraction, hero-related or not, came along.  

Fuyumi looked at both him and Shoto, “Why don’t I get my very helpful brothers to take all the dirty dishes and we’ll bring tea and dessert back to the table?”

Natsuo caught Shoto’s frown from across the table.

Both of the brothers knew what that thinly veiled excuse meant. If any of the ladies let on that they did, neither Momo or Imani showed it. 

“Guess we’re earning our supper.” Natsuo teased Imani with a charmed smile.

“You two aren’t earning anything, you both live here.” Fuyumi stood to her feet. “Keigo can relax with Mom and our lovely guests.”

Keigo folded his arms behind his head, grinning.  

“Lived, Fuyumi.” Shoto corrected, “Natsuo and I moved out.”

Fuyumi snorted, “Still have rooms here and sleep in them occasionally.” 

The three siblings lapsed into a funny argument as they cleared the table and disappeared into the kitchen. After depositing the dishes into the sink with Shoto’s help, both brothers stood still awaiting her interrogation.

“Hey Natty, come grab the tea tray for me please.” Fuyumi ordered with a big grin as she reached for a tray of red cupcakes with white frosting. 

“Really, Yumi?” Natsuo folded his arms, “Wanna explain why Hawks is swapping spit with you?”  

Shoto grabbed the tea tray instead for their sister. “He's right, Fuyumi. I must admit that it was a shock.”

Natsuo motioned to Shoto, “See? Little brother agrees.” 

“The same little brother making goo-goo eyes at just his 'just a friend?” She placed one hand on her hip as she balanced the tray of sweets.

Shoto’s face was as red as the cups on the tea tray. “I should take this out.”

Natsuo decided to make himself useful and grab a pitcher of cold water in case anyone needed it, “Yeah, little brother, you did look really interested in everything Momo said.”  

Shoto shot him a rare pissed look before heading back to the table.

"Whoa," Natsuo whistled. "I think I better stay on his right side. Literally." 

Fuyumi narrowed her eyes at him, "He's sensitive about her so watch it." 

Natsuo followed Fuyumi to the table where Hawks, Imani and Momo chatted up music as their mom just basked in the conversation. 

As the Todoroki siblings set up the table, Natsuo was sure to slide up to his little brother and whisper. "Sorry Shoto, I was only pulling your leg. I didn't mean to hurt your feelings."

Shoto nodded and whispered back. "It's okay. I should remember you're just teasing me. Brothers do that."

Natsuo gave him an amiable slap on the shoulder then made his way next to Imani to sit by her as everyone else took their seats again. "Sorry I left you to the wolves, Imani."

Imani pulled herself from the conversation with Hawks and Momo and smiled at him, "These wolves agree with me that Usher should do a Halftime show in American football and I totally need to go to a futbol game here."

As Fuyumi passed out pretty saucers with the treat, the air filled with praise at her baking. 

"These are delicious," Momo placed a hand to her mouth as it had gotten covered in frosting, "I'm ashamed I'm not being a lady at the dinner table."

Natsuo glanced at Shoto who should have been ashamed at how openly he was staring at his "friend."

"Wow, my granny would love you, Fuyumi. You did good." Imani took another bite out of her cupcake. 

Fuyumi lit up under the praise. "I am so happy to hear that! When Natsuo mentioned where you were from and the types of foods you missed, I figured I would try something small."

"Told you it would work," Hawks winked at Fuyumi then took a bite of his treat. 

"Now if you can throw down on some banana pudding, I may question if you from my hometown." Imani giggled as she tried to be polite while chewing her food.

Natsuo got distracted by the fact she licked the frosting off her top lip, his own cupcake forgotten. 

OK, fine, little bro, we're both gone.

A deep male voice interrupted the group, "What's this talk about hometowns?" 

Natsuo swallowed hard.

His father loomed in the doorway.

His mother was the first to recover and speak, her face melted into a softer expression. "Enji, please join us."

Out of his hero costume, his father sported a somber black suit. It would be weird either way to see him in anything, be it formal or tank top and sweats. "I sent Himari home for the rest of the night." A beat followed, "With pay."

Fuyumi gave their dad a satisfied smile.

Shoto kept up his conversation with Momo, but he noticed the tension in his muscles.

Natsuo felt his blood pressure slowly rise.

Everyone had been relaxed and open. The minute his dad came in, the room shifted.

Like earlier, Imani placed her hand on his forearm, sensing his need for calm.

Natsuo ripped his eyes from his father to look at her gentle gaze. 

Natsuo, you can do this. I'll be next to you.

His father stepped inside and got on the  cushion at the head of the table. "I apologize for missing out on most of the family dinner. Last minute villains and conference call."

"Dad, do you want anything?" Fuyumi started to move when their father held up a hand.

"Not now, Fuyumi, take your seat."

His sister resumed sitting down, looking unsure of her next move. 

Imani squeezed his arm then stood up and gave a formal bow to the head of the table. "Mr. Todoroki, I am pleased to make your acquaintance."

His father fastened his cold blue eyes on Imani. "So you're the girl keeping Natsuo away."

Natsuo felt a reply jump out his mouth, but Imani's gentle fingertips on his shoulder moved quicker. "I am–though I would argue it's our mutual schedules. Someone studying to be a medical worker and someone studying to be an IT consultant won't cross over much."

"You're different." Enji folded his hands together as he took a seat.

Natsuo flexed his fingers. If their father made one peep about Imani's hair or her skin color…

"How so?" Imani's grip on his shoulder tightened.

"No quirk." His father held his stare, "I hardly come into contact with people working for agencies without them. Not even support staffers." 

That didn't sound like a question. 

"Yes sir, I'm just a regular human. My family works with hero agencies in America. I'm getting my degree in IT management."

"Interesting for someone with two American military parents."

"I don't fancy myself a nurse or a soldier." Imani lowered herself to the cushion. 

His siblings shared looks. Why did it sound like the old man had already met her…

"Why did you do a background check on Imani?" Natsuo wasn't going to let it go unaddressed. His father must have done some digging beforehand.

"I started checking everyone associated with you all," His father answered with nonchalance. "Besides, her company has a hand in our IT department. Even more reason."

Natsuo gave his girlfriend a look, "You already knew my father?"

Imani shook her head, "Not directly. I'm studying to take over as a lead IT head for a software company that aids pro heroes. My company's software is in many agencies, including Endeavor's. Just have to get the paper to prove my skills." 

"And you haven't been in trouble in either country," The old man made a funny face,  "Impressive."

Imani gave his father a look with narrowed eyes. "Mr. Todoroki, I would appreciate it if you don't review my background checks without my knowledge, especially since we have only met face-to-face today."

A small grin came to Natsuo. Was his girl being sassy with the number one hero? He loved it 

"Again, I have valid reasons for doing so since you indirectly work for me…as well as your closeness to Natsuo now."

"Sir, I understand that you have valid reasons due to many events that occurred to hero society and even your own family–"

Natsuo held his breath. He had been open with Imani about their family demons and most of the chaos of the previous year, including his own run in with the villain obsessed with Endeavor.

Imani continued as she took her seat, "But, please understand if I had an agenda, you would have already known it. Since you checked my background, you already know where both my parents are stationed and about my second job teaching English as well as my studies here. I know you have the connections."

The table went silent. Was the shock that his dad would invade the privacy of a person he only knew by passive conversations or that the same person barked back at him?

"Impressive grades by the way." His father signaled for the pitcher of water and a clean glass. Fuyumi instantly jumped up to the kitchen for a clean glass. 

"Sir, I don't do what I do to impress. I have to work twice as hard to get half of the results my peers get. I won't burden the table with the negative aspects of home, just know I am happy to do IT and be with Natsuo."

Natsuo looked at Imani, his heart swelling. She was happy?

Fuyumi thankfully returned and tried to change topics, "Dad, would you like to try one of the cupcakes? I got the idea from the southern desserts Imani is familiar with from her home."

"I would actually. It appears everyone here has taken a taste of something sweet already." The old man had a grin on his face, "Guess you all couldn't wait."

Natsuo wanted to jump across the table and punch him. His father wasn't talking about the dessert, he was talking about Imani. 

The same person squeezed his forearm gently, apparently she never let go of him. "Everyone appears to be satisfied too."

Natsuo heard the low whistle from Hawks' end of the table. 

Did Imani pick up on that too? Was she firing back?

Imani finally released his arm and took another cupcake from the tray and poured more tea for herself. 

Natsuo saw Momo lean over to Shoto whispering something. Their mom exhaled as if maintaining her composure. Hawks just took another cupcake and inhaled it.

"Is there anything else you want to know, sir?" Imani asked after taking a delicate bite of her treat. "I'm used to being the odd girl out and I am willing to reassure you my interests are only graduation and seeing Natsuo smile."

His father snorted, "For now, no. But, I am glad we got a chance to talk. Your name stood out to me and I put two and two together–" He looked at Hawks and Fuyumi now sitting across from each other again. "Just like I'm noticing why my former associate played hooky from the office today. We had to cancel that meeting."

Hawks grinned and sipped his drink, "Fuyumi invited me. I couldn't resist."

"Did she now?" His father gave his sister a surprised look.

"Dad," Fuyumi's tone became guarded. "You know Keigo has been spending more time around here, especially since he retired as a hero and does consulting work for the other pros, including the Endeavor Agency."

"Keigo? Are you using your real name now?" The old man pinned Hawks with a stare.

Hawks didn't back down, appearing quite smug. "I use it when it's important."

"When did you two get so friendly?" The old man asked them.

"When I asked him to our dinner last week. Keigo has been coming around here for months, Dad." Fuyumi tapped her finger against her empty tea cup. "We can discuss all this later. I want to get to know Imani more since I am sure she and Natsuo have other plans this weekend."

"Plans?" His father looked at him.

Natsuo finally found his voice. "I wanted everyone to meet Imani since we were finally able to have a Friday night off together. Shoto spending the weekend here was a bonus."

"Oh?" His father finally acknowledged his youngest brother. "And his classmate?"

"I invited Momo and she's been a great guest." Shoto's normally stoic tone had some edge to it. "She even went out of her way to help Fuyumi with prep."

Even Natsuo felt a chill. Oh, Shoto was serious about this girl.

Momo only smiled, unaffected it seemed by the atmosphere growing tense. "Fuyumi is such a gracious hostess and I couldn’t turn the invite down. Her cooking is so divine."

"Thank you, Momo!" Fuyumi's joy was evident. "I enjoyed doing this dinner and spending time with each of you."

"I'm surprised Midoriya and Bakugou weren't invited." His father pressed. "They've been here before."

"They had previous plans." Shoto supplied, then sipped his drink, "Plus, even I need breaks from my best friends."

Momo addressed the pro hero, "Shoto was kind enough to invite me over to your family dinner. My parents had an emergency work trip to a hero agency in Europe needing their legal counsel. I wasn't in the mood to be in our mansion with our staff only, so I gave them the weekend off and I'm staying somewhere else instead."

His father's eyebrows raised. "And you are staying exactly where this weekend, Momo?"

Shoto cut in, "With our other classmates. The ladies of 2A planned a weekend sleepover. I'm staying here this weekend, though I may be busy during the day." 

His father took a bite out of the cupcake in reply.

Natsuo raised his eyebrows. Shoto may not be openly fist fighting, but he looked ready.

Mom cut in, "Enji, since you tried the cupcake, tell Fuyumi what you think."

His father wiped his mouth with a napkin then spoke. "A bit too sweet for me, but if this is what you all like–"

Imani stood up, her tone shaky, "Excuse me, is there somewhere I can freshen up?"

Momo rose too. "I'm afraid I must do the same."

Fuyumi stood up next. "Let me show both of you one of the guest bathrooms."

Hawks got up and leaned over to Fuyumi, his hand on her shoulder. "I can show them. You rest, Yumi."

Fuyumi's expression wavered between gratitude and nervousness. Hawk did not hide his tenderness. "Keigo, I can't–"

"I got this." Hawk's reply was firm. He walked over to the other ladies. "Follow me please, then I will show you the location of the koi pond. You gotta get them to show you the pond during daylight hours…"

Once the room was filled with the Todoroki clan alone, Natsuo swallowed all his politeness. "Dad, what the hell was that?"

The old man huffed. "I didn't lie. I am checking out the backgrounds of any one associated with you all given what we have been through–"

"Does that include asking about our sex lives?" Shoto asked in a flat voice.

A stiff silence fell on the dining room. 

Natsuo and Fuyumi traded shocked looks. Did Shoto just say that?

"Now that it's come up–" The old man turned to Shoto.

"No." Shoto spat out, "And don't imply I'm trying to take advantage of Momo ever in any way again. If you’re so curious to know if I’m sexually active, then ask me outright."

Forget the ice side of Shoto, his voice did it all for him. No one moved or spoke. 

Even the old man froze for a moment before speaking again, "Shoto, that's not what I'm–" 

"Look, Dad. I don't get all the social cues, but making Imani sound like a villain and asking Momo where she planned on spending the night was uncalled for."

Pride rose in Natsuo. He owed his little bro one for including Imani in his defense.

"I apologize if my words came out that way," The old man sounded chastened. 

"You can show our guests some kindness, they've been more behaved than you." Natsuo finally cut in, deciding to recuse Shoto from being on the defensive. “I’ll accept that apology.” 

"And Hawks?" The old man challenged, "He seems to be very close to your sister."

As hard as he had to swallow his words, Natsuo owed Fuyumi her privacy as well. "Get over it, old man. We have lives outside of you." 

"Natsuo," His mother cautioned, playing peacekeeper instead of Fuyumi, “Please.” 

Fuyumi looked down at the table with a flushed face, “Natsuo, it’s fine–” 

“It’s not fine, Fuyumi.” Natsuo slammed his fist on the table, shaking all the dishes. "Mom, Shoto is right. Dad would've been better off asking them outright instead of implying it. It was rude.” He locked eyes with the old man, “I can only speak for myself. " He loosened his tongue to continue, " I decided not to bring Imani around since we started dating seven months ago for this exact reason–and it’s you."

"Me?" The pro hero sounded dumb founded.

"You proved me right, Dad, by being invasive. I mean, reviewing her background check? Looking into her parents? And don't get me started at what else you've implied about her."

"Son, I've been open about my concerns. The safety of each one of you is my worry. In all areas." His father sounded exhausted. 

Natsuo didn’t back down, "She was literally shaking before we came inside from nervousness. Imani wants to impress my family so badly. I have never been so adamant about keeping her away from meeting the family until tonight.” He felt ready to grab their jackets and go, but he had one more piece of his mind to give the pro hero. “Someone in this damn world likes me for being Natsuo, not Endeavor's failed experiment middle child."

“Natsuo, please–” Fuyumi begged before his mother could. His mother’s pained expression did cut him deep. The resolve to defend his girlfriend went deeper however. 

“No, Fuyumi,” He gave his sister a softer look, “You and Mom have jumped on enough fires before for me and Shoto. Everyone in this room, with the exception of Mom, owes you an apology too. Clearly you and Hawks–Keigo, are a thing and we have no right to judge it.”

Fuyumi blinked and squeezed her hands as they rested in her lap, “We aren’t just a thing.” With a shaky hand, Fuyumi reached for the gold necklace hidden in her shirt and pulled it out to reveal a shiny gold ring with a sizable diamond. “Keigo asked me to marry him three days ago.”

If the room was silent before, it surely had the quiet of a grave currently.

Mom placed a hand to her chest, “Oh, Fuyumi, I didn’t want to intrude and ask.”

“Mom, you wouldn’t have. I knew you would have guessed before anyone else.” Fuyumi wiped a few tears away from her eyes, “Look everybody, I didn’t want to make our relationship a big deal, even if Keigo pushed for us to go public with it. I asked him to keep things quiet since we got closer over the last few years.”  

“So my counterpart decides to slither up to my own daughter?” Their father growled. 

“I made this dinner to not only meet Natsuo’s girlfriend, but to tell you about our engagement.” His sister snapped, anger coloring her eyes.  

Their father looked lost. Maybe the old man expected for the boys to fight, but not for his precious baby girl to fire back.

“Dad, I’m not some virgin locked in a tower.” His sister kept the ring out then balled her hands into fists. “Keigo has been nothing but respectful of my wishes to wait. The kiss from earlier was one of the few times we have shown open affection," She closed her eyes, her voice dropping, "And I like being affectionate with him.”

Natsou looked down at the table. He too had been guilty of being an overprotective butt. Fuyumi clearly longed for something that the family couldn't supply her.

“Even if his kiss took me by surprise, it wasn’t unwanted.” Fuyumi sat up taller on her cushion, “Dad, it is no one’s business whether we do more than just share a kiss. I am an adult and so is Natsuo.” She motioned to the youngest Todoroki. “Even Shoto deserves a life outside of all this. God knows he’s been robbed of having a normal life long enough.”

“Shoto wants to become a pro hero.” Their father motioned to their stoic baby brother. 

“I’m sure Shoto wants to also enjoy bringing a guest to a family dinner without her being questioned as if she were a villain in an interrogation like you did Imani.” Natsuo countered. 

Shoto gave Natsuo something close to a “thank you” look.

Their mother spoke, her voice a mix of weepiness and anger. “Enji, they are right. We have to let them grow up.”

“Rei,” Their father fixed his eyes on her, “I am trying to be a concerned parent here. I don’t want any of them in a bad way.”

“Oh, that’s rich” Natsuo huffed, “Coming from your great example.”

His mom gave him a pleading look as their father glowered.

“I feel for Momo and Imani. Whatever their reasons for being here, we could have at least kept the family drama to a minimal.” He motioned to the end of the table, “Mom’s been nothing but welcoming and Fuyumi was a gracious hostess.” Natsuo addressed his sister, “Fuyumi, I’m sorry. You obviously are happy and we robbed you of an important moment.”

“You guys aren’t at fault,” Fuyumi gave him a smile between watery tears.

“Everything alright?” Hawks’ voice filtered into the tense room. While he glanced at the group, his eyes locked on Fuyumi.

Fuyumi stood up and rushed over to him, throwing herself in his arms. Hawks appeared to forget everyone else around them and embraced her, pulling her deeper into his chest. Quiet sniffles filled the air as Hawks buried his face into Fuyumi’s multicolored hair.

Guilt nipped at Natsuo. Hawks did care for his sister and it was as evident as Hawks’ big ego.

His father looked as if he had been slapped, his tone clipped when he finally spoke. “Were you planning on sharing this with me, Keigo? ”

Hawks looked up after hearing his first name being spoken, “Never intended on hiding it. Fuyumi didn’t want to make a fuss, so I left any decisions on how we handled things up to her.”

“Are you two really engaged?” Their mother asked, her tone swinging between what Natsuo figured was hope and trepidation.

“Yes. I asked her, Lady Todoroki, and she accepted three days ago. We wanted it to be a surprise, but I have a feeling it didn’t turn out that way.” Hawks’ serious side always made him cautious. Natsuo was so used to Hawks being proud and like a big kid, not cold-blooded.

Their mother wiped tears from her eyes. “Then, I am so happy for you both.”

“Thank you, Lady Todoroki.” Hawks smiled.

Fuyumi relinquished her hold on Hawks, “Keigo, I think it’s past time for keeping things quiet.” She gave the former pro hero a loving look, “And I was wrong to hide our relationship. I just–”

“It’s okay,” Hawks answered her with a soft kiss on the lips. “I’m glad to be open about it finally.”

Their dad bristled at the display while the rest of them only observed wordless. 

“Sorry, Endeavor, but you are going to have to get used to this.” A certain edge took hold of the younger man’s voice. “Fuyumi’s reasons are her reasons for not telling you about us, but I won’t allow her to feel ashamed about receiving affection and our time together.”

“Should I prepare myself for a shotgun wedding?”

“Dad.” Fuyumi’s face flushed.

“Enji, stop it.” Their mother stood up from the table hard enough to shake it. “We can at least salvage our evening and congratulate them.” Mom gave her children and Hawks a softer smile, “Our children are fine and they have partners who love them. Isn’t that enough?”

“But, what if she was seduced by him?” Their father whined, “What if this is about money or influence or–”

“It’s not our issue.” His mother gave their father a cold look, one that rivaled Shoto’s.

Everyone traded nervous looks. For their mother, Rei, to go Mama Bear with their father like she used to years ago when they were all children scared the Todoroki siblings at the moment.

“Fuyumi hid her involvement with a hero I worked with and Natsuo conveniently brings a girl working for our agency’s IT department to meet the family. How could I not suspect anything?”

“Because there isn’t anything to suspect.” Shoto returned a harsh reply, breaking his long silence once more. “Frankly, I understand why they hid it. I’m doing the same thing.”

Now everyone gave Shoto a shocked look. 

Fuyumi dared ask, “Shoto, what do you mean?”

Momo and Imani thankfully returned to the dining room. 

Momo, it seemed, was quicker to broach the tension with a polite question. “Are we interrupting something private? Imani and I can step out longer if you need us to.”

Shoto walked over to his classmate, pulled her closer to him by the waist and pressed a chaste kiss to her cheek, “We’re clearing up a few misunderstandings, Yaomomo.” He then fixed their father with another icy glance. “My father thinks one of us is knocked up or has knocked someone up.”

“Whoa, little brother,” Natsuo blinked, “I think this is the closest to off-color I’ve seen you.” 

Shoto ran his free hand through his hair, “Sorry, Natsuo, if that was blunt. But Dad isn’t being subtle.” 

“Neither are they any longer,” Imani slipped closer to Natsuo and slipped her arm into his again. She pressed herself closer to him and lowered her voice. “I basically figured out their puppy love when we talked alone as girls.” 

Natsuo could have died happily there. He missed her being in the room, her touch so needed. But, the shock of his little brother doing something so-so normal still remained. “I have never seen Shoto kiss, much less be interested in, a girl.” 

“It’s cute,” Imani smiled at him. “Besides, it isn’t like he threw her on the table and did something explicit.” 

“For Shoto, this is explicit.” Natsuo smirked.

Momo, for all her proper nature, appeared to be as red as her outfit. “Shoto, I–”

“You need to hear me be truthful,” Shoto held her hands, gazing into her eyes. “I feel the same way you do and I'm scared to be honest about it. Momo, I really do like you. I already know how you feel and it’s the same for me.”

“You’ve been nothing but a gentleman and a good friend.” Momo looked away, but the blush said it all. 

“I don’t want to just be your friend, Momo.” Shoto confessed. “It’s getting harder to do that.”

Momo could only blink, “Shoto…”

“You’ve been more honest than I have. Our mutual feelings are the same.”

Momo sighed. “Fuyumi knew I was coming. She basically figured out my feelings and told me to accept your invite. I am so sorry if we pretended this was a surprise,” Momo then looked up at Hawks, “I also knew about the engagement. Fuyumi really wanted it to be a big reveal. I wanted to ask Imani to help me with our little plot to reveal it, but she-she’s upset and I can’t  bear to do so.”

Natsuo instantly turned to look at her, “Imani, what’s wrong?”

“What’s wrong is we caught the tail end of your family’s conversation.” Imani confessed, staring at her heels then looking back at him with sad brown eyes. He felt her shiver, “The shotgun wedding part…but, maybe your dad isn’t wrong.” 

He tilted her face toward his, seeing unshed tears in her eyes. “It’s okay, Imani, we can go–”

Imani squeezed his arm as she spoke, “Natsuo, I’m pregnant.”

If there ever was a time Natsuo bit his tongue hard, this was it. Blood trickled into his mouth from his lip. Shock reverberated his body as the very wind left him. “Wha-what?” 

Imani started crying, but continued speaking with a wavering voice. “I’ve been pushing to meet your family this last week because I wanted to see if they would be receptive to such a blow from someone like me.” She released his arm to wipe her tears away, “I’m not trying to trap you, Natty. I–I didn’t have the flu like I thought two weeks ago, the doctor on base told me I’m six weeks in. I’ve been too scared to tell you until tonight. That’s what I’ve been so eager to talk to you about.” 

She covered her face with her hands, “This isn’t how I wanted the reveal to go and I don’t know what to do. I haven’t even told my parents, my best friend, no one but God and the base doctor knew about it.”

She gave a curt bow to their unwilling and stunned audience. “I am sorry your family dinner was ruined by such a revelation from me. Please forgive my intrusion.”   

Natsuo figured ice was his quirk, but the way he ran out the dinning room to chase his girlfriend down. She had been standing at the front doors ready to let herself out in her heels. 

“Imani, wait.” He begged.

She halted. “Natty, I can’t do this.”

He took her by the arms and carefully spun her around to face him, “I don’t care about their opinions right now, I care about you.”

Imani’s eyes only seemed to be focused on a piece of paper that dropped from her pocket.

Natsuo guided her to the couch by the door and hugged her closer to him. “Please, just–just don’t do anything rash until we talk. Even if we only talk for now.” He kept his voice soft and rubbed her back. “I’m here.”

Imani’s big brown eyes met his. Then, they squeezed shut. Burying her face into his chest, she sobbed hard, her body trembling as she cried. “I messed everything up! I can’t finish my degree with a baby ! We were so careful and it still happened.”  

“It’s going to be okay.” The words fell out of his mouth dumbly. 

“I’m basically a gold digger.” She pulled away from him, turned her head away.

“You are not a gold digger.” He insisted. 

“Everyone knows your family has money. And I’m just some military brat here on a scholarship.”

“Imani, please don’t say that.” He tilted her face toward his, "I never cared about any of our differences."

“Where is your dad wrong in all of this?” Imani placed a hand to her forehead. “We blew off studying and stress for one night months ago and now…you are the only person I’ve been with. I promise I was a virgin.”

“I–I wouldn’t question something like-like that.” He stammered out. 

“You don’t want kids.”

Natsuo grew silent. Memories of all the conversations they had about possible futures and outcomes rushed to him. He was afraid of being anybody’s father because of the scars Endeavor left on his own family.

“I–” He covered his face with one hand, loosening his hold on her. “Damn.”

“We need to talk, but–but I can’t right now. I won’t lie about the baby, but–tonight’s…tonight's been too much.” 

“Excuse me?” Both of them looked up at the new voice, separating to stand to their feet.

His father of all people stood a few feet away. “Natsuo…Imani…”

Imani stood up and stiffened, “Mr. Todoroki, the only thing I am asking for is a driver to take me back to campus.” Imani swallowed hard, “I need some time alone.”

Natsuo gave her a look of horror as he scrambled to stand, "Imani, please–”

“Natsuo, I need to think.” Her eyes begged him. “I just need some time alone. For now.”

"Dad, can we get a moment?" Natsuo chewed out, his eyes narrowed in hate.

The elder Todoroki looked between the couple then stepped out of the living room. 

Natsuo stood locked still, his hands clenched into fists. As much as his mind spun and he demanded answers, he never wanted to be forceful like his father. 

"Please tell me–"

"I'm sorry, Natty." She turned away from him, stepping back. He heard her on the verge of tears once more. 

Hanging his head, he answered her in a broken tone. “I’ll call one for you. Good night, Imani.”

Natsuo left the room and stormed down the hallway, the door to his old bedroom shaking on its hinges. 

Natsuo took bets internally on who would come talk to him first. Fuyumi or mom were most likely. His father better not dare breathe near him. The old man had effectively killed the entire evening. Hawks was the neutral option.

Lying in his old bed, he stared at the ceiling, too mentally fatigued to do anything but let his mind wander. 

Hours or minutes could have gone by, he didn’t care. The idea of not having Imani around scared him. The idea of bringing a child into this world scared him more. 

The fated knock came, “Natsuo, it’s Shoto.”

Shoto? 

Natsuo sat up. Now that was a new tactic. Maybe the group elected to send the least hostile person to him instead, “Come in.”

Shoto, now dressed in a pair of pajamas and a loose blue tank top, came into the room and closed the door softly. “Momo and Imani left in a car together. Momo told the driver you called to pick someone else up instead.”

Natsuo nodded, feeling a tad better at knowing Imani had someone familiar with her. 

Shoto took a seat at the end of his futon. “Mom and Fuyumi said goodnight to Hawks–Keigo, I mean. I think they went to Mom’s bedroom to talk an hour ago.”

“And the bastard?”

“Don’t know,” Shoto shrugged, “don’t care.”

Natsuo nodded. 

Neither brother spoke for a solid minute.

“Natsuo, I’m sorry we witnessed all of that. We didn’t need to know.” Shoto began.

“It was Dad, it’s always Dad.” He groaned then flopped back on his futon. “Somehow, he makes everything good around us crumble.”

“Is she really pregnant?” Shoto asked, his voice sounding younger than his seventeen years.

Natsuo reached into his back pocket and produced a piece of paper. “Yeah…Imani managed to drop this by the door when she was leaving…It’s a lab report...and it’s positive.”

Shoto nodded. 

Silence came between them again.

“Bro, I’m freaked.” The words rushed out his mouth a beat later, “I love this girl and-and the thought of having child with her–” He covered his face with a free hand. “Shoto, I’ve told Imani things I haven’t even told you.” 

“It’s okay–” His brother started, but Natuo cut him off.

“I told her everything about our messed up family and more. Then, I told her about not wanting to ever have kids. She listened and didn’t judge me…” He groaned, his memory returning, “That was the week, the week we…she was stressed about school…I was stressed about…hell, I don’t know, pick something…and we…” He dared to look his younger brother in the eye, “Shoto, I wasn’t just hooking up with some girl, I made love to her. I was her first and I haven't been with a lot of people myself…she is different…she makes me feel different and to think it’s all gone to Hell…why did he even come home? The whole evening was fine without him.”

Shoto just nodded.  

“I would marry Imani and spend my life with her. That’s how strong I feel about her. It’s not the sex talking. I really feel that way.” He sniffled as if he wanted to cry, “I can’t lose her.”

Shoto exhaled. “Can you call her?”

“I’m not going to be like him and be forceful. She can call me whenever she wants to talk. I do respect her consent in our relationship, unlike someone else we know.”

“Have you considered that she feels the same way too? Her feelings for you?”

Natsuo gaped at his brother, unsure.

“Natsuo, I think she’s just as much in love with you as you are with her.”  

He groaned again. “I don’t know what to do.”

“I think that is a normal response.”

“I didn’t take her virginity. She wanted to be with me. We actually communicated about intimate stuff like that–but that night wasn't planned.”

“I believe you.”

“Either way, I’m a dog.”

“Why would you say that?”

“Maybe I am like him–” Natsuo lamented. 

Shoto punched his right hand into his opened left palm. “Natsuo, you are your own person and I know you’ve been nothing but good to Imani. Even I saw how well you treated her. You weren’t faking that to make you two look good." His brother shook his head, "I also understand your reluctance to have her meet us.”

“It wasn’t you I didn’t want her to meet.” 

“I–thanks for telling me that."

Natsuo ran a hand through his unruly snow-white hair. “By the way, he was a real ass talking about Momo like that. Would have gotten a better response if he offered to buy you a box of Lifestyles."

Shoto gave him a sour look.

"Really, I'm sorry for teasing you, little bro.”

"Don't sweat it," Shoto’s cheeks were fire truck red as he rubbed the back of his neck. "The kiss on the cheek was…a lot…"

“Shoto, you like her. No one missed that.”

“Guess I'm that transparent.”

“You also were a gentleman and I know you respect her. You aren’t Enji Todoroki either. I can see why she likes you.”

Shoto seemed to relax at that thought. 

Bitter laughter flowed from Natsuo, "To think we could have been like normal brothers and talked about girls."

"You're…not the only one in the room whose had to relearn a lot, including sensitive stuff like–"

"Sex?"

"Y-yeah." The bright blush returned to the youngest Todoroki's face. 

"Can I ask you something?" Natsuo's curiosity woke up.

"Yeah?"

"How long have you two been open about your feelings? The romantic, non-friend ones."

"Momo confessed to me off of a dare not too long ago. I invited her over in hopes of figuring out a way to tell her it was mutual." Shoto sighed. "Dad's behavior forced it out."

"Need me to get you a box of Lifestyles?"

Shoto looked at him as if he would flame him with his left side. 

"I'm sorry, I'm sorry! You left yourself wide open for that one." Even in this moment, Natsuo found a reason to tease. Then, Natsuo spoke to him in a serious tone. "All jokes aside, little bro, talk to her. I don't care how much you blush, be sure you two are on the same page. And don't assume what you won't do. Imani came over to my apartment that night to just 'study.'" Reminders of that night popped off in his mind, "We studied something alright–"

"I fear another innuendo is buried in your next set of words." Shoto deadpanned. 

Natsuo snorted. "I don't need details about you lovebirds, but please be safe whatever you do."

The nervous gesture of rubbing the back of his neck returned as Shoto spoke, "Neither one of us…knows…about doing anything like that…but I–I do want to...just not now…when she's ready…like when she wants to get married…" 

"Oh, you are serious."

"I'm always serious." Shoto frowned.

Natsuo decided to pull his little brother into a hug, his feelings slightly lighter, "Nevermind."

Natsuo's sleep sucked, but the morning shower made up for it a bit. His muscles cried out for relief. Tossing and turning did him in. 

Memories connected to the disaster dinner flooded him. He had already checked his phone for signs of life three times in one hour.

Nothing.

Not a missed call. Not a text message. Not even a courier pigeon. 

Natsuo mused his hair and found a clean tank top with matching boxers after rummaging through one of the drawers in his wardrobe. Fuyumi insisted they keep one set of clean clothes at the house for emergencies. 

Yeah, life had cooked up a good one.

Once he pulled on a clean pair of sweats, Natsuo decided to find the training room after breakfast.

He needed to wail on something. 

Neither Fuyumi or Mom had been in the kitchen so he whipped up a quick bite then passed the living room. 

The old man's shoes were gone.

So were Shoto’s. 

Hero stuff? Or did Shoto go off to hang with friends?

He liked the idea of Shoto being a regular teenager getting nervous about a girl. He liked seeing Fuyumi and Mom giggling as they made dinner. 

A wave of sadness hit him.

He liked Imani lying in his arms, flirting with him about his muscles. ("I like big strong men holding me, Natty.")

"Morning."

Natsuo looked up from the stove. 

Hawks strolled in the kitchen in a muscle shirt and his own sweats. 

Natsuo turned his attention to the eggs so we wouldn't burn them, "Morning–did you sleep here?" Then, he remembered them kissing. "Wait, don't answer that."

"I stayed in the guest room after I went to my place. Your mom–"

"Mom?"

"Yeah, your mom asked me to come back. She figured the situation was so volatile…"

Ever since Mom left the hospital, Dad had taken up residence in another part of the house or slept at the agency. 

Was Mom afraid he would snap?

"Your mom says she was worried for all of you, including Endeavor."

"The number one hero will live." Natsuo scoffed then changed subjects. "While Fuyumi can put me to shame on the stove, are you hungry?"

The two men shared a reflective silence and an American-style breakfast before Natsuo excused himself. "I need to clear my head. I figured I would work the heavy bag in the training room."

"Need a partner? We could spar."

Natsuo rubbed his chin. Beat up his sister's fiancée? Sounds intriguing. "I'm game."

Hawks gave him a sly smile. "See you in twenty minutes."

At the fated time, Hawks met him in the training room with a towel slung over his shoulders and two water bottles.

Both of them stretched. 

"Any rules?" Hawks asked.

Natsuo listed them using his fingers, "No quirks. No illegal moves. No low blows."

"Fair."

For the next hour, they lapsed into steadying degrees of combat. Once they were sure of each other's strengths, a full on spar session commenced. 

Natsuo had to admit he would have lost to his soon-to-be brother-in-law in a fight. Hawks didn't need his feathers. There was power in those hits. 

It ended in a draw then they both collapsed to the mat.

Hawks wiped his face on the towel then tossed him a water bottle. "Congrats, you can take me."

"Maybe years of being pushed around by the old man gave me some fight." Bitter reminders of childhood threatened to ruin the morning. 

Hawks drained his own water bottle before responding. "You don't have to explain."

"Sure you don't want to hear about Shoto getting gut punched at seven or how my mother ended up with three unwanted kids?"

"Look. I respect and follow Endeavor the hero, but I don't condone the actions of Enji the man."

"And yet, the world wants to forgive him. Even now Shoto and my mom give him grace and they took the worst of it. Sure, I got my turn at being beat like a grown man, but once he got his perfect specimen, I was an afterthought."

Hawks's chest heaved up and down. "I wanted to come back last night. Yumi asked your mom to ask me if I could come back."

"You wanted to break up any fights." Natsuo frowned.

"Amongst other things."

Natsuo narrowed his eyes. 

"I'm not ashamed about what I feel for her. But, I get it, seeing your sister be romantic–"

"Swapping spit. Undressing her with your eyes–"

"I have a pinch of control not to do it here."

Natsuo pinched his nose. That was not the image he wanted. 

"We're messed up, but I don't have a sister complex. Still, that kiss–"

"I did come on too strong," Hawks had it in him to look embarrassed, "But, self-control flipped me off too."

Natsuo remembered the long kiss he and Imani had before the dinner started. 

"Fuyumi told me a lot about your parents' relationship. So yes, I am following her lead. I know deep down, she's terrified."

"Of sex?" Natsuo winced when he guessed it. 

"Falling in love…and that too." Hawks dropped the towel back over his shoulders, "I won't give you any play-by-plays of our time alone." Hawks snorted. "I will continue to show her affection. But, I don't want Yumi thinking she'll earn a slap from me if we don't hug or kiss."

Natsuo gazed off in the distance. "Imani and I didn't even get physical until weeks ago because I was waiting. Then, everything became this perfect storm. Her parents had been giving her grief about going back to the States with them so they could all live together once they retired. Imani blew up at them over the phone then came over to cram for a test at my place…it was a hug that became a kiss that became…I was scared I hurt her since she hadn't been with anyone but me…I was so scared that I wouldn't know when to stop, I stop myself a bunch." Natsuo mused, "I didn't want to stop with her and the minute she asked me to keep going…"

Hawks' sharp breath brought Natsuo back into the present.

"I-I'm..sorry, I said too much."

"Natsuo, you aren't the only one who questioned yourself. My pops wasn't the epitome of a loving husband either. I wasn't wanted by my parents and the Commission raised me."

He turned and looked at the other hero. 

Hawks continued, "Maybe two broken people attracted each other. Maybe Yumi longs for affection and I long to give it."

Natsuo squeezed his eyes shut.

"I don't think you would rape your girlfriend, Natsuo."

His gaze fixed on Hawks. An unnamed fear leaped in his heart.

"The Commission showed me plenty of times they looked the other way, too many cases of other women being hurt." Hawks stared at the mat, "You have had every opportunity to be a monster and you didn't take it."

Natsuo closed his eyes, sucking in air.

"Has she talked to you?"

"No."

A pause.

"I can see you love her."

"So why did she leave?" Natsuo felt his throat constricting. 

"I can't answer that." Hawks stood up and offended a hand out to him.

Natsuo accepted and allowed himself to be pulled to his feet.

"She's scared, Natsuo."

"I'm scared I'm going to lose her."

Hawks slapped him on the shoulder amicably, "Let's see what the ladies are doing." 

Natsuo followed him out of the training room, too lost in his thoughts. 

Two weeks after the fallout, a semblance of normal returned. Natsuo fell back into the flow of classes and avoided the family. 

Everyone from that night dotted messages of concern via text, but no one contacted him further than that.

Any calls from his father were immediately met with a DO NOT DISTURB notification.

Imani still had yet to talk to him.

Burying himself in his studies and exercise pushed back some of the sadness. At night, he forced himself to sleep with herbal tea and exhaustion. 

Any reminders of his girlfriend were packed away from the moment in his closet– a teddy bear, cute pictures, her notebook.

Then a persistent call from Endeavor's secretary cut through his last class of the day. Excusing himself, Natsuo decided to accept the call once he was outside the lecture hall.

Usually, the old man never called him from the agency. 

"Hello?"

"Master Todoroki?"

Why did they call him that? "Hey, Meina."

"Endeavor wanted to schedule a business lunch with you."

Business lunch? "Why?"

"This is in regards to him needing a medical worker as a representative for a meeting–"

"Unless he's dead, don't contact me."

The secretary didn't even sound fazed, "I understand that, but someone with the surname of Jackson reached out to him also."

Jackson? Natsuo gripped his cell. "Any first name?"

"American, they insisted on meeting both you and Endeavor this evening."

Imani?

His heart leaped for a monent.

But why go through his dad?

Too intrigued to say no, Natsuo asked for the details to be texted to him for later.

As much as Natsuo milled over getting fancy, he stuck with a clear collared shirt and black slacks. The classic white shoes were a must.

Whatever this meeting meant he wasn't going to go out his way to be dressy.

Besides, if the old man was going to go all out, then why not piss him off by looking like a college student? 

Natsuo never considered himself a part of the hero world. Endeavor reminded him often he wasn't. 

A pricey hot pot restaurant with a skyscraper in the money part of the city was the destination. Natsuo had to admit the place was classy. Once he made his way to the elevator, it let off to the tenth floor.

His shoes quieted across plush carpet until he reached the restaurant. Natsuo wasn't sure what to do with his sweaty hands, so he shoved them in his pockets.

An all too eager hostess jumped to attention, "Mr. Todoroki, please, we are expecting you."

Figures, it had to be a place his dad frequented, "Can you show me to my table please?"

Right away, he had been swept to a quaint table near a picture window that overlooked the lights of the city. Soft lanterns colored the section of the room as bright colors filled the walls 

Tourists and rich folks would love this. His stomach merely turned.

At the table sat the devil himself–Endeavor–out of hero dress and a couple consisting of a man and a woman with skin tones that reminded him of Imani…

His eyes flew open and he swore a not so kind word left his mouth.

Did his father get a hold of Imani's parents?

The tense air only greeted him.

Natsuo controlled his voice as best as possible, "So, Dad, you decided to tattle on me? Figured I couldn't handle my own problems?" 

A soft voice danced in his ears. "Mr. Todoroki didn't talk to them, I did."

Natsuo spun around to find Imani standing a few feet behind him.

Words abandoned Natsuo.

He stared at her in a kimono-style top and black skirt with ballerina flats. She had her textured hair pulled down so her face could show. Diamond studded earrings complemented her ears as he recognized makeup covering what he guessed was the stress of the last two weeks. It was something she admitted to him weeks into their relationship. 

He prayed he did not cause any more undue stress to her…or the baby.

His tongue finally worked. "Imani… hey…"

She gave him a gentle reply," Hey, Natty."

He let go of the tightness in his chest. She used his pet name, so there was the possibility of a good sign.

A familiar voice got both of their attention, "I apologize and hope I did not miss Natsuo– Imani!"

His mother had appeared behind them, dressed in a blouse with flower designs and blue slacks, her hair pulled into a formal hairstyle.

"Mom?" His mouth dried.

Mom hugged both Imani and him, each one of them seeming to melt into her embrace. No warmth came from the other three people at the table.

"Rei," His father began, then motioned to a spot next to him, "Would you like to sit?"

Rei gave a tired smile to them then went to the other side of the table. Her parents sat on one side, his next to them. 

After Natsuo bowed to the elders of the table, he and Imani sat opposite of them. He wiped his sweaty palms on his slacks.

Was this a firing squad?

"You're Natsuo." Her mother, a black American with short brown hair and dark green eyes, spoke. 

He wasn't sure if that tone was an accusation or matter of fact. "Yes, I am."

"Mr. Todoroki explained how you could help us in the future working with rescue heroes internationally once the chance comes in the future." Her mother looked formal in a knee-length black dress. 

"Course, we are here to discuss another future as well." The deep baritone of her father commanded the room. Natsuo studied the man in his collar shirt, tie and black pants.

Yeah, that man could incapacitate with him a toothpick.

And her mother would finish him off with a drink coaster. 

"Daddy," Imani looked at her father. The warning was there. 

Under the table, Natsuo felt delicate fingers entwine with one of his. Peeking down, he saw her left hand locked with his right. 

His heart raced.

Was the hope to be with her not dead?

His mother cleared her throat, "I think we should let them talk first, everyone."

Natsuo sent his mom the biggest smile and mouthed thanks to her.

Imani squeezed his hand and began talking, "Yes, I am pregnant and yes, I will keep the baby for now. I can also think about adoption if I consider that route."

The four elders exhaled and had varying expressions on their faces. The Jackson couple tensed. His father looked pissed. His mother looked…wishful?

"And yes, I have a plan–at least a somewhat plan. I can finish my degree early or finish while I am on leave. Obviously, taking maternity leave here is better than back in the States. I can see my English students until it's  time to deliver the baby."

"And who will be your support in all of this? We're an ocean away." Her mother demanded. 

Imani squeezed his hand again, "Obviously Natsuo."

"Two college students raising a child?" Her father scoffed.

"Did you two already do that?" Imani challenged her parents.

"Imani, we also both enlisted while your grandmother watched you." Her father protested, "We were forced to make a plan."

"We want better for you." Her mother cried, "That's why we sacrifice for you."

"Has anyone asked us what we wanted?" Natsuo found his voice. 

"I think you've done more than enough–" Mr. Jackson countered.

"Was she not a part of this?" His dad jumped in, "I doubt she conceived like Mother Mary."

As bickering spilled over the table for over a minute, Natsuo slapped the table for order to return. 

Quiet broke out following his noisy gesture. 

"Now that I have your attention–" He spat out, "how about we hear out the two people who made the baby?"

"This isn't the time to be flippant." His father fumed.

"None of you will shut up long enough to even know if we are being flippant," Natsuo gently released Imani's hand and gestured to their elders. "You think we lack intelligence since we lack experience."

"And your intellect got you in this situation?" Mrs. Jackson questioned. 

"No, the condom breaking did." Natsuo folded his arms and stared them down.

"Natsuo," His mother gasped.

"Mom, I think no one here is missing a biology lesson." He scoffed, "and none of you missed history either. No need to pretend we don't know what led to this since we are both college students living on our own. It sounds like her parents were in this situation themselves."

"We were already married."  His mother supplied.

"And we don't want that?" Natsuo asked.

From the corner of his eye, he watched Imani marvel at him.

"Our family had money, providing isn't the issue." Natsuo shrugged. 

"Natsuo, this is exactly what my concern was." His father fired back.

"You're only concern should be if she's feeling generous enough to let you to see the baby."

His father's face turned as red as his flames.

"Imani, you don't need to be tied to Japan." Her father countered. 

"Daddy, I didn’t have a baby to force my way into citizenship." Imani scoffed, "I also didn't get knocked up to trap Natsuo. He never flaunted his family's money and I never asked. Just like we aren't trying to make a quirk kid or any other wild theories anybody has cooked up."

His mother spoke, sadness tinting her tone, "Imani, what do you want from us? All of us?"

"Mrs. Todoroki, I want your trust." Imani looked down at the table. "I want you all to trust we will figure this out. I am not asking you to be overjoyed that the circumstances aren't ideal, just be there for us please."

"You say us, not you." Mrs. Jackson eyed Natsuo warily as she addressed her daughter. 

"I want there to be an us." Natsuo swallowed his pride and turned to Imani, those pretty brown eyes trapping him. "Even if we are just being parents. Give me a chance to at least muddle through this with you."

"I thought you didn't want children–" She bit her lip.

"Maybe I want to change my mind." He admitted.

"A baby isn't a fix." The sadness returned to her voice. 

"I never asked you to fix anything about my life," He grabbed her hands again, "Just like you don't expect me to be your hero." He stood to his feet and pulled Imani to hers. "Can we talk, you and I?"

"I want to," She whispered. 

"Good," Natsuo addressed the elders, "We're out."

He didn't heed the noise of their protests, his heart only elated at Imani letting him back in.

The glow of a cell phone screen interrupted Natsuo's peaceful slumber. Rain came down outside of his apartment window as lighting reflected the gray night.

With a grumble, he slapped his hand on his nightstand for the offending object.

After opening the lock screen, he found a flood of messages. Mom. The old man. Fuyumi. Hawks of all people. Shoto. Random friends. The real estate agent.

He mentally sorted who to text first and who to continue to ignore, then began his flurry of replies. 

Mom, I love you and I'm sorry. It's not you I needed a break from.

Old Man: I'm not dead. And yes, the credit card bill is right.

Best Sis: When's the wedding? We gotta do dinner again. Without the spit swapping.

Little Bro: I'm not upset with you. The old man and her parents were piling on. We'll get together soon. 

BirdMan: Yeah, see you when I see Yumi (ooh).

Something stirred next to him on the futon, "Go back to sleep, Imani."

Imani shifted so her back was pressed to him, her hair tickling his shoulder, "I don't wanna go to school…"

Natsuo grinned and turned to rest on his side. "Then, get some rest, little girl."

Imani snuggled into him more like she wanted him to be the sheet covering them instead of the one covering their bare skin. 

He wrapped her in his arms then ran his thumb across her ring finger.

Two weeks ago, he and Imani left the hot pot place with their parents inside to go back to his place and talk. Really talk , fight and cry as they hashed out what life would look like now with a baby between them.

Within those same weeks, Imani Jackson became Imani Todoroki following a trip to the municipal office to file paperwork stating the change. 

The silver wedding band was a minimal design, but did its job to proclaim that their union wasn't a mistake. He owed two of their mutual friends thanks for serving as witnesses. He hoped cold hard cash was thanks enough. 

Brushing his hand against her cheek, Natsuo studied the silver men's band on his ring finger.

The old man would just need to foot the bill for their jewelry. 

If the living cost got crazy because he cut them off, then… well… Natsuo would deal with that bridge if they crossed it. He could do his own consulting work. For sure not depending on the old man had always been the goal since high school. 

"I'm going to talk to your parents next week," He whispered into her ear. "If they don't take me out first for eloping with you."

"Okay," The sleepy reply seeped out. 

"I have a plan."

"Good job," She yawned like a cat.

"I love you," He murmured as he kissed her forehead, "And I love the baby too."

"Tell me in the morning, big softy…" were her final words as she began to snore lightly. 

He laughed as he held her during her sleep, remembering the new week would bring a flurry of doctor appointments, house shopping, exams and a possible do over family dinner.

This time, he wouldn't stay away from the family as long.

They would have to get used to his new family or get used to his continued silence.

Staring out of his apartment window, he allowed his thoughts to wander as the rain came down.

Choosing Imani had meant choosing something for himself.

Choosing to do better his way meant starting down a scary, but new path.