Who have you become in the weight of all that's happened here?

Chapter 3: But don't let them ruin our beautiful rhythms

The usually welcoming building was almost ominous now. What he once saw as his second home made his shoulders tense. He stood at the front door, hand hovering over the doorbell. He knew he needed to talk it out with Deku, but he didn't need Deku shrinking away even more if he confronted him.

After a long moment, he decided 'fuck it' and pressed the doorbell.

The door opened, and Katsuki felt his breath hitch when he caught a glimpse of green hair. He wasn't sure if he was relieved or disappointed when he realised it was Auntie Inko. "Katsuki? Are you here to see Izuku? Sorry, but he's out on his jog right now. Do you want to wait until he gets back?"

"Yeah, sure."

He made himself comfortable on the living room couch. He didn't know whether he anticipated Deku's return or dreaded it.

"Mitsuki told me you got a quirk," Auntie said, "Congratulations."

"...thanks," he replied.

"It's been a while since you stopped by," she commented, "How's U.A going for you? Are you and Izuku fitting in? He mentioned a Shinsou, but whenever I tried bringing you up, he'd dodge the topic."

Well shit. What was he supposed to say? 'Oh, your son is mad at me because I got a quirk and has been actively avoiding me'?

His saving grace was the sound of the door opening. Katsuki gaze immediately landed on Deku. He was all covered in his sweat, and his hair was wet, drooping down a little. He was wearing a dark green tank top and shorts, giving Katsuki a clear view of his abs and thighs. Deku was practically glowing with the way the setting sun shone from behind his back. Katsuki felt his heart stop in his chest.

Viridian green eyes met scarlet red ones.

"Kacchan? What are you doing here?" The nickname was back. Was it because there wasn't anyone around? Or was he just calling him that because Auntie was here?

"Why else would I be here, dumbass?"

"Are you staying for dinner?" Auntie asked.

"Yes-" "No-" the two of them answered at the same time. Katsuki shot Deku a glare, but Deku was probably used to it and wasn't affected, "He probably has his own diet to follow. Eating with us will just ruin it."

Smartass.

"Oh, I see," Auntie smiled, "You boys are really going all out for UA, huh?"

"Of course," Deku said, locking the door, "I'll go shower now-"

"You're going to get sick if you take a bath so quick all sweaty like that," Katsuki snapped, "Fucking rest first."

"I'll be fi-"

"He's right, Izuku. Why don't you take a break first?" Auntie chimed in, disappearing into the kitchen.

Deku sighed, before sitting on the chair across Katsuki. "You still haven't told me why you're here."

"Can't check on my best friend after he ran all the way home?"

"You could've just texted."

"You would've just left me on read again."

Deku opened his mouth to protest, only to close it. Idiot probably knew Katsuki was right.

...

"Look, I'm-" Katsuki started.

"I'm sorry," Deku said before he could finish, "I know I shouldn't be avoiding you. But I just don't want to mess anything up for you." Katsuki was like a deer caught in headlights. What? Why was the nerd apologising to him?