Yes, Maybe, No | BakuDeku ✔

chapter-14

On the day of the dance, Katsuki was wandering the city streets, his thoughts a whirlwind of emotions. The air was crisp, and the city lights glowed softly on the sidewalks as he walked. He had planned to attend the dance with Kaminari, but you know the story. 

As he strolled along, Katsuki couldn't help but feel lonely. The anticipation of the dance had once filled him with excitement, but now, the idea of attending without Kaminari felt daunting. He questioned his decision to consider going, his heart heavy with memories of the past and uncertainties about the future.

He passed a small park and decided to sit on a bench, his fingers gripping the edge as he stared into the night. The gentle rustling of leaves and the distant sounds of the city provided a soothing backdrop to his thoughts. Katsuki knew he needed a moment of respite to gather his emotions and find a way to navigate the complex maze of his feelings.

As he sat there, he began to reflect on the journey he had embarked upon. The healing process with Kaminari had been slow and filled with both progress and setbacks. While he admired Kaminari's efforts to change, Katsuki still grappled with the fear of being hurt again. He knew attending the dance with Kaminari could mark a turning point or lead to further confusion.

Katsuki looked at the stars and scoffed. "Fuck this," 

With a newfound "resolve," Katsuki decided he wouldn't duel on the past. The complications and uncertainties surrounding his relationship with Kaminari left him feeling emotionally drained, and he knew he needed some time for himself. As he left the park, he felt relief and sadness, knowing he was making the right decision for his well-being.

Walking through the city streets, he thought of finding solace in one of his favorite comfort foods. The WOS burger joint came to mind—a place he had frequented with friends many times. The idea of indulging in some late-night cravings seemed like the perfect way to unwind and distract himself from the events of the evening.

Katsuki's steps quickened as he made his way to the burger joint. The familiar neon sign cast a warm glow over the entrance, and the savory aroma of burgers and fries welcomed him as he walked through the door. The atmosphere inside was cozy and inviting, with a few patrons enjoying their meals.

Katsuki turned toward the familiar voice and saw Izuku standing at the counter of the WOS Burger joint. A small smile tugged at the corners of his lips as he approached.

"Are you prepared?" A male voice calls out to Bakugou, who's engrossed in his phone. Katsuki raises his head and walks over to the green-haired boy to place an order. "Hello, and welcome to WOS Burgers. What can I assist you with today?" he greets Katsuki with a radiant smile that dazzles and slightly vexes him.

"Um, I'll go with number six in a large combo, including three chocolate chip cookies," Katsuki responds. "Oh, and add a vanilla milkshake," he finalizes. The boy in front of him grins as he punches in the order.

"Anything else?" The boy inquires. His green curls obscure one of his eyes while his emerald gaze peeks through the locks—a blend of colors Katsuki hasn't encountered before.

"No... Izuku? Is that your name?" Katsuki queries, leaning over the counter to scrutinize the name tag.

"Yes, that's me!" Izuku replies with a playful smile. "Paying with cash or card?"

"Card," Katsuki confirms, sliding his card into the machine and awaiting the appearance of the green check mark.

"Alright, here's your order number and your soda cup. Your food will be out soon," Izuku informs with another grin.

Katsuki doesn't engage further, offering a nod before collecting his belongings and heading to the soda fountain to fill his cup with Diet Coke. He settles at a table by the window, sipping his soda while observing the sky's gradual shift to gray and the gentle patter of rain against the glass.

As time passes, the establishment gradually empties. Katsuki keeps checking his phone for the time, growing increasingly anxious with each passing minute. The dance is in two hours, and he's still without a date.

"Excuse me?" Izuku approaches Katsuki. He looks up from his phone and meets the boy's gaze. "We'll be closing in five minutes," Izuku mentions, accompanied by another smile.

Katsuki acknowledges the information but hesitates to leave the place for reasons he can't pinpoint. He watches Izuku sweep the floor while some of his colleagues depart. Katsuki finds it curious why the youngest employee has to stick around for the closing tasks.

"Hey, Izuku," Katsuki calls out to him. Izuku turns and nods as Katsuki approaches. "What are your plans for later tonight?"

"Um, not much. Probably heading home to read a book," Izuku replies. Katsuki smirks stands up, discards his trash, and approaches the green-haired boy.

"How about joining me at the Valentine's-themed dance tonight?" Katsuki proposes.

"Huh?" Izuku responds, clearly taken aback.

"Look, it's not a big fucking deal," Katsuki mutters, suddenly feeling awkward. "I just thought it'd be better than going alone."

Izuku blinks, seemingly surprised by the unexpected invitation. "Well, I've never been to a dance before," he admits, scratching his head. "But I guess it could be interesting."

Katsuki's lips twitch into a faint smile. "Great. I'll pick you up around nine."

"Wait, you want to pick me up?" Izuku raises an eyebrow, amusement dancing in his eyes. "I don't think that such a good idea..."

Katsuki's could sense an intense fear coming from Izuku, as if he was scared of going to the dance or, better yet...anywhere. He gave him the benefit of the doubt after remembering seeing that one text message the first time they met. 

"Give me your phone," Katsuki retorts, determined to maintain his bravado.

Izuku stares at him, confused. "Why do you want my phone?"

Katsuki walked toward him and demanded his phone, which Izuku obliged. He dials his phone number before pulling out his phone as it rings. He then declines the phone call and saves Izuku's phone number. "Send me your address; I'll be by around nine," 

Izuku watched as Katsuki walked away, his heart racing. He held onto his phone, feeling emotions swirling within him. He hadn't expected this turn of events, and the idea of going to a dance with Katsuki, someone he had a complicated history with, both thrilled and unnerved him.

"Izuku, let's go home," Tamaki said as he pulled him out of thought. For a moment, Izuku had forgotten he was at work and realized what he was wearing when Katsuki asked him to the dance: wearing a dirty apron with dirty clothes underneath. 

"Coming!" Izuku yelled back.