Echoes of Past Ties (Todobaku Fanfiction)

13. Into the unknown

The night enveloped the world in a cold, quiet embrace as Shoto trailed Bakugou's bike on the desolate roads, away from the city. The rhythmic hum of bike engines was the only sound breaking the eerie silence. Shoto kept a fair distance, ensuring he wasn't detected while also staying close enough to keep Bakugou in sight.

Suddenly, Bakugou veered off the main road, leading Shoto down a winding pathway surrounded by towering trees. When Bakugou's bike finally came to a stop, Shoto parked a safe distance away, hiding behind thick foliage.

Breathing deeply to calm his racing heart, Shoto peeked through the bushes. Before him stood an old mansion, more akin to a castle, hidden away in the heart of the forest. The sprawling structure, though clearly aged, had a certain grandeur to it. Flickering lights from within suggested it was inhabited.

Realizing that Bakugou's necklace was left behind and the tracking device was useless for eavesdropping, Shoto quickly dialed Kirishima, informing him of the location and urging him to come. With backup on its way, Shoto began to approach the mansion, moving silently and sticking to the shadows.

As Shoto stepped into the dimly lit house, he was immediately aware of the heightened tension in the air. It felt like entering a wolf's den, and he was the prey. He hadn't gone far when he suddenly found himself surrounded by a group of rough-looking men, none of whom were Bakugou.

Their menacing gazes bore into him. "How the hell did you find our hiding spot?" one of them demanded, stepping forward aggressively.

Before Shoto could formulate an answer, a barrage of fists came at him. Reflexively, he brought his arms up, guarding his face and body while trying to find an opening to counterattack. But every time he tried, another blow landed. The situation looked bleak.

Suddenly, a thick, white smoke filled the room. It was so dense that it stung Shoto's eyes, and he could hardly breathe. Panicking, he tried to back away from the onslaught, but someone grabbed his hand, tugging him urgently.

"Who are you?" Shoto choked out, trying to see through the blinding smoke.

"Shut up, idiot," a familiar voice growled. Relief washed over Shoto as he recognized Bakugou's voice.

But the sense of relief was short-lived. Instead of leading him to safety, Bakugou pulled him into a small cupboard. They squeezed inside, the tight space forcing them into an awkward embrace. 

Shoto turned to Bakugou, their faces inches apart in the cramped space. "Why here? Why not outside?"

Bakugou's eyes darted around as he whispered back, "They expect us to run. This is the last place they'll look. Trust me."

They heard frantic voices outside. "Don't let them escape! Search the outside!" someone commanded.

Inside the cramped space, the two of them sat silently, trying to control their breathing. Shoto's heart raced, not just from the adrenaline but also from being this close to Bakugou after such a long time.