Noctem

new apartment

As she stepped into the streets, the bustling life of the city engulfed her. People rushed past, heroes and civilians alike, each with their unique stories. Y/N couldn't help but feel a sense of exhilaration and nervousness. Today marked a new beginning, a chance to carve out her own identity.

She made her way to a local market known for its character and quirky shops. The vibrancy of the place echoed the adventurous spirit she adored. As she wandered through aisles filled with colorful furniture, plants, and art pieces, she lost herself in daydreams of how she could transform her apartment into a reflection of who she was now-Noctem.

After a couple of decorative pillows and a funky lamp, Y/N paused by a vintage record player. The nostalgic hum of music drew her attention, and she was about to touch it when a voice interrupted her thoughts.

"Well, if it isn't the lost kitten of this morning herself!" The familiar voice ignited a sense of recognition. She turned to find Bakugo standing at the entrance, his expression a mix of surprise and curiosity.

"Bakugo!" Y/N exclaimed, a smile spreading across her face. "What are you doing here, are you stalking me?"

"Just picking up a few things for my place," he replied, crossing his arms and leaning against the doorframe casually. "Not that I owe you an explanation. But it looks like you're settling in?"

"Sort of. Just trying to make this place feel more like home," she said, gesturing toward her bags. "Furniture shopping isn't as easy as it sounds."

Bakugo stepped closer, his interest piqued. "What do you need? I could help. If you're lucky, I might even carry it for you," he smirked, his trademark arrogance shining through.

"Help? You? I didn't know you were a home improvement expert," Y/N teased playfully, her confidence growing. Bakugo huffed, but a small smile tugged on his lips, and she noticed a flicker of warmth in his usually fierce demeanor.

"Let's just say I know my way around a superstore," he replied, waving her off. As they ventured through the shop together, the atmosphere shifted from friendly banter to a deeper connection. They shared stories about their own experiences of moving, navigating responsibilities, and the challenges of becoming heroes.

In one corner, Y/N found an old canvas painting of a sunset, hues of orange and deep purple dance across it. "This-this would make a perfect backdrop for my place," she mused.

Bakugo studied it, a contemplative look crossing his face. "It matches you. Bright but with depth. Just like your powers," he commented, surprising Y/N with how perceptive he was.

"Thanks. I guess I still have a long way to go in discovering who I really am, though," she admitted, glancing at him knowingly.

"You've got spirit and guts," Bakugo asserted, his tone serious. "That's what being a hero is all about."

Feeling more connected, they navigated through the store, piling up furniture pieces and quirky decorations in their cart. As they approached the checkout, Y/N let out a relieved sigh, feeling less alone in this new chapter.

"Guess this is the start of my new life," she said, glancing at Bakugo with a mixture of excitement and uncertainty.

"Just make sure you don't get too comfortable. You might miss the thrill of the explosions," he teased, his eyes sparkling with mischief.

They both laughed, and in that moment, they knew they had forged a bond that transcended their backgrounds. No longer simply an underground hero and a surface-level dynamo, they were two allies destined to navigate their paths together.