Noctem

Bonding

After a long day of patrolling and bonding, Y/N finally invited Shoto and Bakugo over for a quiet evening. They had spent hours playing games and sharing laughter, the comfortable atmosphere making it feel like home.

As the evening wore on, the trio found themselves lounging in the living room. Y/N sat between them on the couch, feeling a mix of excitement and nervous energy. She glanced over at Shoto, who was engrossed in a funny story Bakugo was sharing about one of his explosive training mishaps.

"Seriously, I thought I was going to earn a spot on the wall of shame for that," Bakugo laughed, the tension of the day fading.

"It definitely would have made for a great story," Shoto said, a small smile on his face. "But it shows you're growing—finally learning control."

"Control? I was just being awesome!" Bakugo shot back, but there was a hint of laughter in his voice, clearly enjoying the lighthearted camaraderie.

Y/N watched them, feeling a surge of warmth. They were both strong, skilled, and fiercely protective of each other. This is a great group of friends, she thought, her heart swelling.

As they relaxed, the playful banter gradually gave way to something more intimate. Bakugo leaned closer to Y/N, attempting to maintain his usual nonchalant demeanor, but his eyes flickered with something deeper. "You know, shadow girl, you can't go thinking you've got this all figured out. You've thrown us a curveball by wanting to work together."

"And I appreciate that trust," Y/N replied, feeling the electricity in the air. "But you're both more than just competition for each other."

Shoto shifted slightly in his seat, feeling the weight of unspoken words hanging in the air. "You've really changed things for us. It's confusing, but... good confusing."

Feeling bolder, Y/N decided to share her thoughts. "I think we all naturally found a connection, and it's beautiful—in its own way."

Bakugo watched her, the flicker of vulnerability betraying his usual bravado. "You think you're ready for that, Noctem?"

"Ready for what?" she asked, tilting her head curiously.

"For what it means to be connected to us," Bakugo replied, his words surprisingly sincere. "It's not always easy."

Y/N met his gaze, a mixture of emotions swirling within her. "I'm here because I want to be. I feel something genuine."

The atmosphere shifted as a comfortable tension crept in, and before either of them could overthink, Bakugo leaned forward slightly. "You're not afraid to push boundaries, and I respect that."

As their eyes locked, the silent connection pulsed between them. Y/N felt her heart racing, aware of the moment stretching into something deeper. Shoto moved a touch closer as well, curiosity gleaming in his eyes, sensing the change in dynamic.

"Y/N..." Shoto began, his voice soft but steady. "What if we didn't just consider this based on friendship, but something more?"

Y/N's breath caught in her throat, the acknowledgement of mutual feelings swirling in the air. Feeling emboldened, she leaned in closer. "I'd like that."

Bakugo watched the exchange intently. With a sudden rush of courage, he leaned in too, taking Y/N's hand. "We can figure this out together, but I'd rather set the mood a bit better."

Before Y/N could respond, Bakugo surged forward and kissed her—a bold, unexpected move that sent shockwaves through the room. Her eyes widened in surprise but softened as she felt herself melting into the moment.