Long Time Coming

Around My Neck

"Hey babe."

Warm lips pressed against his cheek, chest bumping against the back of his bun as slender, muscular arms draped over his shoulders. The scent of perfume and cologne, both floral, intermingled around him not unpleasantly. It was still awkward living with Mina and Jirou but they were the only ones who had taken on jobs close to Fatgums place.

"You sure you wanna stay here?" He had asked, looking at the official resume and application, going over the other offers as well. "Not that I'm complaining." He amended. "We've never been this popular and that's largely thanks to you but... you could do better." His eyes narrowed as he perused the list. "I mean... Best Jeanist, Captain Celebrity... Hell even Fourth Kind asked for you back."

Kirishima smiled, "Yeah but I'm established here. I'd like to be a partner one day and I'm closer to that here than I would be with those other guys. Besides," He motioned to his costume, "I've seen what Best Jeanist expects from his employees."

They both chuckled over that as Fatgum signed the formal paperwork, pushing the forms back over the desk.

"We're glad to have you, Sturdy Hero Red Riot. I know you'll do us proud." Fatgum rose as Kirishima did, tears in both their eyes, hand extended. "I look forward to the years ahead and watching you grow as a pro hero."

"Teach me well!" Kirishima grasped his hand, bowing deeply.

"Where's the guy from-" Kirishima was interrupted by the plodding of heavy feet.

"Hey gorgeous~☆"

"Aoyama?!" Kirishima did all he could to keep from screeching. "So which one of you was squealing last night then?"

The pink girl turned a darker shade, smacking the back of his head, "Don't ruin my good mood, Dear. Or I'll melt your hair off."

"Yeah, yeah." He turned on the couch, arms crossed over the back, "How's graduated life treating you, Aoyama?"

"Oh, mon ami~☆" He sighed, biting into an apple. "It's been wonderful. Mount Lady has been the best to work for! Si amusant and tres chic!"

"Right. And you and Mina...?" He let the question hang in the air.

"It's something that's been in the works for a few years." Mina buried her face in her hands as Aoyama winked at her, flashing a brilliant grin. "Oh God."

"I've got to dash, mon cher." His voice dipped, his arm wrapped around her midsection. "I'll text you later~☆" He kissed the joint of her neck and shoulder.

Kirishima watched, amused, as goosebumps flooded her skin and she let out a high pitched squeak. He watched, biting his tongue, until Aoyama had left their apartment.

"So," she sat on the other side of the couch, curling around her coffee, "you're the squealer." His brow rose as his gaze slid sideways.

She huffed, taking a sip. "I didn't expect-" She closed her eyes taking another drink. "I mean-"

Kirishima chuckled, "That good, huh?"

"Better." She shook her head. "I never thought I could... I-I used to think I was broken. And he..."

"I mean, that's amazing. Good for you guys."

"Oh." She frowned. "Oh, Eiji, I'm sorry. Here I am bragging and you're still a vir-"

"Mina!" Kirishima squeezed his eyes closed. "Mina, no ."

He hated this part. No one understood why the sexy, available, desirable Red Riot wouldn't have a quick tryst with some groupie. Like his V-Card was some shameful burden to cast off before he was caught with it.